Our Place Magazine Issue 52

Jun / Jul 24

Proud to Be Māori: What Matariki Means to Me

Healing our Whenua

Cherie Metcalfe’s Artisanal Adventures

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Moving Towards a New Era of Art and Experience

Tauranga Art Gallery’s POP UP Gallery and Learning Centre on Devonport Road has just closed in anticipation of the main Gallery reopening in 2025. We asked Gallery Director Sonya Korohina some questions about what’s ahead.

If the POP UP is closed, are you all going on holiday?

I wish! My hairdresser asked me the same question. I said to her if you were to close the salon for a month, what would you do? She replied “that would be amazing! We would do staff training, review our products, customer service and systems, and we would freshen up the interior of the salon.”

That’s exactly what the Gallery is doing. Our focus for the first time in 16 years will not be on our public facing services, instead we will be reviewing and working on how we can offer our community and visitors an exceptional art gallery experience. Our vision for when we reopen is that you could spend a couple of hours hanging out at the gallery, seeing the exhibitions, doing activities, shopping and enjoying kai at the new café.

What’s going on with your website?

We recently partnered with local web developers CreativeQ and designer Hannah Wynn to dive into a much-needed website upgrade that will provide an all-round freshen up of our visitor experience. The new website is scheduled to launch towards the end of 2024.

Tell us more about your reopening exhibitions

We are so excited to be working with artists Darcy Nicholas (Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Te Āti Awa), Maraea Timutimu (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāi Tūhoe) and Kereama Taepa (Te Arawa, Te Āti Awa) and we will be making a full programme announcement later in the year.

For now, I can say the reopening programme is an abundant collection of exhibitions by artists from across Aotearoa and Australia infused with complementary and sometimes surprising interconnections including projects that celebrate new technologies, senior artists, object makers and artist collaborations. The gallery will hum with playfulness and joy.

What’s going on with the building redevelopment?

The hoardings are up, and work is underway. We will be sharing progress updates through our social media channels and newsletter. We look forward to welcoming everyone back early–mid 2025!

How can OPM readers get involved?

Yes please! Be a catalyst for art and join our patrons group that enables significant art projects from $600 annually or $50 a month. The first patrons project will be Whakairo, created by Kereama Taepa especially for the ten-metre-high Atrium space. This augmented reality experience will be like no other.

To stay up to date with Tauranga Art Gallery updates, follow us on social media or sign up to our fortnightly newsletter at artgallery.org.nz

products made from innovative, mindful materials. withsmall.co.nz

Founders Rachelle & Christopher Du y

Creative director Christopher Du y

Editor Zoe Hunter zoe@ourplacemagazine.co.nz

Social manager Millie Guest social@ourplacemagazine.co.nz

Advertising enquiries

Rachelle Du y 021 032 7873 rachelle@ourplacemagazine.co.nz

Contributors

Zoe Hunter, Holly McVicar, Cherie Metcalfe, Christopher Du y, Katherine Whittaker, Rebecca Lee

Photographers Naera Ohia, ilk, Adrienne Pitts

Pick up your copy from The Little Big Markets, plus at selected cafes, restaurants, shops and businesses.

Want to receive regular copies of Our Place for your business to distribute? Email rachelle@ourplacemagazine.co.nz

To tell us about anything happening in your area right now, email zoe@ourplacemagazine.co.nz

Cover & contents

Cover photography: Pā Ropata in his oasis of native bush he sourced from seed, and has nurtured ever since, by Adrienne Pitts (page 52). Contents photography: Māori artist Kereama Taepa by Naera Ohia (page 70). Follow us @ourplacemagazine ourplacemagazine.co.nz

As temperatures start to dip for the arrival of winter, our latest issue is teeming with tales to warm your heart and mind.

Let us remind you of the wonderful city we live in, as we speak with some of our community leaders and creatives about what it is that helps to foster a sense of pride in our place (23). In our Kōrero series, come with us as we meet rongoā Māori expert Pā Ropata who - after a lifetime of learning - shares how he and a team of kaitiaki are helping to restore the mauri to the whenua (52). Meanwhile, we find out what Matariki means to award-winning artist Kereama Taepa and why he is proud to be Māori (70), and how Ineke Milner is fighting for the falcons (90).

In our foodie feature, join Cherie Metcalfe, Pepper & Me’s founder and renowned chef, on a tasty adventure through a new garden-to-glass gin experience and how a local bread business baked its success (37). Plus, Holly McVicar shares recipes straight from the hearth, including a beetroot crostini, a golden spiced crusted cauliflower, and irresistible apple cinnamon scrolls (62).

As we explore historic imagery and medicinal properties of Aotearoa’s native plants in our photo essay (76), we invite you to reconnect with the wisdom of the past, and embrace the responsibility of preserving our natural heritage.

Here’s to this issue being a source of creativity, discovery, and championing our people and our place.

Warm regards,

The Our Place team

What’s Up

Got a sweet tooth?

Unleash your creativity

Announcing the highly anticipated return of The Thrift Shop Ball! Brought to you by Rozella Presents and Mamamanagementnz, this event is poised to be the standout of the year. Unleash your creativity and fashion a striking ensemble from your personal collection and thrift shop finds. Featuring top-tier live performances and pulsating dance rhythms, this is no ordinary affair. Enjoy live performances and dance music from Chiccoreli & Tali, Kool With A K, MSJOS, Dolly Velvet-Riot, and more, plus a creative installation from the Pre Loved Project and the Thrift Shop fashion show. Don’t hesitate - secure your tickets now for an unforgettable experience at The Thrift Shop Ball! Tickets are up now!

→ Where: Totara St, 11 Totara St, Mount Maunganui When: August 10, doors open 7.30pm. R18.

Tickets on sale at rozellapresents.co.nz

Attention all dessert-lovers! Your favourite dessert bar has something sweet to share.

But First Dessert’s new winter menu is here, featuring a highly-requested Tiramisu. Using local coffee brand Excelso, this dessert is a must-try this winter for anyone who loves coffee and pudding! But First Dessert is the ultimate dessert experience for those who have a sweet tooth. Enjoy a decadent selection of desserts and sweet treats, all carefully crafted by their talented kitchen team right here at their dessert bar. Their location is perfect for special celebrations such as birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers, family gatherings or just catching up with friends!

→ butfirstdessertnz

Light it up!

Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne returns for the third time to dazzle and bring light to winter nights on July 26 to August 4. Discover and delight at illuminated art installations and projections, created by local and nationally-renown artists. Featuring this year is internationally acclaimed local artist Sarah Hudson (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Pūkeko, and Ngai Tūhoe), part of the Mataaho Collective of four female Māori artists who won one of the world’s most soughtafter art prizes - the Golden Lion for Best Artist at the Venice Biennale International Exhibition.

The artists light trail takes you through the picturesque Whakatāne town centre, taking in historic landmarks lit-up for the festival. The festival begins, July 26, with the spectacular opening ceremony, including live performances alongside a food truck village and pop-up bar. The Lights On Parade, features costumes of light, live music, street entertainers and more. Don’t miss out on this spectacular celebration of community, light and art.

→ lightupwhakatane.com

Cheers to fine wine

What’s Up

On Friday, July 26, Blabla Events is hosting the next ‘Cellar’ - an immersive experience showcasing New Zealand’s finest, most unique boutique winemakers. Join us for an intimate evening with two remarkable, native to Aotearoa winemakers: Barry Riwai of Alpha Domus Wines and Jannine Richards of Huntress Wines. They will share their winemaking journeys and present eight tastings of their exceptional wines. These will be paired with carefully curated small plates crafted by the head chef of St Amand, the newest event venue on Tauranga’s The Strand, operated by the Kitchen Takeover team. Accompanied by live jazz throughout the evening, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with these award winning winemakers, who have exclusively made the trip to the Bay for one night only.

→ Tickets go on sale June 12 via Eventbrite / blablaevents.com

Thrifted Finds

Looking for that hidden gem, or want to bulk out your winter wardrobe while shopping sustainably? Thrifted Finds, presented by The Little Big Markets, is your go-to destination for vintage shopping and thrifting. The pre-loved and vintage market returns to Mount Maunganui’s Coronation Park on Sunday, July 21, from 9am to 2pm. There will be a DJ, plenty of vintage and pre-loved clothes stalls, street food, rack sales, and more. So, get your friends together for an epic day of thrifting! You never know what treasures you might find.

→ Where: Coronation Park. When: July 21.

Meow!

Since its world premiere, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS has been presented in more than 30 countries, translated into 15 languages, and seen by more than 73 million people worldwide. This June, Tauranga’s Stage Right Theatre Trust brings the record-breaking, award-winning musical to the Baycourt stage for a limited season. Adapted from TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, and brought to life by a very talented cast of 40 and a 16-piece orchestra, this spectacular musical comes together in a sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse, and has now taken on a new life for a new generation. With a superb score by Andrew Lloyd Webber, breathtaking choreography, and stunning costumes, Stage Right’s CATS is a magical musical like no other!

→ Where: Baycourt Addison Theatre. When: June 15-22. Tickets available at eventfinda.co.nz

The Little Big Markets

Words by Zoe Hunter

Meet some of the local Saturday stallholders with awesome offerings from natural skincare and original artworks to sustainable swimwear and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Photography by ilk

Art direction by Millie Guest

Susy + Lily

Josefina Serrao has lived in beachside towns around the globe for almost 10 years and is “obsessed” with swimsuits. So she created her own swimwear styles that not only look good, but feel good too.

Founded in Mount Maunganui, Susy and Lily celebrates diversity and strives to be inclusive to all women. But Susy and Lily is not just about swimwear.

Josefina’s designs are timeless with a deep commitment to sustainability. With every piece she creates, she is dedicated to minimising our environmental footprint while maximising your style and comfort. And she carefully selects eco-friendly materials that are gentle on the environment and your skin, including post-consumer waste and discarded plastic bottles, compostable hand-tags and organic cotton bags that can be reused as many times as you like. “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. I truly believe that fashion can be ethical.”

Thanks to The Little Big Markets, Josefina says she was able to show her product, meet clients and get to know a lot of other vendors from the community.

“Plus, it is always a lot of fun!”

susyandlily.co.nz susyandlily

Foli Skincare

After falling in love with using clay stones overseas, Frances Lockett wanted to share her new-found love of skincare back home in New Zealand. So, she brought a few sets home as gifts and everyone raved about them. From then on, Frances knew she was onto something good.

Foli’s clay stones are handmade in New Zealand from New Zealand clay.

What’s beautiful about using clay, Frances says, is it is lovely and gentle but still does a great job of removing dead skin and build-up - and prepping your skin for any skincare products.

The clay stones don’t break down, so you have the same set forever.

Frances says she couldn’t think of a better way to launch a small business than at The Little Big Markets.

“I love the whole day. Getting there early and hustling to set up your stand, showing people what Foli is and letting them try the clay stones before they buy is a great way to build trust in the brand.”

What’s next for Foli? Frances is working on developing a new range of face and body oils.

www.foli.co.nz foliskincare

↑ Lily Beardsell’s art is inspired by her morning beach walks, adventures, and house plants.

Lilyivana Art

Lily Beardsell has created art ever since she could hold a paintbrush.

The Tauranga-based mixed media artist creates original artworks on canvas and paper, large scale and small. She also offers commissions to tie in with an individual’s interior styling.

After becoming a mum last year, Lily and her friend - talented dressmaker (Dearest Demi) - decided to share a stall at The Little Big Markets.

The pair set themselves the task of selling their products at the markets.

“I decided to make my first collection of Fine Art Giclee prints and art cards, alongside a selection of playful original creations on A3 paper.

“This summer was my first summer at the markets and I’m already planning for next summer season.”

Each print comes signed by Lily sized to fit perfectly inside store bought frames and will last as long as an original artwork.

“I made these prints with ‘mix and match’ in mind,” Lily says. “They complement each other, and look good both on their own or alongside others. They are designed to fill whatever wall space you have needing a splash of colour.”

Most of Lily’s current artwork is heavily influenced by her morning beach walks, bush

adventures and the plants she fills her home with. “There’s definitely a coastal vibe that runs through all my creations.”

The original A3 artworks on paper she brings to TLBM are mainly playful, mixed media, mindfulness art pieces inspired by coastal living and the bush.

Lily loves showing her products at TLBM because she can have inspiring conversations with other vendors and visitors and has made some awesome connections.

“It’s local - easy for me to get to especially with a baby and there are great locations on offer,” Lily says.

“TLBM is a super-friendly team and there is a huge variety of products and talent on show. Every market is different.”

Lily studied Decorative Arts at University in the United Kingdom before having a few years’ break from creating her own work.

In 2018, her partner bought her an ‘Adventure Journal’ and she began translating some of her sketches and plays from it into larger scale works on canvas. “Then I just carried on creating from there…”

Lily loves the freedom, playfulness, and experimentation of being an artist.

“Creating art makes me happy. I love what I do. Seeing my work in peoples’ homes puts a huge smile on my face.”

lilyivanaart.com lilyivana_creative

↑ Mum of three, Nicole Bath-Singh is the creator of Smashed Strawbs and is a self-confessed “girly-girl”.

Smashed Strawbs

Wanna smash? That is the tagline behind the popular pink brand Smashed Strawbs.

Former primary school teacher and mum of three, Nicole Bath-Singh, launched the whanau-based business last December.

“I was just looking for a hobby,” Nicole says. “We wanted something fun, nothing serious.”

After spotting a chocolate tap on TikTok, Nicole wanted to bring something similar to her hometown Tauranga.

So she ordered a chocolate tap online and started making chocolate-covered strawberries.

Starting with a marketing budget of just $20, and a small chalkboard with their business name written on it, Nicole had to think creatively about how to share her strawberries with the community.

So Nicole and her sister, dressed head-to-toe in pink, tested out the new product at a local beach.

“All people had to do was say: ‘Wanna Smash?’ and they got to try it,” she says.

After a successful outing, Nicole officially launched the business at The Little Big Markets Papamoa Summer Series.

“Six weeks later we got so big we had enough funds to open a food truck.”

So her husband Lovedeep Bath-Singh built a hot pink food truck.

Self-confessed “girly-girls” Nicole and her four

sisters, who help out from time to time, wear all pink.

“We are just Barbie girls at heart. Even my husband wears pink,” she giggles.

Nicole says it is great to be able to work alongside her sisters and her three children Lily-Love, 5, Millie-Love, 3, and Luca, 1, who enjoy the fun, whanaubased atmosphere of the markets.

“We are very whanau based. It is really fun. It doesn’t feel like work.”

Nicole sources her strawberries from her uncle’s strawberry farm in the Waikato and uses Whittaker’s milk chocolate. Extra toppings, including marshmallow, Oreo, Biscoff cookie crumb and white chocolate, are also available for $1. They also do bubble waffles, pancakes, ice cream and a strawberry kebab.

Customers who follow SmashedStrawbs on Instagram, which now has more than 3000 followers, can get a free topping.

Nicole says she never thought her idea, which started out as just a hobby, would grow so popular.

Since attending TLBM last summer, Nicole’s Smashed Strawbs brand has expanded.

She has taken the food truck to markets and events not only in Tauranga, but Whakatane, Rotorua, Taupo, and soon Auckland.

“It has been a great journey. We are grateful for The Little Big Markets for allowing us the opportunity to start our business.”

smashedstrawbs

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A City to Be Proud Of

Story by Zoe Hunter

Tauranga is one of the country’s main centres for business, international trade, culture, fashion, and horticulture. But what is it that helps foster a sense of pride in our place?

Watched over by Mount Maunganui’s iconic maunga, and neighbouring the country’s largest port, is the coastal city of Tauranga.

Home to more than 160,000 people, it is one of New Zealand’s main centres for business, international trade, culture, fashion, and horticulture - and one of the country’s fastest-growing cities.

Hints of some of the city’s inaugural businesses were first reported seen as far back as the 1870s along The Strand and Wharf St. Today, Tauranga’s past and future collide with traces of the city’s historic character still visible alongside new developments and public spaces full of promise.

But what is it that helps foster a sense of pride in our place? Our Place editor Zoe Hunter speaks to some of our city’s business leaders and community creatives about their experiences in the city and aspirations for its future progress.

Tauranga City Council (TCC) city development and partnerships general manager, Gareth Wallis, believes the more we speak positively about the changes happening in our city centre and what it will mean for our community, the more we’ll be able

to tell the story about it being an awesome place to live, work, learn and play.

Describe some positive experiences you have had in our city centre:

You can never go past the National Jazz Festival for an annual event that brings our community together right in the heart of our city centre. On a fine day, to see thousands of people roaming the streets, filling up the bars and restaurants, listening to some awesome local, national and international talent, is pretty cool. It sets the bar for what we hope activation and vibrancy in our city centre will become on a more regular basis in the future.

What are your aspirations for its future progress?

Tauranga is the second fastest growing city in the country and growing rapidly. To meet the demand of this growth, our city centre needs to change and that presents us exciting opportunities as a community. Ultimately, however we do it, my aspiration is that our city centre transforms into a place we’re all proud of.

What do you like about working in our city centre?

I love being a part of the significant change happening in our city centre on a daily basis. It excites me to see transformation happening in real time and have some kind of understanding about the impact we hope it will have for our community.

In terms of our urban environment, what do you believe are the key elements to regenerating our city centre?

We have the opportunity to regenerate our urban environment and create a more liveable, sustainable, and resilient city centre for current residents and visitors to the city, and for future generations. Increasing the amount of green space, improving our urban canopy, investing in sustainable transport infrastructure and services, and showcasing our unique connection with Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour are all ways that we can enhance our city centre’s urban environment and make it better than it is today.

What role does placemaking have in the community and the future of a vibrant city centre?

Placemaking is an essential tool to help us tell the story of our city centre’s transformation.

Programming a wide range of events and activities that speak to how we want our city to look, feel and operate in the future helps ensure we all know where we’re heading, all while bringing vibrancy to the city centre as we’re on a journey of change.

Where do you see the future of our city centre heading?

The future of our city centre is one of excitement, vibrancy, and inspiration. It’s one of wonderful dining, retail and cultural experiences. It’s one of enhanced green spaces and celebrating our city’s connection with Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour. It’s one where we’ve started to tell the stories of where we’ve come from and what’s important to us as a community.

What challenges do you believe the city centre is facing currently, and how do we remedy them for a positive future?

The biggest challenge the city centre faces is changing public perceptions.

For example, people think there aren’t enough car parks in the city centre, but there are more today than there were a year ago, and over 300 more coming later this year.

Last month, neither of our car parking buildings were ever anywhere near full, even at the busiest times of the day/week.

← TCC’s Gareth Wallis. ↑ Tauranga, 1880s, New Zealand, maker unknown. Te Papa (O.009447)

I’ve heard people say that we’re losing businesses from the city centre, but ground floor tenancies are currently 82% occupied and first floor tenancies are currently 87% occupied. Yes, some businesses have left, but others have started up, which combined has meant a largely stable level of occupancy in the city centre over the last 3-4 years.

Tauranga Business Chamber chief executive, Matt Cowley, says ultimately it is about having more people choose to live in the city centre so it becomes a 24-hour destination and not just a 9-to-5 place of work.

Describe some positive experiences you have had in our city centre:

I’ve had many wonderful experiences in Tauranga’s city centre. The vibrant atmosphere, diverse local businesses, and welcoming community make it a joy to explore. From enjoying delicious meals at local eateries to attending networking business events overlooking the harbour.

What are your aspirations for its future progress?

While there is a list of immediate challenges, most people can see the light at the end of the tunnel; we just need to get there. Plenty of private and public

investment is planned over the next several years. My aspiration for the city centre is that all stakeholders can execute on those plans.

What do you like about working in our city?

With 20,000 or so people commuting to work in the city centre each day, it becomes easier to meet and collaborate with people, compared with traveling across the city. It also enables the ‘water cooler’ chats as you cross paths with other people who you haven’t seen in a while. Plus, there are plenty of cool cafes and bars to match the vibe of the meeting you’re having.

In terms of our urban environment, what do you believe are the key elements to regenerating our central city?

Ultimately, it’s about having more people choose to live in the city centre so it becomes a 24-hour destination, and not just a 9-to-5 place of work. People also need to feel safe walking around – both during the day and at night.

What role does placemaking have in the community and the future of a vibrant city centre?

It’s important to have dynamic, well-lit places that

“Negativity has no place in Tauranga’s city centre. Those days are gone and it’s well overdue to be positive and excited about our city’s future opportunities and possibilities. Good enough is not acceptable for any part of our city.”

↑ An artist impression of the city’s civic precinct Te Manawataki o Te Papa - Tauranga City Council.

↖ The Strand c 1980. Te Ao Mārama - Tauranga City Libraries Photo 99-417

↑ Events consultant and Flavours of Plenty 2024 festival director Rae Baker.

bring lots of people together. Not only does that provide a greater sense of safety, but it also makes urban spaces a fun place to visit.

Where do you see the future of our city centre heading?

It will become a more vibrant place after hours, and be a safe place for families and adults to enjoy the evenings.

What challenges do you believe the city centre is facing currently, and how do we remedy them for a positive future?

Funding, construction disruptions, car parking, safe and reliable public transport, more coordination across retailers and hospitality businesses.

Tourism Bay of Plenty head of destination marketing, Loretta Crawford, believes placemaking - the multi-faceted approach to planning, design and management of public places - can help bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

How does placemaking affect the local economy?

Unique and authentic experiences enrich individual lives and help to define and create communities. This, in turn, attracts others and draws people to the area where those types of experiences are being

offered. This creates opportunities for new or existing businesses, including retail centres or markets, which can align with the types of experiences that locals or visitors are looking for.

The power of collectively marketing and managing a place or destination can raise the tide (i.e. the potential revenue) for all the individual businesses or organisations they represent.

This ultimately helps to support the local economy and community.

Why is placemaking important to Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty community?

Placemaking can help to optimise public spaces. It can bring people together, encouraging interaction, collaboration or celebration, and helps foster a sense of belonging, connectedness and pride in the places where people live or work.

This creates a stronger sense of identity and ownership among residents, contributing to a more vibrant and resilient community.

This, in turn, is appealing to people who live beyond our region who are consistently looking for those types of community and destination attributes when they’re deciding where to spend their travel money.

Events consultant and Flavours of Plenty 2024 festival director, Rae Baker, says community events are destination drivers and contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life in an area in several important ways.

In your opinion, why do you think placemaking in the community is important? How do you think it affects the local economy?

Placemaking plays a crucial role in every community by fostering a sense of belonging and unity, which in turn promotes overall positive social wellbeing. When individuals feel a strong connection to their surroundings, they are more inclined to participate in community activities, resulting in a more vibrant and cohesive environment for everyone.

How do events contribute to placemaking in the community?

Events as a whole serve as destination drivers, attracting visitors and stimulating economic activity.

– big or small – and I truly believe that events are good for you.

People should support events because they give us a reason to connect with fellow humans. They provide opportunities for joy, laughter and togetherness. They also provide opportunities for growth, an economic boost, and a living for many.

Urban Task Force chairman and managing director of Carrus Corporation Ltd, Scott Adams, says it’s well overdue to be positive and excited about our city’s future.

Describe some positive experiences you have had in our city centre:

I have enjoyed dining at Picnicka and shopping at Farmers at Elizabeth Towers, witnessing the

“When individuals feel a strong connection to their surroundings, they are more inclined to participate in community activities, resulting in a more vibrant and cohesive environment for everyone.”

Community events contribute to the overall wellbeing and quality of life in an area in several important ways. Events like markets and kai and culture celebrations serve as civic centres and gathering places that bring together people from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

They foster a sense of community by providing a space for social interaction and connection.

Events support locally owned and operated businesses, keeping money circulating within the local economy, and often events like markets offer low-risk business opportunities, increasing access to economic opportunities.

Beyond just commerce, free events focus on operating in the public interest and serving public goals like community development, connecting urban and rural economies, and acting as community hubs.

Why do you think people should support events in our city?

Events make up the tapestry of our lives. Many of my happiest memories are from events that I’ve attended

transformation of The Cargo Shed, functions at Clarence and Trinity Wharf, and attending conferences and seminars at The University of Waikato.

I have taken the kids to the art gallery, library and waterfront playground, had a birthday dinner at Harbourside, and broke a sweat up and down the new Elizabeth Street stairwell.

I’ve watched my son play rugby at the Domain, stopped to smell the roses at the Cliff Road gardens, played basketball at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre.

I have invested in Hamilton St and Spring St commercial properties, met friends at Wharf St, and got fitted out for a new suit at Bond & Co.

What are your aspirations for the city’s future progress?

A most fun, vibrant business metropolis and multistoreyed living environment where future generations want to live, work, learn and play.

What do you like about working in our city centre?

Engaging in commerce with highly skilled local citizens who are inspired to drive the city forward for the good of current and future generations, while acknowledging the efforts of past business people and the great businesses they built.

In terms of our urban environment, what do you believe are the key elements to regenerating our central city?

People! High density residential living, new commercial buildings, retail and hospitality, primary, secondary and tertiary education, reserves and parks, civic amenities, and multi-modal transport.

What role does placemaking have in the community and the future of a vibrant city?

Architecture and urban design have a valuable place in the development cycle, but don’t overdo it. Sometimes you have to get on and trust those implementing the construction to do a fine job in creating quality landmarks and lasting legacies for the good of Tauranga.

Where do you see the future of our city centre heading?

There are a multitude of exciting current and future projects that will over the next decade see Tauranga become New Zealand’s most desirable and innovative city in the country.

What challenges do you believe the city centre is facing currently, and how do we remedy them for a positive future?

Reluctance to grow and fear of change are holding our city back. Negativity has no place in Tauranga’s city centre. Those days are gone and it’s well overdue to be positive and excited about our city’s future opportunities and possibilities. Good enough is not acceptable for any part of our city.

Director of The Incubator Creative Hub, Simone Anderson, says 10 years ago she saw a creative opportunity to transform a “neglected, sad city asset” into a space that addressed a deeper need for connection, creativity, and cultural enrichment.

In your opinion, why do you think placemaking in the community is important?

Placemaking inspires and motivates us to create a heart for our city that reflects us all inclusively. We need places that stimulate our senses, comfort us,

City centre projects completed:

→ Cargo Shed upgrade and seismic strengthening

→ Elizabeth St car park building seismic strengthening

→ Spring St car park building seismic strengthening

→ Dive Crescent car park – North and South

→ Elizabeth St East streetscape

→ Tunks Reserve

→ Elizabeth St West streetscape

→ Elizabeth St to 1st Ave walkway

Projects to be finished by Christmas 2024:

→ New car park at 160-176 Devonport Rd

→ Beacon Wharf

→ Waterfront North seawall and promenade

→ Red Square streetscape makeover

→ Masonic Park

→ Waterfront South boardwalk

→ Waterfront destination playground and amenity block

→ New Hamilton St car park building

→ New off-street car park at 160-174 Devonport Rd

Planned for 2028:

Te Manawataki o Te Papa, the heartbeat of Te Papa. The civic precinct will include a new library and community hub, museum, a civic whare, and exhibition gallery.

entertain us, educate us, and bring everyone closer together! These not only boost our happiness, but give us a shared identity and will make us proud to call such a groovy place home. We are more likely to retain our youngsters and at the very least give them something to come back to.

What do you see the role of The Incubator as in the community?

The Incubator is an example of community-led placemaking. Ten years ago, The Incubator saw a neglected, sad city asset as a creative challenge and an opportunity to transform the Historic Village into a space that addressed the practical need for spaces, but also the deeper need for connection, creativity, and cultural enrichment. By fostering spaces that are welcoming, rich in character and importantly with a distinctly non-institutional vibe, The Incubator has created an environment where people feel encouraged to visit, to explore their creativity, share their talents, and engage with their community.

New Kids in Town

Photography by ilk

They took the world by storm with their burgers and beers. Now, Sam and Brad bring you a new American-inspired diner to sink your teeth into. Say goodbye to simple dishes and hello to soul food...

Sam King and Brad Dellar introduced some of the best beers and burgers to Mount Maunganui - now, they bring you a new American-inspired diner.

The sister-business to Palace Tavern in the heart of Mount Maunganui, Blondie is the newest kid in town.

Palace Tavern took the world by storm with its beers and burgers when it opened on Maunganui Road in 2017. A rebrand and new direction saw the burger bar reopen with a new-look decor on Banks Ave in 2023.

Cutting their teeth as business owners of a cafe in Taupo for about seven years, Sam and Brad brought their experience and style to downtown the Mount.

After a successful start with Palace Tavern, they decided to take a bite into something else.

When the hot-spot on Maunganui Road, down the road from Palace Tavern, came up for sale - they jumped on it.

“It was a cool opportunity to do something a bit different,” Sam says. And Blondie Diner was born.

They have stuck to the same American-style diner look and feel with a menu filled with soul and

← Left: The menu is a play on American classics like fried chicken and waffles. Opener: Brad Dellar and Sam King.

comfort food. Think waffles, egg soldiers, and big sandwiches.

“It is a play on American classics. It’s not the cafe classic like poached eggs and eggs bene. We do egg soldiers and omelettes.”

The head chef behind it all is Ella McGill, who has come full circle after working for the boys as the head chef of their Taupo cafe almost 10 years on.

“It is quite cool to have her with us again a decade later,” Sam says.

It was Ella, former Palace Tavern team member Beth Edwards, and Sam who created the Blondie menu, while Brad is the brains behind the design concept for the look and feel of the diner.

“Another cool thing is we do the fit-outs all by ourselves - the tiles, painting, everything. It truly is a labour of love.”

Blondie officially opened in the middle of May and is already bursting with customers keen to try out the newest modern day diner and deli in town.

blondiediner

Cherie’s Foodie Finds

Artisanal Adventures

Words by Cherie Metcalfe

Photography by ilk

Pepper & Me’s Cherie Metcalfe has been busy kneading the details of how a local bread business baked its success, and taste-testing a new garden-to-glass gin experience.

Mount Sourdough Co.

The aroma of a freshly baked sourdough straight from the oven, ready to be sliced and slathered with butter, would have to be one of life’s greatest pleasures. Bringing that joy to the Bay of Plenty for the last 7 years has been mother-and-son team Sam and Margaret of Mount Sourdough Co.

I remember the humble beginnings of Mount Sourdough Co. Six years ago, I would order online and wait for Sam to arrive at my place with the freshlybaked loaves still warm from the oven - straight from his mum’s doorstep and out to the carb-lovers all over town. I’ve loved seeing this business boom, growing from the front doorstep pick-ups to supplying the majority of the supermarkets from Papamoa East all the way to Katikati.

It’s always been such a fascination as to how you go from producing 20 loaves a day to 800 and yet retain the same spectacular loaf that I’ve known and loved since day one. It was easy to assume the pair had been expertly trained bakers.

It turns out Margaret, a teacher, had moved to the beachside to enjoy her retirement and dabble in a sourdough hobby, and Sam (a pilot and engineer) thought he would help set up a little side hustle to keep her busy. The sourdough loaves were perfected, and a Shopify store was created - the more the app went cha-ching cha-ching, the pair must have realised they were onto a beautiful thing. So Sam’s big OE went on pause to help mum build a business.

The process of growing a business where the product needs to be baked, packaged, delivered, put on the shelf and sold all within the same day, has really put so many obstacles in front of the team. They have ticked away slowly and steadily to find solutions and grow the business bit by bit, while still maintaining the traditional long fermentation process that turns the simple flour, water and salt dough into a thing of great beauty.

The journey to developing the unique recipes and process of Mount Sourdough Co. loaves have come from years of practicing techniques, and loads of trial and error. To be able to commercially produce

Cherie’s Foodie Finds

↑ Clockwise from top: From kneading the dough; to baking the bread; and slicing it to perfection; mother-and-son team Sam and Margaret have been perfecting their recipe for the last 7 years.

their sourdough with no added yeasts or preservatives is a rare thing in the industry, and you can taste the difference.

A little tour of the new sourdough HQ showed us the progression from a little oven, to a few bigger ones, to the brand new walk-in oven that can smash out 180 loaves of perfect, evenly baked sourdough at one time. The walls are lined with flour and bannetons, and rows of proofing chillers are all filled with the resting dough for the following day’s delights.

The team of 6 starts at around 3am to prove and bake the dough that’s been fermenting since the previous morning, before starting to prepare the next day’s dough. The driver loads them up in the van and sends them still warm and steamy in their brown paper

packages, off to the Pak’n Saves, New Worlds and Four Squares around the region, ready for us to buy and toast and smash on some avocado, a few slices of tomato and our favourite seasonings for lunch. Sam never did get to take his OE but he’s managed to graduate from the super early morning shifts, to the more admin and growth-based position of figuring out what the next steps are for the future, while Margaret is still experimenting with never ending ideas for new recipes. I’m throwing in the suggestion for a jalapeno and cheddar loaf, and whether or not my dreams come true, I’m sure the pair will continue to be a delicious staple in our local bread isles.

mountsourdough.com

↑ Clockwise from top: An olive branch; the Make Your Own Gin experience; Paul and Angela’s farm of edible botanicals; Cherie chooses which florals and spice to create her own unique recipe.

Matahui Distillery

We may have all heard of the garden-to-plate experiences available around the region, but tucked away in Aongatete is a new kid on the block, set to take the gin world by storm - Matahui Distillery. Founded in 2023, the distillery was started with the simple goal of producing the best gin, using the best quality locally-sourced ingredients. Now, husbandand-wife team Paul and Angela, joined by their friend Shelley, are creating a farm of edible botanicals on their piece of land to bring us a unique ‘garden-toglass’ experience.

Wandering through the stunning edible farm, there is almost every type of fruit and herb you can imagine. With chooks running free and an icy cold G&T in hand, the little piece of land clearly brings a bit of joy to all those who visit.

The trio purchased a state-of-the-art still, and each came up with a recipe to put forward for their first bottled gin. Shelley’s winning recipe combined the citrus notes of lime and baobab with the herbal flavours of fennel and sage, the warm spice of coriander, lemongrass and horopito, and the musky undertone of orris root. Those flavours have been brought to life in Matahui’s signature bottle, the Adventurers Gin.

While the gin itself is spectacular, the real treat that Matahui has to offer is the make your own gin experience, a one-of-a-kind three-hour interactive session, where you learn the process of gin making

from start to finish. Taste all the botanicals available, and guided by the experts come with your own unique recipe, using combos of citrus notes, herbal tones, fruits, florals and spice. The beakers and scales came out and our inner scientists have free rein. Botanicals are popped into the still, and while enjoying cheese platters and the most delectable cocktails, watch the alcohol infuse and evaporate, then the steam cools and drop by drop the (questionably) delicious new gin blends are born, bottled and labeled ready for you to take home and enjoy.

The experience was so much fun that they are booked out for the next month, however, you can jump online and join the mailing list at matahuidistillery.com to keep an eye out for tickets to the experience.

The distillery also offers a tour and tasting experience where you’ll visit the working distillery, see how the gin is made, and finish with a curated tasting and cellar door experience.

The micro distillery has a simple set up, but a lot to offer. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, whether that’s touring, distilling, tasting or shopping, keep Matahui Distillery in mind for your next staff social club event or girls day, and be sure to keep an eye out for the Adventurers Gin with its bold blue label, perfect with classic tonic and a garnish of fennel fronds and a twist of citrus.

matahuidistillery.com

The Power of Public Art

Public art is an outdoor gallery of incredible free creative experiences. Tauranga is on a mission to have a renowned creative collection to be enjoyed by all.

Public Art

Extending beyond gallery and museum walls, public art is one of the most accessible forms of art. Having been around since antiquity with ancient Romans commemorating their Emperors, public art is now no longer confined to memorials and commemorative statues, and rather encompasses a wide range of media from graffiti to colossal contemporary sculptures. Think of public art as an outdoor gallery of incredible art experiences, free for everyone, and accessible every day of the year. Public art is powerful. It can connect, elevate, and transform

communities. It can add vibrancy and joy to a city. Where roads and infrastructure make a city liveable, public art can make it a place that you want to live.

Have you ever visited a city and encountered an artwork that made you stop in your tracks? Was it the size, a dramatic shape, or the intensity of colour? Perhaps it was the artwork itself, its story making you pause and think. How did you feel? Joyous? Unsure? Maybe even sad. Often this meaningful visual encounter lives on in our minds.

Tauranga is on a mission to have a renowned, world-leading public art collection that is enjoyed

by all. This mission began with the adoption of the Public Art Framework, which is Tauranga City Council’s commitment to public art, recognising the role that art can play in creating economic, social, and cultural wellbeing.

The intention of the Framework is to enable and encourage better public art outcomes, applying structure and intentionality to council’s involvement with public art. Over the next few months, and years, we hope to see an increase of public art which will enliven our city centre and beyond.

Here are a few examples of recent public art in our city:

Photograph: Millie Newitt

He Puna Manawa:

Literally meaning ‘an oasis’, He Puna Manawa is the temporary space for our city library whilst its new home is

Takutaimoana Harawira, Punga (Anchor Stone), 2022. Commissioned by Tauranga City Council.

Opposite: Murals by Millie, TSB Bank Wall Mural, 2023. Private commission. Images courtesy of artist.

being built in our new civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa.

He Puna Manawa has been designed as a waka, from the prow and the stern of the waka at each end of the building (on Devonport Rd and Grey St). The Punga, or anchor stone, created by Takutaimoana Harawira, grounds the building to its location and to the stories of Tauranga Moana.

Murals by Millie:

The newest mural to grace Tauranga’s public art scene is situated on the exterior of TSB Bank by Murals by Millie. This artwork is a great example of collaborations from multiple artloving people and organisations! The building’s landlord wanted to increase vibrancy to the area, as well as deter graffiti, so they contacted Creative Bay of Plenty (CBOP) to assist. CBOP then ran a selection process, where Millie was ultimately selected as the artist.

Bobbie Gray:

Almost 3000 illuminated flowers make up Kōwhai Grove by Bobbie Gray, which adorn the ceiling of the Grey Street arcade. Each kōwhai flower has been made using six single-use plastic bottles that have been carved, shaped, heated and painted to

Celebrating Aotearoa’s unique flora and fauna, the pīwakawaka and pōhutukawa feature heavily, as well as motifs, shapes, and colours all inspired by our landscape. The pōhutukawa was chosen not only for its iconic nature, but also to link the mural with Taiohi, a mural by Fin DAC which sits adjacent, creating a harmonious pair of public artworks.

represent the iconic bloom. Inside each of the thousands of flowers are two LED bulbs which, along with sensors, will light the arcade as people make their way down the laneway, highlighting our innate connection to nature.

Despite its stark reminder of the plastic pandemic, Kōwhai Grove offers hope, showcasing how we can reuse and recycle our plastics to create something beautiful. Just as the eye-catching kōwhai flowers attract birds such as tūī, bellbird and kākā, the glowing gold flowers of this kōwhai canopy are designed to attract passers-by.

Photographs: Anne Shirley

Tauranga

↑ Sam Allen, Into Tauranga Moana, 2021-2023. Commissioned by Downtown Tauranga and Tauranga City Council. Opposite: Bobbie Gray, Kōwhai Grove, 2023. Commissioned by Tauranga City Council, with thanks to Envirohub and Resene.

Sam Allen:

Grey Street arcade is further enlivened by local mural artist Sam Allen’s mural depicting Tauranga’s harbour, abundant with marine life. Stingrays skim the ocean floor, penguins dive beneath the surface to catch small

fish, hungry whales search for squid, and octopus hide in rocks - as the tide moves in and out.

In this mural, local artist Sam Allen has captured an underwater world that’s fascinated him since childhood. This mural was commissioned as part of the Activate

Vacant Spaces initiative and in 2023, Sam was commissioned by Tauranga City Council to extend the mural further down the laneway.

Have you encountered the newest public art in Tauranga? Take a walk, look up, and be inspired!

Turning a Dream into Reality: Fife Lane Celebrates Five Years

It has been half a decade since Katherine and Ryan Dippie’s longheld dream of creating an authentic, quality, dining experience came to life. So what is their secret to success?

↑ The Fife Lane team: Ryan Dippie, Robbie Webber, Scott Hinton, and Katherine Dippie.

It all started with a dream.

Katherine and Ryan Dippie always wanted to open their own restaurant. But not just any restaurant - an authentic, quality, dining experience in the heart of Mount Maunganui.

Now, the Fife Lane team is celebrating five years since their long-held dream of creating a landmark hospitality business came to life.

“To create something from just a dream to what it is today is pretty cool,” says Ryan.

And they say they couldn’t have done it without the efforts and support of their talented team - some of which have been with them since the beginning.

Their secret to success comes down to the team of people they have around them.

Executive chef and kitchen manager Robbie Webber, who has 30 years’ of experience, and operations manager Scott Hinton have been with them since the very beginning.

“Robbie is a great chef,” Katherine says. “His passion is teaching people and being a leader. He knows his food and the style of food that we cook here really is a representation of him.”

While Scott Hinton is the “Face of Fife”. “I don’t think you come in here without seeing Scott.”

Function and communications manager Suzelle Lockhart and Maitre d’ and training manager Paige Shaw have also been crucial members of the team since the early years.

Established in 2019, Fife Lane Kitchen and Bar showcases the team’s steadfast dedication to exceptional cuisine and wine within a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant features an array of meats exhibited in a bespoke glass meat locker that pays homage to traditional butcher shops of yesteryear, as well as a carefully curated selection of vintage wines - all wrapped in an intimate industrial-chic setting.

It was while owning a previous venue in Papamoa that Katherine and Ryan say they really honed their skills in the industry. It was how the exceptional Fife Lane was created.

But, Ryan says, it is not just about the food - it is about the full experience.

“People aren’t looking forward to going out and having an average meal. They want to be blown away.

“The little things we do here to create that full experience are just status quo.”

It is the service that the Fife Lane team

provides that sets them apart and they take pride in learning the difference between service and hospitality.

“They are not the same thing,” Katherine says. “Service is the manual things you do like taking orders etc, but hospitality is how people feel.”

Ryan says it has been special to see some of the original team grow alongside the business.

“Looking at how much we have evolved with our experience is just a credit to the team.”

Since opening five years ago, they have embraced the challenges of working in an open kitchen as well as new technology.

And they have never wavered from the initial dream of creating that authentic, quality, dining experience.

“We have stayed true to the core essence of what we are.”

“A lot of what we do here is timeless,” Ryan says. “Red wine and quality meat have always been a classic.”

Their hard work has been recognised with their newest ranking in the top 101 World’s Best Steak Restaurant list at number 69 and the only New Zealand venue to be ranked this year.

The team also won the title of Supreme Establishment in the 2022 Bay of Plenty Hospitality

Awards and the Outstanding Ambience and Design Award in the Restaurant Association of New Zealand Hospitality Awards the same year.

Although a fantastic recognition, the awards are just the cherry on top. As local business owners, Katherine and Ryan like to have their fingers on the pulse of industry initiatives, including sustainability courses and events such as the recent Flavours of Plenty food festival.

“We want to be part of the community and be part of the conversations. Especially on how we can help the developing of the Bay of Plenty food scene.”

But they aren’t stopping yet.

“Our dream now is now evolving the people that are actually within the company,” Ryan says. “Ultimately our staff are talented people. What can we do to make it better for them in the future and share what we have learned? If the bones of the business and the systems are in place - talent always follows.”

Fast forward another five years and the team hopes to continue to add to Tauranga’s hospitality scene. “Fife Lane isn’t going anywhere,” says Ryan. “We want it to be something hopefully people talk about in 20 years time.”

fifelane.co.nz

Red wine and quality meat have always been a ‘classic’.

C A T S

MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

BASED ON “OLD POSSUM’S” BOOK OF PRACTICAL CATS

Healing our Whenua

Words by Rebecca Lee of Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust

Photography by Adrienne Pitts Kōrero

A lifetime of learning and a yearning to bring people together led Pā Ropata to start Tīwaiwaka - a set of six key principles and a collective of people committed to restoring the mauri (lifeforce) of the whenua (land).

Down an unassuming gravel driveway in rural Bay of Plenty, a native rongoā (medicinal) ngahere (forest) is being cared for by Pā Ropata. It’s hard to believe that just 20 years ago, this same land was a retired dairy farm with little biodiversity and bereft of native understorey.

Robert McGowan, fondly known to most as Pā after being gifted the moniker by a Māori elder, is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading rongoā Māori experts. He lives with his wife, daughter and Sable the dog, surrounded by native bush that he sourced from seed and has nurtured ever since, which is increasingly loud with bird song.

“I just love plants. I’m fascinated by them and I love learning from them,” he says as he shows Our Place what initially appears to be four completely different shrubs, but are all Coprosma acerosa grown from seed collected in four very different locations - Desert Road, Chatham Islands, Mahia and Matakana Island.

“Just like people, plants adapt to different environments.”

Just a few metres away from the whare (house) and experimental nursery, there’s a quiet spot under a canopy of kauri

perfect for karakia and wananga.

“Karakia is about clearing your mind of all the busyness. It’s about taking a deep breath, putting all that aside, focusing on listening to the stillness of a place and the openness that comes from that,” says Pā.

“This place captures people. This is where I work with people who will one day continue our mahi. I’m not as young as I was and I’m not going to last forever. It’s important to inspire a new generation of people to share the tools”.

Pā is decorated in his field, and his honours include a Queen’s Service Medal, a University of Waikato Medal and the Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) Loder Cup Award. He’s at the forefront of many local and national conservation efforts, the patron of Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust, and co-founder of Tane’s Tree Trust, and yet, he never uses the words “I” or “me”.

“It’s always us,” he says, “we’re all part of a whānau and connected. When you speak, you’re really just a face for the people who have come before you. And the only time that you should use “me” is when you do something selfish. And I try not to do anything selfish”.

Despite his wealth of

knowledge, a kōrero with Pā is effortless and there is no personal hierarchy, regardless of the topic. His approachability and kindness was evident during our hui over a kaputī (cup of tea) and biscuits, when Kaewa - one of Pā’s students - popped by to collect harakeke (native flax) for her raranga (weaving) class. Instead of rushing off, she saw cars in the driveway and sat down to join us.

Bringing together a lifetime of learning, and a yearning for people to work better together, Pā started Tīwaiwaka - a set of six key principles and a collective of people committed to restoring the mauri (lifeforce) of the whenua (land). These principles are: 1. Te Whenua is the priority, 2. We are not the centre of the universe but we are part of it, 3. The mauri is the web of connections that sustains life, 4. Te tāngata, people, are not the masters of the mauri; we are part of it, 5. No individual is more important than any other, and 6. We give special care to the tiniest living creatures.

“Tīwaiwaka really came out of the fact that we can hear the whenua crying and how desperate it is for healing. There’s so many people doing their own thing but not listening to each other. We needed something to weave us

“The only way we can effectively restore the whenua is to have everyone on the waka - the richest, the poorest, the people who live rurally and the city dwellers… everyone. We need to come together as one voice of hope and positive energy.”

together. And that’s what these principles do.

“When we work together we can achieve much more than each of us can individually”.

An example of Tīwaiwaka in action is Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust (MKMT), a proudly co-governed Trust of which Pā is patron. MKMT is restoring the mauri of the Kaimai Mamaku ngahere and its catchments through shared knowledge and collective action. They currently fund 10 iwi-hāpu led pest-control projects in the ngahere.

“The work of the Trust and our project teams is a real-world

demonstration of Tīwaiwaka principles in action,” MKMT CEO, Louise Saunders, says.

“The Kaimai Mamaku Restoration Project is a collective of kaitiaki working towards restoring the mauri of the whenua. The restoration includes the health of everything from insects, seedlings, birds, trees, soil and water, through to the wellbeing and connectedness of our people and communities.

“Pā is not only our patron, he’s our teacher, mentor and our project ‘compass’”.

While MKMT and the Tīwaiwaka principles are only in

their infancy - both started in 2019 - Pā’s experience is anything but.

“My love of rongoā started way back. My mum grew up in the bush and had that knowledge,” he reminisces.

“Then, just after I started school my kaumatua took us into the ngahere and gave us a bit of nīkau to eat. We called it the ‘millionaire’s salad’ because you have to kill the tree to get the pith right in the middle. I’ll never forget that experience”.

In ‘74, as a young priest, Pā went to the Whanganui River to learn about propagating and growing native plants, and

Kōrero

↑ Pā (pictured with his dog Sable) is not only a patron, he’s a teacher, mentor, and project ‘compass’.

Clockwise from top left: Inside Pā’s nursery; Pā and Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust CEO Louise Saunders; restoring everything from seeds to trees.

↑

their traditional uses under the guidance of kaumātua and kuia.

“When I went back to Whanganui to share Tīwaiwaka with them they said, ‘we already know, we’ve been trying to tell you for years!’”

After progress was stalled by the pandemic, Tīwaiwaka is building momentum and recently ticked over 10,000 copies sold nationwide. Pā compares this to a tree - starting as small as a seed and now growing and beginning to stand tall.

In mid-May, a group of 30 people, all hand-chosen by Pā

to represent different corners of society, came together to kōrero and connect.

“The only way we can effectively restore the whenua is to have everyone on the waka - the richest, the poorest, the people who live rurally and the city dwellers… everyone. We need to come together as one voice of hope and positive energy,” he says.

While Pā isn’t Māori himself, he bows his head to the tino rangatiratanga and kaitiaki that have been here before him, and will come after him.

“When you’re young, you

don’t want to listen to anybody. When you get older you start taking notice of older people. Migrants do the same. We come to a place and assume we know it all. Then our confidence gets knocked a bit because we ruin a few things. And then, we start listening to those that were here before.

“That’s what’s happening now - we [pākehā] are learning to listen to those that have always been here”.

mkm.org.nz

kaimai-mamaku.org.nz

tīwaiwaka.nz

Tiwaiwaka came out of the fact we can hear the whenua crying, says Pā.

← Pā lives surrounded by native bush he sourced from seed and has nurtured ever since.

The Breakthrough in Skin Regeneration

Appearance Coach is committed to helping you look and feel your best, inside and out. Now, they’re ushering in a new era of skincarea revolutionary treatment promoting natural beauty from within.

In the realm of aesthetics and skincare, innovation is the cornerstone of progress. Every now and then, a revolutionary treatment emerges, promising to redefine beauty standards and transform the way we care for our skin.

Among these breakthroughs, Sunekos stands out for those seeking youthful, radiant skin without invasive procedures or harsh chemicals. So, what exactly is Sunekos?

In essence, Sunekos is a cutting-edge injectable treatment that harnesses the power of amino acids and hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate and regenerate the skin from within.

Sunekos works on a cellular level, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, the building blocks of healthy, youthful skin. But what sets Sunekos apart from other injectables is its unique formulation.

By combining a patented blend of amino acids with hyaluronic acid, Sunekos not only plumps and hydrates the skin but also promotes natural healing and regeneration. This holistic approach to skincare ensures long-lasting results that go beyond mere surface-level improvements.

The versatility of Sunekos is another aspect that makes it a game-changer in the field of aesthetics. Whether you’re struggling with fine lines and wrinkles, dullness and uneven texture, or even acne scars and stretch marks, Sunekos offers a comprehensive solution. Its ability to target multiple skin concerns simultaneously makes it a favourite among skincare enthusiasts and practitioners alike.

Here at Appearance Coach, we’ve always been passionate about providing treatments that deliver incredible results without compromising on safety or quality. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that we are one of the first clinics in the Bay of Plenty to offer Sunekos.

At Appearance Coach we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve and offering our clients the latest and most innovative treatments available, but we will only ever offer treatments that have proven results and that we would be happy to pay full price for ourselves.

But what exactly makes Sunekos so exciting for us and our clients? The answer lies in its ability to transform not just the appearance of the skin, but its overall quality and vitality. Sunekos doesn’t just mask imperfections; it addresses the underlying causes of aging and damage, restoring the skin’s natural resilience and radiance.

Imagine waking up every morning to skin that looks and feels rejuvenated, revitalised, and refreshed. With Sunekos, that dream can become a reality.

Whether you’re in your twenties and looking to hydrate, improve skin thickness and prevent signs of aging or in your fifties and seeking to reverse fine lines and sun damage. Sunekos offers a customised solution tailored to your unique needs and goals.

But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Sunekos is its safety profile. Sunekos is gentle yet effective, making it suitable for all skin types and tones. With minimal discomfort and downtime, you can

Cosmetic nurse Kirsty Smith. Advanced dermal therapist Jackie Ngawhika. Director Leisa McGill. Cosmetic nurse Kim Wright.

The Appearance Coach invites you to experience the transformative power of Sunekos for yourself.

enjoy noticeable improvements in your skin’s texture, tone, and overall appearance without disrupting your busy schedule. As we usher in a new era of skincare innovation, we invite you to experience the transformative power of Sunekos for yourself.

Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast looking to enhance your routine or a newcomer to the world of aesthetics seeking a non-invasive solution to your skin concerns, Sunekos offers a safe, effective, and scientifically proven approach to achieving your skincare goals.

At Appearance Coach, we’re committed to helping you look and feel your best, inside and out. With Sunekos, we’re proud to offer a treatment that aligns with our philosophy of promoting natural beauty and empowering our clients to embrace their unique selves. Say goodbye to dull, tired skin and hello to a radiant, youthful complexion with Sunekos. Your journey to healthier, happier skin starts here. Contact us today to take advantage of our introductory offer!

appearancecoach.co.nz

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Straight From the Hearth

Words, recipes & styling by Holly

McVicar

Photography by ilk

Winter has surely arrived, and weekends are packed with staying local for the kids’ Saturday sports, a quick trip to the Farmers Market, and making the most of fresh in-season produce.

My beetroot crostini brings colour to the table, the humble cauliflower gets an upgrade, and once you try these apple cinnamon scrolls you’ll find it hard to go back to the traditional style.

Beetroot Crostini

Try this Ukrainian inspired crostini next time you’re entertaining. It’s vibrant, and creamy, and pairs great with freshly sliced and toasted sourdough baguette.

SERVES 10+ AS AN APPETISER

Fresh baguette plus olive oil for brushing

2 large beetroot, quartered

2 tbsp olive oil

3 large garlic cloves

1 small bundle of dill or fennel tips

¼ cup whole egg mayonnaise (or substitute for thick plain Greek yoghurt or see my vegan cashew aioli recipe below)

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup crumbled feta cheese and a scatter of fresh dill or fennel tips for garnishing

Seasonal Kitchen

↑ Above:

In an oven proof tray, place the beetroot, olive oil, garlic and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 160°C for approximately 20 minutes until the beetroot and garlic are soft.

Remove the beetroot skins and transfer into a blender along with the garlic. Add the herbs, mayonnaise (or substitute as noted above), and blend until smooth. Season to taste.

Slice half a fresh baguette into 1cm thick slices and brush with olive oil. Toast in the oven at 160°C until crisp and golden brown. To serve, spoon over the beetroot, and scatter with crumbled feta and fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Whipped Cashew Aioli and Gremolata

This golden spice crusted cauliflower is creamy, crunchy, and balanced by a zesty topping. While ticking all the boxes for flavour, it’s also packed with protein, and is dairy free, gluten free and vegan.

SERVES 6-8 AS A SIDE

1 medium cauliflower head, leaves and excess stalk removed

¼ cup olive oil

1 tsp each of ground cumin,

This beetroot crostini pairs great with toasted sourdough baguette. Right: Creamy, crunchy, golden spice crusted cauliflower.

coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika

For the roasted chickpeas

1 can of chickpeas, drained

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp each of ground cumin, coriander, salt, and smoked paprika

For the cashew aioli

(makes approximately 1 ½ cups)

1 cup raw cashews

¾ cup water

2 large fresh garlic cloves

2 tsp Dijon mustard

Juice of ½ lemon

Pinch of salt to season

For the gremolata

½ cup fresh parsley

1 clove fresh garlic, crushed

Fine zest of 1 lemon Salt and pepper

Place the cauliflower in a large pot of boiling water, and blanch for 10 minutes until tender. Remove and allow to drain. Pat dry then drizzle with the olive oil and rub well with spice mix.

Preheat oven to 180°C and place cauliflower on one side of a large, lined baking sheet.

In a bowl, mix the drained chickpeas, olive oil and spices together and scatter onto the other half of the baking sheet. These will roast at the same time, creating a golden and crispy finish to both. Place in the oven for approximately 30 minutes, checking halfway

through and giving the chickpeas a stir.

In a blender, place cashews, water, garlic, Dijon mustard and lemon juice and blend until creamy. This takes about a minute. Taste and season with salt as required.

Finally, for the gremolata, finely chop the parsley, and add to a small bowl with the crushed garlic, lemon zest and give a good season with salt and pepper.

To serve, spread the base of a large serving plate with the aioli (reserve some for drizzling), top with the warm roasted cauliflower, drizzle over the reserved aioli, and scatter over the roasted chickpeas and gremolata just before serving.

↑ Above and Opener: These warm, fluffy cinnamon scrolls are the answer to what to do with the abundance of apples in your fruit bowl.

Apple Cinnamon Scrolls

I have an abundance of apples from friends and family at the moment and these warm fluffy cinnamon scrolls with apple filling are my new favourite take on the usual butter laden version.

MAKES 12 LARGE SCROLLS

Filling

8 large apples, peeled, cores removed, and roughly chopped

1/3 cup brown sugar

½ tbsp ground cinnamon

Dough

250ml warm milk

1 tbsp instant bread yeast

1/3 cup brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 large eggs

50g salted butter

4 cups flour

Pinch of salt

Glaze

1 cup icing sugar

1 tsp hot water

Start with the filling. In a saucepan, chop the apples and add the brown sugar and cinnamon. On a medium heat, stir constantly until the apples are reduced into a thick puree and

starting to stick to the bottom of the saucepan. You want to reduce as much excess liquid from the filling as possible. Set aside to cool.

For the dough, add the warm milk, sugar, and yeast to a stand mixer and allow to foam. Add the remaining ingredients and mix slowly with the dough attachment, increasing speed as it combines. Mix for approximately 5 minutes until the dough forms a ball and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Cover and allow dough to rise in a warm place for about half an hour.

On a clean benchtop, dust generously with flour and roll out the dough into a large rectangle approximately 1cm thick. Spread the apple filling over the dough evenly and cut the dough into 12 even strips from short edge to short edge. Roll each strip into a spiral and place into a large oven proof tray lined with baking paper.

Once all rolls are in the dish, cover and place back in a warm spot to rise again for approximately 1 hour.

Pre-heat your oven to 180°C fan forced. Once cinnamon rolls are risen, bake in the oven until golden brown, for me they took 25mins. Remove from the oven and mix the glaze ingredients together and drizzle over the top. Best served warm.

Recipes and food styling by Holly McVicar @madebyhollys

Photography by Erin Cave @ilk_nz

In this issue, we’ve partnered with local company CM Props & Backdrops for the photoshoot @cmbackdrops

Architectural Excellence, Designed with Purpose

Words by Megan Raynor

Photography by Ben Parry/Untitled Studio

Right in the heart of the Mount, JMAC Architecture studio is where architectural creativity happens. Led by founder Jason Macdonald, this studio has quietly made waves over the last 15 years, with a recent string of national and regional architectural awards.

Jason Macdonald, the heart and soul of JMAC, is no stranger to the world of design. From an early age, Jason’s journey has been one of quiet dedication, growing his skill and appreciation for his craft over his many years in the industry. Yet, despite the accolades, his feet remain firmly planted on the ground, driven by

a love for family, his dogs and his sense of belonging to this region.

But what sets JMAC apart isn’t just their impressive design talents – it’s their approach to relationships, there are no egos here. They don’t just design houses; they build connections. With each project, they take the time to listen, understand, and collaborate, ensuring that every home they create is a celebration of its inhabitants and creates a connection with the environment we are proud to call home. Recently Jason was handed the keys to a

“No one starts a building process because they want to make new friends, but building a relationship based on trust and collaboration is a true testament of a successful project”.

Pukehina beach front holiday home he’d created for a house-proud client, so that he and his wife could experience it for themselves. “The perks of our efforts,” laughed Jason.

While a weekend staycation isn’t the usual for every build, the close relationship with the client often is. It’s a testament to the way the JMAC team makes their clients feel, and their commitment to understanding the unique traits and needs of each homeowner, so that the architecture can respond to these. The design and build journey can take the relationship over several years. Clients need to spend that time with someone they can trust and collaborate with, otherwise, the design journey will not be an enjoyable one.

As Jason explains it, “No one starts a building process because they want to make new friends,

but building a relationship based on trust and collaboration is a true testament of a successful project”.

This people-first philosophy continues to lead the team, no matter how many awards they add or clients they attract. “We can’t say we design with purpose unless we take the time and the care to not only create functional and aesthetic architecture but to also connect with each individual’s purpose for the build. It’s a big responsibility we don’t take lightly,” Jason says.

If you’re considering an architecturally designed new home or renovation, it’s safe to say you’ll be in good hands with JMAC Architecture. Visit their Instagram or website to see their award-winning builds, including the Pukehina Beach beauty.

@jmacarchitecture, jmacarchitecture.co.nz

This is My Identity:

Story by Zoe Hunter

Photography by Naera Ohia

Proud to be Māori

Kereama Taepa speaks te reo Māori through his ringaringa. It is his art that connects him to his culture. Matariki is the busiest time of year for artists like Kereama who explores ways Māori culture can be reimagined through the digital world.

A lot of people didn’t think Kereama Taepa was Māori growing up.

On the outside, he was a pale-skinned, blondehaired boy.

But on the inside, he is Te Arawa, he is Te Āti Awa, he is Māori.

“Growing up, it wasn’t until people heard my name that they knew I was Māori,” he says. “But this is me, this is my identity.”

The Pāpāmoa artist may not be fluent in te reo but he speaks the language through his ringaringa - his hands.

“There are many gaps in my Mātauranga Māori (knowledge) especially with the reo. But I am happy with who I am and where I am at and I own that.”

Kereama, 44, is an award-winning contemporary Māori digital artist who creates artwork based on customary Māori artforms with a technological twist.

He uses digital technologies, including 3-Dimensional printing, augmented reality, virtual reality, and projection mapping to create interactive experiences that blur the boundaries between the physical, digital and spiritual realms.

His art explores ways in which Māori concepts such as whakapapa (genealogy), tikanga (customs), and kaitiakitanga (stewardship) can be reimagined through digital technologies.

Kereama has exhibited his art nationally and internationally, with accolades including the Runner Up Award at the National Art Awards 2018, Supreme Award winner of the Rotorua Art Awards 2017, and the Molly Morpeth 2D Art Award in 2008.

He is also the first digital artist to have his work acquired by the Parliamentary Collection in 2023.

Born in Wellington’s Upper Hutt in 1979, Kereama grew up in an artistic family with a Pākehā mum and Māori dad.

His grandmother on his mother’s side was a painter and his dad, Wi Te Tau Pirika Taepa, is a leading figure in contemporary Māori clay art. “We were surrounded by art.”

As a child, Kereama would constantly be in his

dad’s studio carving wood or bone, or working with clay.

He attended a Māori boarding school for boys in Hawke’s Bay, Te Aute College.

“I didn’t really enjoy school, but I loved art,” he says. By his sixth form year, Kerema had moved to a public school in Upper Hutt and for his final school project, he made giant pots out of clay in his dad’s studio.

“The teacher rang up to ask dad if I had actually made them,” he says with a laugh. “She didn’t believe I made them. The principal ended up buying them and they ended up in his office.”

By seventh form, he decided to leave school and get a full-time job at Pak’nSave, where he worked in the supermarket industry until he was about 20-years-old. Although he learned the art of whakairo (Māori carving) with his father and was familiar with pōwhiri (Māori welcoming ceremony), and the marae, Kereama says he didn’t truly engage with his taha Māori until he was much older.

“I did kapa haka at school and can remember the ‘Poi E’ hit single playing in our household and, of course, the artwork dad created.”

It wasn’t until he went to Massey University to study a Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts that he says he learned the wider context and history of Aotearoa.

“University was an eye opener. It was when I learned you can live your life knowing you are Māori but almost don’t know what that means.”

And Kereama is proud to be Māori.

“It is just who you are. It means nothing and everything at the same time. It is illusive in the sense you don’t really think about it, you just do, you just are,” he says.

“Everyone has their own cultural heritage, their own whakapapa, their own views. If you’re not proud of it you’re doing something wrong.”

Kereama says it is his art that continues to connect him to his Māori culture.

He grew up learning the intricacies of Māori carving but it was Kereama who taught himself the digital art form. Studying an undergraduate paper in design at university was where he found his love for digital art.

“That was it. From there, I couldn’t get enough of it,” he says. “As an artist, there are things you vibe with and things you don’t. I suck at drawing. I have a masters in art and I cannot draw. Stick figures are my jam.”

It was half way through his masters that New Zealand tā moko artist Julie Paama-Pengelly, who was the head of a Whakatāne art school at the time, encouraged him to take a job teaching Māori visual arts.

It was during this time that Kereama and his wife Rebecca moved to Pāpāmoa. They were visiting the beachside town and had seen a pod of dolphins while

eating Burger King on the beach.

“If there was ever a sign to move to the Bay of Plenty, that was it,” he says. “We came up on a Friday and pretty much found a house on the weekend to rent.”

Kereama worked for the art school for nearly five years before being made redundant during the Global Financial Crisis in 2018.

After six months, he took a job teaching art at Waiariki Institute of Technology - now known as Toi Ohomai - in Rotorua where he stayed for 15 years.

A year ago, he was made redundant once more.

Kereama is now working for Te Tuhi Māreikura Trust - a trust set up to advocate and promote Māori art and artists in Tauranga Moana - to create an online gallery where Māori artists can regularly exhibit their work. People can view the artists’ work on the online gallery as well as be guided to each of their individual websites.

The online gallery, called Te Tauranga Toi, is not only providing artists with a platform to show their artwork but gain business knowledge as well.

The idea, Kereama says, is a social economic development project to help upskill the artists.

“When you’re at art school you learn the art but

you don’t actually learn the business of art.

“Te Tauranga Toi gives that wrap-around service. If they can turn their passions into an income that has a wider flow on effect to their whanau, their kids, and their wider communities. It’s not just a gallery, it is a lot deeper and broader than that.”

Kereama says he loves being able to help people through the world of art.

“It enables us to have a far reach but it also helps people and it is all anchored around art, which is me.”

He has also been helping to put together a Matariki events website through the Trust, which launched in May - mymatariki.co.nz. On this website, the Trust also aims to live stream its Māori awards evening Ngā Tohu Toi, which recognises creatives from Tauranga Moana that have done amazing work both nationally and internationally.

It is also working on short videos with Taurangabased master navigator Jack Thatcher speaking about the meaning of Matariki.

As part of Matariki, the Trust is also organising an augmented reality sculpture trail at The Strand in Tauranga and Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka in Mount Maunganui in June - a first of its kind for

↑ Kereama Taepa explores ways Māori concepts can be reimagined through digital technologies.

“Through my work, I hope to inspire viewers to see the world around them in new and transformative ways, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of our shared human experience.”

↑ Matariki tends to be a time for relaxation but for Māori artists it is the busiest time of year.

Aotearoa, says Kereama. The sculpture trail will include eight signs - one information sign and seven QR codes that people can scan to access augmented reality artworks by seven different artists.

“The best way to talk about AR is if you have ever played Pokemon Go, that is what AR is,” Kereama says. Matariki is the Pleiades star cluster and a celebration of its first rising in late June or early July and marks the beginning of the new year in the Māori lunar calendar.

While it was a time for joyous occasions, Kerema says Matariki is generally a time for rest and relaxation, casting your memory back, as well as thinking of the future. It is also a time to remember those who have passed. For Kereama, he remembers his late mother Jan Taepa who passed away a few years ago.

“Although, I think about her daily. It is not just once a year.”

In customary times, Kereama says, we would look to the stars to dictate certain things like when to harvest or plant food.

“Matariki is essentially a lead-in to winter when your food stocks are full, you’ve done heaps of labour and are now going into a period of resting.

“The time surrounding Matariki tends to be relaxation and play and celebration because you have already done the hard mahi.”

But for Māori artists, he says, it is the busiest time of the year. “The Matariki calendar for artists is insane. Because all of these events require artists to have their hand in turning the visual aspects. Everyone wants something that is related to Matariki.”

More recently, Kereama says, Matariki has become a time that has given a wider appreciation and context for Māori culture. “It is sort of like a nice entry point into Māori culture.”

Ultimately, Kereama’s art is a celebration of Māori culture and a reminder that even in the digital age, we remain deeply connected to the natural world and to each other.

In May, Kereama and renowned musician, producer, and innovator Tiki Tāne (Ngāti Maniapoto) merged their two worlds to create a brand new performance experience - Mai Te Uira. The creative collaboration of music and digital animation toured four locations: Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Whangārei, and Te Puke.

“Through my work, I hope to inspire viewers to see the world around them in new and transformative ways, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of our shared human experience.”

tetaurangatoi.co.nz mymatariki.co.nz

Plant Life

Photography by Fred Brockett

New Zealand’s lush landscapes are home to a rich tapestry of native plants, each with unique properties and profound significance. Central to this exploration is the concept of Kaitiakitanga, the Māori principle of guardianship and environmental stewardship embodying a deep respect for the land, urging us to act as responsible custodians of our natural resources. This principle reminds us that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of our environment. As we visit the historic imagery and medicinal properties of these native plants, we invite you to reconnect with the wisdom of the past and embrace the responsibility of preserving our natural heritage.

Kūmarahou

Pomaderris, circa 1910, by Fred Brockett. Purchased 1957. Te Papa (B.008508)

Kūmarahou has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The plant is often used to treat respiratory conditions, skin ailments, and digestive issues. Kūmarahou’s natural compounds are believed to soothe and heal.

Horopito

Pseudowintera, circa 1910, by Fred Brockett. Purchased 1957. Te Papa (B.008495)

Horopito, also known as the New Zealand pepper tree, has been traditionally used for its medicinal qualities. It is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help treat a variety of ailments. Horopito has been used to soothe digestive issues, alleviate skin irritations, and support overall immune health. Its active compound, polygodial, contributes to its effectiveness in combating infections and inflammation.

kānuka

Leptospermum ericoides, circa 1910, by Fred Brockett. Purchased 1957. Te Papa (B.004532)

Kānuka is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving properties. Kānuka oil, extracted from the leaves, is often used to treat skin conditions, wounds, and muscle aches. Additionally, it can help alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues and support overall immune health. This versatile plant remains a key component in natural health remedies, providing a powerful, natural alternative for various ailments.

Kawakawa

Macropiper excelsum, circa 1910, by Fred Brockett. Purchased 1957. Te Papa (B.004514))

Kawakawa is renowned for its extensive medicinal properties. The leaves and stems of the plant contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it effective for treating a range of ailments. Kawakawa can be used topically to soothe cuts, wounds, and skin irritations, or consumed as a tea to aid digestion and relieve stomach discomfort. Additionally, its antibacterial properties help in preventing infections and promoting overall well-being.

Koromiko

Hebe or Koromiko, circa 1910, by Fred Brockett. Purchased 1957. Te Papa (B.008310)

Koromiko (Hebe stricta) has been employed to treat various ailments. The leaves, when chewed or brewed into a tea, are believed to aid in digestive issues such as diarrhoea and dysentery. Additionally, the plant has anti-inflammatory properties and can be applied topically to soothe skin irritations and wounds. The natural compounds found in koromiko make it a valuable resource for promoting overall wellness and addressing specific health concerns.

In the shimmering twilight of a dusky Mount evening, as the amber hues of the setting sun intermingle with the rhythmic clatter of a passing motorbike gang, I find solace in the most unexpected of vessels. Not in the clinking glasses of some uptight vino or an obnoxious pastel RTD, but in the e ervescent embrace of some nonalcoholic brews as I mentally prepare for Dry July.

IPA

There’s a few things I’ve found myself worrying about lately, such as entrenched ideologies, misinterpreting memes, understanding Bitcoin, and the age-related risk of penile curvature! But all that middle-aged anxiety seems to dissipate when you consider that at least there’s zero chance of regrettable karaoke after drinking this brew, which has the audacity of being non-alcoholic.

Imagine, if you will, some afternoon delight—crisp, refreshing, and, to be honest, totally unexpected. It opens with a symphony of citrus, a high note of grapefruit that prances on the tongue, followed by a sturdy malt backbone. It’s the designated driver of IPAs, ensuring everyone gets home in one piece.

State of Play’s IPA embodies the perfect balance, striking with bold flavours yet without the hangover. This brew is the better version of myself, imparting some wise insight with each sip. In an era of misinformation, it’s refreshing to know that some things—like the quality of this non-alcoholic IPA—are indisputable truths and helping me navigate my middle-aged turmoil.

Hoppy Ale

The name suggests a cheeky protest against government control, but I’m not buying it. This nonalcoholic brew carries an air of rebellion, yet it tastes more like a solitary protestor than a gathering of disillusioned citizens. The first taste is a slap of hops, a bitterness that asserts itself boldly but quickly mellows out and stops short of throwing a brick through the window, leaving you wondering if the demonstration lacked some leadership.

There’s an irony here: BrewDog claims to defy the nanny state, yet here they are, delivering a responsible, non-alcoholic option. It’s full of flavour, sure—layers of citrus, pine, and malt that set up camp on your palate—but it lacks the wild, untamed spirit its name suggests.

Nanny State is a contradiction in a can. It wants to tip over a few cars and defecate in the local park but ends up merely pulling o a window wiper and using the public toilet without flushing. It’s a tasty brew, no doubt, but the rebellion feels half-hearted, a polite protest wrapped in a very drinkable package.

Fittest Blonde

The first time I experienced Belgium was by accident over 20 years ago, while skimming along the northern border of France in a little Renault Twingo. It was a late-night stop in a small village where the only open pub required some delicate international relations. We had to deal with a small collection of barflies who seemed to be running the joint. Collectively, they were struggling to speak French, let alone Dutch, German, or English.

This non-alcoholic blonde beer reminds me of the disoriented chef who presented us with a plate of ‘pasta’ that closely resembled scraps from an earlier meal.

Although the beer is full of character and spice, its only real achievement is its responsibility aspect. In essence, it’s a brew that captures the quirky, unpredictable charm of that night.

It’s a beer that tells a story, but one that might be best enjoyed for its novelty rather than its taste. Like the chaotic yet vaguely memorable evening in that Belgian village, this beer leaves a distinct impression, even if it isn’t exactly what you were expecting.

Tiny Hazy IPA

Garage Project is the annoyingly good team in the cricket social league, the ones that arrive in V formation with names like Davo, Gazza, and Tommo emblazoned on their impeccable uniforms. As much as you want them to falter, perhaps even lose one game in embarrassing circumstances, you can’t deny that their natural ability keeps them streets ahead of the rest of the mishmash, who seem to fumble at the simplest of skills, such as catching a ball or walking.

Tiny would be a weapon in any team. It comes to the crease with an unassuming presence but is bursting at the seams to show o its hoppy aromas and juicy notes! A flavour that defies expectations with some pretty fancy footwork and a plethora of skills, from its nice and straight hoppy drive with a high elbow and still head, to its square cut that will send your balls well behind the boundary line.

But if you go too fast through one of its shots, that flashy brilliance will take a turn for the worse, and you’ll be grimacing over an aftertaste that I can only imagine is akin to the team’s shared groin protector.

Little Rock IPA

Urbanaut has struck a chord with me on this one, mainly because I often find myself reminiscing about a time when I could actually skate, although any memory of wearing crop tops or torn-o magentacoloured shorts, as suggested in their label art, must have obviously been eliminated from my recollection’s floppy disk.

They might’ve done a good job at luring me into a state of nostalgia, but much like my skateboarding aptitude from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, it fell short of anything promising other than some memorable powerslides.

The trouble with trying to replicate nonalcoholic IPAs with their full-strength equivalents is that brewers could be tricked into thinking they’re being radical when, in fact, they’re so far o a pleasant experience that they’re pulling out kick turns and tiktacs to a crowd of unimpressed onlookers and waiting for applause nonetheless.

The critique of these brews is a personal assessment and isn’t necessarily shared by Our Place magazine.

From Soil to

Story by Monique Balvert-O’Connor

Stonemasonry and Ceramics

Meet the Omokoroa gardner who does it all. From stonemasonry to ceramics and everything in between, Christine’s home garden is the absolute definition of a labour of love. And this is why...

When it comes to gardening, Christine Whiteley doesn’t just toil in the soil. The Omokoroa gardener dabbles in stonemasonry, welding, and ceramics too. This multi-talented woman’s adeptness with her hands can be attributed to both a creative nature and a curiosity to stretch herself. If the garden needs a stonewall, or her ceramic flowers need a steel stem, why not figure out how to do these things yourself?

Such a mantra has been applied to the Omokoroa property she shares with husband Barry. The two moved from the Waikato two years ago to their hill-top home with its expansive water and Kaimai views. The move marked the time to retire for Christine who has spent 37 years as a physiologist – recent years were spent looking after Waikato Hospital’s pacemaker patients. She has also worked as a landscape designer.

There was no resting for this retiree though. As well as enjoying outdoor pursuits such as kayaking and fishing, there was a need, she tells, to significantly change the garden – she was keen for a different plant selection and more structure. As regards to the latter, a stonewall seemed a given. A stonemason was duly called in. He did his thing for two days and then Christine took over completing the job. “I only got two days out of him – working alongside him - as he had a ticket for overseas.

He was planning to come back and finish the wall, but after three months it was all done. It was fun making it.

“I’d had some experience grouting but was happy he taught me how to do the levelling. I then decided to add some stone steps too.” Why not? After all, Christine’s “can do” attitude (she believes she acquired this from growing up on a farm) had worked for her in the past, back in the days when her ceramic creations called for something extra.

“I went to welding night classes about four years ago as I decided I wanted to make a tree to

attach my ceramic blooms too. It is quite a mission, but I enjoy it and find it amusing that men like to check my welding. I can assure them it is strong.

“After night classes I felt obsessed with my work. I do so love my clay,” she enthuses. Branches, trunks, stems are fashioned out of rods used in concrete reinforcing, with these created from Christine’s welding work station that’s part of her ceramic studio at the back of the garage. It’s a happening place, the Whiteley garage. Barry is a home brew maker, and his brewing equipment has been allocated a space too. Christine is in her studio every day and that has impacted the garden design. “We need a lowmaintenance garden, so I can do my pottery,” she states. The Whiteley’s garden revamp has included removing an old fence and massive camellia hedge, adding concrete edging and garden boxes, including raised vege boxes, which Barry enjoys tending. They’ve ensured their garden is now home to favourite plants such as Loropetalum, bromeliads, kangaroo paws, metrosideros (like mini Pohutukawa), lomandra lime tuff, ajuga, hibiscus and agave (which Christine refers to as the drama queen of the garden).

Dotted around her garden are her ceramic creations such as sun flowers, espaliered pears, daisies and pansies. Not too many, mind, as Christine tries not to overload for fear of it looking like a “mad pottery woman’s garden”. Totara posts, adorned with ceramic birds and flowers, also feature. These are big sellers, she tells, fresh from a trip to a Waikato farm to gather more posts. Much of her work is sold at Gordonton’s Mandarin Gallery. She takes commissions too and her ceramics (sold under her business name Petal Pottery – The Ceramic Florist) will be for sale during this year’s Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival.

This year’s Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival will include an impressive array of new gardens and artists to thrill and that includes

Christine’s handiwork, both her garden and her studio.

Christine tells how she attended the last BOP Garden and Art Festival and thought at the time: “I am going to be in that festival”. She’s delighted that intention has gone according to plan.

Festival director Marc Anderson says festival goers are always intrigued to see what new offerings the biennial festival presents. “They won’t be disappointed. This year’s festival offers some wonderful new inclusions, in terms of both gardens and art, and the calibre remains high across both,” he says.

This year’s festival will include 78 garden and

art stops. That includes 57 gardens, nine of those featuring art studios as well. The work of more than 77 registered artists will be displayed on the trail and there will be 21 stand-alone art studio stops. Fortythree per cent of this year’s stops did not feature in the previous festival. Also new and exciting, Marc says, is the festival’s hub where Bloom in the Bay events will be held. This will be along The Strand’s waterfront green area in Tauranga City Centre.

Tickets to the November 14-17 event are available on gardenandartfestival.co.nz and at Palmers Bethlehem (the sponsors of the festival trail). Bayleys will return as the festival’s principal sponsor.

↑ Above and opener: Christine in her ceramic studio and by the stonemasonry wall she helped create.

Wings Up

Words by Katherine Whittaker

Photography by ilk

Ineke Milner is fluent in English, Dutch, and raptor. Her fascination with falcon has led her to a new leading role in educating and advocating for the fierce, yet vulnerable bird of prey.

↑ New Wingspan general manager Ineke Milner (far right) says her team Heidi Stook, Manaia Hall, and Shannon Campion, will always stay linked to the birds they are working and fighting for.

Ineke Milner is bilingual, or perhaps that should be multilingual. Fluent in English, Dutch, and raptor.

As well as the Dutch learned from her parents, the centuries old language of falconry infuses her stories as she speaks. The Taupiri-born dairy farmer’s daughter took the reins as general manager at Wingspan, the National Bird of Prey Centre near Rotorua, in early 2024. The language of raptor – or bird of prey – she has learned from years around birds.

Terms like ‘mantling’ and ‘manning’ fall naturally into conversation, and from her interactions with the birds of prey on site, it is clear how much she knows about the birds. Though Ineke is quick to note that you never stop learning about raptors, and that any interaction with a bird of prey, particularly the kārearea or New Zealand falcon, is entirely on the bird’s terms.

Ineke has always been around animals and had an understanding of the circle and cycle of life. Growing up on a farm she became a keen hunter, first rabbits and possums, then deer. After university, she got her dream job at Wingspan as the rather exotically named Raptor PR and aviculturist. Part of her role was to educate people about birds of prey. And while she has come full circle returning to

Wingspan, the aim has not changed.

The number one priority was, and remains, advocacy for the kārearea. The challenges include the fact the falcon has managed to get a bit of a bad reputation. Compared with the owls at Wingspan, which have the ‘awww cute’ factor, the kārearea has the look and the reputation for being fierce.

“They don’t make it easy. And they do everything on their own terms,” Ineke says. Her small feather earrings move as she speaks, explaining her love for, and fascination with, the falcon.

“They’re not pets, and they can’t be controlled. They are spirited and they allow you into their world if you’re lucky. But it’s absolutely up to them.”

As if to underscore what she is saying, Hihiko - a young New Zealand falcon of just a few months old - hops and flutters from his perch nearby, restless and eager to get out and about.

“A teenager,” Ineke says, smiling, and one who has to learn to acclimate to living and working with people, much like his human counterpart.

Ineke says when New Zealand falcons hunt, they have laser focus, are incredibly fast at up to 200km/h, but will only kill for food. They don’t hunt for sport, unlike cats. But for such fierce hunters, they are surprisingly vulnerable to everything from

↑ Clockwise from above: A female ruru/morepork named ‘Nox’; Heidi with a male falcon called ‘Arohaki’; Ineke with an adult falcon by the name of ‘Star’ on her shoulder.

the introduced predators, particularly when young birds, to threats from interaction with humans. These range from being hit by a car to being shot – which is illegal - to being electrocuted on power poles or transformers.

Ineke says education is the key to helping these sometimes-prickly birds. Research has shown Kaingaroa Forest harbours the densest population of kārearea in the country and, with support from the forestry estate managers, Wingspan has been monitoring them here for around 30 years.

Kārearea are benefiting from forestry management practices; the cutovers provide a suitable nesting environment, an array of prey species, and optimal hunting conditions. Wingspan has a long-standing relationship with Timberlands Ltd, who follow Forestry Management protocols guiding best-practice, report all sightings of falcons, and financially support Wingspan’s work in their forests through an annual research grant.

Wingspan welcomes many groups for Flight of the Falcon - a stunning hour-long display of falconry techniques old and new - and it is the school groups Ineke loves most.

“The kids are the next conservationists, politicians, doctors and scientists, and it’s so important they understand and connect with what we’re trying to do here.”

The feisty falcon has been on a list the team at Wingspan would dearly like it to get off – as a threatened species. And not that it’s a contest, Ineke points out, but with around 10,000 kārearea in the wild, they are much rarer than our national symbol, the kiwi, with numbers in the tens of thousands.

Raptors are sometimes brought to Wingspan injured, with some rehabilitated and returned to the wild, and others finding a permanent home there in the captive breeding programme, or in an education and advocacy role.

After five years at Wingspan the first time around, Ineke left to expand her own horizons, working at International Wildlife Consultants in Wales.

On her return to New Zealand, she did her teacher training, then had several years teaching at Rotorua Lakes High School, where she became known for having a hawk with her in the classroom.

She has travelled extensively, including to overseas falconry festivals and meets – one in Abu Dhabi had 700 falconers from 83 countries. She has been president of the NZ Falconry Association and has played a key role in promoting women in falconry.

“Raptors have captivated people for millennia,” Ineke explains, and kārearea are the one love she cannot seem to let go of.

↑ The team at Wingspan need to raise more than $2 million for a new visitors’ centre, complete with a museum and shop.

“These birds get under your skin. The New Zealand falcons are notorious for being playful, unpredictable and charismatic but really hard to train. You might get a bit frustrated, but you will always come back. That’s a life-long love affair I think.”

Ineke herself came back to Wingspan after founder Debbie Stewart stepped back after more than 30 years. She knows she has big shoes to fill, and a huge redevelopment programme to keep on track.

Ambitious is barely a big enough word to describe the next stage of development for an organisation which receives no government funding, and raises all its money through donations, retail sales (raptor soft toy anyone?), and tickets to Flight of the Falcon.

The team at Wingspan needs to raise more than $2 million to push forward with stage three, a visitors’ centre, complete with museum and shop.

Two stages on the site – the display aviaries and the breeding chambers - have been completed. The display aviaries are like the dressing rooms a movie star might have before a show gets underway, with the names of the stars proudly displayed outside.

This seems appropriate as the birds are absolutely the stars of the show, and key team members when it comes to advocacy and education. The centre will be built on a platform with

sweeping views to nearby Lake Rotorua, and perfect for Flight of the Falcon, a chance for the team to show what the birds can do, and to educate New Zealanders and tourists alike about them.

Ineke says the team loves the reactions to the incredible flying displays and the unpredictable personalities of the birds, which means no two displays are the same, and seeing people light up learning about the birds.

They moved to the stunning location, land leased from Ngāti Whakaue, in 2018.

Ineke still cannot quite believe she is in the general manager’s seat, though she has a strong belief in timing, and things working out as they are meant to.

“Life and the universe have a way of putting things in your way, in a good way,” she says.

The team inspires her every day – and that team very much includes birds Star and Jarli and Hihiko. The human team at Wingspan will always stay linked to the birds they are working and fighting for, their central purpose.

And so long as they stay linked to that ethos, the rest is out of their hands, Ineke says.

“Birds, purpose, people, and charm. That’s the key. And when you get the option to step up, you do. I have a way of saying yes and going for it.”

wingspan.co.nz Wingspan Birds of Prey Trust wingspan.nz

CREATIVE DIRECTORY

Our Place Events Guide

Sat Tauranga Farmers' Market

7.45am–12pm, Tauranga Primary School, 5th Ave, Tauranga

Sun Mount Mainstreet Urban Market

8am-12pm, Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka, 137 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui

Sat– Weekend Drop-in Learning and Art Activities

Sun 10am-4pm, Tauranga Art Gallery POP UP, 42 Devonport Rd, Tauranga

June 2O24

1. The Little Big Markets

9am–2pm Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui

Comedy Improv with The Honest Liars

7.30-9pm, 16th Avenue Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

Project Youth Hip Hop Dance Competition

1-10pm, Mercury Baypark Arena eventfinda.co.nz

2. Waihi Beach Art & Craft Fair

10am-3.30pm, Waihi Beach Community Centre, Beach Rd, Waihi Beach

Dreams - The Fleetwood Mac Experience

8-11.30pm, Waihi Beach RSA

Door sales only

Otumoetai Rotary Car Boot Sale

7.30am-11am, Otumoetai College, 105 Windsor Rd, Bellevue, Tauranga

5–6. Fresh Moves 2024

7pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

7. Mount Maunganui Meditation

7-8.30pm, May St Scout Hall, 13 May St, Mt Maunganui

Bad Schematics

7-9.30pm, The Jam Factory, The Historic Village, theincubator.co.nz

@ourplacemagazine

9. Band Together 3pm, Totara St, Mt Maunganui, totara.flicket.co.nz

The Little Big Markets - Tauranga 9am-2pm, The Strand, Tauranga Waterfront

Gian Marco Ciampa (Classical guitarist) 3-5pm, The Jam Factory, The Historic Village theincubator.co.nz

Ninja Kints - Yarnbombers Social Gathering

9.30-11.30am, The Incubator Creative Hub, The Historic Village, Koha on door

12. Politically Incorrect Comedy Night 7.30pm, The Hop House, 12 Wharf St, Tauranga eventfinda.co.nz

14. Mount Maunganui Meditation 7-8.30pm, May St Scout Hall, 13 May St, Mt Maunganui

The Nukes - Tyrone 7-9.30pm, The Jam Factory, The Historic Village, theincubator.co.nz

Standup Comedy at the Luxey 8pm, Luxe Cinema, 4 Golden Sands Dr, Papamoa, eventfinda.co.nz

15. Break Free From Stress and Burnout 1-5pm, Trinity Wharf Tauranga, eventfinda.co.nz

Graeme James

8-9.30pm, The Jam Factory, The Historic Village, theincubator.co.nz

21. Bay Of Plenty Smokefreerockquest Regional Final 7pm, Totara St, Mt Maunganui eventfinda.co.nz

22. Learn Dog with Dog Logic 11am-12.30pm, 16th Ave Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

26. MAUAO Always Beside You 7-8.50pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

27. We Rise - 10th Anniversary Tour

6.30pm & 7.30pm, Mercury Baypark Stadium Lounge, eventfinda.co.nz

Ngā Tohu Toi 2024

5.30-9.30pm, The Cargo Shed Tauranga ngatohutoi.co.nz

28. Enei & Jakes (Critical Music) - Tauranga 9pm-1am, Totara St, Mt Maunganui totara.flicket.co.nz

The Little Big Markets Matariki 9am-2pm, Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui

Re:Generate Fashion Market, Mount Maunganui 10am-2pm, Mount Maunganui Sports Centre Door sales only

29. The Little Big Markets Whangamata 9am-2pm, Williamson Park Whangamata

30. The Stars 11am & 3pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

July 2O24

3. Nurse Georgie Carroll: Sista Flo 2.0 8pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

Living Lightly - An evening of sustainable lifestyle inspiratione 7pm, Historic Village, event.humanitix.com

5. Mafia Casino' - Mid-Year Comedy Dinner Show

7-10pm, The Raft, 65 Chapel St, Tauranga eventfinda.co.nz

6. The Little Big Markets 9am-2pm, Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui

Junk 7-9.30pm, The Jam Factory, The Historic Village, theincubator.co.nz

The Doors Live 8-11pm, Totara St, Mt Maunganui totara.flicket.co.nz

7. Ninja Kints - Yarnbombers Social Gathering 6pm, Mt Maunganui Beach werunthenight.co.nz

5. Ninja Knits – Yarnbombers Social Gathering 9.30am, The Incubator Creative Hub, Tauranga, theincubator.co.nz/monthlygroups

7. Quiz Night – World's End 9.30-11.30am, The Incubator Creative Hub, The Historic Village, Koha on door

13. Fife Lane + Gibbston Valley Winemakers Dinner 5.30pm, Fife Lane 512 Maunganui Rd fifelane.co.nz

15. Badjelly the Witch Glow Show! 11am, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

16. 2024 Tauranga Sunny Side up Children's Film Festival 10am & 1pm, Graham Young Youth Theatre, Tauranga Boys' College, eventfinda.co.nz

19. Magic Men Australia - Featuring Will Parfitt 7.30pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

20. The Little Big Markets 9am-2pm, Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui

21. Thrifted Finds 9am-2pm, Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui

22. The World of Musicals in Concert 7.30pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

24. TJS Jazz Jam 6.30-9.30pm, Mount Social Club, 305 Maunganui Rd

A Taste of Ireland 7.30pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

26. Nirvana Tribute 7pm, Totara St, Mt Maunganui totara.flicket.co.nz

Creedence Clearwater Collective 7.30-9.45pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

26– Trust Horizon, Light up Whakatāne 4 Aug 5-9pm, Whakatāne

26– PRIMA FACIE - Written by Suzie Miller

28. 8pm, Baycourt Addison Theatre eventfinda.co.nz

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