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PLAY
20 The Bay's rugby revival
30 Sam Ruthe: Young history maker
34 The rise of running
40 BOP tech conquers the globe
44 Starbound: Space Dance Studio
48 Winter recipes
52 Foodie finds
55 Bay's best eats
57 Jess Easton: Booze-free brews
64 Te reo on stage
66 Tauranga Museum's Māori taonga
68 Sam Bicknell: The stick man
THRIVE
72 Fashion with Nicky Adams
76 Best in beauty
78 Cashmore Clinic: Profhilo explained
81 Shelley Pullar: Your hair insider
83 Dental Plus: High tech smiles
LIVE
86 Interiors: Rich and warm
90 Oliver Road Real Estate
94 MyStays comes to the Bay
97 The beauty of interior balance
98 Organic inspired décor
100 Gadget guide
101 No-waste Kate's tips for winter
WORK
104 Coombes Johnston's BMW pride
108 The business of fond farewells
110 Russell Packer talks mental health
111
First-home buyers beware
112 Radio personality Hayley Bath
115 Kind, firm, calm parenting
EXPLORE
118 Discover the wonderful Waikato 124 Bali bound
129 Magical winter destinations
130 Coco Trattoria's Kiwi-Italian flair
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DISTRIBUTOR Are Direct PUBLISHED BY SAO Media Limited
Winter has well and truly arrived. For many, that means slowing down and retreating indoors. But for others, it’s the perfect time to lean in, push harder and perform at their absolute best. In this issue, we’re celebrating those who do just that.
Karen Clarkson sits down with Tiana Ngawati-Anderson, former Black Ferns Sevens player, highperformance coach at the Adams Centre and now referee, to talk about the state of women’s rugby in the Bay. Despite the challenges, a committed community is backing our mana wāhine every step of the way.
We also acknowledge 15-year-old Tauranga running sensation Sam Ruthe, who’s charging ahead as the youngest
person in history to break the fourminute mile. Jamie Troughton follows his remarkable rise and the team helping him chase greatness.
Karl Puschmann speaks with Adam El-Agez, founder of The Conqueror app, whose big idea turned into an $80 million global business. And we catch up with the powerhouse couple behind Space Studio, as they prepare to represent on the world stage at the international World of Dance Competition, with their sights set on being crowned the best hip hop dance studio on the planet.
There’s no shortage of sheer talent in this town, and we’re proud to share just a few of the stories that prove it.
Happy reading!
Hayley, editor
Tiana Ngawati-Anderson gets glammed up for our shoot at the Adams Centre for High Performance in Mount Maunganui.
Meet some of the talented creatives behind the Winter 2025 issue of UNO
Hayley Bath
With a career in radio and media as the daytime show announcer for The Hits, Hayley is now bringing her on-air energy to the pages of UNO After studying radio in Tauranga nine years ago, she has returned to the Bay and feels fortunate to broadcast from one of the most beautiful places in the country. As a mum of three little ones, a serial house renovator, and with a keen eye for design, she's excited to be a contributor. “Contributing to UNO is a fun way to build new skills and explore the things I love, like lifestyle, people, stories, creativity and design.”
Natalie Dawson
Formally a graphic designer, Natalie took the leap to pursue her other passion: make-up artistry, where she gets to enhance natural beauty and help people feel their best. Working across weddings, fashion, commercial and corporate projects, Natalie loves being surrounded by other creatives, bouncing around ideas, sharing inspiration and bringing unique skills together. “I really enjoyed working on UNO ’s Winter covershoot,” says Natalie. “It gave me the chance to work alongside a talented team, contribute my artistry and be part of a shared creative vision.”
Hannah Mahon
Hannah Mahon is a graphic designer from Tauranga, now living in Sydney. With a background in communication design and a love for editorial, she’s spent the past few years designing magazines across Aotearoa. Working on UNO has been a special way to stay connected to home by celebrating local stories, people and places through beautiful design. When she’s not behind a screen, you’ll likely find her playing with animals, watching a footy match or chasing the perfect soy matcha.
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Threads of hope
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3. Errol Brain, Wayne Wright 4. Sarah Gordon, Helen Fletcher, Helen Watson, Tracy Brain 5. Sammy Rawstorn, Brad Barrow, Georgie Connolly 6. Christine Dawson, Jes Gordon 7. Rosie Blockley, Tina Jones 8. Carly Stewart, Lisa McFetridge
9. Leigh Stevens, Leanne Rich 10. Robyn Brewer, Ryan Shrives, Shirley Fearns 11. Jamee Taylor, Christine Dawson, Olive Rich 12. Tracy Murphy, Lynley Milward 13. Sally Weston, Paul James, Nichola James 14. Sally Morrison, Matt O’Brien 15. Helen Fletcher, Maddy Whitfield, Kathrine McDonald 16. Tracy Biddle, Jason Benton, Amber Miller 17. Colleen Carey, Sofie Aschwanden, Jess Mortimer 18. Georgie Connolly, Lynette Lochhead
FONT Tauranga Public
Art Trust
At an event at Cooney Lees Morgan’s office, Font revealed Mount Maunganui's Paul Darragh will create the Tauranga Public Art Trust's second contemporary artwork.
PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN 1. Susan Christie, Lisa Denyer, Trish Galvin 2. Les Roa, Kathryn Lellman, Sonya Korohina, Pam Roa 3. Steve Johnston, Brenda Johnston, Kevin Schuler
4. Duane Moyle, Paul Darragh, Karl Chitham, Julie Paama-Pengelly, Craig McClure
5. Fi Sullivan, Bernadette Ryan-Hopkins, Cushla Bullen, Keri Welham 6. Anne Pankhurst, Simone Anderson 7. Fi Sullivan, Buddy Mikaere 8. Lynette Fisher, Hannah Wynn
9. Paul Darragh, Julie Paama-Pengelly 10. Peata Larkin, Stephen Hahn 11. Lucy Bleakley, Ciska Vogelzang, Paul Darragh, Lynley McDonald, Georgina Milne 12. Susan Christie, Lisa Denyer, Trish Galvin 13. Ngairo Eruera, Bill Holland, Vanessa Hamm, Barbara Dempsey 14. Buddy Mikaere, Arohanoa Mathews, Mel Katu, Caryn Rawlinson 15. Fran Manning, Jess Bicknell, Ash Stephens 16. Peter Glausiuss, Jennifer Glausiuss, Keri Welham
The
Chodge
This documentary, filmed by Graeme Murray about an award-winning home, premiered in Tauranga recently. It follows the journey of The Chodge, a unique private holiday home in South Waikato.
PHOTOS SALINA GALVIN 1. Cameron Glasgow, Tegan Church, Courtney Walker, Harry Church, Darryl Church, Lee-Ann Church, Cristina Dunerin (front row, Enzo Church, Lucas Church) 2. Vittoria Nevin, Sahana Jones 3. Darryl Church, Lee-Ann Church 4. Yvonne Piebenga, Kim Wright, Gina Donelley 5. Melanie Short, Paul Laing, Susie Brown 6. Kraig Steiner, Kim Wright, Michael Steiner 7. Brendon Kenny, Justine Crampton 8. Paul Whittaker and Marlene Hudson 9. Kat MacMillan, Mat MacMillan 10. Wayne Clarke, Hunter Clarke, Tania Clarke, Tyla Clarke 11. Ann Gregor, Graeme Murray
Flavours of Success: Women Who Inspire
An inspiring bunch of women gathered for a delicious lunch, networking and powerful talks from Kelli Brett and Kat Dippie - in collaboration with Flavours of Plenty, Business Women's Network and Fife Lane.
Western Bay Women’s Fund
The Western Bay Women’s Fund hosted an Anniversary Long Lunch on May 17. The event celebrated the Fund's achievements over the past year, with all proceeds from ticket sales and raffles going towards the Western Bay of Plenty Women’s Fund.
PHOTOS SCOTT MARTIN
1. Christie McGregor, Keryn Jarvis, Frances Mole, Hayley Nelson 2. Blank Canvas Catering 3. Melissa Conrad, Jen Scoular (Deputy Mayor of TCC)
3. Rhea Clune, Raewyn Peck 4. Tracy Hampton, Debbie Green 5. Rae Baker, Carrie Brown, Suzelle Lockhart, Bridget Jenkins 6. Sue Mac Dougall, Jackie Mckenna, Kerri Fabish 7. Gaynor Prideon, Jacqui Keene, Julie Clayton, Louise Mckee
The long game
Women and girls rugby in the Bay of Plenty is growing fast, but behind the progress are real challenges, and a community working hard to bridge the gaps. Karen Clarkson talks with powerhouse referee and women’s rugby advocate Tiana Ngawati-Anderson, uncovering the grassroots movement reigniting the spirit of the women’s game.
WORDS KAREN CLARKSON
PHOTOS GRAEME MURRAY
HAIR + MAKE-UP NATALIE DAWSON
In rugby-mad Aotearoa, the Bay of Plenty is often seen as a quiet achiever. It’s a region steeped in generations of club tradition, burgeoning talent and the unmistakable buzz of communities gathering on the sidelines every weekend. But behind the booming registrations in women and girls’ rugby lies a story of fractured pathways, trailblazer community leaders, and a collective call to return to the grassroots.
At first glance, the numbers are promising. Women and girls rugby participation has grown steadily, with club-level growth for teenage girls at 39 percent and a 13 percent increase among 5-12-year-olds playing tackle. But the surface tells only part of the story. Dig deeper and the challenges quickly emerge: drop-off rates at age 14, disconnection between the secondary school and club rugby systems, and the gap between community and professional rugby widening by the season.
“Some of the most powerful change is happening at the grassroots level,” says Tiana Ngawati-Anderson, former Black Ferns Sevens player and international
referee. “It’s people with vision, stepping up and doing what needs to be done.”
Fresh from refereeing the World Rugby Sevens Championships in Los Angeles, Tiana is living proof that the game can take you places you never imagined.
A former Black Ferns Sevens player, now a top-level referee, coach and high-performance leader, her rugby journey began with an unexpected pivot. “I was on a solid pathway to becoming a Silver Fern,” she says.
“But when I didn’t make the Auckland under-17 netball team, I thought: right, I’m going to play rugby.”
Raised by a touch rugby-loving whānau, Tiana (Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Whakaue) had known the oval ball her whole life, but like many young girls, netball seemed the obvious choice. “The moment I stepped onto the rugby field, it just clicked.” That instinctive switch lit a fire that’s fuelled more than two decades at the heart of New Zealand women’s rugby.
From captaining teams and representing her country, to coaching secondary schools and mentoring young referees, Tiana now has a hand in shaping the future of the game she loves. And she’s not doing it alone.
She points to local female rugby legends like Renee Wickliffe and Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, who started
In camp, Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens enjoy a fun run against each other during a training camp before the Dubai 7s series 2012 at Blake Park, now the home of NZ Sevens.
2018 TECT Sevens Nationals at Wharepai, Tauranga Domain - Tiana's last tournament representing Auckland before retiring at the end of 2018.
Rippa-Rugby Skills workshop session with BOPRU Community Activators
Volcanix vs Auckland FPC at Wharepai, Tauranga Domain, 2024. Although a loss for Volcanix (24-29), it highlighted the immense growth of the semi-professional women's programme in the regional team.
a girls’ team at Arataki Rugby Club when no competition existed for their age group. “So they played the boys, and won. Now they’ve got two girls’ teams and even fundraised to travel to Christchurch for a national girls' festival. That’s what leadership looks like.”
Another changemaker is Victoria Grant, former Hurricanes Poua head coach. “She found out only two Tauranga teams went to a Waikato tournament, so she created her own under-11s competition at Rotoiti, and nine teams turned up,” says Tiana. “They’re creating opportunities so their daughters can come through with real game experience, not just talent.”
Reconnecting the pathway
Back in 2018, Tiana moved to the Bay of Plenty with her husband, who joined the Black Ferns Sevens as a strength and conditioning coach. She was close to retirement, juggling training and parenting their daughter, when a gym conversation changed her direction. “Someone asked me if I would consider being a referee and I said ‘hell no’. But it planted a seed.”
By 2019, she had made the New Zealand referees squad and officiated her first Sevens nationals in Tauranga. Since then, she’s gone on to referee the Farah Palmer Cup final, be nominated for Referee of the Year, and become the second woman ever to officiate a men’s NPC match.
At the same time, she was also stepping into leadership, taking on the role of general manager for high performance at Bay of Plenty Rugby Union. There, she saw firsthand how disconnected the women's pathway had become from the community.
“The academy (Athlete Development Programme), had been established to guide amateur players into a professional environment and we were trying to build depth in the Volcanix team, but we realised we had to go back to where it all starts, which is the clubs.”
She leaned on her own experience coming through a strong development system in Auckland. “The truth is,
the system wasn’t working for girls here,” she says candidly. “There’s so much raw talent, but too many girls were leaving the game. No smooth transitions through the age groups, no defined pathway through secondary school.”
Tiana eventually stepped away from the GM role to refocus on what mattered most. “I remember thinking, we’ve got to go back to boosting and investing in community rugby. We want more girls playing rugby and staying in the game.”
The cup that counts
While teaching at Te Whare Kura o Mauao, she took the reins of the school’s rugby programme and pushed her team to compete in the open grade.
“In our first year, we made the final. The girls didn’t realise how good they were. But eligibility rules blocked us from going to Nationals. So I turned to coaching the Western Bay U18 girls. That year, we won the Youth Development Cup.”
That cup, she says, is the only talent identification tournament for girls’ rugby in the region. “You see the talent on the fields every weekend, you know, that one, and that one… they’re Black Ferns in the making. But then what? There’s no New Zealand U18 or U20 women’s team. The pathway just stops.”
BOPRU’s newly launched U16 and U18 girls’ league, beginning this season, is a direct response to that gap. It offers girls their first true 15s competition, which is crucial for developing real game experience before reaching rep level.
Playing for the mana of the jersey
Tiana credits much of her success to early mentors like Anna Richards and Hannah Porter, who shaped the game with vision and heart. Now, alongside people like Brendon McKeown (community rugby manager), Ryan Setefano (women and girls pathway manager), and Jess Walrond (women and girls participation manager), she’s part of a movement to restore pride and purpose to the club jersey.
“I remember thinking, we’ve got to go back to boosting and investing in community rugby. We want more girls playing rugby and staying in the game.”
“Back in the day,” she reflects, “all you wanted was to wear the Bay of Plenty jersey. That was it. The battles between Eastern, Western and Central Bay – that can be our Super Rugby.”
Brendon and the BOPRU team have continued her work since she stepped back to focus on refereeing and coaching. Together, they’ve launched a five-year strategy, a new province-wide competition, and created dedicated roles to drive participation and retention.
“There’s a vision and commitment at union level to create a sustainable framework to increase participation and keep girls playing through safe, supportive transitions,” says Brendon.
“We want girls to thrive through every stage of rugby. Because they need to love the game, to stay in the game. From rippa rugby to secondary schools, into club rugby and beyond. To feel that same pride of pulling on their club jersey, knowing they’re part of something bigger.”
And that honour runs deep. “I referee down in Te Paroa, Whakatāne, and that’s where I enjoy the game most,” says Tiana. “Because of the people. That’s where rugby lives. It’s not about deals or contracts or being one of the few percent that make it to the black jersey. It’s about whakapapa.”
Beyond performance
Tiana sees both sides of the game – elite and grassroots – but she’s clear-eyed about where the energy needs to return. “Rugby’s in trouble right now. Too much emphasis is on Super Rugby. The potential is massive in this region – there’s so much raw talent here – but we need to come back to the hāpori (community) because that’s where the passion is.”
“Her dream? A purpose-built high-performance centre for
“The potential is massive in this region – there’s so much raw talent here –but we need to come back to the h āpori (community) because that’s where the passion is.”
women in the Bay of Plenty. “That would be the ultimate. A home for women’s rugby. Somewhere the girls and women can thrive, not just on the field, but as leaders and changemakers, as wāhine.”
She’s also watching the future unfold close to home. “My eldest is nine now and starting to play rugby,” she says, her voice softening. “And I’m hopeful she’ll be part of a generation of women players who are thriving at every stage of their rugby journey.”
What’s emerging in the Bay of Plenty is more than a rugby revival. It’s a movement led by wāhine toa, parents, coaches, and club legends, with the support of a rugby union who now have a clear strategy to shape pathways for the next generation of female rugby players. These people believe that rugby is still, at its heart, a game of belonging. A game that teaches values, builds character and connects generations. And if these community leaders have anything to say about it, the girls coming through today won’t just play rugby, they’ll inherit the full weight and honour of what it means to represent.
When food, culture and creativity collide to make our region the place to be.
Challenge accepted
The BOP fitness app conquering the world
PAGE 40
Comfort food
Janine Tait’s recipes for beating the winter blah
PAGE 68
Starbound
Space dance studio is set for take off
PAGE 44
PAGE 48 Sam Bicknell’s serious beats
All for one, run for all
Sam Ruthe hit the headlines after a phenomenal summer of running, becoming the youngest in history to break the four-minute mile. Much of the talented Tauranga teen’s success, however, can be shared between his amazing support crew and a burgeoning squad of local runners pushing each other to great heights.
WORDS + PHOTOS
JAMIE TROUGHTON
They set off across the Tauranga Domain turf like a collective freight train; legs like pistons, a metronomic pounding, lungs puffing in time.
A 900m track winds around the outskirts of the reserve, if you stick to the grass and hug the treeline. It’s scenic and varied, with enough undulation to spread the load across tired muscles.
Out front is a rangy, fair-haired kid. Eyes locked, expression calm, a distinctive stride with minimal front lift seasoned observers reckon he’s got his dad’s gait and his mum’s flowing style.
But Sam Ruthe isn’t having things all his own way in this training set. He’s not so much a lone wolf as the leader of a pack, and this pack is surging, snapping and fighting around him.
Eventually, after six repeats of the 900m set, the pack stretches, lengthens and thins out. As Ruthe’s rhythm increases, his times decrease.
The 16-year-old’s running form isn’t so much relentless as irrepressible. He finishes alone, unflustered and focused.
But this story isn’t just about the breakout schoolboy star. Behind him, that pack is far from defeated. Young and old, they’re all getting faster and, in doing so, creating a very special training environment.
“You don't have to worry about pacing or going easy or going hard — you just have to worry about sticking with the group,” 14-year-old Daniel Addidle explains. “It’s like you can turn your brain off a bit. I really like that.”
The diminutive Aquinas College athlete joined coach Craig Kirkwood’s squad of runners late last year. He’d been training at the Domain by himself, then sitting in the stands watching the likes of Ruthe, Olympian Sam Tanner and seasoned schoolboy runners George Wyllie and Ronan Dickson blaze past.
Eventually, he plucked up the courage and asked to join in.
“I liked that they were a little bit older than me and if I managed to get on their level, I'd be a step ahead of my own competition. I just want to be the best that I can be.”
In Tauranga, thanks to squads like Kirkwood’s, running is becoming cool.
Just ask another 14-year-old, Mackenzie Hetherington, who joined the squad soon after her good mate Ruthe’s younger sister Daisy was deemed old enough by her parents to start training.
“I just like being with the crew it gets a bit boring running by yourself and it’s nice to have friends to run with,” Hetherington said. “It gives us a healthy mindset you do your reps when you need to and then we can switch off, talking while we warm down.”
It doesn’t matter if you’re an Olympian, a national champion or a young flyer at the start of their running career, the same work ethic pervades the group.
Kirkwood’s crew is a fully-fledged, functional team, here for the running, the laughs and the camaraderie, in equal measures.
“It wouldn’t be enjoyable if we all took it too seriously,” Ruthe explains. “Everyone can have a bad day but the fact we all have so much fun means that it doesn’t matter if we’re not feeling great or working through an injury. We are all pretty focused when we are doing reps but there is always a bit of banter going on.”
Philosophy or fluke? Planned or stumbled on? It’s clear Kirkwood’s canny coaching instincts are not only producing world-class athletes but also instilling a genuine love for what they do.
“I liked that they were a little bit older than me and if I managed to get on their level, I’d be a step ahead of my own competition. I just want to be the best that I can be.”
– Daniel Addidle
Opposite Page: Tauranga running prodigy Sam Ruthe blazes past fellow squad member Adisen Mahy during a Saturday morning session.
This page: A 13-year-old Sam Ruthe, in his last year at Otūmoetai Intermediate, poses with his then-hero and nowtraining partner Sam Tanner after winning the AIMS Games cross country title.
His runners aren’t afraid to fail, which means that before they even line up, it’s guaranteed they’ll succeed.
“I’m not the kind of person to tell them off for anything,” Kirkwood, a former Commonwealth Games marathon runner, muses. “If they don’t show up to training one day, I’m not going to berate them for not being here. My job as a coach is to help them be better, rather than telling them off for doing things wrong, and that flows into the rest of the squad and they pick up on that.”
When Sam Ruthe captured the attention of the running world in March, becoming the first 15-year-old on the planet to run a sub-four minute mile, one of his heroes was alongside and one of his good mates had the best seat in the house.
The hero was Tanner, another Tauranga product, who has been to two Olympic Games and has emerged as New Zealand’s best middle-distance runner.
Three years ago, as a 13-year-old from Ō t ū moetai Intermediate, Ruthe was standing next to Tanner at Tauranga’s Waipuna Park, having just won the
Tauranga's running talent is being recognised, with Craigs Investment Partners coming on board as a squad sponsor.
now the kids are coming through.”
All the talk at the time was of how Tanner had won the same title nine years before, and whether Ruthe could one day emulate his achievements.
That day has come quicker than anyone – parent, coach or athlete – could ever have anticipated. Earlier this year, Ruthe and Tanner created history in Dunedin by sharing the New Zealand senior men’s 1500m title in a 3min 44.31sec dead heat. Ruthe is the youngest ever winner of the title.
Less than a fortnight later, Tanner was again right beside Ruthe, pacing him at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium as the teenager clocked an incredible 3:58.35 for the mile.
“I didn’t realise at the time but breaking that record means that I can now get into races I never thought I could before and getting into fast races is what helps you keep getting faster,” Ruthe says.
But the life-changing nature of that race didn’t stop with him. In fourth place, tucked in behind Tanner, Ruthe and Manawat ū ’s Ben Wall, was another
That’s opened a number of doors for Wyllie, in his final year at Tauranga Boys’ College, including winning an athletic scholarship to the University of Colorado.
“Races like that are once in a lifetime,” Wyllie said. “As a squad, we really just believe in ourselves – we do really well at setting a goal and then manifesting it and basically talking about it until it’s reality. It’s just a really positive environment we have created – I can’t remember the last training I went to and didn’t laugh at least three times.”
Craig Kirkwood knows exactly what it means to be part of a fun run squad.
After his 2002 Commonwealth Games appearance and his 13th place finish in the Chicago Marathon, he picked a perfect time to settle in Tauranga.
“I moved into the Ō t ū moetai area and within a 1km radius, we had six or seven guys who were all very good nationallevel runners. It was a cool little bubble to run with, do workouts with and just hang out with. We all became friends and
It just happened that two of those gun runners in the neighbourhood were Wellington-raised middle distance star Ben Ruthe, and his new wife Jess, daughter of running royalty Rosemary (Commonwealth Games gold medallist for Scotland) and Trevor (marathon champion) Wright.
When their kids Sam and Daisy eventually – and not unexpectedly –started showing promise, Ben and Jess wisely resisted letting them begin formal training until they were at least 13, to prevent burnout and promote a more mature approach to their running.
It’s meant that Sam, for one, is certainly taking success in his stride, safe in the knowledge he and his mates are in the best space possible for their development.
“All of us really look forward to Craig’s sessions and there’s always a good vibe. We’re really lucky that some of our friends from around the country come and stay here and join in our sessions too – we all know it’s something special he has created.”
“As a squad, we really just believe in ourselves – we do really well at setting a goal and then manifesting it and basically talking about it until it’s reality.”
– George Wyllie
Year Eight boys’ cross country title at the Zespri AIMS Games.
Kirkwood squad member, George Wyllie, who set a personal best of 4mins 3.80secs.
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Finding your stride
Turns out there’s more to running than just putting on sneakers and hitting the pavement. Whether you’re 25 or 65, staying injury-free, fueling right and building strength are key to making it stick. We talk to the experts and the everyday runners who prove it’s never too late to get out there.
WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT
No matter how you feel about running, one thing is clear: it's everywhere. These days, it seems like everyone you know is diving into a training plan, whether they're chasing their first 5K finish line or grinding through the ks in preparation for a marathon. Running, it appears, is enjoying a major moment.
So what’s behind running’s sudden glow-up? Is it finally time to rescue your sneakers from the back of the closet and join the stampede of Lycra-clad converts?
Or is this just another fleeting wellness craze, destined to vanish like kale chips and the Atkins diet? And let’s be honest, can anyone actually start running after 40 without something falling off?
Running the numbers
The numbers suggest running as a hobby is more than a passing trend. In 2024, the Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga City to Surf Fun Run/Walk drew over 2,000 participants across its various distances. Helping fuel this momentum are local running communities like the Mount Maunganui Runners & Walkers Club. Founded in 1987, the club has long offered a supportive space for runners of all levels, with regular
training sessions and social runs that make it easy, and fun, to get moving.
“I think the idea that a running club is only for elite or ‘good’ runners is being challenged and more people are realising that anyone can get out and run,” says president of the club Clare Watkins.
“People are also looking to make connections with others and a running club is an easy way to meet new people and make new friends. There are not many sports where you can participate and still chat to your friends!”
Clare says around 70 percent of the group would be over the age of 40, with the oldest members being in their seventies.
NUTRITION & PERFORMANCE
Guiding you to feel stronger, train smarter, and recover faster.
From weekend warriors to competitive athletes, adolescents through to masters, I work to improve your health and performance using evidence based science, put into practical advice.
SPECIALISING IN:
• SPORTS NUTRITION
• PERFORMANCE GAINS
• TEENAGE FUELLING
• MENSTRUAL HEALTH
• BONE HEALTH
• GUT HEALTH
• INJURY MANAGEMENT
• BODY COMPOSITION CHANGES
Registered (Sports) Nutritionist
Online or in person at the Adams Centre for High Performance, Mount Maunganui.
Phoebe de Jong Nutritionist (NZNS) BPhEd, PGDipHealSc. RM p 022 065 2951
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The art of impact
So what do we need to think about when starting a running routine later in life, when we’re not quite as flexible and agile as we used to be?
Emma Sievwright, a podiatrist at Body Mechanix in Tauranga, says, when done with care, running is very beneficial at any age – there’s just a few things to think about first.
“Running improves cardiovascular health, bone density, mental wellbeing and metabolic function,” explains Emma. “From a podiatrist’s view, running can strengthen foot and ankle structures if approached gradually and with the right support.”
That “right support” often starts at your feet. Alison from Smiths Sports Shoes agrees: “Wearing the correct footwear is very important if you want to enjoy your runs and stay injury-free.”
She advises seeking a professional assessment. “Getting a barefoot gait analysis, preferably a video while running and at a sports shoe shop that specialises in fitting sports shoes, can help you find the right shoes for your foot type.”
Emma adds that most running injuries stem from overuse, poor biomechanics, or inappropriate footwear.
That’s a message echoed by Alison, who says many runners make simple but costly
mistakes when buying shoes: “People often assume their normal shoe size is the same in running shoes, or they buy what's trendy rather than what fits. You should be able to splay your toes and have at least a finger-width from your longest toe to the front of the shoe.”
Different surfaces also demand different shoes. “Road shoes are generally for smooth hard surfaces,” Alison explains, “whereas trail shoes with more grip are better for muddy or slippery terrain.”
So yes – the type of shoe matters more than you might think.
Aside from choosing the right shoes, Emma says it’s easy to avoid injury by following a few preventative steps.
“Build gradually by increasing your distance and intensity slowly. Aim for no more than a 10 percent increase per week. Warm up and cool down properly to support muscle and tendon health, and work on strength and mobility, especially around the ankles, hips and core.
“Most importantly, listen to your body. Don't ignore early warning signs like persistent soreness or changes in your running pattern.”
Run smart, eat smarter
While throwing yourself into an intense running routine is not the best idea, neither is ignoring your nutrition.
“Running improves cardiovascular health, bone density, mental wellbeing and metabolic function.”
“Poor nutrition can impair tissue repair, energy levels and bone health, increasing the risk of overuse injuries,” says Emma. “Runners who under-fuel are at greater risk of stress fractures, muscle fatigue and slow recovery. Adequate intake of protein, calcium, Vitamin D and overall calories is crucial, especially for female runners or those with restrictive diets.”
Phoebe de Jong, a nutritionist from Fend in Mount Maunganui, stresses that nutrition is fundamental when it comes to running, not only to avoid injury, but also to retain muscle.
“If you’re over 50 and you like to run, you absolutely do not need to stop running,” explains Phoebe. “Running is good for your bones, it's good for your mental health and for those who are part of a run club, that is often their social contact for the week. It's their social circle and how they make their friends. It can be a lifeline for some people. But any runner over the age of 35 should look at doing strength training alongside it, such as functional movements with or without weights, to support their running and protect their muscle mass.”
Because runners expend a lot of energy, when we’re not taking in enough nutrition our bodies can naturally start to use muscle for fuel, especially as we age.
“I see a lot of clients in their 50s who are
just burning their muscle for energy,” says Phoebe. “A balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats fuels the body for optimal performance. Hydration is equally important as dehydration can impair endurance and recovery. Consuming easily digestible carbohydrates, like a banana or an energy gel, during the run can help maintain blood sugar levels. Post-run, it's vital to replenish glycogen stores with a combination of carbs and protein.”
Phoebe says it’s important to be wary of fad diets or trends such as ketogenic diets or anything too low carb.
“As you start to run a bit more then it’s worth considering using a carbohydrate rich snack before your run (carbohydrate is the main fuel we use to run) and then a combination of a carbohydrate and protein snack. For example, go for greek yoghurt with oat cereal and fruit or eggs on toast after your run so that you’re replacing those carbohydrate stores ready for your next session, and providing protein to repair and build muscles.”
As runs or events become longer, the specifics of nutrition become more important to maintain performance and health. Even sugar – long
demonised in wellness circles – has its time and place.
But no matter who you are, you might be surprised to know that sugar is not off limits. In fact, it can be very beneficial.
“A lot of runners are surprised to hear sugar being recommended in their diet,” says Phoebe. “But during training or competition, it’s often the most effective source of fuel. This is because sugar is an easily digestible source of carbohydrate to keep stores topped up, so pace can be maintained. Sports drinks, gels, fruit leathers, are all suitable options and they all contain sugar. We are then able to get all our other important nutrients in a balanced and healthy diet around our training.”
When you combine this kind of nutritional support with proper training, good technique and the right footwear, you're setting yourself up for long-term success.
Whether you're jogging around the block or prepping for your first half-marathon, one thing is clear: running is here to stay. And with the right support – on your feet, in your diet, and in your community –it can be something that truly goes the distance.
Running fuel 101
Top nutrition tips from Phoebe de Jong at Fend Health.
What should runners eat to fuel performance and aid recovery?
Carbohydrates are key. They’re the body’s preferred energy source and stored as glycogen in muscles and the liver. Many runners underestimate how much they need. Aim to include carbs before, during (for runs over 60-90 minutes), and within 30 minutes after your run. Pair carbs with protein post-run to help repair muscles.
Does nutrition change depending on distance or intensity?
Yes. Longer runs and hard sessions (like intervals or hills) burn through glycogen quickly. If your run is over 60-90 minutes, start practising with mid-run fueling like gels or sports drinks.
Is carb loading worth it?
For long runs or races over 90 minutes, yes. Eating more carbohydrates in the 24 to 48 hours before can delay fatigue and improve performance by 2 to 3 percent. Stick to lower-fibre, refined carbs (like rice, pasta, bread) and test your strategy before race day.
What can you do when struggling with gut issues on long runs?
Train your gut like you train your legs. Start with small amounts of food or liquid carbs before and during runs, and increase gradually. Choose low-fibre options like white bread with honey or fruit juice.
Should runners use supplements?
A food-first approach is best. But supplements like iron (especially for female runners), vitamin D, protein and creatine can be useful when needed. Sports fuels (gels, drinks) are also beneficial for long runs.
One last myth buster?
Sugar does have a place in performance nutrition! Around training, quick sugars (like in gels or sports drinks) can help maintain energy levels and performance.
Pacing the planet
The overnight success of fitness app The Conqueror’s Challenge took more than a decade to take off. Co-founder and Bay local Adam El-Agez explains how a treadmill, a paper map and a big idea became an $80 million fitness empire.
WORDS KARL PUSCHMANN
One afternoon, Adam El-Agez’s ex-wife stepped off their treadmill, fetched a paper map of New Zealand, and pinned it to the wall in front of the machine. Then she got back on and kept running. When she finished, she checked her distance and marked it on the map, determined to “run” the length of Aotearoa without ever leaving the house.
Intrigued, Adam joined in.
A former PE teacher, he loved the motivation the challenge gave him as he clocked up kilometres and made his way across the motu. But there was one part that constantly bugged him.
“We had a notebook and a calculator, and every time we went for a run on the treadmill, we’d put a line on the map. I found it clunky. I’m not good with pen and paper,” he laughs. “I was like, ‘There must be an app for this.’”
The Conqueror co-founder Adam El-Agez.
Surprisingly, there wasn’t. Adam searched online forums and discussion groups, but all he found were people like him, using pen and paper to track their running journeys. That’s when the P ā p ā moa entrepreneur realised his running app idea had legs.
“In my early 20’s I left teaching and went down an entrepreneurial pathway,” he says. Over two decades, he reckons he’s started around a dozen different companies, picking up skills in everything from online marketing to coding along the way.
“People call me a generalist. I’ve got no specialist skills, but a lot of knowledge and ability at a low level. I thought the app might be something I could build, so I just went off and built it.”
That app was The Conqueror Challenges, a fitness goal-setting app that’s now one of the world’s most downloaded exercise apps, generating a staggering $80 million per year. At its core, it’s a digital implementation of marking progress on a paper map.
“If I went for a 5km run, on the app I would advance down the length of New Zealand by 5km,” he explains.
While The Conqueror Challenges (TCC) stays true to Adam’s original, lo-fi concept, its popularity is because it makes fitness fun by gamifying exercise with a range of virtual challenges designed to keep you motivated.
Sure, you could run the length of Aotearoa, but you could just as easily cycle the Inca Trail, or even follow Frodo’s The Lord of the Rings footsteps and walk from The Shire to Mordor.
Along the way, users get virtual postcards packed with trivia, but the real prize is, funnily enough, a real prize. After crossing the finish line, you get sent a desirable physical medal to mark the accomplishment.
“The medals have become a bit collectible,” a chuffed Adam says.
The app’s popularity hasn’t gone unnoticed either. In 2025, The Conqueror Challenges won Best Digital Interactive Product at the Licensing
International Awards in Las Vegas for its Harry Potter Virtual Challenge series — beating out heavyweight finalists like Minecraft, Lego Duplo, Five Nights at Freddy’s and Roblox.
“We’re just a relatively small, scrappy crew — no big machine behind us — yet somehow we’re out here doing global
deals, delivering licensed products like clockwork, and getting high-fives for it. Honestly, it still blows my mind,” Adam says.
From the vantage point of 2025, it’s easy to assume TCC was an overnight success. That’s not the case. The journey began way back in 2012.
“It’s been a hell of a slog,” Adam admits.
For years, he poured time and money into the app with little to show for it, aside from losses, frustration, and false starts. The traction he was convinced existed never seemed to arrive. But he didn’t quit.
“I was almost too deep in it,” he says. “You can’t sell a failed fitness app. You just turn the servers off and give up.”
A chance meeting online changed everything when Adam connected with a Romanian strategist named Raul Vintila. Raul wasn’t the first marketing expert Adam had brought in, but he was the first to truly understand Adam’s vision.
“He smashed it,” Adam smiles.
Within a year, the app was out of the starting blocks. Adam was so impressed that he made Raul a co-founder, giving him half the company. Finally, the momentum Adam had believed in for so long had kicked in.
“The success happened super quick after a long, painful, hard, unsuccessful time,” Adam says.
Despite the success, “literally the culmination of 20 years of business experience”, it hasn’t stopped him from dreaming up his next move. As an entrepreneur, he can’t help it. His restless drive is part of why he loves the Bay.
“I’m a very active person, and living here allows me to have that amazing quality of life, which helps, when you’re an ‘always-on’ entrepreneur,” he says, listing surfing, fishing, and mountain biking as some of his hobbies. Which lately, he’s had more time to engage with.
“Entrepreneurs don’t belong in mature businesses. I think they’re bad for it unless they bring a strong set of skills to the table. I don’t, so I stepped down as CEO. It’s been great! I’ve been doing heaps of hobbies, travel and spending time with family.”
After years of hardcore hustle, the break has been welcome.
“I’ve enjoyed my time, but I know I need to move into something else.” Then, like a true entrepreneur, he grins and says, “I’m just not sure what that is yet.”
THECONQUEROR.EVENTS
Rebranding the Bay
What makes a place truly unforgettable? Is it the golden beaches, the rolling hills, or the vibrant urban buzz? For Our Tauranga Region, the answer is something deeper. It’s in the stories of the people who live and work there. Now, in a bold move to express the essence of Tauranga and the Western Bay, the team is turning to the community to help define the region’s next big identity.
WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT
After years of watching Tauranga and the Western Bay grow in size and diversity, Our Tauranga Region has embarked on a journey to develop a new brand. In fact, it will be the first brand the region has ever adopted, and they want to make sure it’s one that genuinely reflects the spirit of those who call the Bay home.
“We’ve got this beautiful region, but the way we talk about it hasn’t caught up with who we are now,” explains Haydn Marriner, project lead at Our Tauranga Region. “We didn’t want to slap a logo on a postcard and call it a brand. It has to be a reflection of the people – our mana and values.”
Rather than relying solely on marketers or consultants, Our Tauranga Region is crowdsourcing the heart of the brand from its own community. They’re meeting with iwi, local businesses, artists, and residents to uncover what truly defines the region and its people. Nothing
has been decided yet; even the term 'Our Tauranga Region' is a temporary white label identity that will be retired once the new place brand has been delivered.
“Branding is no longer a top-down process,” says Marriner. “It’s about co-creation. We’re not just building something for the community. We’re building it with them.”
One of the key principles guiding the project is authenticity. Our Tauranga Region is working closely with tangata whenua to ensure the brand is grounded in te ao Māori and the unique cultural fabric of the region. As Marriner puts it, “You can’t tell the story of this place without starting with the people who have been here the longest.”
While culture and heritage are central, the brand also aims to represent the region’s evolving identity and its entrepreneurial energy, creative spirit, and laid-back lifestyle.
“It’s about co-creation. We’re not just building something for the community. We’re building it with them.”
The process has been anything but conventional. From community hui to online submissions, the brand development has become a dialogue, not a monologue. And it’s working.
“What’s been amazing is how much people care,” Marriner says. “There’s a sense of pride and ownership coming through in every conversation. Whether someone’s been here five minutes or five generations, they’ve got something to say about what makes this place special.”
The branding project is set to roll out over the next few months, with a visual identity and messaging platform expected later this year. But for Our Tauranga Region, the journey has already delivered its own reward, which is a stronger connection between the people and the place they call home.
“If we get this right, if we create something true to us, it'll resonate with locals, with visitors, with businesses – with everyone!” Marriner says. “Because it’s real.”
Have your say at: OURTAURANGAREGION.COM
Let’s talk about Tauranga!
Our Tauranga Region is an exciting project to create a new identity for our city and region. Our region deserves a place brand that captures our unique spirit and showcases what makes us special. This isn't just about a logo or a catch phrase; it's about telling our story to the world. We are moving into our next phase of engagement, and we need you! If you are a community group, business owner, sports club or just a group of mates that are passionate about our region, we would love to hear from you.
Scan the QR code and lets get the ball rolling. We will organise a catch up so you can share what you think makes our region such an amazing place to live, work and play.
For more information on our project please visit www.ourtaurangaregion.com
From Tauranga to the top
In just four short years, Tauranga’s hip hop dance studio Space has made a big splash on the international scene.
Founders Summer Tyson and Cameron Smith tell us they’re just getting started.
WORDS KARL PUSCHMANN PHOTOS NINAG PHOTOGRAPHY
Space Dance Studios may have only opened its doors five years ago, but time is running out. They only have 12 months left on the clock to hit their goal, Cameron Smith tells UNO. The goal is a simple one: become the best hip hop dance studio in the world.
Easy, right?
“There’s a Tall Poppy Syndrome in New Zealand, where it sounds super outrageous to say we want to be the best in the world,” Cameron says, before smiling and adding, “We’re currently third.”
After speaking with Cameron and partner Summer Tyson, their wildly ambitious target seems not just doable, but entirely feasible. They are determined and focused, they are putting the work in and then putting in some more work, and they are achingly close to hitting it.
“We’re proud, but not satisfied,” Cameron says. “There’s a deadline. It’s really important for us to cram and work hard to make things happen.”
Opening their own dance studio was their dream. When that became a reality, they simply added to the dream.
“It was like a script to a movie. Just boom! Let’s make this happen. We always say that it not working wasn’t an option,” Cameron says. “Failure was not an option. It’s the only thing in life that we do. It’s the only thing in life that we’re good at. It had to work. There was no way it couldn’t work.”
The pair worked hard to ensure Space launched successfully. They offered anybody who wanted to dance, regardless of skill or ability, free classes for an entire term, and worked seven days a week in the studio.
“When you’re building something from the ground up, it’s important,” Cameron says. “Summer and I love it. We weren’t looking at the clock or time watching, like, ‘Oh, it’s five o’clock, I’m off now’. We were doing it from a place of passion and a place of fire.”
“Failure was not an option. It’s the only thing in life that we do. It’s the only thing in life that we’re good at. It had to work. There was no way it couldn’t work.”
Their arrival didn’t go unnoticed. Their unorthodox approach influenced every decision. While everyone was zigging, they zagged.
“Everybody else’s studio was white, so we said, ‘let’s paint ours black’. Everybody else was doing exam work, we said, ‘let’s not do exam work, and run open classes’. Everybody was competing locally, we said, ‘No, we’re going to compete internationally’. We tried to do something that didn't follow that formula. It was either going to work or it wasn’t. But we were going to make sure it did.”
And it has. Last year’s third place at the World of Dance Competition was the greatest endorsement of their unique methods. Which also extends to their teaching.
“We do treat our dancers like athletes. From what they eat, to how they sleep, to their training regime. Some of these dancers are sometimes training up to 14 to 16 hours a day,” Cameron says.
“It is unbelievable for dancers who are sometimes aged 11 and 12. We’re super fortunate to have an incredible community of parents who support these kids. Their parents are the grounding and the roots of what makes these kids successful. It is very normal for Space to train until sometimes 2am. The next morning, they go to school at 9am, so it is a wild, wild, wild world that Space lives in.”
And while it is extremely full on, competition for one of the 40 spots on the Space Pro Team is fierce, with people flying from all over Aotearoa to audition. Needless to say, even getting into the team is gruelling.
“It’s a relentless audition. They come in and they train for a weekend, and we select the top 40 dancers.
This kind of training regime is simply what it takes to reach the international standard. At the Worlds, which can be considered the Olympics of dance, there are 53 countries, with over 100 teams and 500 dancers all competing in brutal knockout rounds. Just the document that tells you what the judges are looking for runs 200 pages. This provides the necessary context for their approach.
“We consider dancing a sport,” Summer says. “Someone’s got to win at the event and someone’s going to lose.”
“Our job is to pour gasoline on the fire,” Cameron adds. “These kids come in with this raw fire, and our job is to make it go crazy.”
The pair are straight-up in saying a place on the Pro Team isn’t for everyone. They tell hopefuls what’s in store and the physical and mental pressure involved.
“If people can survive a year in Space, they can survive a year anywhere,” Cameron grins. “We try to create an environment that pushes life skills, learning and that work ethic. We feel so grateful that people believe in what we do and trust us with their kids and with their growth. It’s a big responsibility to not just train good dancers but to train good humans as well. Dance is purely the form that we use to teach life skills.”
“We always say hard work always pays off, and that luck doesn’t exist to us. The hardest-working team will win.”
With only 12 months remaining for the pair to achieve their goal of winning the World’s, their international rivals better be working bloody hard. Because Summer and Cameron certainly are. And they have every intention of making sure the competition has their work cut out for them.
SPACESTUDIOS.CO.NZ
Space Dance Studios' founders Summer Tyson and Cameron Smith.
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Savour the balance
Delicious gluten-free, dairy-free recipes to balance blood sugar, boost your glow, and energise your body, created by holistic skin health expert
Janine Tait and chef Isaac Weston .
PHOTOS TASH MITCHELL FROM TASTEFULLY STUDIOS
Beetroot and boysenberry cupcakes
This recipe can be used to make a dozen cupcakes, with a rich, chocolaty taste and a touch of sweetness from the boysenberries. Note: You can replace the boysenberries with any other berry but avoid strawberries if you have irritated skin.
MAKES 12
PREP TIME 10 MINUTES
COOKING TIME 25 MINUTES
Gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup allulose or monk fruit with erythritol (white granulated version)
2 cups almond flour (not almond meal)
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 cup cacao or cocoa powder
1 cup beetroot, grated
½ cup boysenberries, fresh or frozen (defrosted)
½ cup coconut oil, melted
4 eggs, room temperature
METHOD
Preheat your oven to 160°C.
Grease 12-cup muffin tin.
Add all the ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth.
For cupcakes, bake for 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Allow the cupcakes to cool before removing them from the tins. Serve with a dollop of coconut yoghurt and fresh or defrosted berries.
Everyday loaf
This loaf is the closest I have tasted to a wheat-based bread. It has the lightest texture and mildest taste of all the options in this book. Just keep in mind that it may take a little longer than most to toast, so adjust your toaster settings accordingly. You will need scales for this recipe.
MAKES 1 loaf | PREP TIME 10 MINUTES | COOKING TIME 40-50 minutes | GF, DF, RSF
INGREDIENTS
100g ground golden flaxseed/ linseed (grind 1 cup of whole seeds in a spice grinder if needed)*
1 cup almond flour
½ tsp fine texture salt
3 tbsp soya flour**
2 tsp of baking powder
2 tbsp olive oil
150ml water
4 medium-sized eggs
*Pre-ground brown flaxseeds are a convenient alternative to grinding the golden flaxseeds, though they will alter the colour of the loaf.
**Soya flour (also known as soy flour) is commonly available in Asian food stores.
METHOD
Preheat your oven to 180°C.
If you aren’t using a silicone tin, grease or line a loaf tin.
In a bowl, blend the olive oil, water and eggs together using a whisk or stick blender until well combined.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until fully combined. Leave the mixture to stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
Pour the mixture into the loaf tin. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until risen. Please note that this bread doesn’t brown very much. Check with a skewer to see if cooked. Leave to cool on the bench before removing from the tin.
Once completely cooled, you can slice the bread and freeze it for an easy toast alternative.
Konjac noodle chicken broth
Noodles are a common blood glucose-spiking food, so finding a delicious alternative like konjac noodles is a real win. Konjac is a root vegetable that grows in many parts of Asia and is high in fibre, making it great for gut health. A 2013 study even suggests that konjac can reduce acne and improve skin health.
SERVES 4 | PREP TIME 10 MINUTES | COOKING TIME 1 HOUR 15 MINUTES | GF, DF, RSF
INGREDIENTS
1 large onion, peeled and chopped into chunks
4 cloves of garlic, peeled
2 whole star anise
5cm knob of fresh ginger, sliced into chunks (skin can be left on)
1½ tbsp salt
12 cups cold water
1.3kg whole chicken
1 pack (400g) of konjac noodles
Garnish: Spring onions, chopped Coriander or other fresh herbs
METHOD
Place the water, chicken, onion, garlic, star anise, ginger and salt into a large pot (about 25cm wide x 15cm deep), ensuring the water covers the chicken. Bring to a boil, then allow a rolling boil for 25 minutes with the lid on.
After 25 minutes, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 50 minutes, with the lid on, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken from the broth and shred the meat, setting it aside. Strain the broth into a separate pot
and discard the onions, garlic, ginger, and star anise.
Remove the konjac noodles from their packet and rinse under cold water for 1 minute (or follow the instructions on the packet).
Divide the noodles between bowls and pour the hot broth over the top. Add the shredded chicken and garnish with spring onions and fresh herbs.
The leftover broth and chicken can be frozen together (without the noodles) for future use, or stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Spiced hot chocolate
A warming and aromatic drink, perfect for a cosy moment. This latte is rich with spices and a healthy cacao kick.
INGREDIENTS
6 cardamom pods (seeds removed)
5 whole cloves
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp cacao or cocoa powder
2 tsp maca powder
1 tbsp monk fruit with erythritol (white sugar version) or allulose
1 cup almond or soy milk
1 cup water
SERVES 2 PREP TIME 5 MINUTES GF, DF, RSF, Vegan
METHOD
Remove the seeds from the cardamom pods. Use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to grind the cardamom seeds and cloves into a powder.
Place all the ingredients, including the ground spices, into a pot.
Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly. Take care not to let it boil.
Pour into mugs and serve warm.
Extracted from Flatten Your Curve by Janine Tait RRP$65. Published by Bestow Beauty.
Foodie finds
Discover the newest eats and coolest treats.
Kiwi chardonnay reigns supreme
Marlborough just made a serious mark on the global wine scene. Isabel Estate’s Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2022 has been crowned Wine of the Year at the prestigious London Wine Competition, beating out top contenders from more than 50 countries. Now in its eighth year, the London Wine Competition is one of the UK’s most respected wine awards, judged by a prestigious panel of master sommeliers, top buyers, and industry insiders. Isabel Estate’s triumph is not just a win for the winery, it’s a proud moment for New Zealand winemaking on the world stage. RRP$39.99.
Smart and Sneeki
Tired of full lunchboxes and fussy eaters? Sneekico might be your new best friend. This clever Kiwi baking mix brand sneaks fruit and veg into kid-approved snacks like muffins, bars, and pancakes. No refined sugar and no stress. Sneekico is redefining healthy convenience for real-life families. RRP $15.95.
Bite-sized brilliance
From sweet cravings to elegant entertaining, Swirls are perfect for baking and dessert recipes, a quick snack fix or a playful lunchbox surprise for the kids. Use them to elevate your cheese platter or melt into rich, velvety hot chocolate. Mindful of both flavour and the planet, Swirls come in home-compostable packaging, so you can indulge sustainably. RRP$16.
Stir up your break
Coffee and chocolate lovers, rejoice. NESCAFÉ and KitKat have teamed up to launch NESCAFÉ Mocha inspired by KitKat – a frothy, single-serve blending NESCAFÉ’s signature smooth coffee with the rich chocolate and wafer taste of KitKat. Ideal for an indulgent moment anytime, anywhere. Find it now at Woolworths, New World, The Warehouse, and PAK’nSAVE (North Island). RRP$8.40 for 8 sachets.
Shnack attack
Shnack is New Zealand’s first dairy-free protein shake in a can, designed for busy days and onthe-go moments. With 17 grams of plant-based protein and no unnecessary additives, it’s a practical way to stay full and fuelled without the sugar crash. Whether it’s post-workout or mid-meeting, Shnack fits easily into your day and your bag. RRP$19.99 for a four pack.
Signature still
wines
from
& sparkling
Rotorua's Artisan Winery, The Barn
Celebrate the Sparkle of Life with Sparkling White Diamond
Introducing White Diamond — New Zealand’s only Niagara and Chardonnay blended sparkling wine. Handcrafted at our artisan winery in Rotorua, this signature cuvée is light, vibrant, and elegantly crisp, with a whisper of sweetness that captures the essence of summer in every sip. From weddings and milestone celebrations to spontaneous toasts with friends, White Diamond transforms every moment into a memory. Now available in charming mini 200ml bottles — Perfect for gifting. Perfect for celebrating.
Winter warmers
The top secret food experiences you need to know about.
WORDS STACEY JONES
It feels like winter has truly set in now – grey skies, chilly nights, the same old dinner on repeat. But fear not, you don’t have to wander far to warm your cockles. Here are our food columnist Stacey Jones' top-secret foodie experiences in the Bay of Plenty that’ll light up your winter with a fantastic food adventure.
Mid-Winter Gin-Mas
June–August
Matahui Distillery is warming our cockles this winter with their Mid-Winter Gin-mas workshop, where you’ll have the chance to make your own custom gin using mid-winter Christmas botanicals. At $95 per head (roughly the cost of a decent shop-bought bottle), it’s the steal of the season. Paul Horak, Matahui’s master distiller, will guide you through small-batch botanicals (he even snagged New Zealand’s Best Botanical Spirit award). The distillery is located in Matahui, just 20 minutes from Tauranga. It's the perfect spot for a fun weekend away from the city.
To book, visit MATAHUIDISTILLERY.COM /GIN-LAB
Shuck Yeah!
June–October
Have you ever wanted to slurp an oyster moments after it left the water? Tio Ōhiwa’s twice-daily, 90-minute cruises across Ōhiwa Harbour make it possible at New Zealand’s only Māori-owned oyster farm. Your journey begins with a guided history of the estuary, winds past Ohakana Island and Tauwhare Pā, then drops anchor at Ōhiwa Oyster Farm. There you’ll learn to shuck, dress and serve your own oysters, tour the processing plant and walk away with a dozen (or more) of the freshest Ōhiwa oysters you’ll ever taste.
To book, visit OHIWAOYSTERS.COM and use code BOPEATS for 10% off.
Diggin' It
June-July
Truffle-hunting season (late May–July) is here and in the Bay of Plenty we are graced with some of New Zealand’s highest producing truffle farms. Trufflewood in Paengaroa invites you onto their farm to hunt Périgord truffles, famed on TVNZ’s Country Calendar and featured on plates at Amisfield and Ahi. Follow expert dog Simba as he leads you
through the orchard floor to unearth these rare gems. Once you’ve dug up your treasure, indulge in a guided tasting, including local cheese, butter, ice cream and more.
Visit BOPEATS.CO.NZ for tickets and use the code UNO10 for $10 off.
My Big Fat Greek Cooking Class
Thursdays, June–August 2025
Step inside Yiayia's Little Kitchen at Caterina Murphy's cosy Matatā home, perched opposite Whale Island on a tranquil rural property, and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Greek cooking class. Under her warm and welcoming guidance, you’ll learn to craft pipinghot moussaka layered with silky béchamel, hand-stretched pillowy pitas to fill with homemade hummus and tzatziki, and fold flaky filo for sweet baklava. Along the way, Caterina will share the stories behind each recipe, the traditions they spring from, and the love she pours into every dish. After cooking, sit down together to feast on your creations, savouring an experience you’ll be talking about long after the last bite.
Contact YIAYIASLITTLEKITCHEN@ GMAIL.COM for classes.
Diggin' It.
Yiayia's Little Kitchen.
Shuck Yeah!
• Exclusive Membership –Professional community with limited access.
• Peaceful Location – Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for focused downtime or meetings.
• Easy Parking – No circling the block — enjoy dedicated, stress-free car parking.
• Free Small Event Rooms –Host meetings or small events in our premium boardrooms at no extra cost.
• Connect & Network – Engage with like-minded members in a relaxed, high-caliber environment.
• Classy & Comfortable –A sophisticated space designed for both elegance and ease.
TO ENQUIRE TODAY
The talented tī lady
In another life, Amy Tihema-Madden would've been an expert winemaker but the Hamilton mother of four has spent the past five years perfecting the art of fermenting tea, and we are all better for it, as UNO columnist Jess Easton writes.
Amy Tihema-Madden never set out to create an award-winning, life-giving drink of deliciousness. All she wanted to do was to make herself better.
With post-natal depression, grief and anxiety darkening her horizon, soon after the birth of her fourth child and just before Covid-19, forming a company and learning the intricacies of running a business was the last thing on her mind.
Thanks to her kindly Chinese GP, who convinced her to go back to her people and find traditional Māori practices to heal, Amy (Te Aitanga a Mahaki, Te Whānau a Kai, Ngati Kohuru) found herself on a vastly different path.
Soon, she was deep in the forest, learning about rongoā and how nature's energy could heal.
Copious tears soaked fertile soil and Waikirikau fermented tea was born.
Amy soon found that the more she learned about the healing power of native plants, the more intuitive she became at combining them with herbs, leaves, fruits, barks and flowers. Fermenting them was a way to preserve their potency and bring probiotic benefits into play.
We've been using Waikirikau brews at our Kitchen Takeover events for the past couple of years and the likes of Hā Raumati – manuka-infused with cucumber, lime and juniper additions – pair fabulously with so many of our delicious courses. The spectacular ruby-coloured Ngā Taonga ā Papatūānuku is indeed a treasure, while Horopito Chai and Kawakawa Kaha are more recent offerings.
Booze-free is big business these days. For various health and social reasons, many people are looking for food-matched flavours and boutique brews that don't have the age-old after-effects. Non-alcoholic shrubs and tonics are becoming ever-more popular, while kombucha and other fermented offerings are flourishing.
But what we love most is that Amy hand-picks all her ingredients, using maramataka principles, and then caresses the flavours out of her produce in a small commercial kitchen in her Hamilton backyard.
Her small personal passion has indeed become a successful business, albeit one that is still boutique and hand-crafted.
And the most important ingredient in her arsenal remains her aroha, the care and the nurturing, which shines through in every mouthful
Jess Easton is a director and owner of Kitchen Takeover and Saint Wine Bar, complementing her career as a Tauranga-based lawyer.
“Booze-free is big business these days. For various health and social reasons, many people are looking for food-matched flavours and boutique brews that don't have the age-old after-effects.”
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The secret ingredient
Stacey Jones discovers a passionate foodie dedicated to creating authentic Greek experiences.
As UNO ’s food writer over the past three years, few experiences have been as memorable or heart-warming as Yiayia’s Little Kitchen. Tucked away down a gravel drive in Matatā, opposite Whale Island, Caterina Murphy’s home opens up a world of Greek-Cypriot flavours and traditions just waiting to be uncovered.
Caterina’s culinary journey took flight last year when she launched a small vegetarian catering business. “I’d worked in education all my life,” she recalls, “but my foodie dream was always simmering away in the background. So I asked for reduced hours at work and went for it.” The community’s response exceeded her wildest expectations. “People loved the plant-based menus and soon started asking about classes,” she laughs. “That’s when I knew Yiayia’s Little Kitchen was meant to be.”
Food, Caterina explains, is edible history. “I learnt alongside my mother,” she says. “Anyone can hand you a recipe, but what you don’t get is the story – the rituals, the history and the cultural bonds formed in the kitchen.”
On her mum’s side, her family roots trace back to Cyprus, where the cuisine marries Greek traditions with
Middle Eastern influences. “Lemons, pomegranates, ground coriander are the flavours that tell the story of our island,” she adds. She remembers the artichoke season in their garden as a ceremonial affair: each leaf dipped in olive oil and lemon juice, savoured one by one until only the heart remained.
Being part of the Flavours Of Plenty Festival with her Big Fat Greek Cypriot Feast in April was the turning point last year. Held at Awaponga Hall, her diners raved not only about the food but also about the stories woven through each dish. “I married a man who grows fresh vegetables for me,” she jokes. “Watching people discover plant-based Greek food was incredible, and by the end, everyone was begging for more events.”
Looking ahead, Caterina is planning her first cooking classes for the public, including a shakshuka master class – “it works for breakfast, brunch or a light dinner”. Another favourite will be filo pastry workshops alongside vegetarian Koupes inspired by childhood picnics in the Troodos mountains. Later this year, she’ll host “table of eight” long lunches: a meze feast at her home where no one leaves hungry.
If you’re after the next big secret foodie find in the Bay of Plenty, Yiayia’s Little Kitchen is it. And the secret ingredient, as Caterina will tell you, is simple: love.
YIAYIASLITTLEKITCHEN
Caterina Murphy
BACK STUDIO
- YOUR LOCAL CONTEMPORARY AND ABSTRACT ART EXPERIENCE
Step into Back Studio, the creative haven and home to resident artist Jacki Barklie. Here you’ll discover a gallery-style art experience where creativity thrives. This vibrant space hosts exhibitions, collaborative projects, and hands-on workshops, offering a unique destination for art lovers and design professionals alike.
Perfect for both residential and corporate spaces, Jacki’s diverse body of work ranges from bold contemporary statements to quietly luminous pieces. What’s most unique is the sheer size and scale of some of Jacki’s collections, with some pieces up to 5m in size. Jacki’s art is increasingly sought after by interior designers, architects, and boutique developers seeking original art that elevates their spaces and awakens the emotions.
For interior designers, Jacki offers an incentive program and exclusive private viewings - an intimate experience designed for you and your client, complete with bubbles when booked in advance.
For the art collector, experience your chosen artworks in your own space before you make your final decision through Jacki’s Home on Approval service, so you can ensure each piece is a perfect visual and energetic fit.
Solo exhibition "Surface Tension" runs for two weeks from October 24th
Bio
Jacki is a mixed-media artist driven by curiosity, constantly exploring materials, textures, and techniques to push creative boundaries. Her work explores themes of fragility, desire, and human connection.
Each piece is created to be felt as much as seen—art that evokes emotion and creates a sense of belonging. Whether in a private home or a corporate setting, Jacki’s work offers more than visual appeal—it’s an experience. From textiles to wall hangings, Jacki creates art that lives.
Artist
Between the lines
This season’s fresh book finds are hot off the press.
The Chemist
By AA Dand, HarperCollins Pharmacistturned-author AA
Dhand draws on his real-life experiences for this thriller set in the gritty underworld of Leeds. Local pharmacist Idris Khan dispenses methadone by day, but when a patient and former flame disappears, he’s pulled into a brutal drug war. Dark, clever and full of tension, The Chemist explores power, vulnerability and vengeance. Dhand, author of the DI Harry Virdee series (soon to be a BBC drama), delivers another explosive, authentic page-turner.
Conquer Your Imposter
By Alison Shamir, Simon & Schuster
More than 70 percent of people will experience Imposter Syndrome in their lives, yet a powerful new book is helping tackle it head on. Conquer Your Imposter™ by Alison Shamir, an expert in the field, provides a raw, research-backed guide for high achievers to reclaim their self-worth and silence their inner critic. Through personal experience and transformative tools, Alison empowers readers to stop feeling like a fraud and start embracing their success.
Carved In Blood
By Michael Bennett, Simon & Schuster
When Auckland detective Jaye Hamilton is gunned down during what should’ve been a quick stop for champagne, the shock is immediate and personal. Enter his ex-wife Hana Westerman, a former cop with sharp instincts and unfinished business. As the case spirals into gang territory and deeper cultural roots, Carved in Blood grips hard. Michael Bennett blends gritty crime with a strong sense of place and character. It’s smart, tense and soaked in emotional depth. Great winter reading for crime lovers.
The Phoenix Pencil Company
By Allison King, HarperCollins
Allison King’s The Phoenix Pencil Company is a captivating and original debut that follows Monica Tsai, a quiet coder who stumbles onto a forgotten piece of her family’s history. It leads back to a pencil factory in wartime Shanghai and a mysterious gift passed down through generations. With warmth and imagination, King weaves a story about memory, identity and the ties that bind us. Moving and beautifully written, it’s a novel that lingers long after the final page.
The Surf House
By Lucy Clarke, HarperCollins
Atmospheric and gripping, The Surf House plunges readers into the sunsoaked cliffs of Morocco
with a thrilling undercurrent of danger. Million-copy bestseller Laura Denton crafts a compelling tale where escape and secrecy collide. When Bea seeks refuge at a coastal retreat, she finds more than serenity – she uncovers a mystery tied to a missing woman. With evocative settings and heartpounding suspense, this destination thriller keeps you guessing until the final page. Perfect for fans of escapist fiction with a dark twist.
The Monster of Harrods
By Alison Kervin, HarperCollins
The Monster of Harrods is an exposé of Mohamed Al-Fayed’s alleged reign of terror behind the glittering façade of Harrods. Drawing on powerful survivor testimonies and new evidence, this book details decades of abuse, complicity and institutional failure. It’s a shocking account of power gone rogue, and the courage of those who finally broke the silence. A must-read that challenges us to confront the truth behind a beloved British institution and those who enabled its darkest secrets.
SHOP DOWNTOWN
Tauranga is home to a wide range of one-of-a-kind finds, meaning you don’t have to look far to find something special – there's something for everyone and every occasion, budget and style. There’s even some room for a little self care...
1. Nood
Nood offers design-led furniture and homewares that bring a sense of individuality to any space. With statement furniture pieces, unique home décor, and fresh seasonal drops featuring a hint of quirkiness, there’s always something new to discover. Pop in for a browse – a new object of desire is waiting. Elizabeth Street. NOOD.CO.NZ | @NOODNZ
2. White Silk Bridal
Every gown is designed and created by Nicky Sylvester in her atelier in the heart of Piccadilly Arcade. Using the finest fabrics and lace, and with a deep understanding of each bride’s vision, style and silhouette, she draws on 18 years of experience to bring dream gowns to life – a beautiful journey every woman deserves to experience. Piccadilly Arcade.
WHITESILKBRIDAL.COM
3. Peachy Boutique
Tauranga’s new happy place has arrived. Peachy Boutique has officially opened its doors, offering a dreamy selection of gifts, homeware and feel-good finds that are just as sweet as they sound. Whether it’s the perfect present, a home refresh or a “just because” treat, Peachy Boutique makes gifting effortless and oh-soaesthetic. Not local? The full Peachy experience is available online. With a focus on good vibes, beautiful things and making life a little more peachy, this boutique brings joy to every find. Devonport Road.
PEACHYBOUTIQUE.NZ
@PEACHYBOUTIQUE_NZ
4. Baywatch On Time
Discover the Bay’s only specialty watch store, locally owned by Julia and Harvey and proudly serving the community since 1997. The store offers an extensive range of men’s and women’s timepieces, backed by expert advice and a fully equipped on-site repair workshop. With decades of experience and a reputation for reliability, they are trusted specialists in watch sales and servicing – there’s hardly a watch they can’t fix. Devonport Road.
BAYWATCHONTIME.CO.NZ
5. Kilt
Step into KILT Tauranga and discover beautiful, New Zealand-made fashion designed exclusively for women. Proudly based in the Tauranga City Centre since 2009, KILT offers timeless, elegant and versatile pieces that inspire confidence and effortless style. The brand’s mission is simple: to help every KILTie feel amazing in clothing that’s affordable, locally made and kinder to the planet. With a belief that fashion should be cherished, not discarded, KILT designs pieces meant to become vintage, not waste. Visit the boutique and discover your new forever favourites. Devonport Road
KILTONLINE.CO.NZ
6. The Shoe Lounge
The Shoe Lounge is a standout destination for premium women’s footwear and accessories, offering a carefully curated collection of stylish, seasonal designs. Showcasing top New Zealand and European labels, including Bay of Plenty exclusives such as Ara and Gabor, the boutique delivers a unique blend of local and international flair. As an independent store, The Shoe Lounge is renowned for
its impeccable service and warm, personalised shopping experience that keeps customers returning. Visit in-store or explore the collection online anytime. Grey Street.
THESHOELOUNGE.NZ.
7. The Knife Shop
Renowned as one of New Zealand’s most iconic specialist stores, the KNIFE SHOP has been trusted by professional chefs, home cooks, outdoor adventurers and collectors since 2001. Featuring premium knives sourced from around the world, the store offers a carefully curated selection to suit every need and budget. What truly sets the KNIFE SHOP apart is its consultative approach – knives aren’t just sold, they’re expertly fitted to the individual, ensuring the perfect match for every hand and purpose. With on-site knife sharpening, expert advice and an unwavering commitment to quality and service, the KNIFE SHOP continues to lead the way in cutting-edge expertise. Visit in-store or explore the range online. Devonport Road.
KNIFESHOP.CO.NZ
8. The Rockshop
The Rockshop is Tauranga’s premier musical retail destination, offering an exciting environment filled with the brands musicians know and love, including Fender, Gibson, Zildjian, Roland, Moog and Mackie. Whether just starting out or well into their musical journey, musicians of all levels will find something to inspire. Staffed by a passionate team of experienced players, The Rockshop is dedicated to providing expert guidance and support every step of the way. Elizabeth Street.
ROCKSHOP.CO.NZ
Te reo rising
Reena Snook is bringing world-class, all–te reo Māori theatre to Tauranga, creating a bold new direction for Baycourt.
WORDS SUE HOFFART
PHOTOS TE POU THEATRE & THE DUST PALACE + DAVID COOPER
Work has become undeniably personal for Baycourt Community and Arts Centre manager Reena Snook.
Four years into her tenure, the drama school graduate and first year te reo Māori student is championing a production that combines a theatre and circus spectacle with dialogue entirely in te reo.
“This is something I wish a young me could have seen,” Reena says of the Te Tangi a Te Tūī performance being staged in Tauranga in August.
“One reviewer called it transformative, and I’m convinced that’s true. It’s an experience that really could be pivotal for a lot of the young people we’re bringing into our theatre.”
Baycourt will host the August 6 opening night of a tour that encompasses four other North Island centres. And Baycourt is also gifting tickets to all students attending a school-only performance on August 7.
“We want to remove as many financial barriers as possible because nothing should stand in the way of rangatahi experiencing world-class performers. This young audience will hear stories grounded in indigenous culture, they’ll hear te reo Māori on stage and that’s likely to feel powerful and personal to many. Perhaps they’ll see a pathway I couldn’t imagine at their age.”
When Te Tangi a Te Tūī had its Aotearoa premiere at Te Pou Theatre in Auckland last year, Reena was immediately determined to bring the production to Tauranga. A long-standing connection to two of the project’s key creators helped: Eve Gordon of
The Dust Palace and Tainui Tukiwaho of Te Pou Theatre attended drama school with Reena in Auckland.
The work also marks a strategic shift for Baycourt as the centre moves towards broadening and complementing its current programme offerings.
Reena acknowledges Baycourt’s “incredibly rich history” that’s achieved so much. But, she recognises some voices and stories haven’t been as visible as others.
“As a community arts centre, we need to take deliberate steps to bring people from all parts of the community onto the stage and into the audience,” she says.
Te Tangi a Te Tūī, which tells the story of the tui’s song and its evolution over the centuries, is a positive step in that direction.
“It’s the first time we’ve been able to support a professional production performed fully in te reo Māori. I love the way this show honours our Pākehā audiences too, with the cirque theatre and universal story elements ensuring it’s accessible and understandable for everyone.
“There’s no tokenism here. We’re not just putting a Māori theatre production on stage to meet a diversity quota. One of the goals is to offer Pākehā a safe entry point into te ao Māori – something they can genuinely connect with and enjoy, without feeling like they’re being overwhelmed or excluded.”
Reena shares how she has spent much of her life distanced from her Ngāpuhi roots and how a deep sense of not belonging shapes some of her story.
“As someone of mixed heritage I often felt I wasn’t ‘brown enough’ to be Māori or ‘white enough’ to be Pākehā.
“That’s a tension that has informed my approach to programming and community engagement. I want to create spaces and experiences where people of all backgrounds and identities can feel recognised and valued.”
It was only after relocating from Auckland to Tauranga with husband Greg, in 2018, that Reena began closely examining her own identity. (She left a job as senior producer at performing arts platform, Auckland Live, to take up a Tauranga City Council events management position).
She speaks of an unexpected sense of connection with Tauranga mana whenua and how the warm welcome spurred her to begin tracing the threads of her whānau and whakapapa.
“It’s funny the further away I got from my tūrangawaewae in the Far North, the more I wanted to learn about my Māori whakapapa.”
Alongside her personal cultural awakening, Reena realised she missed the performing arts world and its creative people. So, when the Baycourt role came up in 2021, she pounced.
Presenting Te Tangi a Te Tūī will be a career high.
“For those who still doubt the calibre of Māori theatre, this production is set to challenge that perception entirely.”
“It’s special that Baycourt is the tour’s first stop and I’m proud our local rangatahi will see themselves reflected on stage. For some in our audience, this may also be their first visit to a traditional theatre.
“It’s critical Baycourt supports work like this, so that culturally powerful storytelling reaches the communities that need to see it most.”
BAYCOURT.CO.NZ
“This young audience will hear stories grounded in indigenous culture, they’ll hear te reo Māori on stage and that’s likely to feel powerful and personal to many. Perhaps they’ll see a pathway I couldn’t imagine at their age.”
ReenaSnook
A story of past and present
Dean Flavell is restoring Tauranga’s heritage by bringing taonga Māori home, one treasure at a time.
WORDS DEBBIE GRIFFITHS
For Dean Flavell, a decision in 2003 to accept the role of Poutiaki Māori for the Tauranga Heritage Collection was easy. He’d already recognised one of the taonga that would sit in the future Tauranga Museum as linked to his own ancestor, and wanted to ensure it was kept safe.
“We have the remnants of an ancestral meeting house called Tamapahore, which once stood at Karikari Point,” he says. “It belongs to Ngā Pōtiki and it hosted many renowned members of Māori society including King Mahuta, the third Māori King. It was heartbreaking to find the relic not properly cared for. There’s a better way to honour our ancestor and the skill that went into this carving.”
Dean has pieced together the story surrounding it, finding connections to our most turbulent time: the
New Zealand land battles at Gate Pā, Te Ranga and the bush campaign in the late 1800s. Tamapahore wharenui was an example of Māori meeting houses that emerged after the beginning of the Kīngitanga movement.
“Māori had a lot of their lands confiscated, but on what was retained they built larger houses to accommodate community gatherings,” he explains. “I imagine there were a lot of things that local Māori needed to discuss, so it was a place of coming together to contemplate the past and the future.”
It was in the tiny eastern Bay of Plenty community of Nukuhou that Dean was raised by his grandfather who spoke fluent Te Reo.
“Our road was gravel and there was one shop that sold saddles, clothing, milk, lollies, everything,” he recalls.
“Our elders would speak Māori amongst themselves and when we went to town they’d revert to English. I love that today the knowledge is broader. Even if it’s
Dean Flavell
Taonga Māori from the Tauranga Museum collection.
simply place names or greetings, it’s becoming normal to hear Te Reo and I have great talks with my Pakeha friends speaking Māori and English together.”
After a stint in the military, Dean learned traditional carving techniques, taking charge of the work on a wharenui in Whanganui when he was just 20. He launched his own carving school there and later worked as an educator at the local museum.
“I moved into curating and exhibition design overseas, including a time at Osaka in Japan, and then came back to New Zealand to a letter on my desk asking if I’d come to Tauranga to work on a new museum for the region.”
That was 24 years ago and for Dean it was an opportunity to locate artefacts around the world to help tell the story of Tauranga Moana.
“There are key taonga in other institutions,” says Dean. “In 1987 we started the work to find them and we’ve been creating relationships with the museums that have them. Some are in Wellington and Auckland and there’s a kite from the voyage of Captain Cook in the British Museum. It’s huge and quite unique. We know it’s safe and one of the thoughts is to replicate it in some way.”
For Dean, the Taonga Māori Collection is to keep safe the taonga tuku iho (treasures from the ancestors) that embody cultural stories, traditions and histories and an acknowledgement of the people who are no longer with us.
“Their stories live on and we get to share them with future generations through the new Tauranga Museum,” he smiles. “Good things take time. It’s been a long journey, but I’m really excited about where we’ve landed.”
Beat master
Meet Pā p ā moa’s Stan Bicknell – a world-class drummer, teacher, creator and total rhythm freak who has turned his skill into a way of life. He’s proud to admit his craft is his obsession, and if you’ve got sticks, he’s got something to teach you.
PHOTOS JESS BICKNELL + GRACESCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY
Bay of Plenty’s authorised repairer for:
Stan was one of just nine players selected from more than 6,200 worldwide to audition for Los Angeles rock legends PRIMUS – a band he’s idolised since he was 14. The call-up marks a serious career milestone for the 28-year drumming veteran known for his precision, discipline and obsession with pushing limits behind the kit.
How did you get into music?
I started drumming at 13. I’d been playing guitar for a couple of years, but my stepdad noticed I was always tapping and suggested I give drums a go.
The next day, I sat down at the school kit at Taup ō Intermediate and gave it a crack… and honestly, it did not click.
It wasn’t until about six months later that I picked the sticks up again and actually connected with it, and from that moment, I was hooked.
What do you love about drumming?
Honestly, I can’t say it any better than this – I’m absolutely obsessed. Even after 28 years behind the kit, I love it more than ever. I work on my craft daily and I’m constantly exploring new ways to push my playing forward. I’ve got a clear vision of the drummer I want to become in this lifetime, and every day is about chipping away at that.
Who/what influences and/or inspires you?
When it comes to drum influences, the list’s as long as my arm. Some old school greats like Buddy Rich, Tony Williams, and Vinnie Colaiuta. Some new school legends too, like Tomas Haake, Jon Theodore, Chris Coleman… just to name a few.
As for what inspires me? Everything.
Books, exercise, writing, time with mates, music, teaching – it all feeds the fire. I do my best to keep my mind and body fresh so I can show up fully, both on and off the kit.
Who are some of the well-known musicians you’ve played with in the past?
Here in NZ, I’ve played with Kimbra, Georgia Lines, Tiki Taane, Black Comet (with Laughton Kora) and Shapeshifter.
In Australia, The Bennie’s, Miami Horror, Tonight Alive, and Ecca Vandal.
In the US, Natasha Bedingfield and Watsky.
I was also recently invited to audition for LA-based alternative rock band PRIMUS. Out of 6,200 submissions, I was one of just nine drummers selected. An incredible experience, to say the least.
What has been your favourite gig so far?
If we’re talking gigs, I’d say my most recent one with Natasha Bedingfield stands out. It’s heavy in the pocket, which basically means tight, locked-in groove. I love that, but there’s also room
to stretch out and have some fun. She’s an absolute pro and a total pleasure to play with.
As for drumming experiences, getting invited out to Drumeo in Vancouver was huge. Jared Falk (the CEO) flew me over to film some courses and share my approach. That was a real milestone.
How did you get into teaching and what ages do you teach?
I’ve been teaching for 25 years (playing for 28), and it was a natural evolution as my skills grew.
Over the years, I’ve taught all levels and ages, but these days I mostly work with intermediate to advanced players – teachers, long-time band drummers, and experienced players looking to level up.
My focus is on the areas that really interest me: mechanics, technique and facility around the kit. I also place a big emphasis on looking after yourself off the drums, because it’s all connected.
What are your plans for the future?
About 18 months ago, I launched MasterMindDrummer.com – a platform where I offer drum courses and coaching programs to drummers all around the world. The concept is simple: develop the person alongside the player.
Right now, there are seven courses available, covering everything from Tuning and Mechanics to Single Kick, Chops and more.
The goal moving forward is to keep growing the site and the brand, while continuing to work on my own craft daily, sharing my journey, creating content and hopefully playing with more incredible international artists along the way.
STANBICKNELL
EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY
THRIVE
Look and feel the best version of you. Best in beauty Our winter picks PAGE 76 Shelley Pullar’s hair advice Embrace your curls! PAGE 81
Be per-sueded
An explosion of suede this season and well into next year makes this a top pick for a staple. Boots, bags, jackets, dresses suede gets top marks for versatility and its ability to aesthetically elevate an outfit. Unfortunately, it gets a low score for practicality. Beautiful on a dry day, no amount of protection spray will make suede a good all-weather choice, unless you’re prepared not to be too precious about wear and tear. There’s always an abundance of vintage and secondhand suede, and it can make good buying but pick carefully as suede is heavily tied to ’70s trends. I’ve recently started a love affair with mint as a colour choice; it works well paired with the on-trend wintery shades of brown and burgundy. It often only takes one really stand out piece in a shade to open your eyes to a tone you may not have previously considered. Mix in other sorbet shades to match with brown and burgundy they bring a freshness to an outfit and are a change from the standard crisp white that is often styled with these tones.
Low effort outfits
Florals are another way to add joy to your outfit. Rather than relegate this pattern solely to spring/summer, look at tonal shades and pair with chunkier boots. This will bring balance if you’ve layered with a chunky coat, as well as make you feel more seasonally dressed. Boxy blazers, wide leg trousers and of course lots of knits will be key items to keep you ticking on through the chilly days. If you want to add another jean trend to your barrel-leg style, then a cuffed hem (harking back to the early 2000s) has reemerged, and looks fabulous with flats, a sweater and a blazer. Pin stripes are here for winter and are always great when tailored; worn as separates it will be sleek office wear without being too corporate. A short sleeve fitted jumper feels way more snuggly than a shirt, and is also really versatile with wide leg pants, skirts or over silky slip dresses. A winter fail safe is a knitted midi dress, which manages to look good and feel comfortable at the same time.
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Blend the trend
Cold weather dressing can be a sartorial dilemma. As the chill and the drizzle set in, the urge to wrap up becomes hard to beat. Nevertheless, there are ways to feel cossetted and still be stylish. This is most likely why texture is such a huge part of a winter aesthetic; utilising material as a tactic becomes a way to pull the focus, allowing us to reign in cosy cashmere, soft mohair and merino for knits, along with boucle for tailoring and suede, leather, shearling and faux fur for outer wear. If you’re bundled in a big, oversized coat, then try and add structure with a sleek silhouette underneath. As a fabric choice it’s no surprise velvet is right at the top of the pile of must-haves. Thick and lustrous, its combination of sheen, inability to crease and look of luxe adds another visual layer, making it simply irresistible. While ice-blue, cornflower, periwinkle and cobalt are colours to tap into, another tone that we can definitely get ahead of here in New Zealand is cyan blue, after it was seen popping up all over this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
Shape shifting
Winter whites and pales shades are statement making; although when it comes to denim, a dark indigo colourway feels more seasonally intuitive. At this time of year trousers inevitably become a more important part of your wardrobe and crafted from a beautiful fabric – think satin or silk – can easily become the focal point of the whole outfit. Don’t be deterred from short dresses or skirt options though, with tights finally welcomed back into the fashion fold, hemlines above the knee have become way more appealing as a more do-able option. Opaque coloured tights are effective, and of course needn’t be restricted to black; when it comes to styling Northern hemisphere fashionistas have been leading the way wearing peep or open toes with their tights rather than the more traditional close toe.
Sole searching
Ditch the pain and discover shoes that love your feet as much as you love them.
With the adage ‘beauty is pain’ firmly entrenched, historically women have squished and squeezed, ignored their bunions, laughed in the face of corns and teetered impractically along with whichever footwear trend was the latest to hit the high-street. This attitude has been turned on its head. Now we prioritise comfort as much as style when it comes to what we put on our feet.
Of course, wearing sneakers with everything from suiting to formalwear is now de rigeur. Alongside the love of casual pumps, which has moved from just white to metallics and bright colours, a place has been found across all age groups and lifestyles for comfort in the form of Uggs, Birkenstock styles and Crocs. I once sat in the Victoria Beckham camp of “I would rather die” defiance at owning Crocs. However, having succumbed to the lure of this uber comfortable and practical option, I am a firm convert. After all, I reason that while Victoria can hold onto her principles, she more than likely doesn’t have to rush out the door on a school run or stand in damp grass hanging the washing on the line.
The need to competently go about our daily business in a surefooted manner means there will always be a requirement for the practical. However, there’s been a definite shift of the dial when it comes to event wear, and I for one am excited to see the interest in glam footwear surging once more. Along with the more foot friendly trends (think loafers, Mary Janes, platforms, wedges) there is an increased awareness around the combination of comfort and design for glamorous, elegant footwear.
Sole Bliss is a UK brand designed around bunions. The brainchild of shoe designer Lisa Kay, who, after suffering issues with her own feet, began creating a range
specifically for others with wide feet and bunions. Combining technology, input from podiatrists, hand crafting and years of design experience, her shoes now regularly adorn the feet of everyone from royalty to Hollywood A-listers; it seems even the likes of Helen Mirren and Julia Roberts appreciate their bunions catered for.
There is also a rising demand for occasion specific comfort a need recognised by American designer Sara Blakely (founder of Spanx), who has
brought Sneex to the market. Introduced to me by a friend who loves additional height to command the boardroom without sacrificing her mobility, I was wowed when I slipped them on my feet. It’s rare to be elevated to this height of heel and still feel as though you could march confidently through the streets. The ultimate hybrid of sneaker with a heel, they are pitched at everyone from businesswomen to brides. They do, however, come with a hefty price tag.
New Zealand shoe designers are by no means resting on their laurels. We have access to a multitude of amazing homegrown brands. To name a few: Katherine Wilson, Nicole Rebstock, and locally Chaos & Harmony. I’m a huge fan of all of these, and can vouch for the elevated comfort levels of a well-made shoe. I spoke to creative director of Chaos & Harmony, Becs Anderson, who told me, “Essentially, we come from a form and function basis, meeting needs from multiple angles. From a shoe perspective given it’s a thing that holds our whole body we not only want the style that it offers but we need it to have comfort so that we can wear them all day.”
Chaos & Harmony positions itself around the fact that a smart shoe adds to the style that you’re trying to create. However, as Becs points out, foot health is key. “You don’t need to be thinking about your shoes you want the footbed to be comfortable; equally, you don’t want there to be any friction points. Afterall, you don’t want your legs aching at the end of the day. It’s easy to make shoes look good, but can you make them comfortable? That’s more where the science comes in.”
This science is everything from folding rather than stitching, the pitch of the heel, the angle the ball of the foot is on, to the balance of a block heel. With the industry making strides like this, it’s no wonder we’re all looking to bench the trainers and slip back into a stunning pair of heels.
Whatever the weather
If you’ve longed for the day when a raincoat is repositioned as a fashion piece, then that day is here! Joining a swathe of other on trend jackets (utility, barn, cropped trench) the raincoat is finally having its moment. Used as a layering piece, these jackets look as good over a ballgown as they do on the rugby sidelines.
Fashion forecast
Energise your wardrobe for spring.
Spotted!
Polka dot is the print of the season. Big spots, small spots from dresses to jackets, even suiting, this pattern is well and truly cemented for the season. Reminiscent of the excess of the ’80s, it has been reimagined with less pizzazz and more elegance. Surprisingly versatile, depending on how it’s styled, one minute it feels traditional, the next it screams street style.
Check it out
Plaid for spring feels fresh when pieces are crafted from lighter fabrics. It’s also coming across in more elegant forms, with other features incorporated into designs; case in point the black bows at the shoulder of The Row’s Maxi Dress. Checked shirts will be a much-seen addition to outfit choices, with the ability to double as a light jacket.
Baggy trousers
The segue seems natural when you think about it wide leg to barrel to a combination of both in the form of a pantaloon (voluminous trousers gathered in with elastic or ribbon) and this easy-breezy style has more than a touch of boho about it. When paired on the runway with lacy tops there was a tendency to look a wee bit like Victorian underwear, but as with any trend it can be pared down and translate to your own wardrobe beautifully.
Chloe
Alaia
Burberry The Attico
Ralph Lauren
Carolina Herrera
Moschino
Winter chill
The latest beauty essentials for self-care this season.
Super powers
Marking an exciting first for New Zealand skincare, the Super Glow Vitamin C Range features powerhouse ingredient Astaxanthin, a super-antioxidant 6000 times more potent than regular Vitamin C. Both ingredients team up to brighten and even skin tone and reduce pigmentation. As the first affordable consumer skincare to harness this Astaxanthin, professional quality results are made accessible from the comfort of home. From RRP$12.99.
ESSANO.CO.NZ
Air we go
Now this is a handy little hair tool. Use as a straightener alone, or utilise the curved barrel for waves or curls that are set in place using precision air vents. This clever function enables the Air Styler to to be used on both dry or damp hair, with excess moisture channelled into the airflow as steam, styling and drying at the same time. RRP$119.99.
LADYJAYNE.COM.AU
Skin synergy
Improve the efficacy of red light therapy by choosing your skincare strategically. The NOON Aesthetics range is designed to work in tandem with your treatments, by enhancing cell repair and renewal, improving light penetration and absorption, boosting collagen production, and contributing to a range of other advantages for overall skin health and radiance. Available in store at Cashmore Clinic from RRP$99.
Oh Bois
Sleek and slay
Battling flyaways, frizz, baby hairs and/or coarse greys? Using too much product can end up backfiring, but luckily for us, a young Kiwi entrepreneur has come up with a solution. Slickd NZ wax sticks cater to all hair types, creating smooth, sleek styles using all-natural ingredients. Pair with their Boar Bristle Brushes for best results. From RRP$12. SLICKDNZ.COM
Designed for both men and women, Bois Pacifique is a light, fresh scent of earthy woods and invigorating spices. Think sandalwood, cedar and oakwood notes in an understated yet sophisticated olfactory blend. Available in 50ml and 100ml editions. From RRP$295.
DAVIDJONES.COM
Frizz fighter
Wet weather can wreak havoc on hair, but Umberto Giannini’s new hairspray has arrived just in time for winter. The ultra-lightweight spray absorbs instantly, providing protection and hold against drizzle so you can make a mad dash to the door without ruining your efforts. This multitasker also shields from heat damage when used before straightening or curling tresses. RRP$26.99.
FARMERS.CO.NZ
Let there be light
LED therapy can address a host of dermatological concerns such as acne, ageing, redness, pigmentation and scarring. The ‘light-emitting diode’ technology works by exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light to stimulate natural processes in the body. Some of the UNO team were lucky enough to try out two at-home LED masks. Here’s what they had to say:
Michele: “The Lightforce silicon mask is lightweight, comfortable and provides a lot of skin coverage with its close facial fit.
I love that it’s easily incorporated into my everyday routine, with only 10 minutes required daily (great in front of the tele!) to see results over time. This model has six modes, including yellow light for acne and near infrared for wound healing.” RRP$340.
INFRAREDLIGHTS.CO.NZ
Rebecca: “The Skinsmiths mask has a comfy head strap and chin rest within the silicon inner, and a classic RoboCop-looking exterior. I’ve easily incorporated it into my evening routine. I love that their skincare range provides the opportunity to create a regimen that’s tailored around enhancing LED benefits.”
SKINSMITHS.COM
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Glow naturally
Cashmore Clinic’s Leanne Cashmore explains how Profhilo is changing the game in skin rejuvenation.
PHOTO SALINA GALVAN + SUPPLIED
Lately, there's been a clear shift in what clients want from aesthetic treatments: subtle, natural-looking results that enhance rather than alter. Gone are the days of heavy fillers and overdone features.
Today, treatments like Profhilo, Profhilo Structura and Profhilo Body are leading a new wave of injectables that restore, rebuild and rehydrate the skin, without adding bulk. And the results speak for themselves. What sets Profhilo apart is its unique approach. Rather than sitting in the skin to add volume, it spreads beneath the surface to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The result? Improved tone, texture and elasticity from the inside out. Think of it as a wake-up call for your skin that keeps getting better over time.
Profhilo (face and neck)
This is where most of our clients begin. Profhilo is ideal for anyone noticing dullness, fine lines or that crepey texture, especially around the cheeks, jawline and neck. It delivers a natural, visible glow by restoring firmness and deeply hydrating the skin at a cellular level. Most people start to see results within a few weeks, with skin looking plumper, smoother and more luminous.
Profhilo Structura
The next step up. Profhilo Structura is an advanced rejuvenation treatment designed to restore facial structure and redefine contours by revitalising superficial fat cells. Using a specialised formulation of hyaluronic acid, it lifts and tightens areas like the cheeks, jawline, and temples, without adding volume. This treatment is particularly effective for addressing age-related changes in facial fat, leading to a more sculpted, youthful appearance.
Profhilo Body
Great skin shouldn’t stop at the jawline. Profhilo Body targets areas like the stomach, upper arms and thighs, where skin often loses firmness over time. Whether it’s post-baby texture on the tummy or crepey arms, this treatment helps smooth and improve elasticity exactly where you need it.
Across all three treatments the benefits are consistent: minimal downtime, a naturally refreshed appearance and results that build over time. Most clients begin with two sessions, spaced four weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every six to twelve months.
With Profhilo, it’s not about chasing trends. It’s about supporting your skin to function as it once did, by boosting your own collagen, improving elasticity and restoring deep hydration where it matters most.
Combined with a personalised treatment plan and consistent skincare, Profhilo can help you achieve healthier, more resilient skin not just for now, but well into the future.
CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ
Discover the unparalleled elegance of Oli Valenti, where every garment is a masterpiece crafted from the world's most luxurious fabrics and thoughtfully made in New Zealand.
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of premium camel wool, French linen, and silk—materials selected for their exquisite quality and sophisticated appeal. Experience our exclusive, limited-edition collections and unique designs available only at Oli Valenti. At Oli Valenti, sustainability is woven into our very fabric, ensuring beauty and conscience go hand in hand.
Salon G’s curl specialist, Shelley Pullar, explains how easy it is to set your curls free.
PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED
Let’s face it – 64 percent of us are blessed with naturally curly hair, yet for decades we’ve been coaxing, straightening, and smoothing those gorgeous coils into submission. But even after years of damage, it is possible to reclaim your curls’ natural texture.
Here are my must-know, salon-approved secrets to bringing them back to life.
Hydration is everything
Curly hair craves moisture, and for good reason. Natural oils from the scalp struggle to make their way through each twist and turn of the curl, leaving strands parched.
Start with a sulphate-free cleanser like Clever Curl Cleanser, a “no-poo” formula that skips the suds but delivers hydration.
Pro tip: always double cleanse!
Follow with the right conditioner. For fine curls use Clever Curls Light Conditioner. For thick or coarse textures, consider Clever Curls Rich Conditioner.
Want to go the extra mile? Treat your curls to a deep-conditioning mask. Leave it on for up to an hour, wrap your hair, and soak in a steamy bath.
Detangle with TLC
The golden rule is to always detangle when your hair is soaking wet. Use your fingers or a wet brush, starting at the ends and gently working upward. Patience is key!
Layer with love
Think of styling your curls like building the perfect lasagna, layer by layer. Start with a leave-in cream to seal in moisture and define your curl shape. We love Clever Curl Curl Cream for this step.
Need more hold? Choose a styling product to “cast ” your curls in place while they dry. Wonderfoam is good for light to medium hold. Clever Curl Gel in Humid or Dry Weather formulas, depending on the forecast.
Use a curl brush to sculpt and lift at the roots, then either air-dry or diffuse gently. Once fully dry, scrunch out the crunch for soft, bouncy, defined curls.
BEFORE AFTER
Sleep like a curl queen
Nighttime care is everything. Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase (or bonnet) to reduce friction, frizz, and moisture loss. Try the pineapple method by loosely gathering curls on top of your head to preserve shape while you snooze.
Refresh, don’t rewash
Washing too often can strip curls of their natural oils. Instead, refresh between wash days.
Mist your curls with water to reactivate the styling products already in place. Mix a bit of Clever Curl Curl Cream in a spray bottle with water, then shake and spritz. Give your curls a squish to revive bounce and reduce frizz.
Trim it to win it
Regular trims are non-negotiable for healthy, happy curls. Book a visit with one of our curl-cutting experts at Salon G and let’s talk shape, texture, and goals.
Bonus treat: The first 24 readers to book a haircut and mention this article will receive a complimentary Clever Curl Care Pack – our way of saying welcome to the curl club.
You can now refill your Clever Curl products at Salon G. Better for your wallet and the planet!
SALONGRANGE.COM
When Dr Dalton and Candice Booyse arrived in Tauranga two years ago, they didn’t just bring their twin boys and a love for the ocean, they brought decades of experience, a few cherished heirlooms, and a vision for family-focused dental care.
Eleven months ago, the Booyses took over DentalPlus, a well-established practice that's been serving the Tauranga community for over 17 years.
“We were looking for a place that reminded us of home, somewhere the boys could be outdoors, where there’s space to fish, surf, and just enjoy life,” says Dalton, a seasoned dentist with over two decades of international experience. Originally from Durban, Dalton previously worked in the UK before returning to South Africa, and finally, making the leap to New Zealand.
DentalPlus is now home to a tight-knit team of 13, including three experienced dentists and two hygienists. Among them is the clinic’s previous owner, Chris, a familiar face
in the community. He has remained onboard and still works at the practice. Having that continuity has been really helpful,” says Candice.
Though she doesn’t practice dentistry, Candice plays a key role in the business operations, customer care, and keeping the family-run essence alive. “It’s important that our patients feel like part of the family,” she says. That warmth extends to the waiting room, where a vintage dental cabinet once owned by Dalton’s father – also a respected dentist – now sits proudly. “It’s a real talking point,” laughs Candice. “We shipped it all the way from South Africa. It’s full of little drawers and tools from a different era, and people love seeing it.”
The clinic offers a full suite of services, from routine check-ups and hygienist care to cosmetic procedures, orthodontics, advanced implant work, Invisalign and full dental rehabilitation. The clinic also offers sedation for nervous patients. While Chris is a Platinum Invisalign member, his other colleagues also bring a unique level of expertise. Dr Nicola Wood has special interests in minimally invasive dentistry,
Dentistry with depth
Blending decades of international expertise with a warm, family-focused approach, DentalPlus is redefining modern dental care in Tauranga.
and cosmetic and functional dentistry, including dental implants. “We all cover a wide range of treatments and can bounce ideas off one another. It’s a great team dynamic,” Dalton says.
Technology is also a focus. DentalPlus is embracing the digital shift with 3D scanners, CBCT imaging, and AIintegrated tools. “It’s about giving people the best care with the most up-to-date methods,” says Dalton. “But it’s still the relationships we build that matter most.”
And those relationships often start young. With a focus on family care, the team encourages regular hygienist visits to set a strong foundation for long-term health. “It’s amazing the difference early care can make,” Dalton adds.
While the Booyses may have started out thousands of kilometres away, their roots are now firmly planted in the Bay. Having taken over a practice already built on heritage, heart, and high standards, it can only get better from here.
DENTALPLUS.CO.NZ
Candice and Dalton.
PHOTO SANDRI BLOM
Winter Skin Revival: The Power of In-Clinic
Skin
Rejuvenation
Rachael Hamill, U Appearance Medicine
Winter is the ideal time to focus on skin rejuvenation. With less sun exposure and social downtime, in-clinic treatments can work more effectively to renew and restore your skin at a deeper level.
Two standout treatments at U Appearance that deliver exceptional results are PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and Collagen Induction Therapy—both renowned for stimulating collagen production and cellular repair. But this season, a new favourite is gaining attention: NCTF (New Cellular Treatment Factor), also known as the “Chanel Treatment” or “Chanel Injection.”
So, what exactly is NCTF? It’s a poly-revitalising, non-invasive cosmetic treatment that infuses the skin with over 50 active ingredients—vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, minerals, and hyaluronic acid. This potent cocktail deeply hydrates, promotes cellular regeneration, and boosts collagen and elastin production. The result? Firmer, more radiant, youthful-looking skin.
Delivered through a series of micro-injections, NCTF targets fine lines, dullness, dehydration, and loss of elasticity. Think of it as feeding your skin exactly what it needs to repair and glow from the inside out.
Whether you’re looking to refresh tired winter skin or get a head start on spring radiance, now’s the time to invest in your skin’s health with proven treatments that go beyond surface-level skincare. Book your consultation and let’s create the ultimate winter skin transformation.
PRP TREATMENT RESULTS
A combination treatment, using Plasma with Collagen Induction Therapy. Follow
CLINIC INTRODUCTORY OFFER
Book any treatment valued at $250 or more & receive $75.00 off your next treatment
Valid until 31/12/25. T&C’s apply
Luxury real estate
Homes in a class of their own PAGE 90
Celebrating the places and spaces we call home.
New short stays in the Bay
MyStays’ owner on her business journey PAGE 94
A wealth of warmth
Infuse your space with character, mood and rich elegance, using plush plums and aged greens inspired by heritage homes and luxe hotel lobbies.
STYLING AMBER ARMITAGE @ MARIGOLD
PHOTOS MELANIE JENKINS @ FLASH STUDIOS
WALL COLOURS RESENE PAINTS
Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Tic Tac Toe and back wall and mouldings in Resene Quarter Linen. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bark. Lowden dining table and Zita dining chairs in Boucle from Design Central Norfolk olive floor rug from Baya . Te Henga by Helen Ollivier, available from Parnell Gallery Prince console table and Celeste vase, from Bradfords . Harvenwood footed bowl and Napier decorative bowl both from A&C Home
OPPOSITE: Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Stone Age with Resene FX Paint Effects tinted to Resene Quarter Linen applied over the top. Moldings and left wall in Resene Quarter Linen. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bark. Fulton vase, Dover cushions in Brick, Smoked Cocktail Glasses, all from A&C Home. Oliver fluted buffet in Burgundy, Bonnie occasional chair, Grove block side table and Madrid curve chaise sofa, all from Soren Liv. Greyson floor lamp from Design Central . Best In (Today’s) Show by Katherine Throne from Sanderson Gallery
Wall and moldings painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Quarter Linen. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bark. Prince console table, Boheme floor vase, Celeste vase and Structure accent chair all from Bradfords . Napier decorative bowl from A&C Home
Dark tones and dimly lit rooms are perfect to create ambiance in the bedroom. Try Resene Scoria a copper brown red to add warmth.
Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Scoria. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bark. Tassled wool rug from Nodi . Pietro bedside table and bedhead from Soren Liv Giovanni table lamp in pink from Design Central . Stonewash cotton duvet and pillow slips in Cocoa Stripe, Salina linen throw in Thyme, Platform coffee mug and Handbuilt book, all from A&C Home. Flaxmill Winter Moss lodge and Flaxmill Winter Moss large cushions from Baya
Resene Colorwood Bark
Resene Scoria
Now in store
Resene Stone Age
Resene Tic Tac Toe
Resene Quarter Linen
HANDWOVEN CARPET
Town and country
French-inspired elegance meets New Zealand heritage at this grand estate, offering timeless craftsmanship and luxurious comfort across every detail.
WORDS JO FERRIS
New Zealand architecture has a unique ability to adapt global influences to suit local aesthetics in ways that give greater credence to this country’s way of life.
This home’s grandeur begins at the private entry, as the green-belted driveway slides past an established avocado orchard. Fully managed by Ashlin Avos, this aspect removes any thoughts of hands-on work to offer the prospect of passive income and country lifestyle.
The welcome is imposing – gabled roofing pays homage to grand estates of old, with weatherboard construction matching that character in a contemporary way. Impressive double rimu doors, with their leadlight insets, suggest native timber and heritage features will continue inside; and this home certainly showcases its appreciation of traditional craftmanship.
The kitchen takes its cue from French country styling – blending marble and
timber with intricate precision. Colour choices complement the theme, while instilling an intimate mood that enriches bar-stool gatherings around the large rimu island and formal dining. Views stretch outside to the swimming pool and garden. Cathedral ceilings enhance the space, bespoke lighting blends character, while hand-beaten pewter hardware catches the light in subtle harmony.
The mood lightens in the family lounge – its softer tone and texture a clever contrast between the darker flavour of the kitchen/dining hub and formal lounge either side. Deep-coloured carpet in the lounge is a smart contrast to the oak laminate flooring in family living. The formal lounge doubles as a home theatre, thanks to a built-in projector and speakers. Eyes also draw to the antique kauri mantel embracing the gas fire; a feature repeated in family living. While the warm flicker of flame is an asset in both rooms, the ground floor boasts 10-zone hydronic underfloor heating, heated primarily with a diesel furnace.
Living areas all flow outside to expansive patio settings and a tranquil garden backdrop. Hidden neatly within a fringe of camelia hedging, the swimming pool melts into this serene setting.
Four bedrooms include a sumptuous master retreat upstairs, with its balcony gaze over the garden below; plus a second ensuite bedroom. Remaining bedrooms are downstairs; one shares semi-ensuite access to another bathroom, while all three boast heritage Perrin & Powel fittings, marble and oak cabinetry, plus underfloor heating.
Luxury features continue through to a large laundry – designed around ‘mud room’ convenience for country lifestyle. With three-car garaging and ample parking to welcome visitors, this home is the epitome of refined living – a country estate that brings heritage into the modern day.
80 Oliver Road, Te Puna OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM
Ebb and flow
Minutes from Katikati, this secluded waterfront paradise with panoramic harbour views is a rare lifestyle gem.
WORDS
JO FERRIS
Herons drop in to share nature within this waterfront haven. Views gaze across Tauranga Harbour, right down to Tauranga, where city lights twinkle at night. A sandy beach on the waterfront reserve awaits to push the boat out and fish in the harbour. For ocean jaunts and bigger game, larger vessels can be launched from the Long Beach Reserve boat ramp nearby.
This is ultimate serenity – seclusion within a waterfront headland minutes from Katikati – recognised for its friendly, village ambience and easy commutes to Tauranga on one side and Auckland on the other. But only if you want to. Everything you need is already here. Home to these vendors for 22 years, gated entry to this established avocado orchard ensures privacy is absolute – the world left behind, tranquillity and
harbour link proving why they have loved this lifestyle for so long.
Timeless elegance and smart design ensure views and nature remain the stars. Downstairs’ bedrooms all enjoy personal access to the verandah sweeping along the home. Every living area also opens outdoors, while bi-fold windows in the kitchen ensure alfresco relaxation is well catered for. Upstairs, the spacious master retreat has the added benefit of privacy, with elevated views and a balcony to cherish it all in peace and quiet.
Revolving around entertainment, this aspect is introduced the moment the front door opens. The foyer frames the harbour outlook, but also divides family living and the lounge – a feature that instils different moods to each area. There is a third mood in this home, however. Sitting at the far end and linked with the garage, a multi-purpose room invites numerous options. Also connected with the garden and,
complete with a benchtop and sink, it enhances this area’s purpose, be it leisure, exercise or work.
Gazing out to the massive waterfront sweep, there is potential to enhance recreation here. Leading out from the home, gentle formality in the garden is easy-care. As it steps down to the playground lawn, this open expanse offers endless opportunity. A pool, cricket, golf, or all three? There’s certainly room here.
A discreetly-placed shed with mezzanine, storage, kitchenette, bathroom and laundry complements orchard production – either working it as lifestyle option or opting for management with any of the local providers.
Every day is a new day, fishing or cruising the harbour, venturing out to sea and Mayor Island, or simply cherishing the seclusion and tranquillity – along with the herons.
This masterpiece of Italian-inspired luxury offers timeless craftsmanship and unforgettable grandeur in the heart of Tauranga.
WORDS
JO FERRIS
Discerning property buyers will know that this impressive property has been on the market for some time. You would be wise to put any perceptions, or thoughts of changing it, aside – rather see the home for what it is. Think like an Italian and appreciate that family sits at the heart of life.
Jason Eves sums it up when saying anyone who has followed Tauranga real estate will appreciate opportunities like this come once in a blue moon. Bella Italia’s vision was born from the Italian owner’s understanding of craftmanship. Craftsmanship that not only lasts the passage of time, but continues that legacy through the generations, without modification, merely the appreciation that age brings to refined lifestyle. This property impresses not just for its epic size and scale, but its multi-layered approach. Three residences in one
include a four-bedroom home within the main level, a two-bedroom apartment on the upper floor, and a one-bedroom studio apartment within the ground floor.
Solid concrete construction underpins the focus on longevity and quality, while incorporating sound-proofing that ensures privacy for all three residences. Designing three separate homes in one, the engineering knowledge and foresight remains faithful to the centuries’-old Italian palazzos this property was based upon. The design and finish might extol the Italian penchant for grandeur. Beneath all this however, the home disguises its attention to the fundamentals of a warm, healthy environment.
It epitomises the Mediterranean appreciation of family and entertainment. Either housing intergenerational family units, accommodating staff, or utilising this home’s unique presence for boutique accommodation, this is a multi-faceted property. Entertaining inside or out, the focus revolves around nurture and
nourishment. It’s easy to envision long, lazy lunches outside, or lingering dinner parties in the soaring luxury of the banquet hall inside.
Blending Italian materials with New Zealand accents, this property fuses Mediterranean heritage with hi-tech innovation and engineering ingenuity. Safely guarded behind gated security, within nearly an acre, this haven ensures seclusion and solace, protection and privacy. Manicured gardens and courtyard corners, topiary pathways and sloping lawns, a heated pool for year-round leisure, a spa for added bliss – it is the quintessential lifestyle.
Overlooking the Wairoa Valley, this property has sun and scenery by day, with exquisite sunsets as nightfall arrives. A sense of country, yet close to major arterial links to Tauranga and beyond, Bella Italia is simply perfezione.
Elevated Oropi living with stylish design and family-focused spaces, this modern retreat blends nature, privacy and possibility.
WORDS JO FERRIS
Nestled behind a fringe of manuka trees, this home’s introduction hides one of its biggest features: stunning scenery. Views embrace rolling farmland around the house, down to the city, the harbour and ocean. Mauao is majestic, yet it seems dwarfed by the magnificence of Mayor Island/Tūhua behind. Gazing right up to the Coromandel, these views set the stage for a beautiful lifestyle from this lofty position.
As a recent build, the home revolves around family, entertaining and intimate connection with nature. Oropi has escaped much of the horticultural development that has swept the countryside elsewhere in this region. While not devoid of neighbours, clever landscaping instils enough seclusion, while still inviting weekend gatherings.
Parent privacy is absolute. A five-star retreat sits in its own wing, away from
the remaining three bedrooms, at the far end. This feature alone, gives children or guests their own space; an elegant bathroom to share and separate powder room for added convenience. Every bedroom basks in views, however –either down the valley or out to the countryside. Particularly exquisite is the eastern view towards P ā p ā moa Hills and an historic pa site.
An office, study nook and storage enhance the design and convenience within the parent wing, while clever flow increases practical aspects of family life. Each zone interconnects, yet remains defined – storage maximising space wherever possible.
At the heart of it all, relaxation and entertainment are centre stage – the family hub showcasing soaring ceilings with contemporary trusses and barndoor feature. The bespoke kitchen has a scullery to keep prep and pantry storage out of sight. Modern farmhouse styling also showcases the love of bold colour–dark denim cabinetry the perfect
complement to the tone and texture that instils personality throughout this home. Dark woodgrain flooring in this family hub adds depth, while being on trend and practical for life in the country.
Features throughout this home accentuate innovative design elements. A cloak room off the foyer and guest powder room, cushioned window seats in bedrooms and shelving in both living areas – perfect for books, artwork and special items.
As the home slips outdoors to the loggia and playground expanse, there is room to develop this property further – a pool, tennis or mini golf, perhaps? Fruit trees are already in place, while dedicated veggie and herb boxes sit off the kitchen for easy access.
Built with forethought, nature meets lifestyle with originality and nuance in this idyllic Oropi setting.
1115B Oropi Rd, Oropi OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM
Staying power
A chance conversation has grown into a hugely successful business thanks to a focus on core values and positive word of mouth. MyStays owner Elle Knight shares her journey as the short-stay accommodation service moves into the Bay.
PHOTO JESSICA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
Elle Knight didn’t set out to become a business owner. She was simply looking for a little light relief. With a newborn son, who was born deaf and requiring bilateral cochlear implants, and a husband recovering from a broken leg, things were tight.
Then came a message from her cousin: “Want to borrow some DVDs?” While dropping them off, her cousin mentioned her partner was looking to sell a small property management business in Taupō. He managed eight apartments, but they were ready to move to Vanuatu.
“I said to my husband, ‘I reckon that would be a good gig for me,’” Elle recalls.
She saw potential – flexible hours that worked around the kids and enough income to cover essentials. With no experience but a strong head for business, Elle joined forces with her mother-in-law, Denise, to purchase what was then called Luxury Lakeside Accommodation. Elle’s years in banking had armed her with valuable systems knowledge and operational know-how – skills that would quietly lay the foundation for the scalable business they would later build.
“I’m very much a jump in and learn how to swim person,” she smiles. “Back then, we didn’t know what success would look like. It was exciting to think we had something that could make a real difference.”
In the early days, they did it all themselves, including the cleaning in the mornings, laundry at home, and manually managing bookings in the afternoons.
“It worked for about six months. But Taupō’s a small town. Word gets around.”
Before long, property owners began knocking. The business grew quickly, driven purely by word of mouth. For the next six years, growth was steady and organic, all based on one simple idea: genuine, high-quality service for both guests and homeowners.
“It got to a stage where we looked at each other one night and thought, ‘How has this happened?’” Elle laughs.
What had happened was remarkable. They’d built a reputation that larger, offshore-run platforms couldn’t match, rooted in care, consistency and personal connection. Property owners felt genuinely supported, and guests returned for the reliably high standard across every property.
When Denise stepped away, Elle and her husband took over completely. But they were fielding a new kind of request. Guests and owners alike asked if their services were available outside Taupō. The answer, eventually, became MyStays.
Launched in January 2024 as a sister brand to Lakeside
Accommodation, MyStays was created to grow the business while maintaining the personal touch and high standards that made Lakeside a success. While Lakeside continues to manage 60 plus properties in Taupō, the brands now work together in both Taupō and Kinloch, with a combined portfolio of over 110 homes.
“Taupō is still our base, but we realised there was a real demand for our kind of service in other regions,” says Elle. “MyStays lets us do that – scale up, while still keeping it personal.”
The two brands have since grown to manage 145 plus properties across New Zealand, including more than 25 homes in the Coromandel’s most sought-after beach destinations. In every region, the heart of the operation is the same: a local, trusted team providing hands-on care.
That’s where the GEM model (short for Guest Experience Manager) comes in. Each GEM is a local, supporting homeowners and guests with boots-on-the-ground knowledge and attention. Taupō and Kinloch have three GEMs working alongside the Lakeside team.
The Coromandel is supported by another trio, with more roles in the pipeline as expansion continues.
“It’s really important to us that our service feels local,” Elle explains. “Our GEMs make that possible. They’re not just staff – they’re trusted partners who help us maintain that consistent experience we’re known for.”
That consistency is key. Whether guests book a MyStays property in Auckland, Whangamatā, or Napier, they know exactly what to expect: clean, stylish accommodation and responsive service.
The Bay of Plenty is the latest region to join the MyStays map. It wasn’t initially part of Elle’s plan. She believed it was already well-served by boutique operators. But after hearing from multiple property owners dissatisfied with impersonal management companies, she saw room for MyStays to add value.
“It’s a stunning place. I’ve enjoyed family time and attending events here,” Elle says. “It’s vibrant and exciting, with great food and shopping, and it really is a year-round destination.”
Despite its scale, Elle still sees MyStays as a family business at heart. Her team is tight-knit, and many of them have grown within their roles as the company has scaled.
“There’s a real sense of belonging here,” she says. “That gives us an authentic connection to our owners and our guests. We believe in what we do, and when you see that connection happen, it’s pretty special.”
From a borrowed DVD collection to a nationwide property portfolio, Elle Knight’s journey proves that small beginnings can lead to big things.
MYSTAYS.CO.NZ
Master the Ancient Art of
Thai Massage
Step into the world of traditional Thai massage at our newly opened training facility. Guided by expert therapist and trainer, Srikham, you’ll learn time-honoured techniques passed down through generations – and gain the skills to promote healing, relaxation and wellness.
With decades of experience and advanced training from Thailand’s most prestigious schools – including Wat Pho, Shivagakomarpaj Old Medicine Hospital, and Lanna Traditional Medicine School –Srikham brings unparalleled expertise to every session.
Enrol now and begin your journey into the healing traditions of Thai massage.
Specialising in:
• Tok Sen (taught by Mae Kru Chanya, Thailand’s most respected Tok Sen teacher)
• Thai Remedial Massage
• Thai Foot Massage
• Advanced Acupressure Techniques
Beautiful balance
In the second of Guthrie Bowron Tauranga’s Design Elements series, we look at the importance of balance when considering changes or updates to your home.
Balance in its essence is the arrangement of elements in a room to create a sense of harmony and equilibrium. It's a key principle of interior design that helps make a space feel comfortable and visually appealing. Balance is a principle that ensures that no single element in a room overpowers another in terms of visual weight or dominance. There are different types of balance, each having their own unique visual kudos.
Symmetrical balance
The art deco inspired hallway (top left) uses symmetrical balance brilliantly. The focal point is clear, and the mirroring of the paint colour archway either side reinforces the central axis. The two simple cane chairs and their upholstery perfectly reflect the Fleur de Joie Paprika/Aqua wallpaper from Harlequin Idyllic Retreat behind them, creating a uniformed and harmonious look and feel to the space.
Asymmetry balance
Symmetrical may be too ‘perfect’ an approach for some, as not all spaces suit the uniformed look of order that symmetry provides. Here is where asymmetrical comes into play, providing a more dynamic, informal look. In this example showing the Kent Khroma Anemone and Malva wallpaper collections (centre left), the key here is to balance visual weights, textures and colour. See how the heavy curved scotias and panels sit surprisingly
successfully within the lighter more delicate olive and taupe palette.
Asymmetrical balance can be harder to achieve, but if it’s done well, it can make a space so much more interesting and alive. The reason for this is that it creates tension and surprise in a room with the visually unexpected by way of paint colour, wallpaper pattern and placement and scale of decorative elements.
You can, of course, implement both asymmetry and symmetry together, to create a more interesting and dynamic design scheme.
Radial balance
Radial balance utilises a central focal point where design elements radiate outward or inwards to the central point. In this example, Agathe Khroma by Masureel (bottom left), the circular sofa, tables and placement of the outer lounge chairs create a radial pattern reinforced by the curve of the face in the wallpaper pattern, and the window frame and choice of side tables.
The use of radial balance is a popular choice for hospitality and commercial spaces as they often create stunning results.
Using the skill, expertise and experience of an interior designer, window treatment consultant or colour specialist to get you on the right ‘balanced’ track, can save you time, energy and open up the world of design possibilities to you.
For more inspiring ideas, visit Guthrie Bowron’s Cameron Road showroom. GUTHRIEBOWRON.CO.NZ
by
Organic
function
ecc.co.nz 3. The Boulder chair, POA, davidshaw.co.nz 4. Relevo
170 x 240cm $2346 - 200 x 300cm $3790, 5. Sand Dune Pillow-ish vase, $229, authorceramics.com 6. Block mirror, $2100, slowstore.co.nz 7. Gesture XVI carbon fibre, resin, oak veneer 700 x 1000 x 200 mm, $13,900, sanderson.co.nz 8. Teressa table lamp, $1345, backhouse. co.nz 9. Artisan mosaic accent table - Travertine, $759, crafterandco.nz 10. Organic shaped cup 275ml, $29.90, greenwithenvy.co.nz 11. Walter Brown side table Woodstone, POA, davidshaw.co.nz 12. Nick Herd Oil on Canvas 320 x 215mm, $3600, foenandergalleries.co.nz 13. Lulu Candle in Ivory, small $39.95, large: $69.95, kayustudio.co.nz 14. Fried Egg Sheep chair, $9995, goodform.co.nz 15. Eddy table lamp in white by Normann Copenhagen, $1179, top3.com.au
1. Minotti Coupé sofa, POA,
Rug in Burnt Orange
Muuto,
Sculptural silhouettes and organic forms are redefining the language of interiors, infusing our spaces with softness, movement, and a sense of individuality. From curvaceous furniture and abstract lighting to hand-crafted ceramics, these pieces blur the line between function and art, introducing warmth and emotion to otherwise clean architectural spaces. In an increasingly fast-paced world, there’s a deepening urge to slow down and find beauty in imperfection. These fluid, tactile shapes invite touch, spark curiosity, and encourage a sense of calm and continuity.
Samsung Galaxy Ring
Tech testing corner
Karl Puschmann tries out the latest and greatest gadgets.
Smartwatches are nifty devices, but you may already have a stylish watch you don’t want to retire, or simply don’t want a mini-computer strapped to your wrist. Enter Samsung’s new Galaxy Ring, which looks like regular jewellery but is anything but. This slim, sleek ring comes in Titanium Black, Silver, or Gold, and discreetly tracks key health metrics like heart rate, sleep, and activity levels. Your ‘sleep score’ and ‘readiness score’ — gauging how prepared you are for the day — are accessed via the free Samsung Health app. Sorry, Mac users, it’s Android-only. The Ring lasts up to a week per charge, is water-resistant to 100 meters, and delivers health data elegantly, without a bulky device. Widely available from $699.
Nintendo Switch 2
It’s been eight years since Nintendo revolutionised gaming with the original Switch, a hybrid console that plugs into your television but can also be removed from its dock for play on the go.
A global smash, it sold over 150 million units but had begun to show its age. So when Nintendo announced the Switch 2, promising more of the same, only bigger, better and more powerful, fans were hyped. But is that hype warranted? For Switch gamers, absolutely. The console is a major upgrade. Increased processing power means faster load times, and its 7.9-inch 1080p touchscreen makes graphics pop with sharper visuals and smoother gameplay. The larger Joy-Con controllers are welcome, though I’m still waiting for a game that uses their unique mouse functionality. If you’re in the Switch ecosystem, upgrading to the Switch 2 is a no-brainer. It’s backward compatible, and transferring your game library to its 256GB storage is painless. The only downsides are the increased size and weight may be a bit much for younger players, and the launch line-up is fairly slim. But with Nintendo’s heavy-hitting franchises on the way, switching to the new console is a safe bet. Switch 2 combo bundle with Mario Kart World is $869.
QUIRKY TECH
Audio-Technica Sound Burger
Think your vinyl collection is stuck at home? Think again.
Audio giant Audio-Technica has reissued its iconic Sound Burger, a portable record player that first turned heads back in the 80s. Of course, they’ve updated things since then, and this irresistibly cool turntable has been refreshed with a massive 12-hour rechargeable battery and Bluetooth connectivity so you can effortlessly pump out the jams to a portable speaker. No wires, no fuss, just pure vintage vinyl joy. $548 at JBHIFI.CO.NZ
4D Portable Eye Air Pressure Massager
If you’ve been staring at screens all day, squinting under bad lighting or suffering from restless nights' sleep, your poor eyes will be crying out for a break. Give them the soothing relief they deserve with this portable eye massager that uses air pressure, heat and soothing vibrations to reduce eye fatigue, melt away all that stored-up tension and leave you feeling refreshed, recharged, and totally zen.
$99 at MIGHTYAPE.CO.NZ
JBL Soundgear Square Frames
These funky shades also pull double duty as headphones, meaning one less thing to carry around with you. These lightweight and comfy shades have small directional speakers in the arms that fire rich, ear-filling music directly into your ears without the need to cover or go inside them. Bluetooth connectivity and built-in mics allow you to crank the tunes and take calls. The phrase ‘hip to be square’ has never been more appropriate.
$199.95 at JBL.CO.NZ
Give it a try July
Kate Fenwick shares simple ways to create small changes that make a difference.
You know how January gets all the hype for being the month of big resolutions and gym memberships you use twice? Well, I’d like to propose a new tradition: Give it a Try July – the one month a year where we make a small but mighty change to how we deal with waste.
Don’t worry, I’m not asking you to become a full-blown zero-waste wizard or start washing and reusing your dental floss (please don’t). This is about finding one habit that feels doable, maybe even fun, and giving it a red-hot go for 31 days. No guilt, no eco-perfectionism, just good intentions and a bit of fun along the way. Behaviour change takes time, and trying to overhaul everything at once is a fast track to burnout (and possibly crying in the supermarket aisle). But choosing one behaviour to focus on? That’s achievable. That’s the sweet spot. And over time, those small changes stack up into something pretty impressive.
So what might you try in July? Here are five waste-minimising behaviours that are surprisingly easy to adopt – and the goal is to change that one behaviour permanently moving forward.
1. Change the way you wrap
This month, become a cling film quitter. Swap it for beeswax wraps, containers with lids, or just plonk a plate over your leftovers. Your sandwiches will still survive, I promise.
2. Make friends with your freezer
If your veggie drawer regularly turns into a compost starter kit, July is your time to shine. Chop and freeze your wilty greens, overripe bananas, and half-used herbs before they cross over to the dark side.
3. Ditch the wish-cycling
Let’s stop putting random stuff in the recycling bin and hoping for the best (aka wish-cycling). Take a few minutes to check what your local council actually accepts and find the places you can take things like metal products, soft plastics and e-waste. Knowledge is power – and also less landfill.
4. BYO everything (except drama)
Whether it’s your coffee cup, shopping bags, or lunch container, try bringing
your own. Bonus points if you manage to awkwardly carry five groceries in your arms because you forgot your tote again. We’ve all been there.
5. Get nosy about your rubbish
Yes, I’m telling you to poke through your bin. Do a mini waste audit and see what keeps showing up. Is it snack wrappers? Receipts? Wine bottles (no judgement)? Once you spot a pattern, you can tackle it head-on.
The magic of Give it a Try July isn’t about nailing it perfectly. It’s about giving something different a whirl, proving to yourself that change doesn’t have to be hard or heroic.
So go on, pick your one thing and give it a try. Worst case scenario? You end up with a sense of accomplishment and a cleaner bin and you definitely made a difference when it comes to minimising your waste.
Have fun with it and even create a challenge with your friends or work colleagues.
WASTEDWITHKATE WASTEDKATE.CO.NZ
Hand your capital gains over to a retirement village operator, OR... ..keep them in hand for you and your family.
Come in and discover a vibrant, social community at Karaka Pines Waihi Beach.
Explore boutique two or three-bedroom homes just a short walk from Waihi’s pristine beach.
Learn how we’re redefining fair retirement living, with affordable fixed fees, and the unique benefit of keeping your capital gains.
Progressive positioning
Coombes Johnston welcomes customers into a new era.
WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS JAHL MARSHALL
As Coombes Johnston marks 30 years representing the BMW brand in Tauranga, the timing feels fitting for a major transformation. The dealership has just completed a major showroom upgrade, designed to modernise not just the look, but the experience of buying a vehicle. The result is a space that feels less like a traditional showroom and more like an extension of the brand’s identity.
The second location in New Zealand to have undergone the international ‘Retail.Next’ initiative, the new showroom is overarchingly aspirational while reflecting the brand’s emphasis on customer centricity. “We have always had outstanding customer service,” says manager Kevin Pead. “We always had the DNA for that. Now we’ve lifted up the environment to match the level of service that we’ve been offering to our customers in the Bay of Plenty for 30 years.”
BMW has an undisputed reputation as a premium European luxury brand. The freshly renovated showroom, with its stylish interior and multi-functional spaces, is testament to this positioning. As I walk through the doors, the receptionist beams a sunny smile, radiating warmth on a wet winter’s day. Leading me to the inviting seated area, fresh coffee on the table, the feeling is less showroom and more lounge area. Glancing around I notice the stunning feature lights. These, Kevin explains, he initially thought may be overkill, but when they were installed, all was revealed. Without doubt purposeful, the pendants glisten over the seated area where they serve to create a cosy, intimate environment; meanwhile my eyes are drawn to the M wall where a feature white and red longline ceiling element is suspended over the latest highperformance luxury M3 model, the light showcasing the sleek contours of this beautiful vehicle.
The seating, while perfect for meetings, faces a screen which boasts the very latest in technology. The EVE – Emotional Virtual Experience – is an immersive experience that allows customers to digitally design and
watch as their dream car comes to life. Even the more old-school customers are on board with this technology, as it helps to bring a real sense of confidence to decision making.
“There are so many different makes and models we can’t stock all of them, so if someone wants to bespoke a car this allows them to see what the finished product would look like from the comfort of a lounge type environment.”
The brand concept behind the Retail.Next upgrade is, says Kevin, “to create a warm, embracing, relaxed atmosphere.” The days of the hard sell are long gone. Today’s experience of looking for a new car involves a more consultative approach. BMW considers itself a market leader in more than just its innovative car design and production. After all, Kevin points out, “BMW doesn’t follow, it sets the standard”. The ‘shop floor’ is obviously a part of this. From the moment someone arrives, “You want them to feel as though they want to buy a car; and whether it’s the latest and greatest or it’s an older model, the level of service is the same.” The split for new versus used vehicles is roughly fifty-fifty, but rule of thumb is that “used car buyers will one day become new car buyers.” I question why this is, and Kevin looks amused. “It’s a natural progression – it’s a great audition, isn’t it!”
Car enthusiasts will already be aware that BMW is considered the ultimate driving machine, and Kevin is excited about what’s coming, with product launches for 2025 set to defy expectations further – what’s on the horizon is “younger, fresher, more exciting; and our technology advances with each new model.”
We circle back to the fact that the customer journey is a key focus here at Coombes Johnston. This explains how, for two years running, BMW Tauranga were awarded Excellence in Customer Service nationally from BMW New Zealand. Kevin firmly believes that you have one shot at making a first impression. “The people that come have generally done their homework and are making a comparison. We are here to identify their needs and make sure they find the right vehicle.” Of course, he continues, “people want more from buying a car – they want, and deserve, a premium five-star experience.”
The service is wrapped up in so much more than excellent product knowledge. When dealing with uber
“As soon as you’re out the door, you’re just another number – here you will always be a valued customer.”
high-tech models, to help bring a purchaser up to speed with the technology can often, Kevin says, involve up to five post-sale sessions. His customer handover includes happily giving his mobile number to each client as part of the aftercare. This is indicative of the way these relationships are cultivated and valued. The ability to form firm relationships is something, Kevin says, that is lost when people shop further afield. There is often a belief that if you go to a bigger city, you’ll get a better deal – not the case, Kevin assures me. “As soon as you’re out of the door, you’re just another number – here you will always be a valued customer.” And one which will be looked after as part of the Coombes Johnston family.
The team of 13 share the same passion – Kevin has been with BMW for 10 years, and Simon, the service manager is soon to celebrate 20 years with the company. Longevity relates not just to staff relations but also to customers, with, says Kevin, many of their customers holding longstanding relations. Indeed, when I speak to owner Richard Johnston, he tells me anecdotally that he has been selling to one customer since 1987, starting the relationship when he was a junior salesman. The new look of the premises, he believes, does justice to the BMW brand. “Over the years the showroom has evolved, but this is a massive change – a quantum leap to something truly spectacular for 2025.”
As for being a BMW ambassador, Richard is clearly as passionate as ever about the Group. “They strive for excellence, and they measure us on excellence. There is an understanding at all levels of our team that the execution is at a very high level. The design, innovation, BMW’s ability to pivot quickly – there’s a very strong focus on drivability and the passion and emotional experience that comes with being behind the wheel of one of these cars. That in itself, in my opinion, sets us apart – and as a small family run business it’s a real privilege to represent the brand.”
COOMBESJOHNSTONBMWTAURANGA.CO.NZ
A different kind of calling
A teacher, a doctor, a pilot, a movie star… Becoming a funeral director probably isn’t on many childhood wish lists. But for funeral director, Fergus Keith, it’s his most rewarding job yet.
PHOTO MARK FRUISH @ MATCHING BLACK
With a calm presence and a passion for helping others navigate grief, Fergus Keith shares his insights into the surprising realities of his role, what makes the work so meaningful, and why it’s time we all started talking more openly about death – and life while we’re at it.
UNO: What did you want to be when you grew up?
Fergus: Honestly, a funeral director wasn’t on my radar. Like most people, I didn’t leave school thinking, ‘I’m going
to work in the death care industry’. It’s a vocation that found me later in life.
Tell us a little about your work history prior to Legacy Funerals?
Before coming to Legacy Funerals, I spent time working as an ambulance officer and a church pastor, and I’m also a volunteer firefighter. Those roles have given me a deep understanding of how to relate to a wide range of people, especially during crisis and grief. My own personal experiences with loss as a teenager also helped me become more comfortable in that space.
What surprises people most about your job?
It’s not all sad and sombre. There are lighter moments and laughter with families as we work alongside them to keep the stories of their loved ones alive. Funerals are about more than saying goodbye, they are a vital part of the
What does a typical day look like for you? We’re not just dealing with the deceased – we’re working closely with the living. There is a lot of variety within the role, from behind-the-scenes work planning funerals, organising logistics and working with celebrants, to supporting grieving families. It's a careful balance between organisation and event planning, and ceremony, ritual and empathy.
healing process – not because someone has died, but because they have lived. And they’re not just for the front row of mourners. Friends, colleagues and community members also need that moment to reflect and grieve.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
It’s deeply fulfilling to know that by taking the time to craft the funeral experience just right, it helps people grieve well. Helping families feel supported at their darkest moments is a privilege that feels more like a vocation of service rather than a job. Also, Legacy Funerals is owned by a charitable trust, so profits go back into our community. Being part of something bigger adds another layer of meaning to what we do.
Do you have any advice for those considering a career in this field?
In my role I am a guide, a storyteller and above all a listener. There is a certain
level of maturity and life experience needed for the job. There is also on-call work – sometimes you're answering the phone at 2am when someone’s world has just fallen apart. But being that trusted person in those moments is incredibly humbling.
Any final thoughts?
As New Zealanders, we often rush grief and avoid talking about the inevitable. I encourage people to talk more openly about death, plan ahead and think about what their family will need when their time comes. At Legacy, we help people pre-plan funerals, not just to make things easier logistically, but to ensure the final farewell is a meaningful experience that enables their loved ones left behind to grieve and heal. After all, funerals aren’t just about death, they’re about taking the time to celebrate and honour life.
“Funerals are about more than saying goodbye, they are a vital part of the healing process – not because someone has died, but because they have lived.”
From prison to purpose
Known for his fierce presence on the rugby field, and for a headlinemaking fall from grace, former rugby league player Russell Packer is now stepping into a very different kind of spotlight. At this year’s He. Event in Tauranga, Russell will share his transformational journey.
WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT
When former New Zealand Warriors
prop Russell Packer walked out of prison in 2015, he carried more than just the weight of a criminal conviction. He carried a commitment to change.
After spending a year behind bars for assault following a drunken altercation in Sydney, during which he fractured a man’s eye socket, Russell emerged from incarceration determined to rebuild his life.
Originally sentenced to two years without parole, his term was reduced to one on appeal. That year away from his young family proved to be a turning point.
Upon his release, he returned to professional rugby league, gradually reintegrating into the sport. He was signed by several clubs and played until his retirement in 2021. Since then, Russell has earned an MBA with distinction and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Legal Studies.
him to speak, Russell saw it as a chance to give back, not by preaching, but by relating.
“Pretending you’re fine when you’re drowning nearly killed me,” he shares. “Speaking at He. is about cutting through the bullshit and showing men that trust and professional help aren’t luxuries, they’re necessities. If one man hears me and decides to get help, that’s a win.”
Russell plans to speak candidly about the lessons prison taught him, the struggle to rebuild from rock bottom, and the emotional tools he now uses to navigate life’s challenges. His story, he says, is one of accountability, humility, and ultimately, healing.
“Prison stripped everything back. You either face yourself or you don’t survive it. I faced my worst, and found my real self on the other side.”
Today, Russell describes himself as being in the best place of his life, not because it’s perfect, but because he finally has the right tools to deal with imperfection.
But even with his mammoth list of achievements, Russell felt a deeper calling, to become a voice for men who, like him, had once masked their pain with aggression and silence. Now based in Tauranga, he’s preparing to speak at the second He. Event, a community-led initiative focused on men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
“I know what it’s like to carry anger like armour, to mask trauma with toughness,” Russell says. “If I can show even one man that seeking help isn’t weakness, it’s survival, then all the pain I went through means something.”
When He. Event organiser Cassandra Hogan approached
“Therapy, honesty and letting go of shame are my foundations now,” he says.
Alongside his advocacy, Russell is now building purposedriven businesses in tech, housing and community development, which, he says, are ventures that align with his new mission: to make an impact that lasts.
“My future plans are to make more impact and less noise,” he says. “I want to use my platform to show that redemption isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.”
For tickets to the He. Event, visit HE-MENSMENTALHEALTH.NZ
“Prison stripped everything back. You either face yourself or you don’t survive it. I faced my worst, and found my real self on the other side.”
If you're a first-home buyer, you might be surprised by how many loan options are actually available to you. It’s not just one-size-fits-all.
Here are three main types of loans to consider, along with how each one works:
1. First Home Loan (via Kāinga Ora)
Some banks offer First Home Loans in partnership with Kāinga Ora. The bank handles the initial assessment using its own lending policies, and then Kāinga Ora gives final approval for both the loan and the property you're looking to buy.
It’s important to note that just because Kāinga Ora gives the green light doesn’t mean the terms, such as how much you can borrow or the interest rate, will be the same across all banks. These can vary depending on the lender.
The minimum deposit is five percent, and the deposit can come from personal savings, a gift, or proceeds from selling an asset. Not that you’ll need to meet Kāinga Ora’s eligibility criteria, which can be found at kaingaora.govt.nz
2. 10% Deposit Home Loans
These are widely available through all major banks. While banks may pause pre-approvals based on application volumes, you can still proceed by making an offer on a property. Once your offer is accepted, the application becomes a live deal and can be assessed. Some lenders still offer pre-approvals for auction purchases.
Cracking the first home code
Buying your first home doesn’t have to be confusing. Brooke Reynolds from Rapson Loans and Finance says there are more loan options available than most people realise. With the right advice, you can find a solution that fits your budget, deposit size, and property goals.
The minimum deposit is 10 percent, and at least five percent must be from genuine savings (e.g. KiwiSaver, cash savings, investment funds, or sale of an asset). The remaining five percent can come from a gift or a deed of debt from family. Bank rates vary between lenders, however the rate will be higher than a 20 percent deposit loan. Some banks may offer a $5,000 cash-back for first-home buyers.
3. 5% Deposit Loan (Non–Kāinga Ora)
There’s at least one bank offering five percent deposit loans for borrowers who don’t meet Kāinga Ora’s criteria. This loan requires genuine savings for the full five percent deposit.
Pre-approvals are not offered, but live deals (including auction purchases) will be assessed. Availability is subject to bank capacity – some may pause new applications from customers not already with the bank.
Important to note for all loan types
A professional property valuation is required for all three loan types. Make sure your offer includes enough time for both the assessment and valuation.
These loans are not available on interest-only terms – you’ll need to make principal and interest repayments from the start.
Navigating your first home loan can feel overwhelming, but a trusted mortgage adviser can guide you through the process. Ideally, choose one with access to all lenders, as borrowing limits and interest rates vary significantly between banks
RAPSON.CO.NZ
Mishaps and mayhem
Proud farm girl turned radio personality, Hayley Bath’s chaotic life is comedy gold.
Radio host Hayley Bath isn’t just the voice keeping you company from 9 to 3 on The Hits – she’s also the kind of woman who accidentally eats her pet sheep, marries a man after 12 weeks and loses her last baby tooth at 32. (Yes, really.) Here Hayley shares 10 delightfully unfiltered facts about couchsurfing with criminals, misbooking Mandarin bus tours, and raising a son who thinks Santa’s reindeer crashed into their lounge. Warning: you will snort-laugh reading this.
1. I accidentally ate my prize-winning pet sheep. I’m a country girl who grew up just outside of Pukekohe on a lifestyle block, where we had cows, sheep, chickens, pigs, and even a horse at one point. I earned pocket money by rearing calves and quickly learned that
naming a cute piglet ‘Bacon’ helped when the circle of life inevitably came around and it was time to stock the freezer. I always knew that my ribbon-winning sheep, Harry, would eventually be turned into lamb chops but when the time came, I absolutely refused to eat him. Lamb? Fine. Harry? Absolutely not. About a year later, I was reassured over dinner that Harry was long gone from the freezer, so I tucked into a lamb chop without a second thought. Fast forward three years to a heated argument with my sister, when she suddenly screamed: “YOU DID EAT HARRY’S LAST CHOP AND THE WHOLE FAMILY KNEW!”
2. I once had dinner with a drug smuggler and spent the night on the couch of a (ahem, cough) ‘woman of the night’. My sister and I couchsurfed our way around the world, staying on strangers’ sofas and encountering all sorts of characters, some more colourful than others, as mentioned above. We went to 14 different countries
in 90 days, travelling as cheaply as possible, which naturally led us to a few hairy situations. My poor mum was worried sick for us. For that reason we didn’t tell her when we got into a stranger’s van in Cambodia, got driven around the middle of nowhere and then had to give him cash to be let out of the van. Some things are best left unsaid.
3. I accidentally went on a four-daylong, full mandarin-speaking guided bus tour in the US. In the aforementioned trip, my sister insisted I pull my weight and organise something on the trip for a change. I chose a Grand Canyon bus tour but I left it until the night before to book it. We only found out why it was so cheap the next morning when the bus took off and the tour guide started speaking mandarin – for the entire time – for four long days. By then we were stuck on it. To this day I have no idea of any of the history or even what state we were in.
4. My hubby and I decided to get married just 12 weeks after meeting. When you know, you know, and I’m still unashamedly smitten with the gorgeous man. It was a whirlwind engagement that left a few people shocked, and more than a few assuming I must be pregnant (I wasn’t). So we decided to lean into the whole “shotgun wedding” narrative. Our ‘save the date’ invites featured me dressed as a pregnant hillbilly, with my wonderfully kooky dad posing behind Chris and me with a shotgun, implying an enforced marriage. We tied the knot just four months later. And now, 10 years on, I can happily say we’re still going strong – and still laughing.
5. I lost my last baby tooth at the age of 32. I know. Odd, right? Turns out there was never an adult tooth underneath it, so it just stayed put. Eventually, it had to be removed by a periodontist. Having waited nearly 32 years for the tooth fairy to show up, I figured this tooth must have gained some interest on the original two-dollar coin I never received. Surely, by now, it was worth at least a five-dollar note. So, with great hope, I placed my final baby tooth on the windowsill. The stingy tooth fairy, however, left me just one miserable chocolate peanut. A far cry from reimbursing me for the rather expensive dental implant that followed.
6. One of my most prized possessions is a taxidermy stag head hunted by my greatgrandfather in the 1940’s. I’ve named him
Lenny, after my great-grandfather Leonard. He hangs on the wall in our lounge. When my son was three years old, he developed a habit of swearing, completely unaware of what “naughty words” actually were. One day, I overheard him in the lounge, delightfully chatting to the stag and calling it a “f**king reindeer”. I think he believed it was one of Santa's reindeer that had accidentally crashed through the wall and become stuck while trying to land on our roof at Christmas. Now, every December, Lenny gets a red nose.
7. I’m a giant. Okay, technically I’m only 5 foot 10, but I feel like a giant. I shot up before all the boys at school, which is a crushing blow to any 12-year-old’s selfesteem. At my year eight formal, I finally plucked up the courage to dance with my crush, who, unfortunately, was eye level with my chest. In hindsight, he probably wasn’t too bothered, except that my body seemed to use all its energy growing upwards, leaving other, err, developments for much, much later.
8. I am a grateful recipient of the lifesaving service that is Life Flight. While I wouldn’t necessarily call this a fun fact, I was flown on a Life Flight Air Ambulance while pregnant with my twins. At the time, there were very few NICU beds available across the country, which placed me in a dangerously overdue situation and threatened the life of one twin in the womb. I was transferred on an emergency
flight from Wellington Hospital to Palmerston North Hospital – one of the few places with available NICU beds. I’m now fortunate to have two healthy twin boys, along with their older sister. I’m incredibly thankful for the amazing team at Life Flight and the outstanding medical staff here in New Zealand.
9. I spent a whole heap of money on a largely unused degree. In high school, I wanted to study radio, but decided it might be too risky career-wise. So instead, I opted to study acting at New Zealand’s leading drama school, Toi Whakaari (I’m not quite sure why I thought that was the safer option).
Fast forward three years, and I realised that my favourite part of the intense, and very expensive, degree was actually the small bit of radio voicing I did for a handful of radio plays. So, I then went on to study radio after all. An expensive reminder to always trust your gut!
10. I’m secretly an old soul – a 90-yearold trapped in a 34-year-old’s body. If I weren’t married, my dating profile would probably read: “Loves reading, gardening and staying in on a Friday night. Always up for discussing selfpollinating trees.” Thankfully, I’m not single, because, as my husband once put it, “I’m not sure we would have matched if we’d met on Tinder.” Ouch.
Catch Hayley on The Hits 95FM weekdays from 9am to 3pm.
Dubai – one of 14 countries in 90 days. Yosemite.
Taking a break from her Mandarin lessons at the Grand Canyon.
Above: Hayley and Chris' shotgun wedding. Below: Napping on tour.
*WLTP combined consumption compared to an equivalent petrol engine.
Official Fuel Consumption and CO2 emissions for the new 3008 Hybrid range are:5.4L/100km and 123g/km. The approval values are determined according to the WLTP mixed cycle on the basis of which new vehicles have been approved since September 1, 2018, updated from February 26,2024.The values shown are for comparison. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions values may be different and may vary depending on usage conditions and various factors such as: options, ambient, temperature, driving style. speed, total weight, the use of certain equipment (air conditioning, heating, radio, navigation, lights, etc.), the type of tyres, the state of the road, the external climatic conditions etc.
Ingham Tauranga | Peugeot
619/627
Ingham Tauranga | Chery
619/627
Kind, firm, calm
Could the secret to great parenting be KFC?
Ever find yourself second-guessing the decisions you make as a parent? Wondering if you're being too strict, too soft, too harsh, too lenient?
Good news – there is a simple balance that offers an easy-to-remember parenting posture. It combines warmth and affection, is held in place with gentle leadership, and is delivered calmly knowing that children thrive when the atmosphere is peaceful. I like to call this KFC – kind, firm, calm. Keeping a balance of these three things is the key to parenting.
Be kind
When we’re communicating with our kids, our tone of voice really matters. We need to stay kind and pleasant. If we are mean, sarcastic or shouty, our children will feel like they need to defend themselves and the issue will get lost in a fight.
Listen to your children and offer them empathy and support. Convey warmth, interest and love so they feel seen and heard by you. A stern look or raised eyebrows can communicate our impatience and irritation. On the other hand, gazing lovingly at your children and showing you are pleased to see them offers a deep feeling of safety and being loved.
Be firm
Children need us to be firm, even though they will do their best to get us to fold. Work out what you’re prepared to stand by and stay the course. Children will be relentless if they find they can sway us, and our job
will be much harder. A great motto is, “Say it, mean it, do it.” Remember that children feel safe, loved and protected when the big people set boundaries and stick to them.
Be calm
We need to be a constant source of calm in our families – as if we are set on a thermostat. The weather may change, but we don’t. When storms threaten, instead of losing our cool, yelling and reminding our kids about stuff they already know – we stay calm. Our confidence is conveyed by speaking quietly and bringing our voice down at the end of a sentence. Avoid fighting words that invite a challenge. For example, “There will be no biscuits until you have unpacked your school bag” works better with an invitation to cooperate instead. “You may have a biscuit as soon as you have unpacked your school bag.”
If you find yourself flooded with emotion, find a way to regain your composure. Press pause. Take some deep breaths and a few steps back. Make a cup of tea or go outside and reflect on what just happened. When you keep your composure, your children look at you and see how it’s done. They see that the big person in their life is not thrown or overwhelmed by their behaviour and it helps them relax and begin their own process of self-regulating.
PARENTINGPLACE.NZ
Extracted from Kind, Firm, Calm – Simple strategies to transform your parenting, by Jenny Hale.
Create winter memories to span generations
From epic playgrounds and whimsical gardens to cultural discoveries and riverside thrills, Waikato delivers magical experiences for every generation. Rekindle connection, curiosity, and playfulness this winter....
Your unforgettable adventure starts right here.
Hobbiton™ Movie Set
Zealong Tea Estate
EXPLORE
Explore the Waikato
Hit the road and explore our surrounding treasures. Winter wonderlands
Sights, tastes and events to enjoy
Bali bound!
The tropical travellers’ treat
Where magic awaits PAGE 129
Coco’s Trattoria
Italian cuisine gets some Kiwi infusion PAGE 130
A region for the ages
A family getaway to the Waikato uncovered a treasure trove of activities for all three generations.
WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT
The Waikato seems to be undergoing something of a travel renaissance. With a growing number of new experiences and attractions popping up in and around Hamilton and Cambridge, it's quickly becoming one of the North Island’s must-visit regions.
From the world’s largest organic tea plantation to New Zealand’s most visited attraction, Hobbiton™, and the foodie hub that is MADE, there’s now so much to see and do that fitting it all into a single weekend feels like a challenge.
Fortunately, Hamilton is just a two-hour drive from Tauranga, making it perfect for a quick getaway. Our family managed to pack in a wide range of family-friendly activities, and I even snuck away with Mum for a day of more grown-up indulgence. As it turns out, the Waikato is also an ideal destination for the over50s, with highlights like the spellbinding Hamilton Gardens, scenic riverside walks, bustling weekend markets, and charming countryside homesteads offering something for every kind of traveller.
Hamilton Gardens
Zealong Tea Estate
I wouldn’t call Mum obsessive, but if there’s one thing she’s truly passionate about, it’s tea. So it was only fitting that we made a stop at Zealong, just outside of Hamilton, home to the world’s largest internationally certified organic tea plantation.
At Zealong, tea isn’t just a beverage, it’s a way of life. The passion among the staff is palpable, and from the moment we arrived, the experience felt more like a refined wine tasting than a simple visit to a tea farm.
We were lucky to run into Zealong’s CEO, Gigi Crawford, who welcomed us and shared her extensive knowledge of tea. She walked us through the company’s inspiring journey, from a modest patch of tea plants nearly 30 years ago to an awardwinning, globally respected organic tea label. Among its many accolades, Zealong recently received the UK Tea Academy’s prestigious ‘Lifetime Achievement Leafie’, a testament to the team’s dedication. Mum, naturally in her element, impressed everyone by correctly identifying different teas and blends, while I fumbled through with minimal knowledge. We were then taken on a tour of the building and the plantation, learning about the Chinese history of tea. Sculptures of important historical figures dotted along the path leading up to the Tea Room showcased a lengthy history dating back almost 5000 years. At the Tea Room, we participated in a traditional tea ceremony, then were served what can only be described as the best high tea of my life. Zealong’s French pastry chef treated us to an incredible array of delicious pastries, sandwiches and sweets, all designed to accompany various types of tea blends. It was fair to say this was one of Mum’s top holiday highlights.
Woodlands Estate
Just four minutes down the road from Zealong lies Woodlands Estate, a sprawling 98,000-acre property established in 1872. At its heart stands the beautifully restored Homestead, originally built around 1875 as a manager’s residence and crafted largely from native Kauri timber.
The surrounding gardens are home to some huge botanical treasures, including New Zealand’s largest Eucalyptus tree. We wandered along peaceful tracks that weave through the estate’s lush gardens and trees, then stepped inside the Homestead, where rooms remain just as they were when the last family moved out in the early 1900s. Next door, a charming café offered the perfect spot to recharge after our meanderings.
Zealong's famous high tea.
Woodlands Estate
Zealong Tea Estate.
Hamilton Gardens
Another epic outing can be found at the Hamilton Gardens. If you haven’t been yet, you’re definitely missing out. Recently upgraded, the Gardens are now even more welcoming. One of the biggest changes is the addition of the Gallagher Visitor Centre, which opened last year. It now serves as the main entrance to the Enclosed Gardens and includes a café, extra seating, and event spaces.
Whether you're young or just young at heart, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring. Each garden offers a memorable, educational experience. I knew the kids would love the gardens, so we picked them up on our way there from Woodlands Estate. As predicted, they were especially enchanted by the Surrealist Garden, a whimsical dreamscape where everything is larger-than-life, making you feel like you've stepped into a storybook. They also loved the Ancient Egyptian Garden, which transports you 4,000 years back in time to a sacred temple garden. And no visit would be complete without a stop at the Destination Playground, packed with a treehouse, slides, and a stage perfect for imaginative play. I would highly recommend taking a tour with a guide who explains everything you need to know about each garden. It beats fumbling through the brochure and displaying your lack of historical knowledge in front of the kids.
MADE
Discovering one of the country’s best culinary hubs is nestled inside a block of shops in Hamilton East was not on my bingo card this year. But lo and behold there we were sampling some amazing food from some amazing artisans and shopping up a storm. The vibrant atmosphere proves the Waikato’s creative food scene has well and truly taken its place as a top destination for foodies. We dined at Reggie’s, a cute Italian restaurant serving up authentic dishes in a cool diner with views of the city. Then stopped in for gelato downstairs at Little ‘Lato. We were back the next day to do our grocery shop at the stalls – a great old-timey market experience in itself.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery
It was recommended the kids visit Waikato Museum’s interactive science centre, Exscite, which has recently been revitalised into two zones: Exscite: Home, exploring everyday science in a fun, hands-on way, and Exscite: Taiao, focused on Aotearoa’s natural environment. Among the standout features is a 30-million-year-old giant penguin fossil discovered locally, as well as digital activities like a touch-screen forest where kids can animate their own bird designs. All made for a great rainy day adventure.
Hamilton Gardens.
MADE.
Waikato Museum.
Cambridge’s new boutique gem
Set to open later this year, The Clements Hotel brings new life to one of Cambridge’s grand old buildings. Carefully restored with a nod to its 19th-century roots, the 29-room boutique hotel mixes old-world charm with modern luxury. Think plush rooms, a speakeasy-style bar, garden suites, and standout dining at the Gallery Restaurant. With five-star service, locally crafted gin, and stylish spaces to relax or celebrate, The Clements is set to become the go-to place for discerning travellers. The Clements is offering a grand opening special with 15 percent off room only rates for stays until September 30, 2025, subject to availability.
Lake Te Koo Utu Walk
A day trip to Cambridge was clearly on everyone’s holiday agenda during a stunning autumn weekend. We joined the crowds, ducking in and out of charming boutiques before grabbing some sushi for lunch. Craving a bit of peace and nature, we decided to explore beyond the town centre. Leaving the car parked, we strolled down to Lake Te Koo Utu, tucked right in the heart of Cambridge. I’m a little embarrassed to admit I hadn’t known it was there until a lovely woman at the isite Information Centre pointed us in the right direction. The loop around the lake is a beautiful, mostly shaded walk that takes about half an hour. Halfway around (if you're entering from the town side), there’s a playground and a garden perched on the hill. The kids had a blast weaving through the rose bushes and swinging their way through the park.
Camjet Extreme Tour
Just beneath Victoria Bridge, tucked along the banks of the Waikato River, you'll find Camjet – an adrenaline-packed adventure perfect for thrill-seekers and laid-back explorers alike. This high-speed jet boat ride pushes you out of your comfort zone while offering fascinating insights into the river’s history and ecosystem. Our driver, Aaron, kept us guessing with sharp twists, sudden spins, and unexpected stops to share curious facts, some of which may or may not have been entirely true. Along the way, we spotted a hawk snatch an eel mid-flight, only to lose it as it soared over the dense bush, and even caught glimpses of giant goldfish gliding near the shore. The entire ride lasted about 45 minutes, and by the end, we were soaked, and grinning from ear to ear.
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
On our last day, we took a bit of a detour before heading home. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is a must-visit eco-sanctuary just outside of Te Awamutu. Enclosed by one of the world's longest pest-proof fences, this ancient forest is a haven for native wildlife, including kiwi, takahē, and tuatara. You can book a guided walk, but we decided to head in on our own. We climbed treetop viewing platforms and walked the serene forest trails while learning about conservation efforts to restore the natural ecosystem on signs along the path. Without predators, the wildlife are surprisingly friendly. A North Island robin followed us for part of the walk and happily posed for photos just an arms-length away. The whole experience was a great chance to experience New Zealand’s biodiversity as it once was.
Lake Te Koo Utu Walk.
Camjet Extreme Tour.
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.
1866 Bar in the basement.
Waikatoshowcase
Crafting elegance
N.E.S is celebrating 25 years of timeless, New Zealand-made fashion. Creative director Kate Harris teams up with Robyn Stinson of ObyRyn, merging their distinct design visions to create something extraordinary. Known for versatile pieces with a refined edge, N.E.S prioritises local craftsmanship, offering women style, comfort and individuality. Here's to 25 years of evolving, yet enduring, fashion. NESBOUTIQUE.CO.NZ
Light the sky
Balloons Over Waikato's ZURU Nightglow is Hamilton’s biggest night out, attracting over 30,000 attendees for a spectacular evening. Enjoy hours of live entertainment, carnival rides, food trucks, and the breathtaking hot air balloon glow show lighting up the sky. The night culminates in a dazzling SkyCity Hamilton fireworks display. A family favourite? Walking inside a real hot air balloon. This ticketed free event takes place every March. BALLOONSOVERWAIKATO.CO.NZ
Global success
Four mates, a few gins, and some bad jokes led to the creation of Clark Lane Distillery. Their Piko Gin blends native Pikopiko fern with pure Pirongia spring water. With a Silver at the Asia Spirits Challenge™ and Gold at the Gin of the Year™ awards in London, Piko Gin promises global success and sophisticated taste. Grab your bottle now. CLARKLANEDISTILLERY.CO.NZ
Game on
SkyCity Hamilton is the home of entertainment in the heart of Hamilton. With 20 tenpin bowling lanes, an exciting mix of restaurants and bars, a casino, live entertainment, conference and event spaces for hire plus plenty of on-site parking, there is something for everyone. R20 for entry to the casino. SKYCITYHAMILTON.CO.NZ
Relax and recharge
Just a short walk from the airport, JetPark Hamilton Airport Hotel and Conference Centre is a welcoming stop along your journey. Family-owned and Kiwi-operated, it offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy art-filled spaces, fresh seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, and the convenience of complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. Whether you're in town for a meeting, a break between flights, or a peaceful overnight stay, the hotel’s modern facilities and friendly atmosphere ensure a comfortable stay. Let JetPark be a simple, memorable part of your travels.
JETPARKHAMILTON.CO.NZ
There’s a lot to love at the
There’s always something to do, see, eat, drink and love when you visit Hamilton’s city centre.
lovethecentre.co.nz
Island of the gods
Whether itʼs surfing, trekking or meditating that floats your boat, Bali proves its a tropical destination for one and all.
WORDS NICKY ADAMS
Before booking a trip to Bali I asked around incessantly for opinions and found that people very much fell into two camps. Comments ranged from ‘I absolutely love it, would go every year if I could’ versus ‘too much traffic, too commercial’. After a little deliberation matched with airfares that made it cheaper than a trip to Fiji, our family decided to take the plunge.
Arriving in Denpasar airport late afternoon, the general lack of clear instruction in immigration was confusing, but introduction of E-gates meant those with children of 14 and over could avoid all queues and zoom through. A little pre-planning meant we had booked a driver to pick us up (anyone who has been to Bali will usually be able to pass on a contact) and because traffic is notoriously bad post 4pm we had decided to stay cheaply close to the airport in Kuta with a view to starting the trip properly the next
day. Our driver (Wayan) returned to pick us up at 9am, and without much idea of what we really wanted to do, other than end up in Ubud, Wayan took charge of the immediate itinerary and we hit the road.
Weaving through streets where around every corner there is a stunning temple, meant that even without a specific tourist attraction in mind, everything felt exciting and vibrant. Ubud is both a town and a district. The area is thick with rainforest and known for its breathtaking terraced rice fields, while also being an arts centre and cultural capital. Bali is predominantly Hindu in faith (with Muslim, Christian and Buddhism all much smaller denominations), and Ubud is home to many ancient relics of religious significance. Stopping at one of the ‘Big Swings’, where you take your life in your hands while you fly through the air over steep drops down to lush green rice terraces, the breathtaking scenery gives the combined benefit of adrenalin rush and top tourist attraction rolled into one. The same location offered a journey through the process of manufacturing Luwak, the well-known Balinese coffee produced via the intestines of a civet. Yes, the coffee beans are eaten and pooped out by civets. Freakish though it sounds, the product is delicious, and was one of many superb Balinese coffee blends – I’ll admit to returning with an addiction for strong filtered coffee. Ubud can be done as a day tour, however I would highly recommend it as a destination worthy of longer. The streets are packed with sights – amongst the many, while here we visited the authentic Neka Art Museum, traditional Art Market, Saraswati
Temple and the magnificent Ubud Palace. Shop after shop offers multiple artisan gifts, along with jewellery and clothes – and a covered market is an emporium of delights. It takes a while to get the hang of the bartering system – tempering guilt at haggling with the desire not to be ridiculously ripped off, makes this a learning curve. Shopping and temples aside, Ubud boasts some amazing restaurants and multiple boutique hotels which are of the highest international standard but at a fraction of the price. As a family of five we preferred two bedrooms, and as one of our children has a nut allergy we wanted to be able to prepare our own food, which we could achieve by staying in the villa part of a hotel. This came with a lounge, kitchen and our own pool. At the higher end of the accommodation options, the service (cocktails) and facilities were unsurpassed. There was also a great deal of reassurance knowing the hygiene standards were exacting and water used in everything was purified, so ice was safe and plentiful. Here in Ubud there are plenty of accommodation options available, at a price point to suit any budget or individual needs.
With monkeys roaming the streets, pilfering from store owners and tourists alike, there is an authenticity to Ubud that, despite the crowds, cannot dull its charm. I had heard differing opinions on the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (too touristy/biting monkeys), but desire to experience it outweighed the fear of a showdown with a fearsome primate. Forewarned is forearmed – and I would say that if you have few ‘removables’ and treat the monkeys with respect you would be unlucky to be targeted (although one did
steal my daughter’s ice block out of her hand as we left). Watching them swing around you, frolic in front of you, tend to tiny babies and generally go about their business was nothing short of magical.
Knowing the 40-minute drive to the coastal town of Seminyak would take much longer than this in traffic, combining a change of location with more sightseeing seemed a great option. Our trusty driver came to pick us up, and together we worked out a route, which took in Tibumana (the not-so-secret secret waterfall) and Tirta Empul Temple, which is considered the most sacred temple amongst the Balinese Hindu community. All the time weaving through scenic countryside of rice fields and multiple other less known attractions. Feeling that we had well and truly ticked the tourist box, once we arrived at our beach destination, there was no guilt in the following days centred around mooching, shopping, eating, drinking and enjoying the blazing heat. If beach is important to your trip, then there are breathtaking beaches to discover, and Bali is a well-known surf destination. Seminyak/Legian beach is a cool spot, by night dotted in multi-coloured bean bags and cranking out music to chill to as the sun goes down. But for beach alone it would not have the biggest pull. However, the area itself is everything you could want and more. The shopping is frenzied but friendly, the hassling is minimal and in good spirits – if you want a more refined experience there is a mall surrounded by street after street of high-end boutiques. There are also some key restaurants and hotels to visit; Double Six, with its sunset roof top bar makes a wonderful evening hang out. If you want to try local fare but are feeling cautious, then go mad on the tropical fruit –passion fruit is not as we know it, coming in at much
“No matter if your idea of the perfect holiday is active resting or totally zoning out, Bali really does bring it all to the table.”
sweeter, watermelon can be found with bright yellow fresh, rambutan (lychees) are sweet and flavoursome. We loved the mangosteen fruit, a segmented milky white flesh, the snake fruit (salak) was crunchy and almost chestnutty. If you really want to try something unusual then look no further than the durian – I literally couldn’t explain the taste other than as custardy caramalised onion. Not one I’ll be adding to my fruit salad.
We rented a villa (Andari Villas) that was close to the famous Double Six area; located between Legian and Seminyak, while central its position on a side street meant we experienced the best of both worlds (as well as have our cleaning, catering and washing seen to by a resident maid, and security at the end of the street). Outside the hub-bub – which we could dip into and then out again at will; inside was a sanctuary spread over three bedrooms, two lounges, five bathrooms, kitchen and private pool. The utter tranquility meant we could stay and chill to our hearts’ content. If massage is your thing, then Bali will be your heaven – of all the things that are ‘affordable’ massage knocks the rest out of the park. We were able to have a masseuse come to the villa for an amazing poolside massage, an hourlong treat costing the same as a couple of coffees in NZ. Of course, tipping, while not expected, is something you want to do – when we tend to be cashless it’s worth trying to remember to always have something to hand.
No matter if your idea of the perfect holiday is active resting or totally zoning out, Bali really does bring it all to the table. Plan ahead and work out what you want from the trip, pack the hand sanitiser and it really is a glorious island paradise.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Other highly recommended spots include Canguu and Sanur.
• Surfing opportunities are next level –Kedungu, Padang Padang, Medewi.
• Restaurants to try – Sardine (Kerobokan), Chandi (Seminyak)
• We travelled at the start of the dry season, some rain, but sightseeing was amazing regardless.
• Add activities such as cook schools, meditation, or yoga retreats – go by recommendations.
• Pack medication. We took charcoal tablets, but arm yourselves with painkillers for stomachache, and something for nausea.
• Scooters are a fun, efficient way to travel – check out reviews for rentals.
• Waterbom Bali is family fun.
• We stayed in a variety of accommodations with prices starting from $200 per night for five inclusive of breakfast for two rooms in the hotel and three rooms in the villa.
• While we only managed to get away for a week, I would recommend at least 10 days.
• Go by accommodation recommendations if possible as quality varies hugely. Organise visas in advance as they can be tricky. If it feels daunting, ask an expert – travel agent or small operator. Locally Sandy Crooks (Clarke Rd Kitchen), arranges and leads exclusive group tours to Bali.
Winter wonderlands
While many of us dream of ditching the winter coats and chasing the sun, there’s something irresistibly charming about leaning into the season instead. Think snowdusted villages, steaming mugs of mulled wine, and the soft crunch of fresh powder underfoot. Tanya Chaffey of Chaffey and Turner Travel Associates in Tauranga shares her top picks for destinations that make the cold well worth it.
Whether you're dreaming of frosty escapades in the heart of Finland's Lapland, carving pristine powder in Japan's renowned skiing destinations, or soaking in Iceland's geothermal allure, my guide to the ultimate winter holiday will transport you to where the festive spirit and the magic of the season create an unforgettable experience. From the artistry of ice sculptures in Harbin to the wildlife wonders of Canada's snowy terrains, each destination offers its unique charm and promise of an enchanted winter.
Finland
Venturing into the heart of Finland, especially around the Arctic Circle and Lapland, feels like stepping right into a winter fairy tale.
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is your year-round hub for all things Christmas, and meeting the real-deal Santa and Mrs Claus at the Santa Claus village is pure magic. Try snuggling up in an igloo for the night. If you're lucky, you'll get front-row seats to the Northern Lights right from your bed. There’s loads of adventure activities right on your doorstep, too. Hop on a snowmobile
and take in the stunning winter landscapes. Or opt for a gentler journey with a reindeer or dog sled ride.
Japan
The snow in Japan is really something special. Places like Niseko and Hakuba are known for their light, dry powder — often called “Japow” — and offer terrain for all skill levels. The ski season generally runs from December to April, though dates vary depending on location and snowfall.
Many resorts have ski-in/ski-out access, and all-inclusive options that include everything from steaming bowls of ramen to international dishes. Take a break from the slopes to explore an onsen village. Or visit the snow monkeys warming themselves in natural hot springs.
Iceland
Winter in Iceland feels slower, quieter, and more surreal, with only a few hours of pale daylight and long, starlit nights. It’s an ideal time to soak in the country’s geothermal pools — the Blue Lagoon is the most famous, but there are dozens of others tucked into lava fields and coastlines across the country.
Christmas here comes with its own folklore. Iceland’s holiday season is rich with stories of elves and the 13 Yule Lads, mischievous characters who arrive one by one in the lead-up
to Christmas. The blend of natural drama and cultural tradition makes a winter visit something you won’t forget.
Harbin, China
In Harbin, ice becomes art.
Each year, the city hosts the worldfamous Ice and Snow Festival, where towers, sculptures, and even entire buildings are carved from blocks of ice and lit up in vivid colour. There's an ice amusement park, too, and food stalls serving everything from spicy skewers to hearty dumplings.
Russian influence lingers in the city’s architecture and cuisine, adding another layer of interest. Temperatures can drop below –35°C, so dress for deep winter.
Canada
Few places do winter like Canada. Whistler is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders, with varied terrain and a lively après-ski scene. Think alpine lodges, open fires, and a reliable snowfall that draws visitors from around the world.
For wildlife lovers, Churchill in Manitoba is one of the best places to see polar bears in their natural habitat. Or head further north on an Arctic cruise, where the frozen wilderness might offer glimpses of walruses, Arctic foxes, and even narwhals.
Niseko, Japan
Harbin, China
Italian soul, Kiwi style
Discover a modern taste of Italy with a family legacy at Coco’s Trattoria.
WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT
Alove for Italian cuisine runs in the family for owners of the new and beautifully modern Coco’s Trattoria. Chloe Meredith and Nik Zoraja met while working at one of his family's restaurants in Matamata, one of three Italian restaurants owned by Nik’s parents. He was in the kitchen, she worked front of house. Fittingly, Nik’s parents met the same way: chef and waitress, side by side.
Hospitality has long been the family business. While the family's Mount Maunganui eatery recently changed hands, the family still owns the Matamata and Ohakune spots. Now, Chloe and Nik have stepped out on their own with Coco’s.
“We’re really lucky everything has run so smoothly since opening in November last year,” says Chloe. “Our team came with us from previous roles, so they know how we work. It made things seamless, especially with a baby on the way!”
That baby, little Enzo, was just nine weeks old when UNO sat down to chat. “We decided to do it all at once — open a restaurant and have a baby,” Chloe laughs.
Coco’s marks new territory for the pair. “We weren’t sure about opening inside a mall. We’ve always been in niche areas and hadn’t worked with a large corporation like Bayfair before. But the support they gave us made it all possible.”
The move has paid off. Steady foot traffic has kept them busy, and they’re looking forward to winter,
when cravings for comforting pasta and slow-cooked meats kick in.
When the UNO team visited on a sunny autumn afternoon, two things stood out immediately: the authenticity of the food, and the speed it arrived. Within minutes, the table was brimming with fresh pasta, Napoli-style pizza, Italian snacks, and rich, slow-cooked dishes.
“It’s been a learning curve,” says Chloe. “We’ve never done a sharing-style menu like this. In past restaurants it was entrée, then main. But sharing works well in a faster-paced setting like this.”
Despite its mall location, Coco’s doesn’t feel like it’s in one. With a refined fit-out and a thoughtful menu, it delivers a full restaurant experience.
“While we’re quite traditional, we always say we’re Italian-style, inspired by Italian cuisine, but with a Kiwi twist. For example, traditional Italian pasta isn’t very meaty, but Kiwis love meat, so we adapt.”
Adding to the authenticity, two of their chefs and two front-of-house staff are from Italy. “They often say it reminds them of home. That’s the best feedback we could get.”
Though Coco’s is their first solo venture, Chloe and Nik have brought years of experience, and genuine passion, to the table. Balancing business and new parenthood, they’ve created a space that blends tradition, warmth and a modern take on what great Italian dining should feel like.
COCOSTRATTORIA.CO.NZ
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