Kia ora
We are thrilled to share with you our very first digital edit and what better one to kick off with than Christmas!
Thank you for being a part of the Rita Edited story and believing in our kaupapa and our sellers We are a marketplace that showcases and spotlights over 150 small businesses from all corners of the motu.
This Christmas (and always) we ask that you challenge your buyer behaviour and shop with intention Where possible support small We invite you to browse this edit over a cuppa, there is something for everyone.
Shop small
Shop local
Shop better Shop RITA
Meri Kirihimete
Jade
& Aleisha
Kūmara ginger crunch cheesecake
BY CHRISTALL LOWE
FOR THE CRUST
500g (2 packets) Gingernut biscuits
200g butter, melted
FOR THE FILLING
approx 2 medium orange kūmara (450g), to yield 2 cups cooked, mashed kūmara
250g cream cheese, softened
¾ cup plain Greek yoghurt
¼ cup icing sugar
1 tbsp orange zest
2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
FOR THE GINGER CARAMEL
1 cup icing sugar
75g butter, cubed
3 tbsp golden syrup
1 - 2 tsp ground ginger
METHOD:
To prepare the kūmara, peel and cube
2 large kūmara, and boil in a saucepan until tender Drain off the water, mash with a masher, transfer to a bowl and set aside to cool It’s important that the kūmara is not hot when making the cheesecake.
Prepare a 24cm springform pan by greasing the sides and lining the base with non-stick baking paper
Crush the gingernut biscuits until they resemble fine crumbs, either in a food processor, blender, or Nutribullet (a third at a time)
Put crushed mixture into a bowl, pour over the melted butter, and mix until combined.
Press the crumb mixture into the base and sides of the pan firmly and evenly by using your fingers, and then smoothing and compacting with the back of a spoon.
In a large mixing bowl and using an electric beater, beat together all of the filling ingredients until combined and smooth
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly into the crumb casing.
Make the ginger caramel by placing all of the ingredients into a small saucepan over a medium heat, heat until butter is melted and mixture is smooth, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon For a stickier sauce, let the mixture boil for one minute.
Pour the ginger caramel over the filling while still hot, then cover with cling film or tinfoil and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until ready to serve
You can also refrigerate the cheesecake for up to three days.
When the cheesecake is ready to serve, carefully remove from the baking tin and gently transfer to a serving plate Cut into slices and serve immediately with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, if desired.
Cooks note:
You can swap out the Gingernuts for other biscuits like plain wine, malt or caramel biscuits. Omit the ginger in the caramel, and you’ll have a kūmara butterscotch cheesecake instead
Christall Lowe is the author of Kai and the newly release Kai Feast.
Aermeda
If you are on a quest for a sustainable locally made gift this Christmas, Aermeda has the perfect something for everyone!
Created in Coastal Otago using traditional methods combined with modern values Their range of sustainable luxury skincare is thoughtfully conceived to enrich every self-care routine
Produced by hand in artisan size batches using natural ingredients, there’s something for everyone in their award winning product range Bonus - Dressed in locally designed and printed packaging (no plastic) you won’t need to wrap if you don’t want to!
The Green Collective
Since 2014 The Green Collective have focused on improving the daily use items you reach for everyday They were tired of using paper towels, bags and tissues that just ended up as landfill So, they researched and created a range of award winning, designer print products that ensure zero harm to you, your home & the planet
Introducing Organic Cottons, 100% plant based & repurposed waste homewares; HANK-ies and our SPRUCE compostable dishcloths and Unique Gift Cards. These simple small changes and easy swaps are perfect for any design and eco-conscious individual. Make a statement by upgrading to authentic, durable alternatives and enjoy using products that bring the joy back into your everyday tasks.
Kiki Seed Cracker Mix
Looking for a special something for your foodie friends, teacher gifts, stocking filler, Secret Santa, holiday host or just for yourself to enjoy this summer Kiki Seed Cracker Mix and condiment bowls will hit the spot every time!
Their award winning seed cracker mixes are the perfect foodie gift for summer entertaining and the holiday season Just add water & oil to make 2 full oven trays of delicious crunchy seed crackers to enjoy with family and friends Easy to take away on holiday or keep on hand in the pantry to whip up a batch of freshly baked crackers anytime And being plant based, gluten, dairy, and nut free, everyone can enjoy them For something really special, add in one or both of their gorgeous condiment bowls - the perfect platter addition and lasting gift
Whipped feta dip
BY SARAH OF KIKI SEED CRACKERS
This simple but super delicious dip is the perfect pairing with your Kiki seed crackers
Ingredients
200 grams feta, drained
2/3 cup Greek yogurt
1 lemon, zested
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, more as needed
Topping
2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
2 tbsp chopped parsley
2-3 tbsp toasted pine nuts
1-2 tbsp crushed pistachios
Chilli flakes, optional
Method
In the bowl of a large food processor fitted with a blade, combine the feta, Greek yogurt and lemon zest.
Blend, and while the processor is running, drizzle olive oil through the top opening, until the feta is whipped to a smooth mixture.
Transfer the whipped feta to a serving plate. With the back of your spoon, smooth the top of the feta, making an indentation in the middle (or a “well”) Pour a bit of olive oil all over the feta, then top with the Aleppo pepper, fresh herbs, nuts & chilli flakes
ENJOY!
Krystee Iris
Krystee-Iris has been fascinated by the process of working with fluid mediums such as Encaustic and Watercolours over the past 10 years Fluid mediums create spontaneous textures, forms and colours
These mediums organically invite the artist to a process of abstraction, to let go of control and remain open to the possibilities and suggestions that the media reveals A major source of inspiration comes from natural landscape: the colours, textures, how the land is formed
Each painting is an open-ended exploration, working with equal parts, spontaneity and careful analysis The result is a surface rich in colour and depth that invites the viewer to contemplate it’s complexity
Dear Ted
Dear Ted is a proud New Zealand brand that lovingly crafts timeless bears. Whether you ’ re looking for a gorgeous gift or brightening up your home,
Dear Ted Editions are lifelong companions suited to everyone Every Ted is knitted from a beautiful blend of New Zealand perino wool, creating a timeless, super soft & eco-friendly bear
Each Ted comes in a beautiful gift box making it perfect for the gifting season These bears are all hand finished meaning each is unique to the next Not sure how to say it? Start with Dear Ted
HOW TO MAKE: Foraged foliage garland
BY JANE SMITH FLORAL DESIGN
YOU WILL NEED:
Your choice of foliage (see recommended varieties) Secateurs and florist wire
TIPS:
- A foraged Garland is an easy way to be zero waste You can even skip the wire and use twine to connect your garland so it is 100% compostable as well
- Yes it will dry out. You cannot do anything about that Don’t make it more than 2 weeks in advance
-You can also add in bits and pieces such as small pinecones, berries and fairy lights.
RECOMMENDED VARIETIES:
Conifer
Pine - all varieties
Baby Blue Gum
Needle Leaf Gum
Silver Dollar Gum
Bay Leaf
Rosemary
Olive
Japanese Maple Magnolia
Camelia
Start by cutting your foliage into smaller, easy to use pieces - bear in mind the intended purpose of your garland when doing this
Choose a nice piece for the start of your garland and set aside another to use for the end Knot the wire securely around the stem of your starting piece then take your next piece, or a couple bunched together if you want a fuller look, overlay it on your first piece but staggered back, so the second piece covers the stalk of the first piece, and wrap the wire around the stem again a few times
Continue this until you have your desired length. Once you ' re ready to finish it off, take the piece that you set aside earlier and face it the opposite direction so you have a nice looking end Then weave a few pieces in the same direction as the end piece to cover the last join.
When you ' re finished and your garland is in place you can check for any gaps or bare spots and weave in extra foliage pieces.
See Jane Smith on RITA EDITED here
INDI& WILD
Since the onset of INDI & WILD, their vision has been clear, to create homewares that not only decorate your spaces but also ignite your imagination and spark conversations Each piece in their collection is a testament to this vision – meticulously crafted, full of personality, and infused with creative spirit
INDI & WILD believe in the power of colour to uplift, inspire, and transform They cherish the beauty of imperfection, the allure of handmade craftsmanship, and the joy of surrounding themselves with pieces that reflect their unique personalities.
Shop on RITA EDITED here
Weekends at the beach
Weekends at the Beach is born from Sam’s love of bringing joyful colour & style into the everyday Always looking for new ways to elevate the ordinary & make life that bit more fabulous Sam handpaints candles, cards & art in her home studio by the beach in Paekākāriki & while patterns are repeated, the hand painted nature means that no two are exactly the same In a world obsessed with mass production, Weekends at the Beach’s signature style embraces the perfectly imperfect
The candles are designed to be mixed & matched to elevate any tablescape or mantelpiece into something that bit more special, it’s all about having fun with your style & bringing another layer of joy into your home
SELLER SPOTLIGHT
dea ethical clothing
Dreaming of creating clothes that would feel like a hug for sensitive skin no toxic chemicals, no irritants
Founder, Deanna knew there had to be a better way, teaming up with her friend Lynda, dea ethical clothing was born Together, they’ve crafted a line of organic, natural clothing using botanical plant dyes that are as kind to the planet as they are to your body From seed to stitch, there is care for our workers, our earth, and you feel peace of mind and vitality in our soft beautiful pieces. Photography by Florence Charvin.
. Shop on RITA EDITED here
Ira Ira
IraIra pour their hearts into every piece, driven by a love for crafting bedding that feels like an embrace Each thread carries their passion, each detail a reflection of the care they have for your comfort and the planet Designed in NZ, with nature as their muse, their linens are more than just bedding they’re a connection to home, warmth, and love
Designs are inspired by the beauty of nature, the landscapes of Aotearoa, & the timeless elegance found in simplicity IraIra believe that true luxury is rooted in nature's purity, with a focus on natural materials like linen that embody both comfort and sustainability Every detail is crafted to reflect this harmony, blending modern aesthetics with a soulful connection to nature, ensuring each design feels organic and enduring
SELLER
MAbbey erson Artist
Painting from her home studio in Hastings, New Zealand, Abbey’s art encapsulates her love of florals, landscapes and vibrant colours
For Abbey painting is a form of escapism, allowing her to make sense of the world and to re visit memorable moments of her childhood Although Abbey’s work continues to evolve as she explores the never ending world of colour, her art almost always begins with a foraged flower or a treasure gifted to her by a friend, before intuitively taking on a life of its own
Alongside her originals and prints, Abbey also has created a popular calendar and puzzle which makes a well recieved gift with wide appeal
Cam Barrett
Cam Barrett creates sculptural table lamps from 100% recycled PLA, a bioplastic made from renewable sources like corn and sugarcane. Each lamp design is carefully sculpted using advanced 3D software, then printed and assembled in his home studio. Cam sources his PLA from a local company that transforms post-industrial waste from food packaging and other recycled bioplastics into high-quality filament for 3D printing.
With a strong focus on sustainability and artistry, Cam expresses his passion for light and form through distinctive lighting solutions that bring both beauty and function to your space while promoting the circular economy
Tips for mental wellness over the festive season...
BY HANNAH FROM THIRTY ONE DAYS
Staying on top of your mental wellness during the busy holiday season is key to enjoying this special time
Here are a few tips to help:
Set boundaries
Avoid overcommitting by saying " no " to events or gatherings that could drain you. For example, limit your social engagements to just a few meaningful ones
Prioritise self-care
Don't forget to make time for yourself. This could be as simple as a morning walk, reading a book, or practicing meditation for 10 minutes each day
Stay active
Physical activity can help reduce stress A yoga session or a quick walk after meals can do wonders for your mood.
Practise gratitude
Focus on what you ’ re thankful for Keep a journal or share your thoughts with loved ones to stay grounded.
Mindful indulgence
Enjoy festive treats, but be mindful Balance indulgence with healthy meals to avoid burnout.
These small steps can help you thrive through the holiday rush!
See Thirty one days on RITA EDITED here
• MOEMOEĀ | OUR VISION •
We BELIEVE in creating the kind of world we want by consciously choosing what we buy and who we buy it from. We want to buy from people who create MAGIC within our little corner of the world and the people who dance in their kitchen when they get a sale
We are deeply connected to the values of conscious spending, quality over quantity, small scale over mass produced and above all else COMMUNITY OVER COMPETITION.
We are CURATING Rita Edited in a way that New Zealand hasn’t seen before. We will get out our cream pom poms and cheer for our small scale producers, makers, designers and artists. We want to give them a voice, a platform, a community and the opportunity to CONNECT + GROW
Sunny Folk
Sunny Folk make great quality, happy-as clothes for your wee folk. Designed in Aotearoa, NZ, they’re all about happy colours, hand-drawn quirky prints, and responsible production.
Sunny Folk clothes are made to last, crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton, and azofree dyes (safer for our minis and kinder to Mama Earth) They partner with sewers who share their values, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions
Shop on RITA EDITED here
Verdant Hues
Verdant Hues are luxury hand mulled watercolour paints Made in small batches, using nontoxic artist grade pigments to create smooth, highly pigmented watercolours
Set in individual ceramic pans, Verdant Hues bring a sense of gentle calmness to the painting process
A uniquely beautiful gift for both beginning and experienced artists.
Shop on RITA EDITED here
Whakapūpūtia
mai ō
mānuka kia kore ai e whati
Cluster the branches of the mānuka so they will not break. Together we are stronger.
We truly believe that together we are stronger Collective talents and stories breathe life into the goods that are offered on Rita. Together fighting the tide of the mass produced, we feel innately connected our values of conscious consumerism, supporting small and community over competition
MANAWA CREATIVE
Iconic, strong and enduring- the rau kawakawa | kawakawa leaf brooch is designed with the modern indigenous woman in mind
This versatile piece will quickly become a staple in your wardrobe Try placing on the lapel of a blazer, adding to a hat, or attach to a chain as a necklace Manawa Creative is the physical expression of the aroha & sisterhood that underpins the lifelong friendship between founders Lisa Awatere and George Manuel Shop on RITA EDITED here
LAUREN CALLENDER
Original landscape paintings by Gisborne based artist, Lauren Callender Her artwork draws inspiration from the vibrant play of light, lush hills, and wide skies that define the area Each piece features detailed textures and bold earthy colors, frequently highlighting local landmarks and native birds Furthermore, a collection of prints is available in three sizes, both framed and unframed, from 6 paintings that celebrate not only the East Coast but as far North as Cape Reinga Shop on RITA EDITED here
ARA STATIONERY
Ara Stationery are a proud pakihi Māori dedicated to authentically integrating te reo Māori and toi Māori into highquality stationery and lifestyle products.
Their offerings celebrate Māori culture while supporting personal and professional growth through beautifully designed everyday rauemi that inspire mindfulness and enhance your daily routines.
Shop on RITA EDITED here
STUDIO BEC
Nature serves as Bec’s primary inspiration, with a signature style characterized by calm moments, subtle detail, and restrained compositions Using multimedia techniques, such as combining watercolor paints, acrylic paints, and pan pastels, to create texture, ambiguity, and refinement
Alongside Bec’s original and prints you will find stunning cushions and sarongs in ner subtle tones of watercolour byStudio Bec
Shop on RITA EDITED here
NO ODD SOCKS
Inside their boxes, you will find five vibrant, playful patterns – two socks in each design, ten socks in total Match them up or mix them around; our socks are designed to work fabulously together.
Beautifully packaged, they’re the perfect gift for under the Christmas tree!
Shop on RITA EDITED here
MEG ROULSTON
Meg Roulston's gorgeous ceramic garlic-ginger grater is utterly giftable both practical and beautiful Perfect for lovers of handcrafted design, foodies, or the hard-to-buy-for Explore Meg's store for other thoughtful gifts, from bud vases to soap dishes, tumblers, and more.
Shop on RITA EDITED here
JUNI
Handmade beeswax candles crafted from locally sourced crude and refined beeswax The crude beeswax is carefully selected, washed, filtered and prepared by hand, and then gently infused with natural pigments. Each candle is unique in its shape, colour and burn pattern. Made for mindful moments and intentional burning.
Shop on RITA EDITED here
NUZ KNIVES
This Christmas, celebrate the heart of a Kiwi summer with Nuz Handmade in New Zealand, Nuz knives embody tradition, sustainability, and family gatherings Designed for life, from festive feasts to everyday moments, each blade honours their beautiful environment bringing craftsmanship, quality, and care to your table and beyond
Shop on RITA EDITED here
PAPER AND ASH
Introducing Paper and Ash’s brand new ‘Merry Everything’ Xmas Gift Wrapping Collection - with three beautifully curated options to choose from Each box set contains the ultimate collection of Xmas wrap, cards, gift tags, tissue paper, ribbon, twine and more
PS: Enter code: RITAXMAS to receive an exclusive surprise gift with purchase! Shop on RITA EDITED here
JILLIE
Jillie is a toy brand designed and created by Jillie in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay. Each item is handmade with love and designed to withstand years of love and play, now and for generations to come With a growing range of accessories there is everything a wee bunny could want or need From timy tutus, overalls to a sweet little suitcase with bedding or furniture
Shop on RITA EDITED here
JO WILSON
Every piece is handmade by Jo in her Havelock North studio. There is a beautiful handmade quality to her work that is sure to delight. Discover this sweet pair of fruit alongside pieces with kiwiana, birds and floral motifs
Jo’s pieces would make a well recieved and thoughtful gift or for something special for your own home Shop on RITA EDITED here
SCRUNCHED
Scrunched design bespoke scrunchies, headbands and bows using the hand-marbling technique, known as Ebru, creating intricate and colourful designs Each piece is hand-marbled onto upcycled fabric at the intersection of art, fashion and sustainability. With playful patterns and swirls, Scrunched won’t only hug your hair but also your imagination Shop on RITA EDITED here
LARGE
CERAMIC VASE KESHI PEARL HUGGIES GOLDEN THREAD ORIGINAL
LILY MAY CERAMICS JO GIBB DESIGN JOCELYN FRIIS ART
An eye catching piece that will last for decades to come
Sterling silver wire wrapped Keshi pearls A modern, classic look
Layer upon layer of hot beeswax combined with natural Damar treeresin for hardening
Handmade in Dunedin using 100% cotton fabric from Liberty of London PRICE : $195 PRICE : $49
: $280 PRICE : $105 PRICE : $28
AWAKE TEA QUILTED CASE
JO WILSON FLOREANA
Unique XOX ceramic set - large Hooks on the back ready to hang
WILD EARTH
100% organic loose leaf tea Ingredients: Withania, Lemon balm, Ginger, Liquorice
: $35
HOLT
Made from beautiful vegetable tanned leather Each wallet is hand cut and hand-stitched
: $199
CLASSIC WALLET SHARD CANDLE HOLDER WAVE STUDY
ARTEFACT INTERIOR ALANA CLARKE ART
We reckon this is the best darn one-third of a brick you’ll ever buy
: $70
SONS OF THE SOUTH
Somewhere southern 100% Merino tee Made in NZ 220gsm
: $120
Made to last from 3 2-4mm thick premium full grain vegetabletanned leather
: $75
A lovely small circular original wave/seascape painting in teal,blue and green
: $280
Winner of best shaving soap by the beauty shortlist 2024
: $30
For the little ones...
TANGAROA SWIM PŌTAE MY FEELINGS CARDS
MINI MIRO
Bucket hat style Tangaroa swim pōtae
LITTLE PEOPLE BIG EMOTIONS MR FOX
Make learning about feelings fun and interactive with the My Feelings cards
Watercolour printed on 200gsm art paper using Epson archival inks Assorted designs
responsibly
JILLIE
Kirihimete...
METAL WREATH CITRUS MARMALADE CELEBRATION RING
METAL METCALF
Christmas Daisy Wreath made from repurposed 44-gallon drums
PRESERVATION
Perfect to use in a glaze to add colour & flavour to the Christmas ham
: $14 95
POPPY AND SAGE
Handmade Celebration / Advent Spiral made from NZ Macrocarpa ADVENT CANDLE
: $140
WEEKENDS AT THE BEACH DRYED
Hand painted Advent Candle A beautiful new family ritual
Dehydrated Lemon slices, perfect for platters and beverages PRICE : $145
: $35
Eve is a delicious blend of spicy cinnamon bark, aromatic clove bud with bright orange zest
: $59
: $25
SEA SPRAY PRINT VASES & TUMBLERS WEEKLY PLANNER
STUDIO BEC
Abstract landscape, depicting the morning light at low tide
ONE OF A KIND CERAMICS ARA STATIONERY
6 colours and 5 sizes available A wonderful versatile gift idea
Get a comprehensive overview of your week with this weekly planner in Te reo Māori
: $25
A natural alternative to perfume with a stunning selection of scents to choose from
, RE-FRESH towels are perfect for the gym or sauna and are reversible
Each piece of pottery is handmade; no piece will be the same
Under $100....
HIATT & CO
Bringing edible goodness inside, your window sills just got a whole lot more fun
: $55
ASPEN AND FERN THIRTIEVES SKINCARE
French Flax Linen Napkins are a perfect addition to your indoor or outdoor dining area
: $79
Experience nourished and vibrant skin every day with Goldie Botanical Active Oil WALL HANGING
: $93
Handmade macrame wall hanging, crafted with knotting techniques and wooden beads
A set of three aromatherapy candles made with therapeutic essential oils
Versatile, practical and a beautiful piece for the kitchen and table
