Verve. December 2023. Issue 204.

An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.

DECEMBER ’23 / JANUARY ’24

Where Timeless Luxury Meets Quality Since 1989

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What’s Inside

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Up Front

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127

10 In Short

Artis

Sharing Joy

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128

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Design of December

Don’t Sweat It

Christmas at the Beach

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An Architectural Expression Island Life 20

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Welcome to Remuera 134

Builder of Dreams

Regal Remmers

The Wonder of Waiheke

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139

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Traditional Inspiration

Love Found in Remuera

Food & Wine 91

Art & About 158

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A Festive Setting

The Art of December

Sipping on the Dock of the Bay

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Taste & Drink

What’s On in December

In a World of Its Own 32

Waiheke Vines

Home & Design 38

The Twin Gable House

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Sub-editor/Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces Head Graphic Designer Arna Martin Graphic Designer Yamin Cook Social Media Yamin Cook Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Lucy Kennedy, Dennis Knill, Milly Nolan, Paul Leuschke, Aimée Ralfini, Helene Ravlich and Bella Sampson.

Subscriptions vervemagazine.co.nz/shop

Up Front

165 Beauty & Health 124

Lucy’s Corner

You Snooze, You Lose?

All Aboard!

Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021

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 in Devonport, Epsom, Ellerslie, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna. Verve is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields, Takapuna and in domestic terminal Auckland Airport.

Visit vervemagazine.co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands. Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format.

GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Advertising Enquiries danielle@vervemagazine.co.nz fran@vervemagazine.co.nz jude@vervemagazine.co.nz kate@vervemagazine.co.nz pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover: From The World at Your Table

by Stephanie Stokes (Rizzoli) All recipe books mentioned in the pages ahead are available in stores nationally.

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Visit vervemagazine.co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Blue Star, 8 Collard Place, Henderson, Auckland. It is distributed by Verve, ERC Contracting and Mailchimp.

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

s y a d i l o H y p p a H 🌸

Fran

In our fast-paced world, where instant gratification is the norm, it's hard to avoid getting caught up in the rush.

Back when we started Verve, I enjoyed reading Stephen Covey and his wisdom really resonated, with quotes like: “We live in a shortcut world. Can you imagine a farmer ‘cramming’ in the fall to bring forth the harvest, as students have done, and still do, to pass examinations?”

The image of a farmer cramming for a harvest, amused me, as seldom do shortcuts lead to the finer things in life; a bountiful field of corn and the vineyard of perfect grapes take time and care.

And so it has been with Verve, for the splendid holiday issue before you is the product of nearly two decades of passion, dedication, good times, and invaluable lessons, and I trust the outcome speaks for itself. In closing, I wish you all an unhurried and relaxed holiday season, filled with the people and pastimes you cherish the most.

A heartfelt thank you to my colleagues, advertisers, and readers for contributing to Verve's status as one of life's finer joys. Your role in our journey is deeply appreciated. Cheers to savouring the moments that make life rich and meaningful.

Yamin

Jude

Another year older and another year wiser. We all know that health is wealth, so my intention for 2024 is to keep fit and well. I feel excited about the year head, I want to travel and spend time with family overseas.

Christmas Day will be spent with my son-in-law’s family at their stunning home on Lake Rotoiti, with much focus on creating memories and delicious food! I can’t wait to see my two-yearold granddaughter, Moss, open her gifts on Christmas morning. Then, it’s on to stunning Whau Whau, living off grid with more family time, laughing, dancing, playing music and making more memories. I will miss my family in New York but maybe next year I will be there with them.

Wishing you all the most wonderful time wherever you are in the world! And of course, the biggest thank you to our team at Verve – it’s been the best year ever!

Love, Jude xxx

Fran xx

Up Front

Shout out to my mum, you’re my best friend, idol and arguably Verve’s biggest fan. I’m grateful for another year of growing with the team, and am looking forward to what ’24 brings. Lots of love, and happy holidays!

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Jamie

Newly married, a new baby, a new book, it feels as though I’ve hardly had time to take a breath this year. I’d love to say I’ll be doing as little as is humanly possible over the coming break, but a certain little one-year-old human will ensure it’s not too restful… and heaps of fun. Merry Christmas everyone, and wishing you lots of luck, love, and happiness for ’24.

Kate

Christine

Tamami

As another year rolls on by, I'm looking forward to Christmas Day – fun and festive! The day will be spent with my family, and as with most families, we so enjoy the time together. We're gathering at the beach house so sand and crashing waves will feature. Everyone brings their special dish and a feast will appear for all to enjoy. As the holiday season unfolds, may your days be filled with love, peace and the magic of Christmas. Here’s to creating lasting memories and embracing the beauty of both family and nature.

Wishing you a merry Christmas and happy new year.

Growing up in Japan, never had I dreamed of sandy beaches and clear blue skies on Christmas Day, enjoying festive barbecues in the sunshine!

Although I miss my family and a cosy kotatsu table on a snowy night, I can’t wait to experience my very first summer Christmas and treat myself with quality wines from New Zealand. I can never thank everyone enough who helped me through my incredible journey to get here and wish you all a wonderful holiday!

Dani

Arna

Pam

Picture this: a boat being prepped for a Christmas morning fish; teenagers pretending to be useful; a cat and a dog unsure whether to engage in friendship; crabs in a bucket unsure if they’ll end up in a pot; and a cacophony of birdsong chirping in the background. And amidst the chaos, our annual tradition of crafting a driftwood Christmas tree, symbolising the unique blend of nature and creativity that defines this special time of year for us. This is Christmas on Waiheke Island, where my family and I will gather with our relatives from Europe after 10 years, and I can’t wait! Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas, and best wishes for the new year.

Merry Christmas and happy new year everybody! My first full year at Verve has been highlighted with our annual Best in Beauty edit in August along with recently launching Beauty by Verve with the team. Thank you to all our contributors and readers for making this possible!

I’ve also loved being able to travel this year and see everyone else’s overseas adventures! Here’s to another beautiful year and a long NZ summer. Dani xx

As we wrap up the year with the final issue of Verve, I'm grateful to be part of the team that brings you this inspiring, innovative, and creative magazine. This season is my absolute favourite, spending special times with family and friends.

Wishing you all a rejuvenating break and festive celebrations as we look forward to the exciting opportunities a new year brings. Happy holidays everyone.

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The ol' saying ‘the older we get, the faster it goes’ reminds me to make the most of each day! I’m looking forward to a well-earned break, spending time with family and friends, and sharing great food and loads of laughter. A huge thanks to our clients and readers for their ongoing support, and best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and new year. We all deserve it.

December / January

In Short Verve’s monthly round up of what’s new, interesting, and happening… in a paragraph!

Toy Stories

“Like Christmas every fortnight”, a toy library serves as a space parents or carers can visit to borrow toys, puzzles, and games for their little ones. From building imagination and creativity, to fostering cognitive, emotional, and behavioural growth, and encouraging independence, play is vital to a child’s development: toys aren’t just fun, they’re educational tools to boot! However, any parent of a young child knows how easily kids tire of their toys – a toy library is a highly affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly solution. Different libraries have different policies, but membership is usually around $200 per year, with options to have the fee significantly reduced or even waived in exchange for volunteering at the library for a couple of hours three or four times a year. For more information about these excellent community services, how you can support them, and to find your nearest one, visit toylibrary.co.nz .

Christmas Angels

As well as providing shelter and medical consultations for thousands in need, in the year to December 2022, Auckland City Mission delivered 49,406 food parcels – the equivalent of 2.38 million meals. “The pallets of tinned food can weigh up to 800kg and that can get a bit tricky,” says warehouse senior storeperson Hamish Hippolite, “but I honestly love this work. We’re a small team and it’s imperative that we work together so everyone pitches in and it’s a great vibe.” The festive period can be even tougher for those already experiencing hardship, and Aucklanders are invited to become someone’s Christmas angel by organising a food and gift collection, ordering online gifts to be delivered directly to tamariki, or setting up an online donation page for gifts with options to share with coworkers, suppliers, and customers and even set up gift matching to allow your employer to match all donations made. You’ll find all the information you need at aucklandcitymission.org.nz/ aucklands-angels.

Fulfilling Festivities

World-leading keynote speaker, bestselling author, thought leader, mental health expert, and growth coach, Tracey Horton, from Australia, has offered some much-needed advice and lifehacks around removing the stress this Christmas. "With so many people under pressure to buy expensive items and lots of gifts, we can lose track of what really matters in life, and that is caring for and loving each other," says Tracey. "We are so busy that we don't get to spend quality time with each other. Instead of spending lots of money on exorbitant gifts, give the gift of time.” She suggests giving ‘time vouchers’ to loved ones and embrace the likes of good old-fashioned cards and board games. It’s also, she adds, important to clear out unused toys, include practical gifts to teach kids that gift giving is about “giving what people need rather than everything they want”, and, perhaps most importantly, to help others more in need. "We choose a family in our community, and we all give them a Christmas,” says Tracey. “The kids get right into it and it is always so special as the recipients are always so grateful." continues over page

Up Front

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“Let’s keep it simple this Christmas.”

TIMELESS DESIGN, SIMPLE LUXURY AND NOW AVAILABLE IN EXQUISITE TITANIUM AND ETHICAL BUFFALO HORN EXCLUSIVELY IN-STORE AT MORTIMER HIRST

Pitch Perfect

Kiwi Kids for Causes is a wonderful, warm-hearted group of children aged 6-13 who use their voices, quite literally, to help fund important causes. Each year, the 50-strong group of kind kids create cover albums for various fundraisers, and this year it’s for brain cancer support and research. Unfortunately, it’s a cause close to the kids’ hearts as one of the children has a mother with brain cancer, and another two lost cousins to the disease. The upcoming album, Brain Storm, will be released on 16 December; check it out, along with their previous release, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube Music. You can also follow them on Instagram @kiwikidsforcauses_music.

To find out more about this inspirational group, visit linkin.bio/kiwikidsforcause.

Up Front

Cruising with Care

Way back in 1983, a team first took a group of disabled kids to the cinema, establishing the charity Koru Care.

Within a couple of years of fundraising, they had enough to take a group of youngsters to the UK where they visited Buckingham Palace and Coronation Street. From raffles to garage sales, today, the organisation continues to raise funds to make ill and disabled kids’ dreams come true with overseas trips to the likes of Disneyland, accompanied by their caregivers, volunteers, and registered nurses. Each year, Koru Care also throws a Christmas party for over 250 children by way of a two-hour cruise around Waitematā Harbour, with entertainment taking the shape of things like tugboat water fights and Eagle police helicopter fly-bys. But of course, it’s the visit from Santa that creates the biggest buzz! Find out more, including how to donate, at korucare.co.nz .

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Making Kids Feel Special

Established in 1998, Special Children’s Christmas Parties is an organisation dedicated to “giving special Kiwi children aged 3-12, their families, and caregivers, a spectacular day to remember” by way of feasts, fun games, celebrity shows, and more. Whatever difficulties the children may be experiencing – whether it be life-threatening illness, physical or intellectual impairment, domestic violence, or living in underprivileged circumstances – this charity ensures that a smile is put on their faces at the most magical time of the year. Over the past 25 years, they’ve helped nearly 200,000 kids, by way of 140 nationwide parties with the support of 7,000 volunteers and over half-a-million toy gifts. “Regardless of their situation, kids are kids,” says New Zealand event manager, Mark Wikstrom. “They want to go out and have fun. To be kids. Our parties make a huge difference. It’s the small things that make a difference to these children.” To find out how to help “create a day to help them forget everything else that’s going on”, including sponsoring an event, visit sccpnz.co.nz .

Holiday gifting This season, we invite you to explore a curated collection of gifts that resonate with the spirit of the holidays Whether you are seeking calm in comfort, celebrating the art of hosting, embracing soft minimalism, or reconnection with the outdoors, our collection presents an array of choices.

Shop online or in-store at our two Auckland locations to see gift ideas from Audo Copenhagen, AYTM, Oliver James and more.

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1. Wine breather carafe $229 2. Carrie outdoor portable lamp $469 3. Bottle grinders in brass $289pr 4. Ray portable outdoor lamp $719 5. Interconnect candleholder in black $879 6. Oliver James single lilo $1,929 7. Aer 33 vase $529 8. Oliver James lilo ring $1,539

www.dawsonandco.nz

Christmas at the Beach

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WORDS — JUSTINE HEWITT PHOTOGRAPHY — TOBY MURPHY & WARREN HEATH

This page: Christmas on the beach is the perfect opportunity to get back to nature and keep things on the simple side – leaving you to enjoy the surrounds and the opportunity to really connect with family and friends.

Right page: For Lee and Ella Raeburn, Christmas on the beach is something they and their whole family can enjoy. It’s a relaxed opportunity to enjoy a special day with special festive trimmings and minimal fuss.

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December / January

Up Front

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Left page: It’s easy to make an extra special beach brunch with a little planning – and cheating! To avoid your picnic being invaded by sand, a table of sorts is a must – an old wooden board is easy to carry and creates a perfectly flat surface for setting up your feast.

Top right: Dress your beach picnic table in textures and tones that reflect the natural surrounds. Natural jute is perfect to use for napkins and as coasters while sprigs of dune flowers and little potted succulents are a cute and eco-friendly touch. Wooden cutlery is an essential (throw them in the fire if you have a beach bonfire later) and don’t forget easy-on-the-eye servingware in shades of the sea.

Bottom right: Savoury spoils that look and taste amazing and that can be prepared with minimal fuss ahead of time (and served cold) make sense for Christmas in the sun.

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December / January

Left top: For something sweet, a beautiful berry pavlova is the perfect Christmas pudding and is so easy to assemble. Simply make (or buy) a pavlova and pop whipped cream and fresh berries in separate containers – your masterpiece will take a few minutes to assemble and will look amazing.

Left bottom: What would Christmas be without a signature cocktail? For a fresh and juicy summertime cocktail, combine elderflower cordial, club soda and plenty of fresh fruit. Or go without the soda and add prosecco or cava to the fresh fruit mix. Chop the fruit before you leave for the beach and don’t forget to save our seas – bamboo straws are a perfect sipping solution.

Up Front

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The Wonder of Waiheke WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

An island paradise of an island nation paradise, Waiheke is the undisputed jewel of the Hauraki Gulf, a 20-km monolith bordered by beautiful beaches and bulging with bountiful vines.

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It’s believed that the Hauraki Gulf’s second largest island – after Great Barrier – was among the first places to be settled in Aotearoa when the Polynesian voyagers first arrived.

It didn’t take long for the Europeans to take note of the island’s potential, with the Auckland Weekly News commenting in 1893 that “Aucklanders are beginning to realise what a beautiful resort Waiheke Island is, and this summer is doing much to establish its reputation as the watering place of Auckland par excellence”.

The first vineyards wouldn’t be established for nearly a century more, however, when the Goldwater Estate planted its first grapes in the late 1970s. Now, more than 30 vineyards and wineries bloom from the rich soils of Waiheke (which means “cascading waters”) that has also, over the years, nurtured a raft of New Zealand artists lured by its scenery and isolation while still being within striking distance of our mightiest city.

One such artist was Teri Parat who moved to the island six years ago having visited regularly since her teenage years.

“Many years later, we owned a family bach at Pūtiki Bay, so I’ve always felt a strong connection and knew that I would make the move permanent someday,” she tells Verve – while continuing to paint away! “It’s such a unique slice of paradise.”

And one that has even steered Teri into new creative realms.

“I’ve been doing a lot more floral paintings since I moved to the island, inspired by the natural beauty of the place,” she says. “My little cottage is surrounded by trees, and you wake in the morning to the sound of tūī. The birdlife here is just extraordinary.

“I’ve also met some incredible people. From the galleries to the other artists, the art community here is wonderful and just so supportive. There are always exhibitions happening, it’s such an inspiring place to be.”

Outside her studio, Teri takes advantage of the island’s multitude of hikes (“I start each day with a good beach walk!”), world class eateries, and, of course, wineries.

“There’s are also a couple of distilleries that have recently opened up – gin and whisky – which are great,” says Teri. “There certainly isn’t a lack of things to do.”

I finish by asking Teri to sum up the island in a sentence or a few words.

“Gosh, how do you do that?! It’s laid back, it’s magical, it’s stressfree. It’s certainly become more popular, with more people coming over, and more homes going up, but there’s still no traffic… or traffic lights!”

Find Teri on Facebook @teriparatartist and Instagram @teriparat .

Waiheke Blooms

Christy Ralphs is used to the quite life having grown up on Aotea/Great Barrier Island. “My husband was from Auckland, so it was originally a ‘compromise’ move between my love of islands and small communities and my husband Mike’s familiarity with the big city,” she tells Verve. “It turned out to be the perfect choice for us both. We still love the close-knit nature of the island and the beautiful environment, but when we need a break or want to be anonymous the city is easily accessible.”

After her and her family had spent a decade developing Owhanake Bay Estate, Christy opened Nourish Gardens (nourishgardens.com) to help “bring something a little different to the island”.

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December / January

“We are the only flower farm on Waiheke Island amongst a plethora of vineyards and olive groves – though we also have those on our property!” she says. “My dream is for every community in New Zealand to have a sustainable local flower farm that serves them. Most people don’t know where their flowers have been grown, and what chemicals have been used on them. I love that our flowers are ‘safe to sniff’ and that we can add beauty and meaning through flowers to our local community.”

What also sets the project apart are its tours and workshops.

“It’s unusual to be allowed to see behind the scenes of a flower growing business, but sharing what we do has always been important to me,” says Christy. “For people that just want to have a look we’ve developed a unique Self-Guided Tour where you can turn up when we have our Farm Shop open, and we’ll give you a map so you can explore at your leisure.

It’s a working flower farm, so it’s not manicured, nor is there usually a sea of flowers as we pick the flowers for best vase life, so often that is before they have opened fully. We’re on hand to answer any questions and give you all the tips and tricks for growing your own blooms.”

The half- to full-day workshops and courses offer more “in-depth experiences

Island Life

to learn about growing, designing or just being creative with flowers.

It’s such an outdoor lifestyle that Christy most loves about Waiheke.

“We enjoy that we offer something a bit different for visitors to experience on Waiheke. This summer we’re launching our Nourish Experience which will mean that you can book a private guided flower pick, and design your own bouquet with our help. We always include delicious, sweet treats as well – that is also very important to me!”

“I like to walk – in my ultimate dream I’m one of those fit trail runners hurtling down the tracks, but in reality, a more sedate pace suits me – so I love the tracks near my house. Walking from Matiatia to Oneroa, via the headland coastal tracks, is stunning. Best avoided after heavy rain though, it gets very slippery. Another favourite is a hidden bay which is only a short walk from the road: Te Wharau. On a day when everyone is at Oneroa Beach with their speakers blaring, Te Wharau is blissfully serene and you’re unlikely to see anyone else there. Kayaking is the perfect way to discover all sorts of little private coves and beaches – I’m surprised we aren’t more of a kayaking destination.”

Christy is now celebrating 20 years on the island. “Choosing to raise and school our children entirely here was the best parenting decision we ever made,” she says. “My children have now flown the nest, will always have this safe welcoming place to come back to, even if their parents are no longer there.”

Any standout island memories?

“My eldest son taking his first steps on the sand at Little Oneroa Beach, scrunching his chubby toes into the sand for extra grip.

“I was also part of the team that set up the Sea Sports Academy at Waiheke High School, which is a unique marine outdoor education programme. Every Tuesday or Thursday afternoon you would find me at a beach, snorkelling, kayaking, sailing with a great bunch of teenagers, and I used to marvel at the fact that this was ‘work’.”

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As for anything she misses about living on the mainland, Christy says that experiencing a day’s traffic on Auckland soon fixes that!

“I do also miss the easy access to other great outdoor spaces,” she adds, “but we already live in a paradise, so it’s not too much of a cross to bear.”

Forever Friends

The Friends of McKenzie Reserve (mckenziereserve.org.nz) was established in 2003 by a group of neighbours and Waiheke

“We still love the close-knit nature of the island and the beautiful environment, but when we need a break or want to be anonymous the city is easily accessible.”

environmentalists with the aim of replacing hundreds of ageing pine trees and as an educational botanic space for the community to enjoy. The four-hectare eden sits on the northern Waiheke coast, with views across Enclosure Bay. “Through diligent pest and weed control and planting of over 15,000 native species, we are seeing the return of native birds like the tūī, kākā, kererū, pīwakawaka, ruru and, most recently, the pīpīwharauroa, or shining cuckoo, plus gecko,” beams McKenzie Reserve Chair, Niki Schuck. “It’s magical early in the morning and at dusk to just sit and observe the goings on in nature. Walking tracks through the reserve make it a favourite spot for walking and exercise, exploring with tamariki and mokopuna, extensive educational signage makes it a great learning space. There are seats for quiet reflection and a grass area called the Glade, where people picnic, kick a ball around, play croquet or lie, and gaze at the stars.”

The donation of the Chris Bailey pou artwork from Sculpture on the Gulf Trust makes for a striking entrance to the Reserve from Empire Avenue.

“It’s a reminder that Waiheke’s history goes back much further than the European’s arriving here,” Niki continues.

“Through evidence of middens, we know Māori lived in the area surrounding

McKenzie Reserve. Back then it would have been full of established natives, a thriving valley with fresh water and close to the coast, abundant food and situated on the main trading routes for Māori.

The pou are called Te Rerenga Wai o Tikapa Moana – The flowing waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Chris wanted people to remember those that have come before us and others that will follow us. We should remember that what we do now matters. The reserve plays a vital role in filtering the flow of water into Enclosure Bay and is home to so much native flora and fauna – we aren’t the only ones that love living here.”

Niki tells Verve that the volunteers’ efforts of the years have been “out of this world”, with people gladly “sharing their skills and passion for nature, education, sustainability and creativity”.

“The Waiheke community is kind and caring,” she says. “It feels like Aotearoa when I was young growing up in Ōtepoti/ Dunedin. It is creative and clever, incredibly giving of its time while being conscious of both the people and the planet.”

The volunteer network has also ensured that the community comes together regularly.

in partnership with the Waiheke Local Board,” she says. “Our monthly working bees always end with a cuppa and kai.

Whanaungatanga is so important.”

Niki has been coming to Waiheke – which she describes as “he taonga” – since 2001.

“I fell in love with it immediately,” she recalls. “We initially bought a small bach and then sold and built our home near McKenzie Reserve and shifted here permanently in 2014.”

Exploring the treasured land remains her favourite thing to do there – and recommends the Waiheke Walking Festival (waihekewalkingfestival.org) as a highlight.

“They do an amazing job of creating 10 days of walks that enable you to see the island in a sustainable way,” she says.

“They’re fantastic walks that bring the history of the island to life through people telling stories, some that are on private land and others that combine walking, food and wine – what’s not to love. There’s even a guided walk through the McKenzie Reserve!”

If you are interested in featuring in the next edition of ‘Life on Waiheke’ in our February issue -please contact kate@vervemagazine.co.nz

“The creation of the reserve is an example of a passionate group of locals working

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December / January

In a World of Its Own WORDS — HELENE RAVLICH

Offering superlative island living in an exclusive address just 30 minutes by boat from Auckland’s CBD, Wawata Estate is in a league of its own.

Nestled on Waiheke Island on a stunning headland between Palm Beach and Onetangi, the private gated property of just 25 lots has evolved from neglected grazing land into something very special – with owner and visionary, Chris Jacobs at the helm.

Chris, who has spent the past five years bringing his dream for the 38-hectare enclave to life, says he recognised the land’s potential from the get-go. “I was living on Waiheke at the time and although starting to slow down, was not ready to fully retire just yet,” he explains. He was looking to take on a project nearby and when he came upon Wawata, he immediately saw an amazing piece of land but covered in gorse and other noxious weeds. “But I pride myself on my ability to think creatively,” he adds, “and saw beyond that initial impression to what it could become.”

What it was destined to be was a parkland dotted with discreet, thoughtfully placed premium residences, a luxury coastal residential estate sitting elegantly across the landscape. Chris says that over the years he has cultivated an ever-increasing respect for the earth, and after researching the rejuvenation of wetlands and farmland could see the land where Wawata lay as being “a prime candidate for restoration as well as an exceptional place to live”.

ensure its significant archaeological sites had been identified and would be protected to the nth degree.

Ensuring an exceptional level of intuitively crafted residences across the estate, a design code has also been established to govern construction. Impeccably crafted homes will lie gently along the landscape – all with generous room for design teams to unleash their creativity and seclusion for residents a given.

Several of Auckland’s leading architects have created what they envisage as enviable home designs for many of the lots, with professionals from within the architecture world also securing lots of their own.

“It’s led to some extraordinary design options,” enthuses Chris, “with building platforms ranging up to 5,300 square metres on which to play.

“You wake up every day on Waiheke feeling like you’re on holiday, and I think that’s why so many buyers looking for an escape from busy lives have been drawn here. This special land we call Wawata – meaning ‘to desire earnestly, to long for’ – provided us with a magnificent raw canvas, and now we are more than ready to welcome those looking to secure their slice of a true legacy property.”

Those who choose to select a piece of Wawata are making a commitment to the future, with millions of dollars spent on the environment by Chris, who have overseen the planting of 300,000 native trees and shrubs, pest eradication, and restoration of the wetland, amongst other endeavours. Wawata Estate also worked with local iwi and Heritage New Zealand to

To find out more about lots available call Chris Jacobs 021 585 206 or visit wawataestate.co.nz

Island Life

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Live in timeless beauty

Time is our most valuable commodity, so how we use it and where we spend it matters more than anything. It’s the people we choose to share it with. It’s the places we spend it.Those people, naturally, are the beautiful friends and family we surround ourselves with.

carefully created to deliver outstanding views and secure privacy within an exclusive gated community. With eleven of our lots already purchased and designs by renowned architects underway, your vision too can be part of the creating this unique place and special moment in time.

Those places are specially chosen. Somewhere we can be free to enjoy the best life has to offer. Somewhere private and exclusive, yet close to the best of beaches and finest wines.

It has to be a place with an indefinable magic, unspoiled by man, restored to its best form, yet discretely enhanced to connect you to the natural world.

The beauty of Wawata is taking shape, and now is your chance to ensure your place as part of this timeless estate doesn’t slip away. You could explore our website, but to appreciate the impressive, immersive beauty you really need to come spend some time here. Get in touch and let us take you on a private tour of Wawata Estate.

Blessed by 180 degree panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and a north facing aspect, Wawata Estate is that place. This 38 hectare parkland is removed from the everyday, each lot,

wawataestate.co.nz

PLANORAMA CONSULTING | planorama.co.nz

ISLE LAND PLANNING | isleland.co.nz

Nicole established Planorama on Waiheke 16 years ago and has extensive, specialist knowledge of the Hauraki Gulf Islands. The Planorama team offers quality, cost-effective planning advice including development and subdivision feasibility, potential for additional accommodation including minor units / tiny homes, and we prepare all types of resource consent applications. Call us today for a 1-hour consultation and assessment of your concept, free of charge.

Offering you proven Hauraki Gulf planning/resource consent expertise, business owner Wendy Baverstock offers a dynamic, common sense approach and the ability to think outside the square. Backed by a significant track record of residential and commercial projects (including most of Waiheke’s iconic wineries), Isle Land Planning provides the crucial step in helping you successfully navigate the island’s unique consenting terrain. Email us at info@isleland.co.nz or call 09 372 2757.

Nicole Bremner, BPlan (Hons), MNZPI Email nicole@planorama.co.nz Phone 09 372 9266 / 027 204 6210

PHOTO: PETER REES

THE WINE TASTING COMPANY | thewinetastingcompany.co.nz

VINO VINO | vinovino.co.nz 153 Ocean View Road, Oneroa | (09) 372 9888

The Wine Tasting Company offers small group tours on beautiful Waiheke Island. Tours include cellar door visits with wine tastings, craft beer tasting, and gin tastings. Enjoy scenic drives taking in breathtaking views of the beaches, island landscapes and vines. Our local guides will ensure a relaxing, fun and unforgettable day away.

Born in 2021 from a happy marriage between Waiheke’s longest established restaurant and a dynamic new owner, international award-winning Argentine-Kiwi chef Connie Aldao. Vino Vino offers delicious, fresh, authentic Argentine and Mediterranean-style cuisine and a generous, thoughtful selection of local and regional wines, with both indoor and outdoor dining areas. Breathtaking views overlooking spectacular Oneroa Bay will guarantee a dining experience to remember.

Island Life

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AUTHENTIC ITALIAN AND MEDITERRANEAN FLAVOURS

Tempt Your Tastebuds

IN THE HEART OF ONEROA VILLAGE

at Waiheke Specialty Food

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CAFE FENICE ITALIA

waihekespecialtyfood.co.nz ‧ 09 372 2276

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staywaiheke.com 09 372 5402

Contact us to book your Waiheke Island holiday 27

December / January

V E RV E E XC LU S I V E W E LCO M E G I F T A B OT T L E O F WA I H E K E W I N E O N A R R I VA L

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F LE E T WOOD WAI H E KE STAY WI T H U S A N D E X P LO R E T H E E A ST E R N E N D O F WA I H E K E . D I S COV E R V I N E YA R D S, R E STAU R A N TS, WA L K I N G T R A I LS, H O R SE- R I D I N G , A G I N D I ST I L L E RY A N D M O R E . E S C A P E T H E C ROWD S TO A SE R E N E A N D R E L A X I N G H AV E N.

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CONTACT US

B O O K YO U R LU X U R I O U S STAY N OW

+64 21 1234 908 integratedlandscaping.co.nz

F LEET WO O DWAIHEK E.CO M

Quality window furnishings, locally-run on Waiheke

Award-winning Craft distillery & Garden Bar Sip and celebrate summer with us Come for the gin, stay for the views! Indulge in tastings, tours, and expertly crafted cocktails while savoring shared platters.

Along with offering expert advice on the right window shades to suit your budget and lifestyle we pride ourselves in providing honest professional services to our customers. Book a free, no obligation consultation with Luella in your own home.

OPEN 11AM - 6PM WED - SUN

EVERYDAY

T HE D ES IGN LI N E. C O. NZ

Island Life

27 DEC 2023 - 14 JAN 2024

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WAIHEKEDISTILLING.CO.NZ INFO@WAIHEKEDISTILLING.CO.NZ 258 COWES BAY ROAD, WAIHEKE 09 372 7797

203/121 Customs St West, Auckland City Angela Pervan 021 816 090

Jodi Douglas AREINZ 021 278 8309

angela@prestigerealestate.co.nz jodi@prestigerealestate.co.nz

Unlock The Perfect Lifestyle The Point, Viaduct Harbour 2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1 Parking Space

WAIHEKE'S ORGANIC SHOP

Prestige Real Estate International Ltd Licensed Real Estate Agent REAA 2008

Uniting communities through organic shopping, honoring the land we love.

Greenspace is Waiheke Island's dedicated organic shop and general store, for fresh organic produce, teas and tonics, natural homeware and bodycare.

OPEN TUES - SAT / 10AM - 4PM 20 TAHI ROAD, WAIHEKE ISLAND

Tightly held 'The Point' is not just a residence; it's a statement of opulence, location & lifestyle. This spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment is the ideal choice for those who are seeking a prestigious apartment that allows them to lock up & leave, whenever adventure or business calls.

The Point is an award-winning architectural complex, setting the bar high in luxury living. The moment you step into this spacious apartment you will be drawn through to the view, overlooking the yachts in the Viaduct Marina. The vibrant heart of the city is right on your doorstep. Viewing is strictly by invitation only- contact us today and experience the epitome of luxury Harbourside living.

prestigerealestate.co.nz

We specialise in setting up beautiful homes to succeed, practically That means we ensure they can’t flood, they can’t sink, their toilets empty and they are supplied with drinkable water. It’s not pretty but if you get the basics right then pretty comes later and lasts longer.

Geotechnical

Wastewater

Civil Engineering

Stormwater

Drinking Water

Project & Contract Management

For advice, feasibility studies and engineering solutions, contact our expert team.

09 445 8338 | enquiries@gwe.co.nz

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December / January

koukoulee.com

Elevate Your Wellness on Waiheke Perched above Waiheke’s Oneroa Bay, Koukoulee is a bright and airy loft offering stunning sea views and a serene atmosphere. High cathedral ceilings and white walls evoke a sense of wellness and mindfulness.

Enjoy a yoga or pilates class, massage, and treatments like holistic facials. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise during your warrior two, and to later relax while taking in the colours of the sunset.

Also offered are private luxury yoga retreats, events and corporate wellness

PHOTO: KIT REILLY

at some of the island’s most beautiful locations. It’s your one-stop shop for wellness on Waiheke.

passionate specialists who put their soul into their craft, ensuring you’re in the best hands.

Founder, Vassia Simou has spent the last four years handpicking a team of experts in their fields, including yoga and pilates instructors, chefs, PTs, and beauty and massage therapists. All are

120 Ocean View Road, Waiheke Island

(above the pharmacy)

BOUTIQUE WAIHEKE ACCOMMODATION

BOOK NOW / YOUVEGOTITMAID.CO.NZ / +64 27 472 4125

“powerful and structured... like a Frank Stella sculpture” The Magna Praemia 2019 99 points -James Suckling

Waiheke Vines

PHOTO: MILI VILLAMIL

Verve talks with Duncan McTavish, General Manager, Viticulture and Winemaking at Man O’ War Vineyards.

What sets Man O' War apart as a winery?

The Man O’ War story begins with a special piece of land with rich heritage. Today, along with the vineyards, it is a working Angus beef and lamb farm with a restaurant, cellar door and dedicated event space. We have a strong commitment towards maintaining its beauty and integrity, and a desire to protect this treasured land’s natural beauty and sense of history for future generations.

The property comprises a stunning array of coastal hillsides with high cliffs and pristine beaches forming a ruggedly beautiful coastline. Our vineyards benefit from the island's maritime climate, which provides a long, dry growing season with cooling sea breezes. This unique terroir contributes to the distinct character and complexity of Man O’ War wines. Man O' War boasts 76 individual hillside vineyards on Waiheke and neighbouring Ponui Island, each chosen for the unique and exceptional qualities they bring to the wines.

You can experience our Kulta Range with a private tasting, paired with a selection of house-baked sourdough and Man O' War olive oil and honey at our Tasting Room – bookings essential!

What grape varieties are predominantly grown, and how do they express the characteristics of the island's terroir?

Are there any special events or experiences that visitors can enjoy at the Man O' War?

Man O' War produces a diverse range of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rose, Syrah and Bordeaux-style blends, known for their elegance, complexity, and ability to reflect the unique terroir of Waiheke and Ponui Islands.

White varieties have been carefully placed high on hilltops to benefit from cooling sea breezes, extending their growing season and giving them great concentration and minerality. Red varieties drape down steep, sheltered clay hillsides enjoying the heat and drainage provided, promoting intensity and depth.

Which wines most embody the essence of the vineyards and showcase the best of Waiheke Island?

Our Signature Kulta Collection is an homage to our Finnish ancestors; where Kulta means ‘loved one’ and, conveniently, ‘gold’. Kulta is also an expression of hard work and determination, for vineyards carved out of a magnificent landscape and the craftsmanship of great wine.

Island Life

The Tasting Room and Restaurant, with New Zealand’s only beachside cellar door, showcases our current release Flagship and Kulta wine ranges alongside select limited library wine, as well as olive oil and mānuka honey produced on the property. It’s open seven days over summer, with live music and entertainment on the weekends and public holidays.

We’re excited that early next year there will be more ways to explore the property, including e-bike tours, private vineyard tours and the Forestflight Zipline through the Kauri canopies.

Watch this space!

From mid-December you can travel directly to Man O’ War Bay with Explore on select sailings or enjoy the scenic drive on board the Man O' War Coach, which departs from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal and returns from Man O' War multiple times a day.

For more information and coach tickets visit manowar.co.nz

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Putiki Estate A Symphony of Luxury Nestled atop the sun-drenched slopes of Waiheke Island, Putiki Estate unfolds as a haven of sophistication, seamlessly blending contemporary luxury with the raw beauty of the island’s landscapes. As you approach the estate, a picturesque scene unveils itself — bush-clad surroundings adding lush vibrance.

The house itself mirrors the elegance of its natural setting and is a testament to architectural finesse. Expansive windows usher in a breathtaking panorama, offering glimpses of the Hauraki Gulf and rolling vineyards. Each corner exudes an air of understated opulence, inviting guests to immerse themselves in comfort, luxury and style. Tastefully

furnished suites, lounge areas, and other spaces, all boast stunning views creating a sense of connection with the outdoors, bringing the serenity of Waiheke into every corner of this unforgettable retreat.

Putiki Estate’s grounds are a verdant ode to nature’s beauty. Manicured lawns and native flora provide an idyllic backdrop for leisurely strolls or quiet moments of reflection. A hot tub, a gorgeous wee pub located at the end of a tennis court, and a pool, strategically positioned to get the best of the shelter and sun, remind guests to relax, and have fun.

For those seeking to whip up culinary delights, the spacious, cutting edge kitchen is a dream come true for the

home cook and an easy space to work in for your professional chef. Eat al fresco on the terrace, where delicious meals are complemented by sweeping views across Putiki Bay. With access to all that Waiheke has to offer in the way of tours, restaurants, wine tasting, spa treatments, and personalised experiences, a weekend at Putiki Estate transcends the ordinary.

It’s an immersion into the essence of Waiheke—a retreat where luxury meets nature, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

Book your stay at Putiki Estate for a celebration of life’s finer things. Boasting world-class accommodation, the estate is ideal for family gatherings, corporate events, celebrations, and more. putikiestate.co.nz | staywaiheke.com

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December / January

bayleys.co.nz

Keeping it Real PHOTO: PETER REES

Verve hops aboard the ferry for a chinwag with legendary local realtor, Sherryn El Bakary of Bayleys Waiheke.

What drew you to work in real estate on Waiheke, and what do you find most special about it?

My last career took me all over the world for many years when I was based In London. I was so happy to return to my home on Waiheke 30 years ago.

Realising that it was an undiscovered gem, I felt that I was the right person at the right time to market and sell properties and that real estate would be the ideal career for me.

in fundraising projects such as the Onetangi Beach Races to raise significant funds for the community.

The schools have benefited, and we have installed 48 AED defibrillators, donated equipment to the Waiheke Medical Centre, and providing food packages to underprivileged families at Christmas. In 2016, when I was president, the Rotary installed the Westpac Helicopter helipad, saving the community over $100,000.

Can you share some of the unique aspects of working in the property market on Waiheke?

Many Kiwis returning after the pandemic wanted to be close to a major city, with good weather, good broadband, and good schools their children could walk to ‘bare feet', with a safe, caring community. The fact that Waiheke has world-renowned vineyards and restaurants added to the attraction! This led to a surge in demand for family homes. The challenge was to find properties to sell, and this is only just changing since the election.

What's the most memorable property you've listed on Waiheke?

There was an elderly property on a sizeable site at the end of Kennedy Point with views that made you feel like you were on the Titanic! I sold It again a few years later to a dear friend returning home from a glamourous life in Hollywood. She hired an architect to design a magical home which incorporated part of the old house.

Can you tell us about the island’s sense of community and local culture?

I’ve been a member of the Waiheke Rotary Club for 14 years, involved

Island Life

Could you tell us about your involvement with the Waiheke Rat Programme and its importance in preserving the island's unique environment?

I was inspired after reading an article about how Miramar was trying to eliminate the rats. I contacted many

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specialists, including Goodnature and Waiheke Rat Busters, and approached everyone in my street managing to get 44 out of 50 properties to take some form of device. The change in birdlife is obvious and I’m regularly emailed by neighbours to say they feel like they’re in the tropics being awaken by birdsong!

What motivates you to keep working, and what advice would you offer to those considering a similar path?

I’ve had exceptionally great health all my life and am blessed with more energy than most my age, with a continued passion for finding the right property for the right buyers. My memory hardly lets me down – I can tell stories about the past and what it was like when I bought my section 50 years ago here in Shelly Beach Road. Also, being part of the fantastic family business of Bayleys helps!

Any special plans for the summer?

I’m joining my family in Napier for Christmas like I did last year and can't wait!

cablebay.nz

Sipping on the Dock of the Bay Delicious food, award-winning wine, and breathtaking views.

Our vineyard venue is complex yet elegant, comprising a cellar door, restaurant, function and private dining spaces, and luxury accommodation.

Cable Bay Vineyards welcomes visitors for wine tasting at our cellar door seven days a week. It’s uniquely designed with an arched ceiling inspired by the wine barrels themselves, and full-length windows to reveal our working winery – the perfect spot to sample our award-winning wines. Our friendly and knowledgeable wine specialists can talk you through the vineyard’s winemaking philosophy and tell you everything you want to know about our wines.

Join us for a vineyard tour, a dessert and wine-pairing experience, or an extensive Connoisseur Tasting that includes a cheese and wine tasting in our Wine Library.

The second option is our luxury five-bedroom villa, located just off the vineyard. This grand house is split into two levels. The ground floor comprises a well-equipped kitchen, open living area and formal dining space, with one large double bedroom with gas fireplace and a separate bathroom. All spaces open onto a broad terrace with sheltered outdoor dining, a barbecue, and pool. The upper-level features three spacious double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and two delightful balconies with magnificent bay views.

Both properties border a large native bush area with walking tracks, and you’ll notice the abundant birdlife including tūī, wood pigeons and fantails. If this is your first introduction to the country, you’ll get a great taste of what New Zealand has to offer within a truly luxurious setting.

For a contemporary, elegant-yet-relaxed dining experience, the Verandah restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a few hours in style. Nestled amongst our vineyards and olive trees, the floor-to-ceiling windows frame the stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf to Auckland city; a modern, effortlessly comfortable space with refreshing indoor-outdoor flow and sliding doors that open up over the lawn.

Our menu has been created to please, and our talented head chef, Phillip Smith, sources local ingredients from New Zealand’s finest producers, as well as seasonal produce from our own organic kitchen gardens at the vineyard. The menu features favourites such as wood-fired pizzas and sharing platters, as well as beautifully plated market fish and meat dishes.

Also on offer are two stunning accommodation options.

The first is the one-bedroom guesthouse nestled between established gardens, olive trees and fruit orchards, with sweeping views towards Matiatia Bay, a peaceful sanctuary just a few minutes from Oneroa village. The guesthouse comprises a double bedroom with a large wardrobe and generously sized bathroom with shower and toilet. It’s completely self-contained and equipped with modern appliances, including an espresso machine, washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher.

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December / January

theoysterinn.co.nz

Coastal Elegance Nestled on the captivating Waiheke Island, award-winning beachside bistro, The Oyster Inn, offers a delightful experience with three charming guest rooms. Located in the heart of Oneroa village, it boasts stunning views across the bay, providing the perfect setting for a weekend lunch, a relaxing night away, or a casual drink at the bar with friends.

Featuring a coastal-inspired bistro menu, The Oyster Inn serves simple, delectable dishes, including daily market fish, crisp salads, and beloved crowd-pleasers like fish and chips or mac ‘n’ cheese. Meat lovers can indulge in what may be the island’s finest steak frites. The Oyster Inn takes pride in serving the best oysters, including Waiheke’s own Te Matuku, harvested daily from the shallows of Te Matuku marine reserve.

With a thoughtfully curated wine list showcasing local Waiheke wineries alongside a selection of New Zealand and international wines that complement our menu, you can reserve a table and enjoy the scenic view as you sip away, watching the world—and perhaps a few dolphins—go by.

Find them at 124 Ocean View Road, Oneroa

Buy tickets at sotg.co.nz Image: Brit Bunkley & Andrea Gardner, Afternoon tea / Never odd or even, 2022

Fabric Warranty

72 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna

UV/Fade Resistant

Mold/Mildew Resistant

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Quick-dry Foam

designconcepts.co.nz

The Twin Gable House PHOTOGRAPHY — JOE FLETCHER ARCHITECTS — RYAN LEIDNER ARCHITECTURE

Twin Gable House by Ryan Leidner Architecture sees a comprehensive renovation of the original Eichler Home, designed by A Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons in 1962.

Located in Sunnyvale, a quiet residential community in Silicon Valley, Twin Gable House contains a series of soft, refined living areas.

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Known as Plan OJ-1605, the original design for this Eichler model is an inward-looking courtyard scheme where the living spaces wrap around a central, open-air atrium – the first space one experiences when entering from the carport.

Created for a growing family, the existing post-and-beam construction, open floor plan, and open-air atrium have all been wholeheartedly embraced within the renovation.

December / January

Get the look with Resene

The material consistency creates a light floor that continuously ushers occupants throughout the home.

Resene Rice Cake Resene White Pointer

A large set of pocketing sliding doors allow conversations from the kitchen to flow seamlessly into the living room, before melding with the playful laughter escaping from the pool. It is evident this home is built for family living, the expansive open ground floor plan encouraging time to be shared.

Resene Colorwood Rock Salt on Pine

Home & Design

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December / January

Rooms seemingly blend into one another, with harsh junctions or dramatic distinctions between spaces nowhere to be found. Large-format porcelain tiles in the interior spill out onto the exterior courtyard.

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December / January

The homeowners’ love for gardening doesn’t go unnoticed. Almost every room in the house opens onto the outdoors. Landscape design brings colour and organic shapes into the otherwise crisp lines of the interior. Gardens unfold in lush pockets of greenery, lining the exterior boundary before growing directly out of the centre courtyard of the home.

The resulting energy-efficient four bedroom, two-bathroom house blurs the boundary between interior and exterior living, the garden becoming an essential companion throughout the home.

Get the look with Resene Resene Milk White Resene Eighth Arrowtown Resene Organic

Home & Design

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December / January

Home & Design

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Artis: Homes from Concept to Creation We delve into the world of stylish living with Artis, and chat about their mission to deliver more affordable architecture.

What inspired the creation of Artis, and how would you describe the essence of your brand? Artis evolved to bridge the gap between cookie-cutter homes and fully bespoke architectural designs.

Crafting fun, space-efficient and quality homes that keep a close eye on the budget without sacrificing architectural delight.

In the world of home design, what sets Artis apart from other home design and builds? Our clients design directly with an architectural designer from the outset, at a reduced design fee. We achieve this by offering pre-considered design elements that are customisable to suit each individual’s taste, site and budget. This can be an added bonus as it speeds up the process and limits the amount of decisions to be made while ensuring attention to detail is not lost.

Can you tell us more about the Artis process from concept to build? The initial site visit includes playing with our series of to-scale Artis blocks. These represent different room configurations and are designed to easily stack together in a variety of forms to achieve the best layout for the client and land.

We offer budget guidance upfront, with a mission to provide total project cost clarity from the get-go.

Moving to detailed design, the block layout is transformed into a 3D model and refined over two design workshops.

We encourage our clients’ creativity as they pick-n-mix finishes and design features from our carefully curated material and product samples. This feeds into the final build quote, leading to the Building Consent application and Resource Consent if required.

the benefits, like views and daylight.

Ensure your home functions and flows to suit your lifestyle, considering flexible spaces that can adapt to future changes.

Listing your ‘must-haves’, ‘no-gos’ & ‘nice-to-haves’ can help weigh up design decisions against budget and timeframe.

Best of all, start that Pinterest board, grab some magazines and start curating the look and feel you want to achieve in your home!

“Artis bridges the gap between cookie-cutter homes and bespoke designs, offering fun, space-efficient, and quality homes that prioritize architectural delight within budget constraints.”

What trends or themes do you see emerging in the realm of home architecture and design, and how is Artis adapting to them? Prioritising sustainability, our compact footprints emphasise material efficiency to reduce waste and we are committed to integrating and offering local, natural and recycled products where possible.

We’ve always been a big fan of colour and it seems the rest of the design world is on board too! Artis finishes come in a wide array of colours to suit the maximalist and minimalist alike.

We are always on the lookout for new features whether that’s going off-grid or incorporating AI… watch this space!

Witnessing the vision come to life is such a joyous moment for clients.

We keep them informed and excited throughout the construction, meeting on site at key moments.

Some of the most important considerations when designing / building your new Artis home?

Understanding site constraints such as height restrictions and availability of services, while designing to optimise

artishomes.co.nz

www.hottubs.co.nz

The Ultimate in Relaxation

Discover ultimate relaxation with Colonial Hot Tubs.

Immerse yourself in soothing warmth and let stress just melt away.

Handcrafted right here in New Zealand, our Cedar Hot Tubs are a testament to 50 years of excellence. You can transform your backyard into a haven of tranquility and unlock the incredible potential your outdoor space holds.

Elevate your relaxation game – visit www.hottubs.co.nz today or call us on 0800 468 882 and make every day a tub day. Your perfect escape awaits.

continuous.co.nz

At Continuous Group, we're all about rainwater systems.

That means we focus solely on fascia, spouting, downpipes and rainwater heads.

We believe that installing a high-quality rainwater system requires specialist knowledge and experience ensuring the system fits perfectly with your build.

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

Home & Design

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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.

Trends Kitchens Whether you’re building new or renovating, a new kitchen is an exciting experience that doesn’t happen every day.

At Trends Kitchens our standard is to provide an enjoyable holistic experience, which encompasses the design stages, manufacturing, installation, and aftercare.

We consider all aspects of the process as crucial to ensuring that we exceed our customers’ expectations.

When you meet with our experienced team, you can expect sound advice, support and resources that will help you to best manage your project. Our showrooms present a range of ideas, serving different functions and styles, seamlessly brought together to create a room full of stunning kitchens and home joinery options.

If you’d like to speak with one of our local team, we welcome you to get in touch with them at 26 Cavendish Road, Manukau. Our showroom is open Monday-Saturday, and walk-ins are welcome.

To book a private consultation, see trendskitchens.co.nz or call 09 973 6670

Outdoor Heating Specialists Local craftsmanship in 316 stainless steel, available worldwide.

Contact Kelray Heating Ltd for more kelrayheating.co.nz • 0800 535 729 • info@kelrayheating.co.nz

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December / January

Design of December

Architonic Balance Table Lamp

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STYLING — BELLA SAMPSON

Resene Geo Nordic Wallpaper Collection 37534-3

&Tradition Mega Bulb SR2

Saito Wood Waste Basket with Lid

Artisan Soft Shelf

Artisan Furniture Latus Bed

Danish Red FJ Clock

Norm Architects Side Table

Eilerson Playground Sofa

Design Denmark Flower Vase No.3

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December / January

bostonwardrobes.co.nz

Space for Style Describe Boston Wardrobes in a hashtag.

#elevateyourspace

space. We think that’s great – we want you to love your wardrobe every time you use it!

In your opinion, what are must-haves for a comprehensive wardrobe?

Which accessories and lighting do you recommend for a sleek, modern wardrobe?

The basic components you need to consider are hanging space, shelving, drawers, and shoe space. There are lots of things to consider – for example, hanging space is the most versatile, and drawers add the most cost. Having said that, everyone has different storage needs, so my ideal wardrobe might look very different to yours! We design every wardrobe personalised to a customer's unique requirements.

Can you elaborate on the personalised approach of Boston's process?

Every single wardrobe is different – there are no pre-designed or pre-cut pieces. We sit down and listen to how people use their wardrobes, their current pain points, what they need to store, and the budget they are working with, and then we design each wardrobe based on those specific details.

A pull-out mirror is a great addition, and our hidden sectional jewellery drawers are crowd favourites. LED lighting strips really help to add glam and functionality to a wardrobe.

Which Boston Wardrobe collections are most requested these days and why?

For people with existing wardrobe space, you can’t beat our Flex range, which is the classic floor-mounted system – it’s available in infinite colours and finishes and you will not beat Boston quality. However, we’re seeing huge demand for our Viva systems at the moment, as they do not require existing wardrobe space and can be installed on any blank wall with minimum preparatory work.

What sets Boston Wardrobes apart from the other wardrobe companies?

How has wardrobe design changed in the last 10 years?

Our Auckland showroom is best in class. It’s a 250sqm space that has continuously evolved over time. We have multiple, life-sized walk-ins, reach-ins and standalone wardrobes on display in various colours and finishes, as well as home storage solutions such as laundry and living room. Seeing and feeling the different options gives you a much better idea of what to expect. Every single one of our customers comments on how valuable the showroom visit is to their overall experience.

Additionally, Boston has a rich 35-plus-year history in business, so we have proven you can rely on us to stand by our 10-year warranty and ongoing product support.

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At what point in the renovation or build process should people come to see you?

We would like to see people at the planning stage. Moving a door or wall slightly can be a saviour. Changing the size of the space slightly or the opening of the wardrobe area, which is so easy to do at the right time, is almost impossible to do once building is underway. Even the type of door that can be used might be impacted if we are not part of the plan, because after framing we can’t really change certain things.

The nuts and bolts of a good wardrobe design haven’t changed all that much, but what we are seeing is people wanting to make wardrobes more of a feature of the room, or tied in with the overall interior, rather than something that needs to hide in the background. We’re seeing lots more colour and people getting creative with wallpapers and painted walls in the wardrobe

Auckland’s Oldest Kitchen Maker Established in 1958, Elite Kitchens and Cabinets remains at the forefront of kitchen and cabinetry design and service, servicing commercial and residential markets throughout Auckland, North Waikato, and the Coromandel.

“We work closely with clients to create a functional, customised space to suit individual styles and budgets,” says director Hamish Ross.

Though trends vary, Hamish says most people generally “lean towards either the Hamptons/Country -style or the modern clean lines, with various textures and finishes”. There’s also a move away from the standard safe colours of whites and greys.

“We’re happy to encourage clients and provide them with information regarding their environmental concerns, too,” says Hamish. “While our onsite factory allows clients to view their project prior to installation and to make any last-minute tweaks before installation.”

If you’re thinking about making changes to your kitchen or laundry, contact Elite Kitchens and Cabinets for a free consultation.

Ph: 09 298 8388 Email info@elitekc.co.nz elitekc.co.nz

Aspect Roofing Standing proudly on the Hauraki ridgeline, with expansive views of the gulf and Rangitoto Island, this stately grand dame oozes old-world charm.

This stunning Cape Cod-style villa has been lovingly restored, with the standing seam roof forming a major feature of the exterior design. To achieve this classic look, we chose the Eurostyle Spanlok 450 profile from our trusted supply partner, Roofing Industries, and Colorsteel Ironsand for the material - a perfect match!

Our team thrives on projects like this Bayview revamp which presented a vast array of complex elements: the large dormer windows, numerous skylights and glass panelling over the rear patio each required meticulous flashing work and precise detailing to achieve the stunning finish.

If you're planning an architectural new build or renovation in 2024, contact the team at Aspect Roofing - superior workmanship and service you can trust, guaranteed. aspectroofing.co.nz

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READY TO SELL? C A L L T H E D AYA L S We’re delighted to be recognised by a long list of happy clients as a highly effective, industry-leading sales team with specialist knowledge of Ponsonby and its surrounding suburbs. For expert advice on all local real estate matters, talk to us today.

E R I N D AYA L

021 644 483 | e.dayal@barfoot.co.nz

N E I L D AYA L

027 322 0989 | n.dayal@barfoot.co.nz

Change for Better WORDS — PAUL LEUSCHKE

Architectural design is change.

Some people fight for the built environment to never change, but they are happy to buy a new car, new appliances, new iPhone, new fashion, and so on. In fact, they don’t mind changing their house, but not you changing yours.

Why they fear the neighbourhood changing I have never understood.

I lived in Parnell while it was going through its renewal. The run-down houses and flats were bought up by new young families, the houses repaired or renovated for today’s lifestyle with modern kitchens, ensuites, swimming pools, outdoor access, and garaging.

Gardens were put in.

The feel of the suburb changed to become more alive with families, kids, dogs, and they attracted different shops and cafes.

While some of the new builds may not have been to everyone taste that was the same situation before the renewal. Not every house was pretty. Some of the early renovations were hideous but worked for the then owners. Heritage safeguards also don’t guarantee a pretty result.

I now live in what I thought was Ponsonby, the house being only a block from Ponsonby Road, but is actually Grey Lynn. We competed with younger people prematurely returning from overseas due to the GFC for the house. They had enjoyed living in the inner city on their OE where you walked everywhere,

PAUL LEUSCHKE | 09 974 4601 | 021 894 895

LEUSCHKEKAHN.CO.NZ

to transport, to the shops, but more importantly to the cafe and the pub. They wanted that again so bought a run-down inner-city villa in preference to a newer suburban house. The villa they will do up over time.

It’s a natural cycle of regeneration and it happens in all neighbourhoods.

So, what’s the problem? Run down houses get a much-needed new lease of life, the streets are activated with cafes, life goes on. Yes, the neighbourhood has changed, but it was going to anyway as people move out of the area for work or downsize when the family had left home. paul@leuschkekahn.co.nz

021 894 895

leuschkekahn.co.nz

An Architectural Expression WORDS — MILLY NOLAN Introduced to New Zealand by May Time Marketing, Kristina Dam Studio is a stunning collection of furniture, art prints and sculptures by Danish designer, Kristina Dam. Based in Copenhagen, her designs have a distinct Scandinavian and architectural expression with a strong focus on the aesthetics of function. Kristina explains her work in conversation with us.

How did Kristina Dam Studio come about?

In the beginning, my focus was on creating art through illustrations, deeply rooted in my graphic design background and my love for painting. As I delved deeper into the design world, my curiosity and passion for creating objects that are not only beautiful but also functional grew. As part of my degree at the Royal Academy of Art and Architecture in Copenhagen, I started to experiment with furniture design which opened a new realm of possibilities for me. I wanted to create industrial design with an art-based approach, to make art and interior design merge, both within furniture, accessories, art prints and illustrations.

How would you describe your design ethos?

My design ethos, which I describe as 'sculptural minimalism', has been a guiding principle throughout my designs.

Influenced by movements like Bauhaus and Japanese design, my goal has always been to create pieces that are minimalist yet impactful, functional yet artistic.

Designer Rugs and May Time hosted an industry event in the Grey Lynn showroom recently where they displayed Kristina’s work alongside rugs by Australian designer, Gavin Harris.

materials is integral to my design process, influencing the form, texture, and overall feel of the pieces I create.

Lastly, my background in graphic design and my lifelong passion for painting also feed into my creative process.

The shapes, patterns, and compositions that emerge in my paintings often translate into the design language of Kristina Dam Studio's products.

What do you love the most about your job?

What I cherish most about my job is the ability to create and bring to life designs that blend art and functionality. There is an immense satisfaction in seeing an idea evolve from a mere concept into a tangible product that people can interact with and incorporate into their lives. This process of creation and the journey from imagination to reality is deeply fulfilling.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

My inspiration is drawn from a diverse array of sources, with a deep-rooted influence coming from architecture and art. The blend of refined and raw architectural elements in Copenhagen, alongside its legacy in sleek Scandinavian design, has been a significant influence on my work.

I also love to travel and explore different cultures and environments, absorbing the architectural and artistic nuances of various places around the world. These experiences often find a way into my work, enriching it with a global perspective.

I am also influenced by materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and long-lasting, such as wood, marble, and steel. The tactile nature of these

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Designer Rugs was thrilled to open its showroom doors recently to the launch of the new Kristina Dam furniture collection in collaboration with May Time.

Kristina’s sculptural minimalism translates impeccably with our latest rug collections.

Including Gavin Harris ‘Circadian’ collection, which comprises of four stunning designs that beautifully capture the essence of how time influences movement and change, creating simplicity around layering and texture.

Designers and Architects were given a chance to see the unity between these two great brands emulate through their showcasing, providing great insight and inspiration.

May Time enquiries P 09 526 4274 maytime.co.nz Designer Rug enquiries P 09 300 6116 designerrugs.nz

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architektur.co.nz

Builder of Dreams Designed as “a beach house in the city” by boutique architectural firm Architektur, 202 Riddell Road, in Glendowie, was recently bestowed a Regional Award from the Architectural Designers of New Zealand.

Verve caught up with company founder, Scott Fowler, to learn about his awardwinning design, and more.

Home & Design

low-pitched roof that reveals trees beyond.

Scott says that it was essential to consider the site’s diagonal slope.

“The answer was in breaking the U-shape into three subtly separate levels,” he says, “with just three steps between each.”

“The clients had purchased a 30-year-old olive tree which became the focus of the courtyard. The paving of the courtyard is the same as the interior tiles so when the doors are open, there’s a seamless transition between inside and out.”

As fans of modernist architecture, the clients desired an “exquisite glass box” with exposed material finishes to create that coastal-meets-urban feel. The site’s sunny disposition is further enhanced by the central courtyard, deliberately positioned to capture the maximum rays.

Indeed, it was the U-shaped design that particularly impressed the judges, who also expressed admiration for the southern stone wall beneath a floating

“That sunlight is absorbed by the solid porcelain floor tiles and highly insulated slab below in the morning, and then radiates that heat back into the space

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during the evening. The abundance of glass is low e-double glazed to retain as much heat in winter and reduce heat gain in summer.”

With over 30 years’ industry experience – including a stint in Switzerland, which inspired the name Architektur – Scott knows what works best well beyond the confines of an architecture studio. He has a Master of Urban Design and spent five years in the development market, buying and project managing a number of sites zoned for high density housing, including a block of 14 studio units.

He has also renovated several homes, including major internal and external alterations, as well as subdividing and building new homes on new sites.

Though such extracurricular experience proved invaluable in offering “a deep insight into the entire development process”, Scott admits that he was lured back to the purity of architectural design and “what I do best”.

“No matter what the project – a new home, a bach, renovation or alteration – being a small, locally-owned business allows me to truly value the personal touch,” he says. “I’m happy to take on smaller jobs sometimes overlooked by larger firms. It’s all about dedicating myself to clients, and making their dreams come true.”

SCOTT’S PROCESS

· A free, 1- to 2-hour consultation. · Scott will then prepare a preliminary report, including a proposed fee. · Next, a sketch design comprises drawing of floor and site plans, along with a pair of hand-drawn perspective sketches of the proposed build. · The developed design phase includes the development of accurate plans and exterior elevations, establishment of materials, and layouts for the bathrooms and kitchen and any other highly detailed areas. · If resource consent is required, details are added to the drawings and documentation in advance of lodging the application. · Building consent is required for most projects, comprising detailed construction drawings and a specification describing the standards of workmanship. · Project documentation is also likely required, which involves finalising finishing details, including electrical plans, finalising bathroom and kitchen details and all additional drawings required for construction. · And finally, procurement and building.

“I will be on hand to do regular construction observations,” says Scott, “or can simply clarify any of the drawings and documentation that I have provided, saving you additional fees.”

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Eco-Friendly Composite Decking Send us your plans or dimensions and we will provide a decking layout design free of charge!

CONTACT US FOR SALES & INSTALLATION INFORMATION

BiForm New Zealand 0800 449 274 • biform.co.nz

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A wide range of colours Available in three sizes and seven different colours, we have a board for your situation.

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Contact us to discuss available Auckland franchise opportunities.

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kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Traditional Inspiration Perched above a clifftop overlooking Campbell’s Bay, this coastal home was built with an award-winning Hamptons-inspired traditional theme with the help of Kitchens by Design.

Award-winning designer Michelle Gillbanks says she sought to enhance the new build’s airiness and seaside view with her reimagining of the kitchen and master bathroom. “Working closely with the architect and the builder was paramount,” she says, “as the building evolved and grew into an intricate work of art.”

The “tone-on-tone” open kitchen comprises traditional panelled doors glass-fronted display units, a functional scullery for food preparation, and decorative posts, all finished in a heavenly, crisp white.

“Due to my client’s love of colourful knick-knacks which she wanted displayed throughout the home, we kept everything in one colour, using the very formal design, with strong lines and Home & Design

detailing to bring it to life,” says Michelle.

“Resene Black White is everywhere, including the cabinetry, benchtop, and bathtub. Most important was having a seamless flow of design elements throughout the rest of the home, which we achieved by our attention to every detail in all the spaces we created.”

As for the bathroom – bestowed silver at the DNKBA Awards – it’s “glamourous vibe” says the designer, “makes you feel special from the moment you walk in”: “It’s spacious, with generous proportions that envelop you, while the nautically inspired homewares give interest and the personal touch.”

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throughout the home. The wall panelling and dado heights had to be taken into consideration, as well as the ceiling details and oversized architraves.

“We managed to recess the mirror cabinet, giving more storage, and put a Concelo rubbish bin in the centre drawer in the vanity,” adds Michelle.

“This space has become my client’s favourite place to relax and unwind at the end of the day – with panoramic views of Rangitoto Island from her bathtub, I can totally see why.”

Kitchens By Design's showroom is located at 9 Melrose Street, Newmarket. For inspiration, take a look at some fabulous projects at kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Visit our showroom, by appointment.

9 Melrose St, Newmarket (09) 379 3084

Hamptons inspired traditional masterpiece kitchensbydesign.co.nz

RB73 creates beautiful & timeless handmade outdoor fireplaces and accessories. No terrace without a fire!

outdoorconcepts.co.nz

0800 266 206

Curated Christmas A seasonal collection of considered gifts.

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1. Lisa Hoskin Ingrid Drop Earrings Crystal Mix + Geneva Necklace Aquamarine 2. Miller Road Luxury Christmas Candle 3. Jens Hansen The Golden Kiwi In White, Yellow Or Red Gold 4. French Country Collections Seafoam at Palm Beach Glass Candle 5. Figursky Jewellery Etta Ring 6. Blunt Kenita-Lee Classic 7. Coast Isla Chair in Blend Sage

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1. Autophagy Skincare Facial Hydrator 2. Allium Coeur De Lion Bracelets 3. French Country Collections Ribbed Bauble Candle Large 4. The Diamond Shop Radiant Full Hoop Eternity, Bespoke Yellow Diamond Pinky Ring and Round Brilliant Diamond Eternity 5. Nicholas Jermyn Agatha Print Shirt 6. Coast Laguan Linen Towel Navy Stripe 7. French Country Collections Dragonfly Rectangle Box 8. Sydney Beauty Raaie Sun Milk Drops Tinted SPF 50+ 9. Figursky Jewellery Jessie Ring Bespoke POR 10. Tuberose Neom Great Day Scrub Texture

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1. Tuberose Miffy and Friends Lights By Mr Maria 2. Miller Road Bespoke Fragrance Workshop Voucher 3. Lisa Hoskin Aquamarine Cube Drop Earrings 4. Nicholas Jermyn Morgan Stripe Shirt 5. Yuva Turkish Rug and Kilims 6. Studio of Tableware Eisch Bonaparte Decanter 7. Figursky Aquamarine Baguette Ring 8. Tuberose Italian White Moss Range

By Acca Kappa

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1. The Diamond Shop Sienna Round Brilliant Diamond Necklace and Sienna Oval Brilliant Diamond Necklace 2. French Country Collections White Beaded Photo Frame 8x10” 3. Studio of Tableware Paderno Copper Barware 4. Miller Road Lavender Pillow Mist Christmas Cracker 5. Studio of Tableware iittala Alvar Aalto Moss Green Vase 6. Coast Weekender In Fern 7. Lisa Hoskin Wave Hoop Earrings - Gold 8. Strangely Normal Mid Century Modern Short Sleeved Shirt, Limited Edition, Made in NZ 9. Tuberose Striped Street Bag by Inoui Editions

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REMUERA + ST HELIERS

INDOOR & OUTDOOR LANTERNS IN STORE AND ONLINE! 62a Benson Rd, Remuera, Auckland 1050, P. 09 5222 991 The Bay Tree of St Heliers, 15 St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers, Auckland 1071, P. 021 372 991 Open 7 days · thebaytree.co.nz

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3 1. Tuberose Fan hoops by Charlotte Penman 2. Yuva Turkish Kilim Cushion Cover - 60 x 40cm 3. Studio of Tableware Rosenthal Grand Air Serving Bowl 4. French Country Collections Etched Bauble Candle Large 5. Nicholas Jermyn Linen Dress White and Silk Scarf 6. Yuva Turkish Pom Pom Towel Range 7. Studio of Tableware Sambonet Flat PVD Champagne Cutlery 8. Allium Flint Electric Lighter

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1+2. Burger Burger & Sawmill’s You Do Yuzu Hazy Pale Ale 3. Atelier Shu Canelé Party Share Pack 4. Atelier Shu Japanese Style Strawberry Shortcake 5. Allium Tippl Cocktail Infusions 6. Fine Wine Delivery Laurent Perrier 7. Besos Margarita Clasica 700ml and Besos Chilli Salt 8. No.1 Family Estate No.1 Reine Cuvée Reserve Marlborough Méthode Traditionelle NV 9. Studio of Tableware Riedel Bar DSG Glassware 10. No.1 Family Estate No.1 Rosé Marlborough Méthode Traditionelle NV 11. Chantal Organics + Bread & Butter Christmas Charity Cookies

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FOUNDRY CHOCOLATE

COOK THE BOOKS

Foundry Chocolate celebrates and accentuates the remarkable personalities of the world’s finest cacao by crafting and ageing micro-batches of award-winning bean-to-bar craft chocolate, from scratch. This Christmas, they’ve exquisitely gift-wrapped bespoke collections of divine single-origin craft chocolate, ready for the foodie in your life.

Explore cookery treasures at Cook The Books’ new location, 78 Kelmarna Ave (cnr Trinity St), Herne Bay. Whether a loyal customer or a first-time visitor, the revamped space promises a culinary journey and delightful inspiration in their extensive cook book collection. Plus, check out their new website for an enhanced cooking adventure.

foundrychocolate.co.nz

cookthebooks.co.nz

Perfects gifts, all wrapped up.

11c Teed St, Newmarket www.allium.co.nz

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Eclectic Gifting

Tuberose is an eclectic gifts, homeware and design boutique. Showcasing beautiful international products, including a collection of French-designed scarves, beach towels, sarongs and handbags by Inoui Editions.

Unique, hand-drawn creations influenced by nature, enchanted tales, history and the streets of France, these pieces of art are made in India using ancestral techniques passed down from many generations.

Cotton, silk, wool, and leather are used to bring their extraordinary ideas to manifestation.

Tuberose will open 7 days from December, visit online at tuberose.co.nz

Celebrate the magic of Christmas in Parnell!

Local artists FLOX and Jemma Ennis are showcasing their magnificent art created for our new one-of-a-kind Christmas installation called ‘Beacons of Light’. A play with vibrant colour and speaking to a quintessential ‘Kiwi Christmas’, to see such beautiful art lit up, standing 2.5 metres high right in front of your eyes, will truly be something special.

While you’re in Parnell celebrating the season or doing a spot of Christmas shopping, head to Heard Park between 1-26 December to enjoy this commissioned installation designed to bring happiness and hope into the 2023 festive season.

Christmas in Parnell Bespoke, considered, thoughtful parnell.net.nz

HERBERT &WILKS - - JEWELLERY - -

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herbertandwilks.co.nz I @herbertandwilks

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With all Due Respect

WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Disagreeing is an essential aspect of any functioning democracy.

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Research by the University of Chicago found that the more polarised the teams editing Wikipedia political pages, the higher the quality of their work.

Though Socrates was, to say the least, sceptical about the practicalities of democratic government, he was responsible for what Agnes Callard, associate professor of philosophy at the University of Chicago and an expert on the ancient Greeks, calls the ‘adversarial division of epistemic labour’, a founding cornerstone of Western thought. This is perhaps best demonstrated in a courtroom where it’s one side’s job to put forth an argument for the opposing side to attempt to disprove, civilly!

In everyday life, however, that’s easier said than done.

According to a group of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, and community members and organisations, the recent referendum across the ditch concerning the Voice to Parliament “unleashed a tsunami of racism”. Before the vote – which rejected the proposal to change the constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia – research had found Australians to already be more polarised than ever. According to the

Edelman Trust Barometer, nearly half of Aussies feel their nation is more divided today than in the past, while 76% of those surveyed admitted to being less likely to help someone who strongly disagreed with their views.

Of course, it’s not just an Australian problem. Studies show record levels of division in many developed nations, often driven by economic fear and political distrust, with countries such as the US, the UK, France, Sweden, Spain, and Germany considered either already “severely polarised” or well on their way there. Though not (yet?) at those levels, a recent report by Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures found polarisation to be on the rise in Aotearoa New Zealand, fuelled by a breakdown in trust that was sadly epitomised by the 2022 occupation of Parliament.

Misinformation is a growing problem.

Studies have shown that people are more influenced by ‘who’ is expressing their views on social media rather than the reliability or truthfulness of that person’s actual views. Speaking at an event earlier in the year, in Sydney, the

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The only way you can learn and grow is to listen to – and respect – all perspectives.

former US president Barack Obama insisted that “shifts in the media and the story that is told to people” had propelled polarisation, and singled out Rupert Murdoch’s media empire for leading the charge in making people “angry and resentful”, adding that “it’s very difficult to compromise around identity politics”.

In his book, Conflicted: Why Arguments Are Tearing Us Apart and How They Can Bring Us Together – described as a “self-help book for the world” – author Ian Leslie laments how “people with differing views seem to find it increasingly hard to argue productively,” which is leading to “a roadblock to progress”. Rather than eliminate conflict, Leslie argues that we should master “productive disagreements” that “neither reinforce nor eradicate a difference, but make something new out of it”. Because, the only thing worse than having hateful arguments “is not having arguments at all”.

So, with the festive season upon us, here are some top tips on how to keep things civil and handle any toxicity around the table this Christmas – especially so soon after the general election!

• Listen, listen, listen! Don’t just jump straight in with your alreadyformulated responses or opinions.

Listen actively and attentively, with no interruption or prejudice, and show that you value the opinions of others.

• Keep calm… then carry on! Raised voices get you nowhere. Express your disagreements calmy and with composure. Avoid aggressive language – especially swearing! – and state your opinions clearly.

• Play the ball, not the man (or woman). Keep things centred around the topic, not the person expressing their opinions. Don’t attack their character, and focus on what you feel or believe, rather than saying that what they think is wrong.

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• Give kudos. You're bound to share some common ground, even with your worst enemy! Acknowledge when the person you’re debating makes a valid point, this helps steer things towards compromise.

• Remain open-minded. The only way you can learn and grow is to listen to – and respect – all perspectives. Accept that other people’s viewpoints are as valid as your own – unless they’re promoting the likes of bigotry or violence, obviously. Which leads us on to the final point…

• Know when the fight’s over. If things are getting too heated or unproductive, then step away and take a break. Some things are better revisited, or maybe never revisited at all. Always try to end on a positive note, especially at Christmas.

Good luck!

AKT I V WO R X .CO.N Z 0 9 4 8 9 7 33 5 S H O P 1 0 1-7 TH E STR AN D TA K A P UN A

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1. Paris Georgia 07 Micah Bodice In Basil 2. Paris Georgia 07 Otto Bodysuit | Butter 3. Norma Kamali Diana Gown 4. Simon Miller White Molded Heart Bag 5. Stella Mccartney Milly Sequined Stretch-Jersey Turtleneck Mini Dress 6. Kiko Kostadinov Blue Amlen Bag 7. Self-Portrait CrystalEmbellished Ombre Stretch-Mesh Maxi Dress 8. Alice + Olivia Nelle Sequined Mesh Mini Dress 9. Ganni Off-White Butterfly Bag 10. Mach & Mach Blue Medium Double Bow Samantha Bag

Dreamy Styles Wrap yourself in bedtime luxury with these cozy and colorful sleepwear picks.

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1. Skims Cotton Poplin Sleep Pant & Button Up Shirt 2. Sandy Liang Subu Slippers In White Strawberry 3. Olivia Von Halle Fifi Silk-Satin Pajama Set 4. Suicoke White KAW-Cab Sandals 5. Sleeper + Net Sustain FeatherTrimmed Satin Pajama Set 6. Olivia Von Halle Reversible silk-satin eye mask 7. Desmond & Dempsey+ Net

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Sustain Printed Linen Pajama Set 8. Sleeper Feather-Trimmed Striped Crepe Pajama Set 9. Yume Yume Beige Truck Slides 10. Skims Soft

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modes.co.nz

A Fashion Legacy Diane Stephenson, founder of Iconic bridal and event wear store, Modes, celebrates 40 years in the business and a move to Newmarket’s recently established Roxborough hub.

Diane can you tell our readers a little about yourself?

I set up my business with the intention of incorporating only the best fabrics and cuts. I remember approaching the Miss Deb Cinnamon and Peppertree labels by just turning up to their showrooms as a 25-year-old for a chat! Maurice Mihotich, who remains a close friend, later said that he had no idea how “this kid persuaded him to supply her”. Decades later the “team have never looked back.

My father commented to colleagues that I was “the brave one”.

The fashion industry is certainly not for the faint hearted.

My friends say I’m kind reliable have excellent taste and dry humour. I’d say my strengths are my ability to “not mind the pain”, a good work ethic and problem solving. For me social media is as ridiculous as vaping. It must be my science back ground I only do real and sustainable.

You have sustained your business for 40 years what is the secret?

There is a tactile richness in event product that is appealing.

In retail ladies’ fashion, you’re basically reinventing yourself several times a year – one never gets bored. It’s a passion.

What inspired you to get into bridal and event clothing?

Originally, we did coats, knitwear, and business-, corporate.

Once the Australian chains arrived, we were putting coats on sale in the coldest months. Event wear is less seasonal and there was less competition as it is a little more complicated.

You’re now moving to 26 McColl St to have your bridal and event wear all under one roof, you must be excited?

Yes, it’s still in Newmarket, so very central, and I’m sure having the workroom, event and bridal together will be more manageable – and economical. The car park for appointment clients a big plus.

Fashion

How has the industry evolved during the last 40 years?

Our European supplier has an incredible selection of bridal wear that’s good value, with far more shades, innovation in design and fabric with incredible attention to detail. For event wear and black tie and ball wear, it’s the fabrics that have evolved most.

Do you dress the entire bridal party?

Only the female members! But we are probably the only location in New Zealand where they can all come together.

We can do a little ‘surgery’ in our workroom to ensure the perfect fits and we also make Jackets etc or trim hair pieces to complete the look. The exclusivity of our collections ensures that no guest turns up in the mother of the bride outfit, which is a big danger in when purchasing from a chain store as New Zealand is such a small place. Our exclusivity allows us to curate unique ensembles for a diverse range of events If a bride wants a fully coordinated wedding party, then fabric from our European supplier can be sourced to match the bride’s look. There have been some very cute flower girls over the years, particularly the ones we did to open and close Bridal Fashion Week – they have been framed as a memento. Assuming the discerning bride has an excellent photographer, the perfect gown that works well with the venue and her style, figure and height will ensure that the photos are something to treasure and admire forever. The new European styled fashion haven a must for those seeking effortless sophistication in their event attire.

26 McColl Street, Newmarket

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CUSTOM SUITING

BY NICHOLAS JERMYN E N J O Y F U L L C U S T O M I S AT I O N .

NO MINIMUMS REQUIRED.

T H E S I L K C O L L EC T I O N Timeless, refined style using the highest quality fabrication and artisanal workmanship to deliver an impeccable fit.

nicholasjermyn.co.nz

Style woven with stories of Cornwall

Open: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:30pm Sunday 10:00am - 5:00pm 24 Milford Road, Milford Centre, Auckland

Step instore and embrace our new 2024 Summer Collection PONSONBY 6 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Auckland

WWW.FRENCHCOUNTRY.CO.NZ

NEWMARKET 34 Morrow Street, Newmarket, Auckland

A Festive Setting WORDS— MILLY NOLAN

The festive spirit of Christmas is drawing near, and with it comes the chance to set your tables and deck your halls.

Even the most seasoned hosts find themselves in a merry conundrum when it comes to adorning the Christmas table.

Shall one grace it with the finest silver, crystal, and heirloom china, or dare to veer from tradition with natural hues, soft linens, and seasonal blooms? Fear not, for in the realm of decorating styles – be it minimalistic, contemporary, or eclectic – the sleigh’s open for all (providing there’s no tinsel of yesteryear in sight).

To help you along the way, here are a few tips for a Christmas table worthy of Saint Nick himself.

1. Establish a clear theme or colour scheme and stick with it.

Whether you go bright and cheerful, or neutral and muted, let go of the idea that Christmas has to be done a certain way.

Limit your palette to a maximum of three complementary colours.

2. Let the centrepiece steal the show – whether it is lush foliage, twinkling candles, flower-filled vases, seasonal fruits, or a mix of all of these elements. Make sure to arrange them thoughtfully so that your guests can chat across the table without any obstructions. Decorative bowls of seasonal berries and chocolates also make an appealing centrepiece that guests can enjoy.

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December / January

IMAGE: rizzoliusa.com IMAGE: FROM THE WORLD AT YOUR TABLE BY STEPHANIE STOKES (RIZZOLI)

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IMAGE: FROM THE WORLD AT YOUR TABLE BY STEPHANIE STOKES (RIZZOLI)

3. Flowers or seasonal foliage is a must for every Christmas table. For festive flair, add pinecones, mistletoe, or boughs of holly, or enhance the table’s allure and aroma with sprigs of rosemary, bay leaves, or eucalyptus. With flowers, whether you stick to a single type and colour, or prefer an array of types and hues - the choice is entirely yours.

4. Elevate the setting with high-quality tablecloths or runners paired with placemats and elegant napkins. Create your own napkin rings by tying the napkins with ribbon and sprigs of greenery, or place folded napkins atop plates, adorning them with Christmas decorations or Christmas crackers.

5. Add a personal touch with handwritten place cards and Christmas crackers at each setting – the perfect icebreaker amongst guests. For extra holiday cheer, consider small edible treats or thoughtful gifts for each attendee.

6. Embrace a rustic charm or eclectic vibe by blending a mixture of crockery and glassware styles. Alternatively, uphold an air of sophistication and sleek elegance by sticking to matching sets.

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7. Along with the necessary cutlery, make sure every place setting is equipped with the essentials – a wine glass, water glass and a champagne flute for toasting the occasion.

8. Illuminate the table with candles, tealights, or lanterns along its centre or suspend them overhead to create a warm, charming ambience.

9. Avoid over-decorating and cluttering the table; less is more for a balanced and sophisticated look.

10. Lastly, step back and admire your masterpiece. Make sure it looks balanced and visually appealing from all angles, adding any final adjustments as needed.

December / January

Taste Let’s & Drink Eat Out Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL gives his views on two of Campo Viejo’s new releases.

Spain is a hot and dry country with more vine-growing land than any other winemaking nation on Earth. After France and Italy, Spain is the third-largest wine producer in the world.

Long recognised as an underachiever, Spanish winemaking has awakened from a deep sleep and today is one of the most vibrant producers of red wines in Europe with Rioja, Spain’s premier winegrowing region, leading the charge with its highly acclaimed reds.

Rioja has enjoyed a long tradition of winegrowing dating back to the Roman Empire. This knowledge has been handed down through generations of winemakers who are masters of producing some of the world’s most unique and complex red wines.

Campo Viejo is among the leading brands of the Rioja winemaking region. Situated in the heart of the Rioja, it comprises 37 hectares of undulating vineyards planted on a magnificent plateau overlooking Ebro Valley with amazing views across all four corners of the compass.

‘21 Campo Viejo Rioja tempranillo; RRP $18.

Deep colour and low acidity combined with rich aromas. With its intensely bright and lively fruity flavours, this is Spain’s answer to greatness. Serve with roast pork, beef, venison, pasta, and barbeque meats.

‘16 Campo Viejo Rioja gran reserve; RRP $35.

A rich and satisfying trio with great balance that has been aged for five years, two of which in oak. This is an excellent blend and a true reflection of wine from the Rioja region. Pair with beef, lamb, pork, and lasagne.

Food & Wine

DENNIS and ROSAMUND KNILL It isn’t the dated fitout that continues to draw the crowds, Tanto swims against the tide with precision and attention to detail that makes for some interesting Asian cuisine.

A nondescript shopping strip in Epsom is not the obvious place to seek boundary-pushing Japanese food, but owner Mitsukuni Shibuya’s vision explains Tanto’s hidden treasure status and why he has a loyal following that money can’t buy. Diners can choose to eat a la carte or from a set menu from a kitchen that finds plenty of room to flex its muscles with passion and intensity.

Apart from mains there’s an array of entrée-sized Japanese standards from a menu that changes regularly.

One the night, we sampled pan fried pork and vegetable dumplings ($13.50); feather-like tempura prawn twisters with mayo sauce ($12); fresh tuna served with tartare sauce ($18); marinated fried chicken thigh ($20); and seared salmon ($24). All are melt-in-your-mouth culinary delights.

For something a bit more substantial, there are mains of tempura, pan-fried, and crumbed dishes, tofu and seaweed salads, and some of the finest sashimi and sushi ($21-$54). Although Japanese cuisine can be a little thin on the ground, the dishes were delightfully and theatrically presented. Desserts please rather than wow – pick of the sweets were chocolate brownies or baked apple ($17).

The wine list moves through a good selection of local and imported vintages by the bottle and glass, together with a range of Japanese and European beers to mix and match the food. Otherwise, you can sip your way through a range of sake.

And the verdict? With Auckland littered with Asian eateries, Tanto remains one of the most popular and sought after Japanese restaurants in the city focusing on what’s served on the plate. For gourmands, their sushi night is a monthly event not to be missed. And what a difference good floor staff make with service that is all smiles, calm and orderly.

Menu: 7; cuisine: 8; wine list: 7; service: 8; decor: 7; value for money: 8.

250 Manukau Road, Epsom. Phone 09 522 2300.

Open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday; licensed. tanto.co.nz

Festive Recipes & Al Fresco Delights

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December / January

Courgette, Chickpea & Feta Salad

Serves:

4

Prep:

15 mins

Cook:

25 mins

This salad is delicious warm as a light dinner, or at room temperature when on a picnic. The beauty of it is that the flavours get better the longer it sits. I like to eat it with some peppery wild rocket leaves, served on the side (keeping it separate stops the leaves wilting on the way to the picnic).

Ingredients

Method

5 tbsp olive oil 2 courgettes, cut into chunks zest of ¼ unwaxed lemon, sliced into thin strips 2 red onions, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 red chilli, sliced into rounds ½ tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp cumin seeds 2 × 400g cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tbsp sherry vinegar (it sounds like a lot, but it works!)

200g feta cheese (vegetarian, if you prefer), diced 1 handful coriander leaves, torn 1 handful mint leaves, torn sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 100g wild rocket (optional), to serve

Heat 2 tbsp of the olive oil in a large frying pan over a mediumhigh heat. Add the courgette, season with salt and pepper and cook until the courgette is just starting to soften and colour, about 3 minutes. Add the lemon zest and cook for 1 minute more until the aroma of the lemon comes through, then tip the contents of the pan into a large bowl.

Return the pan to the heat and add the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil, the onions, garlic and chilli, giving everything a good stir.

Roughly crush the coriander and cumin seeds in a pestle and mortar, then stir them into the pan. Cook for 1 minute, then add the chickpeas, season with salt and cook, stirring regularly, until the onions have softened, about 10 minutes (reduce the heat if it’s starting to catch and burn).

Pour in the vinegar and cook for a further 2 minutes or so, until the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat and gently fold the oniony chickpea mixture into the courgettes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to cool.

Once at room temperature, gently toss the feta and herbs into the salad and transfer to the container you will be taking it to the picnic in. The salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Pack a bag of rocket in your cool bag, to add to the salad before serving.

Foolproof Picnic by Marina Filippelli, published by Quadrille, RRP $34.99 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: LAURA EDWARDS

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Beetroot Speltotto with Goat’s Cheese and Chicory

Serves:

4

I’m usually the one saying, ‘Cook your beetroot whole!’ and ‘Leave the skin on!’ but in this recipe I’m going to tell you to do the exact opposite: ‘Peel the beetroot and cut them up into little cubes.’ I’m doing this because the beetroot gets cooked in the same way you’d cook a risotto, so you don’t lose flavour.

I’m using pearled spelt instead of a short-grain rice, although pearled barley also works well. Take your time and make sure you have a tasty stock (you can add the beetroot peelings to the stock if you like, just strain them out before you use the liquid). I like to finish the speltotto with chicory leaves – their bitter edge goes so well with the sweetness of the beetroot. I also crumble over soft goat’s cheese, but you could use ricotta instead.

Ingredients

Method

50g butter 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for trickling 4 red beetroot (beets), peeled and cut into 5–10mm cubes 1 onion, finely diced 2 celery sticks, cut into 2–3mm dice 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed finely grated zest of ½ lemon 150g pearled spelt, rinsed 175ml medium-dry (hard) cider 750ml hot vegetable stock 50g hard goat’s, cow’s or sheep’s cheese, grated 2 small chicory heads sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Place a large heavy-based saucepan over a medium-hot fire.

Add half the butter and the extra-virgin olive oil and when it’s all bubbling away, add the beetroot (beets), onion, celery, garlic, fennel seeds and lemon zest. Season with some salt and pepper and stir well. Fry everything gently for 6–8 minutes, until the vegetables are beginning to soften and smell sweet.

To serve

100g goat’s cheese or ricotta a handful of chervil (optional)

Get a bit more heat under the pan and add the spelt, stir, and add the cider, letting it bubble away for a minute or so. Start adding the hot stock, a ladleful at a time, stirring continuously.

(It’s important to stir everything really well.) When the spelt has absorbed the stock, add some more and stir again. Repeat until you have used up all the stock. Drop in the remaining butter and grated cheese. Stir well, until the butter and cheese have melted.

Trim the base from the chicory heads and separate the leaves.

Give them a quick rinse then arrange the leaves over the top of the speltotto. Remove the pan from the heat. Crumble over the goat’s cheese or ricotta and strew the top with chervil, if you’re using it. Season with plenty of salt and pepper and trickle with extra-virgin olive oil. Serve straight from the pan.

Outside by Gill Meller, published by Quadrille, RRP $65.00 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: ANDREW MONTGOMERY

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Giant Couscous Salad with Saffron-Roasted Tomatoes & Beetroot Serves:

4–6

Prep:

20 mins

Cook:

45 mins

This salad is deliciously rich and generous, with earthy, punchy flavours. I serve it with Greek yoghurt and harissa on the side, or pair it with the Labneh, Dukkah, Salted Cucumber and Radishes, and perhaps a couple of dips.

Ingredients

Method

600g medium tomatoes, halved 400g smallish raw beetroot, cut into thin wedges 3 garlic cloves, sliced 1 red chilli, finely sliced large pinch of saffron strands 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp honey 200g giant wholemeal (whole wheat) couscous 1 preserved lemon, halved, inner flesh discarded and rind thinly sliced (if you can’t find preserved lemons, finely grate an unwaxed lemon and season the zest with salt before using instead) 20g dill, roughly chopped ½ lemon sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 200ºC (180ºC fan). Put the tomatoes and beetroot in a roasting tin (pan) into which they fit comfortably in a single layer. Add the garlic and chilli, then sprinkle in the saffron strands, breaking them between your fingers as you go.

Drizzle in 2 tbsp of the olive oil, the honey, season with salt and pepper and toss well to combine.

To serve

Greek yoghurt harissa

Rearrange the tomatoes, making sure they are all sitting cutside-up, and roast for 40–45 minutes, or until the beetroot is tender and the tomatoes are looking gorgeously rich and soft.

Set aside to cool. Don’t worry if the beetroot still has a little bite; it will carry on cooking in its own heat as it cools.

Meanwhile, tip the couscous into a medium pan and toast it over a medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until it begins to colour. Add 400ml (1¾ cups) water, season with salt and bring to the boil. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes until the water has been absorbed. Give the couscous a good stir, cover again and set aside off the heat for 10 minutes for the couscous to steam in its own heat.

Transfer the couscous to a large bowl and stir in the preserved lemon rind, remaining 3 tbsp olive oil and half the dill. Squeeze in the juice of the ½ lemon. Toss well to make sure the couscous is well coated and taste, adjusting the seasoning if it needs it.

Cover and keep chilled; it will keep for up to 1 day at this stage.

Just before heading out for your picnic, spoon the saffronroasted vegetables and their juices over the couscous and scatter with the remaining dill. Enjoy with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and some harissa on the side.

Foolproof Picnic by Marina Filippelli, published by Quadrille, RRP $34.99 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: LAURA EDWARDS

100

Asparagus & Gruyère Tartlets

Makes:

4

Prep:

10 mins

Cook:

25 mins

These are so quick to make, especially if you buy ready-rolled pastry. The recipe makes 4 tartlets, which would serve 2 people if you’re not serving much else.

If you’re eating them as part of a larger spread, 1 tart per person will be plenty.

Ingredients

Method

1 × 320g sheet ready-rolled puff pastry, defrosted if frozen 4 tbsp crème fraîche 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tbsp chopped tarragon 50g gruyère, grated (or flavourful vegetarian hard cheese) 400g asparagus 1 tbsp olive oil 1 egg, lightly beaten with a fork sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 200ºC (180ºC fan).

Unroll the puff pastry onto a baking tray (sheet pan) and cut it into 4 equal rectangles.

In a bowl, combine the crème fraîche, Dijon, garlic, tarragon and gruyère. Season with black pepper (no need for salt – there’s enough in the cheese). Spread the gruyère mixture over the pastry rectangles, leaving a 2cm border.

Snap the woody ends off the asparagus and discard them. Put the asparagus in a bowl and drizzle over the olive oil. Season, toss well to coat the spears in the oil, then divide them evenly between the tartlets. Brush the pastry border with the beaten egg and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Cool on the tray over a cooling rack. Wait until the tarts are completely cooled before packing them for your picnic.

Foolproof Picnic by Marina Filippelli, published by Quadrille, RRP $34.99 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: LAURA EDWARDS

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Parma Ham & Buffalo Mozzarella with Spring Vegetables Serves:

4-6

Prep:

5 mins

Cook:

10 mins

Salty Parma ham with sweet, milky buffalo mozzarella is a marriage made in heaven. Add to that some simply dressed spring vegetables and you have a sunny, light picnic salad.

Ingredients

Method

250g asparagus spears 100g fresh or frozen peas 100g fresh or frozen broad beans 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to drizzle 1 unwaxed lemon 2 tbsp roughly chopped tarragon 2 buffalo mozzarella balls 8 slices Parma ham sea salt and freshly ground black pepper crusty bread, to serve

Snap the woody ends off the asparagus and discard them. Cook the asparagus in a pan of salted boiling water for 1 minute, then add the peas and broad beans and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Drain and refresh under cold running water.

Tip the blanched vegetables into a large bowl and toss through the olive oil, the grated zest of ½ lemon and the tarragon.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and transfer to an airtight container. Keep chilled until you leave for your picnic; the salad can be prepared to this stage quite a few hours ahead, but I wouldn’t leave it overnight.

To serve, transfer the dressed vegetables to a large platter. Use your hands to tear the buffalo mozzarella and plate it next to the vegetables, draping the ham next to it. Drizzle the dish with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice and add a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Enjoy with some crusty bread.

Foolproof Picnic by Marina Filippelli, published by Quadrille, RRP $34.99 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: LAURA EDWARDS

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December / January

Crispy Pork with Thyme, Garlic and Fennel Seeds

Serves:

4

This is one of the simplest ways to cook pork belly and easily one of the tastiest. It’s better if the slices are relatively thin, so I prefer to buy a whole piece, then cut it up myself – but you can buy it as strips, if you prefer. Pork belly has so much flavour thanks to the lovely, creamy fat that runs between the layers of meat. Be careful, though: the fat has a tendency to drip into the fire when it’s hot, which can cause the embers to flare up. That’s why I like using a lightweight grill, which is easy to whip off; or in this case, I use my trusty Aga toasting rack.

Ingredients

Method

750g free-range or organic pork belly (off the bone) 2 garlic cloves, bashed 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, bashed 3–4 thyme sprigs 2 teaspoons fennel seeds, bashed 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Place the pork belly on a board and cut it into 2–3cm thick slices. Transfer the pork pieces to a bowl and add the garlic and peppercorns, and the thyme sprigs, fennel seeds and salt.

Trickle in the extra-virgin olive oil and turn everything together so it’s all mixed up well. Leave the pork to sit for several hours, or overnight in the fridge if you like.

When you’re ready to cook, light your fire or barbecue and when you have a hot bed of glowing embers, lay the pork slices side by side on the grill. The heat under the grill should be hot, but not super-hot. Let the pork slices sizzle until the edges of the skin begin to blister and crackle and the pork itself is dark and crisp. Once it’s got to this stage on the first side, turn the slices over and cook the other side until looking equally delicious.

Allow the pork to rest for 5 minutes before serving with some cold ciders.

Outside by Gill Meller, published by Quadrille, RRP $65.00 Food & Wine

PHOTOS: ANDREW MONTGOMERY

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D use dairy-free cream (minimum 30% fat) LF use lactose-free cream (minimum 30% fat) F see lactose-free advice and use any type of berry apart from blackberries V use veggie-friendly prosecco

Berry and Prosecco Roulade Serves:

8

Takes:

50 minutes + soaking time

A roulade for dessert on Christmas day has always been a tradition in our family throughout my teenage years. I hope my mum doesn’t mind me saying it, but she never actually made it; we always bought one from the farm shop when we went to collect the turkey! Not only is my re-creation a boozy berry version, but I can also actually eat this one – a roulade isn’t always gluten-free, so do always be careful if buying a shop-bought one like we used to.

Ingredients

Method

150g berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries), defrosted if frozen 120ml (½ cup) prosecco, plus an extra 2 tbsp for the cream

Place the berries in a small bowl and add the prosecco, then leave to soak for 2–3 hours or overnight – the longer you leave them, the stronger the prosecco flavour will be.

For the meringue

Preheat the oven to 170°C fan / 190°C. Line a Swiss roll tin (pan), 33 x 23cm, with non-stick baking parchment.

4 large egg whites 225g (2 cups plus 2 tbsp) caster (superfine) sugar 1 tsp white wine vinegar 1 tsp cornflour (cornstarch) 50g (½ cup) ground almonds 45g flaked almonds For the filling

300ml (1¼ cups) double (heavy) cream 50g (6 tbsp) icing (confectioners’) sugar, plus extra to finish 3 tbsp prosecco

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites to fairly stiff peaks, then gradually add the sugar while still whisking – I prefer to use an electric hand mixer for this. It should become thick and glossy. next, fold through the vinegar, cornflour and ground almonds, using a silicone spatula, before carefully spooning it into the prepared tin. Spread into an even layer, then sprinkle the flaked almonds evenly over the top.

Freezable: Once decorated, slice and

freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden, risen and fairly firm to the touch. remove from the oven and invert the meringue onto another sheet of non-stick baking parchment. Leave to cool for about 10 minutes.

Gluten Free Christmas: 80 Easy Gluten-Free Recipes for a Stress-Free Festive Season by Becky Excell, published by Quadrille, RRP $49.99.

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Meanwhile, make the filling. In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream with the icing sugar and gradually add the prosecco – again, I use an electric hand mixer for this. Whip until thick but try not to over-whip.

Drain the berries (be sure to enjoy the prosecco they were soaking in!) and chop any larger ones, then fold two-thirds of the berries through the whipped cream, using a silicone spatula.

Spread a layer of the whipped cream onto the meringue and then roll the meringue up carefully from a short side, using the baking parchment beneath to help you.

It will crack as you go; this is normal and exactly what you want to happen!

Decorate with a dusting of icing sugar and the remaining berries.

Tip: You can make this without the

prosecco; just omit from the cream and berries to create a berry roulade.

PHOTOS: HANNAH HUGHES

D Use a hard dairy-free alternative to butter LL V

Mini Christmas Puddings Makes:

3 x 500ml puddings

Takes:

45 minutes + soaking time + 5½ hours steaming time

Two of the most common questions I get asked about my Christmas pudding recipe (in my second book) are: how do I make multiple smaller Christmas puddings in a 1-pint tin? And how long do I steam them for? In case you didn’t know, the original recipe was for one big Christmas pudding, so here I give timings and instructions to make 3 smaller puddings instead.

Ingredients

Method

150g raisins 150g currants 150g candied mixed peel 1 small cooking apple, such as Bramley, peeled, cored and roughly chopped zest and juice of 1 lemon 4 tbsp brandy or sherry, plus an extra 4 tbsp to serve 75g (1/3 cup) butter, softened 150g (¾ cup) light muscovado sugar 2 large eggs 90g (2/3 cup) gluten-free plain (all-purpose) flour 1 tsp gluten-free baking powder ½ tsp xanthan gum 1 tsp ground nutmeg 2 slices of gluten-free bread, blitzed into breadcrumbs

Place the raisins, currants, mixed peel and apple in a large bowl. Add the lemon zest and juice and brandy or sherry. Allow to stand for a minimum of 2 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer the better!

comes just over a third of the way up the basins. Place the lid on the pan, bring to the boil and simmer for 4 hours. Keep an eye on the water level, as you may need to top it up halfway through.

Grease three 500ml pudding basins and line the bases with circles of non-stick baking parchment. If your pudding basins don’t have a lid, create them by cutting three circles of foil and baking parchment that are roughly 3cm larger than the basin’s diameter. Place one foil circle and one paper circle on top of one another and create a pleat down the middle. Repeat twice more and set aside.

Once cooked, remove the pudding basins from the water, remove the lids and allow to cool completely in the basins. once cool, cover and store in a cool, dry place until Christmas day.

For the brandy butter

125g (generous ½ cup) butter, softened 200g (scant 1½ cups) icing (confectioners’) sugar, sifted 4 tbsp brandy Grated zest of ½ orange Freezable: Once steamed and cooled, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 year. once defrosted, continue with the second steam.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing between additions.

Add the flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, nutmeg and breadcrumbs and mix until well combined. Lastly, stir through all of the soaked fruit, along with the soaking liquid, and mix once more.

Divide the mixture between the prepared pudding basins, ensuring that the mixture is flat and even on top by compacting it down. Secure the lids in place. If you made the lids from foil and baking parchment, use some string to secure them in place. If your pudding basins came with lids, I’d recommend wrapping each in foil after popping it on, just to be safe.

Place all three puddings in a large saucepan and add boiling water so that it

Gluten Free Christmas: 80 Easy Gluten-Free Recipes for a Stress-Free Festive Season by Becky Excell, published by Quadrille, RRP $49.99.

Food & Wine

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On Christmas day, pop the lids on your pudding basins – if you made your own, you’ll need to create them again. Place in a large saucepan again and fill once again with boiling water, just over a third of the way up the pudding basins. Pop the lids on, bring to the boil and simmer for 1½ hours.

While they are steaming, whip up the brandy butter. I use a stand mixer for this, but an electric hand whisk will do the job just fine too. If making by hand, just ensure you mix for longer.

Place the butter in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix on a medium speed for about 5 minutes until a lot paler. Add the icing sugar and mix until completely incorporated, then add the brandy and orange zest and mix once more. Transfer the puddings to individual serving plates and keep the brandy butter refrigerated until you serve everything up.

To serve, warm up the extra 4 tablespoons of brandy in a small saucepan (don’t let it boil) and then pour a little over the hot Christmas puddings.

Carefully set light to each and serve immediately with the brandy butter.

PHOTOS: HANNAH HUGHES

V

Christmas Aftermath Ice Cream Makes:

1 litre (4 cups)

Takes:

10 minutes + 8 hours chilling

This is my favourite use of sweet festive leftovers, including Christmas cake and leftover biscuits or cookies (I use gingerbread), which pair so well with my gluten-free brandy snap baskets. The rum, when combined with the Christmas cake, gives the entire thing a rum and raisin flavour that I am positively addicted to. Of course, it works just as well without the rum too, so feel free to mix and match the cake and biscuits you use to create your own flavour combinations.

Ingredients

Method

600ml (2½ cups) double (heavy) cream 1 x 397g can of condensed milk 2 tsp vanilla extract 80ml (1/3 cup) rum (optional) 300g leftover Christmas pudding, Christmas cake or Dundee cake, crumbled, plus an extra 100g to scatter on top 100ml (generous 1/3 cup) caramel 200g leftover festive biscuits (cookies), chopped into 1cm chunks

Line 2 x 450g loaf tins (pans) with nonstick baking parchment.

Place the cream, condensed milk, vanilla extract and rum, if using, in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.

Use an electric hand mixer to combine all of the ingredients or use the balloon whisk attachment on the stand mixer on a slow speed to mix until combined.

Increase the speed to high and mix until it thickens and soft peaks are formed.

Add the crumbled Christmas pudding, cake or Dundee cake and stir in gently by hand using a silicone spatula, until evenly dispersed.

mixture between both tins and smooth over, before topping with the remaining caramel and leftover chopped biscuits.

Finally, sprinkle the extra Christmas pudding, cake or Dundee cake on top and gently push any large chunks in.

Place in the freezer for 8 hours or overnight. Remove from the freezer 5–10 minutes before serving, in gluten-free ice-cream cones.

Tip: If you don’t have two 450g loaf tins,

you can always use a singular 900g loaf tin instead.

Spoon a quarter of the mixture into each tin and gently smooth it over using the spatula. Drizzle a quarter of the caramel and scatter a quarter of the chopped leftover biscuits on top of both.

Divide the remaining whipped cream

Gluten Free Christmas: 80 Easy Gluten-Free Recipes for a Stress-Free Festive Season by Becky Excell, published by Quadrille, RRP $49.99.

Food & Wine

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PHOTOS: HANNAH HUGHES

D use a hard dairy-free butter alternative and dairy-free milk, if needed LL use lactose-free milk, if needed F use lactose-free milk, if needed

Macarons Makes:

16

Takes:

Takes 50 minutes + cooling/resting time

V

I’ll never forget walking into a certain (very famous) Parisian bakery and being surrounded by a sea of macarons; not only because of the vibrant colours, but because they were all gluten-free! So do as I do and give a little Parisian gluten-free magic this Christmas, conjured up right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Method

For the macarons

Prepare two large baking trays lined with non-stick baking parchment. You can optionally draw 4cm circles in pencil on the parchment with a 2cm gap between each circle, then flip it over – this helps to guide your piping.

a thin stream while the mixer is still running. once you’ve added all the sugar syrup, turn the speed up to high and whisk for 5–10 minutes until cooler. You should have a glossy meringue mixture that isn’t too stiff.

Blitz the icing sugar and ground almonds in a food processor, then sift the mixture into a large mixing bowl to remove any larger lumps, which can then be discarded.

Add a little of the meringue mixture to the almond paste and fold it in using a silicone spatula. Then gradually fold the rest of the meringue mixture in until the mixture is smooth and has a slight shine.

Do this carefully so that you don’t knock the air out – it’s important not to overmix.

When ready, the mixture should form ribbons when drizzled from the spatula that disappear back into the mixture within 10 seconds.

100g (¾ cup) icing (confectioners’) sugar 100g (1 cup) ground almonds 2 large egg whites (about 35g) ½ tsp strawberry or vanilla extract Food colouring gel of your choice 100g (½ cup) caster (superfine) sugar 30ml (2 tbsp) water For the buttercream

75g (1/3 cup) butter, softened 150g (1¼ cups) icing sugar 1 tsp strawberry or vanilla extract Food colouring gel of your choice 1–2 tsp milk (optional) Freezable: Once constructed, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Separate the egg whites into two separate bowls and add one of the egg whites to the almond and sugar bowl along with the strawberry or vanilla extract. Mix to combine until it forms a paste. Stir in a few drops of food colouring gel; make the mixture a little brighter than you’re aiming for, as it will become less bright when you add the remaining ingredients.

Cover the bowl and set aside.

Place the caster sugar and water in a small saucepan and set over a low– medium heat. At the same time, place the other egg white into the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment. once the sugar syrup has reached 110°C – I use a digital food thermometer for this part – turn the mixer to a medium speed and whisk the egg white until you achieve soft peaks.

Once the sugar syrup gets to 118°C, remove it from the heat and slowly pour it straight into the stand mixer bowl in

Gluten Free Christmas: 80 Easy Gluten-Free Recipes for a Stress-Free Festive Season by Becky Excell, published by Quadrille, RRP $49.99.

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Now it’s time to pipe the mixture. Place the mixture into a piping (pastry) bag fitted with a 1cm round piping tip and pipe 4cm circles onto the paper, leaving a 2cm gap between each. When piping, keep the piping bag completely vertical to the paper and pipe from the centre at all times. quickly flick out sideways to finish piping, which will prevent peaks forming. once you’ve used up all the mixture, tap the trays firmly on the work surface a few times and then put to one side for about 40 minutes to dry out and form a skin. They’re ready when you can gently touch the tops and there’s no residue left on your finger.

Preheat the oven to 140°C fan / 160°C.

PHOTOS: HANNAH HUGHES

Bake the macarons for about 18 minutes, or until they’ve risen up slightly and have visible ‘feet’ – a new bottom layer that wasn’t there before baking. Remove from the oven and allow to fully cool on the tray.

While they’re cooling, make the buttercream filling. Place the softened butter into the (cleaned) bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl if using an electric hand mixer). Mix on a medium speed for around 6 minutes, until the butter has turned paler in colour. Add the icing sugar in 2 stages, beating for about 3 minutes between each addition. Start the mixer slowly to avoid creating a mini icing sugar explosion, but then increase the speed to medium–high for each of your 3-minute mixing intervals. Add the strawberry or vanilla extract as well as the gel food colouring and mix until fully combined. If the buttercream is too thick, loosen with a little milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you’re happy with the consistency. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a ½cm round nozzle.

Pipe the buttercream onto the underside of one of the cooled macaron halves, starting at the edges and working towards the middle in a circular motion.

The buttercream should be no more than ½cm thick. Sandwich another macaron half on top. repeat until you’ve used up all of the macaron halves and/or buttercream. Chill briefly in the fridge and then package ready for gifting.

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December / January

Hedgehog German Cookies Makes:

15–20

Festive little hedgehogs! These German-style cookies are extremely delicate and have a ‘melt in your mouth’ texture thanks to the addition of potato starch. You can replace the potato starch with plain [all-purpose] flour, but this will result in a more ordinary shortbread, rather than the special texture of these cookies. Feel free to decorate these hedgehogs with whatever sprinkles you like!

Ingredients

Method

125g (½ cup plus 1 Tbsp) salted butter, at room temperature, cubed 40g (5 Tbsp) icing (confectioners’) sugar ½ tsp vanilla bean paste 125g (¾ cup plus 1 Tbsp) potato starch, plus extra for dusting if needed 80g (2/3 cup minus 1 Tbsp) plain (allpurpose) flour (to make gluten free, substitute with gluten-free flour plus ½ tsp xanthan gum)

Cream the butter and icing sugar together in a stand mixer (or use a handheld electric whisk) fitted with a balloon whisk attachment until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla bean paste and mix again until combined. Sift in the potato starch and plain flour (or gluten-free flour plus xanthan gum), then combine into a ball using a spatula. Avoid overmixing.

Plus

150g dark (bittersweet) chocolate, roughly chopped hard pretzels festive sprinkles of your choice brown round sprinkles

Shape the dough into smooth round balls (about 19–26g each) between your hands.

Refine the shape further by making one end narrower than the other and try to shape a smaller point for where the hedgehog’s nose will be. The dough is a little sticky and tricky to handle, so use potato starch or flour to stop it sticking to your hands. Try to handle the dough lightly and, the less you handle it, the more the cookies will crumble and melt in your mouth.

Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

Place the cookies on the sheet and chill in the fridge for 15–30 minutes. At this point, preheat the oven to 160°C. Bake for about 15–20 minutes (smaller pieces will bake quicker). They will expand slightly but will hold their shape very well.

Christmas with Kim-Joy by Kim-Joy, published by Quadrille, RRP $34.99.

Food & Wine

When baked, leave to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer carefully to a wire rack to let them cool completely (be careful when transferring as the cookies are very fragile – though this is also part of what makes them so delicious too).

Place the dark chocolate in a microwaveable bowl and melt in short 20-second bursts in the microwave, stirring well between each.

Spoon the chocolate over the cookies, leaving the face exposed and reserving some of the chocolate for the facial features. Break the pretzel sticks so that they look like reindeer antlers. Stick the antlers on either side of the hedgehog’s head, pressing slightly into the cookie so they stay in place. Scatter sprinkles over so they stick to the chocolate. Repeat with all the hedgehog cookies.

Use a spatula to transfer the remaining chocolate to a piping [pastry] bag and cut a very small tip. Pipe a little chocolate to adhere a round brown sprinkle for the hedgehog’s nose, then pipe 2 dots of chocolate for the eyes.

PHOTOS: ELLIS PARRINDER

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December / January

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drinkbesos.com

Meet the Culinary Maverick Born in Mexico City and raised in the heartland of Tequila, chef Luis Cabrera is a master of his craft.

From bustling Mexico City to the enchanting streets of Venice, the metropolis of Sydney, and the serene landscapes of New Zealand, Luis has left his mark on the global culinary scene.

His resume reads like a globe-trotter's dream, with stints at top restaurants and hotels in Boston, Dublin, Milan, and beyond.

Chef Luis is a culinary luminary, invited to share his expertise at prestigious

international institutions like IberoAmerican University of Gastronomy, Mexico. As a former member of the Italian Chef’s Federation and National team of Chefs, Luis earned a Silver Medal at the Culinary Olympics in Germany in 2008.

From serving up delectable dishes to Barak Obama, to delighting the taste buds of Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Carlos Santana, and the famously exacting Gordon Ramsay, Luis has consistently wowed the most discerning palates.

But it was in New Zealand that Luis and his wife, Cecilia, decided to put down roots, introducing the flavours of Latin America to Kiwi diners with the opening of Besos Latinos, the country's first authentic Latin American restaurant, in the heart of Auckland. This endeavour was soon followed by the chic Ceviche Bar by Besos Latinos, located in the vibrant Wynyard Quarter.

a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. Discerning drinkers worldwide can now savour the taste of Mexico's authenticity in a convenient 700ml ready-to-serve bottle, complete with its special chili salt. This margarita has taken the world by storm, winning a remarkable seven international awards, including the prestigious Triple Gold Medal at the Major League Spirits Awards (MLSA) in Michigan, 2023.

Chef Luis Cabrera: a culinary legend whose journey is a tapestry of flavours, cultures, and excellence. With each dish and every bottle of Besos Margarita, he continues to craft unforgettable experiences for all who have the privilege of savouring his creations.

In November 2022, Luis made a bold move, shifting his focus to share the secret behind his signature margarita recipe. The result was Besos Margarita,

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December / January

Wine, Cocktails & Good Company The Crown Range Lounge is an intimate tapas bar with a brooding space in the heart of Parnell. We offer wine and food that captures the dramatic mood of Central Otago, alongside great live music.

COME JOIN US 251 Parnell Road crownrangelounge.co.nz 021 0276 3519

DELICIOUS DOSES OF INDIA Experience a delightful fusion of authentic South Indian cuisine.

Explore three premier dining destinations in Auckland, offering a tantalizing array of flavors from South Indian street foods. These venues are the ultimate choice to satisfy your cravings and tantalize your taste buds.

HYDERABAD FOOD GARAGE 73 WAKEFIELD STREET L, AUCKLAND CBD HYDERABADFOODGARAGE.CO.NZ • 09 302 0199 PLAN B LOUNGE 115 PARNELL ROAD, PARNELL @PLANB.LOUNGE • 09 971 2371 BAAHUBALI INDIAN RESTAURANT 1087 NEW NORTH ROAD, MOUNT ALBERT BAAHUBALI.CO.NZ • 09 217 6333

Discover the allure of Rumi Persian Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets elegance

Experience the taste of Kyoto Gion Japanese Restaurant

Indulge in meticulously crafted dishes, each a symphony of

Gion Japanese Restaurant blends unique elements of Kyoto in Japan to create an authentic dining environment, unveiling the relationship between food and nature.

flavours. Experience the enchantment of Persian cuisine in a

1/168 Parnell Road ◆ gion.co.nz booking@gion.co.nz ◆ 09 379 3344

RUMI.CO.NZ 022 020 5176 | 251 PARNELL ROAD

sophisticated ambiance — your perfect culinary escape awaits.

Divino

TheParis Paris of Java The Java

CAFE / RESTAURANT // BAR BAR //FUNCTION SPACE CAFE / RESTAURANT FUNCTION SPACE

Pizza & Pasta

December Hours

December Hours MON - SUN | 8AM TILL LATE ( KITCHEN CLOSES AT 9PM ) MON SUN | 8AM TILL LATE (KITCHEN ATBali 9PM) Our-cafe is inspired by mothers' kitchens, tinyCLOSES warungs in and Java with their offerings of freshly made, delicious street foodcafe snacks, us for breakfast, lunch andkitchens, dinner.

Our is join inspired by mothers’ tiny warungs

Divino Bistro offers fabulous authentic Italian food.

The menu is accompanied by their daily specials and wine list, perfectly complementing their menu.

in Bali and Java with their offerings of freshly made, delicious street food snacks, join us for breakfast, 119 Parnell Rd, Parnell | 09 302 1717 | bandung.co.nz lunch and dinner. info@bandung.co.nz | @bandung_parnell

CLOSED 23 - 31 December 2023 Monday - Friday | Takeaway available 12pm - 8pm Bar & Aperitivo from 3pm Bistro by reservation, private parties by arrangement

119 Parnell Rd, Parnell • 09 302 1717 bandung.co.nz • info@bandung.co.nz @bandung_parnell

15 Nicholls Lane, Carlaw Park 09 379 3848 ∙ 021 0238 3007 ∙ divino.co.nz

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December / January

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LOCATION 6D Kent Street, Newmarket

Atelier Shu Patisserie Boutique

SHOP INSTORE OR ORDER ONLINE ateliershu.co.nz | @ atelier.shu

TH E P T CH EV B E AC H CA FÉ D I S H O F T H E MO N TH Spinach and Buckwheat Crepe with Salmon, Pickled Zucchini, Hazelnuts, Nasturtium and Chive Cream

— 09 815 6 6 36 506 P T CH E VA L I E R RD, AU CK L AND PTCH E VBEACH CA FE .CO. N Z

Mini Gateau Cakes & Handcrafted Pastries

HNT | hntkitchen.co.nz

HNT is a wholefood kitchen creating nourishing meals to prioritise health. With everything made from scratch in our kitchen at Commercial Bay, it’s real food to fuel you and your team. Our hearty menu is nostalgic – think the magic that Nana would make, but with a modern twist! And our talents don’t end there. We’re also allergy specialists, meaning your glutenfree, dairy-free, vegan and keto team members will all be taken care of! Little wonder we have the area’s highest repeat customer rate.

In addition to lunches, our catering service has been used for some pretty epic events – from Dancing with the Stars to Les Mills workouts to the Lord of the Rings series. And finally, we also prepare gourmet home-ready meals which can be heated in minutes. They freeze brilliantly, too, perfect for a stash in the freezer – especially for those unexpected allergy guests.

Commercial Bay, Level 2/21 Queen Street, Auckland CBD

You Snooze, You Lose?

WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

For many, sleep is the best part of the day, so, what better news this Christmas than knowing that hitting the snooze button might not be so bad for you after all?

Beauty & Health

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Studies have found that those who do use snooze are likely to be younger than non-snoozers, more likely to feel drowsier when waking, and more likely to be night owls.

Research has found more people vow to get more sleep for their new year’s resolution than vow to get to the gym, with many valuing getting a few extra hours kip over losing a few extra pounds around the waistline. Getting more sleep does, of course, help with weight loss anyway, along with helping to manage stress and to boost our mood, our productivity, our cognitive function, and our immune system.

But, perversely, sleeping too much can lead to weight gain, depression, diabetes, and heart disease to name but a few.

The general consensus is that seven hours sleep is the optimum amount for most adults, and it should be a steady seven hours per night rather than attempting to make up for missed slumber with lie-ins.

It’s estimated that a whopping 70% of us use the snooze button, but the general consensus has been that it should also be avoided, as then-director of Sleep Disorders Research, Dr Reena Mehra, explains to the Cleveland Clinic. “Much of the latter part of our sleep cycle is comprised of REM sleep, or dream sleep, which is a restorative sleep state,” she says. “And so, if you’re hitting the snooze button, then you’re disrupting that REM sleep.”

It’s been argued that fragmented sleep is worse for us than short, uninterrupted sleep, more likely to have an adverse effect on our cognitive function, mood, and attention span; that prolonging the alarm confuses our circadian rhythm, making our body unsure as to whether it should be sleeping or getting up. (Plus, if you are feeling the urge to ‘snooze’ then you’re probably not getting enough sleep to start with.)

However, recent research has found that choosing those few extra bursts of blissful shuteye has zero impact on sleep quality. Research published in the Journal of Sleep found that shortly after waking, those who’d snoozed for 30 minutes outperformed those who’d risen on the first alarm when doing mathematical equations and memory tests. Differences in mood, cognition, and tiredness between the two groups were slight as the day wore on.

Studies have found that those who do use snooze are likely to be younger than non-snoozers, more likely to feel drowsier when waking, and more likely to be night owls. The main reason for choosing snooze was the inability to wake up and feeling too tired. Also common is the enjoyment of waking up more gradually.

“People who snooze for 30 minutes are actually falling back to sleep between alarms,” Marie-Pierre St-Onge, the director of the Center of Excellence for Sleep and Circadian Research at Columbia University, tells NBC. “Not a deep sleep but a light sleep so that when they had to wake up at the end of 30 minutes they were not being yanked out of a deeper stage of sleep. They might have felt this was a more gentle awakening.”

Aaron Striegel, a professor of computer science at Notre Dame, who co-authored one of the studies, says that their research reveals that snoozing has been “unfairly villainised”.

“That was our big takeaway,” he tells Time. “It’s probably not as bad as what they’re telling you.”

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December / January

louisegray.co.nz

Unlocking the Secrets of Skincare The individuality of skin and the importance of professional consultations.

In a world where skincare is often approached with a trial-and-error mindset, Louise Gray Skin Care stands as a beacon of expertise and personalised care. Embracing the philosophy that every face tells a different story, our clinic is dedicated to unveiling the beauty within, one individualised consultation at a time. Trust the professionals at Louise Gray Skin Care to decode your skin's unique language and unveil the vibrant, healthy complexion you deserve.

In the realm of skincare, the journey to radiant, flawless skin can be as unique as each individual's genetic code. It's a phenomenon that has left many baffled: how can one person use a particular product and experience transformative results, while another may find the same product detrimental to their skin?

At Louise Gray Skin Care, we delve into the intricacies of individual skin characteristics to shed light on this perplexing conundrum.

One crucial factor contributing to the diverse reactions is the inherent uniqueness of each person's skin. Skin types, sensitivities, and concerns can vary drastically from one individual to another. What works wonders for one person might not be suitable for someone else due to differences in factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Our skin is a dynamic organ, influenced by a myriad of internal and external factors.

Beauty & Health

This is where the importance of a professional skin consultation becomes paramount. While the internet is flooded with skincare advice and product recommendations, the guidance of a qualified skincare professional can provide tailored solutions that align with an individual's specific needs. A one-sizefits-all approach simply doesn't apply in the complex world of skincare.

At Louise Gray Skin Care, our expert therapists conduct thorough skin consultations to understand each client's unique skin profile. Through careful analysis, we identify factors such as skin type, concerns, and lifestyle, enabling us to create a personalised skincare regimen that addresses specific needs and goals. This personalised approach is a game-changer, ensuring that our clients receive the most effective and suitable treatments and products.

Another critical aspect that adds to the skincare puzzle is the seasonal changes our skin undergoes. As the environment shifts, so does the behaviour of our skin. Winter's biting cold or summer's scorching heat can trigger different reactions in the skin, leading to changes in moisture levels, oil production, and overall complexion. A product that thrives in the humid months may not provide sufficient hydration during the dry winter season.

126

Understanding these seasonal variations is essential for maintaining optimal skin health. Our therapists at Louise Gray Skin Care guide clients through adapting their skincare routines to accommodate the evolving needs of their skin as the seasons change. This proactive approach ensures that skin remains balanced and resilient throughout the year.

In conclusion, the enigma of skincare lies in the intricate dance between individuality and environment.

Recognising that each person's skin is as unique as their fingerprint is the first step toward achieving skincare success. A professional skin consultation at Louise Gray Skin Care empowers individuals to unlock the secrets of their skin, providing a roadmap to a radiant complexion that stands the test of time and seasonal shifts.

Louise Gray Skin Care, Shop 2/224 Kepa Rd, Mission Bay 09 528 9010 louisegray.co.nz

Shop online at millerroad.co.nz

Sharing Joy Miller Road Fragrances take fragrance seriously, creating scent memories that last a lifetime.

Can you tell us more about the workshops you offer? We run bespoke

fragrance workshops that delve into the intricacies of blending scents, and providing insights into the fragrance industry as a whole. Attendees receive a 30ml bottle of their very own eau de parfum at the end of the workshop.

What are some signature items product lines, in particular those that are popular during the holiday season? We’ve created 10 captivating

fragrances in various products like parfum, candles, diffusers, shower bombs, car diffusers, and soaps. Our holiday collection comprises three delightful candle scents that capture the essence of Christmas: the nostalgic Christmas Pine, the sweet Gingerbread, and the summery Noel.

Can you tell us more about your gift options? All of our products make

beautiful gifts for the festive season paired with our Christmas Cracker packaging and Gift Boxes. Our Eau De Parfum Discovery Set makes thoughtful giving stress-free as it allows loved ones to choose their signature scent from our range. Our Workshop Voucher is also a great gift for fragrance enthusiasts.

Founder Treena Nixon plays a significant role in the brand. How does her vision and aesthetic contribute to the overall identity? Treena’s

studies in France have infused Miller Road Fragrances with an unmistakable French aesthetic flair, evident in the other-worldly design of our studios and the elegant packaging of our products.

Treena’s vision for the brand always stems from kindness which serves as a guiding principle in how we interact with customers. It’s here that our motto, “Follow Your Dreams,” comes to life.

store extends our presence to a vibrant tourist destination, embracing the adventurous spirit, providing fragrant memories of your travels. Both are incredibly ‘Instagrammable’! We couldn’t do it without our ‘Gorgeous Factory’ warehouse and fragrance lab in Auckland where our products are lovingly handmade.

How does Miller Road prioritise delivering a unique and memorable experience for customers during the busy festive season? Our beautifully

wrapped gift boxes and luxurious packaging are always a hit. The joy of giving an experience through our workshop voucher also really resonates with customers. We love connecting with you in-store – it’s why we do what we do!

Can you provide a brief overview of where your stores are located and how each location contributes to the brand experience? The flagship

Devonport store serves as a showcase and fragrance workshop hub, embodying our brand’s roots. The Queenstown

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clinic42.co.nz

Don’t Sweat It It’s that time of year again when we don our finest and head off to Christmas functions ranging from work dos to family occasions and weddings.

While we ladies are worried about unsightly sweat marks appearing on our light and delicate silk dresses, spare a thought for the gentlemen looking dapper in their suits in steaming 28-degree temperatures!

Most of us can weather a bit of heat by taking advantage of the shade and sipping on a cool drink. But if you naturally run on the hot side, the perils of excessive sweating can completely disrupt normal daily activities and leave you feeling socially awkward and embarrassed.

Lifting a glass to toast friends and family only to display a damp, unsightly underarm is not the look anyone’s aiming for on a formal occasion.

Hyperhidrosis is a common condition where the nerves that signal the sweat glands are overactive which causes you to sweat excessively. Not only does this condition leave embarrassing wet marks on your clothing but you end up feeling like a sticky hot mess and physically uncomfortable when you should be relaxed and enjoying the festivities of the occasion. Luckily, there is a solution!

Traditional treatments for excessive sweating, such as aluminium-based antiperspirants, can be ineffective.

Additionally, these products result in white, powdery stripes all over your clothes that not only add to your laundry pile, but can be difficult to wash out, ruining your favourite holiday attire.

Beauty & Health

However, injectable botulinum toxin is an effective treatment that can banish unsightly sweat marks, ensuring that you stay fresh feeling throughout the warmer months. At Clinic 42, hyperhidrosis treatment can be safely and easily administered by one of our skilled nurses. Botulinum toxin blocks the chemical signal between the nerve and the overactive sweat gland which reduces perspiration. You will start to see the effect of the treatment within a few days and the maximum effect kicks in within two weeks.

The appointment is super quick, taking just 45 minutes and can be easily slotted into your lunch hour during a busy working week. With zero downtown, you can head straight back to work or out and about with the confidence and reassurance that you will soon be able to look great and feel fresh as a daisy, all day long.

Cost of hyperhidrosis treatment: $999 (nurse only, armpit only, special conditions apply). If you’re interested in finding out more about Hyperhidrosis for other areas, or any of the other treatments available at Clinic 42, visit the website clinic42.co.nz .

If you’d like to book an appointment to see one of the practitioners, please contact reception on 09 638 4242 or reception@clinic42.co.nz .

Botulinum toxin injections are Prescription Medicines for the treatment of frown lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow’s feet round the eyes. Botulinum toxin injections have risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if botulinum toxin injections are right for you. For further information ask your doctor or go to www.medsafe.govt.nz

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Embrace the festive season with confidence!

Achieve your dream physique before Christmas Lose unwanted pesky fat cells for good in just 12 weeks with Cool Body Clinic, part of Auckland Central Medical Centre, Sapphire Clinic and NZ Hair Transplantation.

Institute. Experience the benefits of non-invasive, non-surgical, controlled cooling with no downtime—a truly effective and non-invasive treatment option. Book now for free consultation and make a difference to you for the summer holidays.

Confident Chest Contour Cool Body Clinic offers targeted solutions to address gynecomastia, effectively reducing stubborn chest fat for a confident, sculpted appearance in men.

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

From us, to you!

Wishing all our past and present clients a great, fun, and safe Christmas and awesome New Year!

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

Cheers, Dr Garsing and Margaret Wong (Owners of Coolbody Clinic and Yvonne Marvin (Practitioner)

Find out more We guarantee full-body contouring using Cool Body Fat Freezing Technology.

To book, call 09 360 0055 or call Yvonne on 021 923 430 for a FREE CONSULTATION

COOLBODY.CO.NZ • COOLBODYNZ@GMAIL.COM • 28 COLLEGE HILL, FREEMANS BAY

Smoother & More Confident You! Finesse Face and Body Clinic is proud to be the first truSculpt iD provider in New Zealand, as part of an exclusive partnership with Cutera.

TruSculpt iD is the latest technology available to permanently and non-invasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 22 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera Salon.

How does truSculpt iD work? truSculpt iD uses a unique form of monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates evenly and deeply and is able to treat deep into the entire fat pad - from skin to muscle. Once the applicators have been placed on target fatty areas, heat is dispersed evenly, causing irreparable damage to the fat cell walls which the body metabolises and removes permanently over the next 12 weeks. Real-time temperature control and monitoring sensors ensure a constant and therapeutic temperature is maintained for 10 minutes ensuring maximum fat disruption, resulting in 24% fat reduction with every treatment. Patient comfort is ensured through the highly engineered skin adhesives and temperature control which keeps the skin cooler than the underlying fat.

How is truSculpt iD treatment performed?

The initial consultation is performed to assess and discuss your concerns and desired aesthetic goals, then a tailored and customised treatment plan will be created. A total of six handpieces can be used per 15-minute treatment, and multiple areas can be treated on the same day. Once medical consent is completed skin adhesives are attached to the skin overlying the fat pocket followed by the handsfree applicators. The treatment area is wrapped in a cummerbund to minimise movement of handpieces during treatment. After 15 minutes of warmth is distributed into the tissue, the adhesives, handpieces and cummerbund are removed and the patient can return to normal activities.

How do I know if I am a candidate? truSculpt iD is the latest in non-invasive fat removal procedures in minimising treatment time, maximising results and comfort whilst reducing downtime (there is none!). truSculpt iD is a great treatment for targeting stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise, or for a more global debulking option. truSculpt iD is not restricted by BMI or skin laxity concerns, making it a great alternative to cryotherapies. To learn more about if you’re a suitable candidate, book a free consultation with Sue at Finesse.

How many treatments will I need?

Your initial assessment and personal goals will determine the best course of treatment tailored to you, however patients will only require one treatment.

Whether one or two treatments are required, all patients will see an effect at 12 weeks.

Is the treatment painful?

No! Patients report the treatment feels like getting into a hot bath. The heat at first can be a little intense, but just like a bath you become accustomed to the feeling and adjust to the treatment. There is no pain, no downtime and no massage required. Patients can return to normal activities immediately after with most patients only experiences some mild redness on the treatment zone which subsides in a couple of hours.

How long before I see my results?

Clients will begin to see a change in their silhouette from 6 – 8 weeks post treatment, but maximum results are achieved at week 12. Changes in skin quality, tone and texture are usually seen earlier. Each area can be treated once per 12-weeks but other areas can be treated before then.

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

437 Remuera Road, Remuera • 09 520 5331 • finessefaceandbody.co.nz

TruSculpt ID Benefits

NZ MedSafe approved for permanent reduction of up to 24% fat (*shown through ultrasound clinical trials) 15-minute treatment (half the time, and twice the treatment area vs cryotherapies largest applicator) No discomfort & No Downtime – resume normal activities immediately after Customisable and flexible treatment opportunities depending your body and goals No BMI restrictions Male & Female suited Skin tightening – post partum suitability Treatment areas: abdomen (upper, mid and lower), flanks (love handles), upper back fat, lower back fat, inner thighs, outer thighs, arms and under the chin.

Before

12 weeks after one treatment

Before

12 weeks after one treatment

Autophagy Skincare Autophagy Skincare, a thriving Hawke's Bay-based brand, emerged from Vania Bailey's heartfelt journey.

Initially conceived as a birthday gift for her late partner, Nic, the brand's first product, a unisex hydrating gel, caters to diverse skincare needs. Despite Nic's untimely passing, Autophagy became Vania's source of healing and renewal during a dark period of grief and depression.

Crafted with New Zealand's potent natural ingredients like kawakawa, Autophagy's Facial Hydrator is a lightweight serum designed for New Zealand skin types. It boasts a unique blend of marine collagen, polyphenols, and detoxifying elements and is perfect for men post-shave and serves as a versatile base for women's makeup. The brand emphasises inclusivity, providing self-care solutions for all ages and genders. Vania's commitment

Escape to Wellness!

Win a three-day health and wellness retreat for you and a friend at Resolution Retreats, New Zealand's Best Wellness Retreat, valued at $3,000.

Kickstart 2024 at New Zealand’s only weight loss, health and wellness retreat exclusively for women, bordering the peaceful Lake Karāpiro.

The prize includes luxurious, twin-share chalet accommodation for two, nutritionist-designed meals, and a complimentary Flowpresso lymphatic drainage treatment at the in-house spa.

Activities range from gentle daily yoga and group training sessions to cooking classes, and health workshops. Wellness facilities include saunas, steam room, an indoor mineral salt pool, yoga studio, gym, bushwalks and tennis courts, backed by fulltime facilitator support.

Can be used as credit toward a longer retreat but cannot be exchanged for cash. Dates are subject to availability at time of booking and are not transferable. Must provide own transport to the retreat (excluding the complimentary pick up offered from Hamilton airport). Voucher must be redeemed between 1 January and 1 September 2024. resolutionretreats.co.nz resilienceretreats.co.nz

to sustainability extends to recycled packaging, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Autophagy not only offers effective skincare but also symbolises Vania's resilience and hope for others' well-being.

Explore Autophagy's transformative journey at autophagyskincare.com

Always Delivering Lanit Anand is a specialist orthodontist.

Lanit grew up in east Auckland, attending local schools before undertaking a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Otago.

With dual degrees in dentistry and medicine, Lanit believes in delivering evidence-based care and has published several research papers which he has presented at conferences nationally and internationally. Lanit has a special interest in complex cases requiring surgery as well as cleft lip and palate care.

Lanit is about to complete the three-year orthodontic specialty programme at the

University of Queensland. He returns home to Auckland to join Craig Sharp at both the Ormiston and Newmarket locations.

Craig is very much looking forward to Lanit’s arrival into both practices to help with the ever-growing patient numbers and, with his background in oral surgery and medicine, is going to be of significant benefit to his future orthodontic patients.

Lanit starts with Craig at the Ormiston Practice on Monday, 4 December and we are already accepting new patient consultations for him.

ortho1.co.nz

0800 BRACES (0800 272237)

Veins are what we do Delphi Clinic is a dedicated vein clinic in Remuera specialising in the treatment of varicose veins and spider veins.

We are affiliated with Southern Cross and covered by all major insurance companies. We have convenient parking on site for all of our patients. Dr Kidman and his team look forward to meeting you. Clinics also available in CBD, Hobsonville and Pukekohe.

24 Green Lane East Road, Remuera delphiclinic.co.nz • 021 795 744

Dr Zach Kidman | MBChB, BA, RNZCGP Fellow of Australasian College of Phlebology

studiopilates.com/takapuna

Transform Your Body Transform your body in just 40 minutes at the luxe Studio Pilates in Takapuna where reformer Pilates classes will leave you stronger and more toned after just six classes.

Morning, noon, or night, you’ll be guided by world-leading Pilates instructors who provide one-on-one feedback.

Scientifically sequenced programming designed by a team of physiotherapists, ensures that Studio Pilates classes are safe and effective for all ages and fitness levels.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your core, improve your posture, incorporate some strength and resistance training into your workouts or simply try something new, Studio Pilates Takapuna can help you achieve and exceed your goals!

But don’t just take our word for it, experience the Studio Pilates Takapuna difference for yourself with our exclusive Introductory Offer and get 6 Classes for just $60.

Phone: 09 217 4341 Email: takapuna@studiopilates.com Find us: 33 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna (Rear of building)

Come Relax with us!

Escape to Parohe’s earthy wonderland for a wholesome weekend reset with your partner. Experience quality time together as you learn new skills and rekindle sparks in your relationship. Featuring • • • • • •

Beginners Latin rhythm dance class Plant based dessert cooking class Delicious Vegetarian meals Couples yoga Mindfulness practices workshop Secluded sunset picnic

2 NIGHTS | 23 FEBRUARY 2024

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RETREAT

BOOK @ PAROHE. CO.NZ

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SEE O U

WELLNESS | REGENERATION | ADVENTURE

RELAX COUPLES RETREAT

Regal Remmers WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

PHOTO: SISO, 311 REMUERA ROAD, SISOBARANDEATERY.CO.NZ

Remuera’s reputation as Auckland’s leafiest suburb is a long time in the making, it’s flaxladen lands and towering, bird-filled forest first attracting Māori in the early 13th century.

The moniker, however, perhaps has less peaceful origins, believed to stem from the te reo, Remu-wera, with remu meaning edge or hem, and wera meaning burned. It has been argued to be rooted in a grisly story of a visiting chieftainess being killed and placed in an oven while still in her skirt; though others dispute this.

By the time of European arrival, intertribal warring meant that the area was mostly deserted, and it was soon turned into farmland. Remuera – or ‘Remmers’ to its mates – began to take shape as a suburb in the late 19th century when there were around 300 houses and a handful of churches, and schools around the Remuera Road, back then a muddy track that led into town. Progress was swift, and by the early 1900s, Remuera boasted trams, gas and electricity, and metered water supplies, and Remuera Road received its first layer of concrete in 1921.

Artist Eden “Playing all day in the jungle that was Waiata Reserve before they put in the pathways are among my favourite childhood memories,” says Remuera photographer Paul Nathan, aka the artist, Bonco. “Along with bicycling down Victoria Avenue or Orakei Road at high speed! And being taken to the Milnes department store.”

Paul now lives one street away from where he was born and opposite where he went to primary school.

“My grandparents and great grandparents all lived nearby,” recalls the artist. “Things have probably changed more in the last few years than I ever remember in my 53 years.”

I ask about any stories he recalls from those old days.

“I remember my brother walking home from school and being approached by an old man who asked him if he’d like him to come and talk to his class,” chuckles Paul. “My brother was a bit freaked out and didn’t know what to say. The following week he recognised the man as he was sitting in the car driving with my mother. It was Sir Edmund Hillary!”

Paul says he still enjoys exploring Waiata Reserve, along with other local gems like Tinana Wilson’s Beach and Bloodworth

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PHOTO: SAM HARTNETT

Park. “I walk the dog twice a day and most people smile and say hello as you pass by,” he says. “Remuera is a very gentle, quiet place to live.”

He recommends prawn omelette with the Russian layer cake and morning coffee at Crispy Eatery, and the Fungi pizza at Spiga for dinner to round off “a heavenly day” – with special mention for the special sake at Wakuwaku Japanese restaurant for its special sake.

And if you were to sum up Remmers in a few words?

“Old and easy.”

European Eating “Remuera has got a very European feeling,” says Fabrizio Napolitano, chef and owner of Spiga restaurant. “Luckily, lots of our guest get to travel and when they return they kind of expect to find similar offers.”

Welcome to Remuera

And such European offerings can, of course be found at Spiga, a gloriously authentic, high-end Italian eatery tucked away in Remuera. Fabrizio began learning his craft early from both his Italian grandmothers who “instilled a knack for finding quality produce and an understanding of the value that comes from forming a rapport with trusted vendors”. They did this with regular trips to local markets, “carefully choosing the best ingredients” and igniting Fabrizio’s passion for food.

He later trained under Chef Walter Eynard, whose restaurant in Italy has two Michelin stars, and then opened his first restaurant, NOM, in Hong Kong.

“We’ve always had big restaurants around the world and never in a neighbourhood, this time we wanted to be bit more boutique,” the chef tells Verve. “Spiga is a place where you could dine every night, we’re casual but chic and refined at the same time.”

He sums up Remuera, as “chic, unpretentious, happy, and cool”, a place where you can truly feel the love and support of the locals. The only he thing he would like to see change, he says, is “the addition of more parking spaces!” The all-new 1050 Remuera precinct, he says is the suburb’s ultimate hidden gem.

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F I N E S ECO N D H A N D A N D V I N TAG E WATC H E S About Time in Remuera specialises in high-end watches such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, and Cartier. All our watches are pre-loved, however, some are only a few weeks old and still on their factory warranty. All our watches have been thoroughly checked by our workshop, and come with a 12-month About Time guarantee.

Our stock of Rolex is second to none, all available for sale now, and we offer tax-free purchase also.

Onsite, we have three full-time watchmakers offering maintenance and restoration services on all watches and clocks.

C A RT I E R

OMEGA

I WC

ROLEX

WATC HM A K ER S , R EPAIR ER S & VA LUERS 324 REMUERA ROAD, REMUERA | 09 281 4138 ADMIN@ABOUTTIME.CO.NZ | ABOUTTIME.CO.NZ

PHOTOS: SAM HARTNETT

The Nitty Gritty on 1050 Positioned in the heart of the suburb, 1050 Remuera is a premium retail, hospitality, and commercial precinct built to “reactivate a forgotten part of a beautiful historical village, loved by many over the years”.

“The brief was to establish an artisanal mixed-use precinct that could support the local community and businesses to augment Remuera village's reputation,” says architect Maggie Carroll, director of Bureaux, the studio behind the 1050 precinct. “The vision was to enhance the amenity of the area, providing opportunities for residents nearby to ‘live life local’ and to establish a destination for visitors.”

Maggie tells Verve that it wasn’t just the creation of the new precinct that they considered, but visitors’ journey into it.

“We wanted to foster a sense of discovery through creating laneways and a 'see-through' experience between the new and existing buildings,” she reveals. “The focus was to connect and support the tenants as well as invite anyone to enjoy the moments in between.

Though introducing “contemporary design solutions”, Maggie says that it was essential to respect the existing buildings’ form and materiality.

“Our objectives were to create a sense of permanence, enhancing what went before with considered new interventions and provide a focal point that enhanced the reputation of the village.”

The precincts materials serve to “draw character from the heritage brickwork with new insertions and reworkings which do not seek to recreate history but rather carry the precinct into the future”.

“The contemporary forms, modern details and high-quality materials were proposed for their capacity to achieve a beautiful patina of age, over time and blend in with the old.”

Maggie laments the lack of intimacy in modern commercial developments and says that her studio’s philosophy focuses on materiality and craft.

“The layering of forms and textures – glass gables, cedar and copper wrapped pavilions and carefully detailed shopfronts – creates a density and richness of detail that speaks to the life and activity of a successful village.”

“Bureaux designs to the human experience and all the things we touch, see and interact with, while considering the smallest details,” she adds. “It was important that the design for 1050 was tailored to its community and created a sense of place and an experience that was timeless and rich in character.”

Welcome to Remuera

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Love Found in Remuera

WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Italians call it colpo di fulmine, ‘the thunderbolt,’ that stop-you-dead-in-your-tracks feeling when you first lay eyes on someone and fall instantly in love.

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And for husband-and-wife team Steve and Nila Koerber of Ray White Remuera it also led to the founding of one of the most successful partnerships in Auckland real estate.

“I certainly wasn’t on the hunt for love,” admits Steve, who, quite fittingly, also pens poetry on the side (a poem hangs in the hallway that he wrote for his bride in 2016). “I had come out of a marriage a couple of years earlier, was quite depressed and just surviving really. I certainly didn't want to complicate my busy life with a relationship. But then I knocked on the door of my client's house on Orakei Road and my heart skipped a beat.”

Steve eventually plucked up the courage to ask Nila to lunch (“only by text!”) but she’d already returned to her home in Queensland (the Orakei Road property belonged to her aunt).

What followed was a long-distance, two-year relationship-bycorrespondence.

“What can I say, I’m a slow mover!” chuckles Steve. “Nila was raising four kids on her own near the beach. She’s a Buddhist, and almost every day she’d send me photos of the sunrise. It was so beautiful, and helped my healing process.”

“And he would recommend books to me,” adds Nila over tea and biscuits in their heritage-listed Remuera home. “Now, we have this wonderful, blended family – along with Steve’s three children – which makes for some great Christmases with around 30 people at the table!”

The proof is clearly in the pudding – well, sales figures – with the couple selling more than three times more houses than anyone else in the suburb that they love so dearly.

“Ray White Remuera has a 60%-plus market share in the suburb,” says Steve.

“And Megan Jaffe, our friend and principal, also runs the top office for Ray White International, so we’re in an amazing place.”

“We’re very visible in the neighbourhood,” says Nila. “We’ll be out walking the dog and always bump into people we know. Much of our recent business has come from meeting people in the street.”

“We work together, we exercise together, we live together,” adds Steve. “One of the reasons we’re so impactful is that we tend to be a bit obsessed with real estate. We’re always thinking about it. Even during our downtime, we’re brainstorming and problem solving. It might not sound too exciting, but it is for us! It gives us great pleasure.”

DOWN TO BUSINESS

“We’ve worked together every day for eight years, rising before the sun does,” reveals Steve. “We’re quite unique in that Remuera is our sole focus – few people offer such a service.

We’ve found that by concentrating on just one suburb we don’t get distracted, and our knowledge is so much better.”

Welcome to Remuera

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Steve, a former Naval Officer who helmed warships, is the planner (“my military training involved keeping watch for potential dangers ahead”) while Nila, a former accountant – and, says Steve, an

amazing chef – is the problem-solver of the pair. But she derives greatest satisfaction from meeting new clients, who often wind up becoming lifelong friends.

“We’ve met famous artists and people from all backgrounds and ages that we wouldn’t otherwise have encountered,” she beams. “So many people have so many beautiful stories and it’s such a pleasure to hear them, and ultimately, add to them.”

that the house had been in the same family for over a century.

It was first built as a cottage for the gardener of Reverend John Kinder (of Woodcroft Estate on Arney Road), and in 1913 renovated and extended for the reverend’s daughter. Adorned with oak panels and hardwood floors that creak with their weight of history, the house offers expansive, uninterrupted views across to Devonport and Rangitoto from its wraparound deck, framed by fragrant rose bushes, 100-year-old trees, and the remnants of an original farm fence.

BUILDING DREAMS

The couple’s obsession with real estate stretches well beyond selling it. In 2017 they purchased a plot of land on the slopes of Mount Hobson in order to build their own home.

“We didn’t have the money to splash out on a big, expensive house, so we worked really hard to get the best architect and builders,” says Nila. “It had always been Steve’s dream to have a house on a mountain.”

The pandemic put paid to a smooth project, and though they didn’t quite make it onto the TV show Grand Designs, the home was included in a new book by architectural photographer, Simon Devitt. However, there was something even more exciting over the horizon: their current heritage-listed home, which they moved into in January 2023.

“We used to walk past this iconic place regularly and adored it,” says Steve. “I used to point at it and say to Nila, ‘There’s your house!’ It has such a mystique. We never saw anyone on the porch, and of course, we thought that whoever owned the place would never give it up anyway.”

“It’s such a solid, beautiful house, but the layout isn’t ideal for a modern family,” laments Nila. “The kitchen is at the back, there are four bedrooms, but none of them are particularly well proportioned, and there’s only the original – gorgeous – open fireplaces for heating!”

Next March, with the blessing of Heritage New Zealand, the couple will begin modernising the property’s interiors.

“Our daily dealings with homebuyers suggest that many would shy away from buying a heritage-listed home,” says Steve. “But it would be a different story if people knew that with the help of expert consultants and architects, there is a lot you can do to really bring these places back to life.”

The couple say that since their move, so many people have commented that this is their favourite house in Auckland.

“There aren’t too many places like this left,” says Steve.

“Because it’s heritage listed, we privately joke that it’s not actually our house - it belongs to the people of New Zealand.

Our vision is to help preserve it for generations to come.”

But they did, and a series of fortunate circumstances meant that the couple were able realise their dream and sign on the dotted line. The previous owner had lived there for 22 years, and before 141

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Elle & Riley Elle & Riley Cashmere, New Zealand's leading cashmere brand is now in Remuera, offering an exquisite range of sustainably sourced, high-quality cashmere pieces.

Each item in their collection is a testament to a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and enduring elegance. The Remuera store provides a unique shopping experience, inviting customers to immerse themselves in a world of refined aesthetics and tactile luxury. As a brand synonymous with responsible opulence, every visit is memorable, offering personalised service and expert styling advice. The latest collection of silk and cashmere is now available in store.

Elle & Riley is located at 415 Remuera Road at the back of Browns next to Waku Waku. elleandriley.com

Hare & Hunter

At Hare & Hunter we provide specialised services such as Lived in Colour work to Bridal.

The moment you walk into Hare and Hunter you feel a warm, friendly, and down-to-earth vibe. We want clients to feel at home and relaxed away from their day-to-day life. Our well-educated team strives to offer personalised, highquality services to every client.

Instagram @hareandhuntersalon hareandhunter.com

Welcome to Remuera

Spaces for life dayarchitects.co.nz

We create homes not houses. A home is where you feel most comfortable. Where you rest, live and laugh. Where you grow, celebrate and make memories. Our approach is to understand what home means to you and bring that space to life.

At Day Architects, we design spaces for living. Architecture that connects you and your family to the community and environment around you. We do this with appreciation and understanding of your dreams, your lifestyle and your budget.

Let’s talk. Whether it’s because you’re ready to kick off a project or have the inkling of an idea that you’d like to give voice to, we’re always happy to start a conversation.

Call Lisa on 021 136 3730 Lisa Day, Registered Architect info@dayarchitects.co.nz Level 1, 345 Remuera Road, Remuera

Sydney Beauty

‘Where timeless elegance meets personalised beauty.’

Step into a realm of opulence at Sydney Beauty Salon, where elegance converges with rejuvenation. Specialising in transformative experiences, on offer are bespoke luxury facials, cutting-edge age management treatments, lavish cashmere eyelash extensions, and revitalising lymphatic body sculpt massages.

Clients immerse in a sanctuary of wellbeing, where every detail is crafted for ultimate comfort and beauty. Skin-centric therapists curate personalised journeys, redefining beauty through sophistication. At this salon, each treatment is an exquisite revelation, unveiling timeless allure in the most indulgent and refined manner. sydneybeauty.co.nz

The Wool Shop

The Wool Shop is your friendly neighbourhood yarn store in the heart of Remuera!

With a variety of beautiful yarns as well as oodles of patterns, we’re bound to have what you need for your next project. We also have a comprehensive haberdashery range and offer one on one knitting and crochet lessons.

You're also welcome to join our free knitting clubs on Mondays and Thursdays. We’re contactable on 09 941 8998 and found down Airlie Court 7 days a week with free parking on the roof!

Come in and meet the team or explore our website remuerawoolshop.co.nz

The Little Book Shop thelittlebookshop.co.nz

Tucked away as part of Remuera’s current best kept secret, the 1050 Precinct, you will find The Little Book Shop. This beautiful bookstore has been created for all readers – whether you read for joy, relaxation, knowledge, and anything between or beyond, we have you covered. For in reading you are growing; your mind is positively coloured.

Literacy is the first and single greatest skill we expect our education system to deliver and yet, so many in our modern age once past their formal educations, largely give up on reading beyond the essential mechanics of life. And this is despite the fact that most recognise they really should read more. And they would be right, for as Mark Twain so eloquently put it, “those who do not read have no advantage over those who cannot read”.

Whether you get your books from The Little Book Shop or elsewhere – though we’d kind of prefer you visited us! – read more, it’s good for you!

The Little Book Shop is located within the 1050 Precinct at 415 Remuera Road, behind the high street, between Clonburn Road and St Vincent Avenue.

Baradene College

OPEN DAYS 2024

Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 February 2024 Tour bookings will open in February 2024 Please refer to our website www.baradene.school.nz Baradene College of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic Girls School providing an outstanding, holistic education for Year 7-13 students, enabling them to reach their potential, and make a positive contribution to society.

Baradene is part of a global network of over 140 colleges of the Sacred Heart.

Applications for Year 7 2025 are being accepted now and will close 3pm Friday, 15 March 2024.

Academic and Special Character Scholarships available.

For enrolment information visit www.baradene.school.nz/enrol For an enrolment pack please contact Felicity Lister.

E: flister@baradene.school.nz T: 524 6019 ext 713

Educating and empowering confident young women

NEED A DOCTOR? REMUERA VILLAGE MEDICAL CENTRE IS ENROLLING NEW PATIENTS NOW. ·

General & Family Medicine

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Free Well Child Checks

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Immunisations

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Minor Surgery

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Travel Advice & Immunisations

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Blood tests Remuera Village Medical Centre (RVMC) has been caring for the community at the same location in Upland Village for over 50 years. We are a boutique practice where patients are more than just a number. A team of six doctors will be happy to take care of your health and wellbeing.

ENROL NOW ON OUR WEBSITE www.rvmc.co.nz OR EMAIL US admin@rvmc.co.nz

597 REMUERA ROAD, REMUERA PHONE 524 5447

New Mikko Men’s Since 2013, Mikko Shoes has provided stylish, European footwear for women, with unparalleled comfort and quality in mind.

Now, the family-owned company is proud to offer Kiwi men the same high-quality experience, personalised service and breadth of international brands – via Mikko Men’s new in store and online experience.

“The feedback for Mikko Men’s as a concept was incredibly strong. We were hearing that men wanted more durability, technical innovation and sophisticated style without compromising on comfort,” says founder Michaela Longstaff.

Like Mikko Women’s, the Men’s offering comprises a unique mix of premium, high-quality brands.

“Many of our customers will recognise men’s footwear brands they have purchased from overseas and haven’t been able to purchase before in New Zealand. We have carefully selected over a dozen international brands, many of which are exclusive to Mikko Men's in New Zealand.”

Since opening in Christchurch in September, Mikko Men’s has taken off, and now, the team have opened their first Auckland store in Remuera.

Shop online at mikkomens.nz or visit their new Auckland store at 351 Remuera Road, Remuera.

We are passionate about providing exceptional quality, comfort and sophisticated style.

351 Remuera Road, Remuera 09 281 3147 www.mikkomens.nz

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cocohills.co.nz 488 Remuera Road, Remuera

Cocohills: Elevating Interiors WORDS — MILLY NOLAN

Situated in Remuera, Cocohills beholds a gorgeous range of designer furniture and homeware. Offering a wider range online, as well as an interior design service, owner Heather Walker is your go-to lady for coveted pieces.

Leaving behind her corporate career over a decade ago, Heather Walker decided to seize control of her destiny and instead follow her passion for interiors. Initially, Cocohills began as a consignment store for designer furniture, however over the years, the store has evolved alongside Heather’s love for interior design and is now home to a beautifully curated collection of hand-picked furniture and homeware pieces sourced from over 20 wholesalers.

A firm favourite with locals, Cocohills has a neighbourhood boutique feel, yet thanks to its online presence, Heather has customers all over New Zealand and ships nationwide. The growth of the store can be attributed to the numerous referrals from Heather’s loyal customers who shop with her time-andtime again.

“I think what sets Cocohills apart, and why we have such a broad customer base, is because I don’t adhere to a single aesthetic,” says Heather. “We offer an extensive range of furniture to suit all styles, tastes and budgets.”

of industry knowledge and experience makes the process enjoyable for her clients, as well as stress-free.

“For those looking to furnish a new or existing property, the furniture and interiors industry can be overwhelming,” says Heather. “If someone comes to me looking for a particular piece, whether for a single room or an entire house, I will go above and beyond to find it for them.

“Understanding budgets is crucial - I find it immensely satisfying to fulfil my clients’ interior dreams within their financial means. I’m also the queen of mix-and-matching highend designer pieces with affordable-yet-stylish items.”

Not one to sit still, Heather has always had a greater vision for Cocohills. Excitingly, she has recently unveiled a bespoke line of sofas, ottomans, and headboards under the Cocohills brand.

Collaborating with a local upholsterer, her designs are now on display in her showroom and online. Each item is customisable, allowing clients to select from a range of fabric options, leg styles, sizes, and more. “I feel very proud to be selling highquality New Zealand-made furniture at affordable prices,” says Heather. Future plans for other new product lines are also underway – watch this space.

Heather also offers her expertise through an interior styling service, diligently sourcing the perfect pieces to complement her clients’ spaces from her wide network of suppliers and local furniture makers. Heather’s hands-on-approach, and wealth

“I have plenty of fire in my belly which helps fuel my passion for creating beautiful yet functional homes for my clients through perfectly selected pieces,” says Heather. “While Cocohills has now reached a very rewarding stage, I’m excited to push it to even further heights in the future.”

Welcome to Remuera

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1. Oslo Ottoman 2 . Manhattan Sofa 3. Zara Ottoman 4. Eva Headboard 5. Urban Sofa 6. Ricco Ottoman 7. Madrid Sectional Sofa 8. Milan Modular Sofa 9. Ella Headboard

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Coaching Success Verve gets some inspiration from Rosie Holt of Rosie Holt High Performance Coaching.

Please let us know a bit about your journey and what led you to start your coaching business?

When running my previous business, I was constantly spinning my wheels in the mud, directionless and surviving on guesswork. I know how much need there is for female founders and creatives to have support when growing their business. Now I help female founders and entrepreneurs get clarity on what gets them results, overcome procrastination and transform their business.

Do you have any words of advice for those wishing to start their own business?

Know that things will go wrong. Having the mindset that all problems have solutions instead of getting derailed by one misstep allows you to continue. We often learn more from our mistakes than from our successes.

What do you believe are the key ingredients for building businesses?

• A willingness to learn.

• A willingness to fail.

• Knowing that a decision made quickly is better than no decision made at all.

• Having someone to hold you accountable.

• Ignore the ‘should’ tasks. Focus instead on the things which will get you one step closer to achieving your goals.

Please tell us about the various programmes you offer.

I have four programmes and workshops that help businesses owners, depending on what they’re finding most challenging.

A+ BUSINESS IDEA sessions are 60-minute strategy sessions to help you gain clarity on specific struggles and sticking points. We work through your struggles and identify the specific action steps you need to take to get unstuck, find solutions to your problems and overcome them.

ASSESS workshops are for businesses who need to get the basics down and lay the groundwork to build a profitable, scalable business. More than just setting goals, we identify your big WHY, and mission and vision.

ACCELERATE programmes create new beliefs to ensure you’re more productive and gain clarity on the essential tasks which will grow your business and create a robust plan that guarantees you will achieve your goals.

AMPLIFY programmes go one step further with marketing and branding sessions to transform your business, enabling you to get crystal clear on your message, attract perfect-fit clients, and dig deep into your goals.

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Can you share a success story of a client achieving good things under your guidance?

The client who comes to mind is Patty who was running three businesses and struggling. There was no certainty, no direction, and no plan for professional or personal growth. She eventually turned her overwhelm, uncertainty and self-doubt into an easy-to-execute, clear plan which made her more focussed and efficient. After just three sessions she had achieved the first of many goals she’d set for herself.

Is there anything more you’d like to add?

Until the end of the year, we’re offering 50% off our six-week ACCELERATE program. If you are a business owner, a creative or an entrepreneur who wants to turn their overwhelm and uncertainty into an easy-to-execute plan that will guarantee you achieve your business and personal goals, I can help. Afterall, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. What have you got to lose? rosieholt.co Instagram @rosie.coaches

Get tickets to our first in person workshop on Saturday February 10th at The Village, Herne Bay.

Beyond Financial Literacy

ABOVE: JAMIE AND JOVAN

SquareOne is an app crafted by Kiwi dads, Jamie Jermain and Jovan Pavlicevic, to assist kids in understanding the relationship between earning and spending money – and the importance of saving it.

What motivated you to create SquareOne?

Jovan: Jamie and I were disappointed with the lack of tools to teach our kids how to manage money in a digital world. Our kids were watching us tap our ‘magic cards’ to buy things but couldn’t quite make sense of what was going into it.

We built SquareOne to give kids the kickstart we wish we had when learning about money and move the conversation from just being financially literate to actually understanding what being good with money means!

Tell us about SquareOne, its features, and what sets it apart?

Jamie: SquareOne is an app, bank account. and debit card for kids to manage their own money and give them the simple tools to learn healthy lifelong habits. Parents can set up paid chores, and kids can set their own saving goals and work towards bigticket purchases.

We built SquareOne with safety and security top-of-mind.

Parents have total control and oversight of their kid's account with real-time notifications, the ability to block the card or certain transactions and auto blocks on R18 merchants and cash withdrawals. We also understand that no two parenting styles are the same so we give parents the control to set up their family account, their way,

make mistakes and practise making money. It needs to go beyond just theory. The analogy we use time and time again is learning to play rugby: you’ve got to understand the rules and tactics, but unless you get out there, you’ll never improve.

The app seems like a great way for families to bond over learning about finances?

Jamie: The reaction to SquareOne has been unbelievable.

Parents and kids all over New Zealand have taken to it so well, and they’re loving it.

We’ve got over 170,000 Kiwis using SquareOne and we’re consistently blown away by the amazing stories we hear from parents about what their kids are doing with the app. So far this year we’ve had 737,206 jobs completed in the SquareOne app, and over $1.8 million earned in extra pocket money!

The best bit is, that SquareOne kids are saving about 22% of their earnings! Something we adults could learn a thing or two from!

To sign up to SquareOne

Simply search SquareOne on either the App Store or Google Play from your mobile device. Your first 30 days are free and then it’s only $4.99 for the whole family per month so try it out and see if it’s right for you and your family!

How does SquareOne instil these skills without making it feel like a lesson?

Jovan: The app encourages families to talk about what being great with money means and gives them all the tools to learn, 151

December / January

Box Office ABOVE: PERFECT DAYS

THE OLD OAK In cinemas 30 November

The Old Oak is a special place. Not only is it the last pub standing, but it’s also the only remaining public space where people can meet in a once-thriving

ONE LIFE In cinemas 26 December

mining community that has seen 30 hard years of decline. TJ Ballantyne, the landlord, hangs on to The Old Oak by his fingertips, and his predicament is endangered even more when the pub becomes contested territory after the arrival of Syrian refugees who are placed in the village without any notice.

In an unlikely friendship, TJ meets a curious young Syrian woman, Yara, who has a camera. Can they find a way for the two communities to understand each other? So unfolds a deeply moving drama about their fragilities and hopes.

ANYONE BUT YOU In cinemas 26 December

Art & About

In the edgy comedy Anyone But You, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) look like the perfect couple, but after an amazing first date something happens that turns their fiery hot attraction ice cold - until they find themselves unexpectedly thrust together at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.

Starring Sir Anthony Hopkins, Johnny Flynn and Helena Bonham Carter, One Life tells the inspiring true story of Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton, whose unsung endeavours on the eve of World War II saved more than 600 children from their doom at the hands of the Nazis.

Nicky considered himself a banker, not a humanitarian. Yet when he visited a recently annexed Prague in 1938 and saw the state of the fleeing Jewish refugees, he did what he believed was the right thing to do – the thing that anyone would do – and dedicated himself to the cause. War was approaching, and it was a race against time. How many children could he liberate before it ran out?

Fifty years later, it’s 1988 and Nicky is haunted by the fate of the children he wasn’t able to help. And so it’s not until he’s surprised by the survivors on live television that he can accept that when facing devastating atrocities, saving even one life is a victory, and the British public learn the truth about the hero hidden in their midst.

PERFECT DAYS In cinemas 25 January

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Hirayama seems utterly content with his simple life as a cleaner of toilets in Tokyo. Outside of his very structured everyday routine he enjoys his passion for music and for books. And he loves trees and takes photos of them. A series of unexpected encounters gradually reveal more of his past. A deeply moving and poetic reflection on finding beauty in the everyday world around us.

Summerset St Johns selling off plans now* Summerset St Johns is excited to announce our much anticipated second release of homes are selling off plans now.* This includes the most sought after premium and penthouse apartments, which offer incredible uninterrupted views out towards Rangitoto and the city.

Once complete, the village will offer a range of sophisticated retirement residences, enviable resort style facilities, and Summerset’s renowned continuum of care. All designed with luxury in mind and to help you get the most out of your retirement years. Set in the heart of the eastern suburbs, this is a location you can be proud to call home.

Visit our sales suite today and get a taste of the Summerset St Johns experience.

Visit our sales suite today

Open Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm Summerset St Johns sales suite 400 Remuera Road, Remuera 09 950 7982 | stjohns.sales@summerset.co.nz

*All Summerset homes are sold under a licence to occupy and are subject to availability. Image is artist impression as of January 2023.

SUM5504_FP

thefoundationvillage.co.nz

Retire in Style Verve chats with Graham Wilkinson, director of Generus Living Group.

What was your vision for The Foundation?

To create a world class haven of sophistication and care for seniors. A place for residents to enjoy their retirement years with security, vitality and engagement. The Foundation was always designed to be a bespoke community where historic and contemporary architecture intertwine in keeping with the Parnell Precinct’s unique history and heritage buildings.

How is The Foundation unique compared to other premium retirement villages?

The Foundation site is unique in terms of both its heritage and location. As with Generus Living’s five other villages, it’s in a style that complements the unique surrounding environment.

As pioneers in upscale retirement villages, we have a proven track record and bring our hotel experience to village living.

Residents moving to our communities know what to expect because we have spent more than 15 years carefully crafting our offerings from key learnings.

What stage are you at in the build programme?

It was superb to welcome The Foundation’s first residents to Nathan Residences in October. This is the first of three buildings which will make up the village. Work is now underway on the second building, Abbott Residences, which includes a rooftop terrace providing a covered sky pavilion and courtyard garden with views over the museum and harbour.

Seismic strengthening has begun on Pearson House, the neo-Georgian building opposite the Auckland Domain, and refurbishment will follow to include a cafe, library, cinema, gym, and lounges. This is our ’private Northern Club’ for residents and their friends.

building will house residential care and memory assisted facilities, a restaurant and bar, a wellness centre with pool, and apartments above.

What kind of amenities and services are currently available to residents?

We are committed to providing an unparalleled living environment that extends beyond luxurious amenities – personalised service underpins The Foundation experience.

Residents can enjoy exclusive access to a range of premium services. Currently, these include a dedicated Club Lounge providing a sophisticated space for residents to meet socialise and entertain, access to a 24-7 concierge service, and in-apartment room service including options to assist with entertaining.

The Foundation provides residents with the choice of a self-drive Mercedes or the luxury of a chauffeured vehicle service. Additionally, Nathan Residences has a wellness clinic overseen by a registered nurse which not only complements existing care relationships, but also provides residents with further assurance in respect to their wellbeing.

How does the partnership with Generus Living Group and owners of the Parnell Precinct, Blind Low Vision NZ, work?

The Foundation is an equal partnership between Generus Living and Foundation Properties Limited, the propertyowning company of Blind Low Vision NZ. As part of the partnership, Blind Low Vision has now relocated to new fit-for-purpose premises on the ground level of Nathan Residences.

To find out more visit thefoundationvillage.co.nz or email enquiries@thefoundationvillage.co.nz

Pearson Residences, The Foundation’s third building at the rear of Pearson House, is expected to start construction in 2026, once Abbott Residences are nearing completion. The

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Unve i l i ng th e B e s t Re t i r e m e n t Ad d re s s i n Au ck l an d The Foundation is about retirement without compromise. It is a place for you to enjoy your retirement years with security, vitality and engagement. The Nathan Residences are now complete and the show apartment is available to view by appointment.

To view the show apartment or see the plans for the next stage of The Foundation, please contact Bev Dyson.

541 PARNELL ROAD

THE FOUNDATIONVILLAGE.CO.NZ

09 869 3947

On the Bookshelf Perfect gift books for the whole family to enjoy.

WORDS — KAREN MCMILLAN, bestselling author karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz

THE WRITER’S GARDEN Jackie Bennett and Richard Hanson

PLATED: A LIFETIME LOVE AFFAIR WITH FOOD Tina Duncan

Cook, caterer and cooking school tutor Tina Duncan generously shares her favourite recipes in a stunning cookbook that will become your ultimate kitchen companion. With a foreword by Maggie Beer, Plated has delicious recipes and all the tips on how to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with people you care about. Truly superb and the photography is outstanding.

This sumptuous book features gardens from some literary greats throughout the decades, creating a visually stunning and intriguing book with a difference.

Thirty iconic authors and their gardens are featured in this beautifully presented tome featuring the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Louisa May Alcott, Agatha Christie, Beatrix Potter, and Leo Tolstoy.

It offers a unique insight into their gardens and lives.

Camberdown Press, RRP $60

Murdoch Books, RRP $75

WOT KNOT YOU GOT? Selina Tusitala Marsh

COLLECTIVELY HOMEGROWN Nadia and Elke, Husk and Honey

This quirky, illustrated self-help book humorously unravels the knots that keep us up at night. From one of Aotearoa’s most joyful authors, Selina’s moppy mayhem is infectious and uplifting. This is a book that will appeal to anyone from eight to 80, and amid the creative fun, there are some great strategies for anyone with a twisty knot that is getting them down.

With all the profits going to Women’s Refuge NZ, Collectively Homegrown is a collaboration with local chefs and home cooks from around Aotearoa. The recipes are diverse and delicious, with everything from fusion food to nostalgic treats to modern twists on family favourites.

There are plant-based recipes, dishes with meat and fish, as well as superb, sweet treats. Beautifully presented and created with love.

Auckland University Press, RRP $29.99

Key & Co Publishers, RRP $49.99

Art & About

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Ranfurly Village

A sense of

Community RETIREMENT LIVING WITH HERITAGE & CONNECTION

Retirement apartments selling from $625,000, to learn more call Bev Dyson 09 625 3420 539 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings ranfurlyvillage.co.nz

The Art of December

CURATED BY— AIMÉE RALFINI

ARTWORK: MICHAEL MCHUGH, BELLEVUE IN SITU, COURTESY OF FÖENANDER GALLERIES

The holiday season, when so many evacuate the city, remains an excellent time to leisurely take in a show at your favourite local gallery.

This seasons highlights include; Art & About

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TRISH CLARK GALLERY The XX Factor 3.0 Stella Brennan, Gil Hanly, Susan Leonard, Julia Morison, Nova Paul, Tia Ranginui, Marie Shannon, Heather Straka, Christine Webster On until 23 December

The XX Factor 3.0, broadly focussed on portraiture, and shines a lens on the practices of nine local artists spanning three generations whose works engage with expanded notions of portraiture.

Staying true to the feminist adage that the personal is political, The XX Factor 3.0 combines portraiture’s biographical elements and historicalpolitical implications so the localised yet expansive conduit of personal experience gives expression to this complex relation. With works bridging personal biography and social, cultural, and technological histories, the artists have utilized diverging technologies and embodied knowledge to both investigate their presents and to imagine possible futures.

TE TUHI Summer Exhibitions at Te Tuhi Wu Tsang, Yukari 海堀 Kaihori, Caryline Boreham, Louisa Afoa, Luke Shaw, Ardit Hoxha On until 28 Jan 2024

142 Great North Road, Grey Lynn.

Portals and Omens: New Work from the Collection Group show of contemporary acquisitions On until 7 July 2024

Audio artist and musician Luke Shaw presents (Re)Calling Home, a new audio work referencing sunlight-reflected Morse-code messages.

Art creates a portal to other eras and places while also affecting our perception of contemporary life. Portals and Omens: New Work from the Collection tracks artistic movements from home and across the globe, interlacing recent acquisitions from the Gallery’s New Zealand and International collections.

Louisa Afoa presents Essential Household Items, a still-life photographic series opening up questions around intergenerational differences and artist–writer Ardit Hoxha presents Lost Dream[s], a largescale, text-based work across Te Tuhi’s billboard sites in Pakuranga and Parnell.

Curated by Natasha Conland, this free entry exhibition contemplates how we ‘travel’ with art – how artists respond to history and the world we inhabit. Key themes include: passports and portals; forewarning and foreboding; utopias and dystopia; the sublime disrupted; and guides and shamans.

Cnr Kitchener and Wellesley Streets, CBD. aucklandartgallery.com

Yukari 海堀 Kaihori presents Two Sides Of The Moon, a new installation drawing on practices located in Japanese folk animism, considering the life-force in materials and things.

Caryline Boreham presents Disco Volante, examining archival material from official records of UFO sightings in Aotearoa New Zealand.

trishclark.co.nz

AUCKLAND ART GALLERY TOI O TĀMAKI

For this season of exhibitions at Te Tuhi, five newly commissioned works by artists from across Aotearoa New Zealand are shown alongside the first New Zealand presentation of a major video work by award-winning filmmaker and performance artist Wu Tsang. Wu Tsang’s One Emerging From A Point Of View, is a large-scale, twochannel overlapping video projection intertwining two disparate narratives through synchronised camera choreography.

13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga. tetuhi.art

FÖENANDER GALLERIES Archipelago Michael McHugh On until 24 December

Michael McHugh’s paintings reflect an instantly familiar vision of Pacific forms and nature’s exuberance, as well as a highly personal perception of subject matter. McHugh’s playfulness is complemented by an abstract logic, which breaks forms down into lively compositions of geometry, texture and colour, where structures flow and grow through the paintings, creating vibrant textures and patterns which overwhelm the scenes.

455 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden. foenandergalleries.co.nz

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December / January

The Art of Graham Young 2024 Calendar

Featuring 12 of the latest images from Graham’s popular range of paintings. Size: 240mm x 340mm From nostalgic baches on coastal beaches to quirky old buildings in forgotten rural places.

This is a slice of Kiwiana for yourself, family and friends or for sending overseas.

On sale at leading booksellers and stationers or direct from grahamyoungartist.com

WWW.AIGANTIGHE.CO.NZ

Henry John Yeend King, Still Waters, c.1890, Oil on Canvas.

THE HOME OF ART IN SOUTH CANTERBURY

Presented By

Future Foundations What happens if I lose the ability to make decisions for myself?

Life can be uncertain, and there may come a time through illness or injury that you’re unable to make decisions yourself. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead.

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf regarding your care, welfare, and financial matters if you can’t do this yourself. These legal documents can protect your best interests and ensure you and your loved ones are being looked after.

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There are two types of EPAs: 1. Enduring Power of Attorney for Personal Care and Welfare. This EPA only comes into effect if you become ‘mentally incapable’ and enables your attorney to make medical or other related decisions about your care and welfare.

2. Enduring Power of Attorney for Property. This can come into effect before you become ‘mentally incapable’ or only when you’re not able to make decisions about your financial affairs.

Should you become mentally incapable before having an EPA in place, your loved ones may need to apply for a Family Court order. This can be a time-consuming and costly process. Worse yet, the judge is reliant on the information provided to them and will not necessarily know who you trust or rely on to appoint as a decision maker.

The team at Dawsons Lawyers can help arrange your EPAs and give you peace of mind over decisions made about your financial matters and personal care and welfare. Contact us today to make an appointment to see one of our lawyers at either our Kohimarama or East Tamaki office. We also offer an easy online solution through our website for creating your EPAs in your own time with the support of our team.

Claire Endean – Director dawsonslawyers.co.nz | (09) 272 0002

THE BLACK SEEDS MAUDE WINE LOUNGE WINE & DINE with AKARUA QUARTZ REEF MASTERCLASS BREWS X VIEWS GLENDHU SOCIAL CLUB

What's On in December

Art & About

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WORDS — BELLA SAMPSON

BASEMENT CHRISTMAS SHOW 1-22 December Basement Theatre

The infamous Basement Christmas Show is back, and this time with bells on.

The Jingle Bellethon Telethon promises a chaotic time and as per basement tradition, a revolving cast of comedians.

The mostly scripted show with elements of improv, promises an exciting, fun and unique show each night.

COCA-COLA CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK 9 December Auckland Domain

iticket.co.nz

YOGA IN THE SKY 9-10 December The SkyTower

If you’re after a more elevated yoga experience, look no further. This unforgettable sunrise experience sets you 186 metres above the city, with 360-degree views looking across its entirety. This class is suitable for yogis of all levels, including beginners.

If you’re looking for a wholesome Christmas event to get into the season's spirit, Christmas in the Park has you covered. Headlined by Kaylee Bell, the show is packed with the country's most talented singers, dancers and personalities. It’s no wonder they call it the ‘happiest night of the year’. coke.co.nz

CHRIST, WHAT A NIGHT! 12-16 December Q Theatre

Join Chris Parker, Tom Sainsbury, Brinley Stent and more for this festive and camp retelling of the nativity story.

The show premiered in Christchurch last year and was sold out for its entire season. With the talented original cast of comedians returning, forget all notions of a silent night.

skycityauckland.co.nz/sky-tower qtheatre.co.nz

LOVE ACTUALLY IN CONCERT 16 December The Civic

How do you enhance a Christmas film that places multiple lobsters and an octopus in the nativity scene? Add a full orchestra to play the chart-topping soundtrack alongside a screening of the film. Love Actually is equal parts hilarious and charming, with an impressive ensemble cast.

RYDGES NEW YEARS PARTY 31 December The Rydges Hotel

Treat yourself to a glamorous New Year's Eve at Rydges. This rooftop party has DJs, a beverage package, canapes, dinner, dessert, a chocolate fountain, and champagne at midnight. Oh, and arguably one of the best views of the fireworks on offer. rydges.com

ticketmaster.co.nz

SUNSETTER FESTIVAL 20 January North Harbour Domain

The team at Highlife are renowned for their ability to go above and beyond when it comes to events, and Sunsetter Festival is no different. From midday to 10pm, enjoy a talented mix of international and local acts, along with top-notch wineries, breweries, spirits, and delectable cuisines. It’s a symphony for the senses.

FOO FIGHTERS 20 January Mt Smart Stadium

Experience an energetic evening with the 15-time Grammy-winning rock icons as they deliver their chart-topping hits, powerful vocals, and undeniable stage presence. Returning with their critically acclaimed 11th album, But Here We Are, described as having the energy of their earlier sound refined by decades of informed maturity and depth. ticketmaster.co.nz

sunsetterfestival.co.nz

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December / January

Tātai whetū ki te rangi, tātai tāngata ki te whenua

Ïn a class of its own.

199 Main Highway, Ellerslie 1051, Auckland 09 281 3 481 office@ellerslieveterinaryclinic.nz

Lucy's Corner This month Verve’s star teen reviewer LUCY KENNEDY gets goosebumps binging on Yellowjackets.

Yellowjackets - 18+ IMAGE: YELLOWJACKETS

Wine-dark blood seeps into freshly fallen snow. Great, dark, looming pine trees conquer land as far as the eye can see. Flower crowns and cannibalism, ritualistic worship and haunting wilderness entities… this is Showtime’s Yellowjackets. A girl's football team boards a plane to play in a national competition.

Unfortunately, they never make it, as their plane crashes deep within remote wilderness, leaving them stranded. The series follows their desperate attempts to survive the wilderness as they descend into cult-like rituals, sacrifice, and the belief that something – something unknown, ancient, and all-powerful – is out there with them. This is paired with the surviving girls’ future counterparts as they navigate life after the horrors they faced in the wilderness.

Available to stream on Neon.

5/5 stars Instagram: @lucykennedyreviews

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Part of the reason why the show is so engaging is because half is set in the past, in the wilderness, and the other half in the future. This means that there are two separate plotlines – the adult survivors as they try to leave the acts they committed

in the wilderness firmly in the past, and the girls wrestling to survive in the woods. To me this represents how the survivors can’t leave their past behind, because in some way they are still there, struggling to survive. Yellowjackets is a blood-soaked, shrieking, disturbed exploration of girlhood, survival, and the nature of human response to traumatic events. It is truly incredible, and absolutely addictive, with a fantastic soundtrack – I even discovered some new favourite songs from the show!

It’s pumped full of 90s goodness, with bands like Hole, The Smashing Pumpkins, and the Cranberries. I’ve recommended this show to everyone I know, and I’m recommending it to you, too. Terrifying, devastating, disturbing, beautiful, and glorious – you won’t be to look away.

Quest has turned 25, and there’s a lot to celebrate.

STAY IN THE HEART OF CHRISTCHURCH Quest on Cambridge opening this November. Enjoy introductory rates from $135 per night for stays from 15th November 2023 to 14th January 2024*.

OUR SUSTAINABILITY QUEST We’ve replaced almost all single-use plastic toiletries with dispensers - removing 3.68 tonnes of plastic out of circulation.

We’re also recycling old soap bars into new ones together with Soap Aid. Find out more at soapaid.org *Rates start at $135 for a studio and $155 for a 1-bedroom apartment all booked via the Quest App and the Quest website. All bookings must be for stays between November 15th 2023 to January 14th 2024 to qualify for the introductory rate.

QUESTAPARTMENTS.CO.NZ

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Triple the celebration.

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Luxury Boutique Accommodation nestled in the Waitakere Ranges SUMMER SPECIAL $580pp including brunch & complimentary champagne on arrival, including brunch, complimentary champagne and Porsche Cayenne.

Private big game fishing charter on Auckland’s West Coast and beyond available from December to May.

BOOK ONLINE AT MAISONBLANCLODGE.COM

alpineluxurytours.co.nz

All Aboard!

Verve takes a ride with founder of Alpine Luxury Tours, Lee Saunders.

What motivated you to found Alpine Luxury Tours and how has it evolved?

The motivation came from within, to create and customise tours for the luxury market and meet amazing people from the world over and offer them bucket list experiences like never before.

I’ve worked hard to make Alpine Luxury Tours what it is today, nurturing relationships with locals and agents and giving back to our environment through our sustainability programme.

Having grown up in and around Queenstown, I know the region like the back of my hand; and if there’s somewhere I haven’t been, it’s likely because I know at least five places that beat it!

What makes Alpine Luxury Tours so special?

We’ve worked hard over the years to create long-lasting relationships with landowners, businesses, and local suppliers, allowing us to provide exclusive, bespoke experiences. Our ability to be flexible and tailor tours gives our guests the very best experience. Our guides work tirelessly to provide a tour like no other.

surprising our guests with freshly shucked bluff oysters and champagne. An incredible experience beneath the towering waterfalls and hanging glacier above. A moment in time they’ll never forget.

What advice would you give someone planning a trip to Queenstown for the first time, and why should they consider booking a tour with Alpine Luxury Tours as part of their itinerary?

Firstly, you’ve picked the best place to visit! Secondly, let us know your interests, location – we do cater for full New Zealand tours – timeline, and budget, then let us do the rest. We’ll cater to your needs and requirements and allow you to have the holiday of your dreams. Throw in a bucket list experience or two and you’ll remember this holiday for many years to come!

To find out more call 027 257 4632 or email lee@alpineluxurytours.co.nz

What sort of vehicles do you use?

We use only Mercedes Luxury European vehicles with leather seats, more leg room, and the highest safety regulations.

Our guests will remind us frequently how comfortable and accessible our vehicles are. We believe that if our guests are comfortable and at ease it transforms their experience from an okay one, to the luxury experience we provide.

Your tours often include wine and culinary experiences. Tell us about your favourite food and wine pairing experience?

We have fantastic wine and food pairings but one that stands out was flying into Middle Earth Waterfalls via helicopter and

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December / January

Lisa Thorsen LLB/PG Cert Law

Licensed Salesperson

M +64 21 442 655 lisa.thorsen@nzsir.com

An Eastern Bays local with over 20 years experience in real estate and law, Lisa provides clients with care, support and meticulous detail. Her clever marketing combined with solid legal knowledge, have resulted in a proven record selling high end properties. Thinking of selling? Give Lisa a call.

Stay somewhere magical Step into a world of lavishly premium geodesic dome accommodation, explore the dramatic scenery, and discover the wonders of Lake Hāwea, near Wānaka. With all the creature comforts of a lavish home away from home, Cross Hill is the perfect place for a romantic summer getaway. Go on, you deserve to treat yourself to something truly special, Cross Hill Lodge and Domes in Lake Hāwea.

393 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers, Auckland NZSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

LAKE HAWEA, NEW ZEALAND

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

Prestige Marketing 2015 Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ

CROSSHILL.CO.NZ | 027 226 0290 | STAY@CROSSHILL.CO.NZ

KIMBERLEY | THE ULTIMATE EXPLORER’S PARADISE

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To find out more about Silversea and the Kimberley, contact Helloworld Travel St Heliers today.

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41 St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers

*T&Cs apply. For full terms and conditions please contact your helloworld Travel Professional.

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“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles” Tim Cahill

Come cycling in stunning Central Otago.

Check-in with the experts, we personalise everything to your needs.

Great multiday adventures for everyone.

Two day fantastic rides.

Long weekends and our awesome One Day Wonders.

Lake Dunstan shuttles and bike hire.

Now booking for 2024 / 2025

Otago Central Rail Trail Roxburgh Gorge Trail Clutha Gold Trail Lake Dunstan Trail

PICTURED:

ROXBURGH GORGE TRAIL

CONTACT: 0800 245 366 NZ freephone | INFO@BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ | BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ

WIN A WEEKEND IN MATAKANA AND A $500 MATAKANA VILLAGE GIFT CARD Buy a Matakana Village Gift Card and enter yourself for a chance to win!

Imagine waking up on a serene Saturday morning at the charming White Cottage, leisurely strolling over to the village, grabbing a coffee, and planning a day of exploration with a $500 Matakana Village Gift Card to guide your adventure. The gift card is accepted everywhere in the village, so you can spend it shopping, dining, at the cinema, and more.

Starting from just $20, every gift card purchased gets you one free entry to the competition.

To enter, visit: matakanavillage.co.nz/giftcard

Or scan me with your phone camera!

T&Cs apply: matakanavillage.co.nz/gift-card-competition-terms

Horoscopes SAGITTARIUS 22 November – 21 December

CAPRICORN 22 December – 19 January

AQUARIUS 20 January – 18 February

Horoscopes

This month points to a more private period for your love life or affections. It can also point to benefits to working behind the scenes or special enjoyment of solitude and periods for extra rest and healing. The last week of the month finds you seeking out predictability, comfort and security, launching one of the best periods of the year for money matters.

You’re likely to feel in an exceptionally generous and possibly philosophical mood. This is an opportunity-period for finances, gifts, bonuses, family relationships, recognition for your work or natural talents, and stellar moneymaking or project ideas with longterm appeal and profitability. This is a beautiful time for learning or expanding a project, as well as activities related to promotion, publishing, education, communications, the law, and travel.

PISCES

Your ambitions are stimulated. While you have a strong sense of the rules, you are at your best when employing strategies. Negotiations should go very well. You might benefit from keeping someone’s confidence or you may receive recognition for work you’ve done in the past. Healing activities are in focus. New ideas flow well. This can also be an almost magical time for financial and business matters.

ARIES

19 February – 20 March

21 March – 19 April

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This month finds you seeking out predictability, comfort, and security for money matters. A good idea can blossom now. You are capable of quite a bit of work if you can foresee an improved financial position or a more secure state of being. This period could also stir up old financial or relationship problems. The tendency now is to react quickly, but you might want to get in touch with your heart’s desire before taking action.

Your appeal is high, and people thoroughly enjoy your art, craft, or ideas. It’s a natural time for you to reflect and move a little more slowly than usual. This allows you to catch up emotionally with recent events and circumstances. There can be a tendency for you or a partner to be touchy, or for arguments to emerge seemingly out of nowhere.

manish@manishastrologer.com

TAURUS 20 April – 20 May

GEMINI 21 May – 20 June

CANCER 21 June – 22 July

LEO 23 July – 22 August

WORDS— MANISH KUMAR ARORA

You’re at your best when you work with someone towards a common goal. The best way to use this energy to your advantage is to allow others to inspire and motivate you. Team up and take action so that excess energy is turned outwards. Sharing your feelings or intimate matters can be fun and rewarding. This is a time of love, family travels and joint holiday with loved ones.

VIRGO

A major focus this month is your relationships, companionability, and intimacy. Even so, it’s one of your more ambitious months of the year. You often fare better when the focus is on your projects, loved ones, and work. There is also a pleasant feeling of moving forward, slowly but surely, this month.

You are likely to end this month with a renewed feeling of confidence in your career direction.

LIBRA

You may want to rule the roost now, and this can be successful as long as you’re a gentle leader. You’ll do best if you pursue your goals in a structured or organised manner. You are finding new ways to get along with others, and people are valuing your services. This is a good time to get your feelings out into the open.

SCORPIO

23 August – 22 September

23 September – 22 October

23 October – 21 November

Ownership, sharing, power, and money matters can be at the root of challenges, or the need to make changes becomes evident. You need to accept that change is inevitable and understand that being proactive about it is in your best interests. There can also be bigger emotions felt at home than elsewhere – tempers may be prominent. The trick is to avoid impatience and impulsiveness.

Romance and travel are favoured in December, although both are better after mid-month. Your romantic life continues to stimulate and challenge you, and although part of you might long for a more settled and stable situation, it’s never dull. The month will be more loyal, have a smooth flow, and, most miraculously, smooth out any roughness in a relationship, extinguishing conflict.

It’s a time for seeing yourself better through relationships with others and the world as a whole. Changes of plans can lead to new discoveries, perspectives, and insight that truly improve your life, so don’t dig in your heels too much. This is also a time when you’re not particularly content with simply dreaming, wishing, and hoping for better circumstances.

You tend to want to set your own pace and goals, and you thrive on the small challenges you create for yourself now. You have an easier time putting something behind you now. The second half of the month, personal relationships will have a more smooth and steady flow – there will be peace in family, and spousal relationships will witness longawaited passion and romance.

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December / January

Win

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BUSINESS BOOM

SquareOne is an app + card + bank account that kickstarts Kiwi kids' journeys to being great with money and building healthy financial habits for life. Founded by two Kiwi dads who are on a mission to build a financially capable NZ and make money epic for kids.

High performance business coach Rosie Holt’s six-week Accelerate programme comprise 6x 60-minute strategy calls to work through obstacles that have been preventing your business from growing and being profitable. You will be coached on how to be accountable, to deal with challenges, beat procrastination, and create plans to achieve your goals by breaking them down into achievable steps.

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172

Escape to Wellness!

Win a three-day health and wellness retreat for you and a friend at Resolution Retreats, New Zealand's Best Wellness Retreat, valued at $3,000.

Kickstart 2024 at New Zealand’s only weight loss, health and wellness retreat exclusively for women, bordering the peaceful Lake Karāpiro.

The prize includes luxurious, twin-share chalet accommodation for two, nutritionist-designed meals, and a complimentary Flowpresso lymphatic drainage treatment at the in-house spa.

Activities range from gentle daily yoga and group training sessions to cooking classes, and health workshops. Wellness facilities include saunas, steam room, an indoor mineral salt pool, yoga studio, gym, bushwalks and tennis courts, backed by fulltime facilitator support.

Can be used as credit toward a longer retreat but cannot be exchanged for cash. Dates are subject to availability at time of booking and are not transferable. Must provide own transport to the retreat (excluding the complimentary pick up offered from Hamilton airport). Voucher must be redeemed between 1 January and 1 September 2024. resolutionretreats.co.nz resilienceretreats.co.nz

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7 2 - 1 1 2 G R E E N L A N E E A S T, AU C K L A N D 1 0 5 1

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Marketplace

174

kei Bay Village

raphic Pattern

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Orakei Bay Village

Brand Guidelines

ese can be used on tote bags, gift apping and merchandise.

10

027 688 9920 • www.bettercleaners.co.nz

www.maisonblanclodge.com Graphic Pattern A pattern has been created from the shapes - shop, dine and live.

These geometric patterns reference the area surrounding the space - connecting people to the location, water and harbour views and the leafy streets of Remuera.

These can be used on tote bags, gift wrapping and merchandise.

Orakei Bay Village

Brand Guidelines

10

Graphic Pattern A pattern has been created from the shapes - shop, dine and live.

These geometric patterns reference the area surrounding the space - connecting people to the location, water and harbour views and the leafy streets of Remuera.

Christmas Shopping at the Village These can be used on tote bags, gift wrapping and merchandise.

Brand Guidelines

Orakei Bay Village

Graphics

pattern has been created from the apes - shop, dine and live.

ese geometric patterns reference the a surrounding the space - connecting ople to the location, water and bour views and the leafy streets of muera.

Contact us today

With over 25 shops and eateries, we’ve got all you need.

228 Orakei Bay Road obv.co.nz

Inspired by the tagline, we have three core graphical elements that are used across Orakei Bay Village communication. The first shape for live is the shape of a leaf, the second shape for dine is the shape of a bowl and the final graphic for shop takes inspiration from the shape of a mirror.

Brand Guidelines

10

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164 Kitchener Rd, Milford

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175

December / January

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URBAN FLOWERS

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Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new goto items at Simply Wonderful. ─ 569 Manukau Rd, Epsom 09 630 0084 simplywonderfulclothes.co.nz

Marketplace

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See session times at rialto.co.nz.

176

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