December ebook 2014

Auckland’s Boutique Magazine.

HAS ARRIVED IN NEW ZEALAND

•Contemporary gift ideas • Fe s t i v e h a m r e c i p e s • Me r r y C h r i s t m a s f r o m Ve r v e

December 2014 — FASHION BEAUTY HEALTH HOME ARTS FOOD WINE TRAVEL SOCIETY

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TAKE THE EASY OPTION TAKE AIRBUS EXPRESS

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 4

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Weekend Peak EVERY 15 MIN *

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Times can vary depending on traffic conditions.

For Off Peak Schedules, please check timetables Online — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 5

Seasons Greetings There’s a rule amongst the teams that compete in the Grand Prix, and that is: “until the music stops, no one sits down.”

I have to admit that the past year has felt a bit like this – in that the music never stopped and there was almost never (if ever!) a chance to sit down. And I guess there are many of you out there that feel the same. So lets give thanks for the festive summer break all of us living in New Zealand hang out for each year. A time to reestablish contacts left fallow, and a time to reconnect to and rejoice in all that is good about our lives: our families, the kiwi summer and all that it brings, and space to cogitate and dream, if only for a few weeks. I know that I am looking forward to it with intensity. In closing I would like to wish you all, a very Merry Christmas and a brilliant New Year.

Fran

Well, 2014 is nearly over – its been an amazing year for me personally with my two sons getting married and my daughter coming home from New York, so for me 2014 is signified by travel and celebration.

Verve has also grown, with positive, enthusiastic people joining our small team!

I am looking forward to Christmas day with friends and family joining us for a day of laughter, music, dancing and festive food. I wish all our Verve readers a happy Christmas !

Jude xx

2014 was a year of change for me – meeting my amazing partner Jay at the beginning of the year and changing jobs to join the Verve team in June — a year of new love and new friends. For the first time in a while I am thoroughly happy in both my personal and work life: it’s all about the right balance and embracing change wholeheartedly, learning, living and loving every step of the journey. To our readers and advertisers, Merry Christmas: be happy and see you in what promises to be an awesome 2015. :) Debbie

2014 has been a great year, hopefully 2015 will be even better! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Jennifer

Happy Holidays

VerveMagazine — Editors-in-chief: Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Writers: Jamie Desplaces and Angus St Clair Brown Layout Design: J. Parker Contributors: Paris Mitchell, Melissa Kachelhoffer, Jackie O’Fee, Billy Aiken, Elizabeth Allen, Jennifer Sheil, Katy Powell, Aimee Robinson Subscriptions: www.vervemagazine.co.nz/subscribe.html Intern: Danni Wang

VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free community/ lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in the following areas: Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Meadowbank, Epsom, Mission Bay, Kohimarama, Herne Bay and Stonefields.

Copies of Verve Magazine are also available from: Parnell Inc, The Strand Vet, Home Ideas Centre, Just Rentals – Meadowbank, Vincent – Nuffield St. Newmarket, Constant Cravings, Barfoot & Thompson Parnell, Quest Hotels – Parnell, Remuera, and Newmarket, Parnell Community Centre and Library, Verve Café, Little Nuffield, S’pacific – Devonport, and Level 1, 430 Broadway, Newmarket (opposite Mini showroom). Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in E-book format.

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any liability for inaccuracies that may occur. The views and suggestions expressed in this magazine are those of individual contributors and are not necessarily supported by Verve Magazine Ltd. Verve is printed by Webstar and distributed by TOE Distribution. www.vervemagazine.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 6

An injury meant I spent a good chunk of 2014 in bed and on crutches. I’ve had to give up running, but have discovered the joys of swimming, cycling, yoga and meditation. Maybe everything does happen for a reason.

I learned a lot about myself, but, more importantly, I learned that the small circle of friends I have here, on the other side of the world from home, are the best a man could wish for, and I thank them. To our dear readers, a very Merry Christmas, we’ll see you on the other side.

Jamie

Published by Verve Magazine Ltd. Level 1, 430 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 PO Box 99-288, Newmarket, Auckland 1149 GST: 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (Print) ISSN 2253-1319 (Online) Advertising enquiries: P: +64 9 520 5939 E: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz, debbie@vervemagazine.co.nz and fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Editorial enquiries: P: +64 9 520 5939 E: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz, jude@vervemagazine.co.nz

Seeking Waiters, Runners & Bartenders.

Opening early 2015 Hiring mid-January 2015

Maître d’ & Duty Manager positions also available.

Send a current CV to cooljob@newparnellrestaurant.co.nz

NEED A COOL JOB? 196 PARNELL ROAD

It’s big. It’s chic. It’s fun. And we want you to be part of it.

Hospitality skills and experience will help you stand out from the crowd.

The team behind The Blue Breeze Inn and MooChowChow seek local talent to join our soon-to-be-opening flagship restaurant in Parnell. We’re after enthusiastic hospo folk with a love of smooth service, lip-smacking food and killer cocktails.

This is your chance to become part of our family of action-packed, fashion- forward restaurants, with excellent opportunities and support for further career progression.

All applications considered.

Wahooo!

We look forward to hearing from you.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 7

TEAM MCMILLAN OPENS NEW ZEALAND’S FIRST BMW iBRAND SHOWROOM Gorgeous silver-clad models, billowing blue fog, pulsating music and revolutionary electric BMW cars – what’s not to like?! This impressive scene captivated VIP guests at the opening of the first BMW i dealership in New Zealand, including Nina Englert, Managing Director of BMW Group New Zealand and Minister of Transport, Hon Simon Bridges.

Team McMillan BMW Dealer Principal, Ian Gibson hosted the evening, which culminated in the stunning BMW i3 and i8 electric vehicles being revealed in the country’s first dedicated premium electric vehicle showroom. Their arrival now completes the full suite of BMW models available at the dealership located at 7-15 Great South Road, Newmarket, and already seventeen customers have – sight unseen and without a test drive – ordered either an i3 or i8, and were also duly acknowledged on the night.

girls presenting the stars of the show – the spectacular BMW i3 and i8: born electric, and yours for $83,500 and $278,000 respectively.

Team McMillan BMW have very limited numbers of both models available right now — or for a vehicle built to customer specifications, orders are being taken now for 2015 delivery.

To enquire further or to take a test drive in either the i3 or i8 demonstrator vehicles, please call Gavin Penfold, New BMW Sales Manager on 09 524 3300.

“Like all concept cars we see and get excited about, they are always futuristic,” said Mr Gibson from the podium. “The i3 and i8 look exactly like the concepts, and may well change the architecture and direction of design for future mobility.”

He then recounted his visit last October to Leipzig, Germany – home of the dedicated iBrand manufacturing facility, where wind turbines generate 100% of the electricity required to power the entire assembly plant. “This was the first time I had seen the actual i3 and i8… and became the most excited I have ever been with the addition of a new model to our range.”

This excitement continued with his first drive of the i3 through slalom and speed trials, then through the countryside and finally the autobahn where a top speed of 153km/h was effortlessly achieved on a number of occasions.

Closer to home, Mr Gibson and his wife took the dealership’s own i8 on a tour of Auckland hotspots last month, during which there were fears for their safety (and the i8’s) as drivers ignored the road ahead to stare at the stunning vehicle.

A recent addition to the existing Team McMillan BMW showroom, the entire i showroom was carefully freighted in modular form from BMW Germany – and as is mandatory for i showrooms worldwide, was accompanied by a BMW i showroom fit-out specialist to ensure installation met the exacting BMW iBrand corporate image guidelines.

Construction progressed behind purpose-built walls to minimise disruption to the wider BMW showroom, and generated much curiosity from visitors. With the walls finally down the day before opening night, a stunning futuristic interior was exposed — and much to the delight of pedestrians and staff, the i3 and i8 appeared and were gingerly driven into position under the cool blue lights.

Back on opening night, formalities are now over… the pulsating heartbeat and sound of a helicopter flying overhead directs all attention to the huge plastic curtain shielding the i showroom as it fills with blue fog. The curtain lifts, revealing four silver-clad

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 8

Left to Right: Nina Englert (BMW Group New Zealand Managing Director) Simon Bridges (Minister of Energy & Resources, Minister of Transport & Associate Minister for Climate Change Issues) Ian Gibson (Team McMillan BMW Dealer Principal)

THE NEW MINI. NOW WITH 5 DOORS.

JUST LANDED IN NEW ZEALAND. If you have always wanted just a bit more MINI, the all new MINI Hatch 5 Door will be right up your street.

With more doors, more seats, more legroom in the back and more luggage space - But no sacrificing of the go-kart handling that MINI is famous for.

The all new MINI Hatch 5 Door has advanced new technology, new engines and driving modes, new safety features and a stylish new interior cockpit design. This roadworthy go-kart starts from just $37,200 drive away for a Cooper and $45,200 for a Cooper S including MINI’s 3 Year Scheduled Servicing, Warranty Plan & Roadside Assistance.

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It’s the most fun you can have in a 5 door on four wheels. Contact Auckland MINI Garage to find out more or book a test drive today.

AUCKLAND MINI GARAGE. 381-383 Broadway, Newmarket. 0800 548 352. MINI.CO.NZ

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 9

NEIL GUSSEY W E D D I N G S • P O R T R A I T S • FA S H I O N

10

36

35

29

39

35

CONTENTS UP FRONT

FASHION

BUSINESS + SOCIETY

10

47

Gulliver. Giant of the Japanese Used Car Market

Gems, Drums and Rock ‘n Roll

96

16

Choosing Swimwear that flatters your figure

Training Muscles and Mind

20 Honda Civic Eurosport

49

Swapping the Big Smoke for the Beach

Hal Lindes and the Dire Straits Years

BEAUTY + HEALTH 132

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

73

Tantrastic

23

Cuthbert Interiors.

35 Years in Business

New Year New Baby

78

From Westfield Newmarket

28 From Verve

Newmarket Gives Away Thousands of $$$

42

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 10

98

HOME+DESIGN 67

W W W. B E L L E P H O T O G R A P H Y. C O . N Z GUSSEY@XTRA.CO.NZ 0 2 74 8 5 1 9 9 3

Alex Herbert of Kingswood Skis

From Parnell

44 To win

106

HEALTH & BEAUTY 108

FOOD 4 THOUGHT 85

Creative Ideas for Christmas Ham Leftovers

Verve Chats to Mrs Claus

115

MacKenzie Kench – Sailing Solo

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 11

GULLIVER GIANT OF THE JAPANESE USED CAR MARKET Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

Last month saw the grand opening of Newmarket’s newest showroom, Gulliver International. The funky car dealership on Broadway promises to cut out the middleman, purchasing quality used cars directly from previous owners in Japan. It’s a revolutionary concept. The showroom, which displays cars and offers sofa-clad lounges and online facilities, is the first of many planned to open down under.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 12

“Customers can choose from thousands of online vehicles, with every car four to six weeks away by sea,” says Yu Nagai, the company’s business development team manager. “If they’re already on the water, they can be delivered in a matter of days. We only deal with the very best of Japan’s second-hand vehicles, each one chosen by local skilled and experienced staff.” Mr Nagai believes few ever get to see his country’s most popular models. Gulliver, Japan’s premier retailer of used vehicles, also stocks US and European cars: “and each one comes with a full, guaranteed service history, available for buyers to inspect.”

“We’ve been in business for twenty years,” says corporate officer Ho Chol, who flew over from Tokyo for the grand opening. “One of the company’s founding principles was to change the perception of used cars sales, and we did. We are trusted. We wanted to be a giant, hence the name, and though we are number one in Japan, we realise it is important to remain humble.” New Zealand, he goes on, is one of the main importers of Japanese motors and so launching in Auckland was the “obvious choice.”

There are sales reps in the showroom, but are there only as and when needed. Customers are left to relax with complimentary coffee in the comfort of the lounge, browsing through car lists on Apple Macs. “They didn’t want it to feel daunting, they were adamant that it be homely and welcoming,” says designer Robert Macfarlane. “I wanted to push New Zealand made and designed furniture and furnishings wherever I could. I’ve used Kiwi wool where I can. All of the ceramics are from Form & Fable, who are a local Auckland team, and the plant stands are from Trestle Union, again from New Zealand.” All furniture came from Backhouse Interiors, who Robert praises highly for their commitment to sponsoring local design. The feeling’s mutual.

“Rob’s a really thoughtful designer with great vision,” says Backhouse sales executive Michelle Weir. “We’re really thrilled with how it all came together. Combining the New Zealand design aesthetic with Gulliver’s unique approach has resulted in an inviting, hospitable environment which is a pleasure to visit.

New Zealand is really fortunate to have Gulliver here now.”

Robert has previously lived in Japan and speaks the language fluently. His familiarity with the nation helped him to, “really get under the skin” of the project, something which he describes as a fusion of Japanese and Kiwi culture. The darkness of the stunning hardwood timbers, he says, are to reflect the New Zealand landscape, while the floating white lighting represents our land of the long white cloud: “the carpenter, Yoshi Suetake, has been fantastic. He runs Woody Life and has a great eye. You can talk to him about fine design detail. He knows exactly what you mean and executes it perfectly.”

Gulliver International plan to invest widely in developing their business here. Thirty new dealerships are proposed within New Zealand, each costing approximately half a million dollars.

“We are determined to bring the kind of informed options that has made it the market leader among demanding Japanese consumers,” says Mr Nagai. “I believe the company culture of Gulliver International will make a refreshing change to the current New Zealand market. Our model is all about reputation, integrity and winning customer confidence. These principles make us friends in Japan every day and soon will be doing so in New Zealand too.”

Gulliver New Zealand 436 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland (Corner Mahuru Street) Freephone 0800 22 1616 Phone 09 522 4582 www.glv.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 13

MOLA

BY CAMERON FOGGO

a 19 earle street, parnell, auckland t 09 309 0500 e auckland@backhousenz.com w backhousenz.com

MACFARLANE DESIGN www.macfarlanedesign.co.nz interior + spatial

1970s house renovation — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 14

Get a softer look to permanent cosmetics ...without machines.

By SofTap® Certified trainer Michelle Toulson of Hollywood Eyes Permanent Makeup in Auckland.

SofTap® Permanent Cosmetics is the most natural way to look your best, 24/7.

Professionals specializing in the SofTap® hand method use 100% disposable hand tools to gently and delicately implant permanent color into the skin. This method is non-invasive, highly controlled, and produces the most natural looks you will ever see in permanent makeup.

SofTap® professionals can give you anything from a soft, virtually undetectable beauty enhancement to a complete reconstruction of missing eyebrows. Permanent eyeliner is gentle, long lasting, and permanent lips are soft and full. The results are so natural you have to see it to believe it.

Visit www.hollywoodeyes.co.nz for training opportunities at Hollywood Eyes.

Hollywood Eyes

P E R M A N E N T M A K E U P 0 8 0 0 4 B R OW S — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 15

iPhone 6 and Carryover Data.

The perfect combination. iPhone 6 16GB, $29 upfront and $40 per month.

On a $39 or above Freedom Term plan.

Get it on a $39 Freedom Term plan today.

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Carryover Plan Freedom Term

400

Carryover Minutes to NZ and Aussie

Unlimited* Text to NZ and Aussie

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Hurry, visit 2degrees Newmarket at 255 Broadway today.

Stocks are limited.

Mobile Repayment Option (MRO) only available on the selected handset when you sign up to a $39 or above Plan on a Freedom Term and pay $29 upfront.

Monthly Plan charges apply in addition to the mobile repayment price. Handset offer while stocks last. Handset RRP $999. If you terminate or move from your

— eligible Plan during the 24 month MRO term, you will be required to immediately repay the outstanding balance on your phone. Plan and MRO conditions apply.

VERVE DECEMBER 2014 //minutes 16 and text. Premium rate numbers and voicemail excluded. NZ data usage only. Calls rounded up to the nearest minute. *Fair Use Standard NZ and Australian Policy applies. For full conditions visit 2degreesmobile.co.nz. TM and Š 2014 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

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number ONE 2013 SUBARU LEGACY B4 7,000kms “B-Sport 2.5i B Sport Eye-Sight” $32,405 0800 22 1616 436 Broadway Newmarket www.glv.co.nz info@glv.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 17

TRAINING MUSCLES & MIND Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I’m disciplined in a lot of things, including dance, and I can honestly say that boxing is the best thing I’ve ever done both mentally and physically,” says renowned Auckland personal trainer Liz K. “And Sam Manson is one of the best trainers I’ve ever come across.” With summer underway, Liz believes there’s no better method to both lose weight and sculpt that perfect shape.

“People don’t expect women to be boxing,” says Sam Manson, “but it offers a short sharp way of getting in shape.

It’s great for stamina and you leave each session feeling as though you’ve trained your muscles and your mind. Each session is different, so you’re kept on your toes in every sense.”

Aged 15, Sam weighed 115kg. His mother had been boxing for fitness for 20 years and he decided to attend some classes with her. He lost weight fast, fell in love with the sport and trained with some of the nation’s premier pugilists and their coaches. Now a NZQA certified personal trainer with the New Zealand Institute of Health and Fitness, Sam is offering one-on-one lessons and small group sessions for ladies out of Newmarket’s Fitness Department. There is absolutely no pressure to spar or to step into the ring, though the option is available. In fact, Sam says he’d love to discover the next champion Kiwi female.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 18

“I felt very self-conscious about boxing,” says Liz. “I was 46 at the time, Sam was 21. But the thing is, he makes you feel so comfortable, you are immediately put at ease. There are lots of laughs, it’s fun, he’s engaging and you absolutely will not feel embarrassed. It’s a great bonding session for a group of girls too.”

Skipping, balance exercises and core endurance techniques are combined with various boxing drills. “There is no typical day or regime,” says Sam. “It eliminates monotony. Boxing is not all about brutality. It’s far more technical, far more complex. Though, it is of course a great stress reliever too!” Sam promises an unintimidating environment. Small classes reduce the risk of injury as he can dedicate full attention to his clients to ensure techniques are performed correctly.

“It is far more beneficial doing the right exercises for 45 minutes or so than a twohour slog,” says Sam. “You’ll lose more weight and tone up much faster.”

Sam has recently finished teaching a term at Mount Roskill Grammar School, and plans to extend his private classes to youngsters, too. “I push it with the kids that boxing is about self-control,” he says.

“That there should never ever be any reason to hit someone except in the ring.

I’m not about teaching people how to fight, I’m teaching them about discipline, about self-control, about respect for other people.”

Courtney Simpson has been training with Sam for ten months. The 25-year-old was introduced to him by Liz. “I’d always been a gym-goer and usually stuck to the cross trainer and tread mill,” she says. “But after two sessions with Sam I decided that boxing was for me.” Courtney had never felt fitter or more energised: “I wanted to get stronger and faster, I wanted to feel fit, lose weight and get toned. It took just a couple of months of training with Sam twice a week before I started to see serious results.”

“It really isn’t just about punching something,” adds Liz. “It’s about the range of exercises involved, it’s a beautiful sport.

It allows you to clear your mind, it’s so invigorating and nothing will tone your tummy faster. I took it up with a personal trainer because I wanted to do something different, something interesting, and boy did it change my body. I just wish I’d taken it up 20 years ago, I might have been a world champion by now!”

GET YOUR BODY INTO SHAPE FOR SUMMER NOW GRAB A BUNCH OF GIRLFRIENDS GATHER THE KIDS TOGETHER ANY AGE GROUP ONE-ON-ONES FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT SAM: PHONE: 021 131 4925 WEBSITE: WWW.MANSONBOXING.COM EMAIL: SAM@MANSONBOXING.COM S S R M A N SO N @ YA H O O.CO. N Z | | 02 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 7 C A R LTO N G O R E R OA D, N E W M A R K E T VERVE DECEMBER 2014 //

— 19

THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE DETAIL

This we do.

Amy Hain or Chris Reeves anytime Thisisiswhat what weCall do.

Call Amy Hain or Chris Reeves

anytime

Your Parnell Property Specialists Your Parnell Property Specialists Amy Hain 021 878 435 | Chris Reeves 021 942 089 | www.parnellproperty.co.nz Bayleys Real Estate Ltd. Licensed under the REAA 2008

Boutique Journeys for Solo Travellers Fully escorted small group tours home ideas with a maximum of 18 passengers Our tours are exclusively designed for solo travellers, so come and share the joy of travel with people just like you.

June:

Belgium, Holland, Scandanavia & Russia

August:

The Mediterranean

October:

Hawaii

Call us for more details: Shelley Robinson 520 5600 or 021 494 884 Shelley.robinson@worldtravellers.co.nz

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— VERVEitd0367 DECEMBER 2014 // Verve 20 Solo Travellers Ad.indd 1

28/11/14 4:21 pm

Manning Funeral Cottage Memorial Service For many people, the approaching festive season, brings much sadness, as they adjust to life without a much loved family member. It is occasions such as Christmas, birthdays or other family celebrations that often highlight the void that that person has left in their life, or the lives of others.

Manning Funeral Cottage is this year holding its first

memorial service to honour and acknowledge those who have gone before us. The service will be a simple, but poignant one, followed by light refreshments.

When: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, 2 December 2014.

If your family have been cared for by Manning Funeral Cottage in the past, and you would like to attend, please phone Martha-Louise on 377 9790 with numbers attending, before November 28th.

Martha-Louise will be available 24 hours a day throughout the Christmas and New Year period for families wishing to make, or discuss funeral arrangements.

A Boutique Funeral Service (09) 377 9790 31 George Street, Newmarket

Where: The Upper Room, (just down from the funeral cottage), 10A Clayton Street, Newmarket.

www.manningfunerals.net.nz

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ .

LIFE ON TOP SOLD

SOLD

Let Sharene’s professionalism and experience showcase your Luxury Penthouse with the exceptional New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty brand and unsurpassed links, together ensuring great success.

“Sharene knows her profession well and achieves fantastic results, the outcome of our Auction was outstanding – we cannot recommend her highly enough.“ Megan Flanagan, Remuera Vendor

SOLD SHARENE TEMPLE +64 27 224 6045 sharene.temple@sothebysrealty.com

nzsothebysrealty.com

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 21

HONDA EURO CIVIC LIMITED We had the extreme pleasure of driving the HONDA Euro Civic Limited for the painfully short period of three days. The memory of the experience is still firmly etched into my mind.

“

Once in motion, a simple touch button on the steering wheel and sit back, foot free and smoothly coast back to your previously desired speed.

This particular edition of the Civic is loaded with all the mod cons you would expect in a new car with today’s technology.

Things such as heated seats and a cruise control feature, easy enough for the oldest of old school drivers to master — what a great feature to enjoy in an automatic. Once in motion, a simple touch button on the steering wheel and sit back, foot free and smoothly coast back to your previously desired speed.

My beautiful co-driver and I drove from Auckland to Kariotahi Beach and spent the night at the awesome Castaways Resort, which sits on the cliff tops of the stunning Waiuku coast. What a perfect destination for the wheels we were driving to get there.

Once checked-in we got straight back into the Civic to tackle the roads up to the lighthouse, and what a sensational drive — windy roads, long straight roads and smiles all round as we enjoyed the depths of this incredible car with a huge fun factor.

The eighteen-inch alloys with low profile tyres ensured this machine firmly stuck to the road. A real head-turner too, nice and low, tinted glass windows and beautifully sculpted seats to glue into.

Just a lovely vehicle — I actually miss it!

By the way, I’d like to thank the Verve team, and of course Honda for giving me the opportunity to drive such awesome motorcars, and I hope you, the reader, have enjoyed the reviews. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Jay Stott

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 22

APROPOS 30302

Limited edition. Unlimited style.

The all new Limited Edition Euro Civic 5 door hatch. Matt black 18” Hydrogen Alloys, chrome detailing and sleek, sporty styling takes this hatch to a whole new level. For a closer look, drop in or visit honda.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 23

UNLIMITED POTENTIAL

5 MINUTES WITH TRISH WILLOUGHBY Verve’s roving reporter chats to Trish Willoughby of UP. Verve: You have been in property management for over a decade. Which aspect of the job do you most enjoy?

Trish: Finding the perfect fit — tenant to property. If you get it right the first time, it certainly makes for stress free management.

V: Trish, you must be quite an expert on what to look for when purchasing an investment property. If you had to distill your knowledge on this subject into three basic points, what would they be?

JUST SOLD

EPSOM 50 OWENS ROAD

T: 1. Area. 2. Property in above average condition. 3. Be prepared to accept certain maintenance issues as they arise.

V: What do you look for when selecting tenants for the properties you manage?

T: 1. Individuals who show they intend to treat the property as if it was their own. 2. References. 3. Getting to know the prospective tenant by spending a little time with them. 4. Avoiding ‘open’ viewings.

V: What do you consider your point of difference to be?

T: Basic, good old-fashioned communication with both owners and tenants.

4

2

3

1

1

5+

2196m2

VENDOR’S TESTIMONIAL We are grateful to Neil Bailey for his assistance selling our famly home. His friendly and professional manner was low key and considerate and we enjoyed working with him.

His management of the sale process came with as little intrusion as possible. He set targets and met them, keeping us informed of progress at all times.

4 2 3 1 1 5+ 2196m2 We were very pleased with the way the property was presented and the final outcome.

We have no hesitation in recommending Neil to anyone looking for a ‘top class’ agent.

— Mick and Heather

NEIL BAILEY

LICENSED AGENT REAA 2008

We have people like these, lined up to rent a house like yours!

We need rental properties in the central Auckland Region, ranging from two - four bedrooms, from $500 - $1500 plus per week - now.

Phone me now, I’ll respond immediately.

Trish Willoughby Property Manager 021 540 032

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 24

As a result I have met several buyers wanting to live in this area. If you would consider selling, Phone me now, I’ll respond immediately!

Neil Bailey M 021 556 828 T 631 5571 neil@uprealestate.co.nz LICENSED AGENT REAA 2008

THE THOUGHTFUL GIFT GUIDE BROUGHT TO YOU BY WESTFIELD NEWMARKET Presents should not be picked by size or sum.

In the spirit of giving we would like to guide you towards a gift chosen with thought.

Flick the page for our items selected with insight, love and care. Because on Christmas morning it’s not about what you gave. It’s why you gave it.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 25

GRANDMA She always has a treat waiting for you. Why not wrap up a treat for her?

TH OU GH TS FO R HE R @Pandora

@Cinderella Beauty @Forever New

MUM Give her everything she happily gave up for you – time, relaxation and jewellery. @Pascoes

@T2

@T2

@Trenery

@Colestown Chocolates

@Merchant

GIRLFRIEND Prove you listen when it’s important with that watch she pointed out a year ago.

@Merchant

@Trenery

@Thomas Sabo

@Gusto & Grace

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 26

@Mister Minit

@Trenery

@Michael Hill

GRANDAD Modernise grandad’s gadgets and pass up a new family heirloom.

@Thomas Sabo

DAD Instead of giving dad a hard time, why not give him a new style?

@Life Pharmacy @Marcs

@Trenery

THOUGHTS F O R H IM

@Trenery

BOYFRIEND A new wardrobe provides two presents in one – he gets into the latest looks and he gets out of shopping.

@Overland Men

@Marcs

@Life Pharmacy

All items are subject to the relevant retailers’ terms of trade and are available only while stocks last.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 27

@Whitcoulls

RT NZ HELP US SUPPO EED C H IL D R E N IN N

THOUGHTS FOR KIDS

y this Spread the jo with giving season nation a gold coin do pping at our gift wra ‘GIF T’ to booths or text te $3. na 2448 and do

r suppor ting n The Red fo Thanks to Ru rvice. se te na our text to do

CHRISTMAS KIDS Give them a gift that inspires time together and memories to come.

@Smiggle

@Forever New

@Smiggle

@Bed Bath N’ Table

GET SET Adorn your guest area with Christmas cheer and no one will notice if you burn the Christmas turkey.

@Whitcoulls

DECORATE THE HOME @Bed Bath N’ Table

@Gusto & Grace

@Country

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 28

Road

C H R IS T M A S W R A P P IN G FOR YOU @Michael Hill

@Cue

@Decjuba

@Ma x

@Veronika Maine @Thomas Sabo

@Scarpa

@Portmans

FESTIVE LOOK

BECOME A VIP Sign up online or in-centre to receive the latest in fashion, competitions and invitations to exclusive style events in your inbox.

Embrace the festivities from head to toe. Our only tip is to keep Christmas lunch top of mind.

@Kookai

WESTFIELD.CO.NZ /NEWMARKET

@Scarpa All items are subject to the relevant retailers’ terms of trade and are available only while stocks last.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 29

VERVE’S CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2014

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 30

ARTEDOMUS Beautiful tiles, wooden flooring and homeware from around the world VISIT || WWW.ARTEDOMUS.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 1118 GREAT NORTH ROAD , POINT CHEVALIER PHONE || 09 361 1567

01 — BACI GLASS | LARGE: 64CM $62.50 | MEDIUM: 50CM $49.95 | SMALL: 40CM $44.00 02 — CHINESE STYLE ROUND BOX 4” $38.00 03 — JAPANESE QUINCE LUXURY BAR SOAP 6OZ $17.40 04 — ROUND FANCY EDGE MIRROR 1000MM $862.50 05 — TOSCA AND BASTILLE CERAMIC VASES FROM $44.50 - $85.00 06 — CLASSIC DOVE | SMALL $12.45 | MEDIUM $18.70 LARGE $28.70 + CATHEDRAL MIRROR , SMALL $112.24 VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

B A R O N & B U X T O N L E AT H E R G O O D S C A R R O L B OY E S

Field tested, bloke tested Field & Stream has been the sportsman’s friend for more than 100 years. We pride ourselves in offering quality accessories for those that enjoy the great outdoors. Be confident that each kit is made from durable materials and has been tested to ensure it will give you many years of enjoyment.

Now exclusive to the Buxton shop, come visit us in-store to see the full product range.

A gift every woman would love The hand crafted lifestyle product, which celebrates art and the pure enjoyment of everyday life.

Carrol Boyes is a South African artist creating distinctive sculptures in a fusion of metals to use and adorn your home and office. Each piece is the perfect choice of gift for the discerning woman.

Now available online in New Zealand or at a selected retailer near you.

VISIT || WWW.LEATHERGOODS.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 128 APIRANA AVE, AUCKLAND PHONE || 09 528 7052

VISIT || WWW.CARROLBOYES.CO.NZ EMAIL || INFO@CARROLBOYES.CO.NZ PHONE || 09 479 3611

BOLU TEA

An exciting range of rare teas and tea wares The Bolu® Tea range of fragrant loose leaf tea is extensive, spanning eight categories from; black, white, green, oolong, blends, blooms, ayurvedic and wellness, and all so deliciously tempting — judging by the in-store experience, which is an exquisite showcase of award-winning packaging that is a colour-burst of choice.

VISIT || WWW.BOLUTEA.CO.NZ EMAIL || BOLU@BOLUTEA.CO.NZ PHONE || 09 578 0828

B A R O N & B U X T O N L E AT H E R G O O D S

Quality and craftsmanship The Back Road NZ™ range of bags, with its unique New Zealand styling, combines the traditional honest and sturdy values of pioneering kiwis with the demand for “organic” looks. Handmade from traditional tanned leathers, the messenger bag has become an icon for the Back Road collection. A fine example of quality and craftsmanship, Back Road NZ™ is now proud to introduce an extension to its classic overnight bags for the traveller who values great taste and who wants lasting quality. Visit the Buxton shop today for the full range of travel bags, brief bags and satchels.

VISIT || WWW.LEATHERGOODS.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 128 APIRANA AVE, AUCKLAND PHONE || 09 528 7052

Backroad NZ

C H R I S T M A S

FUTURE FEET

ALFRESCO

Celebrate summer with Alfresco Future Feet is New Zealand’s largest children’s footwear store that specialises in fitting children’s shoes from tots to teens. We carry the biggest range of imported and locally made children’s shoes available in New Zealand. Staff at Future Feet are qualified fitters who have been trained by Clark’s Shoes in consultative selling, fitting procedures and basic podiatry. Our people are not only dedicated to giving expert advice, we also provide a quality fitting service for your child.

Alfresco Inexterior Living, is a home and garden store simply not to be missed. Everything about this range of merchandise, suitable for both indoor and outdoor living, is utterly desirable.

While Alfresco is well-known for its unique range of sophisticated outdoor furniture and accessories, it may surprise you that they also carry an amazing array of homewares and items ideal for gift giving.

VISIT || WWW.FUTUREFEET.CO.NZ

VISIT || WWW.ALFRESCOHOMEANDGARDEN.CO.NZ

ADDRESS || CNR JERVOIS AND ST MARYS BAY ROAD, PONSONBY CNR NUFFIELD ST & REMUERA ROAD, NEWMARKET

ADDRESS || 223 PARNELL ROAD, PARNELL

PHONE || 09 378 8880 (PONSONBY), 09 529 2203 (NEWMARKET

PHONE || 09 309 3643

VISIT || WWW.COOLCOWRUGS.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 161 PONSONBY RD (OPPOSITE FIRESTATION) PHONE || 021 0292 0488

Concept Pop Up Shop 161 Ponsonby Rd (opposite firestation) Open Until Christmas • Natural cow hides $500 • Reindeer hides $460 • Calf hides $95 • Hide cushion covers $85

COOL COW RUGS

Cow Hides / Reindeer Hides / Cow Hide Furniture VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

HARROWSET HALL

VISIT || WWW.HARROWSETHALL.CO.NZ ADDRESS || SHOP 7, 21 NUFFIELD ST, NEWMARKET PHONE || 09 524 4452

Harrowset Hall has an array of Christmas ideas that are sure to please someone special this Christmas.

Scented candles, gorgeous soaps and beautiful nghtwear and robes in cotton, white waffle and silk. If you are looking for something that will remind someone of you every night of the year, consider giving a set of lovely crisp pure cotton sheets from the Casablanca Collection.

HOUSE OF KNIVES

For gifts you’ll want to keep for yourself!

Discover lovely gift items at House of Knives.

Our great selection of kitchen knives includes the F DICK “1905” range with distinctive handles. Also really popular are the German manicure and personal care ranges. Gorgeous manicure sets, sturdy nail scissors, foot rasps, colourful trendy nippers, razors or beautiful quality tweezers — there’s something for everyone.

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

Jasmine & Vanilla Scented Boxed Candles, White Tea & Ginger Scented Tea Lights, Sparkle Heart on a Ribbon, Embroidered Padded Coat Hangers, Red & White Stripe Napkins, Red & White Striped Table Runner, Honeysuckle Soap in Red Rose Box, Set of 4 Pomegranate Orange Scented Tea Lights, Red Glass Fluted Candle Holder with Handle, Cream Ceramic & Glass Bed Necklace with Cross, Silver Wood & Mirrored Glass Picture Frame, Gold Patterned Note Book, Decorative Cross, Red Ceramic Cross on Ceramic Bead Chain, Red Enamel Butterfly & Flower Napkin Rings.

VISIT || WWW.HOUSEOFKNIVES.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 24 MT EDEN ROAD, MT EDEN PHONE || 09 302 2980 || AUCKLAND@HOUSEOFKNIVES.CO.NZ

And don’t you just love the (NexTool) Seahorse? Four items in this new range have just landed, all featuring a bottle opener, wrench, and screwdriver — hang one on your keyring!

And Staub: colourful enamelled cookware with all the advantages of cast iron plus fantastic looks. Suitable for all cooking heat sources!

Pumpkin soup anyone?

LEOPOLD HALL Eclectic Living VISIT || WWW.LEOPOLDHALL.COM ADDRESS || 6 MORROW STREET NEWMARKET PHONE || 09 524 7503 EMAIL || INFO@LEOPOLDHALL.COM

Leopold Hall, a beautiful new store in Newmarket has just opened.

It is all about the `natural home’ and has a strong focus on eco living. In-store you will find pieces in linen, jute, recycled timbers, handmade china and glassware. You will love the feel and experience of this bespoke store, where items are sourced from all around the globe.

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

LE MONDE HOME Creating the essence of home, where tradition and innovation meet in perfect harmony

VISIT || WWW.LE-MONDE.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 69D ST GEORGES BAY ROAD PARNELL AUCKLAND PHONE || 09 377 9518

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

JILL TUCK

TRADE AID

Designer Cushions & Soft Furnishings

Unique artisan treasures

My mother was the most wonderful seamstress, and so I think I started my love affair with textiles when I went to Centerpoint Fabrics on Queen Street with her looking for ball gown material, and I entered into a magical world of colour, texture and sparkles!

I am proud to be back in the industry working for myself and taking over the reins at Jill Tuck, such a well known name for designer cushions. I have new premises in Nuffield Street, Newmarket with parking right outside. We offer a cut, make and trim service as well as designer cushions, rugs, furniture, lamps, reupolstery and curtain making.

The Trade Aid shop is a New Zealand icon, a trove of unique artisan treasures. You can browse through hundreds of delightfully handcrafted products to give, to wear, and to make your home special. Visit Trade Aid for beautiful gifts, exotic foods, and exquisite home wares — genuinely good products, that are sustainable, quality and, of course, fair trade. To make your festive season fair trade, and to give gifts that make you feel good, shop Trade Aid this Christmas www.tradeaid.org.nz.

VISIT || WWW.JILLTUCK.CO.NZ

VISIT || WWW.TRADEAID.ORG.NZ

ADDRESS || 63 NUFFIELD STREET, NEWMARKET. OUR SHOWROOM IS OPEN MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 10-2PM. THURSDAY

BY APPOINTMENT AND SATURDAY 10-3PM PHONE || 09 520 7502 OR 0508CUSHIONS

ADDRESS || 370 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET AND SYLVIA PARK MALL, SYLVIA PARK PHONE || 09 385 3535

DANSK

Kobenstyle

F I X- 8

Fix up someone’s Christmas Inspired by our famous Kiwi ‘can-do’ attitude, Fix-8 is a beautiful range of bangles featuring two interlocking loops made from No.8 wire, each beautifully presented on its very own turf of grass in a gift box — making the perfect pressie!

Fix-8 bangles are available in a range of sizes and are finished in durable, top quality silver.

All are available to purchase from www.fix8.net.nz for RRP of $49.

VISIT || WWW.FIX8.NET.NZ EMAIL || SALLY@FIX8.NET.NZ

PHILIPPI

Copic

DENBY

Antalya

DA N S K , P H I L I P P I , D E N B Y KOBENSTYLE by Dansk — designed in the 1950s by Jens Quistgaard of Denmark, the Kobenstyle enamel cookware range is true retro!

COPIC Candlestick from Philippi — finish your dining table perfectly with this contemporary candleholder from Philippi of Germany.

Denby ANTALYA — English icons Denby Pottery & Monsoon Fashion have collaborated to bring you the Antalya range, caketins pictured VISIT || WWW.RAINESHOMEWARES.CO.NZ PHONE || 09 443 3553

PHONE || 021 333 221 VERVE GIFT GUIDE

REPUBLIC Special somethings for someone special VISIT || WWWW.REPUBLICHOME.COM ADDRESS || 3 POMPALLIER TERRACE, PONSONBY PHONE || 09 361 1137

01 — BRUNE CERAMICS FROM SERAX 02 — OURLIEU CUSHIONS & THROWS 03 — BEACHGOLD RESORTWEAR 04 — AHOY TRADER WALL ART 05 — ROUNDIE BEACH TOWELS 06 — TEARDROP CANDLEHOLDERS VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

DIMPLES

Proudly New Zealand made A visit to the new Dimples store is a must if you’re looking for exclusive New Zealand made babywear. Jane Anne, the founder of Dimples uses her inspiration to design beautiful babywear.

This comes from having 14 children and 23 grandchildren — Jane designs all the Dimples babywear ranges.

VISIT || WWW.DIMPLES.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 14 KENT STREET NEWMARKET PHONE || 09 523 4161

Designing classic shapes, pure colours along with her unique hand embroidered Bee and Rose Bud designs. Complementing the range, Dimples are also stockists of Stokke, Nuna and Kaylula. Be sure to call in to 14 Kent Street, Newmarket. Open 7 days.

Ph 09 523 4161 www.dimples.co.nz

TRUMPS

Trumps have the best selection of gifts in town

VISIT || WWW.TRUMPS.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 320 REMUERA ROAD, REMUERA PHONE || 09 520 1215

TRUMPS have an exquisite range of gifts for every occasion.

Homeware and gifts, linen, tableware, soft funnishings, home accessories, furniture, kitchenware, games. TRUMPS believe they stock the secret source of gifts for the person who has everything.

Wedding Registry also available.

TRUMPS Xmas hours are: Monday-Friday: 9:00am to 5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Sunday: 10:00am to 4:00pm

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

TREES Bespoke furniture and unique gifts

VISIT || WWW.TREESFURNITURE.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 430 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET PHONE || 09 529 9933

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

S W E D I S H F U R N I T U R E I K E A PA R A L L E L I M P O R T E R For all of your furniture solutions at great prices

VISIT || WWW.SWEDISHFURNITURE.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 77 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET, AUCKLAND PHONE || 09 523 5232

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

C O S I FA N T U T T E

A trove of exquisite temptation Cosi Fan Tutte has just opened a new store at 134 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead to complement their Devonport store. Cosi Fan Tutte is a boutique gift store that is a sensory experience — the scent of a beautiful hand-poured candle wafts out to greet you... the music enhances the experience.... and then you find yourself surrounded by layers of beauty. “We love French and vintage looking objects, especially those with an eco story attached. We are eclectic and full of surprising treasures you never knew you coveted! Andrea, the owner, is passionate about everything she stocks in her store.

T R E N Z S E AT E R

Furniture, interior design, drapery, wallpaper, blinds

VISIT || WWW.COSIFANTUTTE.CO.NZ ADDRESS || 73 VICTORIA ROAD, DEVONPORT PHONE || 09 446-0750

The staff at Cosi Fan Tutte are also passionate about their jobs and go out of their way to help you and then giftwrap beautifully with a bow and a flower.... and now for Christmas a gorgeous red twine and mistletoe. The Cosi bag is so beautiful you’ll want to buy something just to take one home.

Cosi Fan Tuttes hours are Tuesday to Friday 10-5pm and Sat/Sun 10-4pm, opening Monday in December. Devonport store is open 7 days from 10-5pm.

VISIT || WWW.TRENZSEATER.COM ADDRESS || 80 PARNELL RD, PARNELL, AUCKLAND PHONE || 09 303 4151

Audrey Hepburn Prints set of four $743 – The Audrey Hepburn set of four prints are a great black and white collection of prints of the film and fashion icon, regarded as one of the most naturally beautiful woman of all time.

Supper Club Vase – available in large (48cm $341), medium (38cm $219), small (28cm $120). These ceramic nickel finished vases are a stunning addition to any interior. They look great grouped together or as an individual item.

Veracruz Large Stool – Nickel $897. This stool is a stunning design for the lounge and can also double as an extra table as well as a seat.

Hekla Log - $929 – The Hekla Log is a unique talking point for your living room. It is a solid piece of timber with burnt edges which have been sealed so you don’t need to worry about grubby hands!

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

C H R I S T M A S

THE PERSONAL CONCIERGE

Removes stress from busy lives

S A R A N N E FA B R I C S

Made to measure: bridal / mother of the bride / mother of the groom

The Personal Concierge Company has the perfect solution to your Christmas gift dilemma! Gift vouchers so that you can say thank you and Merry Christmas to your staff, clients, family or friends.

Professional and personal concierge consultants that complete your to do list, run errands and help with other projects/events around the office or home. The gift of time — the perfect gift!

Available from www.simplifyyourlife.co.nz or phone 0800 111 574.

Faye Marmont creates beautiful bridal gowns, alterations made to pre-made gowns, advice and supplies accessories, including jewellery, headgear, veils, and tiaras. Faye can also design and create bridesmaids and flower girl dresses; and tailored Mother of the bride outfits. Faye can create gowns for special occasions including school balls, important events and parties.

VISIT || WWW.SIMPLIFYYOURLIFE.CO.NZ

VISIT || WWW.SARANNEFABRICS.CO.NZ OR WWW.FABRICAUCKLAND.CO.NZ

PHONE || 0800 111 574

ADDRESS || THE VILLAGE GREEN, 413 REMUERA ROAD, REMUERA PHONE || 09 522 0180

ASHLEY & CO

Beautiful and functional product

ALFRESCO

Accessorise with Alfresco

Committed to creating beautiful and functional products for the home. The challenge: discovering the new old. By utilising our unique perspectives about art and design, Ashley & Co redefines traditional household objects and ideas, giving them a contemporary twist. From the packaging to the ingredients, the products produced are both for one’s enjoyment and importantly, necessary to the completeness of ones home.

Our ever-popular Original Panama hats are back in store for summer! Hand woven in Ecuador, our hats are cool, lightweight and long wearing: In a range of different colours and variety of options to suit every need, you can choose from the classics or jazz it up with something a little bit different.

VISIT || WWW.ASHLEYANDCO.CO.NZ

VISIT || WWW.ALFRESCOHOMEANDGARDEN.CO.NZ

ADDRESS || 16A TARNDALE GROVE, ROSEDALE, AUCKLAND

ADDRESS || 223 PARNELL ROAD, PARNELL

PHONE || 021 662 182

PHONE || 09 309 3643

Your Panama Hat will be your greatest accessory this summer even Mick agrees!

VERVE GIFT GUIDE

BEHOLD! PARNELL INC. & ITS ‘CHRISTMAS GIFT HELPERS’ ‘Tis the season of giving and Parnell Inc. have a Santa sack full of ‘Christmas gift helpers’, who are ready to help you with your shopping this festive season.

Here you can find some of Parnell’s best boutiques, designers and more, sharing their own ‘instore shopping picks’ with you. Escape the malls and enjoy your shopping experience this Christmas, in festive Parnell.

Wishing you and yours a very happy season of giving in bountiful Parnell — from everyone in the Parnell Inc. team.

Orsini Orsini is home to fine quality jewellery and here they share with us their favourite Christmas item. A gorgeous gift option for an adult or child, this exclusive brand of jewellery will make that special someone’s Christmas sparkle…

“Orsini is proud to be the exclusive supplier of the internationally renowned Dodo jewellery in New Zealand. Dodo is one of the leading jewellery brands in Europe and part of the Pomellato family: Dodo, a sweet and easy range of jewellery, with emotions concentrated in a gram of gold. The idea was to create charms that could be worn on their own or all together, whichever takes your fancy. Dodo was an instant, huge success, thanks in part to the message of love and friendship conveyed by each charm.

Elephant ‘don’t forget me’, camel ‘I’d walk across burning sand for you’, swan ‘you’ve grown up beautiful’, dragonfly ‘catch me if you can’.... each 18kt gold Dodo charm has a special meaning. People all over the world collect Dodo charms and create unique necklaces and bracelets to tell the stories of their lives. By mixing 18k yellow gold, rose gold and silver, and stacking rows of bracelets and necklaces together, you are able to make your very own fun and personal Dodo collection!”

To learn more go to www.orsini.co.nz or call into the boutique at: 241 Parnell Road, Parnell Each small 18k gold charm starts at $265.

Corso de’ Fiori

Phone: 09) 303 4930 www.nataliechan.co.nz Prices start from $50 per rosette. Rosette purchases over $100 receive a blush pink Natalie Chan gift box.

Linden Leaves in Parnell

Starting off on a festive-foot, Parnell Inc. feels this is the perfect store to enliven your festive spirit and help make your home Christmas-ready…

“Corso de’ Fiori has been delighting the Parnell shopping cognoscenti for nearly 30 years, with a meticulously curated collection of quality, design-led treasures and homewares from around the globe. Step inside our treasure trove of discerning gift ideas for the whole family alongside an unparalleled selection of Christmas decorations for this festive season. With ample parking and a fantastic cafe next door, it’s your perfect Christmas shopping destination.”

The Foundation, 8 George Street, Parnell. www.corso.co.nz

Natalie Chan Boutique

This renowned fashion designer delights with one of their favourite signature items… ‘silver silk dupion rosettes on clips’ “One of the best-selling items at the Natalie Chan Boutique is our signature rosettes on clips, sewn in silk dupion and embellished with pearl centers.

You can clip them into your hair or onto your special outfit as an embellishment.

Parnell Inc.’s Christmas Picks

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 44

Available in a variation of colours and sizes — might we suggest a metallic silver for the festive season.”

Another favourite is this warming, luxurious gift idea from Linden Leaves, where elegance meets Christmas…

“Create a luxury atmosphere in your home with the Home Ambience Set from Linden Leaves. Enjoy the warm and fragrant scent of fig licorice with the aromatic room spray, and the creme wash to gently cleanse the hands or body. Natural New Zealand made goodness this Christmas!”

317 Parnell Road.

Phone: 09 309 0015 www.lindenleaves.com

Windflower

We love Windflower for so many reasons and this is one of them! See their special Christmas offer below…

“Our instore ‘Christmas Pick’ is our Ecoya range, as their heavenly scents can make anyone feel festive and are great as gifts.

Buy any two Ecoya products with us and receive a FREE Mini Reed Diffuser.”

3/99 Parnell Road Phone: 09 377 8186 windflower.co.nz

PARNELL INC.’S ‘MERRY BAND OF EATERIES’…

Feast your eyes on Parnell Inc.’s selection of places to dine this festive season. Like a delightful ‘chocolate box’, Parnell offers a delicious assortment of cuisine, all wrapped up into a beautiful setting, making any dining experience a special one. Here you will find Parnell Inc.’s Merry Band of Eateries, who have each shared a ‘slice of Christmas’ with you. It’s impossible to choose a favourite — so why not try them all!

Lasagne Zucchine E Stracchino Free range eggs lasagna with chargrilled zucchini, basil, Stracchino, pecorino and saffron cheese sauce.

259 Parnell Road For bookings phone: 09 379 5358 http://www.nonsolopizza.co.nz/

that they enjoyed.” Meena Anand, Oh Calcutta. www.ohcalcutta.co.nz For bookings phone: 09 377 90 90

The Parnell

Italia Square

Wishing you and yours a very merry, pallet-satisfying, festive season in beautiful Parnell — from everyone in the Parnell Inc. team.

Non Solo Pizza

Italy has arrived in Parnell…Buon Natale!

“New to Parnell, enjoy an authentic taste of Italy this Christmas at Italia Square. Dine at our restaurant or café, or take home some provolone, prosciutto, gelato and more from the marketplace!”

100 Parnell Road For bookings phone: 09 222 2888

Oh Calcutta In this beautiful Italian tribute, Parnell icon and NSP owner Antonio Crisci, takes everyone back to his childhood with a wonderful reminder of what Christmas is all about. He also shares his spin on a traditional, Italian winter dish, which can be found on his menu this festive season…

“The spirit of Christmas has been embodied in me since I was a young boy growing up in Naples, where the tradition of Christmas is a festive celebration involving all the family, starting Christmas eve and going until the 6 of January, awaiting the arrival of the ‘Befana’ that represents the arrival of the three wise kings and their present for the baby Jesus.

Lasagne is the classic staple of this season and in Europe, it being winter, it’s a white Christmas. So I revised this traditional dish to make something more appealing to our climate in New Zealand and we showcase at NSP this lasagne made with chargrilled zucchini and saffron cheese sauce.”

www.parnell.net.nz

Wonderfully classic, The Parnell delivers traditional favourites to enliven the Christmas spirit…

“One of our most popular dishes at the moment is strawberries dipped in choux pastry, fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with vanilla anglaise. We are now in the swing for Christmas, offering our wonderful set menu with fabulous traditional favourites: ham, turkey, Christmas pudding and brandy custard.”

149 Parnell Road Email: bookings@theparnell149.co.nz www.theparnell149.co.nz Phone: 09 309 3878

TriBeCa Making everyone feel festive and celebratory with these warm sentiments…

“It has been our long term desire to communicate a vision about a way of eating, going way beyond food, starting from the moment a customer comes into our restaurant to the moment he or she leaves. It is difficult to touch people through food, but it is what we aim for, these past 20 years, provoking some kind of emotion so when leaving the restaurant people take with them a part of the event, remembering a particular element

TriBeCa tempts tastebuds with its cuisine and diners bask in their inviting ambiance…

“It doesn’t get much better than this, sitting in TriBeCa’s courtyard enjoying the beautiful Christmas sunshine, glass of champagne in hand; our aromas of fresh confit duck leg slipping out of the kitchen.

Come and try our stunning new menu.”

Please phone for reservations: 09 379 6359 www.tribeca.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 45

Win with Verve this month!

1

ELIZABETH ARDEN

2

ALPHA DOMUS

Alpha Domus has just launched its 2012 AD Cumulus Blanc du Blanc Methode Traditionelle. The last vintage was in 2002!

The AD Cumulus Methode Traditionelle is an elegant dry style, boasts a nice fine bead with subtle aromas of green apple, brioche, hazelnut and a crisp citrus finish. www.alphadomus.co.nz

UP FOR GRABS: 2x Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE® Anti-aging Neck and Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream 50ml RRP$169 each

UP FOR GRABS: 2 bottles of Cumulus Blanc du Blanc Methode Traditionelle

*To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply.

3

MITOQ FESTIVE GIFTBOXES

4

AGATHA PARIS

Stand out this festive season with sparkling jewellery from French fashion jewellery brand, AGATHA Paris!

UP FOR GRABS: MitoQ Festive Giftboxes (1 bottle MitoQ serum and 2 bottles of MitoQ capsules and informative brochure).

www.agatha.co.nz UP FOR GRABS: Selected items from the Agatha Ceramic collection, to the value of $474

www.mitoq.com *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply.

*To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page.

Conditions apply.

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TRU2U

UP FOR GRABS: Two Tru2U Flax Seed Oil & Roasted Hazelnut Dukkah Gift Pack (RRP $47.70 each) to give away. Packs are available freight free online at www. tru2u.co.nz and on 0800 87 82 82 *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page.

Conditions apply.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 46

*To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page.

Conditions apply.

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BOW WOW BOX

The first service of its kind in New Zealand, Bow Wow Boxes contain all-natural treats and the coolest dog toys sourced from around the world —things you can't find at a typical pet store.

UP FOR GRABS: A fantatsic Santa themed box for your pooch from www. bowwowbox.co.nz. Put the wow back in their Bow Wow this Christmas! *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page.

Conditions apply.

Entering Verve’s competitions is simple. Like our page on Facebook, facebook.com/VerveMagazine, then visit our website, www.vervemagazine.co.nz and click on the competitions tab at the top of the page. Good Luck!

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GOODBYE SANDFLY

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WIN WITH NZ MINT AND LINDI KINGI

Minimal, authentic and a little closer to the shadows, Lindi Kingi’s new collection ALCHEMY takes us back to the Lindi Kingi origins of romance and darkness. www.nzmint.com UP FOR GRABS: $334 prize pack includes Alchemy Diamond Cut Ring Silver, Alchemy Diamond Cut Ring Silver with Black Rhodium, Ear Cuff Silver, Ear Cuff Silver with Black Rhodium, Skull Pin, Angel Wing Pin.

Goodbye Sandfly is a natural New Zealand bug repellent for sandflies and mosquitoes. www.goodbyesandfly.co.nz UP FOR GRABS: We have five Goodbye Sandfly packs to give away, each containing 1 x 50ml spray, 1 x 150ml spray and 1 x 40ml dropper of New Zealand’s number one natural bug repellent.

*To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

*To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

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WIN WITH VERVE AND GOOD&CO

SOLO2

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From the Good&Co SS14/15 range called Textual Pleasures - studies of text and fonts in our urban environment. 100% light weight silk chiffon scarves 165 x 130cm, valued $279 www.wearegoodandco.com

BEATS ELECTRONICS INTRODUCES NEXT GENERATION SOLO2: DESIGNED FOR SOUND, TUNED FOR EMOTION

UP FOR GRABS: 1 x Scooter Hire silk scarf

Beats Electronics LLC (Beats), the leading audio brand is once again raising the bar for excellence across both form and function with the introduction of the new Solo2 headphone.

*To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

UP FOR GRABS: One pair of Beats headphones. Value $349. *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

METHVEN UP FOR GRABS: Methven has one Koha shower handset, worth over $300, in your choice of Satin Chrome, White or Graphite, to give away.

The Koha shower handsets fit a standard-sized rail shower. www.methven.com *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

THE BEAUTY LOFT

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Welcome to The Beauty Loft Day Spa, highly recommended for beauty and relaxation. We are not about spa-trends, but rather offer treatments that provide the utmost in relaxation and rejuvenation, with a personal touch.

Talk to us today about designing a tailor-made spa treatment package for yourself. www.thebeautyloft.co.nz UP FOR GRABS: Competition: $100 Gift Voucher *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 47

Australian Fashion Designer

Alex Perry Visits New Zealand Australian fashion designer, judge of Australia’s Next Top Model and eyewear designer for Specsavers NZ, Alex Perry, visited New Zealand for the very first time this month to host the Specsavers style event, showcasing Specsavers latest range of eye wear including the Alex Perry collection.

Alex’s collaboration with Specsavers has seen him launch four spectacle ranges, two prescription sunglasses ranges, and most recently his first men’s ophthalmic range.

This is why Alex makes the perfect judge for the Spectacle Wearer of the Year competition, presented by Specavers. Alex Perry joins a panel of judges, including famed actress and stylish specs-wearer, Sarah Michelle Gellar, comedian and host of 7 DAYS, Jeremy Corbett, and Specsavers style ambassador Pip Edwards.

Spectacle Wearer of the Year is a nationwide search for the country’s most stylish and confident spec-wearer.

The new Alex Perry collection for men features easy to wear fashionable styles that truly epitomise Alex Perry’s unique signature style: beautifully crafted shapes, combined with luxuriously sourced materials and a superior quality finish.

The winner of the prestigious title of Spectacle Wearer of the Year will receive an all-expenses paid trip for two to Hollywood thanks to Specsavers, including $1,000 spending money, plus a new wardrobe of designer glasses from Specsavers.

Alex’s visit comes just after a recent survey* found 85% of Kiwis think prescription eyewear is more of a fashion item now than it was ten years ago, and 62% of those surveyed feel more confident wearing glasses than ever before, proving that Kiwis love for glasses is ever-growing.

Glasses-wearing Kiwis are encouraged to upload a ‘specs-selfie’ to the 2014 Spectacle Wearer of the Year website. Entries are now open at: loveglasses.specsavers.co.nz

Having worn glasses all his life, Alex understands how important it is to love what you are wearing. He believes glasses today

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 48

are seen as an extension of your outfit and are a powerful fashion accessory.

Alex Perry glasses are priced from $299 for two pairs. All frame prices include Pentax standard single vision lenses. *Perceptive Research survey commissioned by Specsavers which captured responses of 1549 New Zealanders.

Gems, Drums and Rock ‘n’ Roll A Newmarket Jewellery store seems like an odd place to meet the drummer of an 80s Kiwi rock band, but that’s precisely where Steve Clarkson (drummer for The Narcs) and I are chatting over coffee about the good ol’ days. Readers might remember The Narcs from their 1984 hit Heart and Soul – “you took me heart and soul, over and over…”. We’re using this location because Steve and his partner, Linda are here at Belloro Fine Jewellery to collect their personalised rings, designed with the help of the store’s owner, Josephine Fryer.

Both Steve and Linda maintain that it was love at first sight and Linda insists he was, “the sexiest silver fox” she’d ever set eyes upon. They have had five rings made at Belloro Fine Jewellery, all with great symbolic value for the couple.

The first resembles one of Steve’s beloved snare drums. Two gold bands (made partly with gold from one of Steve’s teeth) represent the rims of the drum, and birthstones (one for each of Steve’s children and one for Linda and Steve) stand in for the tension rod casing around the circumference of the ring.

For the second ring Steve chose a stunning large oval pink morganite stone for Linda, set on a 18ct rose gold and diamond band (using her own diamonds from an old ring), nestled on four elaborately constructed rose gold feathers. Feathers are close to Linda’s heart and are emblematic of her spiritual beliefs.

The third ring was a matching delicate rose gold and diamond band to go with Linda’s morganite ring.

The fourth is a simple, yet unique gold ribbon for Steve’s daughter made from one of Steve’s old rings.

The fifth ring was made with one of Linda’s large citrine rings. The original citrine ring was very bulky yet Belloro Fine Jewellery transformed it into a stunning ring, showing the beauty of the stone and set with diamonds and yellow gold.

Steve and Linda are both obviously thrilled with Belloro Fine Jewellery’s work and are impressed with how quickly Josephine understood and was able to interpret their desires. Linda and Steve thoroughly recommend Belloro Fine Jewellery for anyone who wants to have a unique, beautiful, handmade piece of jewellery made, either with new stones or using their own stones and gold.

The whole process was a wonderful experience in the comfort of a relaxed boutique jewellery store.

Linda said “the whole process was a wonderful experience in the comfort of a relaxed boutique jewellery store.”

Back to rock ‘n’ roll, The Narcs still practice together regularly and are in fact headlining in Mardsen Cove in January.

Steve keeps himself fit and strong by running and lifting weights so he can handle the long hours of drumming. He’s got some great stories from the good old days. The Narcs were the warm up act when Queen came here in the 80s. He describes chatting to Freddie Mercury whilst Brian May and Roger Taylor were sitting some way off discussing the set up for their show.

Without warning, Taylor violently kicked one of his drums across the stage yelling, “the fookin snare sounds like shite.” It must have been a somewhat regular occurrence as Freddie was apparently entirely unfazed. This is just one of Steve’s amazing stories that will continue on.

Shop 4, 25 Teed Street, Newmarket jewellery@belloro.co.nz www.belloro.co.nz Phone : 09 522 8620 for your own personal custom made jewellery appointment with Josephine Fryer — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 49

SIGNATURE STYLE

STYLISH FOREVER

Your questions answered by

Meghan Maher Repertoire’s Style Director

I can no longer buy surf labels for the weekend - do you have a casual label?

After talking with a colleague, whose style she admired (one of our clients), Jennifer picked up the phone and decided that enough was enough, it was time to focus on herself. So began her time with Signature Style and she elected to do our Designer Suit Makeover Programme. The Designer Suit is our most comprehensive, top to toe makeover which covers everything from the colours that ‘lift’ you, the styles of garments that flatter your shape, a new hairstyle, learning the best makeup techniques for your age and lifestyle, sorting through your existing wardrobe and a shopping trip to really get the best items for you. There are a few other little treats along the way too and these sessions are all one-on-one.

Jennifer is in the final stages of her programme (we’re shopping this week), but already she tells me how confident she is feeling, and that people she works with are noticing her again. The spring in her step has returned, and she just cannot share how fabulous she is feeling without a tear in her eye. Watching this woman become again the person she thought she had lost is one of the greatest privileges of my job as her stylist. I look forward to not just her final transformation – new clothes are a fabulous thing – but to an on-going relationship with a confident woman who got just what she needed when she felt all was lost.

If you feel you’ve lost yourself in a busy life that keeps on whizzing by, why not take the time to rediscover yourself again?

We specialise in restoring not just what you see on the outside, but your inner ‘wow’ too. Find out more on signaturestyle.co.nz or give us a call on 09 529 5115.

Jackie O’Fee is owner of leading personal style consultancy Signature Style. If you’d like a gentle push to greater bravery in your wardrobe, get in touch — we’d love to help! Further information is available at signaturetyle.co.nz, pop into our 35 Broadway Studio or give us a call on 09 529 5115.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 50

Repertoire

LOUNGE Summer 14-15 collections in store now

Repertoire LOUNGE Dana Eco Dress

For the final Verve column for 2014 I wanted to share (with permission) the story of one of our clients. Jennifer is in her 50s, and over the past few years had watched her body shape change in ways she didn’t like, and while she used to love fashion and clothes, she didn’t like anything she tried now. Her hair used to be her crowning glory, but now after rushed trips to the hairdresser when she could fit it into a crazy work schedule it was left looking flat with a colour far away from what she liked it to be. All in all, she had got to the point where looking in the mirror gave her absolutely no pleasure at all.

In our own search for these pieces we noticed that due to fashion trends, there was a distinct shortage of truly elegantly relaxed casual wear especially for the weekends, thus the idea of Repertoire LOUNGE came into being.

Repertoire LOUNGE is a beautiful collection of interchangeable pieces that can be mixed with one another allowing you to create dozens of casual chic outfits that are perfect for the weekend and for “me time”. The colours are soft and neutral.

The fits are body conscious and easy.

Quality is paramount; these are the pieces you will fall in love with and will want to keep forever.

Repertoire LOUNGE is all about “feel good” clothing, designed to make you feel as beautiful on the outside as you are on the inside. We invite you to discover this collection for yourself.

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T A H T R A E W M I W S G N I S E CHOO R U G I F R U O Y S R E T T A L F

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It’s that time of year again. The lawns are mowed, the barbeques are rolled out, and Auckland’s incessant rain (hopefully) gives way to hot sunny days and clear blue skies. For many of us, summer also brings with it a fair share of anxiety – no longer may we hide away in long pants or comfy knitwear – instead, it’s time to bare some skin as we take to the beach or the pool.

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Summer is often dubbed ‘bikini season,’ a phrase designed to strike terror into the hearts of many women who don’t quite feel beachready after hibernating away the long winter. Thankfully, there are many different types of swimwear designed to best flatter and fit varying individual figures, depending on what assets you want to emphasise, and what assets you’d rather downplay.

For those wishing to hide winter-weight gathered around the tummy and hips, a slimline one-piece is an easy way to a leaner look. Ruched or textured fabric over the tummy region can help give the appearance of a flat stomach, while many pieces now come with in-built control panels. Choose a block-colour rather than patterns to truly achieve the slimline effect. Bikinis are not completely off the cards – a high-rise bikini bottom with a folded or shirred waistband may work in your favour. Use bright accents on top with a darker colour below to draw the eye upwards and lengthen your figure.

If you have a large bust, there is swimwear especially designed with you in mind (available up to a JJ cup at Avokado). There is a choice of beautiful brights or something more subdued, in bikini’s, tankini’s and one-piece suits to suit everyone’s tastes. The main thing to keep in mind for those with a larger bust is to have a proper fitting in a specialist bra/swimwear shop as this will ensure that you have the right size and style to make you look and feel fabulous!

02

01 — Rock the Beach bikini by Freya 02 — Cherish 50s Tankini by Freya 03 — Spirit coral padded bikini by Freya 04 — Cape Verde Tankini by Fantasie

For the athletic types with stronger legs, try a mid-rise bikini bottom that still bares your belly button. Again, use bright colours or patterns to draw attention to your waist. Avoid boy-shorts or bottoms with embellishments that emphasise the thighs.

Women in need of swimwear that adds shape and curves should look towards three-dimensional aspects – ruffles, embellishments and bold patterns can all work to add shape to a straight figure.

Bring attention to the waistline with low or mid-rise bottoms to add an hourglass effect, while avoiding any designs that incorporate solid colours or vertical lines.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 51

www.basler-fashion.com.au 09 524 9722 / REMUERA MALL 319 REMUERA RD AUCKLAND 1050

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 52

BASLER AND VIVO COLLABORATE BASLER, a unique Remuera fashion store, and VIVO Hair & Beauty recently collaborated with a makeover competition: the prize being a selection of fashion from BASLER and a hair and beauty makeover from VIVO. The lucky winner WAS ERIN VERCOE. Verve’s roving reporter caught up with Erin the other day, and asked her about the experience.

Verve: Erin, you won the competition; what did you have to do win?

Erin: To enter I completed an entry form at VIVO. I had pretty much forgotten about it when I got a call from BASLER, so it came as a lovely surprise!

V: How did you feel during the whole process of having this make over with VIVO Hair & Beauty and trying on BASLER’s beautiful clothes?

E: The whole process was so much fun. I chose the clothes at BASLER first. The ladies there were so kind, they had picked out some combinations of clothes that they thought I might like, and I spent a fun hour or so trying on pretty much everything in the store, with the help of Carylln, Marion and Viktoriya. It was so hard to choose one outfit; every garment is beautifully tailored and finished and the fabrics are lovely.

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BEFORE

The VIVO part of the prize was amazing too, after a busy week at work I really appreciated the lovely relaxing Medik8 facial, then to come back in the next day and have hair, makeup and a manicure done was such a treat! Stevie and Leanne looked after me very well and I was really pleased with the results.

V: Are you a busy mum? Maybe you work fulltime?

E: Yes, part of the reason that I was so thrilled to win the prize was that my family and I have recently returned from Australia, where we spent the 18 months that I was on an (extended) parental leave, and I have recently returned to work. While we were in Australia we lived in a small, remote town about 1500km north of Perth, which had its challenges, mainly living in the heat (up to about 45 degrees in summer) with two small children, but, also that I was finishing my Masters Degree in law through the University of Auckland. It’s great to be home, though life has been extremely busy, as we are renovating our house and I’ve been busy back at work, so the prize could not have come at a better time!

01 — VIVO stylist Leanne Farrell and Erin Vercoe 02 — Erin Vercoe

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AFTER

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 53

PARI SI A N ST REET STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY: FELIK WONG

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Sal

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BALM ST NEWMARKET (09) 524 5787 In luscious summer brights back to black, the Check Rose Top is floral on the yoke, descending to a pretty large plaid in the front and a stripe on the back. In luxurious fine silk, it has a dropped shoulder and a cap sleeve and a fine black trim at the neckline – the goes-with-everything interest top.

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 60

WITH DEBBIE LOVELOCK

VERVE MUSIC

THE ART OF MCCARTNEY

ALI CAMPBELL — SILHOUETTE

UB40 was my first live gig many years ago in the UK, and the unmistakable, truly legendary voice of Ali Campbell hasn’t changed a bit. Some great covers on here — as well as original tracks — to get you into the feel good groove within minutes. A very infectious, laid back and easy album… didn’t want it to end. Good to have some of the UB40 members back jamming together.

Fave Track: Any Time At All

Contributors to the album read like a who’s who of rock and pop royalty. Some interesting takes on some of the world’s most famous tunes and definitely a track on here for everyone. I actually found this album a refreshing listen after hearing many of these songs over and over again across the years. Great Christmas present for the older generation: should get them a ‘twisting’ and a shouting’ I’m thinking.

Fave Track: Hey Jude

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Thanks for listening and see you in 2015

Ali Campbell, Astro & Mickey Virtue, Jamaican star Chronixx and American hip-hop legends Ice Cube and Cypress Hill will headline New Zealand’s premiere summer festival Raggamuffin VIII in Auckland on Saturday 13 December.

Featuring two stages, the festival line-up also includes Pacific reggae artist Fiji, Jamaican leading lady Etana alongside

The multi-talented Mary J Blige goes a little ‘Winehouse’ on this album under the influence of some famous British soul lovers like Sam Smith, for instance. I loved this sound! Some trademark, almost ‘gospel’ type tracks, and a couple of ballads thrown into the mix. Not really my thing, but hey — listenable all the same.

Fav Track: Therapy

UP FOR GRABS

RAGGAMUFFIN VIII

British reggae royalty UB40 Saturday 13 December, 2014: outdoors @ The Trusts Arena, Auckland

MARY J BLIGE — THE LONDON SESSIONS

top-shelf Kiwi acts including Katchafire, Aaradhna with full band, Sammy Johnson featuring Brownhill, P-Money, House of Shem, Sons of Zion, DJ Sirvere, Che Fu & The Kratez, Tomorrow People and Jafa Mafia Crew with special guests.

Raggamuffin VIII will also once again be supporting Y for Youth which provides vital assistance to a range of New Zealand youth organisations, with a portion of your ticket sales donated to the charity.

Raggamuffin VIII is an R18 event. www.raggamuffin.co.nz

The Audio Consultant 2 3 W I L L I A M S O N AV E N U E , P O N S O N B Y, A U C K L A N D 09-376-6176 W W W. A U D I O C O N S U LTA N T. C O . N Z

1 X COPY OF ALI CAMPBELL — SILHOUETTE 1 X COPY OF THE ART OF MCCARTNEY * TO ENTER VISIT WWW.VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

UP FOR GRABS 2 X TICKETS TO RAGGAMUFFIN

* TO ENTER VISIT WWW.VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

YOU’LL BE SMITTEN! Have you ever spent a day out shopping only to come home with something you later regretted buying? You are not alone!

Christine Lemalu from Smitten is a personal image consultant who offers personal shopping as one of her many services.

Christine says that most people will spend the whole day looking for ‘something new’ to refresh their wardrobe, only to return home with another black top or their fourth pair of jeans!

After taking a client on a recent personal shopping trip to Newmarket, Christine received a note… “Thanks for all of your help Christine. I had the time of my life! I will go to bed exhausted tonight but with a smile on my face”. It’s comments like these that Christine says make her job so worthwhile.

Each shopping trip is completely personalised to suit your individual needs. Your colouring, body shape and budget are all taken into account before Christine puts together an afternoon you won’t forget. After a complimentary coffee you are whisked off to try on over 70 potential new purchases. Expect to see everything from the shopping list, as well as a few things that will have you wondering why you never tried those colours or styles before.

Are you someone who often wears black, doesn’t know what colours suit best, or is just plain frustrated with clothes that don’t flatter your body shape?

Contact

Colour • Style & Line • Wardrobe & Accessories Personal Shopping • Wardrobe Sort • Make-Up Gift Certificates

It’s an uplifting and confidence-boosting experience that will help you reach your true shopping potential.

Contact Smitten today to guide your wardrobe in the right direction. See ad on right for contact details.

A N N I FA S H I O N S TA K E C A R E O F YO U R C O R P O R AT E WA R D R O B E N E E D S • TA I LO R YO U R O N E WA R D R O B E • M A K E YO U R O W N FA S H I O N S TAT E M E N T

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H AV E A N E XQ U I S I T E LY D E S I G N E D, C U S TO M TA I LO R E D S U I T O R S H I R T M A D E J U S T F O R YO U , I N T H E F I N E S T FA B R I C S T H E W O R L D H A S TO O F F E R - B Y O N E O F T H E B E S T E S TA B L I S H E D H O N G KO N G C U S TO M TA I LO R S , AT A P R I C E T H AT I S 1 0 0 % A F F O R DA B L E .

M A L E O R F E M A L E , O L D E R O R YO U N G E R , P L A N N I N G F O R A S P E C I A L OCCASION To b o o k y o u r a p p o i n t m e n t f o r o u r n e x t t r i p b y e m a i l u s o r v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e

EMAIL: CONTACT@ANNIFASHIONS.COM PHONE: +852-5119-2484 +852-3996-7141 ANNI FASHIONS — AN ELEGANT SOLUTION TO THE CUSTOM TAILORED SUIT — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 62

today!

The Hip Hassan Hajjaj Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I was born in Morocco and I lived there until I was 13, at which time I moved with my family to the United Kingdom,” Hassan Hajjaj tells Nafas Art Magazine. “It was a great time to be in London as a young person, because there was so much going on visually. I got involved in so many scenes and absorbed everything I could, from fashion to underground club music.” And boy, does it show…

Hajjaj now lives between Marrakesh and London. In 2009, he was shortlisted for the prestigious Victoria & Albert Museum’s Jameel Prize for Islamic Art. His work has been shown across the globe. Though Hajjaj is skilled in many artistic disciplines, portrait photography is his forte, often an ironic commentary on the misconceptions and the effects of global capitalism.

He has launched his own fashion label, designed the Andy Wahloo bar in Paris and crafted furniture from recycled North African artefacts. It almost does the visionary 53-year-old a disservice to label him an artist. Or even to label him at all.

The New York Times describes Hajjaj as a, “master of several design genres, including furniture, fashion, interiors and record-album covers.” Hassan Hajjaj is one cool dude. “Over the past decade,” continues Roberta Smith in her New York Times review of his Kesh Angels exhibition, “he has synthesized them, and more, into dazzling photo-portraits that are dynamic transcultural documents.”

collection of photographs sees girls of Marrakesh straddling motorcycles whilst decked out in traditional garb, adorned with the logos of designers and contemporary brands. Each image is then bordered, Pop Art-like, by tins and packets of food. “I build frames using objects I find in markets,” Hajjaj tells the Independent, “cans of Fanta, tins or boxes of chicken stock. I wanted to use the repetition of the labels in a slightly humorous context, relating to something happening in the photographs, but I also wanted to create repetitive patterns to evoke the mosaics of Morocco in a modern context.”

Recent years have seen collaborations with fashion designers such as Duro Olowu and Amine Bendriouich. Last February brought the publication of his book By Hassan Hajjaj: Photography, Fashion, Film, Design, in which, according to Al. Arte Magazine, he “pokes fun at the stereotypical representations of ‘the west and the east’” and “draws attention to the increasing globalisation in a unique way,” proving that “the African, Arabic and European cultures can go hand in hand and even complement each other.” And his Rock Star series continues still — an ongoing exhibition now at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The project, which has now progressed from photos to film, records the likes of musicians, snake charmers and male belly dancers, all of whom are dressed in his wares. “I wanted to show my respect to individuals who inspire me and my personal rock stars and heroes,” Hajjaj tells Nafas. “These are everyday people who are not famous, but are tremendously important individuals to me. I will continue to work on the series in volumes as I have many more friends who are rock stars who I would like to introduce to the public. I want to document who they are and where they are at a particular moment in their lives.”

Kesh Angels was a project two decades in the making, designed to subvert preconceived notions of Arab women. The arresting — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 63

OTTOLOOM New Bondi Double Denim $78.00

Celine Resort 2015 The collection most women around the globe wait for.

Celine has just dropped resort 2015. Designer, Phoebe Philo showcases simple cover ups in the form of long slouchy knits that (in true Philo style) work with a sandal, sneaker or heel.

OTTOLOOM Biarritz Mandarin $62.00

SIMPLE COVER UPS As the balmy summer days approach and our time starts being spent by the poolside and sea, we seek attire less organised and restrictive and crave something that is easy and cool.

WITCHERY HAT $64.90 SHEN KIMONO DRESS $220.00 www.shen.co.nz

ZIMMERMAN HYDRA Floral Vine Slouch Dress $450.00

MELISSA ODABASH EMBROIDERED TOP $299 www.net-a-porter.com”

Witchery Border Poncho $149.90

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 64

LEM LEM $296 www.net-a-porter.com Lemlem uses traditional artisans to produce hand-woven shawls in white cotton with ethnicinfluenced embroidery. This hand-woven piece has split sides for ease of movement.

BLONDE LOCKS

Moroccanoil Treatment ($67) is a conditioning, styling and finishing tool, and will instantly absorb into the hair to help create luminous shine and luxurious, silky perfection, transforming hair with dramatic results.

SUMMER LOCKS A summer full of sun, sand, and chlorine can make sustaining luscious hair difficult. Verve’s beauty team has hand selected, what we think are the best products in the market today.

Find the product that has your summer hair maintenance covered.

For Dry & Tea it’s all about varying levels of curl this summer!

The Dry & Tea signature blow wave menu gives you multiple options from the classic beach hair through to the ultimate Rio Carnival, this style is full of body and bounce! Whether on a bob or very long hair, Dry & Tea are embracing curls.

Designed specifically for the needs of blonde hair comes the NEW label.m Brightening Blonde. This range covers every aspect of blonde care, promoting thicker, smoother, more healthy-looking hair.

Label.m Brightening Blonde Shampoo $31.00 Label.m Brightening Blonde Conditioner $32.00 Label.m’s Brightening Blonde Balm $39.00

Sophia Loren, an icon known for her many beauty traits. Her full, elegantly tousled locks are to be remembered and admired.

57 TYLER ST BRITOMART, AUCKLAND 09 309 2128

Label.m products are available instore at TONI&GUY and Synergy Salons nationwide.

LIFT YOUR CURLS FOR EVERYONE

Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask ($65) restores hair that has been damaged by chemical treatments, heat styling or sun.

Guinot Huile Mirific Nourishing Dry Oil for Body & Hair Silky soft hair and perfectly hydrated skin is a must for every woman. Guinot introduces Huile Mirific, a 2-in-1 nourishing oil used for both the body and hair. Witness instantly softened skin and restored hair. The light formula absorbs immediately into the hair follicles leaving no signs of oily residue, perfect for those in need of a quick pick-me-up. $75.00

The new Curl Fever and Fix Fabulous styling products by Kerastase are our favourite for summer! Curl fever (used on wet hair) embraces a soft, long lasting curl and the Fix Fabulous (used on dry hair) is a non-aerosol finishing spray with the ultimate in shine and hold.

Kérastase Fix Fabulous RRP$39.00 Kérastase Curl Fever RRP$39.00 WWW.KERASTASE.CO.NZ — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 65

GET THE WHITECLIFFE EDGE! In November each year, Whitecliffe holds the much-anticipated Fashion Show and Exhibitions series, where students present the best of their year’s work. As 2014 has been a particularly impressive year for Whitecliffe: winning the Auckland Eden Arts Art Schools top award, Best Design Awards and Australasian Graduate of the Year Awards in Fashion Design and in Visual Communication, the end-of-year events were eagerly anticipated by industry and art professionals.

01 — Dress by Jacqueline Lim 02 — Painting by Jonathan Dunbar

01

Noel Ivanoff HOD Fine Arts said that, “the 2014 graduating exhibitions were impressive for their range and overall standard, with the work reflecting each student’s learning over the Batcheor of Fine Art Degree. Students’ confidence and willingness to use the final exhibition as a chance to extend themselves, created a tangible sense of ambition and energy.”

Fashion Design HOD, Belinda Watt says, “the Fashion Show is an exciting platform, where students can showcase their work to the highest professional level. The young designers take ownership of their presentation, emphasising the individuality of their design aesthetics through specific styling and music choices. At Whitecliffe we set an open brief so students are free to explore and research their own concept, develop a personal design style and produce a cohesive body of work that is truly individual.”

02

Winners of the annual Auckland Eden Arts Art Schools top award 3 out of 4 times, Australasian Graduate of the Year in Fashion Design and Visual Communication, and Best Design awards.

Get the Whitecliffe Edge!

Whitecliffe graduates are articulate and innovative creative thinkers with broad skills and a high level of industry-standard technical proficiency. They create compelling and powerful visual expressions of their ideas, are leaders in the Creative Industries and shape contemporary culture.

/ Fine Arts / Photography / Fashion Design / Graphic Design / Arts Therapy / Arts Management INFORMATION MORNING Thursday 11 Dec 10am-12 noon 24 Balfour Road, Parnell

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 66

www.whitecliffe.ac.nz

Michaela Challis

RFID Protection wallets Ilex Handbags BackRoad ~ Travel Luggage Travel Kits Buxton Fashion Bags and more....

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BARON & BUXTON

Both household names in leather goods.

128 Apirana Ave, Glen Innes, Opposite NOSH, Plentiful parking right outside the door.

Telephone: 528 7052 or 528 8833 www.leathergoods.co.nz Open 7 Days untill X-mass

CORSO DE’ FIORI

VISIT || WWW.CORSO.CO.NZ

THE FOUNDATION, 8 GEORGE ST, NEWMARKET 09 307 9166

Curate your world with Corso de’ Fiori — visit us in-store or online for an evolving selection of design-led giftware, homeware and furniture from New Zealand and around the world.

CORSO DE’ FIORI CERAMICS — ‘CASOLARE’ DESIGN, MADE IN ITALY. — BOWL SMALL, 25CM DIA $134.90 — SALAD BOWL LARGE, 30CM DIA $164.90 — OVAL PLATTER, 43CM WIDE $154.90

CORSO DE’ FIORI CERAMICS — ‘GALLO BLU’ DESIGN, MADE IN ITALY. — BOWL SMALL, 25CM DIA $134.90 — SALAD BOWL LARGE, 30CM DIA $164.90 — ROUND PLATTER, 38CM DIA $149.90

— ARTCOPICHIC FRENCH FURNITURE WITH AN INDUSTRIAL EDGE. — OAK COFFEE TABLE, 130 X 70 X 38CM $2,990

— MODERN MOOSE OWL PENDULUM CLOCK, WITH 3D POP OUT EFFECT $79.90 EACH

09 361 3313 || WWW.DESIGNDENMARK.CO.NZ

DESIGN DENMARK

GEORG JENSEN DAMASK - RED ABILD TEA TOWEL (50% COTTON 50% LINEN) $34.90

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 68

VIPP - ESPRESSO CUP 2 PEICE SET (ALSO AVAILABLE IN GREY) $68.50

GLERUPS - INDOOR SHOES (90% NEW ZEALAND WOOL AVAILABLE IN 6 COLOURS AND 3 STYLES) $189.00

NUANCE - WINE FINER $62.23

NORMANN COPENHAGEN - COGNAC GLASS 2 PEICE SET $147.00

VERVE DECEMBER 2014//

69

01 — Lujo’s New Kwila Sun Lounger 02 — Owner, Warren Twisleton 03 — Giant Outdoor Cloud Cushions 04 — Outdoor Bean Bag Lounger

01

Lujo – Swapping the Big Smoke for the Beach As a keen traveller with an eye for design, a move from a 9-5 office job to a career with more freedom and creativity seemed a natural segue for Mt Maunganui based Warren Twisleton, founder and owner of Lujo.

02

03

“After working in big cities like London and Sydney, I realised that the corporate grind and hours spent on public transport wasn’t how I wanted to spend the rest of my life. I wanted to build a business that allowed me to live a lifestyle with the freedom to be creative and work when and where I wanted, so set my mind to finding a way to achieve that,” says Warren.

“The rise of e-commerce created the opportunity to set up a business in a small coastal town, living a more balanced lifestyle, without sacrificing the opportunities that only big cities used to hold for businesses. You don’t need to live in a big city to excel in business nowadays; the internet has made global markets a lot more accessible.”

Tim Ferriss’ book The-Four-Hour-Work Week provided extra inspiration for Warren, who recognised the fallacy of “delayed gratification”— working hard your entire life at a job you aren’t very passionate about so you can retire at a ripe old age, too old and exhausted to do the things you have really wanted to be doing your whole life. This didn’t make any sense to him.

04

“By no means am I working four hours a week at the moment — but I love my work, I am able to choose my work hours and locations, and more frequently I’m

able to take extended ‘mini-retirements’ travelling and working from the road now that the business is well established.

“These trips always get the creative juices flowing, and I come back invigorated and inspired with new ideas for the business.”

Last year Warren packed his laptop in his backpack and headed to Indonesia for six weeks — climbing volcanoes in Lombok, island hopping in the Gilis, drift diving in the Komodo National Park — all whilst running Lujo from the road. It had its small challenges, like time differences and slow internet, but Warren made sure he had the right systems in place and people on the ground in New Zealand to handle any bumps along the way. It ran so smoothly that he’s planning a three month trip next year.

Whilst not a qualified furniture designer, Warren relies on a good business sense, knowing what the market likes and working with the right combination of people to create the right products to meet current market demands. He works with artisan producers and product developers in the Bay of Plenty and Taranaki to produce well-designed, high quality furniture purpose-built for relaxation.

The product range includes a stylish collection of indoor and outdoor beanbags, giant indoor/outdoor cushions, a free-standing hammock complete with attachable accessories, such as a Bluetooth speaker and a unique rocking sun lounger perfect for summer relaxation.

The beautifully designed products are gracing homes and resorts both in New Zealand and around the globe including: The Maldives, Greece, South Africa, Norway, USA, UAE and Australia.

Lujo products are only available for purchase online at www.lujo.co.nz with free delivery New Zealand-wide; another great reason to get online and make Lujo part of your summer this year.

WE DESIGN YOUR DESIRES LIVE WITH NATURE

Auckland Showroom 09 378 6222 275 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland www.markmaple.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 70

Nordic Christmas Shopping Words: Melanie Dower

Finland is the home of Santa Claus and where he begins his journey delivering presents around the globe. Known as Joulupukki, the Finnish Santa lives in Lapland and is based on the pagan tradition of a Yule time goat. Finnish families traditionally receive a visit from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, when he knocks on the front door looking for wellbehaved children.

Finland is also home to great design and gift ideas and living on the other side of the world doesn’t mean you have to miss out on Santa’s most stylish treats this Christmas. Help lighten his load by choosing the best of Nordic design locally and online.

Finnish design house Iittala has been making iconic glass objects since 1881. Their belief in timeless design that will never be thrown away is evident in the recent release of their Leimu lamps for the home. These warm lamps are perfect for creating atmosphere when entertaining or after a long day at the beach.

Each year Iittala release a new design of their iconic glass bird, unique to its year and individually handmade. The birds have become a favourite gift for babies as each bird connects the child to the year it was born. They are also the perfect gift for collectors and bird-lovers alike. Iittala’s bird for 2015 is the Lakla, or bean goose, set in deep green and made from transparent and opal glass.

Marimekko’s fabrics bring a bright pop of colour to any home and are perfect for a summer Christmas. Breathe new life into your living areas with cushion covers, homewares, bags and accessories and start the day with your favourite beverage served in a stylish mug and teapot from Marimekko’s kitchen collection.

Whether you spend summer at home or the bach, refresh your bedroom with linen from Finnish design house Finlayson.

Established in 1820 Finlayson has been enhancing Finnish homes since engineer James Finlayson began manufacturing quality textiles in the town of Tampere. Their range of linen will add a touch of style to your bathroom, bedroom or kitchen and is suitable for allergy sufferers and those with the most sensitive skin.

Stockists: Iitalla – Galtons of Parnell, www.galtons.co.nz; Trumps of Remuera – www.trumps.co.nz Marimekko – Bolt of Cloth, Newmarket www.boltofcloth.com Finlayson – www.finlayson.fi Melanie Dower is the author of Hey Helsinki, a blog about Finnish culture, food and art. www.heyhelsinki.wordpress.com

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 71

20-60% off all floorstock includes giftware and accessories

auckland 09 368 7694 51-53 the strand, parnell hamilton 07 854 9495 530 river road facebook.com/formafurniturenz www.forma.co.nz

from our family to yours the warmest compliments of the season

BOXING DAY SALE up to

now on

60% off luxury beds

DO NOT BUY A NEW

We’re a family business with years of bedding experience Let us help you choose the right bed for you

BED WITHOUT SEEING US FIRST

It’s our biggest sale of the year — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 72

NEWMARKET Crowhurst St Corner Queen

Pocket Spring Mattress

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*Limited Stock - offer valid while stock lasts

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 73

MEZ MY ECLECTIC ZONE

Our aim is to create substance and meaning through design.

Individual taste and individual style is what allows us as humans to express ourselves. At MEZ, we aim to bring such differences in taste and design under one roof with artefacts sourced from our extensive journeys around the world. We strongly believe in sourcing our products in a socially conscience and ecofriendly manner, with the use of fair trade labour in each and every step of the supply chain.

We work with trusted partners in a number of nations to source truly responsible and sustainable products that are produced with respect for both people and the planet.

WWW.SHOPMEZ.COM SHOP # CB101 VICTORIA PARK MARKET, AUCKLAND

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 74

CUTHBERT INTERIORS

35 YEARS IN BUSINESS

This year Cuthbert Interiors celebrates their 35th birthday.

Established in 1979 by Janet Cuthbert, the business gained a reputation for producing unique design concepts and embracing colour. Always preferring to select those fabrics that are beautifully drawn and varying in textures, Cuthbert Interiors has continued to grow since Anna Cuthbert took up the reins in 2004.

After time studying at KLC School of Design in Chelsea Harbour, London, and working abroad in the interiors field, Anna returned to New Zealand to inject new enthusiasm into the well-established and highly regarded Remuera business.

Now ten years on, with interior projects at each end of the globe under her belt, she designs, sources and manages interior projects from beginning to end.

Interiors_AnnaCard_45mm.pdf

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anna cuthbert | director

klc school of design london (hons), b.a cant nz

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021 379 208 anna@interiors.co.nz po box 37502, parnell, auckland www.interiors.co.nz

Last week, Verve caught up with Anna.

Verve: Firstly Anna, congratulations on your business’s achievements. Where do you find so much inspiration?

Anna: I take my inspiration from everything around me in life. The contrasting colours of a flower, the angles and shapes in architecture, the elements within a client’s home that they wish to keep, and the amazingly beautiful fabrics that we have access to here in New Zealand. Despite the geographical distance from the major design centres of the world, we are so lucky that passionate agents represent these collections in New Zealand and frequently bring internationally lauded designers to meet us. I try to avoid seasonal trends and provide longevity, as interiors are an investment, and the furniture — modern heirlooms.

home that works for them. The most difficult challenge people have is the ability to balance and combine various looks, styles, patterns and colours. I help them do this so that the rooms are seamlessly inviting and welcome you as you enter.

V: What part of your work do you most enjoy?

A: The people and the fabrics: I feel so lucky that I get to spend time with the amazing people I work with, including people from within the industry. The fabrics, wallpapers, finishes, etc. are continually evolving and with ever advancing technology, continue to become even more varied and exciting. There is never a dull moment: every day I discover new designs, combinations and textures.

V: How would you sum up your design ethos?

V: Can you tell us about a most memorable project?

A: Practical and aesthetically beautiful. A scheme has to suit the individual client’s way of life, and every client is different. Design is not paint by numbers! Every job and scheme is as different as the space, the light and personal taste. I truly believe that I am not here to dictate and tell people how they should live. Rather by challenging them to various options, ideas and colours, clients can confidently decide on a

A: A job I did in Oriental Bay, Wellington: Not only was there vast scope, but the client embraced dramatic use of colour and movement. Whilst doing the job, I was lucky enough to witness the snow fall at sea level, while I was working with a photographer on a photo shoot of the interior. The results were amazing, in a stunning location, and a memory that will stay with me always!

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 75

Focal Grande Utopia EM Chosen by Metro Magazine as one of their Objects Of Desire!

W W W.T H E A U D I O C O N S U LTA N T. C O . N Z

The Audio Consultant SOUND • VISION • CONTROL

2 3 W I L L I A M S O N AV E N U E , P O N S O N B Y, A U C K L A N D 09-376-6176

5 6 C O M M E R C E S T R E E T, F R A N K T O N , H A M I LT O N 07-847-8436

FOCAL • DEVIALET • MUSICAL FIDELITY • TCHERNOV • CYRUS • ROTEL • PROJECT • OPPO • CONTROL4

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 76

Free Your Music

“Here at The Audio Consultant we love music” says manager John Moher, ”in fact it’s why we are here!

What’s more, we only promote the best products, because we care about music and we are passionate about our customers’ enjoying it as much as we do!

That’s why we are really excited to present the new Bluesound Players in our product line-up – it’s really an evolutionary step in music streaming that will set your music free.”

“Imagine a group of passionate music lovers who also happen to have the technical skills to design audio equipment, who have been involved in the audio industry for decades, and who came together with a vision for an innovative, and more importantly high quality, way to share and listen to music throughout your home – freeing your music, allowing your favourite music to be anywhere in your home, in high resolution. This is Bluesound.”

The Bluesound Vault will automatically rip your CD collection, store all your music on its internal hard drive, access music stored elsewhere such as a computer or networked drive, while also being able to stream internet radio and services like Spotify. Bluesound can output your music to any audio system, all remotely controlled from your iOS or Android device, PC or Mac. Bluesound can also stream your music over a network to other Bluesound players elsewhere in your home. Bluesound can do all of this in high resolution, much higher quality than other music streaming systems.

“It’s really as good as it sounds” continues John, “the components of the Bluesound eco-system come together beautifully – there is sublime synergy between all of them, you can use your Wifi to stream music across your home, or even out to the deck or patio for example via Bluesound’s Pulse, a portable player.” Bluesound’s eco-system includes players that let you stream to other rooms and audio systems you may already have. The Power Node includes an amplifier that can directly power quality high fidelity speakers such as the Bluesound Duo which has been tuned specifically for Bluesound’s Power Node.

“Many people have been put off by existing music streaming solutions, or have been happy to just use iTunes” John remarks, “but now there really is a simple, stable, high quality solution that’s, well, just really cool. And there is more coming!” If you held back on music streaming because it seemed complicated, or the systems weren’t up to scratch, or you just wanted the ability to do high-resolution files, wait no longer – Bluesound is here, and it’s at The Audio Consultant in Ponsonby.

Hi-Fi For The Wi-Fi Generation Hi-Fi For The Wi-Fi Generation

The Audio Consultant

23 Williamson Avenue, Ponsonby, Auckland 1021, Phone 09-376-6176 www.theaudioconsultant.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 77

HOME STAGING

AVAILABLE OLD FAVOURITES

Ellena 3m Dining Table now $2399 Cafe Style Dining Chairs now $159 ea

Route 66 Metal Chair $195

NEW IN

Cow Hide Bookcase $995

Solid Teak Vintage Fridge $1395

Newmarket Store 372-376 Broadway Newmarket Ph 09 522 0030

North Shore Unit 20, 18 Link Drive Wairau Park Ph 09 443 7788

Retro Teak Chest of Drawers $1895

North Shore 31 Constellation Drive Mairangi Bay Ph 09 479 9577

www.thebeachfurniture.co.nz

ANTIQUE | VINTAGE | PATCHWORK | CONTEMPORARY | CUSTOM

APR

Abianee Persian Rugs 44 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland (Upstairs) (09) 522 5040 — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 78

KITCHENS BY DESIGN

TIPS FROM KITCHEN DESIGNER SHANE GEORGE

WORKSPACES

AERON CHAIR: Designer Bill Stumpf Imaginative design, fast-forward ergonomics and a look so distinctive that it’s probably the only office chair that people can identify by name.

VERVE: How would I get started with a new kitchen?

Choose appliances first or design?

S: Talk to your kitchen designer first, tell them your requirements/wish list. Once we have developed an overall concept, we can guide you on what style and type of appliances will work with your space and design, and you’ll be more focussed when you go off to do your appliance shopping.

V: How do I decide what to spend on a new kitchen?

S: Most people have to work to a budget, so that of course comes in to it, but it is not the only factor. Are you going to live in the house long term, or sell in the near future? A kitchen refit should normally be in keeping with the value and standard of the home. There are occasional exceptions, you may be an avid cook who lives in the kitchen and you want it to reflect that love of cooking and entertaining! Also, it is not always the amount you pay but what you get for that investment, for instance, does the design work? Does it suit your home and lifestyle? Do it right and you will have a space that is efficient and a real pleasure for you and your family to be in for years to come.

V: What can help me pick the right materials for my kitchen?

S: Probably the biggest drivers are lifestyle, taste and budget.

Just a note on that, sometimes we think, I can’t have something because it’s not practical for my family. For instance I better not have marble bench tops because of the extra care needed, however, some of the engineered bench top materials available now have marble styled colours, so you can have the marble look, with a bit more durability, or even genuine marble as an accent.

V: And what do you enjoy about your own kitchen?

S: Lots of things... but a big plus is a dedicated space for my coffee machine, with seating nearby for friends and family to relax and hang out.

Adaptable to all sizes and shapes and all the motions you go through every day while seated, Aeron provides healthy comfort and balanced body support with its innovative suspension and easy-to-use adjustment controls.

Work chair, side chair, and stool support all kinds of office work.

94% recyclable

MIRRA 2: Designer Studio7.5 As work evolves, and we become more active, flexing from individual to collaborative work in an instant, Mirra 2 moves with you, at one with your body.

When you sit, Mirra 2 adapts to you instantly. Shift, and it dynamically supports even your slightest movements. By rethinking every part of a successful design, we advanced how Mirra 2 moves with you.

The Mirra 2 Butterfly Back is a hybrid structure, formed by merging a fabric layer with polymer veins creating an intelligent support to keep your body in healthy alignment.

93% recyclable

SAYL CHAIR: Designer Yves Béhar Herman Miller asked designer Yves Béhar to design a highly affordable chair that would incorporate everything Herman Miller is known for – beautiful design, first-class ergonomics, elegant engineering, and respect for the environment.

Béhar, who calls San Francisco home, began by looking at designs that deliver the most with the least. He then took a look at his city’s best-known landmark: the Golden Gate Bridge.

91% recyclable

Visit our new showroom at 7 Melrose Place, Newmarket 09 379 3084 kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Auckland Head Office & Design Showroom Level 2, 165 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland.

Contacts: 09 972 2493 or 021 571 099 paul@unisonworkspaces.co.nz www.unisonworkspaces.co.nz — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 79

NEWMARKET NEWS

MEET ANDY HOWSON OF SITKA, OSBORNE STREET

NEWMARKET GIVING AWAY THOUSANDS OF $$$!

Meet Andy, lover of people, quality products, and the outdoors. He looks after Sitka’s operations in New Zealand and Australia.

The Newmarket Business Association (NBA) is trialling some new strategies to help activate the main shopping areas — as well as the side streets and laneways off Broadway. They recently held Newmarket’s inaugural Christmas Fest, which saw huge crowds of shoppers enjoying the Newmarket precinct. The atmosphere was electric with street performers, musicians, DJs, food stalls and of course Santa and his helper. Shoppers and diners were out and about having a good time and doing their Christmas shopping.

In addition to ChristmasFest the NBA, in partnership with key sponsor ANZ Newmarket, and a large number of Newmarket businesses, has launched an innovative new Christmas campaign ANZ & Newmarket Undercover Santa. The premise behind undercover Santa is that Santa is ‘undercover’ and surprises shoppers by handing out vouchers and gifts that have been provided by ANZ and Newmarket businesses. To make the campaign even more exciting the NBA has asked a number of wellknown New Zealanders to act as Undercover Santa’s.

Newmarket Business Association Chief Executive, Mark Knoff-Thomas says, “ANZ Newmarket has contributed an amazing $10,000, and Newmarket businesses have been incredibly generous with gifts and vouchers, worth over $12,000. So far our Undercover Santa’s have been Colin Mathura-Jeffree, Nadia Lim, John Callen, Shane Cortese, Kerre McIvor and Mark Hill-Rennie — regional manager from ANZ. We have many more to come, including politicians, some television stars, radio hosts and others!

The campaign runs seven days a week, right up until 22 December. You can follow all the action on our Facebook page — Newmarket Experience.”

The major prize of $5,000 will be drawn at midday on 23 December 2014. See in stores for details — get shopping!

Verve: Tell us a bit about Sitka, the name and the retail business.

Andy: Sitka is in the business of Wilderness Activism. Our solid vision is to create a world in balance, respecting the natural wilderness and growing in a way that complements it. We do this by engaging our communities through inspiration, conservation and the provision of purposeful goods for exploring the natural world. The name Sitka is derived from the Sitka spruce tree, and was born in 2002 by Andrew Paine and Rene Gauthier, surfing buddies who shared a common vision of creating a business shaping surfboards on Vancouver Island in Canada.

From these humble beginnings, Sitka has evolved to be one of the global leaders in the hybrid business sector, completely removing the lines between traditional business operations and charitable conservation work. Our three community centres (of which Osborne Street is one) around the globe are used for communal gatherings, educational talks, live gigs, and bases for charitable operations.

V. What makes Sitka different from other clothing/lifestyle outlets?

A. We create purposeful, quality products for exploring the natural world, and every product we produce must satisfy rigorous scrutiny through our four pillars of production: sustainable, purposeful, quality, and domestically produced where we can. A truly conscientious choice for the consumer.

MEET BRIAN LENDERS OF TEED STREET LARDER Brian Lenders, operations manager for V & M Cafés (Teed Street Larder, Toru in Ponsonby, Wai Kitchen in Waiheke, Scullery in K Road and Scratch Bakers, at the City Works Depot), has been in ‘hospo’ for 27 years and doesn’t regret a minute of it. He loves meeting new customers, and thrives on making sure they leave happy, and doesn’t anticipate a change of career path, ever.

Verve chatted to Brian about pointers to serving a good cup of coffee, and what they do to ensure that Teed Street Larder is top of the list amongst all who shop and work locally.

To learn more about this announcement, please contact: Contact: Mark Knoff-Thomas Newmarket Business Association 027 8844 334 mark@newmarket.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 80

Pointers of serving a good cup of coffee?

To get it right, always ensure that your grind is correct. As the day progresses you have to adjust your grind to make sure you get a perfect pour. In order to get the best result the beans has to be about five to eight days old after roasting before use. Very importantly, get to know your customers and always make sure what you put in their cup is fantastic.

What makes Teed Street Larder stand out?

First of all, great location. Plus we are very committed in what we do. We employ great staff who are very passionate about the industry. We always work with the freshest ingredients when writing our menus. Menus are also structured around new exiting ingredients and moving on with the times.

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New release of apartments located in the heart of Auckland, starting from $389,000

• Located in the heart of Broadway, 88 is north facing and enjoys sweeping views of the harbour, Mt Hobson and the city panorama.

• Luxuriously appointed apartments and townhouses designed with all the comforts of modern living.

• Within walking distance of Auckland Boys Grammar, Epsom Girls Grammar and the University of Auckland.

• Surrounded by an array of restaurants, cafes, entertainment venues and boutique shops.

• 88 Broadway features a selection of studios, 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments.

• Construction commencing in late 2014.

Actual View from select apartments

Visit 88broadway.co.nz to register your interest Display suite now open onsite at 88 Broadway, Newmarket 10 – 4pm daily

James Graydon 021 825 746 james.graydon@raywhite.com

David Parker 021 982 383 david.parker@raywhite.com

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 81

SO MUCH TO SEE. ALL FOR FREE. Everythinags’ ‘home idepot in one s FREE EN TR 7 DAYS AY FOR ALL WEEK Auckland

Home Ideas Centre Auckland 26 -27 Ju 10am - 4pm ly FREE ENTR Y

All the care you need in the comfort of your own home.

There are many reasons why you will love living at Remuera Rise, and one of the most appealing and beneficial aspects is that we can provide high quality, personalised care into each of our luxury apartments.

All you need including meals, cleaning, caregivers, medical help and more, is available as part of our bespoke service to residents. And whether this in-home help is temporary, for a few hours a week or more comprehensive 24-hour care, the level of support can be tailored for you, depending on your needs.

We recognise how important it is to you to be cared for within the privacy of your own apartment, surrounded by all the things you cherish. If this is the level of support and comfort you have been looking for, then talk to us today about our beautiful, one-bedroom apartments, priced from only $399,000.

OPEN DAY Thursday 22nd January 10am – 4pm.

At Remuera Rise you also have the added reassurance that all of our care is backed up by our boutique 12-bed Care Facility on site. We go out of our way to make you and your family feel welcome and at home — and if you have friends or family visiting from out of town, they can stay in our special luxury guest suite.

For more information about living at Remuera Rise contact Carolyn on 0800 00 15 85. Our sales office at 30 James Cook Crescent, Remuera is yad10am sruh–T4pm. Or visit www.remuerarise.co.nz open Monday to Saturday,

YAD NEPO

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 82

Energi J15037 | Remuera Rise is registered under the Retirement Villages Act 2003. Registration number 2557887

The Stran Christchu d, Parnell rch Wellington Mandeville St, Ric carton Cnr Espla nade & H utt Rd

KINGS PLANT BARN

THE HUNGRY CATERPILLARS Words: Billy Aiken, Kings Plant Barn

are surprisingly voracious, and will easily demolish small plants when left to their own devices. To help the plants, I tend to limit the number of caterpillars to two to three on each plant by removing some eggs.

Planting Position: Full sun Planting distance: 1m Planting: Dig a hole twice as deep and twice as wide as the pot your plant comes in. Partially back-fill the hole with a mixture of topsoil, compost and a handful of sheep pellets, to the height of the pot.

Gently take swan plant out of its pot, place in hole, firm in using remaining topsoil mixed with a little compost. Water in.

As a gardener, I find growing swan plants, the host plant for the monarch butterfly’s caterpillars, to be a weird though satisfying experience. From stripey caterpillars to graceful butterfly, there is no time during their lifecycle when they don’t look amazing.

However, I’ve spent far too much time fighting against caterpillars to be wholly comfortable with them. But despite this, I spent some time last year endangering myself on their behalf, as I sought to aid them in their fight against wasps (or more accurately I tried to stop them being killed). After some terrifying attempts at engaging them in armed combat with a pair of scissors, I was finally seen resorting to using wasp traps.

Growing the swan plants themselves isn’t difficult. They can be grown from seed or bought as plants. But be warned, the caterpillars

The Butterfly Garden If you want to keep the monarchs around, it’s worth making sure that your garden is full of food (nectar rich plants). This needn’t be a chore, as most look great. Useful plants include asters, hebes, cleome, hyssop, bee balm, cat mint, verbena, coneflower, dianthus, phlox, sweet william, and Zznnias.

Pests Wasps: In early summer they tend to eat the caterpillars. Try using a wasp trap, or if you are growing in a pot, change its position in the garden as they tend to return to the same spots.

Aphids: Weakens the plant, which can mean less food for hungry caterpillars. Sadly most sprays will also kill your caterpillars so you may have to resort to squashing them.

Find more of Billy’s articles online at:

www.kings.co.nz/in-the-garden/gardening-news

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Over 10,000 square feet of the finest laid-back living on display 10 Morningside Drive, Kingsland, Auckland. Phone 0800 POYNTERS or 09-815-1580 Email info@poynters.co.nz www.poynters.co.nz — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 83

Palmers’ Powerhouse, Delma Harrison Words: Verve Magazine

Delma Harrison trained as a private secretary, but the challenge of her own business was always an attraction. As a working mum she started in hospitality in 1978 as owner/ operator of many successful restaurants, pubs and bars in Auckland. The Carlton Tavern and Brasserie in Newmarket topped many locals’ lists as their favourite place to wine, dine and party! In 2006 the Harrison family purchased Palmers Gardenworld franchise in Remuera, and as we all know, never looked back. Delmanow runs the three businesses simultaneously, with eldest son Jonathan as her business partner. Verve’s Debbie Lovelock caught up with Delma at Palmers Café Greengingers.

Verve: Palmers Remuera is virtually a local institution, one filled with the magic of flowers, trees and every variety of plant. If you had to pick the most important factors you feel have contributed to Palmers Remuera’s success, what would they be?

Delma: Passion to build a team of ‘qualified professional’: we employ 50+ staff over the three businesses. Our goal is to create a welcoming ambience for clients. As a family business we are working hands-on seven days. Customer service is our utmost priority, when customers have problems they visit for our expert advice. Unique original stock in plants and decor with ‘wow’ factor is also our daily challenge.

charm and appeal. Tell us about your most recent guerilla gardening project.

D: For 17 years Grant of Bettjemans’ hair salon looked out onto the garden on the corner of Paora Street and Coates Avenue, which eventually deteriorated into a shambles! Grant commented about the state of it to a client who suggested he check out the Guerrilla Gardening website to see how this movement has grown around the world. The philosophy behind this website is to encourage people to commandeer public land to either beautify or produce food on this space. Grant loved the idea and asked his friend and local resident, Delma, if Palmers Remuera would be interested in getting financially involved to support this community project.

Delma, of course jumped at the idea and engaged Palmers landscape manager, Stuart Ferries, to draw up a landscape design plan. Eventually the Orakei Local Board gave permission. Once the button was pushed, Palmers landscape division swung into action and their team of experienced landscapers, rock wall specialists delivering, plants and artificial turf happened almost simultaneously. The water system was linked into the salon so that the garden will grow no matter what the weather. Full LED lighting has been set up to ensure that the garden looks beautiful day and night. The response from the community has been more than phenomenal, and the best thing about it is that we have enjoyed every minute of the process, and will continue to do so….. such is the nature of a garden.

V: Thank you Delma. In closing, do you have a special message you would like to give to Verve readers?

D: Thank you to all our valued customers for supporting our family business. We sincerely appreciate your loyalty, and would love to invite Verve readers who visits us before Christmas to a free coffee in our famous, award winning café. Just present this coupon.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the team at Palmers Gardenworld.

Time to come to Palmers Remuera.

V: What are your three all-time favourite plants, and why?

T. I love exotic plants like Australian grass trees. Blowing in the wind they look spectacular and are excellent for that sculptured landscape look. Native New Zealand trees that stand so proud and structured. And there is nothing quite like a rose: I take such pleasure in their fragrance and the beauty of the petals. Jonathan Cox is our on-site rose specialist.

V: Guerilla gardening is a fabulous concept, one filled with

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 84

09 524 4037 176 Shore Road Remuera, Auckland www.palmers.co.nz

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Enquiries call Delma 02 186 7072

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 85

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0800 33 66 77 — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 86

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LAUREN MATTHEWS Lauren Matthews has had a somewhat unexpected, and paradoxically, natural journey into the world of culinary business. After university, and a short advertising stint, her love of food paved her way. Lauren has been food writing and styling for a number of New Zealand’s top lifestyle magazines for a number of years. And, her boutique catering company, The Kitchen Collective, is on an uphill trajectory. From humble beginnings cooking at friend’s soirees, it is now feeding some of Auckland’s most fashionable companies, top corporates and regular private clients. She one day hopes to be the next Nigella, so if there’s any television producers out there, be sure to get in touch! www.thekc.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 87

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Lauren Matthews from boutique catering company, The Kitchen Collective, shares with us three easy holiday recipes.

Preparation in my family home starts well before Christmas day. There’s the always intimating turkey to baste for hours on end; a seemingly never-ending stream of cream to whip to be slathered onto the pavlova; all of the trimmings to dice and chop before cooking, and of course the whole ham to pin with cloves and other flavourings. And while I enjoy a freshly carved piece of ham on the day, one thing is certain — there will always be leftovers. So, in the days following your Christmas feast, I suggest you forget the same ol’ boring leftover scenarios, and turn your bounty of ham into something more worthy

Photos: Mauricio Cachay Recipes, words, and food styling: Lauren Matthews

HAM AND POTATO ROSTI

This recipe is perfect for a relaxed brunch — especially easy if you happen to have leftover boiled potatoes, too.

3 medium boiled potatoes half a finely minced shallot 1 tablespoon of butter half a cup of diced ham 2 eggs olive oil salsa verde (optional) baby rocket (to serve)

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 88

Preheat oven to 220 degrees on bake. It’s important that the potatoes are cool for this recipe. If you’re cooking the potatoes fresh, shock them in ice water once they are tender, and leave them to soak until cold. Grate potatoes and place in a bowl with shallots, ham, and butter, season well and mix. I cooked mine in a mini ovenproof skillet, but you could always use a muffin pan. Grease pan or tin and place mixture into the moulds. Cook for 15 minutes or until the potato is crispy. Serve a soft poached egg on top, and drizzle with salsa verde. Serve alongside a simple salad of baby rocket, olive oil and salt.

HAM, BUFFALO MOZZARELLA AND BURNT SAGE BUTTER TOASTIE

Sandwiches don’t need to be boring, and sandwiches that aren’t boring don’t need to be complicated. This creation fits this description perfectly. The burnt sage butter compliments the normally subtle flavours of ham and cheese with an exciting flavour explosion.

4 slices of crusty baguette 4 slices of ham 4 slices of thickly cut buffalo mozzarella butter a handful of fresh sage leaves

Slather one side of each piece of bread with butter. The buttered sides should be on the outside of the sandwich.

Layer ham and cheese within the unbuttered sides of bread.

In a fry pan, on a low heat cook the sandwich for four minutes on each side until the bread has crisped up golden and the cheese has melted. Once cooked, remove from pan.

In the same pan, turn the heat up and place two tablespoons of fresh butter, letting it melt and bubble, it doesn’t take long for butter to burn, so watch closely, it will turn a caramel colour within 10-15 seconds. As this happens, throw the sage leaves into the pan coating them with the butter, and allow them to cook slightly. To serve, place sandwich on plate and drizzle with the burnt butter sage sauce.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 89

SUMMER PASTA OF HAM SNOW PEAS AND RICOTTA

Ham and pea is a classic combination, generally only reserved for heavy winter soups and other cold-monthcentric dishes. This recipe, however, throws that notion out the window completely. It’s incredibly simple in flavour, and preparation, allowing you to have an impressive dinner on the table in ten minutes flat. half a packet of fresh spaghetti one handful of snow peas two slices of diced ham 1 clove of garlic 3 tablespoons of fresh ricotta

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 90

Cook pasta according to instruction on packet (generally 3-5 minutes), while pasta is cooking take stems of the snow peas (the stem runs down the middle and should pull off easily), it’s important to remove these as they can be tough and stingy. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water, then drain. In the same pot, toss the pasta with minced garlic, snow peas and ricotta — the heat from the pasta will cook the garlic and slightly steam the snow peas.

If the ricotta doesn’t melt to make a sauce, add a tiny bit of the pasta water until it forms a creamy coating. Season well and serve immediately.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 91

Full of Beans Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

They say you can tell a lot about a man from the way he takes his coffee, but my order (usually a toss-up between a flat white and a long black, no sugar, in case you were wondering) often depends upon my mood, the time of day and who’s making it. We should refrain from casting judgement upon a person’s character by the strength of anything as inconsequential as their beverage choice, but if any single order is longer than four syllables (seven, if you count “double shot”), then silent mocking is acceptable.

I haven’t always been a coffeeholic. There wasn’t much of a café culture in Birmingham when I left nearly a decade ago, with most coffee coming courtesy of a Nescafe jar. I stuck with tea. I’d never even heard of a flat white until I first arrived Down Under. It sounded like the latest designer underground club drug. Turns out, it’s far more addictive.

The Vietnamese also offer a delicious brew. It’s like a dessert, dripped through a small filter atop of a glass with a layer of sweet, syrupy condensed milk. Vietnam, you may be surprised to hear, is actually the world’s second largest exporter of coffee (Brazil is top, Columbia third), with 20% of the global market share. That’s up from 0.1% three decades ago. Since 1994, the number of Vietnamese living below the poverty line has dropped from 60% to less than 10, thanks, in great part, to that humble bean.

The six weeks I spent touring Vietnam were among the happiest and most rewarding of my life. The country gets under your skin.

The people are incredible, the scenery stunning. The town of Dalat is tucked deep into the central highlands, surrounded by tropical rainforest and sprawling tea and coffee plantations. It is also home to a rather unusual cuppa called Cà phê chon, or weasel coffee, brewed from the undigested remains of beans excreted (yes, excreted) by said beast. I couldn’t tell you the best the coffee I’ve ever tasted, but I sure as hell can tell you which was, literally, the most shit. Here are a few more java gems for your digestion. Enjoy.

• The Yunnesun Spa resort in Japan provides a facility for guests to bathe in coffee made with hot spring water. If you don’t like the sound of that, there are always the sake or green tee options.

• After oil, coffee is the most valuable traded (legal) commodity on Earth.

• Each day, 1.6 billion cups of coffee are consumed.

Tea consumption, however, is twice that.

• New Yorkers consume seven times more coffee than other US cities.

• Coffee is technically a fruit. The bean is actually the pit of a berry.

• No one knows for sure who first discovered that coffee could be consumed, though one popular legend is that an Ethiopian goat herder noticed his animals went a little crazy after eating those berries and thought he’d give it a try himself.

• Brewed espresso contains more calories than filtered coffee.

• No coffee, no Skype! The very first webcam was invented at Cambridge University so they could see whether or not the pot was full.

• Coffee, it turns out has a plethora of healing benefits, it’s bad reputation was the result of old studies that didn’t take into account that a substantial number of coffee lovers also loved smoking, alcohol and hated exercise.

• A study by the Harvard School of Public Health found coffee created up to a 35% lower incidence rate of Type 2 diabetes. Recent European studies have discovered it lowers the risk of dementia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

• Our modern day version of coffee has Middle Eastern roots. Since the 13th century, the drink made from roasted beans has been the beverage of choice for much of the Muslim community.

• The first European-owned coffee estate was established in Sri Lanka by the Dutch in 1616. Later the French founded plantations in the Caribbean, the Spanish in Central America and the Portuguese in Brazil.

• Don’t throw out your used coffee grounds. They can be stuffed into old stockings as homemade air fresheners, will remove scratches from wood and even tenderise your meat.

• Other uses include unclogging drains, cleaning the fireplace, scouring pans and making play-dough. Not only do they make a fine fertiliser, but the smell will repel slugs and cats. Make candles with them, rejuvenating face masks, paint, face scrub and soap.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 92

Tasca’s Mediterranean Olive Garden Cafe

A favourite game of Tasca’s staff is to take unsuspecting customers through the café, and watch amazement turn to delight on their faces as they see the courtyard garden… “this is the last thing you’d expect on Dominion Road” is the usual reaction!

It has always been an oasis of escapism, and now, whilst retaining its humble origins, the Olive Garden is THE place to be this summer.

With extended seating areas and a state of the art retractable awning, no matter what the weather, relaxed eating and drinking Spanish style is the order of the day at Tasca.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 93

STYLED BY LAUREN FREEMAN. AS FEATURED IN THE 2014 FESTIVE HOME TOUR.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 94

NEW STORE VERVE DECEMBER 2014// 95

The Wine Rack

Words: Dennis Knill

What I enjoy most during vintage is the sight of primordial vines dotted along the hillsides and the heavy perfume of grapes that lingers across the landscape. More than any other New Zealand wine region, Marlborough is all its own, standing shoulder to shoulder with the great wine regions of the world.

Having visited the region many times, I have assembled my own hall of fame, representing entrepreneurism and innovation, one member being Peter Yealand. Peter’s entry into the wine industry 14 years ago may have seemed an unlikely choice for this modest gent who ordinarily shies away from the cut and thrust that consumes the modern world of wine.

Until Peter entered the industry it had been the big wineries who led the way and who snared the major part of the market. Peter’s route to the wine industry was a little less orthodox than most, but the former mussel farmer had such a burning passion for wine he decided to create his own winery.

It’s true Peter doesn’t own a suit and would rather be in the vineyard on his bulldozer (where he was when I first met him) repairing fences or boring postholes than chairing corporate meetings. But don’t let this modest attitude to life fool you into thinking Yealands Estate isn’t revolutionising the wine industry.

From its very conception, Peter’s aim was to become the most sustainable winery in the world and to produce award-wining wines. An audacious task and a goal rife with challenges and one that has been accomplished many times over, with these distinctions due entirely to Peter’s wealth of business expertise and sheer tenacity.

While it’s true that initiatives like sustainable wine growing now play a pivotal part of the New Zealand wine

industry, Yealands Estate is unique in that it was the first winery in the world to be carboNZero certified, meeting international standards of greenhousegas emissions from its very inception. In its short time of evolution, Yealands has become a major player and a picturesque showcase of a diverse habitat of grapes with the largest acreage of grapevines in New Zealand. And while it balances a focus on the traditional wine styles, the addition of newly emerging varieties such as gruner veltliner and viognier are setting the pace for the industry. For the avid wine lover the burning question remains, do their wines stack up? Absolutely! Here are three from my cellar you should try.

Yealands ’14 single block Sauvignon Blanc RRP $25. Displaying rich and vibrant flavours, with a long crisp clean lingering finish on the palate. This wine is ready to drink now. Serving suggestions: seafood, green-lipped mussels, summer salads.

Crossroads ’12 Talisman $50. A fullbodied classic red with a mystic twist of structured blends known only by the wine maker. Clean and supple on the palate with soft tannins. Rich and satisfying in flavour. Serving suggestions: red meats, lamb, duck.

Yealands ’13 winemakers reserve Gibbston Central Otago Pinot Noir $40.

Beautifully balanced with intense flavours, oozing with citrus characteristics. A unique sweetness that is crisp and toned finished with a light but enduring textural acidity. Serving suggestions: seafood, shellfish, chicken, pork.

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UNDERSTANDING SPARKLING WINES Christmas is about feasting with family and friends and sparkling wines remain the drink of celebration. In New Zealand there are a growing number of sparkling wines made in a variety of styles.

Beyond the traditional grapes of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, you can find sparkling Riesling and sparkling Pinot Gris as well blends of these wines. Sparkling Sauvignon has also created its own loyal following.

There are a number of methods available to trap the bubbles of carbon dioxide in a bottle: •The traditional method or methode traditionelle is when a still wine has fermented for a second time in the bottle in which the wine is sold. Champagne is the most famous example of this, however Cava from Spain is also made in this style. New Zealand method traditional has some excellent examples such as, Cloudy Bay Pelorus and No1 Family Estate, who make a selection of styles.

•Tank fermented sparkling wine is a cheaper process and this is reflected in the price that you pay. Good examples come from Asti with the aromatic muscat grape and Prosecco from Italy.

•Carbon dioxide added to a still wine is used to add sparkle to many of our sparkling Sauvignon Blancs.

Teas brewed for tasting from 11am-1pm (Closed Thursdays & Sundays)

Exquisite tea wares and personalised hampers make ideal Christmas gifts. Order online or call into the shop Tel: 021 877 465 or 09 578 0828 / www.bolutea.co.nz

Many sparkling wines use the Champagne descriptors on their label to explain the level of sweetness from dry to sweet or ‘doux’ suitable for enjoying with dessert.

Brut nature or zero dosage: dry, less than 3 g/l with no sugar added at dosage.

Extra brut: bone dry: 0-6 g/l residual sugar.

Brut: dry less than 12 g/l residual sugar.

Sec: medium dry 17-32 g/l residual sugar.

Demi-sec: medium sweet 32-50g/l residual sugar.

Doux: sweet, from 50 g/l residual sugar and upwards.

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 96

THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING Words: Julien Erwin

What on earth do the Romans, geese and canon balls have to do with our delectable Christmas pudding?

Perhaps the canon ball is obvious — it is the shape of the pudding. Geese? They had to be sacrificed for many reasons, not the least of which was that the winter loomed and food had to be preserved and stored.

As for the Romans? They used to make a meat and vegetable concoction called a pottage, the texture of which resembled a sort of porridge that was cooked in a cauldron over a low fire for hours, even days.

The humble origins of the pudding can be traced back to the 1400s or even earlier. There are two sources, both of which were based upon the need to preserve food supplies through uncompromising winters. Times were harsh and fodder in short supply, so livestock were slaughtered in autumn and preserved well in advance. The first source is the ‘pottage’, a thick stew comprising a mixture of meat, fish and poultry, which could be kept simmering for days as forests rendered a steady supply of fuel for the wood fires. This boiled dinner in a single pot was a firm favourite in Medieval England. For those able to afford it, dried fruit from Spain and the Levant were added along with sugar and spices to create elaborate stews.

Many of the recipes for joutes, cawdel fery, bukkenade, white porray charlet, mortrews, mawmenny and the gold and white ‘blanc desore’ survive to this day. Pottages were either runny or ‘standing’, the latter having had egg yolks, suet and breadcrumbs added to them. A mawmeny royal mixture contained ‘teased’ mince in the form of shredded game or poultry and, for those who could afford it, ground almonds, spices, sugar and dried fruit.

A standing pottage with the rather dull name of ‘Stewed Broth’ can probably claim to be the direct forerunner of

our modern day Christmas delicacy. It made its appearance in the early 1420s as a stiff pottage of mutton, chicken or veal flavoured with currants, coloured by red sanders (sandalwood) and thickened with breadcrumbs and suet.

The recipe for the famous Scottish ‘cock-a-leekie’ survived many additions and changes that other desserts succumbed to through the introduction of exotic ingredients from the Continent and Levant, including the addition of plumbs. In Elizabethan times the word plum became an all embracing term for a variety of dried fruits — hence the familiar name — ‘plum pudding’.

The second source of our Christmas pudding is the ‘minced pie’. Like the pottage, meat, fish and poultry were slaughtered before winter and baked together with dried fruits and fat in a tough flour casing. These were called ‘pyes’ or ‘cof fyns’. Sugar and honey were costly, so dried fruit was substituted. Besides, it was an excellent preservative.

By the late eighteenth century sugar had dropped in price and methods of preserving meats had become more sophisticated. This encouraged the separation into two forms of ‘pyes’ — the savoury and the sweet. The mixture was often wrapped in a cloth and placed into a bowl, which was then steamed for hours. Hence the round canon ball shape.

Fat in the form of butter was left out and served either brushed over the top of the pies or served as a hard paste on the side, to which was added red wine or brandy. Hidden inside the pies were coins or lucky charms representing good wishes and luck for the coming year. Pottages went the same route and the thick sweet and sour staple split into a savoury and a sweet meal.

Today we usually serve our plump and rich Christmas pudding speckled with currents, beautifully decorated with a topping of white icing, a sprig of holly and flaming in brandy.

ENJOY!

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 97

An Interview with Alex Herbert — Craftsman of Kingswood Skis Words: Jennifer Sheil

Gliding down a white wall of powder, a gleeful skier exudes raw excitement behind thick goggles and a woolly hat. The smile extends from the face down to the feet, where a pair of custom-made Kingswood skis rest lightly on the snow. The skier, eager to explore more of the mountain, speeds away, continuing the adventure with skis so unique to the skiers body type and skiing style, they seem to be extensions of the feet rather than something to be snapped on.

Alex Herbert created his first customised skis in 2005: a fat, blemished pair that, though ugly, skied like a dream, paving the way for months of work moulding the ultimate powder-surfing equipment. Now, Herbert has become a trailblazer in the local skiing community of New Zealand. A self-professed ‘ski-bum,’ Alex spends his days with his wife and Kingswood business partner, Kris, and their family, surfing the snowy slopes during the winter season, and, of course, working as the handyman for his Kingswood business: crafting individually-tailored skis perfectly fit to each customer’s skiing needs. ‘Quality only hurts once,’ spells out the Kingswood slogan — the very first of its kind.

We at Verve spent some time asking Alex about his lifestyle, his dream to create the ‘perfect skis,’ and his desire to develop a living from the sport that he cherishes.

Verve: Alex, can you provide a little background story on how Kingswood skis came to be since your first prototype in 2005?

Alex: Ever since high school, I’ve basically been a ski bum. I travelled around the world skiing, following winters. I started entering competitions, and back then, we were all skiing on really long, straight skis. I saw these American guys at a competition competing with skis much wider than ours. They were just floating in the snow, and as a result, they were doing — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 98

a lot better than us. I started pushing for these types of skis, but I was told there was no market in New Zealand for ‘fat skis’. Meanwhile, in the States, they were skiing on wider and wider skis, and we just couldn’t get them here. So, out of my frustration, I decided that I was going to make my own pair. I had my own ski repair shop in Christchurch then, and before that I worked in Austria and Australia in ski repair shops, so their construction wasn’t a mystery to me. I went about it in the Spring of 2005, and we used car jacks and it was totally rudimentary, but I managed to make a pair of skis that looked really ugly. There were lots of air bubbles and blemishes, but they worked surprisingly well. They were just the shape that I was after, so it was a really awesome feeling. Over a few months, I started getting better at constructing them, ironing out some of the mistakes, and then before long, I started getting people skiing on them and inquiring about them. I began making sets for people, and discussed how much it would cost, and then I started thinking ‘well, I might be able to make a business out of this.’ The idea was modelled off of surfboard shapers, where every local surf town has a guy that makes surfboards there for the locals, and I thought ‘why can’t I do that with skis’, you know?

V: On the Kingswood website it states that you are always on the hunt for the ‘perfect skis.’ Can you describe what the ‘perfect pair’ would be like?

A: The perfect skis depend on the condition of the day. One day might be a deep powder-day, and the perfect ski for that is a big, wide ski that’s made out of bamboo and fibreglass; it’s quite soft, but it’s stable and smooth — it glides along like silk and becomes the most epic feeling! But then, the next day, it might be icy and hard and bumpy, and that ski will be absolutely terrible for the icy conditions. The perfect ski for hard, icy days is a stiff, skinnier ski with a bit of side-cut, and a really sharp edge that will bite into that snow and carve along nicely. If you’re a keen skier and you ski regularly, you sort of need to have at least two pairs of skis. For people who go ski touring or want a light setup, then their perfect skis would be made out of carbon, which we also make in the workshop: they’re very light, and easy to carry. If you do ski touring, you’re actually walking with your skis, so the perfect ski does really depend on the conditions. I’ve definitely found my perfect ski for certain conditions. Also, what’s perfect for me might not necessarily be perfect for somebody else, and that’s what Kris and I provide by running a custom-ski company, is that recognition that people ski differently, and have different weights, and preferences, and ski at different locations. There are quite a few variables

that need to be considered to make a ski that’s perfect for one person. That’s really the key, or the core, to our business, is that we can hone in and make a ski that is the closest fit to perfect, if not perfect, for each person.

V: What do you do as a business to help your customers find the perfect ski for them, because you obviously have to consider their skiing personality, don’t you?

A: Absolutely. I have a chat with the client, and find out where they ski. If someone says ‘I ski at Ruapehu all the time,’ I know what the conditions are like there. It’s often icy, and it really doesn’t get deep powder, so I would never try and sell a pair of wide skis to someone who skis up at Ruapehu. Then, I have to ask them their height and weight, and how long they’ve been skiing for, what sort of style of skiing do they do: do they prefer short and fast aggressive turns, or do they like to cruise and do swooping, wide, long turns? All that information narrows down what I need to make for them. For example, I might talk to a guy who is a ‘heli’ ski guide, and the only skiing he does is up around Mt. Cook using a helicopter. He’s always skiing powder, so I can make a ski that would be perfect for him! If they’re not that experienced or confident, I’ll make the ski a bit softer so it’s easier to ski, but in that case, when you get going really fast, it can get a bit bouncy. If you ski really aggressively, then you need a much stiffer ski. The very best thing is to actually see somebody ski. I go skiing quite a lot in the winter-time here, and I talk to people up on the mountain, and I see them ski, and then it’s really easy to get it just right if they’re interested in a pair.

V: Do you have a variety of customers, or are they mostly experienced skiers?

A: It used to be pretty much the sort of ‘hotshots’ around here that were into our skis, but over the years we’ve been making more models, and trying to make a broader range of skis so that we can attract a broader range of people, and that’s definitely been happening. So one day I might make a pair of skis for a woman who’s in her seventies, only 5’2” tall, and then the next day I might be making skis for a guy who flies all around the world skiing, who’s 6’2” and skis fast and hard. I think the one thing that our customers have in common is that they appreciate locally made things and a quality, customised product. People have a real aesthetic value, and enjoy knowing particular care is going into their skis, which are completely unique to them, so I think that’s the one thing they’ve all got in common. About 90% of our orders are local, and the majority of our orders come from right here in Christchurch. I think that is probably because skiers are seeing our skis up on the hills — there are a lot of Kingswood’s around. Within a two-hour drive there are ski areas around Christchurch, so we’ve got a lot of really good skiing right at our back door here, and a lot of skiers as well.

V: How do you and Kris envision the future of Kingswood?

A: We’d really love to be able to use slightly more natural materials in our skis, and we’ve been talking with Canterbury University about using natural flax fibers instead of fibreglass, and we’ve been discussing using cellulose injections instead of glues; obviously, the technology hasn’t quite caught up yet. As far as the business goes, we’re not too motivated to expand it or start employing lots of people. I really want to maintain our reputation, keep it tight and keep it tidy.

Keen to know more about Kingswood custom skis? Visit the Kingswood website at www.kingswoodskis.com or email Alex and Kris at info@kingswoodskis.com if you have any questions about the perfect ski for you!

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 99

HAL LINDES & THE DIRE STRAITS YEARS

Words: Angus St Clair Brown

It’s not everyday that one gets to shoot the breeze with a guitarist like Hal Lindes. Hal and Mark Knopfler were the lead guitarists for Dire Straits between 1980 and 1985. Brothers in Arms sold more than 30 million copies worldwide and basically formed the soundtrack to my childhood, so I guess you could say I was kind of excited to be talking to this guy.

And what a pleasure it was. Hal regaled me with stories from the old days in his relaxed Californian drawl. Turns out, he’s a big fan of New Zealand. “We played there a couple of times. From what I remember it was awesome.” In fact, coming here and to Australia are his fondest memories from that time. I tell Hal that the 1983 Love over Gold tour was my first concert experience — six years old at Western Springs listening to Dire Straits! “What, they (my parents) couldn’t find a babysitter?” Well, they probably could have, but I’m certainly glad they didn’t. Whilst in Auckland, the band members went to visit the pressing plant for the record company. Hal recalls that, “at the time, they were pressing so many Dire Straits records that the band had it’s own dedicated vinyl pressing machine, called, fittingly enough, ‘Dire Straits’!

This period was arguably the band’s creative zenith. Making Movies and Love Over Gold (their third and fourth albums) were doing extremely well and had dispensed with any criticism arising from their less popular second album, Communiqué. Incidentally, it’s at this point that Hal chides me for being ignorant of a song called News from that album. “Man, you gotta go do your Dire Straits homework so you can walk the talk!” Hal had joined in 1980 because, “Mark was looking for a second guitarist and I think he was looking for someone who was gonna beef up the sound a bit. We started out playing small clubs. Here in Los Angeles we played the Roxy, a showcase gig on the Sunset Strip, a small, but prestigious venue with a total capacity of only 400 — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 100

people, maximum. During that Making Movies, On Location tour, Dire Straits went from playing small clubs seating 300 or 400 people to selling out stadiums!”

The band’s popularity was skyrocketing on the strength of singles like Sultans of Swing, Romeo and Juliet and Tunnel of love. Still though, America was always one of the weakest markets for them.

“I think the band might be a little too subtle for American tastes.

Listening to Dire Straits was more like playing chess as opposed to playing checkers.”

Hal was hugely impressed with Mark Knopfler, the lead guitarist, vocalist and songwriter for the band. He tells me that Knopfler wrote prolifically and would turn up to their rehearsal room, Woodwharf, on the River Thames, with thirty or so songs, lyrics written and almost ready to go. “As a writer I think he was pretty generous. I mean he was pretty open-minded to listening to what people had to say and seeing if he could shape that into the direction that he had for the songs. It’s fascinating to be able to observe the creative mind and he’s very thoughtful obviously, these things don’t just pop out half-baked. He hones his craft. He chisels away. That’s one thing I kind of learned from him too is you gotta dig deep. He used to always say that too, ‘you gotta dig deep, meaning you’ve got to keep at it, polishing, refining and working hard until you get the result you’re looking for.’

Knopfler was perhaps the first rock musician to begin composing soundtracks for feature films. His break came with Local Hero, starring Burt Lancaster and Peter Riegert. Hal assisted with the recording of that soundtrack and was so enamored with the experience that in 1985 he left Dire Straits to begin working as a full-time score composer. Soundtrack legend, Hans Zimmer, gave him a crash course in how to score a film, a process that was far more complicated in those days. Mr. Zimmer ended the lesson in his strong German accent, “but basically, you just bullshit!”

But Hal was obviously well-suited to his new métier, with at least 56 credits to his name for feature films and television soundtracks.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 101

FINESSE FACE AND BODY CLINIC

INDULGE YOUR SENSES Located conveniently in the heart of Remuera Village (Upland Rd shops) — is a warm, welcoming and professional skincare salon. The highly qualified therapists at Finesse Face and Body Clinic are ready to indulge your mind, body and soul.

The clinic offers intensive anti-ageing skin treatments including IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), Microdermabrasion, Skin Needling (Collagen Induction Therapy), Non-surgical Facelift, Skin Peels and was first in Auckland to introduce the non-injectable SkinCoach Hyaluron Facial.

WE’RE SO PLEASED TO WELCOME SHANNON BUNN TO OUR NEWMARKET SALON 1 Short Street, Newmarket newmarket@servilles.co.nz 09 522 2544 BOOK ONLINE AT servilles.com

Says Finesse owner, Sue Crake: “while we have the best of technology at our fingertips, there is also a real place for classic hands-on facials. These tend to be overlooked, but the benefits of facials with face, neck and shoulder massage provide powerful antiageing and relaxing benefits. Reducing stress also reduces tension, which shows on our faces.”

Lymphatic drainage reduces puffiness and toxins, and tones muscles.

We offer a superb range of facials including Phyt’s — French organic products; Skin Deep — a New Zealand manuka-honey based range, and the cosmoceutical Osmosis infusions.

Specialising in body treatments for over 13 years, also highly popular are the Body Contouring and Ultrasound for Cellulite — delivering real results and helping women regain confidence in their bodies.

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GO FI8URE

CASH FLOW – DON’T LET YOURS GET DOWN TO A TRICKLE The third in a series of small business basics by Lisa Martin, managing director of professional bookkeeping and accounting firm, GoFi8ure.

Christmas is coming and ‘oh my goodness’ it’s also nearly the summer holidays. You’re probably going to close your business for a couple of weeks while everyone has a jolly good break.

That’s wonderful. We all need to recharge our batteries. But, unless you are in retail and plan to only close for a day or two, this basically means no income while you’re shut — and no income can have catastrophic effects on your cash flow.

If your accounts are organised and your bookkeeping is all up to date, this shouldn’t be a problem. You’ll likely have prepared your cash flow projections some time ago for this period and will have chased up your debtors to ensure all monies owing will come flooding through before you have to pay out holiday wages for your staff.

The trouble is that only a small percentage of small businesses are in this situation. Many meander along day-to-day without even thinking about what’s around the corner. Others tear through their business hours like a raging torrent with no time to stop and look at what’s going on. Come the end of the year, these businesses find that their cash flow has run dry and they have to borrow.

It’s a fact of life that small business owners are time short.

However, there are a few time-efficient strategies that you can put in place to ensure you don’t get caught out: • Control your costs — you should live and breathe this one.

• State payment terms on your invoices – so everyone knows when payment is due and you can instantly spot overdue payments.

• Send out payment reminders — send these out close to the payment date and as soon as a payment has been missed.

Generate reminders via your online accounting system and you can keep track of when you’ve chased and when its time for a firm phone call.

• Use financial forecasts — analyse your accounts, create projections to limit financial surprises.

• Know your finance options before you need to — know how and what you can borrow. Don’t wait until you’re on the brink before you visit the bank.

And if you don’t know where to start, ask your accountant or your bookkeeper — easy!

Lisa Martin Managing Director lisa@gofi8ure.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 103

THE BEAUTY LOFT

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Welcome to The Beauty Loft Day Spa, recommended for beauty and relaxation. We are not about spa-trends, but offer treatments that provide the utmost in relaxation and rejuvenation, with a personal touch.

Our therapists are highly trained and have been hand-picked because they have a genuine desire to take good care of our guests. With a true value in customer service, the therapists at The Beauty Loft Day Spa will make your day spa experience feel right at home.

Whatever your budget, we have a treatment package to suit at The Beauty Loft. Choose from our range of luxurious spa therapies and body treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. Talk to us today about designing a tailor-made spa treatment package for yourself.

CHECK OUT OUR CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Bliss Package - (90 minutes) $115 Hot Stone Back Massage & Customised Facial Includes: 30 minutes Hot Stone Back Massage, 1 hour customised facial (Rebalancing, Anti-Age or Sensitive Soothing). *After a strenuous workout or sitting at a desk all day, your back muscles are likely to be tense from overuse or repetitive use. Also give your face a fresh facial and get summer ready.

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 104

PLEASE LET MY BODY SURVIVE THE SILLY SEASON! The silly season can take its toll. But keep in mind it is only a couple of weeks — and life is short, so don’t deprive yourselves of having a good time!

pain). If you splash-out, do it on red rather than white wine (less carbs and more anti-oxidants) or opt for calorie light beer.

Trick: Stick to one glass of wine...yes I am serious.

The good news is, it is not the end of the world! Keep the following tips and tricks in mind when attending functions and parties, and you will survive with minimal damage.

Tip 4: Arrive full If you show up to a party with a growling stomach you’ll make unhealthy choices, because everything looks so good. Eat a small, healthy meal before the party. This way you can eat your favourites without becoming a slave to the growl.

Trick: For bring-a-plate parties, take something healthy such as a salad, grilled chicken or a fruit platter.

Tip 1: If you don’t love it, don’t eat it Learn to be selective — a very helpful skill. You don’t need to eat everything on offer. To be completely honest, we don’t even really like everything that we toss on our plate, sometimes we take it just because it’s there.

Trick: Don’t think ‘value for money’ — overeating is not worth it.

Tip 2: Enjoy the proteins Fill-up on lean proteins, their filling-up effect leaves you feeling satisfied and avoid other high-carb food items. Protein stimulates the release of the hormone glucagon — this helps your body process carbs more effectively by controlling blood sugar and acts against the fat-storage properties of insulin.

Tip 3: Avoid liquid calories Most brewed, mixed and processed beverage contains loads of ‘empty’ calories. Beware of the calories you drink this season!

For variety, go with flavoured and/or sparkling water, as it also helps you alternate drinks 1-for-1 with water (party without the

Tip 5: Small plate, control your portions Portion control and smaller plates — one of the best ways to control your calorie intake, but still enjoy your favourites.

Research has shown people faced with larger portions will eat beyond the point of fullness and thereby over-eat.

Tip 6: Chew, chew, chew Chew each mouthful at least 20 times. Take in the conversation, be part of it, then have another mouthful. It helps your body register your food intake and tells you when you’ve had enough.

Tip 7: Increase physical activities Exercise on the morning of the Christmas party or event. Plan to expend more calories (i.e. exercise) on the days you know you will be eating and drinking more.

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 105

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 106

What do these New Zealanders have in common?

They all trust Caci for cosmetic injections

Visit caci.co.nz to read more of their stories.

Call us for your free consultation.

Caci Epsom, 409B Manukau Rd | 09 638 8933 Caci Newmarket, 53 Davis Cres | 09 524 2784 — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 107

FERTILITY ASSOCIATES

NEW YEAR – NEW BABY The New Year and holiday break is often a time to contemplate what is important and make plans to get started on things we have been putting off. As a result I often see women in the early months of the year having decided ‘this is the year for a baby – let’s make it happen’.

If you are thinking of having a baby – or that you might want a family in the near future I would recommend the first thing you do is seek information – to get an understanding of your own unique situation.

It is also good to start some folic acid, 0.8mg daily and think about your lifestyle – reduce caffeine, stop alcohol and aim for that perfect Body Mass Index. Other areas I recommend are: Age: The Biological Clock is the most important factor when having a baby. Young women without fertility problems have a about a 25% chance per month of having a baby naturally if they try at the right time of the month. This falls to about 12% at age 37 and 5% at 42.

Today, we are seeing more women over 40 wanting to have their first child. It is possible, but you are also more likely to need help. To work out your chances visit our biological clock at fertilityassociates. co.nz.

how many eggs you are likely to obtain during an IVF cycle and can help identify who may experience early menopause. Like most tests AMH is not perfect, so you’ll need the help of a fertility specialist to interpret the results.

Other health conditions: If you have other conditions such as Polycystic Ovaries or Endometriosis it is also recommended you seek advice early to understand their potential impact on your chances.

Get him tested too: Of the couples we see, approximately 50% are experiencing fertility issues that stem from the male – so if it is taking longer than you think it should, don’t leave him at home.

Not met Mr Right? You do have options too, and you could benefit from talking through your options with a specialist or even calling the Free Nurse Consult. There is a waiting time for sperm donors, but if you approach your fertility clinic early, you are more likely to find a donor within your time frame.

If this is your year for having a baby – please start the conversation early with your partner, and with your GP or your specialist. Being informed is the best thing you can do.

How long to wait before seeking help: The online Biological Clock or App can also tell you how long to try naturally, before seeking help. For example if you are 39 years old you should consider seeking help after 5 months, and should definitely be seeking advice after 1 year. Every month counts when you are getting into your late 30s.

To find out more or to book an appointment with one of our top New Zealand fertility specialists visit fertilityassociates.co.nz or call 0800 255 522 Dr Mary Birdsall, Fertility Specialist, Fertility Associates

Fertility timeframe: Today we have the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test to estimate Ovarian Reserve. This test can help predict

“ I wish I had asked for help sooner” Everyone’s experience of having a baby is different.

The sooner you start fertility treatment, the better your chances of success.

Take the first step today: · by phone: Book a free nurse consult on 0800 255 522. · in person: Make an appointment with a top NZ fertility specialist. · online: Use our online Biological Clock to work out your chances and when to seek help. t o h av e a b e t t e r u n d e r s ta n d i n g ta l k t o o u r t e a m t o daY

fertilityassociates.co.nz | 0800 255 522* *From land line only

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 108

NICOLE ALYCE

FOOD FOCUS WITH RYAN RENWICK, THAT CHEF!

LIVING LIFE LEANER 10 HEALTHY HOLIDAY HINTS Tis’ the season to be jolly (without your belly shaking like a bowl full of jelly).

Ah December, my favourite time of the year, which everyone has more energy, a smile on their face and a bounce in their step.

With all of this joy in the air and the holiday season upon us, comes more and more social gatherings, often centred around good food and drinking.

This can cause some stress for people on weight loss missions, due to the extra (excess) calorie intake. As we all know, weight loss comes down to calorie-in versus calorie-out. That is, food intake versus exercise energy output. Not to worry — I have some great tips for staying lean this Christmas.

My top 10 tips to getting and staying lean over the silly season: 1. Drink more water. 3-4 litres per day minimum.

2. Eat your calories — don’t drink them. Stay fuller for longer.

3. Downsize your kitchen, use smaller plates, bowls and cutlery.

4. Get active, fasted morning walks kick-start your metabolism for the day and burn unwanted fat.

5. Eat fiber. At least half of your meal should consist of green veggies.

6. Eat fat-burning foods. Spices have a thermogenic effect and burn body fat.

7. Don’t crash or fad diet. KISS — Keep It Simple Stupid. Just eat healthy.

8. Time your carbohydrate intake around exercise times instead of having carbohydrate-heavy meals before bed.

9. Eat protein. Your body requires protein every 2-4 hours, so eat protein with every meal.

10. Eat more regular smaller portions. Ditch the three main meals and replace with 5-7 small meals, evenly spaced throughout the day.

Remember: be accountable for yourself! If you increase your food intake, you must equally increase your energy output.

Merry Christmas!

“Eat clean, train mean, live lean!”

Nic xx

SAGE

What do you use sage for in your kitchen? Stuffing maybe? Or perhaps to flavour a sauce? Well, you may be surprised to learn that there are many more uses for this diverse herb. Derived for the Latin word ‘save’ it has been widely used in the past to treat certain diseases, ranging from snakebites to salmonella poisoning. It has a considerable reputation as a remedy, given in small and often-repeated doses. It is highly serviceable as a stimulant tonic in debility of the stomach and nervous system and weakness of digestion generally. The Chinese for this reason, preferring it to there own teas, valued it. These reasons can all relate back to the name ‘save’.

Sage has also been used effectively for throat infections, dental abscesses, infected gums and mouth ulcers.

There is an old saying, “he who drinks sage in May, shall live for aye” and considering the uses listed above, this may not be far fetched.

It isn’t a herb you will find in many recipes, don’t be afraid to use it every now and then. It’s peppery taste can substitute pepper itself and the flavour from the leaf can enhance the tastes of your meal. Don’t be afraid of the texture of the leaf, when you cook it down, it softens considerably. Another option is to cut it into fine strips and fold it through a grain such as rice or barley.

With Christmas almost upon us I have listed my favourite bird stuffing for you to use these holidays.

2 tablespoons sunflower oil 150g piece of pancetta, cut into 5mm cubes 2 brown onions, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed 2 tablespoons shredded sage leaves 3 tablespoons toasted pine nuts Finely grated rind of 1 lemon 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 cups fresh sourdough breadcrumbs 2 eggs, lightly beaten Step 1 Heat the oil in a large fry pan over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until crisp and golden. Turn the heat to low, then add onion and garlic and stir for 5 minutes or until the onion is soft. Stir in the sage, then remove from the heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

Step 2 Combine the cooled onion mixture in a large bowl with the pine nuts, rind, parsley, breadcrumbs and eggs. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix well.

Nicole Alyce Owner Nicole Alyce Fitness Nicole Alyce is a locally based personal trainer with a background in competing and advanced nutrition. She owns Nicole Alyce Fitness and currently is working on producing both hard copy and online resources including her own recipe book and a series of ebooks and training plans.

Ryan is a chef in a nutritionally founded restaurant situated on Australia’s Gold Coast, focusing on the well-being of their clients. He is also involved in his own catering company and a nutritional consulting company start-up.

Ryan is currently in training for the Australian Ironman 70.3 series and the Queensland Triathlon Series.

Visit www.nicolealycefitness.com for more information — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 109

VERVE MAGAZINE Q&A WITH

MRS. CLAUS Verve: First things first, give us the lowdown on why you’re in Auckland.

Mrs. Claus: Last year, Santa and the elves decided to ditch the cold and prep for Chrissie down by the sea at Waterfront Auckland. I manned the fort back up north, but when the reindeer returned home and couldn’t keep quiet about what a glooooorious time they had, I got a little bit jellie. When the invite came through this year I just knew I had to hitch a ride on the sleigh and setup camp down in the Wynyard Quarter. It’s just marrrrvellous to be down in this part of the world – and finally be in a part of the world where Christmas starts first. That’s done wonders for the work/life balance, with the hubby able to start his deliveries well ahead of schedule.

V: And what do you make of it so far?

MC: Look, Kiwis have to be some of the friendliest people in the world – you get that a lot, don’t you? Well it’s true! It feels like my home away from home already! I must admit, I got a bit of an accidental red tan on my first day, so I’ve been doing that strange ritual ‘slip slop slap’ or something like that, but other than that, I’m having a blast. I am loving my early evenings at Baduzzi on North Wharf, swapping egg nog out for a bit of champagne whiplash! But it’s not all play – I had to do quite a bit of work to do tidying things up after the elves were left in charge last year.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 110

V: What’s the best part of your job?

MC: Knowing that we make people beside themselves with joy. I also get to have the final say on the naughty and nice list.

Sometimes Santa can be a bit of a tough old boot. My job is to mediate and provide a bit of easy and breeze to the debate.

V: What are you planning to do after the big delivery night?

MC: I’m still trying to get through The Luminaries - I keep getting distracted by those Kardashian ladies trying to break the internet.

So, it will be me, a glass of chard, Ellie Catton and the Kindle on the beach. Can’t wait.

V: You get to invite five people from past and present over for the big Chrissie roast. Who’s coming to dinner?

MC: Joan Rivers, JFK (pre-motorcade), Crocodile Dundee / Prince Tui Teka and Ebenezer Scrooge – I am obsessed with all things supernatural and I want the full lowdown on all that Marley’s Ghost carryon! And I’m stumped on the last one… um… Anna Wintour! That lady needs a potato or twenty. I’d fatten her up.

Mrs Claus, Santa and the elves will be residing at the ASB Santa’s Bach, as part of the free festivities taking place at Wynyard Christmas Quarter from December 5 until Christmas Eve. For more info visit www.yourwaterfront.co.nz/christmas.

VANITY BY STUDIO81

BEAUTY INSIDER

THIS SEASON’S HOLIDAY PARTY MAKEUP

STEP 1 Use a matte eye primer from lash line to brow bone. With a fluffy crease brush, use a matte peachy-pink shadow and lightly apply in crease back and forth.

STEP 2 With a dense, flat brush, firmly press black shadow on the eye lid, and blend into crease. Apply a white shimmery shadow to brow bone and inner corner of eye. Use a black gel liner to line inner rim of eye, and a thick line with flick on upper lid.

for

All I want

Christmas

a

is to get

little

sexy

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STEP 4 Apply false lashes and cover band with black gel liner. Apply concealer and foundation carefully around the eye makeup, and finish rest of face this way using a foundation brush. Contour with matte bronzer, peachy pink blush to cheeks, and a shimmery highlight powder to high points of the face. Finish with a nude lip pencil and a nude/peachy gloss.

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09 5222 581 www.studio81.co.nz 9 Teed St Newmarket — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 111

ST KENTIGERN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

KIDS HELPING KIDS

St Kentigern School for Girls braved the gusty showers on a recent Friday to cooperate in a school fundraising initiative for Sir Ray Avery’s charity Medicine Mondiale and its LifePod project.

“It’s all about kids helping kids,” said Sir Ray Avery.

201 girls formed orderly lines in a rectangular grid in the school grounds and lifting pieces of card above their heads in an amazing organised feat of symmetry, to form a banner to help raise awareness for the LifePod project.

The fundraising drive, which is parent-driven, raised $2,419 from the school community, which is enough to purchase one LifePod. The school community aims to raise a total of $20,000 for the project, which will enable the girls to purchase ten LifePods and to decide where they are to be sent.

Sir Ray Avery, who is also a parent at the school, gave a brief address to the girls prior to the event that inspired all present.

He stressed the importance of a great education, including learning to help others and being part of a team.

The LifePod Today’s incubators just aren’t designed to work in the hostile developing world environment.

They are expensive and need constant repairs and maintenance, purified water and uninterrupted power supplies, LifePods don’t.

LifePods purify their own air and water and run for ten years, saving up to 500 little lives for a fraction of the price of existing incubators.

“You are all capable of changing the world,“ he said. “By taking part in this event you are doing just that, changing the world.”

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 112

BABIES • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOLERS

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TINITELL

A WRISTPHONE FOR KIDS One of parents’ biggest fears is not knowing what their children are getting up to, but they also don’t want to end up smothering them. Sweden-based Tinitell is a wearable, voice-controlled phone for kids that are too young to own a smartphone.

Self-described as the ‘world’s smallest mobile phone’, the device looks much like a wristwatch, except that it has no display. Instead, it comes equipped with a mic, speaker and SIM card slot, as well as a small CPU that turns it into a useable phone. Parents first connect it to their smartphone via Bluetooth to load numbers onto it as well as register it with their device. Kids can then simply press the button on their Tinitell’s face and say the name of the person they want to call. They can also receive calls through the device, but only from the numbers loaded by their parent. Parents can track the location of their child on their smartphone, as well as see a calling list.

Tinitell offers functionality that connects parents with their children in an uncomplicated way, without any distracting features. The devices come in 4 different colors — Aqua, Indigo, Charcoal and Coral — and currently cost USD 129.

Could this kind of tracking capability be developed for older kids, who might want something more than just a phone on their wrists?

For more details go to www.tinitell.com

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 113

Christine Li: Organist Extraordinaire Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

Year 12 Diocesan student Christine Li is New Zealand’s only junior female organ scholar. What makes her achievement all the more remarkable is that she has only been playing the instrument for three years, and that’s on top of the grade 8 distinction awards she already has for the piano, viola and violin. I begin by asking how the organ compares.

“It’s a lot more intellectually complex because there are three things going on at once”’ she says. “I had no idea what an organ even looked like when I started, apart from the idea that it had some pipes. I was drawn to explore this world where a single person can conjure the sound of a sharp oboe or a warm flute, right up to an entire orchestra.” It was the organ’s unusualness that Christine felt attracted to. “I was no longer feeling particularly motivated by the other instruments and a senior member of the Diocesan music department suggested I give it a try,” she says. “He said that few other people play it, and it seemed pretty out there, so I thought, ‘sure, why not’.”

Among her achievements are the Statham Award for best New Zealand composition, playing the violin, and a KBB Award at the

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 114

New Zealand Chamber competition as a pianist. Christine was just five when she began playing the piano. I ask if her family is musical and she tells me with a chuckle that her dad thinks he can sing. His taste for punk clashes with the organ’s ethereal tones. “What I most love is getting out in the community,” says the affable student. “It’s so much more rewarding playing in churches and playing to actual people rather than banging along at home. Playing in a church, the atmosphere is incredible. You can feel that it’s a special place, you can feel the love and respect for the music and each other. I can communicate to them through my music, and that’s my favourite part.”

The first service she ever played, St Stephen’s Chapel in Parnell, was Christine’s proudest – and most terrifying – moment: “I messed up one of the hymns and I heard my teacher telling me to just keep going, that no one will notice. They were all too busy singing over the top!” She admits to nerves before her public shows. “I’ve done a few Christmas day services and while everyone else is relaxed on Christmas morning, I’m stressing out,” says Christine. “Though, I am definitely getting less nervous with practice.”

When not playing music, Christine spends her time debating and running. She has a keen interest in politics, a career path that’s under consideration. Next year she will sit a diploma for the organ and then Christine has her sights set on an organ scholarship at the United Kingdom’s Cambridge University. She recently met with renowned Notre Dame Cathedral organist Oliver Latry, which was an “amazing” experience. “I got to sit right next to him while he played,” beams Christine. “Watching his improvisation was just incredible.” And did he pass on any pearls of wisdom? “Just keep playing!”

She promises she will.

DIOCESAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

NEW STUDENT LEADERS SET TO INSPIRE An ability to inspire others is a skill that newly named Diocesan School for Girls 2015 Head Prefect, Alice Tilley, has in abundance. The international orienteering champion will be supported in her leadership role by 2015 Deputy Head Prefect, Hannah Rice.

Alice is well known at Diocesan for her sporting talents, including playing top level hockey and representing New Zealand numerous times in orienteering. Hannah also has a close relationship with many students, who have attended her one on one science tutorial sessions which she has run for the past few years. The two girls were voted for by their peers and their selection was hugely popular with both staff and students.

Deputy Principal at Diocesan, Christine Arthur, believes the two girls will make a great team and complement each other as they lead the School together in 2015. She says they are hugely involved in all aspects of the School, always striving for personal best in all they do and very inclusive of others – all characteristics of great leaders.

Both Alice and Hannah have been involved in Diocesan’s leadership programme which is an integral part of every Diocesan student’s education. Girls are challenged to understand that leadership is not a position but an attitude and way of being.

The School has adopted a servant leadership model which has six characteristics that are designed to enrich the lives of individuals and create a more just, caring world. A servant leader focuses on empowering and developing individuals and their communities, providing direction, accepting difference, being authentic and showing humility with an understanding of stewardship. 2015 is looking to be another great year for students at Diocesan as Hannah and Alice seek to inspire others to strive to be their best.

Christine Li, Year 12

SCHOOL

TOURS

Clyde Street Epsom Auckland P. +64 9 520 0221 diocesan.school.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 115

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 116

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MACKENZIE KENCH: SAILING SOLO Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I have two choices,” says Mackenzie Kench, “to be walked over or to challenge society’s views about people with impairments and medical conditions. I naturally do the latter.” The manner in which she does so is inspirational.

Twenty-one-year-old Mackenzie was diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy when she was just nine months old and can only communicate via a TalkLink computer, which she controls with her big toe. “Many people with severe cerebral palsy are not able to express themselves and consequently can’t provide feedback about their equipment,” says Mackenzie. “I am lucky because I am able to communicate, so I have the ability to improve things for myself and potentially for others too.”

In 2009, Mackenzie was named Person of the Year at the Attitude Awards. “That was such an honour,” she says. “One of my other proudest achievements was being the first of my siblings to graduate. I guess these are things nobody would have expected when I was first diagnosed with cerebral palsy.” And now sailing can be added to her list of remarkable accomplishments, using her toe to control the yacht. “My caseworker suggested I try the sailing simulator at the Otara Spinal Unit,” continues Mackenzie. “I did, and I haven’t looked back. I’ve always liked sports and sea life. Sailing is the best way for me to access these two things.” She has her sights set on the 2016 Paralympics. Only a fool would bet against such a determined lady getting there.

I ask Mackenzie what most motivates her. “Injustices,” she says.

“If I feel something is wrong, I have no problem in standing up to people to put them right. The biggest lesson I’ve learned in life is to never listen to anybody else if you have a gut instinct about something.” Mackenzie believes that everyone she has ever met, has, in some way, had an influence upon her. “I’m a typical 21st century female,” says Mackenzie. “To get a job I know that I need as many qualifications as I can. I did two post graduate papers this semester. I want a career, and I want a family. I also want to represent New Zealand, whether that is at the Paralympics, or as a political advisor. Additionally, I would like to see the word ‘disability’ removed from the dictionary and everyday use.”

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 117

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 118

ST CUTHBERT’S COLLEGE

ST CUTHBERT’S STUDENTS CONTINUE SUCCESS OVERSEAS They say that travel is an education in itself and every year increasing numbers of St Cuthbert’s students interpret this adage literally by spreading their wings to take up tertiary learning opportunities at prestigious overseas universities.

Over the past two years over 30 students from St Cuthbert’s College have taken up places at overseas universities, including places at United States Ivy League schools and top universities in the United Kingdom.

Head of Careers, Marianne Duston says the popularity of overseas study is growing.

“This year we have 25 students with overseas university applications in progress, nearly a fifth of our Year 13 cohort. The culture at St Cuthbert’s encourages our girls to set their sights high and for many of our students, that means an overseas tertiary experience.

“Places at these universities are hotly contested and our girls have proved they can succeed against other applicants worldwide. Last year our students received offers from Princeton, Cambridge, Julliard and Yale amongst others.”

St Cuthbert’s students are also taking top scholarship honours here in New Zealand with 90 scholarships to local universities offered for study in 2014 and 2015.

“The quality of teaching and learning at our New Zealand universities is of very high calibre, especially at the undergraduate level, and my role is to guide students towards the tertiary education pathway best suited to them, be it domestic or international,” says Mrs Duston.

Principal Lynda Reid commends her students for setting themselves big goals and says she takes great pleasure from seeing their dreams realised.

“Our girls constantly challenge themselves and we support this work ethic in all of our teaching. Our staff go the extra mile to ensure students reach their best, whether it be extra tutorials, exploring advanced subject material or study coaching. These exceptional university offers and scholarships are the result of great collaboration between staff and students at St Cuthbert’s. ”

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 119

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The Art of Telling Tales Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

The Moth is a Big Apple-based non-profit organisation that travels the globe telling true life tales. It has been described by the Guardian and Wall Street Journal as “brilliant and quietly addictive” and “New York’s hottest and hippest literary ticket.”

It was launched in 1997 by novelist George Dawes Green and has since spawned its own radio station and podcast service.

Scribes and celebrities to have taken to the stage include Salman Rushdie, Gabriel Bryne and the late Christopher Hitchens. “Hitchens was amazing, because whenever he told a Moth story he was drunk,” Green tells the Irish Times. “You thought often he wouldn’t be able to get through the story, but he had such a powerful mind. He could take these little threads that he left loose and then suddenly pull them all taut at the end of the story, right as he was approaching the time limit. He was kind of a magician.”

Before painting on cave walls and before writing, stories had to be told from memory (and without the benefits of booze). It’s impossible to know for certain what the first fable was, though in all likelihood it was probably an excuse coming home without a kill.

Later, stories would have been shared – and no doubt embellished – between family members, friends, then tribes and villages, eventually evolving into a form of entertainment. The oldest known literary work, The Epic of Gilgamesh, was composed on 12 clay tablets in Babylon over 3,000 years ago. It contains enough sex and violence to make Hollywood blush. Many of the themes of war and the divine would later re-appear in the Old Testament and Greek and Roman legends.

In China, the art of storytelling is known as pingshu. Since the mid-Qing dynasty, this highly-respected tradition has served as a tool to entertain and share information about the nation’s history.

To become a pingshu artist, one must serve as an apprentice for many years. “Listening to pingshu has allowed me, along with generations of Chinese, to appreciate the art of oral stories,” writes

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 122

Yvonne Yan in the Huffington Post. “My introduction to pingshu was Yuan Kuocheng’s Journey to the West, which depicts the arduous journey of a small group travelling to see Buddha in order to gain enlightenment.”

Traditional artists will perform in teahouses and small theatres.

Their art is considered to be as important as calligraphy and they must learn long passages that can be hundreds of thousands of words long. “From years of experience listening to pingshu, I have gradually come to form my own insights about the art,” continues Yan. “What is more important than narrating a story, ‘shu’, in my opinion, is ‘ping’, which means the process of appreciating and commenting.”

In a separate Huffington Post piece Heidi Pitlor shares her thoughts on what makes a great yarn. Pitlor reads in the region of 4,000 tales each year in her role as series editor for Best American Short Stories.

“Each sentence matters,” she says. “Pacing matters. Unless again this is a story about paralysis or inaction of some other kind. But if so, I’d hope for the writing to emanate energy of another sort – maybe by means of crisp or funny or colourful language.” Wit scores points with Pitlor. She wants humour. Intelligent humour. “I have been lucky to work alongside a wide variety of our countries best writers,” she continues. “Each taught me a great deal … a good story tells you something interesting about someone. Things happen in a good story. People reveal who they are. This is done with ease of language and some amount of voice.”

Adam Gopnik, who also contributes at The Moth, describes tales as “the currency of life” in a New Yorker article entitled Can Science Explain Why We Tell Stories? People, he says, are naturally drawn to ones with morals – hence the success of religion – but a good moral does not guarantee a good story. Quite the contrary. “Good stories are strange,” writes Gopnik. “Good stories are startling. It is the shock good stories offer to our expectations, not some sop they offer to our pieties, that makes tales tally.” Thrills, he says, are what truly stir our souls: “The story that tells us only that we like all kinds of stories lacks that excitement, that exclusionary power, which is the only thing that makes us want to hear stories at all.”

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 123

MERCY HOSPICE

CELEBRATES 20 YEARS FOR TREES OF REMEMBRANCE The Trees of Remembrance are a much loved tradition for Hospice and for the community and Mercy Hospice is excited to be celebrating this year, 20 years of the Trees of Remembrance .

Each year, two weeks before Christmas, a very special Christmas tree arrives at Royal Oak Mall, Eastridge Shopping Centre, Westfield 277, the Mercy Hospice foyer, Hospice shops and online at www.mercyhospice.org.nz from 08 - 24 December.

New for 2014 will be the addition of a Tree of Remembrance in the Farmers stores at Westfield St Lukes and 277 Broadway, Newmarket from 24 November – 24 December.

These trees, as beautiful as any other Christmas tree, hold a special place in many Aucklanders’ hearts.

The Trees of Remembrance provide an opportunity to honour and remember those who will not be with you this Christmas. You can make a donation and write your very own handwritten Christmas message on the decoration provided and hang it on the tree.

Lesley Dawson, the founder of the Trees of Remeembrance and Mercy Hospice pioneer fundraiser recalls how this concept came about.

“One evening 26 years ago I was watching Days of Our Lives, and saw Alice Horton, one of the characters, hang a Christmas bauble on the tree in honour of her son Bill who had died. A light bulb suddenly went off in my head and I knew this would be fantastic to offer people a way of remembering their loved ones and to raise funds for Hospice. With support from Judy Macready, CEO at that time I put together the very first Trees of Remembrance Campaign in New Zealand, where people could write a message on a bauble for a loved one who would not be with them at Christmas and hang it on a very special tree.”

Fast forward 20 years and Hospices throughout the country now run Trees of Remembrance campaigns raising funds for their local Hospice. This year also sees the additional support from Farmers nationwide.

Farmers for over 100 years has been an integral part of New Zealand’s communities. Hospice are now thrilled that Farmers are commited to building a long term supporting relationship with hospices throughout the country – with a focus on raising awareness and funds.

The over-arching relationship will be referred to as ‘Caring Connections in our Community’. The name is very fitting because it reflects the community based nature of hospice services and the sense of connection that Farmers has in each community.

This relationship will see 27 hospices throughout the country benefit in a range of ways starting with the Trees of Remembrance Campaign. The activity will grow each year and so too the opportunity to raise funds and awareness of hospice services in the local community.

Many volunteers generously donate their time to help look after the trees and collect donations for Mercy Hospice Auckland. The money raised from this event helps Mercy Hospice to continue to provide all Hospice services at no cost to patients and their families regardless of age, ethnicity, means or religion, all of which can only continue through the communities’ generous and continued support.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 124

Mercy Hospice Shops

Scratching your head for Secret Santa ideas or the relative who gets harder to buy for each year?

Then skip shopping mall madness and pop into a Mercy Hospice Shop where you’ll find a treasure trove of unique quality recycled and end of line clothing and home-ware.

And if you happen to receive a gift this year that’s not quite you then please consider re-gifting to Mercy Hospice Auckland. Whether you purchase a gift from us or donate it, you’re directly helping to fund the free palliative care Mercy Hospice Auckland provides for people facing life-limiting illnesses living in the Auckland Central area.

Christmas & New Year: A time to Recycle, Reuse, Reduce MERCY HOSPICE SHOPS Mon-Sat, 10am-4pm Onehunga Hospice Shop 183 Onehunga Mall (cnr Onehunga Mall & Church St)

Mt Eden Hospice Shop 453 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden Village Ph 630 7110

Royal Oak Hospice Shop 728 Manukau Rd (opp Pak’N Save car park), Royal Oak, Ph 625 9300

Ponsonby Hospice Shop 300 Ponsonby Rd (Herne Bay end) Ph 376 5301

Ellerslie Hospice Furniture Shop 188 Ladies Mile, Ellerslie Town Centre, Ph 579 1208 (Ext 5)

Pt Chev Arcade Hospice Shop Pt Chev Arcade, Pt Chevalier Ph 849 2258

Ellerslie Hospice Shop 188 Ladies Mile, Ellerslie Town Centre, Ph 579 1208

Blockhouse Bay Hospice Shop 560 Blockhouse Bay Road (near roundabout), Ph 627 0128

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28/11/14 8:46 AM

HEADLAND SCULPTURE ON THE GULF RETURNS TO WAIHEKE SHORES

Headland Sculpture on the Gulf returns this January with 31 new sculptures dotted along Waiheke Island’s spectacular two-kilometre coastal walkway on the Matiatia headland.

The event runs from 23 January to 15 February 2015, and features incredible sculptures created especially for Headland Sculpture on the Gulf. It’s an enjoyable walk and you can always take a break in the headland pavilion at Matiatia Bay, showcasing the best of Waiheke Island produce.

Local chefs Nico Fini and Ana Schwarz are developing an urbane ‘taste of Waiheke’ menu, accompanied by a selection of local wines, Waiheke Brewery beer and Batch Winery sparkling wine.

The 2015 exhibition showcases many different styles of work in a wide variety of media, enabling the audience to experience and interact with different forms of sculpture in new and exciting ways. The individual artist works are set against the backdrop of the natural elements of the unique headland location to deliver new directions in outdoor sculpture and demonstrate innovative responses to the immediate environment.

This year’s event showcases sculptures from a diverse group of artists, many of whom are new to the exhibition, including Suji Park, Seung Yul Oh and Finnish duo Elin & Keino. Established artists David McCracken, Jeff Thomson and Virginia King also return to Waiheke in 2015.

More than 45,000 people attended the biennial event in 2013, with similar numbers expected next year. Headland Sculpture on the Gulf exhibition is free to the public.

What: Headland Sculpture on the Gulf Where: Matiatia headland, Waiheke Island When: 23 January to 15 February 2015 Getting there: Fullers (www.fullers.co.nz); Sealink (www.sealink.co.nz/waiheke)

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BEN HURLEY AND JEREMY CORBETT WAX LYRICAL ON LAUGHTER, LADYSHAPE’S AND A LITTLE SHOW CALLED 7 DAYS Words: Angus St Clair Brown

The unflappable stars of 7 days are roaming the country this month on their live tour so I decided to check in with the shows’ hairiest writer and its hilarious host to ask them, what’s the story?

BEN HURLEY AB: You sound like you just woke up, are you still in bed?

BH: Oh hell no man! I got kids, I’ve been up since daybreak.

Everyone assumes comedians get up at (beep) 11:00! Certainly not normally.

AB: You were head boy of Hawera high school and wanted to be a lawyer, yeah?

BH: Growing up in a small town like that, the option to be a comedian, it’s just not one. But unfortunately law on television and movies is not really real, so I’m quite glad I dodged that bullet.

AB: How do you stay so well informed for 7 Days?

BH: It’s made my life a lot easier because on 7 days we don’t really talk about the stories that are incredibly depressing… [in] the era of the internet news you can choose what you don’t look at. So I can quite happily look through the news now and just stick to politics and fluff.

AB: And the live tour?

BH: The thing about 7 days is it’s all made up and it changes not only year by year but show by show. So we can literally go to the same places that we’ve been the year before and it will be a one hundred percent new show.

AB: How much of it’s scripted and how much is improv?

BH: The only scripted bits are Corbett’s jokes and everything else is made up. It’s heavily edited of course.

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AB: Jon Bridges is a friend of mine…He’s obviously doing a great job as the producer?

BH: Yeah I see Jon three days a week and I think the team behind the scenes of 7 days is really strong as is the team on screen. Yeah Jon’s a very, he’s so reasonable it’s almost irritating!

AB: Tell me about working with Jeremy and Paul…

BH: Jeremy and Paul are very close friends and they’re kind of the elder statesmen of the comedy industry, if you like. His (Jeremy’s) nickname at school was ‘ladyshape’ (laughs). He was a swimmer so he’s still got quite an impressive upper body, if I can say that as a staunch heterosexual man.

AB: Is there anything you wanted to throw in there before we wrap it up?

BH: No, (laughs). I’m not sure how you turn that into a piece about a comedian but ah…

AB: Heavy editing I suppose. I’ll use the 7 days model!

BH: Yeah (laughs) that’s probably for the best.

JEREMY CORBETT AB: You’re from Westport originally eh?

JC: Born in Westport, to be honest, but was probably only there for a matter of months I’d imagine. But that doesn’t stop it coming in very handy.

AB: You might want to have a right of reply at this point to some of Ben’s comments.

JC: I’ll bet I do!

AB: He said you had an unusual nickname stemming from your swimming days.

JC: (laughing). He’s got a mind like a steel trap that man.

“

It’s just great you know, I mean I say to people that talking sh*t with your mates and they point a camera at it, it’s pretty much the dream job isn’t it?

AB: Well, ‘Ladyshape’ does tend to stick in the memory banks a bit.

JC: That’s right. When I was a younger man…apparently I’ve got child-bearing hips. One of my cruel swimming mates called me Ladyshape.

AB: What’s it like working with Ben, Paul, Dai and all those guys?

JC: It’s just great you know, I mean I say to people that talking sh*t with your mates and they point a camera at it, it’s pretty much the dream job isn’t it?

AB: Ben said that you had a very impressive upper body, still.

JC: (laughs). I don’t know how to answer that. YES.

AB: It is.

JC: I can’t say a bad word about any of them and I’m very fortunate to be working with such a great bunch, and I think,…I was gonna say there’s mutual respect there, but from what Ben said, obviously not!

AB: Apparently you’re the ‘master of the power nap’, is that true?

J: I think the nap is a vastly underrated pastime. The ‘Corbett gift’ is the ability to sleep anytime, anywhere. As you get older though I would suspect, going by my dad’s performance, that you lose control over when that happens.

AB: I was saying to Ben that being a comedian seems like a license to get away with quite a lot.

JC: Oh absolutely. Though there is sometimes a downside when you want to make a serious point and they think you’re joking!

AB: (Laughing). Does that happen often?

JC: When I said to my ex-girlfriend, I’m leaving you and she’s like “oh haha, good one”.

AB: (playing along) “No, no really, I’m leaving.”

JC: That’s right. It took me about a year!

AB: I saw that you wrote a book on parenting. Tell me about that.

JC: It’s kind of a collection of basically a thousand word kind of chapters and it’s one that you can dip in and out of depending on what advice you need from me, which, should never be anything.

AB: Any advice for young performers starting out?

JC: My response to that is to give up. Yeah, give up. You’re never gonna do it. We don’t need any more comedians!

AB: The 7 days live tour, do you want to talk about that?

JC: Yeah man, I lobbied hard for us to go to Palmerston North and I’m gonna end up with egg on my face unless people get out there and buy some bloody tickets — don’t make me look like a dick!

AB: Any final words from you? This might be your best opportunity for a retort to Ben’s nasty comments!

JC: Yeah, Hurley, for a young ‘up and comer’ he’s doing alright!

I’d like to see him stop hiding behind his facial hair. He’s still a young’un. I’m an oldie, so who knows how long I’m gonna be around. This might be your last chance to see me. So get in while you can would be my advice!

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 127

THE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS

MERCY HOSPICE

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVE POWER

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH A DAME

Have you been longing to engage with your creative self but don’t know where to start?

Creativity is not only reserved for ‘artists’. We all have the capability of unfolding creatively: a mother distracting a child from crying, an employee solving a problem for a customer over the phone, even an accountant finding the right way to talk to his or her customer.

Following the success of his inaugural Christmas concert last year, Tim Beveridge is thrilled to announce Dame Malvina Major and Simon O’Neill will join him in for a Christmas concert to remember.

But sometimes, creativity may not be a simple show on demand. It is not a matter of making inspirations and ideas come from somewhere else, but of unblocking the obstacles to its natural flow.

These are the four major steps to boost your creativity.

1. Realise how you lose connection to your creativity.

It is important to acknowledge that in adulthood, responsibility, fear, circumstances and all that encompasses our history are factors that can and will eventually petrify our mindset.

2. Reconnect to the basic principles of creativity.

These are the foundations of creativity and they are not rocket science: engaged play, curiosity and imagination. All of which are perfectly learnable.

3. Believe in the big picture.

We are just at one point of our journey. We are not exclusively who we are in this moment, we are a compendium of abilities we have acquired.

The capability of believing in the value of this is to see the big picture, putting it all to work effectively will eventually define our unique artistry.

4. Leap from belief to action.

Constant practice helps us create new pathways and dust off old ones.

Test-driving our ideas in small steps, with no judgment, fear of failure or disproportionate expectations is the solid start to reviving our own creativity.

Jennifer Zea is the founder of The Creative Workshops.

Programmes designed to unlock and amplify your creative vision.

Dream. Dare. Grow

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Visit www.thecreativeworkshops.co.nz or call 09 528 3474 to find out more.

With a voice that has been described as ‘effortless’ and ‘dazzling,’ Tim will again present an evening, which captures the spirit of Christmas with an intimate, heartwarming and entertaining concert.

Dame Malvina Major is one of New Zealand’s most cherished musical icons and Simon O’Neill is arguably one of the finest helden-tenors currently on the international stage.

The event promises to provide a magical evening of music, fun and laughter with proceeds raised going to Mercy Hospice Mercy Hospice Auckland and dove house Eastern Bays Hospice, to help provide care and support long after the festive season is over.

“Hospice is a very special organisation and I’m thrilled to be supporting the wonderful work they do in the community. I’ve recently had a family member looked after by dove house and I have nothing but praise for their wonderful service and care,” says Tim. Dame Malvina Major also has the most heartfelt respect for Mercy Hospice in particular for the incredible care given to her music teacher and friend, Dame Sister Mary Leo. “Christmas for some can be a lonely time. As I grow older I’ve realised how important music is to people - it brings emotions alive, provides hope and a reason to live. Music makes people happy and I’m thrilled to join Tim and Simon to provide a magical evening of entertaining fun.”

An irresistible evening of music ­the perfect way to sprinkle some Christmas cheer and get you into the spirit for the festive season.

Date: Tuesday 16 December Venue: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell Time: 7.30pm Beverages will be available to purchase in foyer from 6.30pm.

Our thanks to EuroVintage for donating the wine for the evening.

Don’t miss out! Purchase your tickets at iticket.co.nz today.

To continue enjoying the Christmas spirit long after the concert, Tim has also produced a Christmas CD with 11 beautifully recorded Christmas tracks backed by some of New Zealand’s finest musicians. CD’s will be available to purchase for $15 on the night of the concert, at Hospice shops and at Farmers stores nationwide. $10 from every CD sale will go to support Hospice.

apo.co.nz

Q&A WITH TEDDYTAHU RHODES

Celebrate Christmas

New Zealand baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes has established an international career, singing with some of the world’s finest opera houses and orchestras, including the Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Born and raised in Christchurch, Teddy was later accepted to study at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music in London in 1991. He has established a reputation for taking on new works, including a landmark performance as Joe in Dead Man Walking, alongside other well-known title roles including Don Giovanni and The King and I. Now based in Sydney, Teddy continues to be a regular guest with all the major orchestras in Australasia, and returns home to New Zealand to perform with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra in Celebrate Christmas, the APO’s annual Christmas concert at Parnell’s Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Verve: Your job is so different from most people’s occupations, what are the best things about it?

Teddy: Doing something that has been a passion of mine since childhood really is a privilege. I grew up in Christchurch and was a chorister throughout my schooling life at Medbury School and Christ’s College, but back then I never thought this would become a job. It’s an honour to be able to bring wonderful music into people’s lives.

V: But there must be some challenges as well. What are those?

T: In my job I’m essentially a selfcontractor. You’re never quite sure if the next job is going to appear, so you have to make sure the last performance you do is the best you do. There’s also the travelling; you lead a very solitary life having to travel for work frequently and stay in hotels. But I would say that the challenges I face in my job are not really challenges — overall it’s a great job and I’m very lucky to do what I do.

V: You’ve sung all over the world, what‘s been your favourite venue?

T: I’m fortunate to have sung in amazing venues throughout the world, and some memorable places that aren’t strictly ‘venues’ too; I’ve sung in a forest, on the water in the Sydney Harbour and in the wine valleys, but think the first time I stood on the stage of the Sydney Opera House was very special.

V: You’ve performed so many different roles and sung in a huge variety of concerts. What is the most interesting you’ve had to do?

T: Performing the role of Joe in Dead Man Walking really was a breakthrough for me. It’s an opera that has such a profound effect on anyone who sees it; it crossed boundaries of the book and movie, and took me outside of the very singular opera form and into something new.

V: Are there things you particularly enjoy about singing back in New Zealand?

T: New Zealand is still my favourite country to perform in — there’s something quite intimidating and yet exciting about coming home, and you put a lot of pressure on yourself to do a great job for your home crowd. New Zealand has this different smell, it’s the first thing I notice when I return; I feel like I am inhaling my culture again. It’s also a great opportunity to catch up with my friends. For this concert with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, I’m really looking forward to singing Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols — I absolutely love that piece.

7.30pm, Fri 12 December 3pm, Sat 13 December Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell Conductor Ben Northey Bass Teddy Tahu Rhodes The Graduate Choir NZ Director Terence Maskell An enchanting performance of favourite Christmas music with opera singer Teddy Tahu Rhodes performing Vaughan Williams’s haunting Fantasia on Christmas Carols.

Share the magic of Christmas with friends, family and the APO.

Book at apo.co.nz or call 09 623 1052

GORGEOUS GIFTS FOR

BOOKLOVERS

PLENTY MORE YOTAM OTTOLENGHI $70 If you love entertaining or are a fan of good food, or just somebody who loves to read about food recipes, and the reason diverse cultures have similar recipes then this is the book to add to your wishlist. Ottolenghi is THE name in brilliant food and the way he explains the recipes and helps you through the making process is like having the man himself in your kitchen. This is a book for all the family to enjoy, especially when someone else has done the cooking.

Great for cookery beginners or ambitious home chefs. This is a book that will be on everyone’s want list.

THE AKAROA COOKING SCHOOL LOU AND ANT BENTLEY $50 A change of life style and returning back to New Zealand from corporate life in London gave Lou and Ant Bentley the opportunity to start their own cooking school in Akaroa. The philosophy behind their endeavour is to help people grow their own food, eat in season and use the produce that is available locally, which means you get a real taste of good New Zealand food, well prepared with lots of tips and advice on preparation and presentation. This book would make a wonderful gift for the budding foodie or a perfect Christmas gift for a young married couple who need excellent books like this on their new kitchen bookshelves.

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CHRISTMAS AT HOME SANDRA KAMININSKI $60 Stylish, beautiful and a book the entertainer or homemaker will go back to time and time again for fresh inspiration. Christmas at Home will inspire you to revamp your everyday table into something special for the holiday season. A feast for the senses for your family, friends and guests and they will appreciate the efforts that go towards making any meal a special occasion. Entertaining well has never only been about the food and wine, and the advice in Christmas at Home will help you add that magical touch that makes a simple gathering into an unforgettable event. Sandra Kaminski has created a book you may have to buy yourself, but you could leave this copy of Verve around on the coffee table open on this page with Christmas at Home brightly highlighted as a hint to loved ones.

THE DRESS 100 IDEAS THAT CHANGED FASHION FOREVER MARNIE FOGG $65 Whether you are a dedicated follower of fashion or a passive viewer from the sidelines of the new seasons shows, but interested in what we wear, you will love this book. From bandage dresses, punks and pins to the simple knit dress, Marnie Fogg shows you how an outrageous idea soon gathers street cred and becomes everyday wear. So if your closet is walk in and you use a stylist or you ferret around the vintage rails in your pre-loved store, this book shows you why we wear the things we do and why you should hang on to some of those heritage pieces that you keep at the back of your wardrobe.

Cometh the hour, cometh the glam frock.

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Words: Doris Mousdale Arcadia Bookshop 26 Osborne Street, Newmarket 09 522 5211 www.arcadiabookshop.co.nz

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COMING UP

AT THE MOVIES WHAT WE DID ON OUR HOLIDAY DECEMBER 4 Doug and Abi are taking their three children on a trip to Scotland for a big family gathering. They are in the midst of a difficult divorce, and have asked the kids to keep it a secret from their extended family. But as the inevitable feuds kick in, a completely unexpected turn of events involving the children causes further tensions to rise to the surface. And with the repercussions that ensue — hilarious and emotional in equal measure — the family are forced to put aside their differences and work together or else risk losing what they hold most dear.

YOU’RE NOT YOU DECEMBER 4 You’re Not You tells the story of Kate, an accomplished woman in her 30s whose perfectly-ordered life is suddenly upended when she is diagnosed with the devastating and incurable disease ALS. Kate and her husband Evan must find a full-time caregiver to help, and so they meet college student Bec, who has impulsively answered their ad despite her complete lack of experience. Bec is chaos in motion, but Kate sees something special in Bec and hires her. Gradually, Kate inspires Bec not to throw her life away, while Bec helps Kate to find her voice and finally live her life to the fullest.

FOLIES BERGÈRE DECEMBER 18 Long married 50-somethings Brigitte and Xavier are prize cattle breeders in regional France. Life is good, but the departure of their children from home has thrown Brigitte’s world into flux, as she finds herself locked into routine. She keeps hoping for something else, something more. Brigitte impulsively sets off for Paris under the guise of a doctor’s appointment. The city immediately invigorates her, and when she meets a charming Danish gentleman (Michael Nyqvist, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo), she impulsively allows herself to be flattered by his attention. Folies Bergère is a deliciously appealing fable about the choices of everyday life, and a reminder that it’s never too late to change.

MR TURNER DECEMBER 26 Mr Turner explores the last quarter century of the great if eccentric British painter J.M.W. Turner (1775-1851). Profoundly affected by the death of his father, loved by a housekeeper he takes for granted and occasionally exploits sexually, he forms a close relationship with a seaside landlady with whom he eventually lives incognito in Chelsea, where he dies. Throughout this, he travels, paints, stays with the country aristocracy, visits brothels, is a popular if anarchic member of the Royal Academy of Arts, has himself strapped to the mast of a ship so that he can paint a snowstorm, and is both celebrated and reviled by the public and by royalty.

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6 QUESTIONS WITH

DIRECTOR MARC FITOUSSI: FOLIES BERGÉRE

AND

If you haven’t already, then add the movie Folies Bergère, to your summer viewing list. Isabelle Huppert (Copacabana) teams up once again with award winning French screenwriter and director, Marc Fitoussi, who puts his considerable talent and insight into the human condition to work, on this beautifully crafted film. The result — a light-hearted melodrama that looks at the issues many of us face sooner or later: empty nest syndrome, that delayed mid-life crisis, and so much more. Verve chatted to Marc Fitoussi about Folies Bergère just prior to this issue going to print.

Verve: Is the movie based on a book from which you extracted the screenplay or did you come up with the story?

Fitoussi: It is an original screenplay based on an idea I had when visiting parents of a friend who are farmers in Boulogne. Everything about the farm and my friend’s parents was not like I had imagined it to be: I was surprised to find that they were not retro, but extremely modern and interesting people. Their farm ran like a well-oiled business, using up to date technology as one would expect to see in a city environment. I had wanted to tell the story about an older couple and the things that can happen after many years of living together: this farm experience provided the catalyst.

V: The movie I saw was called Folies Bergère; it is also referred to as Paris Folies. Why the two titles?

F: In France we were not allowed to use Folies Bergère because of the Parisian institution with the same name. That was a little disappointing, because I prefer this name. Like the story, it is a bit of an oxymoron, and brings city and country (opposing opposites) together. Brigitte, in the film, went to agricultural college when she was younger, as she had wanted to be a shepherdess (bergère).

Overcome with restlessness, she takes action and goes to live for two days in a city not well-known to her, just two hours away from where their farm is situated: hence the word ‘folly’ — meaning a little bit of madness.

V: Brigitte was attracted to Stan and flattered by his attention.

But it was not really a Stan or someone like Stan that she was looking for. She seemed to have a void in her life she was trying to fill. Your comments?

F: She does not know what she is looking for… she just wants change, and is urged to find it. It could have been a story of her having an affair with a younger guy, but it isn’t. I like that the movie is able to surprise the audience, time and again.

V: Can you comment on the significance of Apu, the immigrant from India?

F: I did not wish to show the typical idealistic view of Paris that everyone knows. I wanted to portray it as a very real city, with lots of things going on, good and bad. The scene with Apu portrays another side of life in Paris.

V: The final scene is warm and loving. Do you think Brigitte and Xavier live happily ever after?

F: I like this ending because for some it is optimistic (healing etc.), while others find it melancholic, and the Dead Sea itself quite depressing. So the audience is left wondering, just as in real life.

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TANTRASTIC Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

There is some dispute as to whether or not superstar songsmith Sting claimed to have seven hour sessions of tantric sex back in 1990, but, nearly a quarter of a century later, he still gets asked about it. Last October he was quizzed once more in an interview for the Bravo series Inside the Actor’s Studio. “If we had seven hours, I would demonstrate,” he joked. “Maybe not, but there is some truth to it. The idea of tantric sex is a spiritual act. I don’t know any other purer and better way of expressing a love for another individual than sharing that wonderful, I call it, ‘sacrament’. I would stand by it. Not seven hours, but the idea. Seven hours includes movie and dinner!” In what is perhaps a trivialisation of Tantra, Sting and marathon bedroom sessions are probably what come to most people’s minds at its mention. But there’s a whole lot more to Tantra, one of Earth’s most ancient and sacred of traditions.

“Tantric loving is not simply a sexual technique, but rather a commitment to live a more conscious life in every respect,” writes Nitya Lacroix in Tantric Sex: The Tantric Art of Sensual Loving. “It has a spiritual dimension, even though it does not require a specific belief or religious viewpoint. It perceives a sexual relationship to be not only the physical union of two people, but a re-enactment of the divine principle of union that governs the whole of Existence.”

What makes Tantra appealing to many is that it embraces both material and spiritual desires, meaning followers are not forced into feelings of hypocrisy due to their human pursuit of pleasure.

The sexual aspect of tantra was originally a relatively minor aspect of the tradition, with greater emphasis placed on it by more recent, especially western, interpretations. According to writer Hugh Urban, misinterpretations stem from this modern “pop” or “California Tantra” leading to the confusion of “Tantric

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bliss” with “ordinary orgasmic pleasure”. Tantra, he says, has become regarded as a “cult of ecstasy”.

If you do yoga, chances are you’re unwittingly indulging in a little bit of Tantra as hatha yoga, one of the world’s most popular techniques, evolved from it. Yoga stems from the idea of yoking something together, in this case, body and mind.

Tantra originated in India around 5000 years ago. The word is a combination of ‘tattva’ and ‘mantra’, which refer to the sciences of cosmic principles, sounds and vibrations. The sharing of knowledge, too, is an important aspect.

“True disciples would spend years under the guidance of a teacher to initiate them into the progressive series of esoteric practices, known as ‘Kundalini-yoga’,” says Lacroix. “These practices include advanced yogic postures and breathing techniques, mediation, chanting and sexual yoga for the purpose of attaining a state of spiritual enlightenment or cosmic consciousness.” At the heart of tantric teaching, she continues, is the search for harmony and union, the balance of male and female forces, and once that balance is reached, then bliss is achieved: “A tantric relationship is one that enjoys a deep emotional and sexual intimacy and is built on a strong foundation of honest and sincere communication.”

Aspects of Tantra have influenced a slew of religions and philosophies including Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. The myriad interpretations means Tantra is difficult to define by one set of doctrines or beliefs. “A person who, irrespective of caste, creed or religion, aspires for spiritual expansion or does something concrete, is a Tantric,” says Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, an esteemed Indian philosopher, in Tantra and its Effects on Society. “Tantra in itself is neither a religion nor an ‘ism’. Tantra is a fundamental spiritual science.”

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LONG DISTANCE GRANDPARENTING Words: Katy Powell

With approximately 600 million users registered to Skype and a third of them logging in every month to speak and video call their friends, family and co-workers, we are fully immersed in the digital age.

According to Insights and Spending Habits of Modern Grandparents published in 2012, 26% of United States grandparents use electronic forms of communication such as email, text or Skype to talk to their grandchildren.

So how does this differ from 25 years ago, when the relationship you may have had with your grandparents was based around physical interaction — giving you cuddles, baking you cookies and letting you do all the things your parents said no to?

A time before Skype? Yes that did exist!

Growing up in England, I enjoyed a close relationship with my grandparents, both emotionally and physically, as they all lived within five minutes of my childhood home. Just the thought sparks precious memories, like how I was taught to play the piano by my grandmother or the insightful stories about life when they were growing up. As a child, you often overlook these moments and don’t recognise the impact your grandparents can have, and how they help shape you into the person you become.

Modern grandparenting can sometimes present a different challenge. Travel is now so accessible to us that families often find themselves separated by thousands of miles. Potentially leading to grandchildren only ever interacting with their grand parents via a screen.

Speaking from someone who now lives on the other side of the world from her entire family, Skyping and maintaining those relationships can be difficult, however heart warmingly amazing it may be that we can maintain long distant relationships in this way. Every conversation is a moment to cherish and if you’re lucky enough to find wifi on a beach or on top of a mountain, sharing this experience with loved ones makes those moments even more special.

However, you cant expect it to always be that easy.

Laraine Dower from Auckland has her only grandson, Miko, aged three, living in Helsinki, Finland with his Kiwi parents. She highlights some challenges that being a ‘Skype grammie’ can present and quirky ways around these to make the most of the relationship available. “At his age it is very hard to keep him in

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front of the screen....when I am physically with him we both have a lovely rapport and can easily exchange talk and play, but on Skype you cannot anticipate as much. He definitely doesn’t like to sit and talk too much about his every day life and what he is doing, so I focus on getting that sort of info via emails from his parents.”

Indeed, challenges can and will occur, such as the time difference between countries, the age and mood the child is in that day, bed times and most importantly for the parent, putting the time aside to fit this all into a busy working week. This is all before you’ve even checked your wifi connection. Without a strong wifi connection you will spend your allotted time shouting, swearing and potentially throwing your laptop out of the nearest window... this is not advised!

So, to work around these challenges Laraine and her family have found new ways to practice age old traditions. “I am learning to do more interaction with him, such as playing hide and seek, and with the help of my son, how to turn my camera around so he can focus on a book, allowing me to read stories, as he doesn’t need to see me for that. Sometimes I will perform a puppet show with some of his toys left here at our place. Also, he loves dinosaurs, so I am going to try a game where my dinosaur toys talk to the dinosaur toys he has in Finland to create a story.”

As a ‘Skype grammie’, once you think outside the box and get creative with engaging ideas for your little ones you can begin a successful journey together on Skype, and whether it’s been days, weeks or even months, the reward of connecting and communicating with your loved ones is priceless...quiet literally, as Skype is free.

However you communicate with your grandparents, the most important thing is to have that relationship, maintain it and treasure it, as for most of us, the opportunity we have to do this is far too short.

The way we communicate has evolved with modern technologies, allowing us to both explore the world and keep those family bonds close. This time of year is especially poignant for families, no matter how many miles separate you. By communicating online or via Skype, you’re enabling those family traditions to continue and creating new memories for everyone. Who knows, this ‘new communication’ may too one day become a tradition of the festive season.

Do not be afraid of this challenge, be grateful and embrace it, you will enjoy every second!

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INTERVIEW WITH SARAH CRUICKSHANK Verve: Being the only qualified veterinary physiotherapist in New Zealand must make you a very busy woman! Can you give us an idea of what a veterinary physio does?

Sarah: I’m the only New Zealander currently qualified as a veterinary physiotherapist. Essentially, everything that a ‘human’ physio does, we do for animals. We do a thorough assessment and identify areas of pain or dysfunction that are affecting the animals mobility or performance and use physiotherapy techniques and treatments to restore pain free movement and function. Obviously the assessment process is a little more challenging with species that cannot tell you where it hurts!

However, non-verbal communication is still a powerful tool.

V: When you were growing up, was working with animals always part of your plan?

S: Yes, always. I grew up in Remuera, but was desperate to live in the country surrounded by animals! I had a ‘vet clinic’ under our house in the basement where I would have a camping lantern and my soft toy animals were coerced into becoming my ‘patients’ and I used to saddle up a tree branch and pretend that was my horse. My poor parents finally relented and bought me my first pony at 12 when they realised I wasn’t going to grow out of my horse obsession! When I was 13 years old I met an English equine sports therapist who sorted out my horses sore back (after the vet was unable to help), my horse loved what she did (instead of running a mile when he saw the vet in his overalls!) and I decided then and there that I wanted to be an animal physiotherapist.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 138

V: Being a distinguished veterinary figure both nationally and internationally, is travel a significant part of your job?

S: Yes it is. Mostly a lot of travel in my trusty Landrover — out on the road 4-5 days a week (I’m clinic based one day a week), travelling around rural Auckland, Waikato and Rodney visiting equine clients and sporadically further afield. I have had the opportunity to travel extensively with my job as well. I travelled around the United Kingdom to international horse trials, such as Blenheim Palace, Badminton and Burghley, the London 2012 Olympics and Beijing 2008 Olympics (the equestrian was in Hong Kong). Conferences have taken me to the United Kingdom, Australia, France and South Africa and I collected all of the data for my masters thesis in Dubai.

V: You wrote a prize-winning thesis on the musculoskeletal anatomy of the racing camel. What inspired that particular focus?

S: I was pretty determined to do my research thesis on back pain in horses, however one of my lecturers at the Royal Veterinary College mentioned there might be an opportunity to join a RVC research team to study racing camels in Dubai at the invitation of one of the Sheikhs there. I figured that opportunity wouldn’t present itself again so put my name down and was accepted!

V: What is it like treating the horse and the rider? Does it allow for more perceptive in treatment of both?

S: It is fantastic — the horse and rider are constantly interacting, each having an effect on the other, so we offer a very complete service being able to do treat both! Yes it does, and often we find the horse and rider will have developed a similar issue. The feedback we have from riders is hugely positive, they feel the difference in their horse and also feel the change in their riding and ability to use their body effectively to influence the horse.

V: Does your career still provide challenges and surprises?

S: Every single day!

V: What kind of advice would you give to someone thinking of following in your path?

S: Set your heart on it and go for it. It is a long and challenging road to grind through, with a minimum seven years of study, but it is absolutely worth it! I had so many moments of frustration with years of study still ahead of me and I wanted to jump to the end result, but you get through it by aiming for the long term goal and keeping that dream alive. When you are passionate about something, studying it is easy and so very interesting and to get up every morning and love your job is hugely rewarding. I wouldn’t want to do anything else and know that I am incredibly fortunate to have had the support of my family who helped me achieve my dreams and continue to support me to dream bigger. My dad inspired me when he said to me when I was 16 years old, “in the words of Henry Ford, if you think you can do a thing, and you think you can’t do a thing. You’re right.”

ANIMAL EMERGENCY

SUMMER HOLIDAY PREPARATIONS FOR YOU AND YOUR PET

I think all of us are ready for some sunny days and leave the days of rain and stormy winds behind us!

Sunbathing in the backyard will put your cat in a good mood and it’s much more pleasant to take the dog out for a stroll while wearing jandals than getting the gum boots out for a quick dash.

Many of us will be heading towards lovely beaches and holiday homes, leaving our regulated lives behind for a little bit. These surroundings can be unfamiliar for your pets, so it might be worthwhile to check out the security of any fencing. This is a time to relax and unwind with friends and nice barbeque sessions. Be aware of potential risks, like road traffic accidents, poisoning, bones and possibly injuries caused by other animals. It is helpful to know where the closest vet clinic is.

Some of you will prefer to leave your pets safely at home.

I’m sure your caregiver will appreciate it, if you write down your contact number, the contact details of your vet and a clear plan of how you expect them to act in case an emergency happens.

At the Animal Emergency Centre it is not uncommon for injured or sick pets to be brought in by a caregiver who is beside themselves with worry and having to make decisions for which they feel ill-equipped. It makes it so much easier when they are left with detailed instructions as to which veterinary clinic to use, and what treatments the owner is happy to fund. Some owners leave their credit card details, or their pet insurance documentation to make the caregiver’s job as easy as possible.

As a last suggestion, load the details of relevant daytime and emergency veterinary clinics into your phone today!

Have a great, stress free summer holiday!

Dr. Marieke Wijnen BVSc Animal Emergency Centre 97 Carrington Rd, Mt Albert 09 849 2121 www.animalemergency.co.nz NIGHTS • WEEKENDS • PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Open when your regular vet is not 97 CARRINGTON ROAD, MT ALBERT

TELEPHONE 849 2121

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 139

A Friend for Life Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

In 11th century England, the killing of a greyhound was punishable by death. They are the only breed to be named in the bible (Proverbs 30, verses 29-31) and have been the dog of choice for royals and nobility for centuries. Some ancient Egyptians worshipped these highly intelligent canines as gods, while others considered the birth of one as important as the birth of a son. They are possibly the oldest domesticated breed, with remains thought to be that of a greyhound found in Asia dated 9,000BC. They can run at speeds of 70 km/h, thanks, in part, to a stride technique which is more akin to that of a cheetah than a regular canine, while their incredible eyesight (good for nearly a kilometre) is backed by the ability to see behind without turning their heads.

“There are still people out there who haven’t met greyhounds and you need to meet them to find out just how incredible they are,” says Jacqui Eyley, director of Greyhounds As Pets (GAP).

“They’re not what people expect. Greyhounds couldn’t be more chilled out. They’re so placid, happy to curl up quietly in the corner. They’re a magnet to anything comfortable. They love cushions.”

GAP is a nationwide registered charity founded by Greyhound Racing New Zealand to find good homes for retired racing greyhounds. There is a rigorous screening process to ensure the right animal is placed with the right the family, with each dog undergoing a full health check and neutering. When homes cannot be found, where possible, the greyhounds will be placed into foster care.

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 140

“We were actually a failed foster family,” says Melissa Redshaw, who has had her greyhound, Bonnie, since 2010. “Within a couple of days I’d fallen in love with her and told hubby that we can’t let her go.” Bonnie had only raced a handful of times when placed for adoption: “luckily for us she wasn’t very good at it!

People are often surprised by how easy they are to look after.

They don’t moult much and they don’t smell, and they’re so loving and gentle. I just can’t rate them highly enough.”

One of the biggest misconceptions about owning the noble greyhound is that they require lots of space. Like any dog they must be exercised daily, but due to their inherent laziness are one of the breeds best suited to apartments. “I actually got my first greyhound whilst living on a canal boat in London,” says Jacqui. “I didn’t know anything about greyhounds at the time. I went to the pound and saw this dog with huge eyes and just fell in love with him. He would happily trot along next to the boat then curl up happily inside. I’ve been smitten with them ever since.”

“I walk Bonnie off her lead all the time – not on the streets of course – and she always stays near,” adds Melissa. “She certainly doesn’t always have to run. Over half of all greyhounds are successfully re-homed with cats and small dogs, and Bonnie has always been fine with them. She comes most places with us and we’re always stopped in the street. Because they look a bit unusual, they get a lot of attention. She’s another addition to the family.”

GAP, too, prides itself on family values. “We’re very much a community,” says Jacqui. “We organise monthly walks and everyone gets together for social events and promotions. A lot of people who adopt dogs then often get involved. It’s a great way of meeting people and making new friends.”

If you’re thinking of adding a furry a friend to the family this festive season then head on over to greyhoundsaspets.org.nz

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 141

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Myanmar Uncovered

grand Sule Shangri-La, where high ranking officials host swanky weddings at weekends.

Words: Caroline Clegg, World Journeys

River cruises run mainly between Mandalay and Bagan, with longer itineraries extending to fascinating landscapes further north, and others westward on the picturesque Chindwin River. Beautiful views out over Mandalay and surrounds can be enjoyed from the Sagaing Hills, and a must-see is the Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to multitudes of marble tablets telling the story of Buddha – the ‘world’s biggest book.’ Mandalay artisans are renowned for their gold-leaf beating, silk weaving and marble carving. At the end of the day, take in the sunset with the locals at the picturesque 200-year-old U Bein’s Bridge.

Rudyard Kipling’s oft quoted line that Myanmar is quite unlike any other land you know about, is as accurate today as when it was written. Myanmar has its own vibe, and is coming into its own after years of being largely off limits to tourists. Recently moving towards democracy, and with their beloved Aung San Suu Kyi now free and active in politics, now is the time to visit Myanmar.

Although tourism is hotting up, services and hotels are struggling to keep pace with demand. Therefore, a most comfortable and enjoyable way of exploring Myanmar is aboard a luxury river cruiser. The name of the Belmond-operated luxury river cruiser ‘Belmond Road to Mandalay’ clearly reflects the importance of the Ayeyarwady River as the country’s main transport route. Relax on the top deck and watch river life glide by, stopping to take excursions during the day, and retreating to comfortable cabins and delicious cuisine each night.

Most visitors fly into Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city and home to the absolutely dazzling Shwedagon Pagoda, a golden Buddhist temple that draws pilgrims from around the world. A walking tour of Yangon reveals crumbling colonial architecture to rival that of Havana, busy street markets, and traditional dress still being worn on a daily basis. Wonderful accommodation options in Yangon range from the boutique Belmond Governor’s Residence with its teak construction and beautiful pool; to the

Wherever you go in Myanmar, temples are never far away, and no more so than in magical Bagan, where over 2000 temples dot the landscape as far as the eye can see – another aweinspiring sunset and a significantly moving moment.

Other off-ship excursions may be to countryside villages, largely unchanged for centuries. Chickens cluck about your feet as you stroll the streets, with nothing more on sale for tourists than a cup of tea at the busy village tea-house. Here horse-drawn carts are a common mode of transport, and a smile at a stranger will always be genuinely returned.

It pays to keep an open mind in Myanmar. Do visit that next temple, as it will undoubtedly reveal something surprisingly different. Do realise that many still live in poverty, so try to buy your mementos from small local artisans. And do be prepared to fall in love with a country of great traditions, unfailingly friendly people, and (we hope) a bright future.

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 142

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 143

Life After Death: The Proof?

Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

A 1995 Gallup Poll recorded that eight million Americans claim to have had a near-death experience (NDE), with many interpreting it as proof of an afterlife. Exactly two decades prior, Raymond Moody’s Life after Life, a collection of ‘other side’ stories became an international bestseller, shifting over 13 million copies worldwide. Moody, a psychiatrist, visited a range of cultures across all continents, noting that many reported similar experiences of an all-encompassing feeling of love and compassion. Others told of floating above and looking back down toward their lifeless body. Others of drifting through a tunnel, drawn toward a golden light, an account which has been often repeated throughout the ages by those who believe they have experienced the other side.

Andrew Newberg, a neuroscientist and professor at America’s Thomas Jefferson University and Hospital has spent much of his career examining the brain scans of the ecstatic experiences of meditating nuns and monks. Earlier this year he told CNN that the visions of light and feelings of euphoria reported by so many NDE-ers may be down to two parts of the brain, which usually work in opposition, shutting down in tandem. One part, the sympathetic nervous system, is responsible for arousal and excitement, the other, the parasympathetic system, provides a calming effect. As one’s eyesight fades, the peripheral vision goes first and “that’s why you’d have a tunnel sensation”.

Historical literature is littered with implications of NDEs, but it was not until the advent of modern medicine – coupled with mankind’s greater questioning of faith – that any serious investigating into the phenomenon took place. Ancient Greek philosopher Plato wrote of a man revived on a funeral pyre in the Myth of Er and in the 1st century Plutarch tells of Thespesius of Soli’s miraculous rise from the dead. These tales would later be mirrored throughout religious scriptures and continued through to the Middle Ages and beyond. Towards the close of the 19th century, the British Society for Psychical Research was born to study such events. More recently, in 2004, Ninety Minutes in Heaven was published, an account of a Christian pastor who visited God following a car crash. Six years later, Heaven Is For Real told the tale of a child who found heaven in an operating theatre. Both were bestsellers. The actress Goldie Hawn is convinced that she too saw that light after a viscous car wreck, a voice eventually telling her it wasn’t quite time. Eben Alexander, an American neurosurgeon, fell into a meningitisinduced coma and later woke to pen Proof of Heaven, his tale of a journey to the other side. “This world of consciousness beyond the body is the true new frontier,” wrote Alexander in Newsweek in 2012, “not just of science but of humankind itself, and it is my profound hope that what happened to me will bring the world one step closer to accepting it.”

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 144

But common sense tells us it can’t be real. It’s nothing but our floundering brain gasping for sense in its final death throe. Our conscience’s one last hurrah, unable to accept that most awful of certainties (that, and taxes), our psyche concocts one last illusion of comforting magic to ease us into the black. But that’s all it is, an illusion. Right?

Last October saw the publication in the journal Resuscitation of the largest ever medical study into near-death and outof-body experiences. Over a period of four years University of Southampton scientists studied over 2,000 patients who suffered cardiac arrests at 15 hospitals in Britain, America and Austria. Nearly 40% of those who survived claimed to be “aware” when clinically dead, with one man claiming to have watched his own resuscitation from the corner of the room.

“We know the brain can’t function when the heart has stopped beating” lead study author Dr Sam Parnia, now of New York State University, tells the Telegraph. “But in this case, conscious awareness appears to have continued up to three minutes into the period when the heart wasn’t beating, even though the brain typically shuts down 20-30 seconds after the heart has stopped.” The man described everything that happened around him, even noting the beeps of machine enabling them to time how long his experienced lasted: “He seemed very credible and everything that he said had happened to him actually happened.”

Twenty percent of the patients reported feelings of peacefulness, while a third spoke of time slowing or speeding up. That bright light made an appearance with some and 13% felt a separation from their bodies. Nearly one in ten had experiences compatible with traditional definitions of a NDE. “Estimates have suggested that millions of people have had vivid experiences in relation to death but the scientific evidence has been ambiguous at best,” concludes Dr Parnia. “Many people have assumed that these were hallucinations or illusions but they do seem to corresponded to actual events and a higher proportion of people may have vivid death experiences, but do not recall them due to the effects of brain injury or sedative drugs on memory circuits. These experiences warrant further investigation.”

“We just don’t know what’s going on,” adds Dr David Wilde of Nottingham Trent University, a research psychologist also studying out-of-body experiences. “Most studies look retrospectively, 10 or 20 years ago, but the researchers went out looking for examples and used a really large sample size, so this gives the work a lot of validity. We are still very much in the dark about what happens when you die and hopefully this study will help shine a scientific lens onto that.”

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 145

Take a Load Off Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I’m not so much of a morning person, not anymore, not now I’m older,” muses Hamish Jamieson. “But when I’m at sea, I’m up in the dark at five-o-clock in the morning with a steaming mug of tea in my hand waiting to watch the dawn. My wife thinks I’m mad, but that’s okay. I just love the dawn. There’s something about the smell of being at sea that you can’t explain. It gets in your blood.”

To further add to that romantic notion, picture Hamish’s preferred choice of vessel, one that truly floods the imagination with notions of proper, ocean-going adventure: the freighter ship. “There are no spunky chicks or guys with six-packs to serve you,” he chuckles.

“There is no steward in a bow tie hovering around, waiting for a tip. It’s just you, and the water.” If you’re comfortable in your own environment, Hamish continues, and enjoy your own company, then you’ll love freighters: “You can go on the bridge whenever you like, you can go down to the engine room, you can even go up to the bow and do a Kate Winslet impression if you so please!”

Hamish was thrust into a life of adventure from birth. His father was in the British Army, stationed in Ghana where Hamish was born. Months later, “we jetted out from Accra in an old VC10, and flew across the Sahara to Rome”. Hamish has visited every continent. His life of travel became a love of travel and he now boasts over 40 years’ worth of tourism experience, including a few years with P&O Lines of London as a purser. For the past two decades he has co-helmed Freighter Travel in Napier. “It all started when a guy walked into my office one day and said ‘I want to travel on this’,” says Hamish. “He showed me a picture in a magazine of the Baltic Eagle cargo ship.

It was owned by Bank Line of London, and sailed through the Kiel Canal. These were the days before the internet, and so it took a while, but after a few calls I eventually found the ship on the Lloyd’s listings. I called them and they said they take passengers. It got me interested.

The guy was called Graeme Etheridge and when he came back we started up Freighter Travel.”

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 146

As a method of travel, Hamish says that it is addictive: “Once you’ve been to sea, it’s all about being at sea. Anyone who thinks there is nothing to see has obviously never spent a great deal of time looking at it. There is always something going on – birds coming and going, flying fish, dolphins frolicking, sharks, whales and orcas. Come the end of the day, you sit up on the bow with a glass of wine or a G&T and watch the world go by. It’s so peaceful, so quiet. When I first met my wife, she asked what I do and I told her I put passengers on freighters for holidays.

Her jaw dropped. She’s now been on four and can’t wait for the next one.”

There are, he says, three main types of freighter traveller. The greenies are the fastest growing market as it’s a carbon neutral mode, but, “unfortunately, a lot of them have got a lot of dreams but no money so they don’t go in the end”. The next group are the “can’t fly, won’t fly”, whether through fear or previous cases of deep vein thrombosis. The final group are those that love the sea, but hate the idea of a cruise “and all the rubbish that goes with it”. Nowhere is out of bounds on a freighter ship. “On a ten-day cruise there are some nights where you basically wouldn’t leave the cabin unless you’re in formal dress. If you were to step on to the bridge, you are likely be arrested and locked up until the next port. On a cargo ship, if you want to go and have a chat with the officers or the captain, you just ask.”

In fact, you eat with the captain each night: “The food is always pretty good because it’s the same as what the officers eat. But there’s no choice, take it or leave it.” Hamish says that the biggest misconception is that freighter travel is cheap travel, but the days of “working your passage, chipping paint or washing the decks” are long gone: “There is still this perception that you can sail to England for fifty quid, whereas it’s actually around $7,000. It’s not a cheap alternative, but once on board, there’s nothing to pay. On a cruise liner you can easily spend the fare again once on board, with drinks and shore excursions, but on a freighter, you pay crew prices,

not cruise prices. If you want a whisky, you buy a bottle – scotch is around US$8 – if you want a beer, you buy a tray for $24.”

The cabins are always of a good standard as they’re officers cabins, stocked with fridges, TVs and DVD players. Other on-board amenities usually include table tennis, libraries and plunge pools. Single travellers usually pay no surcharge, and there are often single cabins. All cabins have en-suite. Hamish won’t put passengers in ships where the captain doesn’t speak a good level of English (“English is the language of the sea!”), and mainly uses western European companies. However, be warned, while a cruise liner’s schedule is planned years in advance, when hitching a ride with a freighter ship one must accept that ports, dates and even the actually vessel can change with just hours’ notice, “and often do!”. That’s part of what makes it such an adventure. “The weather, too, changes of course,” says Hamish. “The master will steer a cruise ship around a squall so that passengers on deck don’t get wet or their cocktails watered down by the rain, but on a freighter it’s full steam ahead, right through those clouds and lashing rain.

You break out the other side and suddenly it’s calm and peaceful again.”

So don’t expect disco nights and silver service, but do expect a life-changing experience. “The closest you’ll come to a party is a Filipino karaoke night,” says Hamish. “I’ve been on voyages where the captain called safety meetings each night as an excuse to serve us drinks, and others where we’ve had barbeques with the crew at the back of the ship, a spit roast over an old 40-gallon drum full of

charcoal. It can be strained if the crew aren’t sure how to handle the captain, or it can be hilarious. You have to be adaptable.” As with everything in life, if you undertake the journey with an open mind, it promises to be a highly rewarding one. “A Dutchman here in Napier recently flew to England and came back the scenic route, which takes 54 days,” says Hamish.

“He took War and Peace, The Pillars

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of the Earth, and the follow-up, on my recommendation, so when he returned I asked him what he thought of the books.

He had such fun he didn’t have time to read them. I asked what he was doing, and when he stopped and thought, he couldn’t remember. He just knew he had such a great time and couldn’t wait to do it again. He’s soon off on his third voyage.”

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FAREWELL TO 2014

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

In many ways, 2014 was a big year for New Zealand.

There was an election of course, which is always an important part of our civic calendar.

The economy has continued to grow, more jobs have been created, and more people have found work. New Zealand is on the right path and the country is doing better and better.

Prime Minister John Key represented New Zealand at the APEC meeting in Beijing and the G20 meeting in Australia.

Respect for our country is very high around the world.

New Zealand was elected to the United Nations Security Council and from there we will be able to exert more influence on global affairs and ideas.

What a happy month December is; Christmas decorations in the malls, shop windows with their festive displays, Christmas trees for sale at the side of the road and yummy Christmas cakes, puddings, fruit mince pies and all that there to tempt us; and to top it off the expectation of summer holidays!

I love the buzz of this month: the baking, the buying of gifts, decorating our home and office with a fresh pine tree, lots of lights and Christmas decorations. Yes I do love this month, but there is still lots of work to be done before I can put my feet up on Christmas day. Inspections must take place, reports written up, maintenance organized and properties rented, so business as usual! More important this year my daughter Courtenay, who is our Letting Manager and Office Administrator is having a baby on the 15th December so all go at Just Rentals.

Landlords take note: it is most important to check those rents.

Tenants can get behind at this time of year and it is so difficult for them to catch up in the New Year.

So another year ends and we look forward to our Christmas break although we are always on call and will be open during Christmas and New Year. Appliances still breakdown, taps keep dripping, hot water cylinders leak, tenants get locked out and need keys, and properties need to be rented.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Sylvia Lund AREINZ

“

New Zealand was elected to the United Nations Security Council and from there we will be able to exert more influence on global affairs and ideas.

Following the election, I was honoured to be chosen as the Chair of the Health Select Committee. My previous work in Southern Cross has given me a bit of an insight in to this area and I look forward to learning more about it.

Accessible, quality healthcare for all is a critically important part of New Zealand’s culture. I look forward to working to make the system even better in the coming years.

I continue to work as hard as I can for the Tamaki electorate.

I undertook hundreds of meetings across the community this year and sent thousands of letters. I met countless constituents face to face and heard from a few thousand others via letters and emails.

I enjoy the exchange of ideas and the many discussions I’ve had in this role and I look forward to the coming year. I have no doubt it will be at least as exciting and productive as this one. In the meantime, I wish you and your families all the best for the holidays and the rapidly approaching summer.

As always, if there is ever anything I can do to help, please contact my office.

The friendly team specialising in home rentals and property management.

Visit our website at www.justrentals.co.nz 40 St Johns Road, Meadowbank Office Phone 09 528 4818 After Hours Phone 09 521 2539 Fax 09 528 4816 Email justrentals@xtra.co.nz

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 150

Simon O’Connor MP for Tamaki Ph: 09 575 9842 Address:16 Goldie St, St Heliers Auckland 1071

Epsom Branch

Pukekohe Branch Botany Branch

123 Manukau Road Tel: + 64 9 638 6969

35 Edinburgh St Tel: + 64 9 237 1008

19/2 Bishop Dunn Place Tel: + 64 9 274 8003

Takapuna Branch 1/2 Rangitira Ave Tel: + 64 9 489 1919

— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 151

IS YOUR BRAIN AS FIT AS IT CAN BE? 5 BRAIN TRAINING APPS TO TRY DURING THE HOLIDAYS

RUDY’S PC SERVICES

WELCOME TO RUDY’S TIPS ‘N TRICKS Welcome to Rudy’s Tips ‘n Tricks column.

We have just launched our new website www.rudys.co.nz which has new laptops tablets and PC’s that you can purchase directly, as well as backup drives and all computer related products.

This year has been a much better year for all New Zealanders.

Business and consumer confidence has helped to generate new sales and business in many areas, including the computer industry. We at Rudy’s PC Services have had a steady increase in sales of laptops, internet protection and antivirus software, as well as a resurgence of repair work on PC’s, laptops and also phones.

Words: Caitlin McKenna

Whether you’re retired, employed or a student, research has shown that both physical and mental activity are key in reducing your likelihood of becoming afflicted with a mental disorder, says Dr James S. Gordon, clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Family Medicine at Georgetown Medical School. With the rate of mental illness increasing worldwide, there are some amazing apps around to both de-stress and enhance the users’ lifestyle depending on your need.

Lumosity (Andriod, IOS), Premium Subscriptions. Using split session gaming, Lumosity helps the user improve their attention, memory, problem solving and processing speed. One of the most downloaded apps, Lumosity was created from research gathered through the Human Cognition Project, an effort that encompasses research from 36 of the world’s top universities on the study of cognitive ability.

Happify (IOS). Happify trains the user’s brain to think happier thoughts. Focussing on the fundamentals of positive psychology and using polls, quiz’s and a gratitude journal, Happify helps the user to gradually control negative thoughts, cope with stress and develop gratitude.

Eidetic (IOS). Using a technique called spaced repetition, Eidetic helps you to memorise anything from important facts, to phone numbers, bank details and cooking recipes. Fundamentally acting as a digital flash card of sorts, the spatial repetition app is helpful for children as well as adults wanting to learn how to better indefinitely retain and access the information they’ve remembered.

BellyBio Interactive Breathing (Android, IOS). This free app teaches the user to manage their anxiety and stress through mastering correct deep breathing techniques. Using biofeedback and music, this interactive app corrects the user’s breathing pattern to ensure breathing remains regular and steady.

Sleep Cycle Alarm Clock (Android, IOS). This top rated app acts effectively as an advanced alarm clock that analyses your sleep and monitors the factors that could be affecting your sleep.

With positive features across a number of publications including Wired, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, this 5 star app is one of the most downloaded apps worldwide.

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We have dipped our toes into the 3D printer market, testing the available models and having fun creating all sorts of things. Call me if you are interested in finding out more.

“

beware the Christmas bargains...

There is always a mountain of cheap shoddy product on offer for the festive season. Talk to us for peace of mind about new hardware.

My best Christmas tip for you is to back up your files. Put all your precious data on a backup drive and hide it when you go on vacation, or better yet leave it with friends or family.

Also, beware the Christmas bargains. If it seems too cheap to be true, well it probably is. There is always a mountain of cheap shoddy products on offer over the festive season. Talk to us for peace of mind about new hardware.

At Rudy’s PC Services we can help you set up the best solution for your needs.

Call us regarding anything related to your computer and we will be glad to advise you and fulfil your requirements.

We are all about making long term relationships with our customers. We give ongoing advice and support. Often for free!

Like us on Facebook and share with your friends and family.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We will be available on all but the statutory days.

Best wishes, Rudy and Rosemary.

Rudy’s PC Services 09 579 78 09 rudy@rudys.co.nz Rudy's Verve Mag advert.pdf

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27/09/13

10:13 AM

MANAGING THE CHRISTMAS BUDGET

Christmas is a time for enjoyment. It can also be a time of financial stress.

Most families find a way through, but some struggle. Some of the worst situations occur, in this city, when people take on debt with unscrupulous pay day lenders or loan sharks. Loans may look reasonable when advertised as “8% interest per week.” But that adds up to 416% interest per year. That means a loan on a $300 phone could cost well over $1000.

The government is tackling this problem head-on. We are boosting funding for budgeting services by $22 million over four years — tripling funding levels since 2007/08. Budgeting services help families to increase their financial literacy and get better with money.

We have also launched the Community Finance Pilot Scheme, operated in parts of Auckland as a partnership between the private sector and the Ministry for Social Development. The pilot gives vulnerable families access to safe, affordable lending for important items, like a reliable car. Financial education requirements are bundled into the loan so that borrowers can learn how to manage their budget and debts. We’re going to be monitoring this pilot closely to see if it can be implemented elsewhere.

We also need to tighten up on unscrupulous lenders. The government has already passed the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Act — the biggest overhaul of consumer credit laws in a decade.

These reforms are about helping everyday consumers when borrowing money. Under the act, lenders must act responsibly, or face consequences.

A major part of these reforms is the Responsible Lending Code.

As the Minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs, I have responsibility for bringing the act and code in to force. The code gives lenders guidance on how to meet the new responsible lending obligations. It looks to increase protection for people who borrow, while keeping compliance costs down for those lenders who already have good, responsible systems in place.

The draft version of the code is currently out for consultation. We want to hear whether people think the code provides enough protection for consumers and enough certainty for lenders.

Above all, if we can, over time, improve financial capability, many families will enjoy a less stressful Christmas.

Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

CROSBY LAW

VENDOR WARRANTIES Clause 6.2(5) of the Auckland District Law Society ninth edition form deals with vendor warranties relating to works carried out on a property.

6.2 The vendor warrants and undertakes that at the giving and taking of possession: (5) Where the vendor has done or caused or permitted to be done on the property any works for which a permit or building consent was required by law: (a) The required permit or consent was obtained; and (b) The works were completed in accordance with that permit or consent; and (c) Where appropriate, a code compliance certificate was issued for those works; and (d) All obligations imposed under the Building Act 2004 were fully complied with.

An important point to note about the vendor warranty is that it will only apply if the vendor (or any contractor that the vendor instructs) has completed the work during the vendor’s period of ownership.

Although it is the vendor’s responsibility to ensure that they have not breached the warranty, a purchaser should also be vigilant in their due diligence investigations prior to entering into an agreement.

In this respect a Land Information Memorandum is a good starting point and will tell you what (if any) consents have been applied for and whether the relevant code of compliance has been issued.

Some examples of works that may require a building consent are: Decks (if higher than 1.5 metres from ground level); fences (if higher than 2.5 metres) and retaining walls (if higher than 1.5 metres). Note also that if significant earthworks are involved for a retaining wall, a resource consent may also be required.

If bathroom or kitchen renovations have been carried out, a building consent will in all likelihood be required if new plumbing has been installed for these works. If a vendor has not obtained the appropriate consent then the warranty clause should be amended to reflect the actual situation to avoid any pre or post settlement issues.

Finally, I am available over the Christmas break if anyone needs any legal assistance – Merry Christmas Verve readers!

HELPING CLIENTS ACHIEVE SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES HELPING CLIENTS ACHIEVE SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES

Director Donnelle Crosby

Director Donnelle Crosby

PO Box 37784 Parnell, Auckland 1151

PO Box 37784 Parnell, Auckland 1151

Paul Goldsmith MP National List MP based in Epsom Paul.goldsmith@parliament.govt.nz www.paulgoldsmith.co.nz 09 524 4930

19 Great South Road, Level 3 Newmarket, Auckland

19 Great South Road, Level 3 Newmarket, Auckland

p +64 21 771 128 e donnelle@crosbylawsolicitor.com w www.crosbylawsolicitor.com

p +64 21 771 128 e donnelle@crosbylawsolicitor.com w www.crosbylawsolicitor.com — VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 153

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Voice Matters

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Personal stories are part of a family’s treasure-trove of memories. These recollections are gems – and they deserve to be recorded.

Ask Voice Matters to record your special person.

A gift to them and a treasure for the family.

021 062 4607 info@voicematters.co.nz www.voicematters.co.nz

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 154

CHRISTMAS TREES PROOF

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— VERVE DECEMBER 2014 // 155