'25
An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.
Girl Bosses like Helena Christensen and New Zealand’s own Alexia Hilbertidou lead the way this April. We also take a journey through the artworks of Newmarket and explore the bright lights of Macau, China .
“ I woke up and I thought, ‘I’m really happy, I feel like I’ve made the right decision,’ and that was a lovely feeling.
Margaret McLean understands freedom and adventure in a different way to most. For 22 years her work took her in a circuit across New Zealand four times a year, calling a 26-foot caravan home.
When pondering her retirement years, she contemplated being on the move again, but it was ultimately her connections in Auckland that decided it. “I’ve got a lovely network of friends on the Shore, and I want to keep seeing them regularly. We do all sorts of little things. We jump on the bus and the train and the ferry and go all sorts of places. I want to keep doing that as long as I’m able to,” she explains.
Now, she has embarked on her next journey as the pioneer resident in the new Fitzroy apartments at Waterford Retirement Village. Margaret doesn’t even pause to think when asked what prompted her to move. “The garden, the lawn, the maintenance of my house, it was all just becoming a bit of a burden. I knew I wanted to get settled into a village while I was still young and fit enough to enjoy the facilities on offer,” tells Margaret.
She laughs as she describes her search for the perfect village. “I think I’ve seen every village in Auckland! On my first visit to Waterford, I knew immediately that I could live here.” A priority at the top of the list was location. “Hobsonville Point is convenient for me, for my friends on the Shore, for my doctor, my dentist, for all the things that I am doing, such as volunteering at Hospice.”
There are other practical considerations too. “I’ve had some pretty serious health issues in the past, so healthcare was important to me,” Margaret says openly. “Waterford is in between North Shore and Waitakere Hospital,” she laughs, “So that was a bonus!” Having ways to keep fit and active was a must for Margaret. She uses Waterford’s indoor pool and spa 3-4 times a week and describes their gym equipment as ‘top class.’
“Waterford’s also halfway in between Albany, Westgate and NorthWest for shopping and that suits me down to the ground! There are plenty of nice cafes in the area and restaurants…pretty much everything I need is within 15 minutes.”
The 74-year-old is still exploring and has discovered even more to love about the vibrant and modern suburb she now calls home. She relishes the fact she can simply open the gate from her balcony and head off on her regular walks. “There are so many parks in Hobsonville, and that boardwalk - I just absolutely love it! There’s the bus service too, which actually surprised me. I knew that there was a ferry and it’s free with the gold card. I can walk down to the ferry in about 20mins.”
Having moved in at the end of January, Margaret has been impressed from day one. “Murray the Maintenance Person was incredible. On my moving day, I had the truck come into my driveway just as I got a phone call to say that the lounge suite was being delivered to my apartment. I couldn’t be in two places at once. Murray said, “Don’t worry about it. I’m here. I’ll open up.” It was a weight off my shoulders. When I got here, the furniture was in exactly the spot I had envisaged putting it.”
The team at Waterford supported Margaret throughout her transition into the village, regularly checking in with her. “All of the staff, they were phenomenal, and so helpful,” she says. “And the residents! I had a lady who arrived with cookies and two frozen meals, another arrived with a lovely card. I just felt so welcome and at home right from the very beginning.”
“About three weeks after I moved in, I wasn’t quite finished unpacking, but I woke up and I thought, ‘I’m really happy, I feel like I’ve made the right decision,’ and that was a lovely feeling.”
For Margaret, the adventures continue. Waterford is not the happy ending - but instead, a wonderful new beginning.
Waterford Retirement Village, 84 Buckley Avenue, Hobsonville Point, Auckland
0800 333 688
oceaniahealthcare.co.nz
Introducing Ashbury Heights, a new premium Qestral lifestyle village in the lovely suburb of Maunu, Whangārei. This expansive single storey resthome/ hospital is open for admissions. The first stage of houses is complete.
Maybe it was anxiety, a subconscious effort to emotionally disconnect from possible rejection, or both that led me to adopt the pseudonym Zack Black when submitting some writing samples to a Hong Kong magazine called Beats while on my travels around 20 years ago.
Almost ready to return to the UK, I received an email from Beats’ editor Scott Murphy which began with these exact five words: “Zack, I like your style…” Just as vivid is the memory of my mother’s silence as she tried to compose herself as I told her over the phone from the other side of the world that my dream of becoming a writer might well be realised – along with the fact that I wouldn’t be coming home. In fact, I would never return home again, not permanently, at least. Instead, two decades, a marriage, and a couple of kids later, here I am in my adopted home, Aotearoa.
Scott wasted no time throwing me into the deep end in Hong Kong, sending me out on my first day in a towering city that I barely knew to a press conference of an artist that I’d never heard of and insisting that I speak up. Boy, were those days thrilling. After I left the city, I told Scott that I was working on a book, and
he told me that he pictured it to be in the vein of Infinite Jest. Such a comparison is beyond absurd, of course, but for him to have put such a positive spin on my potential endeavours has always stayed with me during those many moments of self-doubt that we all endure. Because true leaders lift others.
That’s why it means the world to have Scott’s byline in this issue of Verve beneath his marvellous article about the region of Macau – part of our beautiful extended China feature that begins on page 62.
Continuing with the theme of leadership, our main focus this month is business, with a spotlight on girl bosses. Helena Christensen’s partnership with BoConcept is accompanied by interviews with the likes of the effervescent Lou Giles, founder of creative agency Husk – among others; business advisor Catherine Cooke, inspirational founder of The Engine; and entrepreneurial Young New Zealander of the Year finalist, Alexia Hilbertidou, who believes “when we help each other, we unlock our highest potential”.
Because, contrary to that popular saying, business should always be personal. Like that great sage Michael Scott from The Office says: “It’s the most personal thing in the world.”
Enjoy the issue.
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Editorial & Creative Directors
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Jamie Christian Desplaces
Graphic Designer / Social Media
Yamin Cook
Contributors
Aimée Ralfini, Bella Sampson, Timothy Giles, Dennis Knill, Lucy Kennedy, Manish Kumar Arora, Milly Nolan
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Cover Photography: Helena Christensen
Verve is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to cafés and businesses throughout Auckland. For distribution details or to sign up for your free monthly digital copy please visit our website vervemagazine.co.nz
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During the 90s, Danish supermodel Helena Christensen was famously one of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ that dominated fashion and shaped culture beyond the studios and the catwalks.
Now, BoConcept, another iconic Danish name of design, is embarking on an exciting creative journey with Helena as its Global Artistic Director. In this role, she will promote the ‘Art of Living Danishly’ campaign by curating content, leading lifestyle discussions, and engaging with fellow Danish creatives to explore what it means to ‘live Danish’.
“This is a dream come true for me,” says Helena. “I’ve always loved interiors, and this role brings together my passions for design, creativity, and intentional living.”
Helena’s love for design is nothing new. Nearly 20 years ago, she co-founded the concept store Butik in New York City with designer Leif Sigersen before teaming up with long-time collaborator Camilla Staerk to create Staerk & Christensen, an interior design and lifestyle studio spanning fashion, furniture, photography, and film. She has also worked as a founding partner and creative director of Nylon magazine, collaborated on bestselling designs with Habitat London, and served as creative director of the luxury perfume house Strangelove.
“The way I decorate my home is just as important as how I dress myself,” she adds. “Being Global Artistic Director at BoConcept isn’t just a title; it’s an exploration of what it means to live well and a celebration of Danish design.”
More recent projects further showcase Helena’s eye for design, and versatility. She collaborated with New York-based studio Bower on a home accessories collection and partnered with Danish designer Kasper Salto to create a special edition of the ‘Runner Chair’. Plus, Helena and her team are working on an ongoing prefab housing project with architect Gulla Jonsdottir called Revolution Precrafted.
Helena’s connection to BoConcept is, of course, deeply rooted in their shared Danish heritage. Born in Copenhagen, Helena now lives in Manhattan but often spends time at her beach house on the Danish coast, and her creative vision aligns with Denmark’s growing global influence in fashion, design, and food, “where tradition meets innovation”.
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Founded in Denmark in 1952, BoConcept has since grown into the world’s most global furniture retailer, with over 300 stores in 64 countries – including here in New Zealand. Danish design played a key role in the mid-century modern movement, known for its clean lines and functionality, and these elements remain central to BoConcept’s vision. The brand regularly collaborates with award-winning designers to create furniture, accessories, and lighting tailored for private homes and business spaces.
Now, Helena promises to bring a fresh, personal touch. Her first creative project with BoConcept is the just-launched Flora , a limited-edition series of botanical art prints from her personal photography archive. The collection reflects her deep admiration for nature and ability to capture everyday beauty. “There’s something mesmerising about looking at a flower up close,” she says. “Nature’s magic and complexity are impossible to fully grasp, but through photography, I can capture glimpses of that beauty.”
A celebrated photographer, Helena’s work has been widely published in art and design magazines and exhibited in galleries either side of the Atlantic. For Helena, photography is instinctual. “It’s like breathing to me,” she says. “I see everything in frames. I’m always searching for moments and curious about everything around me.”
“Design is more than just aesthetics – it’s about how a space makes you feel.”
BoConcept couldn’t be more delighted – or excited!
“We can’t wait to combine our design expertise with Helena’s global style and Danish life philosophy,” reveals BoConcept chief marketing officer, Paula McGuinness. “Together, we hope to inspire consumers worldwide to embrace a new era of living beautifully.”
“Design is more than just aesthetics – it’s about how a space makes you feel,” Helena adds. “When your environment is beautiful, comfortable, and a true reflection of you, life becomes more fulfilling. You feel freer, more productive, and ultimately happier.”
Fresh out of uni at 19 with a degree in marketing and computer science, Lou Giles was ready to make waves. She stepped into the role of marketing manager and creative director at Parachute Music, driving an indie label, distributor, and festival brand to new heights.
“It was my ‘first real job’ and an excellent environment to cut my teeth,” she tells Verve , “giving me the skills and network to launch my creative career, establishing Husk, my brand and design ‘unagency’ in 2000. And I haven’t looked back.”
Seven years ago, Lou also co-launched Morningcider, closely followed by Side Hustle and Phat Philly’s, having already helped brand local eateries, Crave and Kind in the Morningside ‘hood.
“When I was invited to jump on board Morningside's next ‘good time’ initiative, Morningcider, it was a big yes from me - initially because I like a good pun, but also Nige and Tim were friends of mine and who doesn’t love activating a new idea with your mates?”
Looking back, have you always had an entrepreneurial spirit?
It’s always been there! Both of my parents were hard workers who started their own businesses, so it was in my DNA. I like the energy of new ideas, solving problems and pulling something off - even better if I can convince others to join me for the ride! Youth camps, school leadership, uni camps, balls, weddings - you name it, over the years I have dreamed it up and made it happen. Don’t stick me in a huiI just want to do the do-ey!
What are you most proud of?
It sounds cheesy and probably a bit predictable, but I’m eternally proud of
Energy, creativity and action walk into a bar. Lou Giles buys them a drink!
my two sons, and no other achievements, events, businesses, whatever come remotely close.
My eldest - Oli - is 19, able to pick up any sport in minutes, loyal, forthright and funny and currently hunting for an automotive apprenticeship. My youngest, Reuben, is sweet 16 - loves tech, is linguistically brilliant, sassy, helpful and excellent company.
What are essential leadership characteristics?
I preach ‘customer orientation’ as the fuel behind great brands, and empathy is really at the heart of it. Holding hands with empathy is curiosity - how can you know whether what you are doing is working, or how someone perceives your business, brand or product, if you
don’t ask? And, then of course, you must be willing to listen and take on board feedback, even if it’s ouch.
What should everyone consider when starting a business?
I recommend a mentor or a startup coach – so much so that I have trained to be one! There is a wealth of wisdom out there but having someone in your corner who can shape and tailor their expertise and experience to you is way more useful than any google search or YouTube tutorial.
Describe yourself in a sentence or a few words…
A mum. A serial entrepreneur. A mischief-maker, sanctuary-seeker, foody and a word-nerd. I have a penchant for classic VWs, rap and donuts. Oh, and you can’t shut me up about pickleball!
A top three finalist for the 2025 Young New Zealander of the Year Award, she’s also a Forbes Under 30 honouree, and founder and CEO of GirlBoss NZ, a 17,500-strong network with a mission to “close the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, maths, leadership and entrepreneurship”.
Remarkably, Alexia was only 16 when she founded the pioneering company in 2015. She has since been invited to be part of projects with the likes of Nasa and National Geographic, and as a speaker at the UN.
“I was raised in Kelston by my incredible single mum,” she tells Verve . “She’d always say to me: ‘This might be where we are, but this is not where you are going.’”
Through GirlBoss NZ, Alexia has helped other equally ambitious young women realise their talents, such as Georgia Latau, founder of Pōtiki Poi, a business that makes and sells poi.
“She started the business at 12 years old to fundraise for a kapa haka trip,” beams Alexia.
“Georgia has grown Pōtiki Poi into the world’s largest poi company, now stocked in over 30 retailers, including Te Papa Museum, and sold internationally across Australia and Japan. Her employees are part of the Dunedin Disabled Citizens Society and are paid a living wage, and she uses eco-friendly, second-hand materials to reduce environmental impact.”
Alexia recalls being the only girl in her digital technology and advanced physics classes and
wondering how many other schoolgirls around the country felt so alone. She chose to channel her “feelings of isolation” into establishing GirlBoss NZ.
“My goal was to help just one young woman find belonging,” she continues. “I could never have imagined that we’d now be helping tens of thousands of young women build confidence and find community.”
What challenges have you encountered as a young female leader?
“The biggest was battling my own self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I questioned whether I, a high school student, was qualified to address the gender gap and start a business.
“I distinctly remember googling ‘networks for ambitious young women’ and ‘women in STEM NZ’, hoping to join a community, but found nothing. That’s when I thought, ‘If not me, then who? If not now, then when?’ So, when facing imposter syndrome, I ask myself: ‘Why not me?’”
Imposter syndrome, admits Alexia, is a “daily visitor” which she combats by “recalling inspiring women who overcame even greater challenges”, such as the suffragettes.
“Another strategy I use is reframing fear,” she adds. “When I’m afraid to speak up in a meeting or put myself forward, I remind myself: I’m allowed to feel fearful, but I’m not allowed to let that fear get in the way of my contribution to this world. Like my mum says: ‘You can’t complain about the lack of female role models if you refuse to be one.’”
You’ve worked alongside some pretty inspirational figures – who stood out the most, and who most surprised you?
“Jamie Oliver, who mentored me while I was studying at the University of Cambridge, is the most charismatic
person I’ve ever met! He said to me: ‘Alexia, when you walk into any boardroom — who is the leader? Who is the influencer? It’s the one with the most hope. Be the one with hope. Be the one with vision. Be the one with optimism.’ Meeting Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was also a humbling experience. What surprised me most was her brilliant sense of humour.”
Similarly, you’ve been involved with so many meaningful initiatives – any that especially stand out?
“One of my first lessons: a man is not a financial plan. My vision is for every young woman to have financial freedom – financial independence gives us the power to walk away from anything, whether that’s a toxic job, a flatmate, a partner, or a boss.”
The company’s free 10-day school holiday programme, CashFlow, has so far equipped over 1,500 young women with “a financial mentor and practical tools on saving, investing, and smashing limiting beliefs”.
What strategies do you believe are most effective in promoting women’s leadership and representation in various sectors?
“For me, it comes down to three things: visibility, access, and ownership. Regarding visibility, you can’t be what you can’t see. We need to showcase diverse women leaders in every field – not just highlight reels, but real, behind-thescenes stories. When a young woman sees someone who looks like her and who’s walked a similar path, it changes what she believes is possible.
“Next, access. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. That’s why I’m big on mentorship, exposure, and support. Through GirlBoss Edge, we’ve helped 5,000 young women gain access to mentors and experiences – sometimes, one connection is all it takes to open a door.
“Lastly, ownership. Yes, barriers exist, but so does our power. Leadership starts when you stop waiting for permission and start backing yourself. Speak up, even when your voice shakes. Take the first step, even when you don’t feel ready. Confidence doesn’t come first, action does. Share your story. Back other women. And most importantly, back yourself. Leadership isn’t about waiting to be chosen. It’s about choosing yourself.”
Alexia ruminates on what she wishes she knew when first starting out, and top of the list is that it’s okay to not immediately have all the answers. “I wish I could scream at my younger self: ‘You’ll never feel 100% ready, and that’s perfectly fine!’ Remember, there’s enough success to go around for all of us. Lift each other up. Support one another. When we help each other, we unlock our highest potential.
“To anyone wanting to blaze their own path: What if you’re already enough?”
GirlBoss Edge: Sustainability is a 10-day, fully funded online career accelerator for young women aged 15 to 21, designed to equip participants with the skills, networks, and confidence to pursue careers in sustainability, engineering, and the electricity sector. Participants also receive one-on-one mentoring from industry professionals and complete a real-world challenge to build their CV and win prizes. Apply at girlbossedge.com/sustainability
It’s free to become a member of the GirlBoss movement for young women aged 13 to 25. Parents are also welcome to join and receive regular newsletters. Find out more at girlboss.co.nz .
You can also connect with me Alexia Hilbertidou at LinkedIn, where she regularly shares updates about our programmes and impact.
The team at The Engine comprises some of the nation’s best business advisors. Verve sits down for some top tips from founder Catherine Cooke.
What are some of the most common mistakes that business owners make when starting out?
Diving into their passion without a solid plan. Failing to plan, particularly for growth and eventual exit, can create major roadblocks. Exit strategies should be considered from day one, alongside a realistic and detailed business plan that covers every aspect of the business. This includes securing sufficient working capital, defining the business identity, managing cash flow, clarifying the owner’s role and other key positions, ensuring compliance, and outlining sales and marketing strategies.
Qualifications and work experience are easily measured, but how do you best judge how well someone might fit into a team?
Do they share your vision and mission? Ask questions around their values to understand what drives them and how they approach challenges. Passion is crucial – they should be genuinely excited about joining your journey. Look for qualities that will add value, not just skills that tick a box. It’s about finding someone who enhances collaboration and strengthens your organisation’s future.
What are the best ways for businesses to differentiate themselves in a crowded market?
Businesses must be crystal clear on who they are, what they offer, and most importantly, be visible. I often say, marketing is like dating, but branding is the reason people say yes. Many businesses invest in a sleek website and set up social platforms, but they fail to put serious money into making sure people actually find them. Visibility isn’t just about having an online presence – it’s about driving traffic through lead generation pages, remarketing campaigns, and using Google effectively. Back this up with storytelling through blogs, newsletters, and social media to reinforce your message. Ultimately, if you want your brand to stand out, be seen, and ensure your delivery matches your promise. Visibility and consistency are the keys to differentiation.
How can businesses build a strong brand identity?
Brand identity starts with clarity – knowing exactly who you are, what you offer, and how you want to be perceived. Your brand isn’t just a logo or tagline; it’s the experience you create and the trust you build. Visibility is key. Many businesses invest in a great website and social platforms but fail to put serious money into ensuring people actually find them. A strong brand is backed by strategic marketing, including lead generation pages, remarketing campaigns, and consistent storytelling through blogs, newsletters, and social media. Collaborating with others can also amplify your reach.
Should all businesses have a social media presence?
Yes, if they want to be credible and visible! Social media allows you to showcase your personality, engage in real-time, and reach people who may not yet know they need your product or service. However, it's important that your presence isn't just about posting – ensure each piece of content includes a clear call to action that drives potential customers back to your website. Your website should be designed to capture data and enable remarketing to those who engage with your social platforms.
How can small businesses leverage AI without losing a personal touch?
By using these tools to handle repetitive tasks, like customer inquiries or scheduling, while ensuring the personal touch remains in higher-value interactions. AI can streamline processes, but human engagement should still be central to building relationships.
Find out more at theengine.biz , and head to the Verve website for the unabridged interview.
Director of
was drawn to law because of its ability to make a tangible impact on people’s lives.
“The combination of problem-solving, advocacy, and strategy fascinated me, and I knew I wanted a career where I could challenge myself while helping others,” she tells Verve . “I have been practising for 17 years now, and each year has reinforced my passion for the profession.”
Have you faced significant challenges as a woman in the legal profession?
The legal industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and there have been moments where I’ve had to assert myself more to be heard or taken seriously. However, I’ve always focused on my capabilities, building strong professional relationships, and proving my value through hard work and results.
How has the legal industry evolved for women since you started your career?
There has been significant progress in terms of representation and opportunities for women in law. More women are stepping into leadership positions, and the industry is increasingly recognising the value of diversity. However, there’s still work to be done to
ensure equality at all levels, particularly in senior roles.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in law?
Believe in your ability. The legal profession can be demanding, but resilience, confidence, and a strong support network will take you far. Seek mentors early and never hesitate to ask questions.
Is there advice that you wish you had when starting out?
I wish I’d known that success in law isn’t just about knowing the law – it’s also about relationships, adaptability, and business acumen. The ability to connect with clients and colleagues is just as important as technical expertise.
What qualities do you think are essential to be a strong and effective business leader?
Integrity, decisiveness, adaptability, and the ability to communicate effectively. A good leader must also be willing to listen, continuously learn, and inspire those around them to strive for excellence.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I would say my leadership style is collaborative and empowering. I believe in creating an environment where my team feels valued, heard, and motivated to excel. A strong leader doesn’t just give direction but also fosters growth and confidence in others.
What’s the best career advice that you’ve ever received? "Embrace challenges as opportunities." Early on, I was told that setbacks and difficulties aren’t roadblocks – they’re learning experiences. Every challenge I’ve faced has helped me grow, refine my skills, and become a more resilient professional.
How do you wind down?
I make a conscious effort to maintain work-life balance. I have a young family so it’s important for me to leave work behind and spend time with my husband and kids. We love spending time on the water and outdoors.
After 25 years in advertising, Melissa Wallace wanted a fresh start still within a creative field.
“In a very short space of time – we are talking three months – we found a space, completed the fitout, found our first artists and opened,” she says. “That was back in 2019. It was hectic, but worth every single minute.”
What are some of the most important business lessons that you’ve learned along the way – and anything that you wish you’d have known when you first started out?
Push yourself out of your comfort zone. And be prepared to ‘pivot’ – everyone’s favourite word in the last few years. We New Zealanders are experts at this. For lots of reasons, things often don’t go to plan, and you need to be able to change direction and not get caught up in the fact that you need to.
Social media and websites are key to our business, and we have to keep learning. And it always takes way more time that you expect!
Have you noticed any shifts in how women are represented in the art world, and what advice would you give others first starting out?
Female artists have always been really great at supporting each other. I feel with a stronger focus on social media
and the ability for all artists to promote themselves has given many female artists a greater platform to get their practices into the world.
Podcasts, too, have enabled female artists to speak about their journeys and practice to a much wider audience. Women tend to be amazing communicators, and so the combination of social media and podcasts gives them great avenues to do what they do well.
I always advise artists to get separate professional and personal social media accounts. Often to start with they are combined and while it is nice for people to see a wee bit of life behind the scenes, I think keeping your art practice professional and separate from family life is the way to go.
Proudest professional moment to date?
I’ve been fortunate enough to have had several moments that have made me feel taking the leap in 2019 was worth it. Not least, celebrating our fifth birthday in February last year. Five years isn’t a huge length of time, but it encompassed three years of a pandemic and then a costof-living crisis. We held a celebration exhibition, and nearly all of our artists
had work in the show and many joined us for the opening, along with a large number of our regulars.
Also, every time we have an exhibition sell out, especially on opening night, feels like an absolute pinch-me moment.
Where would we most likely find you when not in the gallery?
With my family and friends. There’s nothing better than chatting, laughing and hanging out with those you love, and I’m pretty lucky to be surrounded by special people I adore.
Any upcoming exhibitions or projects that you’re particularly excited about?
We have some great shows coming up this year, a mix of group and solo exhibitions, including Our Backyard in May. Over 60% of our artists are women, so our solo shows have often been female artists, but later in the year we have solo shows with Josh Davison and Josh Lancaster. We met Josh Davison when he was first starting out and fell instantly in love with his work. And Josh Lancaster was one of the very first artists to join the gallery. It’s amazing to be in a position to be able to host a solo exhibition with him with his original works.
Enamoured Books, Auckland’s first-ever romance-dedicated bookstore, is nestled in the heart of Remuera, founded by passionate book lover Ruby Wallace.
Designed as a haven for romance readers, Enamoured invites you to immerse yourself in a world where you’re the main character. More than just a bookshop, it’s an experience, a self-care ritual, and a space where romance is celebrated in all its forms.
“Reading has always been my escape, my passion – something I inherited from my mum,” says Ruby. “I’ve adored reading romance and smut since high school, and now I get to share that love with others. Enamoured Books is my dream come true.
“I hope everyone who walks through our doors finds at least one book they adore – if not a whole stack! And if you can’t find one, we are more than happy to work to get one in for you that’s just right and caters to your identity, relationship type and or kink.”
More than a bookstore, Enamoured Books is about community, too.
“We are inclusive and have a range of books for everyone’s tastes,” adds Ruby. “We invite romance lovers to come together, chat about their latest book boyfriend, girlfriend, dissect wild plot twists, and embrace the empowering world of romance novels. Whether you’re taking a moment for yourself or meeting up with fellow readers, Enamoured is here to make you feel seen, celebrated, and inspired.’’
Founder Sarisa Nasinprom talks to Verve about her journey, the power of Thai massage, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
What has shaped your business journey?
My formative schooling years were based inside the Buddhist Mahannapharam Temple where, from a very early age, I was exposed to the concepts and practice of meditation, mindfulness, and wellbeing. After completing a bachelor’s degree in tourism and hotel management, I worked in luxury hotels and spas internationally and undertook extensive research on the world’s best. I combined this research and knowledge with my personal journey to create a vision for health and wellness in my adopted home of New Zealand.
What are some key lessons you’ve learned in growing your business?
Patience. Clarity of vision. Commitment. Obsessive attention to detail. Nothing worthwhile comes without effort.
What’s the best thing about running your own business?
The feeling I get waking up, every day, knowing that I’m fortunate enough to be realising my long-held dream and doing so on my own terms. Feeling that sense of fulfilment is a joy and a privilege.
How do you manage challenges and stress?
I practise yoga every day. I meditate. I place myself in nature as often as I can and surround myself with soft, gentle sounds.
What are your top three business tips for aspiring wellness entrepreneurs?
Listen to your body and help others listen to theirs. Work hard to find the central core of your concept – for me, it’s all about
creating a space where the soul can find peace. If you want to help others, first learn to trust yourself.
What separates Sa-Ni Spa from other wellness centres?
It’s not the calm, considered, relaxing setting. It’s not even the expert therapies. It’s the caring. Our aim, with every client, is to nurture wellbeing and health, alleviate stress and bodily pain, and help them on their journey to health and wellness.
Healing through touch is central to Sa-Ni Spa. What do you think makes Thai massage so special?
We aim to engage all senses: sound, smell, vision, taste - and especially touch. Touch conveys healing, connection and energy flow. It promotes relaxation, alignment, and holistic balance in body and mind.
What has been your biggest lesson in launching and running a luxury spa?
Dreams start with ideas and passion, but they only become real with commitment and support. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision.
It was a love of reading Sherlock Holmes “and watching too much CSI!” that inspired Keshni Rasanayagam to pursue a career as a forensic scientist.
“I was fascinated by the prospect of a science career that revolved around solving puzzles and contributing to communities in quite a unique way,” she tells Verve
There is, she says, no such thing as a typical day, but with greater experience spends less time in the lab working on physical samples and doing lab processes (“Yes, before you even ask, there was a lot of pipetting!”), and more time being deskbased and analysing DNA results.
Keshni has, she says, worked on too many fascinating cases to count, including working on bones that had been attempted to be smuggle through borders and others that had washed up on beaches or riverbanks: “Each case presents a unique challenge that has been truly gratifying to be involved with.”
How accurate is forensic science in real life compared to what we see on TV?
“TV is far more glamourised. There are no Hummers. We cannot wear high heels in the lab. And it takes a tad bit longer to get a DNA profile. However, I still do try to deliver fantastic oneliners a la Horatio Caine.”
Keshni also gets to deliver plenty of lines during her side hustle as a marriage celebrant.
“I love constantly learning and challenging myself, and being a celebrant is one way that I get to do that!” she beams. “Being a celebrant is not a job for me. It is a passion project. And with that comes my genuine joy at helping couples realise their wedding dreams.”
What do you most love about that role?
“One of my favourite parts is reading the answers to the ‘homework’ that I give couples and seeing what the bride and groom have to say about each other. It’s a privilege, really. I get a sneak peek into their relationship and learn so much about why they want to marry each other. It’s beautiful.”
What’s the most unique way a couple has said “I do”?
“I recently married my good friends – and the bride is Taylor Swift mad, to put it politely! So, I did a wedding ceremony crafted almost entirely out of Taylor Swift lyrics for them and added a few other references – think Blink 182, New Girl – as a nod to their other passions. Her vows were also composed entirely of Taylor Swift lyrics – and it worked, beautifully.”
And ever officiated at an unusual location?
“A Nepalese wedding in a backyard in West Auckland. It’s only ‘unusual’ for the fact that it was the first time I’d ever experienced one – and it was so good! The family was so inviting, including me in their customs to the point that I wasn’t allowed to leave until I had drunk a sufficient amount of ceremonial liquor! Luckily, I lived not too far away.”
Auckland’s premier retail precinct sits in the shadow of Aotearoa’s most fashionable boutiques and the looming ancestral spectacle that is Maungawhau…
The neighbourhood was originally known as Te Tī Tūtahi – meaning the ‘sacred cabbage tree standing alone’. This was a reference to a cabbage tree that grew from the corner of present-day Mortimer Pass and Broadway. Considered a danger to the passing public, the tree was chopped down in the early 1900s, but shoots from what by then had become a well-known landmark were saved by a local businessman and farmer Alfred Buckland were saved and now populate the trees of Lumsden Green.
Alfred Buckland was the head of the Buckland Family who, in 1862, built Newmarket’s historic Carpenter Gothic-style Highwic House. Over the following two decades, the home expanded dramatically to accommodate the family’s growing wealth and size – the final tally was 21 kids! Until the late 1970s, the home was continuously occupied by Buckland descendants and now serves as a museum-like experience kitted out with furnishings, items and artworks from the original period (and can also be hired for events like weddings).
The Newmarket Heritage Walk calls at both Highwic and Lumsden Green, as well as the neighbourhood’s many artworks (more on those from page 24!) and transformed industrial buildings.
Newmarket was once an industrial, manufacturing, and livestock centre, home to the likes of cattle yards, Chinese market gardens, breweries, bakers,
and sawmills. By the end of the 19th century, a horse-drawn tram system was ferrying around 2,000 passengers per week to the area, and electric trams soon followed. New Zealand’s first 50-metre pool opened in 1940 (hosting the Empire Games swimming event in 1950), and in 1965, the Newmarket viaduct was completed – the largest in Aotearoa.
Boasting Broadway and a plethora of lanes bulging with boutiques, Newmarket is truly the nation’s designer destination. More than 600 stores populate the shimmering streets, including premier labels like Balenciaga, Gucci, and Karen Walker, not to mention one of the nation’s most luxurious malls, Westfield Newmarket, home to Aotearoa’s only David Jones department store and the incredible Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq which provides old-school fun for all the family by way of bowling, retro arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and more!
From vibrant murals to thought-provoking sculptures, Newmarket is a neighbourhood that positively brims with public artworks. Verve chats with artists behind three of them.
Visitors to Newmarket will be familiar with the colourful cluster of tilting eggs positioned around Teed and Osborne Streets. Known as Knocknock, the quirky creation – commissioned by the Newmarket Arts Trust in 2010 with the support of the Newmarket Business Association – is the work of Seung Yul Oh. “Playfulness and interaction were at its core,” the artist tells Verve. “Its immediate appeal invites touch and exploration, often leading to hugs and climbing. Knocknock challenges the boundary between art and an object of curiosity.”
Do you feel that art should always have a message, and if so, is there a message that you hope people take away from your works?
There are no boundaries defining what art should be – only varying degrees of feeling and lingering memory. I hope people can expand their acceptance and broaden their perception to embrace the periphery.
What are your proudest career moments to date?
I must say this project was very special to me, as it was my first public sculpture. This experience allowed me to further develop my practice and explore new opportunities for creating sculptures in public spaces.
Any favourite Newmarket memories or hangouts?
Olympic Pool and Rialto Cinema have been my longtime favourites, especially during the film festival season. Recently, the Architecture and Design Film Festival has been a highlight. One of our family’s go-to dining combos is enjoying a meal at the Korean restaurant, Dweji, followed by ice cream at Duck Island.
Any upcoming projects that you’d like to share?
I have a solo exhibition in Sydney with 1301SW, and in Auckland with Starkwhite. Additionally, I have a public sculpture commission with the Wellington Sculpture Trust, which we have been working on for five years and will be unveiled later this year.
Hayley King, aka FLOX, is renowned in both the mural and contemporary art scenes for her distinctive stencil technique and incorporation of New Zealand’s natural world. “My work is particularly inspired by the beautiful flora and fauna of Aotearoa,” she says. “My collections – in both art and products – are created with the idea that people will feel more connected to this beautiful place we call home, whether it’s hanging a piece on their wall, or heading off overseas adorned with a FLOX luxury travel bag.”
Her latest 2025 collection, Ahi (meaning fire), symbolises the driving force behind FLOX, igniting two decades of artistry, innovation, and evolution. This collection celebrates that journey, with a palette of fiery autumnal tones, evoking FLOX’s signature warmth and energy.
Do you have a favourite work in Newmarket?
I’m all about those pillars in the Newmarket Westfield food court. I always enjoy working to a brief, so the pillars were an incredible opportunity to really connect back to their context and enhance this indoor space. The artworks are made up of food-based botanicals and repeat patterns, and work to tie into the interior, which is composed of an array of textures, greenery, and living walls.
How is street art perceived today compared to when you started out?
There has been a major shift in the public perception of what ‘street art’ is, and the benefits it brings to communities, schools and businesses. When I first picked up an aerosol can back in 2004, the medium was perceived as nothing short
of negative, but nowadays it’s more embraced and even incorporated into some school curriculums. I believe that this shift is because of the enormous effort that our generation of spray paint artists put into the medium, driving home time and time again that it could be used for good, and positive gain.
Any favourite Newmarket memories?
I remember back during my flatting days, I spent a lot of time at the Rialto Cinema - back when I had time to watch movies! Always fond memories there.
Finally, any upcoming projects or exhibitions that you’d like to share?
We co-run a newish artist-run space next to Haus Of FLOX in Grey Lynn called Eyes On Fire Gallery. The space is for up-and-coming artists to exhibit their work in the heart of central Auckland without disincentivising gallery commission fees. So, reach out, or come say hi – we’re always looking for new artists to showcase, and at ways we can expand the EOF community.
Instagram: @eyesonfire.nz gallery@eyesonfire.nz flox.co.nz
Now based in New York, revered Kiwi artist Reuben Paterson (Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāi Tūhoe, Tūhourangi, Scottish) is the creative brain behind Ándale, Ándale! (“Come on, let’s go!”), the vibrant, giant mural that adorns the front of Newmarket Train Station.
“The work acts as a cape and curtain, allowing people to exit the station onto the stage of Newmarket for work or play, and then retreat backstage into the wings once the theatrical work of day, is done,” the artist tells Verve . “As a transport hub, it has a place of purpose, and this curtain acts as the threshold behind, between and in front of the actions and events that can occur when you interact with your city.”
Is there a story behind the name? It’s interesting that no one has questioned the title before, because it carries so much weight. The name comes from my favourite Looney Tunes cartoon, and there’s a subtle nod to Speedy Gonzales in the large yellow flowers. Speedy Gonzales is a problematic cultural representation, and the title acknowledges the way we encounter ethnic and cultural stereotypes in everyday life.
When the title is placed in front of the curtain, censorship reshapes how we perceive these stereotypes, altering accepted truths. When placed behind the curtain, the characters are recognised as both complex and problematic, highlighting the tension between nostalgia and critique.
How does life in New York compare to New Zealand? Is it a permanent move? I’d love to think of it as permanent move. When I decided to relocate, it was entirely for my art practice. I had been fortunate to see many artistic dreams come true, but I wasn’t sure how much further my practice could grow at home. I want my work to have the fullest life possible, and the inspiration and experiences here give it freedom, courage, and bravery.
Is there growing interest in Māori art, and do feel a responsibility in helping to promote it?
Big changes are coming with The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Oceania wing reopening this May. There’s still work to do, but I do believe this world is finally ready for us. Our stories are sacred, yet they are universally shared. Being here to help shape this moment
is an honour. I can’t represent all of Māoridom, but I’m one vehicle helping to drive many others forward.
Any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’d like to share?
It’s a busy start to the year! My show Taniwha opens at Page Galleries from March 26 to April 26 and feels like a special show for me, connecting the northern hemisphere, to the south. I’m also part of a Rarotongan Pride show at Bergman Gallery, with smaller works at their Auckland Art Fair stand, plus a group show curated by Chantel Mathews.
In NYC, I have works in a Chelsea gallery group show and the Spring Break Art Fair with Mathew Couper, invited by Ross Brown of Art Frontier Advisory
Later this year, my work will be featured in group shows at Page Galleries and Gow Langsford Gallery, honouring Matariki, leading up to a solo exhibition in October at Gow Langsford Gallery, Auckland.
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A well-designed office should be functional and inspiring, blending style with productivity.
The first step is to maximise natural light, which can be easily achieved by positioning desks by windows and using sheer blinds. Good lighting also reduces eye strain – and even boosts focus!
Soft neutrals and warm tones create a calming effect, deep blues or greens are good for concentration, while pops of bold colours like mustard or terracotta can stimulate energy.
Furniture should balance ergonomics and aesthetics. Invest in a stylish, supportive chair and a well-
proportioned desk. Natural materials like wood, metal, and glass create a sophisticated look, while flexible pieces such as standing desks or modular shelving add versatility.
Textures bring warmth and depth to an office. Woven rugs, linen curtains, and matt ceramics add a tactile quality, making the space feel inviting. Plants also enhance well-being – consider potted greenery or a small indoor that not only adds a natural touch but also improves air quality.
Finally, personalise the space with curated artwork, sculptural pieces, or a sleek pinboard for inspiration. Strategic lighting, combining ambient and task
Resene colours to inspire:
lighting, ensures a well-lit and stylish workspace that fosters creativity and efficiency.
For those looking to renovate their office space, Resene ColorShops and the Resene website offer a comprehensive array of options visit resene.co.nz.
WORDS
ROBYN ALEXANDER
PHOTOGRAPHY
WARREN HEATH
ARCHITECT
YVETTE VAN ZYL
A meticulously site-sensitive architectural approach and restrained-yet-comfortable interiors characterise architect Yvette van Zyl’s recently completed coastal home.
Previous page : Architect Yvette van Zyl designed her home to both fit seamlessly into its rocky site and also make a striking visual statement. The use of bold vertical and horizontal elements in the design is key to its success, as is the tactility derived from the deployment of a variety of contrasting natural materials.
This page: Immediately inside the front door and to the left, a short passageway opens onto the beautifully finished kitchen, with a large kitchen island and other joinery. The floor-to-ceiling cabinetry on the far wall conceals all the storage that serious cooks and entertainers could desire.
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This page: The living, dining and kitchen space is completely open plan, and while not a very large area, has a generously spacious feel. Thanks to the fully retractable sliding doors and the use of the same flooring indoors and out, the transition between the inside of the house and the outdoor living space is seamless.
A PC Linear Pendant light fitting features above the kitchen island and the vintage extendable dining table and suspended lamp above the table were sourced in Cape Town.
These pages : Fully retracting glass doors open the indoor living space to the outdoor braai (barbecue) area, and the brick pavers used for the flooring both inside and out make for a seamless feel. Open to the views on its north-facing aspect, the area is always light-filled thanks to the brise-soleil screening wall and circular perforation in the roof above the table and is in use almost year-round. A built-in bench across one side of the space creates both additional seating and a display area for potted plants.
Above, Yvette's husband Dëon is on the open, northfacing aspect of the outdoor living area, from which panoramic views of the bay can be enjoyed.
These pages : The living area is furnished with iconic mid-century Togo lounge furniture by Ligne Roset, which has a soft solidity that combines beautifully with the various oval and circular elements in the light fittings. A rounded wood-burning stove by Dovre keeps the entire space warm during the winter.
The couple are both avid readers; Yvette designed the minimalist built-in bookshelves using the simple twin-slot rails and powdercoated metal shelving usually deployed for shop fittings. Beneath it, a marble-clad shelf displays collectibles and a Globe table lamp, which is also by Ligne Roset. Floor-to-ceiling curtaining transforms the living space into a cosy cocoon as required.
The passageway towards the additional bedrooms on the west side of the house is illuminated by a round paper lantern suspended close to the floor.
Yvette says she most likes “to watch the light change through the seasons and wash down the walls from the skylights, to wake up with the sunlight from the vertical slot on the eastern side of the bedroom spreading over the soft curtains and plush carpet... and to read and birdwatch from bed with a view over the harbour and mountains”.
This page: Luxuriously minimalist, the main bedroom features plush carpeting and a beautiful marble-clad storage unit. Circular and oval elements, both structural and in the form of fixtures and furnishings, soften and complement the more angular elements of the design. A classic Componibili storage unit makes an ideal bedside pedestal.
Right page: The mosaic tiles in the main bathroom are the same shade of green as the leaves of the indigenous milkwood trees to be found at the rear of the house – and all along the Western Cape coastline. The bathroom has a charmingly retro feel that is reminiscent of mid-century public baths or swimming pools, with the use of floorto-ceiling mosaic tiles resulting in the creation of fully “wet” rooms.
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Left page: Contrasting textures and colours enliven the home’s entryway, which features a pebbled floor and double front doors painted in Lapis Blue along with a blue Panton Flowerpot Pendant suspended light.
This page: In the guest bedroom, the wooden bed is dressed in shades of soft ochre and dusty pink as well as a Maja Malević blanket from Something Good Studio.
Cavit+Co Tomales Triple Pendant by Jonathan Browning, McGuire Furniture
Radiant Vase Polished Citrine
Outdoor Plateau Armless Slipper Chair by McGuire
Cavit+Co Paulistano Chair from Objekto
Corvo
Nestled within a sympathetically landscaped coastal environment above Nelson’s iconic waterfront, this remarkable residence offers a rare blend of architectural elegance and coastal comfort.
Designed by renowned architect lan Cumberbatch, the 2000s renovation transforms this home into a stunning example of Kiwi harbourside living.
With immediate, panoramic views over the sparkling waters of Nelson’s harbour and bay, this property captures the very essence of the region’s natural beauty. Every room is thoughtfully designed to embrace its coastal setting, where each window frames a picturesque scene of the bay, and the architecture enhances rather than competes with its surroundings.
This is more than just a home; it’s an invitation to experience Nelson at its finest. A perfect balance of design and nature, where the elegance of the built environment complements the relaxed, tranquil lifestyle of the coast.
Caroline Fletcher caroline.fletcher@harcourts.co.nz 027 453 5885
Curtain fabrics and wallcoverings are more than just functional interior design elements – they can also be works of art that bring colour, pattern, and personality into a space. Lahood® Window Furnishing’s latest showroom displays Artistic Expressions feature a captivating collection of textiles and wallpapers inspired by the world of fine art, from delicate watercolours to sculptural forms.
At the heart of the collection is Welbeck by Villa Nova, an ethereal cotton sheer with a design derived from a pastel drawing by UK ceramic artist Kyra Cane. Depicting the rolling landscapes of Welbeck Estate, this design preserves the artist’s expressive strokes, creating a sense of movement and depth. The wide-width sheer flows gracefully, adding an effortless elegance to any interior.
For those seeking a bold statement, Figura Mehndi fabric and wallcovering from Romo offers a contemporary take on the female form. Inspired by abstract sculpture, its undulating design is printed on linen with the fabric and a finely woven fabric for the wallpaper, with a subtle metallic backing those
shimmers in changing light bringing a dynamic, artistic touch to any room.
The collection also features Jardin D’Este by Casamance, a 100% linen sheer that captures the delicate washes and soft brushstrokes of watercolour paintings, while the linenpolyester sheer, Monet by Jab, brings the vibrancy of impressionist art with its rich colours and expressive, dynamic textures.
To celebrate Artistic Expressions, Lahood has partnered with Mount Eden’s Mobile Art Gallery to showcase a selection of works by New Zealand artists, all carefully curated to echo and complement the colours and design of the fabric and wall coverings featured in the displays.
Explore Lahood’s Artistic Expressions at their showroom, located at 104 Mount Eden Road. If you prefer to browse from home, then simply fill out an online form at lahood.co.nz , and their consultants will bring stunning samples from the beautiful displays to you.
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For over 40 years Lahood has been the name behind transformational window furnishing solutions. Lahood combines their expertise in design, colour and texture to transform rooms, create mood and enhance people’s lives with a touch of elegance.
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WORDS PAUL LEUSCHKE
When the economy is good no one cares about cost. Work’s going well, house is increasing in value, money flows. But as soon as the economy tanks, cost is everything.
At these times the right advice is critical. But not all consultants are equal or appropriate for a project. An architect who designs one-off houses may not be appropriate to design an apartment building. Different skills are required for different project types.
It's important you find out if they have undertaken your type of project before and if the outcome was successful – if the clients were happy with the outcome and service.
Age and experience also play a part. I remember a house on a corner site came up for sale. It was obvious the original twostorey villa had in the past sold off its front lawn. Due to the contour and narrowness of the site for sale, any new house would need to exceed the allowed height rule to maximise the harbour views, the site’s main appeal. I walked away.
The site was sold, a young architect engaged and, apparently, he designed a lovely house for the excited clients – the only issue being the neighbours refused to give permission to break the height rule which would have blocked their harbour views.
The clients were very upset, the whole process a waste of time and money. You want an architect to give you unbiased advice even if you don't want to hear it. At present, it's the time and cost to get a project through council and construction costs. You need an architect to protect you, the client, from yourself.
I had a client who requested me to keep her new house on budget. When it came to kitchen and bathroom finishes, she said she didn't need our help. She regretted that decision as she told me she had gone considerably over budget. She had gone for the higher option on all finishes without adding up the final cost – 10% on a single must-have item is okay, but 10% on the whole kitchen can be considerable.
paul@leuschkekahn.co.nz
021 894 895 leuschkekahn.co.nz
Unlock the full potential of your property with a smart subdivision. Whether you’re dreaming of a brand-new home tailored to your lifestyle or looking to create a valuable investment for your future, now is the perfect time to build. With increased land value and expert guidance from our award-winning team, subdividing can turn your backyard into your biggest asset. From feasibility to flawless design and construction, we’ll navigate the entire process with you—maximising your space, returns and possibilities. Ready to make the most of what you already own? Let’s chat.
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At Continuous Group, we're all about rainwater systems.
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Our systems aren't like Lego pieces that snap together, our installers draw on decades of experience across thousands of jobs to ensure the installation is
done right first time, and don’t settle for anything less. Choose from a range of painted coil or lifelong copper, using Continuous Spouting for your next respout or new build project will ensure a rainwater system that is not only functional but meets even the most complex of designs.
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Having established NZ Living – which was one of the country's largest KiwiBuild builders – Shane and Anna Brealey were looking for a chance to give back at scale.
The opportunity took the shape of Simplicity Living – a build-to-rent property company which is 100% owned by Simplicity’s Property Fund and funded by investment from the Simplicity KiwiSaver and Investment Funds Schemes.
“Simplicity was looking for housing sector investments which would generate fair returns for members, and have a meaningful impact on the NZ rental housing supply, a benefit for all Kiwis,” Simplicity Living Limited director, Sam Stubbs, tells Verve. “So, Shane and Anna’s peerless talent and experience, and investment sourced from our Simplicity's funds, was an awesome match.”
How does Simplicity Living’s approach differ from traditional rental property ownership?
We build faster, cheaper and better, in a way that’s designed to give a great tenant experience for the next 100-plus years. Our homes are built of brick, concrete, steel, glass and aluminium. They look great, are warm and dry, and designed to stand the test of time. We spend extra on benefits like taller ceilings, more storage, bike parks, electric chargers, residents’ lounges, heat pumps, extensive landscaping and more. We want tenants to stay for life.
What are the long-term goals for Simplicity Living?
We’re aiming to provide 10,000 longterm rental homes nationwide. We’ve made a good start, with 210 completed and rented, 622 in build, and 256 in development. And we want to own and operate our rental with our own staff,
forever. It’s a long-term, large-scale business designed for a better future.
What kind of returns can investors expect from this model?
Most of Simplicity’s KiwiSaver and Investment funds have a small allocation to our Property Fund, which is a 100% shareholder in Simplicity Living Limited. These allocations are not particularly large at the fund level, but really add up to a lot for Simplicity Living. The Property Fund, through its investment in Simplicity Living, aims to beat the Auckland House Price Index and has a targeted return on completed properties of five-year rolling NZ CPI plus 3%.
How do you ensure rental properties remain both high quality and affordable while maintaining financial sustainability?
That is essential for us, and key to this is owning and managing them ourselves. Rental developments can be awesome places to live – or become slums if poorly managed. From overseas we’ve learned that it’s really important to have a developer and owner-operator with longterm views.
Can Build to Rent be a solution to the housing crisis?
It’s a solution, but not the solution. It provides another attractive alternative, just as it has overseas. It’s not for everyone, but 42% of OECD citizens live in apartments, versus 4% of New Zealanders. We think more will choose the option when they have positive experiences.
How do you ensure homes remain affordable?
Simplicity Living aims to match or beat comparable rents in the areas they are building in, at a superior quality. Ultimately, renting a home long term needs to be fair for all.
What challenges have you faced?
Many! To make this work, it needs great people, stable funding, and time. Thankfully we have all three, which is what makes it both a good investment and great for tenants. It’s a real win-win.
Visit simplicityliving.kiwi for more information.
Dr Elizabeth Kim talks to Verve about perfecting the smile.
Tell us about your business, Re-Dental Clinic
At Re-Dental, we see oral wellness as an essential part of selfcare. A healthy, beautiful smile affects how you feel, how you speak, and how you enjoy life. Caring for your teeth should be as natural as any other self-care habit. Whether you need a routine checkup to keep your teeth strong, aligners for a straighter smile, a full smile makeover to help you feel your best, or dental implants to restore function and bring back the joy of biting into your favourite steak, our comprehensive approach ensures you receive the best care in a calm, stress-free environment.
What makes Re-Dental different?
We go beyond fixing teeth. We want to create an experience that makes patients feel genuinely good about their dental care. Many people come to us feeling unsure, so we take the time to listen, explain every option clearly, and ensure they feel in control. No rushed appointments, no quick fix, just thoughtful, personalised care designed around what is best for you. It's the smallest details that make the biggest difference. A painless injection you barely notice, a gentle clean that feels refreshing, or simply getting lost in Netflix with noisecancelling headphones while we take care of everything. These little things add up, turning dentistry from something clinical into something that feels more like selfcare. Surprisingly, some of our patients find their cleanings therapeutic – some have even fallen asleep in the chair!
What motivated you to start your own business?
I've heard it time and time again: "I hate the dentist." And I completely understand. For many, just booking an appointment takes courage. I wanted to change that. I wanted to create a warm environment where people feel comfortable enough to come back, where trust grows, and where every visit feels just a little better than the last – maybe even a little enjoyable.
Even if I can't make you love the dentist, I hope to make it ‘somewhat okay-ish’! Enough that you leave feeling better than when you walked in, and feel at ease coming back, just like you would for a haircut or a spa day.
Any advice for other women in the dental industry? Dentistry is a balance of precision, artistry, and compassion. Every filling, veneer, and implant requires precision, an eye for detail, and a commitment to excellence. But dentistry is about more than skill, it's about connection. Patients remember how you made them feel just as much as the quality of the work you provide.
For women in the field, your ability to connect, listen, and lead with empathy is a powerful strength. Technical skills are important, but trust, communication, and creating an environment where patients feel genuinely cared for are just as valuable.
So, stay committed to learning, trust your instincts, and know that your work goes beyond fixing teeth. You are helping people feel confident in themselves – and that's what truly makes this profession rewarding.
Book online, call 09 600 1739 or email info@re-dental.co.nz
While we celebrate autumn’s abundance, the cooler temperatures it brings can cause low energy, mood dips, or seasonal affective disorder. Here are some suggestions for mindful practices.
Sipping a warm, spiced tea while listening to soft music helps your body relax. In autumn, it’s good to switch to warming herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric. These support digestion, circulation and the immune system.
Your health depends on maintaining a balanced diet including plenty of fresh seasonal produce – and autumn delivers in abundance. As well as apples and pears you can enjoy feijoas (their high levels of vitamin C support your immune system), persimmons, kiwifruit, grapes and quince. As for vegetables, carrots,
parsnips, beetroot, kumara and squash are all rich in vitamins and ideal for soups, roasts, and stews.
Gentle yoga, breathwork, or walking in nature can help you stay centred and present. Aromatherapy comes into its own in autumn, also.
Treat yourself to a hydrating bath to soothe dry skin and relax your muscles. It will promote relaxation, of course, and improve your circulation.
A massage with warm oil will help your body retain moisture, calm your nervous system, and protect you against dryness.
While the autumn sun may be weaker skin protection is still critical as UV exposure is still a threat. Keep sunscreen in your daily routine.
Skin Institute located on beautiful Waiheke Island, approximately 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland, offers a comprehensive range of specialist, cosmetic services and treatments within the Skin Cancer, Appearance Medicine and Beauty Therapy categories. Appointments available now—book your consultation today.
skininstitute.co.nz
Autumn’s lower temperatures often make your hands colder, your joints stiffer and your circulation more sluggish. That’s when Thai massage is particularly beneficial because it warms, balances, and grounds the body. Or you may prefer an aromatherapy massage, which will support better sleep and help you manage stress and fatigue.
I do hope you take time to adopt and enjoy your autumn self-care routines.
Sarisa
Nordic Walking is a fitness activity which uses specifically designed poles to enhance and intensify the natural way of walking. It’s essential to learn the correct technique, as the well-performed Nordic Walking action incorporates the upper body, improves posture and engages 90% of muscles, giving a ‘total body workout’.
nordicwalking.co.nz
Many of you remember Nurse Olya from her time working at Clinic 42 and some of you have even been lucky enough to book an appointment with her here at Clinic 42 in Epsom this year as she patiently waited for the new clinic to be ready.
The wait is over! Nurse Olya will be moving to the new Clinic 4O2 (that’s O for Olya) in Takanini Village Shopping Centre this April.
Doctors Ellen, Lynn and Joanna are thrilled to be able to join together with Nurse Olya once again to bring Clinic 42’s personalised approach to cosmetic medicine in a second Auckland location.
This means that all the treatments that you have visited Olya for either at Clinic 42, or more recently at Pukekohe, or on the North Shore will now be available at Takanini.
Nurse Erin – who some patients may also know from Alainn in Clevedon – has been working in in our Epsom practice for several years and will be joining Olya from time to time, along with some of our other staff.
Doctors Lynn, Joanna and Ellen will also be attending regular clinics (or “making guest appearances” as we like to call it, so much more glamorous!) to carry out some of the more specialised treatments such as Belkyra, mole removal, and to hold weight management clinics.
Clinic 4O2 will have some of the latest equipment available, including the Venus Pro MD and Venus Glow, along with the already immensely popular Emsella, Emface and Emsculpt which works via muscle conditioning to improve pelvic floor and core as well as improved face and body contouring.
Takanini is a thriving and rapidly growing hub nestled between Manurewa, Papakura and the Hunua Ranges Regional Park. Home to over 175,000 locals; 78,000 in the direct Takanini neighbourhood and another 97,000 in Papakura and the surrounding areas.
The people of South Auckland can now experience the bespoke personalised care that Clinic 42 and Clinic 4O2 can provide and treatments to address issues such as: fi ne lines and wrinkles · facial volume loss
skin rejuvenation and hydration intimate wellness acne and pigmentation
· excessive sweating redness and sun damage u nwanted hair and scarring
This collaboration of experience, expertise and ideas was an obvious solution with the doctors and Nurse Olya having worked together so successfully in the past and with both parties finding themselves wanting to expand and needing to find new premises.
Olya is passionate about combining cosmeceutical skincare, machine-based technology and injectables to deliver the best possible results.
Clinic 4O2 is located upstairs from the Coffee Club at Takanini Town Centre. If you would like more information or to make an appointment phone 0508 402402 or visit clinic4o2.co.nz
The multi-award-winning artisan range is famed for its well-rounded profiles that complement a variety of mixers, its versatility enhancing both classic and creative cocktails. Our current favourite from this cool Kiwi brand is the lemongrass- and lemon verbenainfused Maia, a zingy gin that pairs perfectly with Kwai Feh Lychee Liqueur for a well-balanced original take on the Lychee Martini.
Or, better yet, elevate it to the next level by converting the cocktail into a slushi!
The good folk at Juno have announced an ice-cool collaboration with Ninja SLUSHi, and we have one of the frozen drink makers to give away to one lucky reader. Head to the Verve website to enter.
And in the meantime, here’s that recipe…
MAIA – LYCHEE SLUSHI (for 3-4 serves)
225ml sparkling water
400ml Lemonade
125ml Maia Gin
40ml Lychee
A pinch of salt
Ninja SLUSHi Frozen Drink Maker
Simply pour in the ingredients and select one of the five preset programmes – Slush, Spiked Slush, Frappé, Milkshake, or Frozen Juice – then watch your drink transform in as little as 60 minutes.
A self-serve handle and no-drip spout make pouring a breeze, while the easy-fill vessel is simple to clean and keeps drinks frozen for up to 12 hours. Whether it’s frosé, frozen margs, frozen cola, or even frozen sports or health drinks, with Ninja, you can make it!
Be one of the first to try it at Gindulgence Auckland, 2 & 3 May.
Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL gives his views on two appealing wines.
For almost two centuries Mumm has been crafting exceptional sparkling wines. Famous for its champagne, Mumm can be found on the tables of royalty and fine dining restaurants. Established in 1827, Mumm Champagne House in Reims is the birthplace of champagne.
Conversely, Church Road was made famous by the larger-thanlife Tom McDonald who in 1949 released the country’s first cabernet sauvignon. Today, Chis Scott winemaker continues to oversee the introduction of numerous award-winning varietals, one of which is pinot noir.
These two double delights will not disappoint…
Mumm Marlborough Brut Prestige; RRP $45.
A crafted balance of fragrance and aromas combined with fresh citrus and a pleasing soft mouth finish on the palette. The perfect option for any celebration. Pair with seafood, sushi, and leafy salads.
’22 Church Road McDonald Series pinot noir; RRP $29.
This easy-drinking, well-rounded wine is full and bright, showing plenty of backbone of flavours, aromas and loads of charm. Best served with roast beef, chicken, pork, duck, and casseroles.
DENNIS and ROSAMUND KNILL
Located on some of Auckland’s most prestigious harbourside real estate, the confidence displayed by this bustling city restaurant Soul Bar and Bistro belies its tender years.
Whether it’s the buzz on the front terrace or the more formal dining room situated at the rear, our previous dining experiences here have always been a joy. The artful menu is still everything you would expect restaurant food to be, the waiters are switched on and cheerful and the global wine list is studded with strong curiosities with ample drops by the glass. When combined with a package of imaginative and contemporary fare, this one-time Judith Tabron eatery should be a headline grabber.
Snacks and starters include oysters (from $7 each); mozzarella toast ($13); smoked trevally toast ($16); beef tartare ($18); prosciutto ($26); salt and pepper squid ($28); tuna crudo ($29); tiger prawns ($30); scampi cocktail ($34); and whitebait fritters ($36). From the kitchen the chefs send out a smart range of mains: salads (from $26); pasta and risotto classics (from $35); skewers ($13); and fish, meat and poultry dishes (from $36). Sides start from $14.
To finish, choose from sweet pleasures of chocolate pudding ($21); cream brulee ($19); Eton mess ($19); honey cake ($19); or ice cream and sorbets ($16).
And the verdict? While many things have not changed at Soul, on the day our meals did not quite hit the mark, the setting was more special than the food. But for all that, whether it’s lunch out on the terrace on a bright summer’s day or dining out with the stars, the atmosphere and surroundings, while watching the world pass by, will not disappoint. And what a difference professional floor staff make, with energy and bustle as vigorous as ever.
Menu: 9; cuisine: 7.5; wine list: 9.5; service: 8.5; decor: 8; value for money: 7.5
Soul Bar and Bistro, Viaduct Harbour; 09 356 7249; soulbar.co.nz
With China watching closely, Macau is performing a delicate dance between its longstanding Portuguese roots and its 21st-century casinos. Their biggest game now is getting the balance right…
In the area known as Taipa, near the Macanese version of the Vegas “Strip”, two young Chinese women squeal with excitement atop a 60m-high tower. Nine stories up, they’re about to do the most thrilling thing they’re possibly likely to ever experience.
“Don’t look down,” the friendly Zipcity manager advises,,. but these women don’t seem at all nervous. “ Zou ba! (Let’s go!)” they shout. Upon release, they race 55km/h across a 388m-long zipline towards a distant tower. Halfway, one whips out a selfie stick, smiles euphorically, holds up two fingers, and twirls, nearly 60m in the air. Macau – and even China – unfurl in all their current glory and future potential as far as her eyes (and selfie stick) can see.
“Macau’s come a long way,” says Jason Budovitch, who along with business partner Scott Davies, co-founded Zipcity at the request of SJM Resorts.. Over several years, the duo utilised the services of the world’s top bridge engineers and a top French lighting company to ensure complete safety and, at night, more excitement, for what they claim is the only urban zipline in Asia.
“There’s some amazing properties here,” Budovitch continues. “The Macau – and Chinese – governments are right in that it does need to be more than a gaming destination. Families need to look at it and think about water parks, ziplines, go-karting, and hiking,, and not even think about a casino table.”
For decades, Macau was seen as a unique getaway for Hong Kong residents wanting to briefly swap their breakneck daily lives for the slower pace of the former Portuguese trading post (dating back to 1557). By and large, there were two ways to get there: a one-hour Turbojet ferry, or for those feeling
flush, a 15-minute helicopter ride. Time spent in the 120sq-km territory was like entering an exotic blend of Asia, Europe, and something else…
“It had all that grittiness and charm and wild west kind of vibes,” says Budovitch, a Hong Kong resident for over three decades. At the time, hotels like The Mandarin, the historic, fortress-like Pousada Di Sao Tiago, and the Westin Resort were the places to stay for jetsetters with a bit of cash. And for fun, everyone would inevitably end up at the famed Lisboa Casino, founded and owned by Hong Kong and Macau billionaire Stanley Ho, who won the territory’s casino license in 1961. As one of the only places to gamble in town, tourists gawked at the old men playing Fan-Tan and Baccarat while smoking up a storm. Meanwhile, outside, men and women alike were often mesmerised by the ladies of the night who paraded like clockwork around the hotel lobby, heels clicking in sync across the hard marble floor.
Macau was – and still is – also popular for its distinct Portuguese cuisine as many restaurants showcased a homey atmosphere, good service, and family recipes like Caldo Verde soup, African Chicken, and Portuguese salt cod. One popular evergreen destination for locals and expats alike has always been the open-aired hideaway Fernando’s, on Hac Sa Beach. “Beyond the casinos, for me, it’s about the Macanese food,” says Budovitch. “Fernando’s, for example, is exactly the same, and I think the guy that runs it is the son of the two brothers who were there all the time. One time I didn’t have any cash – they don’t take credit cards – and the guy said ‘Just send me a cheque’. It’s that kind of place.”
But change was certainly in the air once Macau was handed back to China in 1999, marking the end of 442 years of
Portuguese rule. China quickly made plans to integrate the territory by creating an Individual Visit Scheme, which brought in 10 million mainland tourists in one year alone. In a conscious effort to connect what’s known as the “Greater Bay Area”, China also created more ways to get to Macau.
“Now there are at least four borders,” says Vanessa Estorninho, a Macanese native and member of the Media Relations team at the Galaxy Entertainment Group. “In addition to Hong Kong, you can travel by car across the Zhuhai-Hong Kong-Macau bridge, there’s the Zhuhai border gate, the Lotus Bridge, and the Qingmao Port.”
Originally only accessible by three bridges, Taipa was always Macau’s sleepy cousin. It housed (and still does) a quaint village with cobblestone streets, a university, and sprawling marshland. That is, until Las Vegas tycoon Sheldon Adelson was permitted to build a casino on the reclaimed land of Cotai The Venetian, the world’s largest casino, which also includes 3,000 suites and a 15,000-seat arena.
In a bid to compete, an ageing Stanley Ho built the oddly shaped, gold-clad Grand Lisboa in Macau, to this day a selfie favourite. But by and large, out went bets on horse and greyhound racing, and in came a new variety of tycoons who were moving in and taking over. Today, a casual stroll down The Strip in Cotai reveals such marvels as a miniature Eiffel Tower (The Parisien), an ode to London (The Londoner), incredible attempts at futuristic architecture (City of Dreams, Studio City, The Morpheus), and of course, Wynn Macau. During the day,
the sheer building scale impresses, while at night the sparkly lights truly dazzle.
Nearby, in its own self-contained, growing area, lies Galaxy Macau, 1.1 million square metres of unforgettable hotels, venues, and attractions so gargantuan, that one can easily get lost – and many do. If the endless casinos don’t overwhelm, then the 120 restaurants, 200 shops, Skytop Adventure Rapids, Broadway theatre, and Macau’s largest indoor arena might. Not impressed? Well, their newly opened Convention Center could persuade. Still not convinced? They’ve just opened two new hotels featuring sumptuous rooms – Raffles and The Andaz Macau. And five more are already built and on the verge of opening, including the Capella, which will reportedly have an indoor swimming pool… in every room suite. If Macau wants to be perceived as a global destination in its own right, then the Galaxy Entertainment Group is leading the way, providing inspiration and balance to all the other players trying to do the same.
Within The Andaz Macau lies Andaz Kitchen, the hotel’s sole restaurant, where executive chef Andre Lai is not only overseeing staff in the open-aired facility but testing out the upcoming Spring menu as well. A nine-year resident of the territory, and hailing from Portugal, many of his dishes are homages to his parents, also chefs. One memorable new entree features a blend of tender octopus, brussel sprouts, mashed potatoes, garlic, and olive oil. “It’s a small city – yes – but let’s not forget that the Portuguese shrunk the world in the 16th century,” says Lai proudly. “Here I’m a step away from anywhere and there are always new things to discover – nuances.”
That feeling seems to be pervasive amongst many expats and transplants. At the award-winning new restaurant Teppanyaki Shou, personal chefs prepare exquisite eight-course Japanese meals combined with exclusive sake. A Korean hostess from Busan reveals that she loves to “walk around Old Taipa, where you get a real blend of Eastern and European cultures”. And behind a dark, secretive corridor at Raffles lies Long Bar, an intimate new hideaway where DJ Jo P, an American from Indiana, plays a wide assortment of 70s tunes on vinyl while thinking about an upcoming US trip. “When I go back, I have no idea how much I’ll miss this place. There’s a great vibe here.”
In terms of gambling, Macau has a way to go before it truly matches Las Vegas. Firstly, they could do with more cabs and transportation. And unlike Vegas, the endless Cotai strip is void of attractions on the sidewalks, almost as if the individual hotels don’t want you to leave their confines (which they probably don’t – but should change for the greater good). Minimum casino bets have also become more expensive – US$65-125 is the average starting hand – intimidating for casual gamblers.
This may also be where Macau is headed: less of a gambling mecca and more of a vacation destination.
A short walk from most hotels – and within sight of The Venetian (the North Star of Cotai) - lies the Light Railway Train. After years of delays, the twocar train makes a circular route around Taipa, before heading to its sole Macau stop in an area known as Barra. If one feels fit, one could stroll along Nam Van Lake, and past the classic local restaurant Henry’s African, where two locals might be found casually smoking cigars outside while sharing a bottle of port.
Then, it’s a brief distance to Unescolisted Senado Square where locals and tourists shop and eat amidst vividly coloured historic buildings. This gives way to more crowds and more places to eat (Macanese ice cream, dried beef, noodles, Matcha cones) before heading up the classic 1,2… 66 steps to Macau’s most iconic landmark, the Ruins of St. Paul’s. So unique, it’s one of Portugal’s “Seven Wonders of the World”, the nearly 400-year structure is Macau in a nutshell. Almost better, a glimpse down the hill reveals slices of old and new Macau, as well as alleyways darting in any number of tantalising directions.
With the words of a Russian hostess at Long Bar ringing in the ears, there’s just one place left to explore for the full Macau experience. “There’s the old Macau, which is the main island,” she says while offering homemade gin cocktails. “There’s Taipa, which is the
new. And if you want to get away from it all, there’s Coloane.” Getting to Coloane requires a lengthy (albeit cheap) bus ride, during which one sees nearly every aspect of the city, before being dropped off in front of the legendary Lord Stowe’s bakery. Named after the British expat Andrew Stowe, who perfected the creamy Portuguese egg tart, the corner bakery is still just as charming and winsome as it was back in 1989 (albeit more expensive). From there, one can venture towards the pier and the fishmongers drying fish in one direction, or casually walk past the quaint openaired restaurants, coffee, and homemade ice cream shops in the other. Or better yet, grab something from everywhere and sit on a bench along the water.
At the Galaxy Arena, Jisoo from the Korean K-pop band Blackpink is about to perform for thousands of fans. Across many other venues, casinos are buzzing with the sounds of anticipation. And here, in Coloane, as the sun goes down, you can gaze in peaceful wonderment across the Pearl River estuary at Henqqin, which has morphed in two decades from a dark, mysterious nothingness into a major Free Trade Zone with skyscrapers and buildings galore.
“The air is fresh, it’s laidback, and it’s a totally different vibe,” says the hostess. And darn, she’s right.
Paul Dymond, managing director of
travel experts Wendy Wu Tours , shares his hot tips for travelling around incredible China.
What are some must-visit destinations for a first-time visitor to China?
China has so much to offer! A lot depends on travellers’ interests, but no one wants to miss the Great Wall, Forbidden City in Beijing, Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, pandas in Chengdu, a cruise down the Yangtze river, and the futuristicyet-historic city of Shanghai.
And less obvious ones?
I would definitely suggest heading to Zhangjiajie to see the mountains that inspired the backdrop of the Avatar movies. The Hanging Temple and Buddhist Grottos near the city of Datong are truly spectacular – as is the Nine Villages Valley national park.
Is there a best time to visit?
China is an all-year destination but is very hot in summer and very cold in winter, so the most popular time for touring is April to June and September and October. The adventurous can brave the cold and head up to the amazing Ice Festival in Harbin that opens just before Christmas and runs to midFebruary, every year.
What’s the best way to get around?
China has one of the best transport systems in the world. The network of bullet trains is the best way to get from city to city, for longer distances the fleet of domestic airlines is convenient. My favourite travel option is to board a cruise ship along the majestic Yangtze River, you get to see stunning landscapes, brand new cities, as well as ancient towns and temples.
Any key cultural customs or etiquette tips that travellers should be aware of?
Try to remember to do a slight bow, as a greeting, especially for older people. Never publicly criticise or embarrass anyone, so you ‘save face’ of that person. Try to accept anything with both hands. Never accept a gift on the first offer. Also, slurping your soup loudly is a sign of appreciation for the food!
What are some of the best regional cuisines?
In general, the further south you go, the spicier the food. Noodles and dumplings are very regional. Mongolian-influenced hot pots are well worth trying and a great way for a group to have a shared dining experience.
Your top three all-time favourite dishes?
Spicy kung pao chicken – originally from the Sichuan province; soup dumplings – originally from the Jiangsu province; and Peking duck – originally a meal for royalty and the elite.
What’s a unique cultural experience that most tourists miss?
If you only visit big cities, you miss out seeing unique traditional farming like the use of buffalo or the old fishing methods. There are also many festivals that happen in spring and autumn in rural areas where you see locals in traditional clothes enjoying traditional dancing and games.
Anything about holidaying in China that many tourists are often surprised to learn?
China is easy to travel to now, with up to 30 days visa-free travel for Kiwis. China is very advanced in many things and has embraced digitalisation of payments. The best thing to do before you go to is to set up WeChat or Alipay as a payment method, as this is much more convenient than trying to find places that accept credit cards or cash. To access Google, Facebook and Instagram, you need to be on roaming, as local internet blocks these. China is very welcoming to tourists, with plenty to appeal to every age group.
For more information on China and Wendy Wu Tours' unique itineraries, visit wendywutours.co.nz
17 day fully inclusive Classic Tour
Explore China’s biggest and best cities and sights, including the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, giant pandas, a cruise on the Yangtze and the bright lights of Shanghai. Then, for some extra spectacular, we’ve thrown in the magical landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Park.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• Walk on the Great Wall
• Face the Terracotta Army
• Travel on a bullet train
•Cruise the mighty Yangtze
•Explore spectacular Zhangjiajie
• Visit cosmopolitan Shanghai
18 day Go Beyond Tour
Take the world’s highest railway journey to reach the ‘roof of the world’ where you’ll be immersed in the epic landscapes and spirituality of Tibet. Much of this tour is spent at altitude, including the experience of a lifetime – a visit to Everest Base Camp.
• Face the Terracotta Warriors • Wander the Barkhor circuit
• Watch monks debate at Sera
•Cross the Tibetan Plateau
•Witness sunrise over Mt Everest
•Explore magnificent Potala Palace
27 day fully inclusive Classic Tour
This journey has all of China’s top destinations covered, with time to soak up the sights.
Whether you are looking for history, character and culture or the modern and marvellous, this itinerary has it all.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
•Walk on the Great Wall
•Watch giant pandas play
•Stay in rural Yangshuo
•Cruise the Yangtze River
•Discover old China in Dali
•Stroll the gardens of Suzhou
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21 day fully inclusive Classic Tour
The ultimate tour for those wishing to combine the very best of two ancient nations. Join us on an incredible journey from Beijing to Tokyo by road, boat, rail and air on this epic tour!
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
•Discover historic Beijing
•Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors
•Admire Shanghai’s bright lights
•Reflect in Hiroshima
•Admire Kyoto’s temples
•Explore bustling Tokyo
Designed by Kelly Hoppen
Kelly Hoppen’s design for this Michelin-starred Beijing restaurant blends culture, cuisine, and design. It features clean lines, geometric marble, and hidden lighting for a dramatic East-meetsWest ambiance. Some of its seven individually designed rooms are seen here.
Left : Guests are welcomed by a striking reception desk resembling natural cut stone, clad in luxurious polished metal. The starburstpatterned marble flooring directs them toward an organic spiral staircase enclosed in dramatic smoked glass. At its centre, a cascading glass and metal chandelier, inspired by traditional Chinese roof shapes, adds a breathtaking touch.
Above : Bold Chinese red makes a statement throughout the space, appearing in rich velvet upholstery, artwork, and lacquered wardrobe joinery with traditional detailing. Custom Kelly Hoppen pendants in matt black and alabaster marble hang above the dining table, while soft curves on the walls add contrast to the hard finishes.
Left : This room embodies Kelly Hoppen’s classic modern style, layering warm neutrals in timber and soft furnishings. A cascading crystal chandelier, taupe velvet details, and sleek silver accents create a luxurious balance, while rattan joinery nods to traditional Chinese baskets.
Above : Blue accents in the furnishings and artwork reflect the rich royal blue associated with the royal family. A striking chandelier of luxurious glass rods, inspired by traditional Chinese dragon movements, highlights the main bar. Behind it, an embossed metal feature with a classic Chinese cloud pattern symbolises peace.
More than simply a tool for eating, chopsticks are a symbol of culture and tradition across much of Asia. We examine how they came to be, and then came to be embraced…
The Unesco-listed Yin XU is among China’s – and the world’s – oldest and largest archaeological sites. The ancient capital, around 500km south of Beijing, is not only home to some of the earliest examples of Chinese writing, but the earliest known chopsticks, made from bronze and capable of reaching into hot pots of water or oil (the first ever chopsticks were likely far less robust, made from twigs). The were dated to around 1200 BC.
However, it wasn’t until around 400 AD that the wider population embraced eating with the utensils. This was significantly driven by a population boom that meant less resources, compelling cooks to find ways to cut costs. One way was to cut food into smaller pieces so that it needed less fuel to cook – the bite-sized chunks were ideal for chopsticks.
The spread of Confucianism also contributed to the rise of chopsticks’ popularity – and a rejection of the knife as an eating utensil. The pacificist philosopher was also a vegetarian and argued that using knives at the dinner table would be too evocative of the slaughterhouse, not to mention their general association with violence and warfare. As Confucius’s teachings spread around Aisa, so too did chopsticks.
By 1000 AD, chopsticks were well entrenched within the cultures of Japan, Vietnam and Korea (contrary to popular belief, Thais generally don’t use chopsticks). Originally chopsticks were first made from bamboo in Japan and only used for religious ceremonies. They were also joined at the top, like tweezers.
There have been various superstitions associated with chopsticks throughout history such as they should only be used in the right hand and should never be used to serve sushi. In Ancient China, it was believed that silver chopsticks would turn black if they touched poison – a misconception that possibly stems from silver sometimes changing colour if it comes into contact with hydrogen sulphide, which is released by onions, garlic, and rotten eggs. An old Korean belied is that the closer to the tip you hold the chopsticks, the longer you will stay unmarried, while others say that an uneven pair of chopsticks signals that you will miss a boat or flight.
PREPARATION TIME: 10 minutes, plus 10 minutes marinating time
INGREDIENTS
450g chicken pieces
½ tablespoon light soy sauce
½ teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon shaoxing wine
2 tablespoon vegetable oil
¼ teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour)
¼ teaspoon salt
½ tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
6 shallots, halved
1 large red chilli, roughly chopped
1 green chili, roughly chopped
4 spring onions, stems only, cut into 4cm lengths, plus extra to garnish
¼ teaspoon sesame oil
Steamed rice, to serve
C OOKING TIME: 10 minutes
SERVES: 4
Recipes from China: The Cookbook by Kei Lum Chan and Diora Fong Chan, published by Phaidon, phaidon.com . $80.
METHOD
Rinse the chicken in cold water and cut it into bite-size chunks. Combine the chicken, soy sauce, ¼ teaspoon sugar, ½ teaspoon wine, ½ tablespoon vegetable oil, cornflour, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside and marinate for 10 minutes.
Combine the black beans, garlic, ¼ teaspoon sugar, and ½ tablespoon vegetable oil in a bowl and mix well.
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium high heat, add the shallots, and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken and stir-fry over medium heat for 3 minutes until half cooked. Put the black bean mixture and the chiles on top of chicken.
Do not stir. Sprinkle the remaining ½ teaspoon wine along the inside of the wok, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove the lid, increase to high heat, and stir-fry the ingredients in the wok until the chicken is fully cooked. Toss in the spring onions and sesame oil. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with more scallions, and serve with rice.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DL ACKEN
PREPARATION TIME: 15 minutes plus 20 minutes soaking time
3 dried black mushrooms
1 dried black fungus
1 (800g) carp, cleaned and rinsed
1 teaspoon salt, plus extra to taste
1 tablespoon cornflour
4¼ cups (1 litre) vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 teaspoons grated ginger
150g minced pork
1 tablespoon rice wine
10 pickled red chillies, chopped
2 tablespoons pixian chili bean paste, chopped
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
½–1 tablespoon black or balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon ground white pepper, plus extra to taste
4 spring onions, chopped
1 red chilli, sliced, to garnish (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
C OOKING TIME: 25 minutes
SERVES: 4
Put the mushrooms and black fungus in 2 separate bowls and soak in cold water for at least 20 minutes, or until softened. Remove the mushrooms, squeeze dry, and discard the stems. Dice, then set aside. Tear the black fungus into small pieces.
Meanwhile, use a sharp knife to make 5-6 slashes on each side of the fish. Pat the fish dry using paper towels and sprinkle with the salt. Marinate for 10 minutes. Lightly dredge both sides of the fish with cornflour.
Heat the 4¼ cups (1 litre) oil in a wok or large frying pan to 180°C, or until a cube of bread browns in 30 seconds. Add the fish and deep-fry for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Add the garlic and ginger to the remaining oil in the wok, add pork, and stir-fry over medium heat for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the wine, then stir in the pickled chillies, chilli bean paste, mushrooms, fungus, soy sauce, and sugar. Add 1½ cups (350ml) boiling water and bring to a boil. Add the fish, reduce to medium heat, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes until cooked through. Flip over and cook for another 5 minutes until cooked through. Transfer the fish to a serving plate.
Recipes from China: The Cookbook by Kei Lum Chan and Diora Fong Chan, published by Phaidon, phaidon.com . $80.
Bring the sauce in the wok to a boil. Simmer over medium heat, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has reduced. Finally, stir in the vinegar, white pepper, spring onions, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the fish, garnish with spring onions and red chilli, if using.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DL ACKEN
甜酸排骨
PREPARATION TIME:
10 minutes, plus 10 minutes soaking and 15 minutes marinating time
INGREDIENTS
300g pork spareribs, cut into small chunks
2 cloves garlic, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon rice wine
¼ tablespoon light soy sauce
1 egg, beaten
4 tablespoons gluten-free flour
1 cup (250ml) vegetable oil
½ onion, cut into wedges
½ green bell pepper, seeded and cut into wedges
½ red bell pepper, seeded and cut into wedges
1 (225g) can pineapple, drained and cut into chunks
Ccoriander, to garnish (optional)
Steamed rice, to serve
For the sweet and sour sauce:
4 tablespoons red vinegar
4 tablespoons brown sugar
C OOKING TIME: 15 minutes
Recipes from China: The Cookbook by Kei Lum Chan and Diora Fong Chan, published by Phaidon, phaidon.com . $80.
Soak the spareribs in a large bowl of cold water for 10 minutes, then drain.
Combine the spareribs, garlic, salt, brown sugar, wine, and soy sauce in a large bowl and marinate for 15 minutes. Stir in the egg, add the flour, and mix well so that each sparerib is coated in flour.
To make the sauce, combine all the ingredients and mix until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a wok or deep saucepan to 180°C, or until a cube of bread browns in 30 seconds. Gently lower the spareribs into the oil, in batches, and deep-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the spareribs from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Pour out most of the oil, leaving only 1 tablespoon in the wok. Heat the oil over medium-high heat, add the onion and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until slightly soft. Toss in the bell peppers and the sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the spareribs and toss quickly until each piece is fully coated with the sauce. Stir in the pineapple and heat through, then transfer to a serving plate and garnish with coriander, if using. Serve with rice.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DL ACKEN
Entering is simple. Visit VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ and click WIN then follow the directions. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @vervemagazine . GOOD LUCK!
CM Pottery creates bespoke handmade items and has a mission to inspire creativity in the community. The Clay Kit has been carefully curated to bring creativity to your home. We all lead busy lives, and the air-dry clay kit allows you to slow down, providing an easy, low tox way to create pottery at home. Let yourself unwind and experience the joy of creating something for yourself or a gift for a loved one. cmpotterynz.com
WIN one of two CM Pottery Clay Kits valued at $89.
Summer might be over, but heat ageing-never stops! Protect your skin year-round with Dermalogica's new BioLumin-C Heat Ageing Protector SPF 50, combining the power of Vitamin C, SPF, and Dermalogica's ThermaRadiance Complex to deliver next-level defence.
WIN Dermalogica's BioLumin-C Heat Ageing Protector SPF 50, 50ml, valued at $175.
The award-winning Davines OI Shampoo + Conditioner Range is perfect for all hair types. Formulated with roucou oil, the products give extraordinary shine and softness, which promises to be further enhanced by ghd’s first cordless and portable hair straightener. With up to 20 minutes of continuous styling, touch ups and styling on the go are a breeze!
WIN a ghd and Davines Haircare prize pack with Servilles, valued at over $645.
Shop Davines Haircare Products online at shop.servilles.com or visit Servilles City Works.
There are still places in the world untouched by the footprints of the many - places that are swaddled in the natural world, offering the kindness of food and a return to a life of slow simplicity and adventure. Putiputi iti is one such place.
This luxury waterfront eco-design retreat pays deep homage to the natural world, embracing a slower, more intentional way of life. Nestled on the cusp of the Kaipara Harbour and Tasman Sea, in the wild and untamed region of the Poutō Peninsula, Putiputi iti is set against the backdrop of a working waterfront farm that yearns to be explored.
A humble and rudimentary mid-century fisherman’s shack has been meticulously restored and curated with a sincere environmental conscience, offering guests the luxury needed for a rejuvenating stay. Harvest, forage and cook from the ocean, the estuary and the guest’s garden. Hark yourself back to the simplicity of childhood, a lifelong lorn. Unpretentious retro-glam luxury in a 'Kiwi kool' kind of way.
Instagram: @putiputi.iti putiputiiti.co.nz
tevakaroavillas.com
Winning the prestigious ‘Best South Pacific & Oceania Luxury Architectural Design Hotel’ at the World Travel Awards says it all about the stunning Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga.
From the moment you arrive, a sense of calm descends, and you know that you’re about to experience something special. This boutique resort features just six air-conditioned villas, each thoughtfully designed to blend luxurious comfort with the natural beauty of its surroundings. The gated villas are set directly on the beachfront of Muri Lagoon.
Between your villa’s private balcony or patio and the coral beach, warm lagoon waters, and the distant crashing waves of the reef lies a serene, manicured lawn and a heated infinity pool with a jacuzzi. Open the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, and you’re met with breathtaking Pacific
views. Whether you lounge with a tropical cocktail or sink into the peaceful ambiance, every moment aches with indulgence.
+682 25590 info@tevakaroavillas.com
Embark on a Marlborough adventure with Blenheim Corporate Cars and discover the wonders of this amazing region. Start with your airport transfers, exclusive wine tastings and scenic tours garden visits and art studio explorations, our bespoke services ensure an unforgettable experience. Your Journey. Our Priority. 021 0818 3272 ·
Come cycling in stunning Central Otago. Check-in with the experts, we personalise everything to suit your needs.
Great multiday adventures for everyone. Two day fantastic rides. Long weekends and our awesome One Day Wonders. Now taking bookings for 2025 and 2026.
BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ • INFO@BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ 0800 245 366 NZ freephone
With over 160 Quest Apartment Hotels across New Zealand, Fiji, Australia and the UK, we’re always your home away from home. Whether it’s a business trip or family holiday, our spacious apartments feature separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, full kitchens, and laundry facilities. With flexible stays, friendly housekeeping, and Airpoints™ rewards, we make sure you truly feel at home, no matter how long you stay.
nzbarok.org.nz
Melody, Harmony, and Fire , with Austin Haynes, countertenor Friday, 2 May, 7:30pm | Saturday, 3 May, 2pm & 7:30pm St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Discover the magic of Neapolitan Baroque music! Bursting with melodic invention and delivered with the utmost passion, NZ Barok’s electrifying strings unite with the opulent vocal acrobatics of award-winning countertenor Austin Haynes in this unforgettable musical journey.
Featuring music by rarely heard composers such as Porpora, Durante, Broschi, and Sarro, alongside the more familiar Scarlatti, NZ Barok brings the delights of late Neapolitan Baroque to New Zealand audiences in this very special concert series.
Book your early bird tickets through iTICKET today!
WORDS — KAREN MCMILLAN , bestselling author karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz
Erin Palmisano
Every novel needs a little bit of magic to make it a winner. This one comes with a smattering of magical realism alongside a love story, a tale of friendships, and a healthy portion of Greek food. Who could resist such a delicious mixture? This novel celebrates the wonder of living as the central characters overcome loss in many forms.
Moa Press, RRP $36.99
Sherryl Clark
Lou Alcott used to be in the police force but now is a private investigator. Trying to help at-risk women, she finds herself embroiled in two cases at once. Lou is a perfectly written, strong female lead with a rather edgy problem. Her grandfather is Melbourne’s biggest crime boss, while her father has a senior position in the police force. Compelling from start to finish.
HQ Fiction, RRP $36.99
Catherine Lea
DI Nyree Bradshaw returns to investigate the killings of two down-on-their luck women found in a hoarder’s house in rural Northland. As a crime procedural, it ticks all the boxes, and Lea sympathetically examines what the hunt for justice could cost Nyree, who finds her commitment to her work at odds with the new responsibilities of her personal life. Excellent characters and a page-turning plot.
Bateman Books, RRP $36.95
Tina Shaw
The doctor is concerned Maxine has early-onset dementia. Her daughter Rose has a recurring memory of a locked cupboard. When they return to their old family home in Kutarere, secrets from many years ago surprise them both, and they learn that their memories may not always be reliable. This is an absorbing, haunting novel, beautifully and sensitively written with compelling characters.
Text, RRP $37.99
An art lover’s éclat du jour, the Aotearoa Art Fair is the perfect destination for discovering and collecting modern and contemporary art.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, an occasional buyer, or simply curious about the art world, the fair offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore and purchase everything from painting and sculpture to prints and ceramics.
Featuring over 45 leading galleries, and presenting a wide range of works by both emerging and established artists, Aotearoa Art Fair showcases the best of contemporary art from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.
The Art of April offers a delightful entrée in the lead-up to Auckland’s premiere art event, with this month’s selection featuring some of our favourite participating galleries.
SANDERSON CONTEMPORARY
Vinegar Lane
Scott Cai
On until — 27 April
Contemporary photographer Scott Cai’s ongoing project Ordinary Auckland, from which Vinegar Lane stems, uncovers the hidden beauty of suburban corners, capturing the subtle energies that define our existence.
2-4 Kent Street, Osborne Lane, Newmarket sanderson.co.nz
ART FAIR BOOTH G25
What to expect: An all-female booth with artists nominated for the 2025 Molly Morpeth Canaday Award including Josephine Cachemaille, Micky Smith, and Kāryn Taylor. Alongside Katherine Throne, Loren Marks, and Ray Haydon.
Thin Places
Jade Townsend
On until — 19 April
Using archetypal entities from a range of cultural and spiritual contexts— including rosary beads, a silver spoon, koru, and whetū, Townsend (Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi) creates a space for the exploration of futurisms and transcendence, via paintings and large-scale sculptures.
568 Great North Road, Grey Lynn seasonaotearoa.com
ART FAIR BOOTH G07
What to expect: New pieces by emerging artists Ngaroma Riley, Jade Townsend and Hamish Coleman.
BERGMAN GALLERY
Collision
Nina Oberg Humphries
On until — 26 April
Navigating spaces between inherited knowledge and present-day realities, Oberg Humphries’ work resists binary views of tradition versus modernity, instead presenting culture as dynamic and evolving.
3/582 Karangahape Road, entrance via 2 Newton Road bergmangallery.com
ART FAIR BOOTH G14
What to expect: An interactive reimagining of the Filipino pre-colonial feast by Louie Bretanã, Eat My Rice explores cultural identity and the impact of colonialism on Filipino eating traditions.
CHARLES NINOW
Fief
Alex Mcfarlane
28 March — 26 April
In Fief, Alex Mcfarlane presents decorative depictions of animals drawn from medieval art and architecture: a sombre winged wolf, an ambiguous curve of horns, a stylised dragon-like creature sprouting crucifixes from the tips of its strange head.
102/203 Karangahape Road charlesninow.com
ART FAIR BOOTH U48
What to expect: First-time exhibitor Charles Ninow will present a solo presentation by Thom Le Noël.
Aotearoa Art Fair runs for four days from 1 May at the Viaduct Events Centre, 171 Halsey Street, Auckland Waterfront. To find out more about the plethora of artists, talks and connected events to lock into your social calendar visit artfair.co.nz.
Given a comprehensive new lease of life, Pearson House, a beautifully restored 19th-century architectural gem, is now serving as the gateway to The Foundation retirement village in Parnell.
Situated on Titoki Street facing the Auckland Domain, Pearson House is a Category 1 Heritage Listed Building. Now it has been fully transformed into a key component of The Foundation, a significant multi-stage development that is more luxury hotel than retirement village.
The village’s first building, Nathan Residences, opened to residents in October 2023 and the second adjacent building, Abbott Residences, is currently under construction.
The upgrade of Pearson House involved bringing the original colonnade back to life, seamlessly linking the Drawing Room and Reading Room and establishing a café at ground level. Upstairs has been redesigned to house a luxurious boutique cinema, billiard room, lounge, an art studio, cardio studio and wellbeing suite.
Award-winning interior designer Stewart Harris, of Macintosh Harris – having drawn inspiration from the Neo-Georgian architecture of Pearson House – has created a richly textured interior design.
“I imagined how one would journey through the circulation spaces, and how that should be an uplifting experience, with bursts of light and colour along the journey,” he says. “This has been achieved with the use of colour, attention to lighting with crystals and chandeliers. This, combined with selected wallcoverings and artworks, links the old with the new, creating a collection of the contemporary and the traditional.”
Generus Living director, Graham Wilkinson, says Pearson House will serve as The Foundation’s exclusive club where residents can enjoy an uplifting environment surrounded by stunning heritage architecture that contributes to the cultural fabric of The Foundation.
“The Parnell precinct, with its rich history and enviable location, is so incredibly special,” he says. “As a heritage property, Pearson House holds significant cultural value that represents a tangible link to the past. By undertaking conservation work, this remarkable property can be maintained.”
To arrange a private tour of The Foundation, or to view the plans call 09 869 3947 or email enquiries@thefoundationvillage.co.nz
IN OTHER WORDS
11 – 12 April
Q Theatre
EASTER SHOW
18 – 21 April
ASB Showgrounds
When words fail, music remembers. This heartfelt play follows Arthur and Jane as they navigate love, memory, and Alzheimer’s, set to the music of Frank Sinatra. A deeply moving story brought to life by celebrated actors and real-life partners Jennifer Ward-Lealand and Michael Hurst.
qtheatre.co.nz
The Easter Show is back, bigger and better than ever! Whether you’re a chocoholic or craving adventure, there’s something for all ages here. Enjoy an epic egg hunt, thrilling rides, prehistoric dinosaurs, adorable farm animals, medieval action, an international food feast, and so much more!
iticket.co.nz
AUCKLAND PREVIEW SHOW
30 April Basement Theatre
Kick off the Comedy Festival season with this exclusive preview show! Get a sneak peek at work from the next generation of comedy stars (this year's Billy T nominees), amongst established favourites like Angella Dravid and Liv Parker.
iticket.co.nz
REB FOUNTAIN
3 May Town Hall
Prepare for an evening of genrebending tunes as Reb Fountain brings her unique mix of folk, rock, and electro-pop to the stage. Her voice? Mesmerising. Her stage presence? Unstoppable.
ticketmaster.co.nz
BEN ELTON
28 April
Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre
Following the huge success of Ben Elton’s critically acclaimed sold-out New Zealand tour in 2021 – which marked his return to live comedy after a 15-year hiatus – the undisputed godfather of modern stand-up back on the road with his gag-filled, taboo-busting, tonsilrattling, mind-expanding comedy.
aucklandlive.co.nz
26 April
Bruce Mason Centre
Iliza Shlesinger’s comedy is fast, fierce, and completely unfiltered. From chaotic group texts to the absurdities of modern dating, she dissects life with brutal honesty and lightning-fast wit. With six Netflix specials under her belt, she’s a standup powerhouse you don’t want to miss.
ticketmaster.co.nz
GINDULGENCE FEST
2 – 3 May
Shed 10
ED GAMBLE
6 May
Bruce Mason Centre
This is a must for gin lovers. Featuring over 80 gins from more than 20 distillers, enjoy signature G&Ts and catch ‘ginspiring’ presentations from iconic brands. Expand your knowledge, soak up the atmosphere, and indulge in delicious local food!
ticketfairy.com
Hot Diggity Dog is Ed Gamble’s bold new show, packed with his trademark wit and outrageous anecdotes. A fan favourite from Taskmaster, Ed brings his unique take on the world, from panel show chaos to unexpected moments that’ll have you in stitches.
ticketmaster.co.nz
Award Winning Independent Bookseller womensbookshop.co.nz · books@womensbookshop.co.nz Crossing the line since 1989
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BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS
BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS
BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS
We can help you with a wide range of legal issues including:
We can help you with a wide range of legal issues including:
•Company and Business Matters
We can help you with a wide range of legal issues including:
BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS
•Company and Business Matters
•Company and Business Matters
•Wills, Trusts, Estates
•Wills, Trusts, Estates
•Residential and Commercial Property and Conveyancing
We can help you with a wide range of legal issues including:
•Wills, Trusts, Estates
•Company and Business Matters
•Relationship Property and Contracting-Out Agreements
•Residential and Commercial Property and Conveyancing
•Wills, Trusts, Estates
•Commercial Leases and Contracts
•Relationship Property and Contracting-Out Agreements
•Residential and Commercial Property and Conveyancing
•Commercial Leases and Contracts
•Residential and Commercial Property and Conveyancing
•Relationship Property and Contracting-Out Agreements
•Commercial Leases and Contracts
419 Remuera Road, Remuera m 520 4800 m Remuera@wellslawyers.co.nz
•Commercial Leases and Contracts
419 Remuera Road, Remuera m 520 4800 m Remuera@wellslawyers.co.nz
•Relationship Property and Contracting-Out Agreements
419 Remuera Road, Remuera m 520 4800 m Remuera@wellslawyers.co.nz
THE AMATEUR
10 April
Oscar winner Rami Malek and Oscar nominee Hugh Jackman star in this action film from prominent TV director James Hawes (Black Mirror, Slow Horses). When a CIA cryptographer discovers that terrorists were behind his fiancée's death in a suspicious plane crash, he receives special training in order to plot his revenge.
THE PENGUIN LESSONS
17 April
THE CORRESPONDENT
17 April
Richard Roxburgh is Australian journalist and war correspondent Peter Greste in this biographical thriller from the director of Danger Close. December 2013, in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Egypt, Greste is confronted with the brutal realities of reporting from one of the most dangerous cities on earth. Accused of terrorism, Greste becomes a pawn in the middle of a deadly game full of corrupt officials and ancient rivalries – with only his wits keeping him alive.
SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE
24 April
Steve Coogan and a very good penguin star in this British heart warmer. The film's based on the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went to work in a school in Argentina in 1976. Expecting an easy ride, he discovered instead a complicated and divided nation – and a class of practically unteachable young boys. When he finds a small penguin washed up on an oilslicked beach, his life is turned upside down – and the penguin becomes not only a valued friend, but also a teacher of life’s most important lessons, for Tom, the boys, and many others.
Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer) and Oscar-nominees Emily Watson (Punch-Drunk Love) and Ciarán Hinds (Belfast) star in this adaptation of Irish author Claire Keegan's novella. It is 1985 in the run-up to Christmas in a small town in County Wexford, Ireland. Bill Furlong toils as a coal merchant to support himself, his wife and his five daughters. Early one morning while out delivering coal at the local convent, he makes a discovery that forces him to confront his past and the complicit silence of a town controlled by the Catholic Church.
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