Verve. October 2020. Issue 169.

T R E N Z S E AT E R

O U T D O O R

B R A N D S

AUCKLAND - 80 Parnell Rd, 09 303 4151 CHRISTCHURCH - 121 Blenheim Rd, 03 343 0876 QUEENSTOWN - 313 Hawthorne Dr, 03 441 2363 www.trenzseater.com

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92 What's Inside

8 Pottery Feature 8 Sculptural Design 12 A Gem in New Lynn

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Health, Beauty & Fitness 18 Matters of the Mind 24 Keep Calm and Communicate 30 Good Cubes: Better Built Fashion 49 Spring 2021 Collections

Garden Feature 54 Colour Box 64 Blooming Wonderful 68 Garden Retreats Journeys 70 Beginner's Guide to Road Trips 72 Taumarunui Tempts Weddings 78 Wild Joy

Home & Design 82 Modern Life 92 A Town House in Cambridge Food & Wine 106 Putting Stock in Positivity Art & About 116 Framing a Fairer Future Win 144 Win with Verve

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䌀甀爀愀琀攀 戀礀 吀爀攀氀椀猀攀 䌀漀漀瀀攀爀

䴀愀愀椀欀攀

匀椀爀攀渀

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UP FRONT

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces

Important message if you are planning to paint a multi-million dollar home in Auckland. Don’t spend a single dollar until you read our free report The Insider’s Guide to Painting A Multi-Million Dollar Home in Auckland.

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IN THIS GUIDE YOU WILL LEARN: • Why the first step in your painting job is to identify your I.O. (And why this is so important) • The three expensive mistakes to avoid when painting a multi-million dollar Auckland home • How to quickly tell which painting contractors will do the perfect painting job and which ones won’t • A clever way to make sure you compare ‘apples with apples’ with any painting quotes you receive • How to future proof your painting investment so it lasts at least 25% longer • A simple technique for identifying a common painting problem that 63% of multimillion dollar homes have Go to WALLTREATS.CO.NZ to order your free copy of the insider’s guide to painting your multi-million dollar home in auckland or phone us on 0800 008 168

GOLD WINNER OF 2019 MASTER PAINTER OF THE YEAR

Head Graphic Designer Zanalee Makavani Graphic Designer Ken Khun Social Media Ashlee Lala Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Jackie O’Fee, Melanie Dower, Andrew Kerr, Jenna Moore, Nadia Klaassen, Yamin Cook, Bella Sampson Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) / ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Advertising/Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 jude@vervemagazine.co.nz fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Advertising Sales Ashlee Lala: ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz Pam Brown: pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover Image Gidon Bing, Handless Jug gidonbingceramics.com VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Meadowbank, Epsom, Mission Bay, Kohimarama, Herne Bay, Takapuna and Devonport. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Epsom, Mission Bay, St. Heliers, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Auckland City, Takapuna, Devonport, Stonefields, Milford and Mairangi Bay. Visit ververmagazine.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. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by Ovato, Admail and Mailchimp. vervemagazine.co.nz

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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

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At King’s do you live for the weeks or the weekends?

Yes. kingscollege.school.nz

Week

Weekend

Week

Weekend

Walk to school rather than sit in traffic.

Designated study time to focus on learning.

Run to your own timetable.

A time where the family is the focus.

Editors' Notes This says it all for me! I found the below verse and I love it.

We all need to enjoy our lives, try as live as much as we can in the moment. Enjoy our October issue – it's full of inspiration.

Love Jude xx I am no longer waiting for a special occasion; I burn the best candles on ordinary days.

I am no longer waiting for the house to be clean; I fill it with people who understand that even dust is sacred.

I am no longer waiting for everyone to understand me; it’s just not their task I am no longer waiting for the perfect children; my children have their own names that burn as brightly as any star.

I am no longer waiting for the other shoe to drop; it already did, and I survived.

I am no longer waiting for the time to be right; the time is always now.

I am no longer waiting for the mate who will complete me; I am grateful to be so warmly, tenderly held.

I am no longer waiting for a quiet moment; my heart can be stilled whenever it is called.

I am no longer waiting for the world to be at peace; I unclench my grasp and breathe peace in and out.

I am no longer waiting to do something great; being awake to carry my grain of sand is enough.

I am no longer waiting to be recognized; I know that I dance in a holy circle.

I am no longer waiting for forgiveness.

I believe, I believe. ― Mary Anne Perrone

Let’s start this issue with gratitude, a huge thank you in fact, to our readers, advertisers and contributors, for their encouragement and feedback during this roller-coaster of a year. When our country went into lockdown in late March, we moved swiftly to develop a plan to ensure that we could carry on producing what is expected of our close-knit Verve team, and then some. Since Easter, I feel as if we have learnt so much, most especially that at times like these, media matters, as it keeps us entertained, up-to-date and informed.

The past seven months have revealed other home truths too, things like...

I MISS TRAVEL A couple of weekends ago, I packed a small suitcase and went across to ‘the island’ (Waiheke, to be precise). As I pulled my suitcase down to the bottom of my drive to await the Uber pick-up, the sound of those little wheels rolling across the concrete gave me more joy than I could have ever anticipated. Travel with its opportunity to meet new and different people, exchange ideas, and being present in a new reality, has always provided endless possibilities and I miss it incredibly. Here’s to getting back out there soon.

WORKING FROM HOME IS OK It’s not an emphatic lesson, but it’s not an emphatic feeling either: working from home is fine not fantastic. I was super surprised to find out how much I missed the office, the change of scenery and alternate company. I have also discovered that a mix of both working from home combined with some days at the office provides a balance that works well.

BEING NICE HELPS In the words of the Dalai Lama: “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” When the chips are down and uncertainty reigns, a little kindness goes a long way. There is no doubt that humanity is vital in the hard-to-fathom-times we are experiencing; let us not forget this.

SMALL BUSINESSES REALLY DO MAKE NEIGHBOURHOODS Early March, it could have sounded twee to say that baristas hold communities together — but in many instances, they do. So do the takeaway shops, wine bars and the local veggie store. The whole verve of urban life depends on these small high-street businesses; without them life would be sterile and far too quiet.

Steve Jobs was right on the money when he said, "You can't connect the dots going forward; you can only connect them looking backward.” Perhaps in years to come when things have returned to a new ‘normal’, we will look back on 2020 and see that it was the piece of the puzzle we needed to complete a bigger better picture.

Wishing you a great month ahead.

Fran

Jude Co-editor

Fran Co-editor

TOUR DU MONDE

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Sculptural Design Gidon Bing Ceramics

WORD S — AIM ÉE R AL FI N I

Humans are makers. We make to solve practical and logistical problems and also to solve nothing at all, simply to celebrate and create beauty. It’s been said that what we make defines who we are and communicates who we want to be. While ceramic making can be traced back thousands of years to the humblest of materials, clay is being reinterpreted by artists and designers who are pushing its traditional boundaries and associations.

There’s a sensual allure to handmade ceramics. Some bear the marks of their makers – activated by the indents, touching and smoothing of human fabrication, or of the clay’s material working processes which fold, lift, shape, and extrude – while other items are so lustrous, they seem untouched by physical making.

responsible for the idiosyncratic brick sculptures around Auckland’s parks and shopping areas including Chase Lange on Karangahape Rd. Created from 1,300 handmade tiles, Lange commented that he designed the seat to “hold five large drag queens dancing and also provide casual seating for passers-by.”

Occupying a unique position between practical everyday objects and the rarefied world of fine art, handmade ceramics offer function, form, and beauty. Crown Lynn may hold a special place in the New Zealand psyche, but what do we know of contemporary ceramics and their makers?

Operating at the other end of the spectrum, Gidon Bing’s ceramics are elegant, minimal, and sleek. Alongside his modernist inspired kitchen objects and homewares, Bing has recently collaborated with Auckland-based design brand Exhibit A. Designing a handmade bottle to complement a new range of gin, Bing has created a high-gloss geometric black or white vessel that is a striking object in itself.

Once, nearly all of this country's ceramics were made here.

However, the 1980s saw an influx of cheap imports and suddenly mass-produced imported tableware took the place of a thriving local industry. While clay may be having a fashionable moment again, many of our most prominent potters lived through that era, continuing to make and laying the ground for a new generation of talent.

Contemporary New Zealand makers are carving out terrain that is neither simply decorative or fine art but an exciting space somewhere between. They’re making items that speak to the skill of traditional pottery techniques but also celebrate the innovation and joy of contemporary object making.

Sculptor and ceramic industry pioneer Peter Lange has created beautiful and transgressive items appreciated and coveted by collectors since the 1970s. He is also

Gidon Bing Fruit Bowls

Gidon Bing Vases and Large Platters

Facing uncertain futures, we are collectively beginning to look towards the small, the bespoke, the handmade, and meaningful. Where better to start than with some of New Zealand’s most intriguing contemporary ceramicists?

We asked Gidon Bing for his thoughts on the state of ceramics as it currently stands in Aotearoa.

Bing is primarily a sculptor running a multidisciplinary commercial design studio – ceramic design being part of the creative output. His work is held in Central Europe, America the Middle East and Australasia. He has also been featured in Selfridges of London, Milan’s Salone del Mobile, Lane Crawford, .M Contemporary and other highprofile venues and galleries.

Next Page

POTTERY FEATURE What is it about clay and ceramics that drew you to the medium and continues to keep you working with this material?

I was drawn to ceramics as a sculptural medium and developed a parallel interest in vessels – this was partly informed by an interest in ceramic artifacts I developed from field work and an academic background in archaeology. Clay work is tactile, immediate, utilitarian and infinitely variable which makes it a great medium for experimentation and play. Even though ceramics is only a small facet of what we do in the studio, it continues to stimulate and cross pollinate the other mediums we work with – sculpture, architecture, product, and so on.

I was drawn to ceramics as a sculptural medium and developed a parallel interest in vessels – this was partly informed by an interest in ceramic artifacts I developed from field work and an academic background in Archaeology.

Where do you find ideas and draw influences from?

Mostly from play and a passion for materials and material process but also from a studied exposure to antiquity and classical antiquity, ideas and sentiments of the European avant guard, and a reverence for modest or restrained works that are deeply connected to us through tradition or nature.

In recent years there has been a change in the perception of clay and ceramics, now more appreciated and consolidated within the tradition of art. American art critic Roberta Smith says that ceramic “has one of the richest histories of any medium on the planet” and that the divide between art and craft is “bogus”. Are these discussions important to you or to other makers, do you think?

These perceptions and the conversations around them ebb and flow in line with the fickle nature of fashion and the market. Ideally good works should strive to be invulnerable to the redundancies of contemporary fashion. I guess a similar logic applies to arbitrary or popular or transitory categorisations of what art or craft is. Works that we have an authentic kinship with, that are connected to ideological and creative traditions enrich our lives in meaningful ways regardless.

Gidon Bing Bird House Vase

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POTTERY FEATURE

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A Gem in New Lynn C ROWN LYN N C O L L ECTO R ’S MAR KET 1 NOVE M BE R , 1 0 AM - 2 P M . ARO U ND TH E KI L N NEXT TO TH E M U S EU M .

RO S E MARY D E AN E C UR ATO R | TE TO I UKU 8 2 7 7 3 4 9 C U R ATO R @TETO I U KU.O RG .N Z TH E M U S EU M IS AT 8 AM BR IC O P L ACE NEW LYNN ( O F F R ANKIN AVE) , AU C KLAN D

OCTOBER 2020

Te Toi Uku Crown Lynn & Clayworks Museum has had a makeover. The little museum is New Lynn’s best-kept secret and tells the story of the clay industry in the area. Over 200 objects are on display.

It’s well worth a visit.

“We are different from other museums that have Crown Lynn collections. We also have the tools and equipment that was used to make the products. A lot of Crown Lynn production was by hand, including attaching handles and hand decorating. We aim to tell the stories behind their creation,” says museum curator Rosemary Deane. The museum wants to engage with the local community. The focus is on the people and the processes that made the ceramics, from bricks and pipes through to the finest dinnerware produced by Crown Lynn.

Te Toi Uku Crown Lynn & Clayworks Museum has a permanent exhibition about the clay industries that operated in the area throughout the 20th century, and about Crown Lynn which operated nearby from 1948 until 1989.

Up until the 1980s, New Lynn was covered in brick and clay factories. The museum is located in the original site of an early 20th century brickworks next to the old kiln and is administered

by the Portage Ceramics Trust. Formed in 2005, the Trust purchased a large private collection of ceramics and pottery-making equipment from Richard Quinn. The latter was collecting from op shops and found shards, as well as complete pieces by digging into the ground behind the factory. Objects were added to the collection including some heavy clay equipment and tools from early west Auckland companies.

“There is a lot more for people to see here now, and to learn about what New Lynn was like 50 years ago," says Rosemary. "Since the renovation visitors stay for much longer, we might be small but there is plenty of information to share and objects to spark delight for the Crown Lynn collectors. There is something for everyone in our new displays.”

The exhibitions were made by possible by Foundation North and the Portage Licensing Trust, and the museum’s operational funding comes from the Whau Board of the Auckland Council.

EXHIBIT A Exhibit A is an Auckland-based design brand that focuses on collaborations with creators and makers. Their premiere project is a stunning London dry gin that was recently awarded a silver medal at the New Zealand spirit awards. Encased in a sculpture bottle design by local ceramicist Gidon Bing, it’s two works of art in one.

Verve had the chance to chat with Sara, from Exhibit A.

What was the gin making process like? Frankly, the best kind of research. Our gin-makers Chris Charteris and Simon Wilson are master craftsmen and perfectionists. They worked hard and took the time to create Exhibit A’s delicious blend, which was influenced by the Japanese gins we’re drawn to.

Why was it important to collaborate and create locally? Because the creative process works better for us if it’s in person. Exhibit A isn’t about getting the cheapest, quickest, easiest thing made up. We take a lot of time discussing, refining and questioning our offering. Besides, local is everything right now.

What inspired Gidon Bing’s designs?

His own ceramic designs combined with modernist influences, primarily from vintage cocktail shakers, which we obsess over.

What makes your gin unique, and what are the flavour profiles? Our gin is very fresh and pure, scented with citrus and with a subtle smoky finish that comes from the green tea we use. It’s a handful of botanicals only, the antithesis to the many gins out there with lots of flavour profiles going on.

How do you enjoy the gin? Any garnishes, tonic brands or cocktails you’d suggest? We love it with East Imperial Old World tonic or Quina Fina tonic on a hunk of ice with a slice of lemon. Or in a negroni, or an ice-cold martini...

Why was it important to have environmentally friendly refill bottles and labels? Exhibit A has worked hard with our designer Brogen Averill to try to come up with a sustainable but stylish packaging solution. We’re not fans of unnecessary plastic or synthetics so our corks are natural, our bottles can and should be kept forever and our natural rubber labels are biodegradable if you do want to throw them away. Even our refill tamper seal is biodegradeable.

Of course, it needs to look amazing too.

GIN

@exhibitabrand on Instagram words@exhibitabrand.com exhibitabrand.com

CITTADESIGN.COM

POTTERY FEATURE

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MILU SERVING BOWLS CITTÀ Entertain in style with Città’s Milu serving bowls.

The tableware collection is crafted by pottery artisans in a family-owned business in Portugal.

Each piece is thoughtfully moulded and glazed by hand—creating an organic finished look.

There’s a bowl suited for every dish with three convenient sizes (small, medium and large) in two timeless colourways (nori and off white). cittadesign.com

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MOROCCAN GREEN BASIN CORSO DI FIORI A statement piece large scaled basin with green glaze, from Corso's Morocco Home collection.

Sourced from Tamegroute – a small village in the south of Morocco, renowned for its earthenware – these exquisite ceramics have been hand crafted by family artisans working with manual pottery wheels and secret glaze recipes. corso.co.nz

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MOROCCAN GREEN VASE CORSO DI FIORI Vase with green glaze, from Corso's Morocco Home collection. Sourced from Tamegroute – a small village in the south of Morocco, renowned for its earthenware – these exquisite ceramics have been hand crafted by family artisans working with manual pottery wheels and secret glaze recipes. corso.co.nz

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PIHA HAND PAINTED FINCH COFFEE CUP CITTÀ Ease into the day with a hot beverage served in Città’s Piha Finch Coffee Cup. The cup has an organic form and features an abstract landscape, reminiscent of a New Zealand beach scene. cittadesign.com

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OCTOBER 2020

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CLAY WATER PITCHER, LAPIS FOURTH STREET Handmade Ceramic Water Pitcher in bold lapiz with the slightest speckle detail.

Clear glaze with subtle blue speckle in the interior. fourth-st.com

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LARGE BOTANICA SALT BUSH VASE ALLIUM Handmade in Australia, these Robert Gordon Botanica vases are available in a variety of different glazes and colours. $89.90. alliuminteriors.co.nz

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CLAY WATER PITCHER, LAPIS GIDON BING The large coffee percolator uses standard paper filters and can accommodate up to four standard cups. Available in Satin White. gidonbingceramics.com

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WEDGE SERIES MORGANMADE Holly Morgan, Wedge series, stoneware in ‘clay’. Follow morganmade on Instagram @ morganmade_ morganmade.co.nz

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Matters of the Mind

WO RD S —JAMI E C H RI STIAN D ESP L AC ES

Nearly 17 percent of adult Kiwis—around 650,000 souls—have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives, while one in six have been diagnosed with some form of mental disorder.

Within any given month, around one in 10 adults will suffer psychological distress, with Māori and Pacific Islanders most likely to be worst hit. While women are more likely to experience common mental health issues, men are around twice as likely to die by suicide.

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The Covid-19 pandemic has compounded Aotearoa’s mental health issues, with more than half of families reporting depression and one in five of those suffering seeking professional help. Most—around one in four—have sought guidance from a professional service or helpline, around one in six have turned to tech or online services, and one in seven to self-help books. Another source of solace for many is Newstalk ZB’s pioneering late-Sunday-night radio show, The Nutters Club, where listeners are encouraged to call to discuss all manner of taboo and mental health matters. It’s hosted by Hamish Coleman-Ross and resident psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald, and with regular special guests.

Verve sits down with Hamish to find out more…

DUTY OF CARE “Once upon a time, we were a lone voice, talking about mental health more than any other public broadcaster,” says Hamish over coffee overlooking Waitematā Harbour, “but just last Thursday, on World Suicide Prevention Day, you had David Seymour and Chlöe Swarbrick on Breakfast TV together— two people who could be barely be more from the opposite ends of the spectrum—talking about the suicide prevention plan put together by a bipartisan group in parliament.”

Do you think politicians are doing enough overall to address the nation’s mental health issues?

“I don’t think anybody in the government gets up and thinks ‘I’ll do the least I can,’ they are genuinely trying to find a way forward, but it’s fraught with peril. People become personally invested in it in a big way, and sometimes that means that whatever the outcome, it doesn’t feel like enough is being done, or that it’s happening fast enough.”

While it’s “easy to blame the Beehive”, Hamish believes more should be done to empower communities, as “communities know how to best solve community problems”.

“Instead of pointing the finger at others, point the finger in the mirror and ask yourself what you can do,” he continues. “It can be as simple as dropping a note through your neighbour’s letterbox. A lot of it is on us, on society. Workplaces, too, are a great example, with toxic environments being called out around the country. We need to give more consideration to the environments that we create. I’m not saying we should be walking around with fake smiles on our faces, but we should be honest with people, and generally just not be a dick.”

There was nothing else in the world quite like The Nutters Club when it debuted in 2009. A brainchild of Mike King, the radio programme set out to encourage everyone ‘to take ownership of our own mental health’. It spawned a book and TV show, and now draws more than 50,000 listeners (that’s the number one spot for the time-slot with 40 percent of all listeners nationwide), and more than half-a-million Facebook views each week. Hamish has been there almost since the start, initially taking care of the social media before working his way through the ranks to be handed the hosting hotseat full-time by King in 2017.

“Mike is an amazing guy, and he does so much to elevate people around him and give them opportunities,” reveals Hamish. “He was still doing his stand-up way back then and sometimes couldn’t make it back, so I’d fill in, and it gradually ramped up from there. When I first took over, someone—I won’t say who—said to me to that I should enjoy the rest of the year because I wouldn’t be back the next. I asked why that was and they said, ‘Because you’re not Mike King.’ It was kind of interesting that that got said, but I trusted in the process of what we were doing with the show and didn’t really think too much about it.”

Three years later, Hamish remains so committed to the show that even when out of Auckland, he’ll take a flight back for just one night to be in the studio.

“One of the key things to the success of the show is consistency,” he says. “Feedback we often hear is, ‘I know you guys are there on Sunday.’”

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

That’s quite a cross to bear?

“I don’t find it that hard. It’s more important to others than we are prepared to embrace in a really conscious way—maybe then it could feel like a cross. I just accept that I must be in Auckland on a Sunday night, and as long as I am required to do that, I am happy to.”

Though the show might appear a simple one, as with the subject matters it covers, beneath the surface “there is much complexity” that requires the entire team to navigate.

“Sometimes I’ll say to Boris [Sokratov, producer] that we need to get that person’s number so that we can refer them to somebody or speak to Kyle more. We are serious about our duty of care. It’s not a voyeuristic show, we ensure support and procedures are in place, especially when dealing with topics as serious as suicide.”

The audience, too, are essential, often calling in with contacts, advice, or knowledge, which “all comes back to community again”. Hamish hammers home the point that there is much support available in Aotearoa, but laments “a lot of people just don’t know where to find it”.

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LIFE LESSONS Hamish studied politics in his hometown of Dunedin, where he dreamt of a career in the performing arts.

“I did one semester and realised I didn’t really enjoy hanging out with actors who all seemed to be in constant competition for the most attention in the room,” he says. “So, I generated towards television and radio. I had done a radio show while at high school, then worked at the local TV station while doing my degree and essentially did an apprenticeship where I picked up most of my media skills. It was a wonderful experience.”

He flirted with comedy for a while, creating a short satirical film about Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Liden hiding in plain sight at Otago University, the joke being that no-one paid them any attention as there were international students. Hamish played the role of a “serious journalist”, but it was a later role as a real serious journalist covering a manufactured campus rape story that led to him getting the bug for news and current affairs.

“My producer asked to speak to me about the interview and I thought he was going to tell me that I’d messed it up, but he said, ‘That was really powerful.’”

Later in his career, Hamish would report on momentous New Zealand modern history in real time as a video journalist for Fairfax during the Pike River tragedy and the immediate aftermath of the Christchurch quakes.

He’s also worked as a producer for NBR, TVNZ and TV3.

“For a long time, that period of my life was a dark secret that I didn’t talk about, I was encouraged not to tell people. Suicide was considered this terrible thing, like a disease, and you didn’t want people to know that you had been affected by it. But upon reflection, my own horrific experiences helped me to be able to be a good interviewer, to be able to be emotionally responsive to somebody who is telling me things that are deeply personal to them.”

“I have very few formal qualifications for any of my work in life and I don't really say that with any great deal of pride. It’s just the way it happened. I’ve always generated towards things that I feel passionate about and often my work has had some kind of social undercurrent. I generally, genuinely like to see the best in everybody.”

Such empathy is essential as the host of a show where guests and listeners bare their souls and darkest moments and fears. I ask if he’s aware of the wider audience during those one-on-ones.

“I always concentrate on the moment. When I'm talking to the person, like we're talking now, my attention is fully with them. I obviously look for the moments where we can bring Kyle in to be give us clinical definitions around what it is that we're talking about, and to give legitimacy to the feelings. We do that for a very good reason—it's so that people understand that whatever it is they're thinking or feeling actually has a background, has a study. That in of itself makes people feel a whole lot better.”

Natural compassion aside, Hamish can also draw on terrible personal tragedy having witnessed his father’s death through suicide, when he was just four years old.

“For a long time, that period of my life was a dark secret that I didn’t talk about,” he recalls. “I was encouraged not to tell people. Suicide was considered this terrible thing, like a disease, and you didn’t want people to know that you had been affected by it. But upon reflection, my own horrific experiences helped me to be able to be a good interviewer, to be able to be emotionally responsive to somebody who is telling me things that are deeply personal to them.”

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OCTOBER 2020

21 Do you believe we are generally more open to discussing emotional trauma now?

“As a society, we are in a very different place to where we were even 10 years ago, and that’s wonderful.

We must encourage as many people as possible to develop the language of talking about mental health in order to communicate with each other about how it’s affecting us and how we can treat it.”

SAFE SPACES The numerous handwritten, text and Facebook messages add to what is clearly an already skyhigh level of job satisfaction for Hamish, who’s also especially tickled about once being recognised in a supermarket: “Not bad for radio, they’d clearly done their research!”

He is “deeply humbled” by his role and admits to never having imagined being on air for 11 years, let alone pulling in the numbers that they do.

“People deserve help and guidance when they’re distressed or depressed,” he says. “And if a late-night radio show has become the best, or most helpful, option for some, then that’s great, but there still needs to be more. Many people just want to be validated, to know they’re good enough and that they’re effort was appreciated, even if they didn’t win the race.”

Though he happily makes those dashes back to Auckland on a Sunday evening, or gladly rises from a late afternoon slumber to farewell his partner and kids, Hamish does admit that the emotionally draining nature of the show means he needs to be “handled with kid gloves the following day”.

A lifelong solo sailor, being out on the waves is among his most preferred methods of blowing the cobwebs away.

“I really enjoy being out on the water, it’s really just a good way to clear the mind and just commune with nature,” he says. “There are a lot of misconceptions about yachties, but here’s something not a lot people know—we’re all, by the very definition, environmentalists at heart.”

If you, or someone you know, has mental health issues, the Ministry of Health (health.govt.nz) has a comprehensive list of services that can help. If you need to speak to someone immediately, call Lifeline for free on 0800 543 354.

THE NUTTERS CLUB AIRS ON NEWSTALK ZB EVERY SUNDAY AT 11PM.

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P h oto g raphy : J us si Hellsten

OCTOBER 2020

Turning Up The Heat On Mental Health

While the physical benefits of sauna are well-known, the evidence for its role in improving mental health is really heating up – something the Finns have known for years.

Sauna plays such an integral role in Finnish society it was once used as a place to give birth and also to lay out the dead. Nowadays it’s a common place for families and friends to come together to relax and at times it even plays a role in Finnish business culture.

as it forces you to keep them short. But even if you don’t decide anything there, sauna plays a role in bringing people together. Enjoying a relaxing moment with your colleagues and conversing with them in the warmth can work wonders towards building stronger relationships."

While some Finnish workplaces have their own sauna, companies can also rent a space outside of the office to enjoy some steam and snacks, allowing employees the opportunity to leave the formalities and stressors of their jobs behind.

Some believe that part of this could be due to the fact that being naked strips away pretension and hierarchy and that sitting side-by-side in the dark can be less confronting than speaking to someone who is sitting directly opposite you.

At one of Finland’s most successful tech companies, Eino Joas leads a team of game developers, and while at times the pressure can be intense, he finds taking time out to sauna together can bring benefits for both body and mind.

"While it’s always a place of relaxation, sauna is also a place where many conversations are had," explains Eino. "With topics ranging from the very lighthearted to those that are very deep, personal and difficult, discussions that are hard to have elsewhere sometimes feel comfortable to bring up there. I’ve probably had more heart-to-heart conversations in the sauna than anywhere else."

"For me sauna is a really important place to unwind and de-stress," he says. "While the warmth relaxes your muscles and soothes tension, the still and tranquil atmosphere helps quiet the mind. Sauna is a safe place, a small detached nook where you can leave the tensions of everyday life behind."

While relaxation is important, sauna is also a place traditionally touted as facilitating important discussions, even during Finland’s political history.

"There are countless stories about sauna playing a role in decision-making in Finnish society," says Eino. "One for example quips that it’s a great place for negotiations,

As well as fostering conversation, many Finns also enjoy sauna for the opportunity it brings to embrace a comfortable silence, be it in a group or on their own, and to calm a busy mind.

"Being alone in the sauna changes the experience somewhat," says Eino, "and sauna can become a place of contemplation and reflection. Other times, it’s a place to regain your mental space and think about nothing at all, just listening to the sizzle of water on the stones and feeling the steam on your skin."

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Keep Calm and Communicate Handling conflict or interpersonal drama in a company setting is something you most likely associate with substantial bills, stress and potential legal action, but Auckland-based coaching practice, In the Room, is here to not only stop things from getting that far, but use such issues as a springboard toward improved creativity, employee engagement and organisational performance.

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“Research has shown that interpersonal conflict in business is a major and costly concern affecting leaders today,” says founder, Louisa Dellabarca, who hails from Cambridge in the UK. “But despite often having an intuitive sense that the human system is under strain, it can be difficult for leaders to know how to address these problems. There can be a tendency to turn the other way and hope for the best which can lead to crisis down track. Our approach is to tackle these challenges head on, with compassion and curiosity. Put simply, I facilitate courageous conversations and coach businesses around the power of clear and open communication.”

It’s her role to engage parties in powerful conversations that moves them forward and into a shared sense of purpose. It can be confronting, but the rewards are high. The costs of not addressing the problems are also potentially significant.

Louisa’s passion and fascination for high-performance teamwork stems from large-scale event management in London followed by the high-pressure world of Formula One. For the past six years she’s worked as a business coach in Auckland, establishing In the Room at the end of 2019.

“I haven't found myself specialising in one particular industry yet.

Fundamentally we’re dealing with the psychology of groups so there is no domain in which this kind of work is not relevant. The only pre-requisite is that everyone engaging in the process must be willing to accept a level of discomfort in order to stand up for business objectives and the wellbeing of its employees, which means they must understand the correlation between the two.”

ALL EARS Louisa emphasises bravery and commitment are needed for all parties to come together “to discover what’s really going on” in order to treat the symptoms of conflict and “shift from disconnection to trust”.

“My role is to support leaders, partners and teams in conversations they need to have but are avoiding,” she says.

“Problems can arise when people feel they’re not being heard or are being overridden by more dominant personalities. It affects everything from mental health to productivity and ultimately the corporate bottom line.”

“I'm always a neutral party. When you're resolving conflict or helping people through crises it's essential that you have that impartiality which is one of the reasons this type of work lends itself to an outside agency.”

Are there industries specialise in?

that

you

“In the Room is all about helping leaders foster and maintain healthy relationships across the organisation, but that is undeniably challenging where the pressure of constant uncertainty and change is moving the goalposts on a daily basis. In today’s environment all organisations need to become masters of adaptation, learning and growth to stay afloat, and the tools Louisa employs are essential in that regard.”

My role is to support leaders, partners and teams in conversations they need to have but are avoiding. Problems can arise when people feel they’re not being heard or are being overridden by more dominant personalities.

It affects everything from mental health to productivity and ultimately the corporate bottom line.

OCTOBER 2020 “The modern leadership challenge is extremely stressful,” continues Louisa, “particularly within the old-school institutional environments where there is huge pressure to deliver on profit whilst navigating modern metrics.

“Young people are increasingly more insistent that their work be purpose-driven. They're insisting on an organisation that looks after their wellbeing and reflects their values. The old business model of giving directives from the top is not going to stand going into the future. Start-ups tend to be more agile and able to respond faster to situations. But if you are in a leadership role in an organisation that has relied on certain structures for eons, it can be extremely hard to respond quickly whilst making sure the entire organisation is engaged and looked after. We need new models for helping leaders handle acute organisational distress and we are just one of a new wave of boutique services stepping up to offer such support in these difficult times.”

Would it be fair to compare what you do to a kind of group therapy?

“Yes, a little. I first meet with the founder or the leader to explore the issue from their perspective. Then, I meet with everybody who needs to be part of the discussion. We talk through individual perspectives, the challenges, what’s a stake and so on, and if there's a particular situation in which people don't feel free to talk. You know, address the elephant in the room.”

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It sounds like it could be quite an emotional experience for some?

of my role is to create an environment where it's safe for emotion to emerge without it overwhelming; to help everyone realise that it's completely normal, and in fact necessary. I see this as a big problem in all walks of life, not just business, repressing feelings and emotions because we think we’re think we’ll be punished in some way if we admit what we really feel. But emotions are energy. If they don’t have a natural outlet there will always be a greater cost along the line. A leader that allows for people to be real in this way without them fearing some personal cost is going a long way towards creating a successful organisation in my view.”

“It can be. Tears or palpable frustration are common, but I am able to manage those situations and it is often in those moments of vulnerability that the energy in the room shifts. A big part

THE SCIENCE OF SPEAKING So many issues in the office (and the home), stem from our inability to walk in someone else’s shoes and relate to their perspective.

(Louisa points to an actual elephant in her room! Well, an impressive sculpture of one.)

“Generally, when I've spoken to everybody, I will have an intuitive sense of what needs to be aired. You must invite a conversation where everyone will be fully heard. So yes, you could say it’s like group therapy except the focus is much more on the present and future rather than digging into past pain.”

“Each of us view a situation through a filter of our own experience, values, cultural agreements, and upbringings, much of which is unconscious. In every case of conflict or crisis you’ve got multiple versions of the same event. The idea of one ‘single truth’ needs to be gently teased away from the argument. Acceptance of different perspectives is one part of the process, the other is finding what unites, the humanity that binds in each situation.”

"The key to this is honesty, and, perhaps more dauntingly, vulnerability.

That’s where the magic lies." Quite literally, with Louisa naming studies that have shown changes to the electromagnetic field of the heart which impact brain function positively when people “let go of control” and allow their feelings to have a voice.

>>

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

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“It’s like a quantum shift,” she continues. “All of a sudden, people open up to creativity, imagination and innovation. New ideas begin to flow; genius can happen. The group may need to make one change, one tiny change that they all agree upon and then everyone realises, ‘Oh my gosh, we needed to do this.’ Suddenly, you've got the next step, and that all important trust within the group. Done just once, it can create an important shift, done iteratively it will be transformational.”

Louisa’s work centres around a progressive branch of social science known as ‘energy psychology’.

“We’re in the constant grip of fear-based responses these days with the stresses and pressures of modern life, whether it be the barrage of social media, constant sensationalised news, and now the overexaggerated fear of death by flu and the ever-present reminder of this danger via the presence of facemasks.

These pressures constantly trigger our sympathetic nervous system, ironically collapsing our immune and growth mechanisms—the ones we need for creativity, health and adaptation—and instead charge our muscles with stress hormones needed for fight or flight. We don’t think straight, and we become overwhelmed and make poor decisions.”

Heart coherence is a state of physical being achieved through simple breathing mindfulness practices that can counter these modern stresses, creating internal balance and healthy brain function.

“Through very simple exercises your body can achieve a completely

relaxed state, your mind opens, and you have imagination and clear thinking at your disposal,” says Louisa. “You have access to creativity.

You have access to what some people say is a super-consciousness, others have described it as ‘a state of flow’.

We can achieve it individually, or we can achieve it in groups. I apply these techniques during a facilitation, albeit very subtly.”

Louisa rues society’s conditioning to separate science from spirituality, insisting that science can now easily explain miracles including everything from the spontaneous remission of incurable disease to extra sensory perception such a clairvoyance and telepathy, and it’s this mindset that she wishes to change.

“I care deeply about our ability to organise ourselves and reach our potential be that in the business context or otherwise. If we can learn new skills based on the cutting edge science that is proving we are powerful beyond our imagination when we deploy the magic of the heart, then not only will our organisations and the people they employ be better off, but our societies will be stronger and we will be more able to tackle the global challenges facing all of us.

“At its very core, my business is about the power of heart-led conversations to bring people together to become far greater than the sum of their parts, to solve big, wicked problems and to birth new creations out of chaos. I believe this model is needed right now like never before- and across all domains of life, not just business.”

Contact +64 (0) 21 184 7200 louisa@intheroom.co.nz www.intheroom.co.nz

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Rest & Recharge (and maybe lose a kg or two)

A visit to Resolution Retreats — Australasia’s largest women’s only wellness retreat.

After several months of major change and — as we all have — enduring Covid-19, I’m looking forward to a stay at Resolution Retreats, a five-star, 35-hectare resort 10 minutes south of Cambridge where women undergo three- to 21-day weight loss, health and wellness programmes.

The Experience

My timetable arrives a few days prior and includes fitness and cooking classes, yoga, meditation, facial and massage treatments, health and happiness workshops, meal times and ‘bliss’ time.

It’s an easy drive to the retreat from Auckland and I arrive at the same time as Jane from Pauanui.

We meet Emma, a nutritionist, and Carly, a yoga teacher/ health coach - our retreat facilitators.

Carly shows us to our chalets and I relax in the knowledge I’ve temporarily left my 'duties' behind.

The chalet has a lounge, kitchenette and a large bedroom with desk, TV and king-sized bed. The piece de resistance for me is the spa bath — a soak here is my idea of heaven.

WORD S J EN NA M O O RE

It’s time to meet the others. The 16 of us are all ages and sizes and as Carly takes us on a tour we’re looking forward to healthy living and recharging.

“Progress not perfection.”

No Rules

Treatment Time

There are no rules on retreat but ‘liver loaders’ like coffee and wine are off the menu. I’m delighted unprocessed ‘real food’ is on offer and our first snack is a divine chia pudding served in a wine glass and garnished with fresh flowers. From here on we look forward to mealtimes not because we don’t have enough — three meals and two snacks is plenty — but somehow we’re always ready for more.

The first workshop with Emma focuses on the Wheel of Wellness (nutrition, movement, sleep, happiness) followed by a fitness session before healthy pizzas are served for lunch.

Next on my personal agenda is a facial. My therapist is superb and after a long break between facials, I’ve decided they should be mandatory! I float through the rest of the afternoon with options of ‘bliss’ time, two choices of yoga/meditation classes and a light pad thai dinner. During ‘bliss’, a few of us gravitated to the heated plunge pool.

I enjoy chatting to the others here then leave for a sauna before dinner.

The next morning begins with a fitness class and I’m frustrated that my injured knee negates it but Carly puts on yoga nidra meditation for Gaye – another injured soul – and I. We then breakfast on healthy eggs benedict before a mental health workshop with Carly and cooking class with Emma demonstrating bliss balls.

My second treatment is a 60-minute body massage and my masseuse has magic hands. Seriously. In terms of getting through life, these should be (at least) a monthly must-do! I compliment it with yoga nidra again before a dinner of almond and olive crumbed tempeh and watched That Sugar Film with some of the others.

Till We Meet Again

1002 Tairau Road Lake Karapiro, Cambridge 0800 4 RETREATS resolutionretreats.co.nz

There’s a lot to like about a stay at Resolution Retreats and it’s not difficult to see how longer stays would facilitate weight loss and encourage new healthy habits. The mix of activities and free time is perfect. A retreat should de-stress but a full-on timetable would make that impossible. At Resolution bliss time is plentiful and there’s no pressure to ‘do’. During ‘bliss’ we hung out in the sauna, the pool or read in the lounge in groups or on our own and some of the ladies left the retreat to explore nearby walks or drive into Cambridge or Tirau for shopping.

It’s sad to say goodbye to this lovely group of women. It’s been levelling and liberating donning an unembellished ‘uniform’ of activewear, swimsuits and bathrobes. My tummy feels flatter but most of all it’s been a time to stop, gather my thoughts and get reacquainted with some healthy habits that went awry during lockdown.

The Founder Resolution Retreats was founded by former Chartered Accountant Joelene Ranby who eventually left the corporate world to pursue helping others. “I was very proud of my career but I wanted to share what I had learned during my own health journey to help other women".

Joelene has since studied anatomy, physiology and nutrition and is a trained fitness instructor, but she’s not shy in saying she was once very unhealthy. “I’ve come a long way. I was stressed out, I couldn’t cook, I used to have cereal with condensed milk on top for dinner! Since then, I‘ve developed healthier habits and have learned to take better care of myself. I’m definitely not perfect and I think that’s something our guests can relate to!” she laughs. “And that’s what we try to teach women. It’s about progress not perfection. Treat health as a doing word and do some health every day” "About half our guests come with weight loss as one of their health goals. The other half for many other different reasons – a break from their kids, to be more inspired in the kitchen, while others feel like they’ve lost themselves and need a reset. One guest had a lightbulb moment when she discovered she buried herself in constant work because she felt that was the only thing she was good at. Many of our guests are so refreshed by our take on wellness that they leave with much more than they came for.”

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Good Cubes: Better Built You don’t need to be aware of Ashley Berrysmith’s entrepreneurial and eco credentials (more on those later) to realise he’s serious about building a better environment one block at a time. Within seconds of being welcomed into his office, amiable Ashley proudly guide’s our gaze to the collection of flowers and beehives (from Bees Up Top, featured in Verve August) that add a lovely splash of colour to the carpark outside.

“One of our customers got a rescue beehive and we planted that whole garden out there to replace the concrete,” he beams.

“We got the award winning designer, Xanthe White, in to make sure it flowers all year round and Jess [Baker, Bees Up Top boss] says it’s one of the healthiest hives she has. It all fits in nicely with the philosophy of what we’re trying to achieve here.”

Verve is visiting Ashley to find out more about the incredible Good Cube, a range of vegan-friendly conditioning-shampoo blocks that feel, look and smell sumptuous enough to eat—and little wonder as they’re crafted with some of Aotearoa’s finest botanicals such as the kawakawa and harakeke plant, mixed with high-grade orange, lemon and coconut oils. And, vitally, there is not an ounce of soap or synthetic fragrance in sight.

“Plants have been so underutilised,” says Ashley. “We’re constantly learning more about their magic. There has to be efficacy in what I do, there’s no point in just using plants because it’s trendy. Good Cubes are based on science—I have a degree in horticulture—and it’s something that I have been mulling over for decades.”

ROOTS Ashley was raised in “alternative” Titirangi, an idyllic childhood “surrounded by native bush and a menagerie, with maybe one visitor a year as it was the back of beyond!” His mum was the secretary of the local herb society, and so the family “grew up around health and wellbeing”.

“I also grew up as a bushman and the whole concept of ‘plant power’ has always driven me.”

Ashley cites the head teacher at his intermediate school as significant influence on his plant-based worldview, too.

“He was a tall, strapping, energetic guy, and he became a real mentor to me,” says Ashley. “He was the president of the vegetarian society and I went along when I was only around 11 and was the youngest there by probably 30 or 40 years! I had always been a real meat eater, raiding the fridge at midnight for a slice of corned beef, but their passion really got to me, and I just went, excuse the pun, cold turkey, from that to zero.”

Ashley’s passion for plant power fuelled all future life choices, long before it was fashionable to embark on such ethical paths.

Beginning in the 1980s, he founded a series of eco-businesses such as NZ Freshcuts (now Snapfresh) that launched iconic— and award-winning—Kiwi salad brands like Sproutman and Krispkut (now Taylor Farms). Ashley also established the Berrysmith Foundation (now Just So Karaka Eco Park project) to “create a legacy of health and wellbeing for our people and the planet” by way of restoring waterways, wetlands and native bush, and encouraging sustainable food production projects. In 2008 he won the Ernst & Young NZ Entrepreneur of The Year award and competed for the world title in Monte Carlo. Six years later, Ashley’s foundation launched Meat-Free Monday in New Zealand.

OCTOBER 2020 Next Page

CUBES Ashley’s instincts to give-back—and clean-up—continue with Good Cube.

“For every sale we donate 33 cents to Sustainable Coastlines,” he says. “We went to them and asked what it costs to remove a litre of plastic from a beach.”

On top of that, each conditioning-shampoo bar is good for at least 100 washes, meaning it saves a staggering eight standard bottles from your bathroom—and it can even treble-up as a body wash, too (kiss good-bye to bathroom clutter!) While many soaps and shampoos have a pH of between eight and 12, the Good Cubes come in at under 6.5, more in keeping with the natural balance of our hair and skin.

“We need to make it easier for people to make everyday choices that support a post-plastics world. The cube not only lasts longer, but every time it’s used, it takes care of our skin, our hair and our planet. We can all do our bit to make better choices, and collectively, that adds up to a lot.”

“The ingredients and extracts are highly concentrated, very expensive, and all with their own individual properties,” says Ashley. “Even the combined conditioner is concentrated, and really does work, not like the old days of the two-in-one Pantene!”

The cubes don’t just outperform the products in the plastic bottles, but even their fellow shampoo bars as well. While others use a ‘melt and pour’ manufacturing method that traps air and leaves them prone to melting on the bathroom shelves, the Good Cube is forged under intense pressure, squeezing the plants and essential oils and all their nutrients into a dense, compacted, air-free block that’s far harder to break down.

Ashley calls it “Squished Plant Power”, in fact, you can expect Good Cubes to last two to three times longer than other bars on the market.

Ashley says it’s time to make stand and “raise the bar and ditch the plastic”.

“We need to make it easier for people to make everyday choices that support a post-plastics world,” he adds. “The cube not only lasts longer, but every time it’s used, it takes care of our skin, our hair and our planet. We can all do our bit to make better choices, and collectively, that adds up to a lot.”

Be in to win the range of Good Cubes. Simply visit our competitions on page 144 for more info.

WHY YOU SHOULD CONVERT TO THE CUBE • Clean up your bathroom and the oceans—each cube is good for four bottles of shampoo and four bottles of conditioner, while each purchase removes a further litre of plastic from our beaches and oceans.

• Save bathroom space and money, with each Good Cube good for over 100 washes.

• Support a local business as well as Kiwi botanists.

• All packaging is compostable.

• A more natural pH means healthier hair and skin— remember it’s not just shampoo and conditioner, it can be used as a bodywash as well.

CUBE FLAVOURS • Harakeke & Shea Butter: Good for dry and damaged hair thanks to its bergamot, geranium and chia oil content that conditions and nourishes.

• Kawakawa & Coconut Oil: This incredible smelling cube also sports spicy mandarin, orange and chia oil, ideal for maintaining normal hair.

• Horopito & White Willow Bark: This poetically named cube is the ideal potion for oily hair, backed by fragrant lemon myrtle.

• Kumarahou & Spirulina: This one’s known as ‘the multitasker’, enriched with vetiver and cedarwood, it’s so smooth it can even be used as a shaving bar, as well as body wash, shampoo and conditioner.

• Ashley really has thought of everything, also available is a storage bag so you can hang the cube in the shower, and an exfoliator and bar saver pouch ready to receive the last “pesky pieces”. Both are crafted from knitted hemp.

goodcube.com

Elstree Pharmacy Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all of your family’s health needs and excellent advice. Ample free parking. Stockists of Innoxa Skincare, Styli Style, Cosmetics and Stella and Gemma Jewellery.

145 WEST TAMAKI RD, GLEN INNES 09 528 3636 ELSTREEPHARMACY@XTRA.CO.NZ

Obsessing over the Truth

One Truth 818 Serum

I’M GOBSMACKED! If you’re a regular reader you’ll know I’m a former registered nurse and my focus is on the health of your skin as well as what’s happening on the inside of your body to impact your visible skin layers. The therapists who work with me, Hannah Brockbank, Beverley Danyali and Oonagh Wolfkamp also look beyond the surface of your skin to what may be going on within the body. You see, your skin’s health, how it looks, and how it ages, is very much tied up with the general health of your body. This is one reason I am such a fan of One Truth 818 Serum.

THE SCIENCE OF AGEING I’m going to get a bit science-y here for a moment, but please bear with me. Chromosomes, cells which determine our gender, colouring and how we age, make up a large part of our biology. They are thread-like structures made up of protein and DNA and look a bit like an elongated horizontal ‘X’ with tips like shoelace caps on the end. These tips are called telomeres. Most of us have 46 chromosomes, and right from the point of conception the telomeres begin to shorten each time they replicate in the normal process of cell division.

This shortening, which eventually leads to an inability to replicate, is one of the causes of ageing.

DR BILL ANDREWS Enter world renowned telomere biologist Dr Bill Andrews. He’s devoted to turning – what he terms – 'the disease of ageing' on its head. That said, he’s not really interested in skin, his passion is more about

health. He’s the founder of Sierra Sciences in Nevada (sierrasci.com) and his tagline is ‘cure ageing, or die trying’. In the 1990s Dr Bill Andrews discovered the human telomerase gene.

TAM-818.

818 ONE TRUTH SERUM It was when my colleague, Auckland-based Rachel D’Aguiar who is just as passionate about healthy skin as I am, came together with Dr Andrews that 818 One Truth Serum was born. TAM-818 the telomerase that Dr Andrews discovered, has the ability to relengthen telomeres. Taking that monumental discovery Rachel developed 818 One Truth Serum. It has a light, velvety texture and releases the TAM-818 substance deep below the skin’s surface. It also hydrates and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and reduces sensitivity. I have been absolutely blown away by the results I’ve seen.

THE PROMISE With 30 days of daily use, 818 One Truth is clinically proven to decrease wrinkles by 14%, improve skin firmness by 20%, reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles by 11% and 15% respectively, and boost elasticity by 8%. Plus, it goes without saying for me to stock it, 818 One Truth Serum is not tested on animals and contains no parabens, preservatives or artificial fragrances. It is non-sensitising, non-toxic and dermatologically tested. It’s got our unconditional seal of approval!

LOUISEGRAY.CO.NZ • 09 528 9010 • SHOP 2/224 KEPA RD, MISSION BAY

KOIKKI Skincare I n t ro d u c i n g t he n e w A u s t ra l i a n Kiwi n a t u ra l be aut y c o m p a n y m a kin g t he m o st o f c u t ting e d ge J a p a n es e t e c h n o l o g y.

KO I K K I . C O M

“I am proud to successfully combine the latest Japanese technology with Australian and New Zealand natural ingredients. I will continue to pursue the highest quality for my products and strive to continue kaizen endlessly.” – Founder, Takaragi Keiko

dry and sensitive skin. It is non-sticky, nonshiny and fast-absorbing.

Takaragi Keiko moved to New Zealand with her parents when she was seven years old. Due to New Zealand’s dry climate and strong ultraviolet rays, Keiko and her family have been suffering from sensitive skin problems for a long time.

•

After trying numerous skin products that didn’t deliver, Keiko decided to innovate a new skincare product exclusively for dry and sensitive skin – made from 100% fresh, natural and precious skincare ingredients.

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The KOIKKI Intensive Repair Ampoule is an intensive facial treatment that is suitable for most skin conditions, especially ultra-

Made in New Zealand, most of the ingredients originate from Australia and New Zealand.

•

Bifida ferment filtrate fosters healthy cell renewal and triggers collagen production to help protect you from wrinkles and fine lines. Hyaluronic acid keeps the skin super-hydrated.

Rosa rugosa strengthens and repairs skin barriers.

Nicotinamide and astaxanthin can dramatically brighten and correct aging, sun-damaged skin.

The excellent sealing contributes to 98% ultra-high concentration of active essence.

No chemical preservatives, no crosscontaminations – because you deserve the freshest and most nutritious skincare.

Avène

A Breakthrough in Dermatology Avène Thermal Spring Water is the key ingredient for all Avène products. The unique properties in the water assist in its ability to cleanse, soothe and calm mild to highly sensitive skin. We spoke to the experts at Avène about the brand's rich history and the benefits of the Avène Thermal Spring Water.

The Avène brand has a beautiful story, could you share it with our readers?

The Avène Thermal Spring was discovered in the depths of the earth in the heart of southern France more than two-anda-half centuries ago. It all started in 1736 when the Marquis of Rocozel’s horse was suffering from stubborn pruritus. To avoid any risk for the other horses, the Marquis decided to release the animal. After a while, the horse eventually came back, and was curiously healed! Curious of these unexpected findings, they discovered that the horse had found a stream where he would often swim.

The Marquis of Rocozel was so amazed that he studied the spring water further and in 1743 he built the first thermal spring facility in Avène, where patients suffering from atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema and even burns came to get treatment. Gradually the awareness and interest around the healing properties of the thermal spring water grew. In 1975 Pierre Fabre Laboratories acquired the Avène Hydrotherapy Centre, and this is where a full line of Avène skincare products were created using the Avène Thermal Spring Water as the key ingredient.

The benefits of the water for sensitive skin were instantly recognised and today, the Avène Hydrotherapy Centre attracts 2,600 patients per year who benefit from excellent products available in France and in close to 120 countries.

What are the unique properties of Avène Thermal Spring Water?

Avène Thermal Spring Water is at the heart of all our products, containing trace elements and a neutral pH 7.5. Following a journey of over 40 years, the water is drawn directly from the spring and packaged in a sterile environment, without added ingredients. Its naturally low mineral content and the unique mineral combination help to renew the skin and naturally help soothe.

EAU-THERMALE-AVENE.CO.NZ

What everyday needs can the Avène Water be used for?

• Toning skin after makeup removal • Calming redness after exercise • Soothing shaving rash • Soothing nappy rash • Helping to soothe inflamed skin post-surgery • Helping relieve the effects of sunburn

What do you recommend for people with very sensitive skin?

The Avène Thermal Spring Water forms the basis of the Avène skincare range designed specifically for all levels of skin sensitivity, from mildly sensitive to atopic and allergic skin such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, itching and redness.

The Eau Thermale Avène products are dermo-cosmetics, meaning they have both a dermatological action and a cosmetic appeal.

Avène has a wide range of products covering: anti-ageing; oily, acne-prone skin; skin repair; redness; hydration; itchy, eczemaprone skin, and more. You can discover the extensive range in pharmacies and view articles along with recommended care routines for all skin types on their website.

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Sunsmart

Whether you’re on holiday or just out and about, stay safe in the sun with these high quality sunscreens.

LOVELY BY SKIN INSTITUTE TINTED SUN PROTECTION - SPF30 SUNSCREEN

AVÈNE BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN SPF50+ UVA/UVB

Lovely by skin institute product is designed in New Zealand by one of the expert Skin Institute Dermatologists.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen which protects against both UVA & UVB, preventing skin cancers, sun damage and premature ageing. Containing 18.8% zinc oxide, this tinted sunscreen is light and easily matches any skin tone. 60ml, $59. Available at Lovely by skin institute. lovelybyskin.co.nz

Avène’s NEW Broad Spectrum Sunscreen provides very high sun protection for the face, suitable for all types of sensitive skin. Photostable, light and mattifying texture leaving no white marks. Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ UVB/ UVA protection. Rich in Avène Thermal Spring Water. eau-thermale-avene.co.nz

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Verve's Beauty Picks

ORGANIC RIOT SMOG-BLOCK ANTI POLLUTION CREAM Pollution destroys your skin’s natural barrier causing unwanted pigmentation, dull and tired skin. Smog-Block by Organic Riot helps strengthen your skin barrier and fight off pollution-induced pigmentation so that it can retain its natural glow.

Organic Riot is proudly made in New Zealand and is PETA® approved cruelty-free and vegan, Biocert Organic certified and also clinically tested to be hypo-allergenic! nz.theorganicriot.com

AVÈNE THERMAL SPRING WATER Avène Thermal Spring Water is the key ingredient for all Avène products. The unique properties in the water assist in its ability to cleanse, soothe and calm mild to highly sensitive skin. You will be provided with long-lasted protection and feel wrapped in soothing softness. eau-thermale-avene.co.nz

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Shine From Within This Summer With Superboost

We are living in the age of the glow up!

Hundreds and thousands of highlighters and light-reflecting products, available in liquid, cream and powder form, have flooded into the skincare market. All designed to enhance the complexion and give skin a brighter, dewier glow.

There are a couple of problems with these products. In the untrained hand they can leave you looking like a disco ball. Or as the name indicates they will highlight every imperfection such as dry patches, uneven pore size and the dreaded wrinkles!

Having just come out of the winter months it’s common to find your skin appearing dull and feeling dry, tight and flaky. This is due to the lower humidity levels. The water in your skin also evaporates more quickly when the air outside is cold and dry.

Now try adding wearing a mask to all that!

Sadly, losing our ability to produce natural moisturising factors (NMFs), including hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in our bodies, is just another effect of ageing.

Contact Clinic 42 on 09 638 4242 if you would like to book Super Boost ($650 – 2ml) or book online at clinic42.co.nz

You could bathe yourself in moisturisers and drink water until you're not nervous to leave the house. Or you could take a much simpler route to achieving that youthful and elusive lit-fromwithin-ness. Simply have the moisture injected directly into your skin.

Diamonds are great but hyaluronic acid is definitely the modern-day version of a girl’s best

friend. A slightly bloated best friend who can hold up to one thousand times its own weight in water. This is what makes it ideal for use in dermal fillers where a firm consistency product is used to restore volume loss.

Superboost however uses a much thinner consistency hyaluronic acid designed to attract and retain moisture rather than creating volume. This helps to replenish and maintain optimal hydration of your skin.

The thin consistency also enables it to be delivered through a tiny insertion point on each cheek. Using a cannula, the hyaluronic acid is distributed in a fan pattern to treat the surface of the mid-face, and part of the lower face.

Delivering the hyaluronic acid directly into your skin, under the very top layer, where it can be best used to replenish natural hydration levels and encourage elastin and collagen production and deposition.

The result of the treatment is hydrated, glowing, smoother skin with improved moisturisation lasting for up to six months.

Super Boost will give your skin a radiance and smoothness that you will see you through the summer months. Bringing back that youthful smooth, dewy complexion so the makeup can be left in the drawer this summer!

The treatment takes 30 minutes, with one of our nurses and there is minimal discomfort and no downtime—one of our doctors even went to a wedding within a couple of hours of her treatment!

3 2 1 MANUK AU R D, E PS OM | 0 9 6 3 8 4 2 4 2 | CL INIC4 2.C O. N Z

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Lovely Hydrating Night Cream by Lovely by Skin Institute will soothe and hydrate while you sleep or boost skin during the day if your skin is feeling a bit dry. It also helps to repair and renew the skins protective and defensive functions. Co-Enzyme Q10 is a strong anti-oxidant, fighting off free radicals as you sleep. 60ml, $59. Available at Lovely by Skin Institute stores.

An uptick in anxiety, an increase in screen time and an inability to ‘switch off’ our brains can seriously affect the quality of our sleep. Here are a few of our favourite products that help make sleep and downtime a true self-care ritual.

lovelybyskin.co.nz

Herbal Potential

Salt Lab Magnesium Spray

Herbal Potential’s Sandman Tea is calming and relaxing, helping you to rest better, improving sleep and keeping up your tolerance for daily stressors. Sandman tea is a nervine tonic, made with 100% organic herbs including valerian, withania, passionflower, lemonbalm, Californian poppy and lavender.

The high-grade Magnesium Oil Spray from Salt Lab is 100% natural and effective. Had a stressful day at work? Struggling to sleep?

Got outrageously sore muscles after your last weights session? Magnesium Oil Spray is a completely safe way for athletes, pregnant and breastfeeding women and even children and the elderly to soothe their skin, relax, unwind and drift off to sleep. Available at People Like Us.

herbalpotential.co.nz

peoplelikeusactive.co.nz

Guide To A Good Night’s Sleep

KiwiKitz KiwiKitz Snooze drops still use the original herbal recipe they have been making for over 15 years. Kiwikitz use concentrated herbal extracts blended to produce the best possible results.

Their Snooze drops soothing and calming and are recommended for supporting normal sleep patterns, winding down support, relaxation and both mental and emotional energy. kiwikitz.com

FLOATING FLOATING FLOATING Three of the Verve team experience Floatation Therapy for the first time at White Spa + Float Lounge and share their experiences.

Ashlee I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I slowly eased myself into the float tank but was immediately struck by the sensations in my muscles and body.

I’m not a professional athlete or sports person, but I do spend a fair amount of time being active which often leaves my body feeling worn out, stiff and sore. I also know that when I get stressed I immediately tense up around my neck and shoulders. As soon as I was immersed in the 500kg of Epsom salts, it was like a gentle tingling sensation through these areas – like they were slowly letting go.

Fran Memories of a Mauritian beach, fluorescent sands that glittered in the moonlight, floating in warm nighttime salty waters cocooned in deepest darkness. Leonardo’s Vitruvian Man – maybe this is how I look, but I can’t see myself so I am not sure; my mother, my brother, my father, my best friend, do they hang out with each other up there somewhere, unfettered by time?

In normal life, an hour disappears in a flash. But with only thoughts to stream, and nothing else to do but to soak and relax – time stretched – and took on an unusually luxurious and languid quality.

Eventually my mind quietened and I felt myself slipping into the land of snooze - hard to believe that one can sleep when suspended in a tank of salty water – but after 30 minutes or so of floating I had become so relaxed even I was not surprised.

After my wonderful, extraordinary and interesting float experience at White Spa, I felt so rested and relaxed. Thank you White Spa, for a beautiful experience. I will be back.

Floatation therapy had a profound effect on my whole body, I didn’t realise everything could feel so loose and free! Floating is definitely my newest obsession.

Jude I was welcomed into White Spa like an old friend, ushered through their reception and sat in their delightful waiting area with huge windows looking out onto a garden – a wonderful start to my float tank experience.

I have to admit I was slightly nervous as I sometimes feel a little claustrophobic. I admitted to this to the staff who suggested I place a towel in between the door opening so there was a little light coming in.

I did this and felt totally secure. During my time in the tank I took the towel away – and didn’t feel at all claustrophobic.

It was a magical time and one that makes one think about so many aspects of life, even though I am sure you are not meant to have a busy mind during this experience. But, I loved it — I floated, I thought, I dreamed, I sung.

09376969 | 0276259693 2/182 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay whitespa.co.nz

That evening every muscle in my body was relaxed.

I felt so chilled and couldn’t wait to go to bed as I knew I was going to have an amazing sleep!

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Eco-Friendly, Natural and Sustainable Beauty Products 01

Natural, organic beauty products that the environment and your body will love you for using.

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HIPPIE STICKS HippieStick is the world’s first plantable lipstick! Each tube contains cornflower seeds, which means at the end of use, you can plant your tube to grow a beautiful flower that provides a great food source for the bees. All products are made from natural, vegan, and lip loving ingredients for a healthy pout allowing for excellent staying power on each groovy shade.

HippeSticks are: NZ made, vegan, zero waste/compostable, crueltyand palm-free. hippiestick.co.nz

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RADIANCE Radiance have been helping Kiwis lead healthier lives for over 30 years.

They use premium ingredients to formulate supplements that help New Zealanders feel better inside and out. The Radiance beauty range is the ultimate in age-defying beauty with specialised products to support hair, skin and nail health.

Radiance products are made with you, your family and our earth in mind – and now have a 100% recyclable new look. radiance.co.nz

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LITTLE SALTIES NATURAL DEODORANT Little Salties natural deodorants are formulated from the best clean ingredients to ensure you stay feeling fresh all day. Made in New Zealand and boosted with magnesium and salt, Little Salties deodorants help to neutralise and inhibit odour causing bacteria using an innovative formula which provides healthy and safe protection against odour and wetness. littlesaltiesnz.com

“Our goal is to be a 100% circular brand by 2021, which means offering all products in recyclable and refillable options”

Since launching in 2019 to rave reviews, cult skincare brand Emma Lewisham has embodied a new sustainability standard in skincare.

Their mission is to make a meaningful impact in the beauty industry, and the 100% clean, scientifically validated skincare line embodies the brand’s belief that luxurious, efficacious products don’t have to compromise people’s health or our planet.

Emma Lewisham’s Beauty Circle emmalewisham.com

Emma Lewisham has partnered with TerraCycle® to launch NZ’s first sustainable beauty initiative for all brands of facial skincare products, called the Emma Lewisham Beauty Circle. It’s a free, incentive-based recycling programme to ensure beauty products are kept in circularity, rethinking a beauty product’s lifespan.

Emma Lewisham Beauty Circle offers free returns, rewards and recycling for not only its own facial products’

packaging, but remarkably, for all brands. Beauty lovers hold onto a minimum of four products at a time, return these for recycling via Terracycle, and they’ll receive a $15 Emma Lewisham voucher.

This initiative focuses on mitigating the mass-wastage produced by the beauty industry, and repurposing packaging that would otherwise go to landfill. Many New Zealanders don’t realise that the majority of beauty packaging cannot be recycled via our kerbside recycling.

Founder Emma Lewisham realised the enormity of this beauty packaging problem and quickly came to the conclusion that beauty brands need to take ownership and divert end-oflife product waste, especially if the brand’s packaging includes nonrecyclable materials, destined for landfill.

DITCH THE RAZOR AND GET LASER! Caci are the experts in laser hair removal – being the first to bring the treatment to New Zealand back in 1994.

They know their stuff with over 276,000 treatments over 26 years and with 56 clinics to choose from. Their Diode laser is fast, effective and features a cooling tip – for comfort.

Until 31 October – get two areas for the price of one!

BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

0800 458 458 CACI.CO.NZ

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

The Collagen Craze They say you are what you eat. The ingesting collagen trend of late, apparently, we’re aiming to eat and drink our way to a supple-skinned future. Heralded as the fountain of youth, collagen has been a key ingredient in creams for decades now. So, what is collagen? Why have we started eating it? And does it work?

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Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, it helps provide structure for your skin and is part of the building blocks for your muscles, bones and blood vessels. Sort of like a glue for your body. Somewhere around our mid-twenties, its production begins to slow.

We lose about 1% of our collagen production each year, which contributes to signs of ageing or sun damage.

There are 16 types of collagen, the one used in beauty products is Type-1. It’s responsible for the skin's shape and strength. When collagen is used in creams, it is assumed that it can penetrate the deep outer layer of skin. There is a bit of uncertainty around this, and so someone came up with the idea of ingesting it.

WORD S― B ELLA SAM PS O N

Some studies have supported that consuming it helps to increase collagen production and density, as well as healthier hair, nails, joints, hydrated skin and the diminished appearance of fine lines or wrinkles. Most nutritionists recommend collagen as one of the few

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

options better suited to being taken as a supplement, rather than derived from whole foods. However, some still wonder if it can survive the digestion process.

So, is it a fact or fiction? Really, we have to say it’s a bit of both. If you’re using it in a cream specifically for the collagen, you might be better off researching the other ingredients as well. Although serums with it or vitamin C have been known to show promising results after a few months and are great for minor scarring, as they hydrate the top layers of skin.

As for the teas, bone broths, coffee creamers and protein powder―the signs currently look quite positive.

In New Zealand, we have a quite a few brands such as Jeunora, Radiance, Bare and Two Islands in the supplement game. They offer a wide variety of collagen products fit to mix into drinks, sprinkle over cereal, bake into food or have as a capsule. They can be found online, at health or sports shops, as well as supermarkets.

If you’re going to indulge in collagen-related products, remember you need to consistently use them to see and retain the results. A healthy lifestyle and diet with plenty of vitamin C, amino acids, proline (found in egg whites and dairy), glycine (in protein-rich foods), and copper (sesame seeds, cocoa, cashews and organ meats), can further assist your journey.

Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of six leading specialist obstetricians and support staff. Together we have many years of experience and feel privileged to be able to share in the care of women during their pregnancy. To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby call our team or visit our website.

09 367 1200 | obstetrics.co.nz

Lynda Batcheler Astrid Budden Eva Hochstein Katherine McKenzie Kirstie Peake Jason Waugh

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

PALM CLINIC

Making it Look Natural

BEFORE

Dr Sam Dunn of Palm Clinic in Remuera describes how he uses cosmetic treatments to achieve a fresher, more rested appearance without looking 'done'.

At first glance, when looking at these before and after photos, it's hard to pick what has actually changed, but the overall impression is of a more rested, fresher face with no individual area appearing overdone. This is what most of our clients at Palm Clinic are seeking — a ‘freshen up’ rather than appearing as if they’ve had work.

Skilful placement of dermal fillers and botulinum toxin in the right place and at the right volume help our model to

look like she's been on holiday, rather than like she's 'been to the clinic’. I’ve placed botulinum toxin in the frown and forehead and around the crow's feet to soften lines, lift the brows and open the eyes to create a fresher look.

I've also used dermal filler to enhance the bone structure, defining the outer cheeks and achieving a generally ‘lifted' appearance. Dermal filler has also been used to soften the lines either side of the mouth.

Palm Clinic is accredited with the New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine and offers the full range of cosmetic treatments from medical grade skincare, to facials and peels,

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AFTER

injectables, medical laser, cosmetic surgery, and liposuction. Dr. Dunn has been a cosmetic physician for 14 years. He works closely with cosmetic nurse specialist Lee Titchener, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Stephen Mills and advanced skin therapists Marnie Crowe and Karen Eady to get optimal aesthetic results that Palm Clinic is renowned for.

Visit palmclinic.co.nz to view more of our before and after images.

CONTACT palmclinic.co.nz 139 Remuera Rd, Auckland 09 522 8128

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 noninvasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 18 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 the entire fat pad - from skin to muscle. Given each patient’s unique biological complex, the truSculpt iD is able to adjust the energy output to ensure the most effective treatment for each person. Real-time temperature control and monitoring sensors ensure the therapeutic temperature level is reached in the fat, while maintaining a skin temperature of 3-4°C cooler.

How is treatment performed?

An initial evaluation is performed to frame the desired treatment areas. A total of six hand pieces may be used to target an area that is larger than three CoolSculpt cool max applicators (approximately 12 SculpSure applicators). Each hand piece is gently applied using a piece of double-sided tape. A cummerbund is then wrapped

around the body, ensuring full contact.

Patients have reported experiencing mild heat with an overall high level of comfort during the 15-minute session.

How do I know if I am a candidate?

Unlike other non-invasive fat removal procedures such as CoolSculpt and SculpSure, truSculpt iD does not have any BMI (body mass index) or weight restrictions. Almost anyone can be treated with the truSculpt iD. How many treatments will I need?

Ninety-five percent of patients will only require one treatment per area! We can treat multiple (as many as three) areas in a single 15-minute session!

Is the treatment painful?

No! Patients report the treatment feels like a warm stone massage. Some feel the heat in the first minute to be a bit intense but then adjust to the treatment.

How long before I see my results?

Results will be noticeable immediately (firming, improved skin tone and texture, some reduction), however, fat cells are removed over a period of time and maximum results will be achieved at 12 weeks. There's an average of 24 percent fat reduction on treated area, in one treatment.

BEFORE

BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

TruSculpt ID Benefits • Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator)

• From just 15 minutes!

• Painless • Safe for use in obese and morbidly obese patients • Suitable for male and female • Tightens the skin by remodelling collagen • Amazing results-some patients have reported over 35% reduction in fact (***measured by ultrasound in clinical trials)

• Treat ALL areas including the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, chin, thighs, arms and calves • Men and women

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CON S ULTAT I ON 591A REMUERA RD, REMUERA ∙ 09 520 5331 ∙ FINESSEFACEANDBODY.CO.NZ

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Good Hearing is Good Health

D R AVANI K AR L

A Journey Through Menopause

In Covid19 times the World Health Organisation (WHO) has shown leadership.

WHO also promotes the importance of hearing checks and early identification of hearing loss. Their message: “Check your hearing.

You could be missing out?”

Navigating through menopause may not feel like a cause for celebration with the hot flashes, insomnia, memory lapse, anxiety and weight gain often experienced during this stage of a woman’s life. However, I am a firm believer in embracing this change and by giving your body what it needs, you can truly transform your life.

In these times of physical distancing hearing well allows us to be socially connected and communicate effectively with others.

With hormones, it’s all about balance. The hormones that keep us healthy and happy are the same ones that cause emotional and physical distress. During menopause, the body has an imbalance of sex hormones which are often secreted in lower quantities and released at the wrong time, leading to common symptoms. The relationship between hormones is intricate – and while they each have a specific function, it’s important to remember they all work together in a complex system.

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Julie Hill Audiologist provides: • I am an experienced audiologist and you will get my personal care at each appointment.

• Independent recommendations.

Our clinic is locally owned and is not affiliated with any hearing instrument manufacturer.

• All care for your health and safety when you are in my clinic. This is a small practice with no communal waiting area.

Has your family questioned how you hear?

Should you have a hearing check?

Do your hearing aids need a performance check?

BOOK A NO-CHARGE 20 MINUTES APPOINTMENT to see Julie Hill Audiologist for independent advice on all your hearing concerns.

Offer available during October and November: Quote VERVE 2020.

Ph 09 523 0500 OR hearinginfo@juliemhill.co.nz

Although a difficult time, a comprehensive functional assessment, combined with blood and urine tests, and a personalised treatment plan can help to overcome symptoms and prevent long term chronic health problems. If you are going through menopause, here are a few lifestyle measures you can take: • Ensure your diet consists of wholegrains, cruciferous and other green vegetables, seeds, nuts and fruits • Avoid cosmetics that contain parabens and phthalates as these are chemicals that disrupt hormonal balance.

• Exercise must be included in the daily routine as it helps relaxation, breathing, mental clarity, improves muscle mass and bone health. It’s important to combine both aerobic and anaerobic exercises.

• Manage stress by incorporating five minutes of mindfulness or meditation. Twice daily is all you need to reset your body clock.

• Targeted botanicals and bio-identical hormone replacement may be needed.

Above all, it’s crucial to listen to your body as each woman’s menopausal journey will be unique. Remember that you’re not alone and you can work with a practitioner to form a personal treatment plan.

Dr Avani Karl, MBBS FRNZCGP, Dip Obs, currently practises in Auckland as a functional medicine practitioner.

Specialising in an individualised treatment approach, she works closely with her patients, empowering them to address the underlying cause of disease to achieve optimal wellness. Visit fmdr.co.nz for more information.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Four areas for the price of 3

SAVE $600

Coolbody practitioner Yvonne Marvin RE SU LTS AF TE R ON E SE SSION

Back fat kept following me around until I discovered Coolbody’s guaranteed technique of fat freezing. I am a very happy client.

BEFORE TREATMENT

■ Men and women love this area done.

■ I had 4 areas done. Each area done twice.

■ We guarantee our results.

AFTER TREATMENT

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

26 COLLEGE HILL , FREEMANS BAY COOLBODYNZ@GMAIL .COM • 021 923 430

FASHION

Masque 101

Syrene Hydrating Masque Syrene An overnight gel masque that restores critical moisture to a dry complexion. It melts into your skin while creating a deep reservoir of hydration, providing antioxidants to protect your skin from the environmental drivers of ageing and leaves skin dewy and plump. $119.99

Intense Hydrating Balm and Mask Cosmedix CosMedix Rescue + Intense Hydrating Balm and Mask restores severely dehydrated skin and rapidly relieves a chapped complexion for a rejuvenated appearance. Argan oil and shea butter work together to moisturise for a soft and touchable texture. This thick mask is perfect for dry and post-procedural skin. $115

Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask 111Skin It's time for a complete under-eye overhaul.

These hardworking eye masks are loaded with a plethora of anti-ageing actives and powered by targeted, time release technology to deliver serious results. $172

syreneskincare.co.nz

prescriptionskincare.co.nz

dermalogica.co.nz

Hydro Masque Exfoliant Dermalogica Hydrating and exfoliating five-minute masque smoothes and renews for luminous, healthylooking skin. Exfoliating bamboo primes skin for optimal hydration. Snow mushroom holds 450 times its weight in water – infusing skin with hydration, antioxidants and vitamin D. Jojoba ester and amino acids derived from sugar beets hydrate and help strengthen skin’s moisture barrier. $108

Purifying Masque Codage This powerful purifying mask is a white clay and bamboo powder-based emulsion formulated for combined to oily skins. A truly purifying film, this mask's in-depth cleansing unclogs pores, eliminates impurities and absorbs excess sebum. Within a few minutes, skin is left soft, comfortable and completely mattified. The complexion is brightened with a radiant glow. $80

Active Enzyme Exfoliator Mask Josh Rosebrook Josh Rosebrook's professional resurfacing treatment works to clear, soften and renew skin. Potent fruit and herbal enzymes gently slough off dead skin cells while finely ground walnut shells mechanically reveal new skin.

This dual-action exfoliation delivers results that are visibly better than either method alone. Suited for all skin types including acne, rosacea, psoriasis and sensitive. $122

dermalogica.co.nz

inesstore.com

inesstore.com

WOR D S — PAR IS M ITC H E L L TEM P L E

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There’s nothing like indulging in a masque before bed or before a night out.

Masques deliver highly concentrated actives, vitamins and nutrients to skin, they help tackle seasonal challenges our skin face. Here are some at-home masques that derive from nourishing ingredients in all sorts of forms.

Spring 2021 Collections Paris Georgia Knit Cardigan, $579 parisgeorgiastore.com

Paris Georgia Knit Skirt, $569 parisgeorgiastore.com

Emilia Wickstead Spring 21

Wynn Hamlyn Portal Sweater, $595 wynnhamlyn.com

Maggie Marilyn Dress, $945 maggiemarilyn.com Molly Goddard Spring 21 Simone Rocha Spring 21

As collections start to surface from design time in lockdown, brands are working on smaller collections with stronger messages. Through lonely times and darker moods comes fantasy and a sense of escapism. Designers have dreamt big this season – exaggerated silhouettes, obscure beading and powerful imagery.

Georgia Alice Dress, $899 georgiaalice.com

Isn't it great to see spring? With the arrival of daylight saving you just know summer is almost here. A change of fashion seasons is always fun, too, as it's when we get to hit “refresh” in our wardrobes and mix it up a bit.

With all the new season's styles hitting the stores (and yes, if I can encourage you to do one thing this year it's shop locally - not in an overseas online store) it's time to get your wardrobe 'summer ready'. Not sure what that entails? Read on for a few tips...

How is your space?

This might seem odd but the change of season is a great time to give your actual wardrobe a spring clean. Get in there with a duster and the vacuum cleaner, remove everything from the shelves and drawers and clean it. While you're doing that, bin any old, ugly, just bunged in the back of the wardrobe items (you know the ones I mean).

Okay, now you're ready.

SI G NATU RE ST YLE

Summer Ready?

What do you already own?

Take a look at your existing summer pieces.

Do any work for the new season? Be honest, anything that's dated and old will make you look dated and old. Do they still fit? Do you still LOVE them?

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Shop the latest and the very best of the best in top fashion brands sourced from both local and international labels. THREADS is your one stop shop for all things designer.

Threads lets you fill your wardrobe with high-end fashion such as Acler, Cecilie Cophenhagen, Sass & Bide, One Teaspoon, Rough Studios and D.O.F to name a few. Happy Shopping!

threads.co.nz hello@threads.co.nz @threadsonline @threadsonlinenz

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How are they looking?

Anything worn, stained, discoloured or lost it's shape? Move those items on. Anything need mending? Get that job done. Don't give room to garments that are past their best.

Check your shoes. How are the soles?

The heels?

Anything need a bit of love? Clean what needs to be cleaned and be ruthless with those that are scruffy and need replacing.

What do you need?

Is it time to update your tees? Do you need a new pair of summer sandals? Make a list of those items that will give your wardrobe a new lease of life.

Make a list.

Buying to a list of specifics stops you overspending on items that might stop you creating a workable wardrobe. You know what I mean — yes, that stunning dress might be beyond gorgeous but if you've blown your entire budget on it you might regret it!

Jackie O’Fee is owner of Auckland’s leading personal style consultancy, Signature Style. Auditing and creating great wardrobes is one of her superpowers!

If you’d like help with yours call 529 5115 or email crew@signaturestyle.co.nz

freshen up for spring AT O R A K E I B AY VI L L A G E U PDAT E YO U R WA R D R O B E , YO U R H O M E A N D Y O U R H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G T H I S S P R I N G .

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Shop f rom a range of locally owned and operated retailers at Orakei Bay Village. Follow us @orakeibayvillage or visit obv.co.nz for all specials & events.

228 ORAKEI BAY ROAD, ORAKEI, AUCKL AND

Available from sunnastudios.co and Instagram @sunnastudios

FASHION

Sustainable children's wear label Sunna Studios was founded by NZ based sister duo Elise and Brooke who are committed to creating consciously.

Sunna specialises in organic knitwear; designed for quality and comfort in gender neutral styles and colours, with the aim for each piece to hold value and a long garment life with it's buyer.

Available to purchase now from our online store www.paintedbird.nz

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LILYGRIFFIN Nicki Burton, founder of Lilygriffin jewellery, evokes childhood memories of making daisy and buttercup chains, investigating beach rockpools and going on bushwalks through native forests in her jewellery designs. Her designs are cast in sterling silver, and then come to life through handcrafting. All the sculpting, sanding, cutting, filing, grinding, polishing, painting, bonding, firing, burnishing, plating, hammering, shaping, wire wrapping and assembling is carefully done in her small studio in Auckland.

L I LY G R I F F I N.N Z

Experience the beauty of premium quality European vintage clothing and accessories.

Our curated collections include thousands of exquisite vintage items, plus sustainable jewellery.

Available online or in-store.

164 Kitchener Rd Milford

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www.paintedbird.nz @paintedbirdnz

319 REMUERA ROAD, CNR NORANA & REMUERA RD S H O P S 2 0 9, W E S T F I E L D N E W M A R K E T 3 0 9 B R O A D WAY, NEWMARKET W W W. H A R T L E Y S . C O . N Z

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PH OTO G R APHY — E LSA YO UN G

COLOUR BOX

The rich textures and bright colours of architect Kate Otten’s Johannesburg home mirror the garden, balancing a sense of energy and tranquillity.

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CREATE THE LOOK

Resene Crusoe Resene Cinnamon

Resene Explorer Resene Half Kumutoto

Resene Ebony Clay Resene Half Copyrite

The Frog & Lily · Fabulous food · Delicious coffee · Events · Parties · Weddings · Stunning gardens

The Frog and Lily is a charming café down Waiuku way. Having heard that it is really worth a visit, Verve sent their roving reporter to find out more.

Cushla Arbuckle, who owns and operates The Frog and Lily, took time out of her day to chat to us.

Tell us a little about your background and how you came to own this place?

After owning a hotel in Kawhia I moved to Tokoroa where I purchased a closed café on a whim and took on the challenge to make it work. And it did.

I eventually sold this award winning café, Rumbly Tums, and moved north to pursue a bigger challenge with my daughter Tamar.

You can view the Wrights Watergardens from The Frog & Lily

What inspired you to call this café 'The Frog and the Lily’?

Through the ideas floating around for names we discovered that both mine and Tamar's favourite flowers are arum lilies and I have a love of frogs. Both of which are abundant here at the water gardens, so it ran together well.

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Tamar Hunter and Cushla Arbuckle

63 Tell us more about The Frog and the Lily.

The Frog and Lily is a destination café where we try to provide a point of difference. Being rural we need a reason for people to make the trip to see us.

We have warm and welcoming staff, we make our own fudge on site, we have artisan (rolled) ice cream, we have chickens, turkeys, alpacas, turtles and a playground for the kids.

We have a nursery where you can buy water lilies and lotus in season, a selection of aquatic plants as well as a variety of locally made retail products.

We also boast great views over the garden while you are dining.

you can enter six acres of garden. We are very significant to each other. The garden attracts tourists who want to see the waterlilies and lotus and also the amazing Mauku waterfall.

And in turn, the gardens provide us with customers. People come for the great food and coffee and then spend time in the gardens. All areas are also dog friendly.

How have you had to adjust your business following Covid-19?

We are in the process of redoing our website so we can sell our fudges and catering online.

also (vegan high tea menu available on request).

How do you take time out from work?

Because the business is so new and due to the effect of Covid-19 at this stage there is no time out. But I am a keen golfer and artist.

Plans for the rest of the year and early next?

Christmas carols, an easter egg hunt, our new summer menu and evening dining, a new website with online sales, lots of weddings, and please diarise our Doggy Day Out on 18th October 2020

We have three event spaces: the café area, our wedding lawn and our summer house which sits facing the Mauku waterfall. We hire out and can cater in any of these areas.

Tell us about the menu and recommendations.

We have a great selection on our menu, ranging from classics (lambs fry and bacon) to more modern fare (chicken waffles). We recommend it all.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Wedding packages are available by emailing hello@thefrogandlily.co.nz

Your café is, I am told, the gateway to Wrights Water Gardens.

Yes, our café is the first stop before

We also have a selection of cabinet food, including some gluten friendly and dairy free and keto options too.

Our high teas are proving popular

Contact 128 Mauku Rd, Patumahoe thefrogandlily.co.nz hello@thefrogandlily.co.nz

Blo om ing Wo nde r ful 5 GREAT PLACES IN THE WORLD TO ENJOY SPRING WILDFLOWERS

WORD S — BELLA SAMPS ON

Wildflowers hold an unpredictable nature, weather dependant yet often self-sufficient in their spread. They’re a beauty to behold and a natural photographer’s bread and butter. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to get out in nature, and while we may be bound by borders for now; we can still go on wanderlust travels through our national backyard (or Pinterest and plan for future flights).

With that in mind, here are some of the world’s most wondrous wildflowers:

NAMAQUALAND DAISIES South Africa This orange ocean of untended daisies is a rare addition to the desert they inhabit. Although upon closer inspection you’ll find a pointillism effect of yellow, white and purple daisies blending in as well. Because of the dry conditions, the daisies only bloom between the second week of August to early September. Although, this can be unpredictable as rain seasons fluctuate. The illusive daisies also only open up from the morning till afternoon.

KUJU PARK Japan With over 500 varieties of wildflower in every conceivable colour, Kuju park is breathtaking to say the least. The flowers bloom throughout the seasons aside from winter, but the spring months yield the most stunning results from the plethora of petals.

Located at the base of the Kuju Mountains, the 49 acres promise a stunningly surreal adventure.

THE BLUE FOREST Belgium Thickly blanketed in bluebells from spring to summer, this magical forest has been a popular attraction for hundreds of years. The violet to blue swathes of flowers, contrast the tall thin ancient trees. Depending on the weather, you can experience a mythical mist blended between the florals and foliage, or a bright ‘fairy-tale ending’ like landscape.

LAKE TEKAPO/TAKAPŌ New Zealand If you have a friend who’s done the South Island road trip, you’ve no doubt seen these stunning purple, pink, blue and yellow flowers framing their Instagram shots.

The most prominent pictures of the Lake Tekapo/ Takapō Lupins are of them layered before the water and mountain ranges. However, there are plenty of fields filled with the flora around the area, perfect for you to fawn over. Although they bloom in the warmer seasons, November-December are their peak bloom period.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK USA Nicknamed ‘wildflower national park’ due to its 1500 varieties of plant species, this park is renowned for its vibrant untamed beauty. While North America has numerous national parks filled to the brim with wildflowers, Great Smoky has such a diverse collection that you’ll find something beautiful no matter when you go. The park hosts a ‘Wildflower Spring Pilgrimage’ annually, which gives guests a chance to see the rarer species like the lady slipper orchid or dwarf iris.

OUTDOORS

Function and Proportion Meet Harmony and Simplicity The attitude at Kinnell & Posch, a locally operated furniture design retail business, stems from beliefs which blend and flow from modern, well proportioned, functional elements underlined by principles of harmony and simplicity.

With founding partners from Sweden and New Zealand, they take sustainability and buying NZ made seriously.

We chatted to the founders about the current trends in outdoor living.

What trends are you seeing in furniture design and outdoor living from a global perspective?

As the distinction between indoor and outdoor furniture becomes blurred, large, comfortable outdoor settings are fast becoming more in demand.

Natural cane and rattan furniture is also very popular right now.

Any furniture design trends you’re tired of?

Anything that involves plastic. Resin or faux wicker furniture is a great example

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of this as it is made from polyethylene, the most common form of plastic in use today.

What’s your advice for those looking to restyle their outdoor living area?

It is better to buy well designed, high quality outdoor furniture which has been lovingly made from raw, natural materials for you to fall in love with, admire and enjoy over many years of use. It's an investment in your home life, and buying local is an investment in the environment and the economy.

Bring nature in with INDOOR PLANTS

ENHANCE YOUR WELLBEING

8 STORES AUCKLAND-WIDE 0800 PLANTS

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PURIFIY THE AIR

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REFRESH YOUR LIVING SPACE

SHOP ONLINE 24/7 KINGS.CO.NZ

OUTDOORS

C IT Y BOTANI C S

Turning Your Balcony into a

Garden Retreat A well-designed balcony or patio garden can change the way a home is utilised by extending the liveable space and creating a transitional flow from the indoor to outdoor world. As multi-functional spaces, our balconies are often used as places to entertain, to relax and unwind and to escape from the hustle of city living. In addition to this, it’s also quite common for balconies to never be too far away from the prying eyes of our neighbours and hence privacy is key to ensure that we feel comfortable enough to enjoy our outdoor room.

So why is it that so many of us are underutilising our balconies and shying away from creating our own little slice of garden paradise?

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City Botanics is committed to helping you achieve your dream garden retreat. They specialise in providing garden design and installations for small spaces, which ensures that they can deliver a suitable garden for your balcony. Their design philosophy focuses on keeping you connected with nature while increasing your liveable space, improving the quality of your home environment and creating a garden that meets your lifestyle commitments.

If you’re looking to transform your balcony space into your own garden retreat, then don’t be held back by your own perceived restrictions. There is a plant and pot that will suit every scenario, no matter how small or big your space may be.

City Botanics suggests that the common underlying theme when meeting with their clients, is that they lack the confidence in knowing which plants and accessories are most appropriate to use in their space.

Balconies generally fall victim to the extremes when it comes to exposure. They are often either too sunny or not sunny enough, too small or too narrow, open to the natural elements or completely undercover. Once you throw in the logistical concerns of shifting pots, plants and dirt and the fear of not knowing how to take care of your garden, it’s no surprise that people become paralysed and uninspired, leaving our balconies bare, uninviting and forgotten rooms.

NOT SURE WHAT TO PLANT?

WE DESIGN & INSTALL SMALL SPACE GARDENS. Balconies | Decks | Small Yards | Interiors

027 215 7884 SMALL SPACES. BIG GARDENS.

citybotanics.co.nz

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Ethan Outdoor Furniture Ethan Outdoor Furniture makes and markets a premium range of solid wood furniture for wonderful outdoor living and entertaining. All our furniture is individually hand crafted here in New Zealand to the highest quality and built to last for generations. Our family business started north of Auckland in 1983 and have been based in Wanganui for 20 years. Our team are passionate about making beautiful outdoor furniture that exceeds clients expectations.

your furniture with many great features, oil finishes, and fabric colours.

The Ethan Outdoor Furniture range includes many original designs, beautiful dining suites and furniture pieces to enhance your specific outdoor living space.

The furniture is made from premium hardwood iroko, highly durable materials and Sunbrella fabric. From the extremes of Central Otago to the South of France, Ethan Furniture is very well proven and has passed the test of time.

Ethan Furniture is designed to look beautiful, be highly functional and comfortable.

We specialise in making bespoke outdoor furniture so you can customise

The Ethan Dining Suite with round table and curved benches is our flagship product. It is a distinctive, timeless design and a real outdoor room. The five curved benches 'flow' around the table and sharing a curved bench with friends is a really fun way to relax and dine outdoors. The Ethan Suite brings people together for a unique social experience.

We only sell direct to both residential and commercial clients throughout New Zealand and around the world.

We enjoy working direct with you

then client, architects and designers to ensure we get furniture exactly right to fit your space.

One of our Auckland customers has had their Ethan Round Table suite for 30 years which is still being enjoyed daily.

They have had countless parties and special occasions with friends and family around their suite!

We are also proud to export approximately 30-40% of our production to the United Kingdom and Europe. Ethan Furniture has been featured at the prestigious Royal Chelsea Flower Show in London for over 15 years and ends up in some of the finest residences in the UK. Please call to chat options and email us for prices and information sales@ethan.co.nz.

Find us online at ethan.co.nz, Facebook, Instagram and Archipro.

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Discover Ethan Outdoor Furniture A premium range of furniture hand crafted in NZ for luxury outdoor living and entertaining.

Explore the Ethan Collection today.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

ethan.co.nz • 0800 378 873 sales@ethan.co.nz

JOURNEYS

BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO

Road Trips

Now, more than ever, we find ourselves yearning to leave home and go on holiday.

Luckily, New Zealand is a stunning country filled with great spots to see on a classic road trip. You’ll encounter an endless variety of picturesque landscapes, charming towns, quirky landmarks and a plethora of activities, plus the promise an exciting adventure. If you’ve never been on a road trip, here’s the beginner's guide...

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Have a good playlist sorted! It’s incredible how much a good soundtrack can enhance the scenery. Or a rousing round of karaoke can lighten the mood.

Choose your company wisely. Who do you love enough to be stuck in a small space with for potentially tens of hours? This may be the ultimate new relationship litmus test, but it’s also a great bonding experience for most.

Pack: clothing for all weather types. Even if you’re just going for a day or two, the weather forecast won’t always be accurate.

You’ll likely encounter rain – even in summer.

Some regions of the country experience gale force winds regularly, snow, and frost, some parts are humid when it’s hot, others have bone dry heats.

Be careful on winding rural roads. The locals and truck drivers know the way like the back of their hand and might speed around there. Drive at the legal speed you feel most comfortable with and give way when there is chance.

WO RD S —BELL A SAMP S O N

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Pack: high SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm.

Even on cloudy days, our UVA and UVB rays are still sneaking in. A first aid kit. A phone charger. An umbrella. Insect repellent, especially if you’re 'that' friend who always gets bitten.

Plan activities and locations ahead of time but remember to leave room in the schedule for relaxing, resting or re-energising. New Zealand’s small towns, larger towns and cities all have a lot to offer. Google and guidebooks won’t have it all.

Pack: a blanket, pillow, water and snacks in the car. You never know when someone might want a nap, need a drink between towns or get a little peckish.

Make time to stop and marvel at our beautiful mountain ranges, beaches, lakes, glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, deserts, thermal pools, forests, volcanoes, rivers, caves and more.

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Make sure you have GPS and a paper map as back-up to guide you. There are still a few rural areas that are out of cell range.

Follow the guidelines around natural wonders. If there is a warning, trust it. There will be similar safer ones to visit. Search ahead of time if you’re in doubt.

Figure out how long your road trip will be and if you need to manage accommodation.

We have many fabulous free/affordable campsites, campervan and RV rentals, Air BnBs, motels and hotels to pick from. New Zealand is often relaxed when it comes to last minute motel or hotel searches.

However, by looking ahead you can pick up deals or arrange for incredible experiences like a cabin by a starlit lake.

Bring a camera or utilise your phones nifty one. Get your own stunning advertisement worthy nature shots or friendship/family/ relationship Instagram #goal pictures.

Bring activities with you. Car games are good fun, even for adults. A pen and a notebook are always handy - sketch, journal, leave a note, tic tac toe? Pack a few good books, especially if you’re a passenger.

Have fun exploring our own ‘slice of heaven’!

Indulge in Luxurious, Seaside Accommodation Ounuwhao is a 1894 Kauri villa (listed Heritage property) hosted by Liz and Gordon, offering a superior B&B accomodation with a full cooked breakfast. The four queen rooms and seperate stand alone garden suite are full of character and charm, all featuring an en-suite or private bathroom.

Ounuwhao is located alongside a grassed reserve bordered by century-old Norfolk pines, opposite picturesque Matauwhi Bay. Ounuwhao is on the main route from the car ferry from Okiato to Russell, and a flat 10-minute stroll from Russell township or a twominute car ride.

To book your stay at Ounuwhao visit bedandbreakfastbayof islands.co.nz or call 027 4993 063

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Taumarunui Tempts

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WORD S — JAM IE CHRISTIAN DES P L AC ES

Positioned at the heart of King Country, Taumarunui is also Ruapehu’s biggest town, and has plenty of heart itself. Sure, it might not be New Zealand’s sexiest settlement (though they’re fast working on that by way of a beautification project that has seen sculptures, artworks and plenty of greenery installed along and around the main street), but it has several wonderful attractions, not to mention views, while serving as the northern gateway to Whanganui National Park and heaps more central North Island adventures. What’s more, it’s only threeand-a-half hours from Auckland. Verve was invited down to find out more.

There’s also a real sense of history at Taumarunui’s best B&B, The Inn at the Convent where awaits the warmest of welcomes thanks to a roaring log fire and the superb hospitality of hosts June and Geoff. The former religious residence retains much historic charm thanks to its high ceilings, wide stairs and plenty of creaking timber, complemented by modern, tasteful bathrooms all enclosed within a handsome, historic white villa. A delightful breakfast includes cereals, freshly squeezed juices and baked breads, European-style cheeses, smoked salmon, and locally reared bacon that’s out of this world.

A SENSE OF HISTORY Known as “the place of big shelter”, Taumarunui sits cradled by towering verdant ridgelines at the confluence of the Whanganui and Ongarue Rivers, waterways which once served as important transport and trade links for local Māori. Fitting then that the location is still of such economic importance, serving as the launchpad for recreational river tours and exploration. Along the rivers’ banks, the lovely Cherry Grove reserve marks the site of the original Māori settlement, Ngāpuwaiwaha (the Ngāpuwaiwaha marae is nearby), offering a peaceful spot to sit, reflect, and perhaps enjoy a picnic.

A SENSE OF ADVENTURE Local operator, the excellently named Blazing Paddles, offers more joy than you can shake a stick—or oar—at through its kayak and canoe tours, jet boat rides, fishing trips and scenic helicopter flights.

Half- through to multi-day combos allow for visitors to experience some of North island’s most iconic sights and activities, from paddling the legendary Whanganui River to viewing the peaks of Tongariro National Park to fishing some of the planet’s best trout waters.

Iconic cycling route the Timber Trail starts—or ends—just 15 minutes from Taumarunui. The 85km Great Ride

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follows old tramlines, taking in tunnels and thrilling suspension bridges, while also winding through whispering forests of rimu. It takes two days to complete, but if you only have time—or the inclination—for a taster, a shuttle service will ferry you and your bike to various points along the track allowing you to pedal back; or you can bike in and out the same way.

Whether you want to hike for a few minutes or a few days, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs in and around Taumarunui. Top of the list should be the 3km Te Peka Lookout that snakes through native and exotic bush for expansive views of town and its surrounding rivers, valleys and mountains. The 8km Whanganui River Track takes a couple of hours, beginning at Cherry Grove and follows the waterway past popular fishing and swimming spots and a stand of tōtara.

Taumarunui also boasts an everevolving arts scene, and nowhere better exemplifies its sense of community and creative soul than the volunteerrun Twin Rivers Gallery Studio where traditional Māori works share space with contemporary offerings and everything in between, all crafted by local talent such as artist Regan Hoban. Much of the work is for sale, and there’s a lovely collection of indigenous carvings and pounamu jewellery.

When you’re done paddling, biking, hiking and exploring the main drag, Monsoon Indian Restaurant serves up some of the best dishes in town. Then, soothe the spices by blowing suds off a few cold ones or sample some chilled vinos as you shoot the breeze with the locals in Taumarunui’s legendary RSA.

Positioned at the heart of King Country, Taumarunui is also Ruapehu’s biggest town, and has plenty of heart itself.

Soon to celebrate its centenary, the Tarrangower Golf Course is regularly rated among Aotearoa’s best. The all-weather, 18-hole course is noted for its park-like undulating fairways that lead to wellhidden greens guarded by impressive tree specimens such as redwoods.

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A FORGOTTEN WORLD

FOR THE SENSES A visit to Nevalea Alpacas is an absolute Taumarunui must-do. With a herd around 1,000-strong, it’s New Zealand’s largest alpaca farm, and you may meet, pet, feed and even walk some of them on a lead. Led by the lovely landowners Leonie and Neville, you won’t help but grin from ear to ear as you wander sprawling fields of friendly and highly inquisitive alpacas—surely one of the planet’s most photogenic creatures—as they graze alongside cattle and sheep in what is a peaceful, pastoral paradise.

Adding to the region’s far flung romance, Taumarunui bookends the Forgotten World Highway, a thoroughfare that follows ancient Māori trade routes, curling through some of Aotearoa’s most underexplored landscapes southwest to Stratford. Thanks to tour company Forgotten World Adventures, this near-secret slice of Middle-earth may be experienced by way of rail aboard specially adapted railcars (similar to golf carts and limited to 20km/h). The selfdriving tours travel an abandoned rail line for up to 140km, navigating

valleys, tunnels and townships, including the legendary Republic of Whangamomona. Visitors may travel all the way to Stratford over two days or choose to do a section of the railway line over a few hours or fullday and get a shuttle bus back.

Forgotten World Adventures also operate jet boat and helicopter adventures throughout Whanganui National Park, which may be booked separately or in combination with the Rail Ride.

Overnight options are available with these as well.

®

Omaka Lodge Boutique Bed & Breakfast Located only 7km from the friendly township of Taumarunui, down the incredible Forgotten World Highway, lies Omaka Lodge, a boutique bed & breakfast venue in the heart of New Zealand’s Forgotten World.

The short drive out from town follows the Whanganui River and is a beautiful scenic tour any time of the year. At the end of a tree lined sealed driveway, you’ll find Omaka Lodge and its beautiful mature gardens.

Well positioned on the crest of a hill, with magnificent views of Herlihy’s Bluff and Mount Hikurangi, and a peek of Mount Ruapehu, this wonderful venue offers total privacy and seclusion.

Situated amidst working farmland, the lodge and its grounds are surrounded by the sights and sounds of everyday country life, where sheep and cattle dot the rolling greenpastured hills and valleys that echo to the melodious sound of never-ending birdsong.

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Omaka Lodge is set on several acres of picturesque grounds, and we welcome groups or individuals to visit our beautiful and expansive country gardens by appointment.

Or if you’re thinking of a boutique garden wedding, or an intimate luncheon or business meeting or event, Omaka Lodge could be the picturesque setting you seek.

Relaxing at Omaka Lodge is a true delight with so many options on offer indoors or out. Swim or soak up the sun poolside; play croquet or a game of tennis; read a good book or magazine; watch TV; enjoy a garden ramble or doze indoors; there really is something for everyone at magical Omaka Lodge. Slightly further afield, the surrounding Ruapehu District offers many attractions that may pique your interest. There are so many ways to explore and enjoy New Zealand’s Forgotten World: drive the unforgettable Forgotten World Highway; hop on a Forgotten World rail cart and experience the hidden

countryside by rail; boat, canoe or kayak down the Whanganui River to the iconic Bridge To Nowhere. If adventure tourism is your thing, there are cycling, walking and hiking trails within easy reach, not to mention the mountains of the Tongariro National Park and its world-class ski fields.

At the end of the day, whatever you’ve experienced, Omaka Lodge welcomes you home. Enjoy a delightful dinner (if prearranged), and relax into a sumptuous bed. The beauty and warmth of Omaka Lodge will provide rest, satisfying and restoring a weary traveller. Omaka Lodge, a tranquil oasis amidst New Zealand’s Forgotten World.

Contact omakalodge.nz contact@omakalodge.nz 07 974 8543

OCTOBER 2020

Forget the World and Escape to a Riverside Haven Welcome to Te Awa Glamping, a luxury escape on the banks of the mighty Whanganui River. Located deep in our family farm with private beach access, you can arrive by jet-boat, canoe, air or road, for a stay you’ll be sure to remember.

Our luxury tent offers everything you'll need to unwind, or if you're an active relaxer, you can grab a bike and explore the range of trails in the area, canoe or jet-boat down to the Lavender Cafe or explore New Zealand's wondrous Forgotten World.

However you choose to unwind, you’ll find more than just glamping when you stay with us.

Contact 3 Omaka Rd, RD1, Taumarunui teawaglamping.co.nz / + 64 7 896 8698 info@teawaglamping.co.nz

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The Inn At The Convent Taumarunui.

Welcome To Our Beautiful Historic Boutique Bed & Breakfast Accommodation located in the heart of the Ruapehu district

Why visit?

• • • • • • • •

Golf course (Rated Top 50) Forgotten World Highway Forgotten World Adventures Lauren’s Lavender Farm Timber trail Great walks Whanganui River 55 Minutes to Whakapapa

The Inn At The Convent 9 High St, Taumarunui Ph: +64 7 896 7764 Mobile: + 64 (0) 21 974772 theinnattheconvent.co.nz

JOURNEYS

Be My Guest Waiheke Be My Guest offers a hand picked portfolio of fabulous holiday homes in Waiheke’s most sensational locations.

Whether you are looking for a beach holiday, to celebrate a special occasion, get away from the city and chill, or the perfect spot for a family holiday, they have the perfect property for you. Their service is excellent, making the booking process a breeze and providing the most useful information and insider tips to help you enjoy the island, along with the warmest of welcomes.

Need to get away over summer?

Be My Guest manages a boutique portfolio of luxury holiday houses in Waiheke's most sensational locations.

ESCAPE TO WAIHEKE

BOOK NOW 0800 400 248 BEMYGUESTWAIHEKE.CO.NZ

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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 adventure for everyone. Two day fantastic rides. Long weekends and our awesome One Day Wonders.

C O N TACT: 08 00 2 4 5 3 6 6 NZ freephone | IN FO@ BIKE ITN OW.C O.N Z | BIKE ITN OW.C O.N Z

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Anise

02 2 1 91 8 3 1 6

OCTOBER 2020

Anise Group specialise in Special Events & Boutique Weddings.

Stina our Functions & Events Extraordinaire with Executive Chef Paul will work with you to create a unique menu to suit your needs. We take great pride in the fact that we make everything from scratch, with love and great care.

Whether your event is small or large, we promise to deliver a unique experience by following a philosophy of using the freshest and best ingredients. We are licensed for any offsite catering, so if your wedding or event is on the beach, in a reserve, a holiday home, hall, barn, church or tropical island Anise will be there!

We offer a range of menu options to suit all tastes & budgets and are happy to tailor menus to make your event extra special.

ANISECATER ING .CO.NZ STINA@ANISECATER ING .CO.NZ

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natural luxury for humans being

Create memories in the surrounds of nature, be inspired to dream, bring together all of who you both are and present your day to your dear family and friends.

Create your wedding ceremony and reception or a second honeymoon at Bethells Beach Cottages. Pamper yourself during your stay.

Book a therapeutic massage, gift wrapped champagne, oral bouquet, gift basket, portable outdoor hot tub, (with rain water & scented owers for the romantic).

w w w. b e t h e l l sbe a c h. com

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

WEDDINGS

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W

ild Jo

Wildflower arrangements are the perfect way to celebrate spring and abandon oneself to the celebration of imperfection.

WO R D S — M EL ANIE D OWE R P H OTO — L I SA P O G G I P H OTO G R APHY

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As spring returns she makes her presence known through the colours that emerge in the world around us. For Vicki Roycroft, floral designer and founder of Wildflower Waiheke, springtime brings the joy of foraging as well as nostalgia for years gone by.

"One of the things I love about spring is when wildflowers begin to dot the roadsides and fields. What could be more idyllic than gathering stems of Queen Anne’s lace, cornflowers, poppies and forget-me-nots from a meadow?" she asks. "It takes me back to my childhood and making daisy chains."

While a wildflower arrangement can help transport this feeling indoors, it can take a surprising amount of consideration to create something designed to appear naturally made.

Whether a seasoned arranger, or a first-time picker, it’s best not to overthink it however and be guided by the colours you love, while also choosing flowers and foliage with a range of textures and shapes.

For Vicki, the essence of a wildflower arrangement comes from the sense of a coming-together of the best nature has to offer, rather than a carefully honed selection.

"Keep in mind how nature arranged these wildflowers so artfully but randomly in the field," she advises.

"To achieve a more natural look, place the blooms in small clusters, making sure there is plenty of space between the flowers so they are able to breathe, while creating a loose natural look rather than a static, controlled vibe."

With 20 years’ experience specialising in weddings and events, Vicki combines her teaching and florist skills by running workshops in what she calls ‘undone’ floristry.

Here she advises students to place stems at different heights, with some buried low and others flying wildly, to lend the arrangement a stronger sense of movement.

And while it’s good to consider your design, it’s best to save most your

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energy for enjoying your creation, rather than labouring over it.

"Celebrate imperfection," says Vicki.

"These are not hothouse blooms - they will not last long, their petals will fade and drop. There may be the odd bug or beetle, but it is this very imperfect and ephemeral nature of wildflowers that makes their fleeting beauty so loved."

For upcoming floral workshops, visit The Wildflower School online. wildflowerwaiheke.com Instagram: @wildflowerwaiheke

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WEDDINGS

Creating Your Own Wildflower Arrangement WORDS— MELANIE DOWER

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PREPARE YOUR VESSEL Use chicken wire or waterproof tape to create a mesh over the opening of your vase. This will support your pieces and allow them to rest at different angles.

LAY IT ALL OUT Lay out the best of your plants and get rid of any pieces that are damaged. Group them according to type, size and colour so it’s easy to build your arrangement as you go.

SIZE MATTERS Consider for a moment the size and shape you would like your arrangement to be. Generally speaking, an arrangement one and a half times the size of your vase works well. Also think about how it will be viewed―will it be seen from all sides or only from the front?

COLOUR ME UP Try to use no more than three colours, although different shades of the same colour work well.

Have fun and experiment with combinations such as purple and yellow, or pink and green.

P H OTO GRAPHY—T VS C RE ATIVE

STRIP BACK Remove foliage from the part of the stem that will be underwater, as it can invite bacteria and shorten the life of your flowers. Foliage above the waterline however adds interest and fills space.

GET STARTED Start with the bigger pieces first, such as branches and greens.

Allow them to spill out of the vase naturally to avoid a symmetrical shape. Now add your main flowers. Use an odd number and place them on different levels to create interest and texture. If your arrangement leans to one side, consider building it higher to create a sense of balance.

BUILD IT UP Continue to build your arrangement with the smaller supporting pieces, fine-tuning and building character with pieces such as feathery grasses.

This helps create the sense of wildness. Be sure to cover the wire or tape you used at the mouth of the vase.

ET VOILÀ!

Consider your work from all sides and adjust as needed. Enjoy your masterpiece!

EVENT The Wildflower School Spring Floral Indulgence workshops at Oyster Inn and Mudbrick. 1-2 November 2020; and The Picking Garden Workshop at Nourish Gardens flower farm 22-23 November 2020.

VISIT wildflowerwaiheke.com

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MODERN LIFE

PHOTO GRAP HY — E L SA YOU N G WORD S — GRAHAM WO OD

An authentic late-modernist gem of a home in Johannesburg has been brought to life by fashion designer Lezanne Viviers

Left: The kitchen includes artworks by local contemporary artist Lady Skollie, Composition with Bottles and Playdough, 2015, by art photographer, Nico Krijno, as well as vintage Murano glass vases.

Right: The slim beams and high ceiling create a light, airy volume.

The modular sofa unit lends itself to being reconfigured to keep the space open and flexible. The coffee table is vintage Kartell and the ceramics are from ARTISAFIRE, a local non-profit pottery studio.

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Right: The dining room opens onto a large covered balcony, beautifully blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor space in the classic modernist fashion, an effect enabled by the delicately framed floor-to-ceiling windows. Ceramics on the dining table are a collection of found glass objects, including a Murano vase, an a Ukranian bowl.

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Right: The main bedroom includes all its original fittings including beautiful built-in cupboards in the dressing room. The wicker Peacock Chair finds dramatic expression in a corner alongside the window.

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HOME & DESIGN

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A lovely reminder of how beautiful change can really be

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A Town House In Cambridge Lockdown changed almost everything about our lives this past autumn, including the amount of time we spent in our homes. It also brought a new focus to our living spaces for many as we lived our entire lives unexpectedly house-bound. Even after people could return to their jobs, the percentage of Kiwis still at their home offices remains high.

WORDS Aimée Ralfini

While living and working from the same place was a steep learning curve for the unaccustomed, many of us engaged with our homes differently, seeing the advantage of creating and repurposing spaces to function in multiple ways. Collectively we’ve scrutinised and readjusted our relationship with our homes.

Grant and Karen Jack’s home in the small Waikato town of Cambridge bursts with the sort of innovative live-work energy we all desire. Having both lived in big international cities and enjoyed the advantages and energy of innercity life, Grant and Karen wanted the best of urban living in one of North Island’s prettiest small towns.

Designed by Christopher Beer Architects and awarded HOME magazine's 2017 Home of the Year, the building’s unique site, layout, and materials reconsiders what a family home and live workspace can be.

Making the most of a limited and unusually shaped site, the Jacks' house is woven around three courtyards and encased by a curved brick wall to offer both privacy and all the advantages of living in the center of Cambridge.

Inspired by the courtyard living common in Japan, the Middle East, and Spain, two courtyards are internal spaces flooding light into the home’s interior, while the third and front courtyard connects to the road. This is where Grant’s artist studio is situated, and also the popup coffee hatch he runs.

This fantastic home is something else! Where did you start with your brief to the architect? What were your top requests? How did you want your home to feel? I can’t really remember the brief; I wanted a place where I could live and run a studio/gallery space and we had a few thoughts in common with Chris like that a courtyard house is a good scheme for the small odd site. But we tried to leave a lot up to him, we suggested a couple of things, like the lounge pit, but would’ve trusted him if he thought they wouldn’t work. A lot of the design came from the site's building envelope allowances, being commercial meant we could build right to the boundaries and being very public meant we’d need some privacy, hence the wall.

While many of us rediscovered the joys of our home over lockdown, we also found out its limits.

Is there anything you might have changed about this design? Not at the time we built. However, we now have a poorly thought out (and way too big) apartment building going up next door, and we’ve had to reconsider how to make the place feel private again. We now have a plan in for resource consent to raise the height of the middle courtyard wall. Another thing we would’ve liked but wasn’t within our budget was a roof terrace, we are looking at building a small B&B out the back, over our carport, which will have one, so we’ll be able to catch a sunset occasionally once that’s built.

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Tell me about the difference in feeling between looking at your home from the outside, versus being inside and experiencing the space? It’s like the Tardis.

It’s only around 140-metres-square but feels much bigger as the outdoor spaces act as rooms too with the walls which run through from inside to out defining the spaces.

For many Kiwis, living and working from home under lockdown was a new experience, but creative people are pretty used to this setup. We might need new ways of thinking about the places we call home given how Covid-19 continues to change things.

What would be your advice for designing spaces that balance family and work needs? People who know me will laugh at me if I answer this, I’m not someone anyone would come to for work advise, I could give you some tips on how to avoid it... But in my mind that probably means the work life balance is pretty good. I make art because I like doing it I do a couple of other things to make money, and I’m at home a lot. I guess my advise would be to work as little as possible and do what’s good for yourself and those around you as much as possible.

How’s business with the coffee hatch? What propelled you to include a little business venture in your home? The coffee is free nowadays and just for art customers. It wasn’t viable as a business (we don’t have enough foot traffic) and was taking too much of my time away from drawing. But it’s great to have that little outdoor cafe space.

Houses built around courtyard living aren’t all that common in NZ, but what are the advantages that you see in this form? I think it has potential to make house design much more interesting, it creates more defined areas outside and it’s great for privacy (unless you live next door to a greedy developer who builds apartments which use your courtyard as their outlook).

I read that this has been described as “a suburban house turned inside out”, can you tell us about that?

I think they just mean that drunk people pee on our wall sometimes (I’m joking). The spaces are swapped over, where you’d normally have lawn surrounding a house we have house surrounding a lawn.

Increasingly our towns and cities are moving towards medium or high-density housing, maximising living spaces on smaller sites. What are your tips for anyone looking to build in a way that is functional but not dull? I think a lot more people would like to live closer to town centres, but council design restrictions mean it’s difficult, especially to step outside the norm. We got in just in time before we wouldn’t have been able to build the way we did as they changed the district plan to apartments only. I also think architects should be allowed more leeway, they do a lot of training and in my estimation know a lot more about what will work than the rules set up by local government especially when they include laughable historical facade policies, which ensures new buildings look like a terrible pastiche of the past.

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HOME & DESIGN

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Colette Slingback Shoe St Agni

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Slide these buttery-soft leather slingback shoes onto your feet and start your day in comfort and style. The Colette shoe from St Agni is effortlessly chic, and features a streamlined, square toe silhouette.

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Designed to balance maximum comfort with minimum space, this chair from Bauhaus is a functional yet impressive piece of furniture to suit any needs. Made from a bio-composite material with up to 25% wood fibres.

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A fully lined blazer made from the finest linen and cotton is the perfect staple for your spring wardrobe. & Other Stories have incorporated this fully lined Matcha coloured blazer into their collection to bring a light and sophisticated piece of clothing for you to wear with confidence.

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Belgian Linen Washed Duvet Cover Set George Street Linen Crafted from 100% fine Belgian flax, this duvet cover from George Street Linen will allow you to sleep in the comfort and luxury of exquisite linen. Perfect for all-year-round, linen is beautiful and light, and is breathable which keeps you cool in summer and warm in the winter.

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Converse started with bottles, then denim―now they're transforming waste cotton into a twisted take on their iconic Chucks. Made from about 30% to 40% manufacturing waste canvas and regrind rubber, the recycling process creates a texture unique to Renew.

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Percy Oak Sideboard Alex & Corban

Make a statement in your home with this rug from Cold Picnic’s Neo Noir collection. Made from 80% New Zealand wool and 20% nylon, this rug is suitable for high foot traffic and provides endless durability.

This wonderful abstract design allows your space to come alive and to also provide a comfortable addition to any flooring.

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Solid Oak Sideboard with oak veneers and engineered mitred joints, high-quality hardware and sculpted black timber legs. Opens up to internal shelving, ideal for storing tableware, glassware, or whatever you need!

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Zip Bucket Bag Mansur Gavriel The Zip Bucket Bag is made from supple pebble grained calf leather and finished with a bow zip puller for easy closure. Lined with quality Italian canvas and a convenient interior pocket, the new silhouette is soft, durable, and lightweight for effortless versatility.

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HOME & DESIGN

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Covid-19 Lockdown Creates Demand at Rawhiti Estate Rawhiti Estate, the boutique retirement village in the heart of Remuera, reports a marked increase in enquiry for accommodation because of the Coronavirus lockdowns.

As Rawhiti general manager, Helen Martelli reports: “I think a lot of older people, who were living by themselves, never felt more alone or lonely than during those long weeks of the first lockdown. Since then, we are seeing a lot of interest in living in our village, where you are never short of company.”

In fact, Rawhiti is filling fast, as explained by head of sales, Angus McPhee: “All of our one-bedroom Care Suites are taken, all the threebedroom Independent Living apartments are occupied, as are all our Dementia units. We have some

two-bedroom Independent Living apartments available although even two of those are close to being sold.”

Rawhiti enhanced its reputation during lockdown as a place that offers the best in care for its residents, whilst at the same time respecting people’s right to live the life they want to live.

a husband in battle, you can cope with a virus.”

So life went on, pretty much as usual.

“Freedom of spirit, and freedom every day, that’s what we strive for,” adds Helen.

During lockdown, the residents could still use a lot of the Rawhiti amenities, including the library and lounges, and the restaurant.

Visitors had to be limited but the residents all coped remarkably well. A lifetime of experiences had prepared them well for a global pandemic.

As one of the residents was quoted as saying: “When you have lived through a depression and a world war, and lost

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Photography—Ministry Of Architecture

I’m done with the garden.

I’ve thrown in the trowel.

OUT THE DOOR

Beam Side Table Ariake

Kleek Easy Chair ZD Studios

This small sculptural side table is about the beam holding the tabletop and the details created by the cut line. Showing the quality of Ariake artisans.

The Kleek easy chair with ottoman is a supremely comfortable arrangement which celebrates modern and timeless design.

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HK Atelier Vierkant

Collection of outdoor bollard and wall lights for a diffuse lighting beam. Made of extruded and diecast aluminium or stainless steel, available in two heights .

This range of clay pots crafted in Belgium exhibit the highest standards of chromatic consistency, durability, and resistance to UV rays, humidity and frost.

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ushroom Side Table Mushroom Alentes

Elio Yabu Pushelberg

Minimalistic and sculptural, these objects can be used as occasional or end tables, in pairs or alone. The warm tones of the material combined with the gentle curves of its form make it a perfect fit for both classic and modern settings.

Elio, referring to the Greek sun God Helios. It is characterized by a softly rounded silhouette that draws inwards to create a cocoon effect.

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HOME & DESIGN

Rust Never Sleeps I spent last weekend in Waiheke. The weather was absolutely amazing – so good we had to be out in the sunshine – walking the beach, rustic pathways, and quieter back roads. I have always loved walking in places that I visit – one gets to see so much more compared to when rushing past in a vehicle.

Something I love to look at are homes, buildings and architecture in general, and in Waiheke there are so many examples of great design, my walking experience was a total pleasure.

I have many favourite materials: stone, concrete, glass, and love how corten steel is being used for so much these days such as for sculpture, doors, and walls. With its characteristic weathered rusty orange look, it is easy to spot.

And the good news is that Resene has made it easy for home enthusiasts (like myself) to create that corten look – as a while ago their technical team came up with a coating that is designed to rust.

Called Resene FX Faux Rust Effect, it is a waterborne coating used to create a rust style effect on exterior and interior surfaces. Once applied, it looks like rust, a look that will continue to develop as the coating ages. Leave it as is or protect it with a clear finish of diluted Resene Waterborne Aquapel. It’s best used in non-contact areas.

Don’t forget to work on a sample area first, applying two coats of Resene FX Faux Rust Effect basecoat then two coats of the Resene FX Faux Rust Effect Activator to set off the rusting effect.

The colour intensity and variation of the rust effect depends on the application method. The sooner the activator is applied after the basecoat is tacky, the deeper the rust effect.

Needless to say – I have already starting looking out for ways to use this for my next weekend project.

WO R D S – F R AN N I N OW

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HOME & DESIGN

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PUTTING STOCK IN POSITIVITY Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I think cooking in itself is an act of optimism,” says Auckland cookbook author Nicole Stock. “You open a cookbook or your pantry, and kind of take a little bit of a risk, a step into the unknown, with the intent of making something delicious that's going to feed you. I think that should be really celebrated, even if it's just a grilled cheese sandwich.”

OCTOBER 2020

So, it’s only fitting then that such an upbeat attitude has resulted in an equally upbeat cookery tome titled Cooking for Optimists, whose hook, aside from top notch recipes, is that it’s a rip-roaring, picture-free read more akin to a novel than a traditional cookbook. Inspired by the early “evocative” writings of Nigella Lawson during her How to Eat period before she became a “saucy TV star”, Nicole set about capturing the joys of discovering new scents, sounds and textures in the kitchen. She deliberates on the processes, the aromas, occasions, the raw emotions, and the raw tastes, while eliminating the oft-unattainable, photoshopped-for-Instagram imagery that graces the pages of many a modern-day cookery book. I ask if the dearth of pictures also removes the pressure on those looking to recreate the recipes.

How do you come up with recipes?

“It’s almost ironic that I wrote a recipe book, because I’m not that great at following recipes myself, even though I love reading them. They kind of lodge in my mind and then I’ll riff on something, and then over time you kind of develop an innate sense of what goes together and the methods that work.”

“I think that’s exactly right,” she says. “If there are no photos, there is nothing to compare against, to know if you’ve completely messed it up or not. It does free people up to try things out a little more.”

The family travelled widely, too.

Nicole describes Cooking for Optimists as a “slow burn” that lures readers in and has them more enthralled the more they engage, then often recommended through wordof-mouth.

Do people send you pictures of their creations?

“Actually, yes. I’ve had pictures of pastas and biscuits and chicken soups and all sorts of things. It’s really wonderful— and a little terrifying—to see that people are cooking from it, but it’s all good so far.”

How did you come to fall in love with cooking?

“It was always a big part of my family growing up, and when we were teenagers, my mum instigated a oncea-week kind of rota for us. That was the first time that there was this expectation to put a proper meal together and to get it on the table at the right time. I always really enjoyed that.”

“When I was a baby, we lived in the Philippines, then I grew up in in Reno, Nevada, of all places, which is hardly a food hotspot—aside from being a mecca of the buffet!” says the author. “Then when I was a teenager, we went back to the Philippines. My parents were really big travellers and loved taking us to destinations around the world. Food serves as such an amazing connection to those different places and cultures, and I was very fortunate to have been exposed to so much of that.”

Having studied architecture, I wonder if Nicole’s design background also informs her culinary approach.

Nicole began the project over 10 years ago, while she was editor of Urbis magazine, as a kind of sporadic food diary, “noting down what worked with no real intention of anything”. “Then, one day I realised I had 50,000 words which was basically a book and I started to think about it a bit more intentionally.”

Presumably, you could have continued indefinitely, what encouraged you to decide the time was right to publish?

“Probably the biggest push was my husband who was sick of me constantly editing this secret thing and not doing anything with it! That was a good incentive to get serious about it. Because yes, you could just keep going for ever and ever.”

Nicole says that her architect hubby Henri Sayes, of Sayes Studio, often unwittingly served as her head taster.

“Henri’s wonderfully supportive, but he’s not really a foodie, he’s not going to give me feedback on flavour profiles or anything complex,” she says. “His main concern is whether or not it is delicious. It’s good to have that point of view.”

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FOOD & WINE My parents were really big travellers and loved taking us to destinations around the world. Food serves as such an amazing connection to those different places and cultures, and I was very fortunate to have been exposed to so much of that.

“That’s interesting, but I’ve never really thought about it.

Perhaps subconsciously, as good design and good food are both about balancing elements, whether it be flavours or proportions. There probably are a lot similarities, but it’s not something I knowingly consider day to day.”

Though published in 2019, Cooking for Optimists is a fitting theme for these challenging times—and especially relevant considering so many have now taken to improving the likes of their culinary or gardening skills.

“It’s been such a difficult year, and though, say, baking something, isn’t going to make the world better, it will make you feel a little bit better,” says Nicole. “It offers a sense of control, a sense of achievement. Cooking something delicious to feed your family is rewarding, and it’s something really important that we should be proud of right now. In a small, but full way, it contributes to how we stay optimistic.”

T O M AT O TA M A R I N D S A L A D • • • • • • • •

500g tomatoes – various varieties if possible 1 tablespoon tamarind concentrate ½ inch ginger, sliced very finely, then into thin battons greens of 1 spring onion, cut on a sharp diagonal ¼ teaspoon salt pepper 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon olive oil

Combine oils with tamarind, salt, pepper and ginger.

Toss carefully through sliced and quartered tomatoes.

Toss with green onions. Leave flavours to imbue for 30 minutes, then serve.

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SWEET CHILLI LAMB • • • • • • • • •

Serves 2

¼ cup sweet chilli sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce 2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 1 cup leftover roast lamb, or 200g of raw lamb handful of coriander, chopped 1 spring onion, sliced finely.

1 teaspoon rice bran oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil.

Sweet chilli feels a little like a guilty secret in the kitchen. Cookbooks rarely mention it like a bottle of the stuff is somehow déclassé, passed over for freshly chopped chilli or substituted for fashionable Sriracha. And yet, we all have it sitting there. It is the perfect combination of sweet heat that, in this dish, thrown together with leftover lamb, caramelises into something sublime and sticky. It tastes as though it should be complicated, a bevy of garlic and ginger and sauces and flavourings, but even if you leave everything out but the sweet chilli sauce, this will still be nuanced and delicious. While ideal for leftovers, it is so good that you will want to make it even when you need to buy the lamb specially.

Mix all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl. Heat ricebran oil in a heavy pan over med-high heat. When hot, add the lamb and fry for a minute until the surfaces have greyed off and are starting to brown. Add half the sauce, let it bubble and reduce around the lamb, toss the lamb in this so it cooks some more. Once the sauce is threatening to really stick to the bottom, toss in the second lot of sauce and let the lamb cook for another two minutes or so. Just before turning out, stir through the sesame oil, coriander and spring onions (saving a few to garnish) then serve over rice.

FOOD & WINE

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Mission Bay’s Destination Gastropubs Mission Bay boasts a beautiful white sandy beach, a picturesque fountain and a beachside reserve the length of the bay. With myriad ice-cream shops, eateries and even a cinema available at arm’s length from its sandy shores, one would hardly expect, nor need, any other excuse to visit. But there are…

Mission Bay also houses two of Auckland’s best gastropubs. Standing proud, either side of Mission Bay’s main T-junction onto Patteson Ave are two gastropub experiences that couldn’t be more different. On one side De Fontein offers the traditional Belgian experience with bespoke imported Belgian ale, whilst on the other Good George offers a chillaxed Kiwi experience with a selection of home brews from Waikato.

De Fontein is a family-friendly gastro pub that caters for families, corporates, tourists and of course, the Mission Bay locals. It plays host to many functions and is an easily adaptable space spanning two floors, with balcony and street-side dining.

The interior design is inspired by 1930s Belgium – from between the first and second world wars. So if you feel like escaping to Europe, De Fontein is the place to go with its interior entirely imported from Belgium. The stools, bar tops, lights and memorabilia throughout the space all work together to create a quintessential Belgian bar experience for all who venture in.

Food-wise, De Fontein is renowned for its mussels and frites, fresher than anything you’ll find elsewhere (the restaurant goes through 800-1,000kg of mussels per week). They cater to vegetarians, pescatarians, vegans and those who are gluten free. When it comes to beverages, they are the gold standard for serving Stella Artois, selling the most in New Zealand. They are one of only three bars in the country that serve ale air-freighted from Belgium – no easy task during recent events. Their staff are as passionate about Belgian beer as they are about creating a joyful and memorial experience for their patrons – with two employees ranking

Current Page Top: Platters from De Fontein Bottom: Dessert from De Fontein.

Opposite Page Top: Inside Good George.

Bottom: Beer and pizza from Good George.

OCTOBER 2020

Mission Bay also houses two of Auckland’s best gastropubs. Standing proud, either side of Mission Bay’s main T-junction onto Patteson Ave are two gastropub experiences that couldn’t be more different.

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as top Draft Masters globally, and one holding the world championship, you know when it comes to a satisfyingly good beer, you’re in good hands.

Good George is located on the upper floor directly across from De Fontein.

With a hard-to-miss rainbow staircase inviting punters up from the beach, Good George is an easy-going craft beer brew bar. Anyone with a curiosity for craft beer will be well satisfied with the selection available at Good George – they have 18 craft beers and ciders on-tap, all brewed in Waikato, as well as limited edition and seasonal beers such as passionfruit IPA and sours. They also make their own gin, have a whisky in the pipeline and make great cider slushies during summer hours.

The menu is well adapted to suit our Kiwi palettes, notably the George & Cheese Burger with a side of chips (seriously good), and the prawn and pork salad.

Good George has everything you would want from a contemporary seaside pub.

Its down-to-earth vibe is enhanced with

De Fontein 77 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay (09) 578 3327 Opening Hours Weekdays: 11am – Late Weekends: 9am– Late

weekly rituals and rolling events such as quiz nights and an acoustic guitar set on Sundays. Well worth the visit, it caters to everyone.

Now that daylight savings is upon us, it’s time to take the scenic 10-minute drive from the CBD to Mission Bay. No matter what the weather you can be rest assured, your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Good George 71 Tamaki Drive (upstairs), Mission Bay (09) 974 0006 Opening Hours Weekdays: 11:30am – Late Weekends: 11am – Late

Both venues have free parking out the back. Go to missionbay. co.nz/free-parking for details.

FOOD & WINE

Signature Tea At Its Finest We sit down with marketing manager of Gong Cha, SJ Liaw, to discuss all things business and tea.

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What does ‘Gong Cha’ mean and where was it founded? 'Gong cha' in Chinese means to offer the best tea to the emperor from all possessions. It represents the highest quality and selfexpectation. Gong cha was founded in Kaohsiung city, Taiwan in 2006.

How many stores are there in NZ? We currently have 20 stores in New Zealand, and we’ve scheduled one more to be opened during the Christmas period. That will make it 21 stores in total by the end of 2020.

We just celebrated our fifth-year anniversary in August.

What is your favourite item on the menu? My personal favourite would be the QQ passionfruit green tea which includes coconut jelly and pearls as a combo. It’s sweet, refreshing and a real thirst-quencher. The toppings add texture to the drink too, making it an enjoyable experience every time I crave tea.

There’s a lot of variety on the menu, what are the most popular combinations? With around 60 drinks and 13 toppings on our main menu, there’s definitely a lot to choose from.

Our staff all-time favourites include the peach green tea with aloe vera, the pearl milk tea with pudding jelly and the taro milk drink with pearls.

I personally also like to add our signature milk foam onto any of the

drinks from the milk tea series, like our pearl milk tea or chocolate milk drink.

The milk foam enhances the taste and makes the drink even creamier!

or grass jelly – it’s very popular in milk teas too. Ai-Yu jelly is a refreshing slightly sweet jelly, it’s perfect for your fruity flavours.

Our signature milk foam is unique with its rich, salted creamy taste.

On each signature milk foam drink you can see that it mixes well with the tea. Our signature milk foam is made of fresh milk and a secret recipe. It doesn’t contain cheese.

What has been your biggest reward from the business? One of our biggest brand milestones has been witnessing more and more people enjoying bubble tea every day. It’s been amazing to see the growth of our brand even though it definitely has not been an easy journey, especially during this Covid period. Thankfully, due to our dedicated fan-base, we’ve been able to pull through during this tough time which we really have to thank all our Gong Cha family for.

This year we’re celebrating our fifth anniversary with our 20th shop by October. We hope to open our 21st store by Christmas which will be a perfect way to welcome 2021.

Here are three ways to enjoy our milk foam: 1. Sip the freshly brewed tea through the milk foam without a straw.

2. Slurp some tea followed by the milk form through the straw for a smooth taste.

3. Stir both layers for a perfect blend of milky foam and aromatic tea.

What are the pearls and jellies? And which of the drinks do they suit best?

Pearls are made from tapioca starch; in some countries they like to call it boba or bubbles. They take over an hour to prepare and are flavoured with brown sugar. Pearls can be added to any drink, and suits every flavour. We also offer three different types of jelly, these are: pudding jelly, herbal jelly and ai-yu jelly. Pudding jelly is one of the best sellers and matches well with classic milk tea and taro milk drink. The herbal jelly is quite a unique flavour that is based on the Chinese ‘Gui Ling Gao’

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For any of our readers who haven’t yet tried Gong Cha, what would you recommend? Definitely try our signature milk foam, classic milk tea with pearl, QQ passionfruit green tea, and the peach or grapefruit green tea with pulp.

In addition, try out seasonal launch — the Crème Brûlée series.

Our Favourite Butcheries WO R D S — BEL L A SAM P S O N

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Butchers offer regionally sourced fresh meats, with cuts and range you just can’t find in the supermarkets. Plus, it’s always good to support community businesses.

Whether you’re looking for a good local, want to put on a brilliant barbecue, or to treat yourself with a restaurant-grade meal – here are Auckland’s best butcheries...

ELLERSLIE MEATS 128D Main Highway, Ellerslie Ellerslie Meats is hard to miss with its gold and forest green exterior. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of products and friendly yet knowledgeable staff. Specialising in organic beef, chicken, lamb, rabbit and venison as well as award winning gluten free sausages, mānuka smoked bacon and ham. Their motto is ‘taste the difference’ and from their plethora of gold grade awards, we can see why.

GREY LYNN BUTCHER 531 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn Grey Lynn Butcher has been a treasure for over 50 years now. Specialising in the harderto-find meats like rabbit, ostrich, wild pork and venison, in addition to trusty staples such as beef, chicken, turkey and pork. All of their meat is free-farmed and sourced locally.

Current owners Lucia and Eddie have a motto ‘bringing your old school local butcher back’, which they’ve done with style. In 2007, the pair took on much needed renovations and revived the store to its current glory. Since then, they’ve scored titles such as the best bacon in Auckland for their mānuka smoked, honey-cured bacon. They’ve also scored bronze and silver medals in many New Zealand meat competitions.

SAINT JOHN’S BUTCHERY 113-117 Felton Matthew Ave, Saint John’s Saint John’s Butchery is treasured both by locals and the greater Auckland region.

With their award-winning free-range meats and competitive prices; we can see why.

They also stock a variety of grocery items alongside harder to find meats like duck, pheasant, venison, kangaroo and rabbit. The team are approachable and well informed about their products. As an added bonus, on the rare chance they don’t stock what you’re looking for, they’re happy to hear requests.

WESTMERE BUTCHERY 131 West End Road, Westmere Westmere Butchery go above and beyond when it comes to services and products.

They cure and smoke their bacon onsite and make their own marinades for some of the meats with clear cooking instructions. Their steaks are vacuum packed, to ensure a tender juicy end product. Plus, they stock hard-tofind UK and South African speciality products like biltong, boerewors sausages, Cornish pasties, haggis, pork pies, black pudding, white pudding, pork pies and much more.

Conveniently, they offer delivery or the option to order online then pick-up in store.

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The Wine Rack In New Zealand there is one name above all others that is revered for its contribution to the wine industry. That name is Villa Maria, long associated with premium wines and one of our most awarded wineries with a wide range of labels and wine styles. No surprises why the winery continues to dominate the market here and abroad.

From all the varietals produced by the winery there is one that will always appeal as their shining light. Made from green skinned grapes, the wine's trademark characteristics are crispness, intensity and distinctive aromas. Add fresh tropical citrus flavours with a long and dry finish, combined with soft layers of acidity, and there you have it sauvignon blanc, one of our most elegant and classy favourites.

As a wine producing nation we produce some incredible sauvignon blanc. Even for the novice winemaker it’s hard to get it wrong. If $15 is your total spend you will not only be spoiled for choice but amazed at the quality inside the bottle.

Finding the perfect selection can be a challenge, so here is my selection from Villa Maria’s latest releases that are sure to please.

WO RD S —DENNI S KN I L L Wine lover and writer extraordinaire

‘19 Villa Maria Clifford Bay Sauvignon blanc $25 Crisp and dry with lots of fresh concentrated vibrant fruity flavours make this a well-balanced and easy drinking wine. Great buying at this price. ’19 Vidal Estate Reserve Marlborough Sauvignon blanc $20 Fruit driven and intense on the nose with generous acidity and mineral characteristics make this a perfect match for a wide range of foods. ’19 Thornbury Marlborough Sauvignon blanc $15 Satisfying tropical fruit with a subtle long and clean finish this relatively flavoursome example will work well at the dinner table. A real crowd pleaser at this price.

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The Naked French Chef The Naked French Chef has been a French chef for over 15 years with a deep passion for food and wine. Guillaume says cooking is the opportunity to gather everyone and share unforgettable moments.

Guillaume's uniform, shirtless with an apron, is a sign of confidence. He can cook half-naked or not. The choice is up to you!

Guillaume is committed to being transparent about the food he serves and uses seasonal and sustainable products, by working only with local suppliers.

This is perfect for fine dining dinners, catering, girls’ nights, hen’s parties, etc...

020 4082 5841 thenakedfrenchchef.com @ thenakedfrenchchef

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Framing A

Fairer Future

As a portrait photographer, the originality of your vision or knack for nailing the best angles are rendered almost irrelevant if coupled with an inability to put your subjects at ease. Such interpersonal skills Sydney-based Kiwi snapper Simon Lister has in spades—even when proving apparently impossible to pin down for an interview he is endearingly evasive.

There’s an intimacy and soulfulness to Simon’s imagery that betrays his inherent optimism and upon further prodding it soon becomes clear that he really is very much in love with the world—even if, paradoxically, he has filmed and photographed some of its more dire aspects.

Simon is the creative director at Squeak E Clean, a sound and music studio that straddles some of the world’s hippest hubs (New York, Chicago, Melbourne, LA and Sydney) creating content for everything from global brand advertising campaigns to feature films whilst working with royalty of the real and Hollywood kinds. In his spare time, Simon works as a photographer and filmmaker for Unicef and the United Nations, and has, in the days prior to our chat, been putting the finishing touches to a five-and-a-half-minute film in honour of the UN’s 75th anniversary. The film, Shaping Our Future Together, was last month broadcast to world leaders at the general assembly (and can be viewed on YouTube), covering everything from global warming to refugee crises, and conflicts to coronavirus.

“It was something of an odd process, because of Covid-19 we had to use stock footage from Getty and the UN, and I also reached out to a bunch of well-known photographers to supply imagery to create the storyline,” says Simon. “It’s a very moving, powerful film. I’ve been told that they haven’t had

one like this play at the United Nations before.

Hopefully, by the time the organisation turns 100 we’ll have come a long way in solving many of the issues covered.”

Shining A Light Verve readers may recognise the photographer from the excellent Netflix documentary series Tales by Light [season 3, episode 1: ‘Children in Need’] in which he stars alongside actor and Unicef ambassador Orlando Bloom, highlighting child labour in Bangladesh. As harrowing as many of the scenes are (think youngsters carrying heavy industrial loads, sifting through rubbish dumps, and toiling in backstreet factories thick with toxic fumes), Simon still manages to capture a sense of hope and innocence, most notably when covering the kids at play or in their rudimentary educational facilities.

“Unicef didn’t just want depressing photographs of children covered in flies,” says Simon. “We wanted to capture their beauty, even in such hostile environments. Whether they’re swinging from a jungle gym or a burnt-out tank, kids are still kids, they’re still adventurous and they still want to be naughty and have fun. I love going to these places because of the hearts of these people. It’s very much community-based and although their situations are grim, the children all have each other, and hopefully get to go to school.”

ART & ABOUT Is it difficult adjusting back to regular life afterwards? “It is interesting what it does to your mind, I think that there are different stress levels. I definitely come back with a freer mind, it sort of opens up your emotional levels in a different way. I use these trips as a way of getting away from the noise, of being at one with humanity, whatever form that may take. I just love exploring different countries and cultures, I love the rawness and simplicity of life.”

Did you find it awkward being on the other side of the camera for the Netflix documentary? “Yes, I did! It’s really hard to even walk naturally, let alone string coherent sentences together without stopping between lines. I do try to build my confidence up for this sort of thing by doing talks and conferences about photography, but you do become very self-conscious when the camera’s rolling—and it doesn’t help that there’s this world-famous actor beside you!”

With so many in the country without TVs, Simon says that Orlando Bloom seemed to enjoy the spells of anonymity, though there would be a band of fans outside the hotel each night waiting for him to sign their Lord of the Rings dolls. I ask if they connected over their mutual connection with Middle-earth.

“Definitely, he loves New Zealand and loved that whole experience which obviously made him a bit of rock star. We had plenty of opportunity to share stories over breakfast and dinner and in the car.”

Taking Shape Simon’s childhood could barely have been more contrasting to those of the Bangladeshi kids; a picture-perfect Kiwi upbringing on a

Waikato farm surrounded by goats, chickens, horses, pigs, and cows, and clearly much love and security.

and Morocco to pursue his passion for photography. In 2016, his work caught the attention of Unicef.

“Looking back, my whole career path has definitely been taken from my father,” he says. “He loved music and motorbikes and always had a camera and so I’d hop on to that. I also learnt to play the piano at a very young age.”

“As an organisation, they were looking to rebrand globally, and took me on as their brand photographer and filmmaker, which was obviously pretty cool,” he beams. “I did a TV commercial for them that was even shared by David Beckham on Facebook, which alone got 10 million views in two days!”

Upon finishing school, Simon yearned to be a cameraman for TVNZ and headed to Wellington to apply; they didn’t have anything but directed him towards a spot at Radio New Zealand: “I was on the Kim Hill show a few weeks back, and that’s where I started off 33 years ago! I learnt so much there in just a year-and-a-half, then went to Marmalade Recording Studios where I spent a further six years. That was an amazing period, arriving just after the likes of Dave Dobbyn recording ‘Slice of Heaven’, as well as being around while projects with Netherworld Dancing Toys, Herbs and Annie Crummer were being produced, all recording in the main studio next door, while I was in the TVC commercial studio. Such a great environment of music culture to be around.”

Alongside the commercial work, Simon recorded for agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi and also met his wife-to-be, then moved up to her home city here in Auckland. A short time later they relocated to Sydney where Simon founded what would become Squeak E Clean. He’s been across the ditch for 23 years, and for around half that time has also made regular trips—usually on the back of dirt bike—to off-the-beaten track spots in far-flung destinations such as Mongolia, Myanmar, Mexico, India, the Himalayas,

The ad was translated into six languages with voiceovers by the likes of Liam Neeson, Shakira and Queen Rania of Jordan.

“We need to be aware of what’s going on in the world, and what we can do to help,” says Simon. “Me just picking up a camera and taking photographs and telling stories can help make an impact and help change people’s lives.”

Going forward, Simon hopes to dedicate more of his time to making documentaries.

“I’m really appreciative that the music side of my life provides stability and helps fund these trips,” he says. “For organisations like Unicef, many of the trips are done through passion. It’s my passion to take photographs and if there are stories to tell, then I want to film them.”

Simon lets out a chuckle when I ask if he’s got a taste for being in front of the camera now. “Somebody needs to explain what’s going on!” he says. “But I’m not sure yet. I haven’t scoped that one out so much, but I certainly have some ideas for next year as soon as we can start flying again.”

WO R D S JAM IE C H R ISTIAN D ES P L AC ES

OCTOBER 2020

We need to be aware of what’s going on in the world, and what we can do to help. Me just picking up a camera and taking photographs and telling stories can help make an impact and help change people’s lives.

THE ART OF

This month artists who capture the enigmatic or offer a glimpse of something a little less tangible gets us back out to galleries. From milky surfaces to hypnotic blotches, a meditation on life and disrupted ecologies, October’s exhibitions extend the opportunity to loose ourselves in mysterious surfaces and rich narratives. These artworks are not just escapism but also offer a way to gain perspective and connect with something larger.

Gemma Smith, Thin Air, 2020. Courtesy of the artist and Starkwhite.

Gemma Smith Thin Air 6 October – 7 November Starkwhite, starkwhite.co.nz

Henrietta Harris Burn for the Moon 14 October – 7 November Melanie Roger Gallery, melanierogergallery.com

OCTOBER

Presenting new work from her ongoing Threshold series, the Australian artist’s near-monochrome paintings offer an airy, purified world. At first glance the paintings appear pearly white and devoid of any hue, but closer looking reveals they are ever so gently tinted by soft and ambiguous shifts in tone. Against these pale backgrounds a suggestion of colour emerges, a mesmerising hint of soft petal-pink, wispy green, or pale straw. The works are so subtle that “it takes time and physical proximity to see them properly” Gemma Smith explains. A welcome antidote to a world growing tired of digitally mediated encounters so get up close.

Henrietta Harris makes beautiful paintings underpinned by psychological intensity. This latest body of work explores her interest in extended adolescence, youth and mortality through a series of portraits of enigmatic characters. Captured as if caught in a fleeting moment, each painting offers little backstory but instead engages and encourages the viewer to construct their own narrative – a Bildungsroman of sorts – and imagine the psychological and moral growth of a group of characters, from his or her youth to adulthood. Look deeply at Harris’ use of light and shade as well as her skill at portraying smatterings of captivating freckles.

Joyce Campbell On the Last Afternoon: Disrupted Ecologies and the Work of Joyce Campbell Until 22 November Te Uru, teuru.org.nz

Joyce Campbell’s striking exhibition brings together nearly three decades of her practice. Drawing on 19th century photography techniques and analogue processes her images have extraordinary detail, richness, and texture, allowing them move from simply images to mediums able to capture the depth and emotion of biological and metaphysical forces. Shifting scale from the microscopic to the global, this body of work across photography and video gives visible form to the beauty, complexity and sheer perseverance of life under threat.

Kiran McKinnon Floodlines Artist conversation 1pm, 18 October 6 October – 1 November Northart, northart.co.nz Kiran McKinnon, Floodlines (detail) 2020. Courtesy of the artist and Northart.

Given our bodies are up to 60% water it seems a fascination with, and deep connection to, water is an intrinsic part of being human. Water as both medium and subject are important aspects of Kiran McKinnon’s work. Standing in front of her large canvases can be an immersive and beguiling experience, her painterly surfaces dappled, blotched and weathered from the application of watercolour, acrylic, and quantities of water from natural sources throughout New Zealand. This body of work engages with experience and memory, particularly of the sensations of the natural world, to produce paintings that mimic ephemeral processes.

Artweek Auckland 10 – 18 October artweekauckland.co.nz This annual, week-long festival celebrating the visual arts of Auckland returns with a great lineup of exhibitions, events, tours, and workshops right across Auckland and catering for every age and taste. Join a walking or cycling tour of different art precincts, enjoy an evening out with other culture lovers while galleries are open late, or take part in ‘Death Drawing’, a drawing experience like no other, at Highwic, Auckland's favourite gothic mansion. Most activities free, check website.

Henrietta Harris, Untitled (Burn for the Moon). Courtesy of the artist and Melanie Roger Gallery.

WO R D S —AI M É E RALF I N I

What’s on in October WORD S – NADIA KL AAS SE N

6 October

7pm – 9pm Studio One Toi Tū, 1 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland

3-18 October

The Civic, Cnr Queen & Wellesley Streets, CBD, Auckland

5 October

9:30am – 11:30am Birkenhead Library and Civic Centre, Nell Fischer Reserve, Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead

Acrylic Pouring – Flower Technique

Acrylic pouring is a wonderful artform that makes a strong statement on any page. Come along and join this workshop at Studio One to create two, one-of-a-kind paintings – if you’re looking to get a bit creative while having fun, then this is for you! Spend the two-hour course learning skills in acrylic pouring, including the Flower Technique to create cell formation.

No prior experience is needed.

Mary Poppins the Broadway Musical

The supercalifragilistic musical is flying in to Auckland this October at The Civic, and it is a show that cannot be missed.

With huge musical numbers, dancing trees, and plenty of flying, this is a show for the whole family to enjoy. Follow the story of Mary Poppins, who brings order to the Banks household, takes Jane and Michael out on magical adventures, and gives plenty of advice.

8 October

Book Chat at Birkenhead Library

For all the keen readers out there that want to talk about their favourite books, the Birkenhead Library book chat provides just that. Come along to join lively discussions about books, and find new books from the selection provided.

Meetings are on the first Monday of every month, so come along to the October meeting!

7pm – 11pm ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey Street CBD, Auckland

Women in Film and Television New Zealand Awards

The WIFT NZ Awards joyfully celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in all aspects of the New Zealand screen industry, from women to watch to unsung heroines. The event is an upbeat night of celebration, and brings the community together to reconnect and support each other in such an uncertain time.

Celebrate women on NZ screens at the ASB Waterfront Theatre, you won’t want to miss out!

18 October

10 October onwards

2pm – 4:30pm Chancery Square, Chancery St, CBD, Auckland

Goodside, 72 Taharoto Road, Smales Farm, Auckland

Shop everything botanical all in one spot with indoor and outdoor plants, pots, macramé, plant based skincare, art and jewellery and much more. Held at the Goodside in Smales Farm, the venue has over 2,000 free carparks, and is close by to the bus station so it is super easy to get to. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries that Goodside has to offer, grab a coffee along the way, and enjoy browsing the many luscious plants that are on sale whilst listening to some live music.

22 October

The Shows Must Go On

Sweet As – Dessert Tour

Take a 2.5-hour walking tour though Auckland CBD as an afternoon treat, and be greeted with multiple delectable desserts as you make your way around the city. From sublime chocolate, to refreshing gelato, to mouth-watering sweets, your sweet tooth will be satisfied completely. Bring friends along, and find out more about the treats from your knowledgeable tour guide.

9am – 3pm

7:30pm – 9:30pm SKYCITY Theatre

24 October

17 October

Bubbles & Beauty

12:30pm – 3:30pm

Get a group of your beauty-loving friends and join the safari-style beauty event held at Gusto at The Grand. It’s your chance to ask those burning beauty questions, while you sip champagne and learn about new makeup, skincare, and much more. Enjoy a salon-style runway show and delicious Italian food, and did we mention a goodie bag valued at over $200? If you’re into hair, makeup, skincare, or just beauty in general, this event is for you.

Gusto at The Grand, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland

Auckland Plant Market

9am – 2pm Hibiscus Coast Community House, 214 – 216 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, Auckland

The Shows Must Go On features a stunning cast of New Zealand performers who have found success on the international stage.

Come together to watch an ensemble of Kiwi performers singing the greatest Broadway and West End songs on a New Zealand stage. From Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables to Hairspray, The Greatest Showman, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, there is sure to be a song that everyone can sing along to!

Pop and Rock Vinyl Record Sale

If you’re a fan of great music and the retro sound of a record player, the Pop and Rock Vinyl Record Sale in Orewa is the place to be to get your hands-on records from some of history’s most popular musicians and bands. Browse through thousands of secondhand records at unbeatable prices, from the likes of Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen, Rod Stewart, and so much more. From jazz and blues to rock and pop, there is something for everyone. With a coffee shop next door and an area for the kids to ride their bikes and skateboards, this event is perfect for the whole family.

Auckland Grammar School Foundation Trust Art House Tour 2020

ART & ABOUT

Saturday 21 November sees the return of the Auckland Grammar School Foundation Trust Art House Tour. This unique event offers ticketholders the opportunity to tour eight of Auckland’s finest homes and gardens all within the Grammar community, while at the same time viewing a wide selection of art for sale.

The Art House Tour, in association with Barfoot & Thompson, is set to delight audiences with a number of award winning local and international artists exhibiting alongside Auckland Grammar School's emerging young artists.

The event launch occurs on the evening of Friday 20 November with an exhibition from emerging student artists in the Great Hall, including the annual Student Art Awards and a live auction of an iconic work from one of the country’s leading artists. The main event, the Auckland Grammar School Foundation Trust Art House Tour, takes place between 10am-4pm on Saturday 21 November.

The Art House Tour provides event goers with a gallery viewing experience in some of Auckland’s most beautiful homes. Each home carefully curated to display selection of art from a number of artists

and each piece of work available to purchase on the day. Funds raised go towards the Auckland Grammar School Foundation Trust Academic Endowment Fund to assist the School to recruit, reward and retain the very best teachers.

Tickets for both events are limited and are available to purchase on the Auckland Grammar School website community.ags.school.nz/arthousetour2020

Auckland Grammar Foundation Trust Art House Tour Friday 20 November, 6.30pm - Art House Tour Launch Event Student Art Exhibition and Awards plus a Live Art Auction. Great Hall, Auckland Grammar School. Free to all Art House Tour ticket holders or $30 per ticket / $55 for two tickets including canapés and a drink on arrival.

Saturday 21 November, 10am-4pm Art House Tour $75 per ticket includes free entry to the Friday Launch Event.

Top: Last Twitch, Emma Bass. | Ramon Robertson.

Bottom: Annellus, Neil Donaldson. | He Minita, A Minister, Sharon Duymel.

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Conductor Holly Mathieson Presenter Simon O’Neill

7.30PM, FRIDAY 9 OCTOBER, AUCKLAND TOWN HALL

Romance, heartache, infidelity and joy Join the APO, Simon O’Neill and a cast of New Zealand’s finest opera stars for a breath-taking evening of music, from some of the most beloved operas including La bohème, Otello and Rigoletto.

1

Soprano Anna Leese Soprano Natasha Wilson Mezzo-soprano Kristin Darragh Tenor Simon O’Neill Tenor Amitai Pati Tenor Oliver Sewell

BOOK apo.co.nz

09 623 1052

ART & ABOUT RAILWAY STREET GALLERY | A PART OF ARTWEEK

Atlas Pacifica

by Prue MacDougall

15 October – 3 November 2020 Printmaker Prue MacDougall explores themes of journeying, both physically across the world and chronologically through time, and the effect such journeying has on one’s sense of identity.

Myth and reality often become blurred in the visual telling of these stories; narratives of many strange events become embroidered with retelling. Whether fact or fiction, it is the wonder of the story itself that becomes most important.

Prue’s latest body of work follows on from her successful series, Age of Exploration. The work embodies many ideas strongly linked to New Zealand around travel, sailing and people that have adapted or are still in the process of moving and adapting. At times playful and whimsical, at other times serious and introspective, she fashions these ideas into nostalgic cameos in which our present reality reconnects with the past and is re-evaluated.

Contact 8 Railway St, Newmarket 021 419 292 / railwaystreetstudios.co.nz

Atlas Pacifica

KYLIE LAW

Prue MacDougall

Kylie Law produces mixed media works with a focus on florals and the beauty of the natural environment. She is also available for commissions. kylielaw.co.nz | @kylielaw.artist | Facebook: kylielawartist

Exhibition: 15 oct – 3 Nov 2020

Railway St. Gallery

Artist Talk: Sat 17 & Sun 18 oct, 10am

8 Railway Street Newmarket Auckland 1023

TUES - SAT 10AM - 3PM

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www.railwaystreetstudios.co.nz

OCTOBER 2020

3–6 DECEMBER DA N C E R K AT E K A D O W

AOTEA CENTRE

1 1–1 2 D E C E M B E R BRUCE MASON CENTRE M U S I C P I OT R I LY I C H TC H A I KO V S K Y C H O R E O G R A P H Y M A R I U S P E T I PA S TAG I N G PAT R I C I A B A R K E R SEASON SPONSOR

BOOK NOW

SUPPORTED BY

NATIONAL TOURING PARTNER

FEATURING

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THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE AT ALL GOOD BOOKSELLERS AND CAN ALSO BE ORDERED DIRECT FROM GRAHAM’S WEBSITE COMMISSSION WORK CONSIDERED 021 104 0452 | graham.young.art@gmail.com GRAHAMYOUNGARTIST.COM

Graham’s latest book New Zealand – A Painted Journey published by New Holland Publishers features images of 47 paintings from his travels around the country in search of the uniquely interesting Kiwi places to paint. The book covers a large part of the South Island as well as some favourite spots in the North Island.

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HOROSCOPES WO R D S & I NS P IR ATIO N — MANIS H KU MAR ARORA

Libra

Aquarius

Gemini

There would be hard work all around, but it's your chance to be in the front lines where you can show yourself off.

Financial issues can depend upon your creative handling of them. There may be some opportunities coming to you through friends. Take a good vacation as the month comes to a close and don't take any chances with your finances then because they are subject to radical and sudden changes.

Now is the time to reap the rewards for something accomplished. In the second half you will be dealing with relationships, and the focus is on freedom for you. Make sure your partner knows you need to shine now.

You'll be willing to clean up your act and go out of your way to prove how honourable your intentions are just to ensure that you end up with the pleasure of their long-term company.

You are undergoing many personal transformations during this month.

Home, career, relationships, all seem to be going well and moving along at a fast pace. Your personal skills receive recognition. There can be great benefit in new financial opportunities that come your way. A soulmate helps you to make a decision that may be life-altering.

Month-end travel or expanding your social activities is on the cards.

Scorpio

Pisces

Cancer

Your earning capability is at a high this month. There may also be a need to barter or work with someone to balance finances. Your intuition, especially relative to career matters, is high. It finds you beginning to focus on a special relationship in earnest; it will either be very romantic or very combative. Either way, keep your feet on the ground, you may be beyond your depth here.

This is a time of change and growth. It is a time, for you to focus your energy on yourself. Your primary focus remains your day- to-day work, and perhaps health or healing issues may be illuminated this month. A clandestine relationship or activity may attract you. You will adjust to changes your partner or spouse is going through. You might achieve especially good results in meditation or charity during this month as well.

It is a good time to share your dreams and to make plans together with your partner for the future. Your relationship with partner is likely to be stable, but may be a drag,so plan some upscale entertainment. Your communication abilities are at a peak and will help you to get to the next step at work.

Competition is high, but you come out on top if you are patient.

Sagittarius

Aries

Leo

This is a good time for travel and also for putting time into either working at home or home projects. The month will be a good time for you to fall back on your natural diplomacy to bring about peaceful agreements and come out on top. Your ability to concentrate on the softer side of life will be somewhat diminished. You can keep your sympathies supple through all upheavals by lavishing attention on yourself.

This month is wonderful for your creativity and you find yourself doing a lot of behind the scenes work. Money tends to fluctuate, so follow a budget.

Overall though, the financial tendency should be towards increase. You're getting along well with your partner, and in fact, they are a big help in the moment. Friendships are changing and new friends can bring new opportunities for travel and social experiences.

There may be new activities or projects that take your interest. You may meet vivid or communicative people. You'll sense the opportunity to deepen a friendship or reignite a relationship. Pay attention to the clues that indicate your partner is ready to take your connection to a more intense level. You would be involved in family matters, either yours or your mate’s, and you will be required to make some decisions.

Capricorn

Taurus

Virgo

You will need to make some financial decisions, but you have to make them on instinct because you will not have all the pieces. This is an excellent month for social activities with friends or lovers. It may be your time to shine.

Friendships and romance will feature.

For the singles, there may be a new liaison. For those in a relationship, add a touch of style or diversity to social life.

You will find substantial new territories to explore. Your competitors don't stand much of a chance unless you let yourself get too distracted by the sheer volume of opportunities to pick a few and focus on them. Money should be improving this month. Work carefully to keep your relationship in balance. You should keep an eye on your pocket book though, because expenses at home may be more than you expect.

The is a great time for education and learning, and for using your communication skills to get ahead..

Your finances are looking up, and you are feeling more positive and idealistic.

You shall have a very active life with home, family and career all demanding your time and attention. It might also be a good time to move ahead with some of those major home projects you've been planning.

23 September – 22 October

23 October – 21 November

22 November -21 December

22 December – 19 January

manish@manishastrologer.com

20 January – 18 February

19 February – 20 March

21 March – 19 April

20 April – 20 May

21 May – 20 June

21 June – 22 July

23 July – 22 August

23 August – 22 September

OCTOBER 2020

Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award

Gala Prize-giving

Selector & Judge Richard Wolfe

Joe Tattesfield from Walker & Hall, Struan Hamilton, Award Winner, Clive Humphreys, Selector at the 2019 Walker & Hall Gala Award Ceremony.

Labour weekend heralds the opening of Waiheke’s most prestigious art event, the Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award. This Award which runs annually, attracts entries from all parts of New Zealand for the premier award of $5,000, a Merit Award of $1,000, and a $500 Award for a Figurative Work sponsored by The Skin Institute.

GALA AWARD CEREMONY & FUNDRAISER FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER 6PM

Gala tickets include Lucky Draw for South Sea Pearl Strand with a 9ct White Gold Clasp donated by Walker & Hall and Valued at $2,990.

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The prize winner is announced at a Gala event on Friday 23 October, where guests will enjoy wines by Casita Miro and a delicious range of spring bites. At this event one lucky ticket holder will win a strand of South Sea Pearls, valued at $2,900, courtesy of Walker & Hall.

“This exhibition is a real indicator of the diversity of contemporary two dimensional artworks, paintings, photography, works on paper, currently being created by New Zealand artists. Many prize winners have gone on to win other major awards and achieve representation at our dealer galleries”, says gallery director, Linda Chalmers.

Each year the gallery invites a different selector to review the entries and judge the Award. The 2020 selector is Richard Wolfe, New Zealand author, artist and museum curator.

Thirty-six finalists have been selected from 100 entries.

Also opening in the gallery at Labour Weekend is senior New Zealand artist Denis O’Connor, with his exhibition, Return Mail.

Denis O’Connor came to Waiheke 50 years ago, at a time when handwritten correspondence in the form of letters and postcards was pivotal to communication.

Return Mail takes the postcard format and the Waiheke postcode, 1081, to explore the island’s geography, social and art history and contributions of other national identities who have lived here.

Take a leisurely trip to Waiheke this coming Labour Weekend and take in these significant exhibitions at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery.

Book online at www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz

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SWERVE

MITSUBISHI MIRAGE

City Slicker City cars are more relevant than ever as traffic grows and road space decreases. Yet Aucklanders continue to fuel the SUV craze regardless of whether they need the size and utility of an imposing high-rider. In doing so, many are missing out on the simple joys of compact cardom.

Step forward the new Mitsubishi Mirage, a comprehensively equipped city slicker in a compact 3.85m package boasting five-door practicality. That means excellent passenger access front and rear, and easy access to 235L of boot space for day-to-day shopping. The folding rear seats are split 60:40 to help juggle passengers and cargo and, when folded flat, you suddenly have 600 litres at your disposal.

WO RD S —AN DREW KER R

Inside, soft-touch materials combine with comfortable and supportive seats in premium woven cloth with a geometric pattern. A new dashboard layout enhances the driving experience, and there’s a welcome simplicity with controls that fall easily to hand and are intuitive in their operation.

offers Forward Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning. And Hill Start Assist holds the brake for two seconds on an incline to prevent you rolling back while shifting from brake to accelerator. The bottom line is a fivestar ANCAP safety rating.

Under the bonnet lies an efficient 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine paired with a smooth CVT automatic. This combo promises town and around fuel consumption of just 5.0L/100km. Further highlights are a turning circle that’s tight enough to delight a London cabbie and excellent forward visibility.

The steering wheel houses audio, cruise control and hands-free phone function, while a seven-inch touchscreen display takes care of infotainment options. This includes the all-important Smartphone Link Display that connects seamlessly to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A reversing camera is also cleverly integrated in the display.

Front-end styling is strong for a small car with large headlights blending with a dynamic shield grille framed by bold chrome brackets. Circular daytime running lights are pushed out to each front corner to emphasise width. Machinefinished alloy wheels give the car both a confident stance and underpin an eye-catching profile with a dynamically rising shoulder line.

So the Mirage is no shrinking violet, and that’s before you set about cloaking it in one of seven options from a bold colour palette.

Speaking of safety, Mitsubishi’s Active Stability Control is complemented by Active Traction Control, and driver and front seat passenger benefit from six airbags in total. Besides the latest braking technology, the Mirage also

And despite Mirage being the most approachable model in the Mitsubishi range with an RRP of $19,995, a five-year new car warranty applies. For absolute peace of mind, Mitsubishi covers the powertrain for 10 years.

10 year / 160,000km Powertrain Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable). 5 year / 130,000km New Vehicle Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable).

Verve’s Picks: Electric and Hybrid Cars

Electrifying Engineering

Volkswagen campaigns have long been as reliable as their engineering. A decade ago, a UK commercial included a series of characters such as a Top Gear-like car presenter having the track-time of his life in something that drives just “like a Golf”; the ad closing with the tagline: ‘Why drive something like a Golf, when you can drive a Golf?’

In a meta twist, Volkswagen answered their own rhetorical question with the release of the e-Golf. The 2020 model is a real gem that truly drives just like ‘the real thing’. The silence and smoothness is almost disconcerting as it furiously chews up the freeway—the digital instrument display offers a speedometer and current speed that’s easy to see at a glance, which comes in handy as this thing really does move when you floor it. Even more fun is the way it handles the winding country roads of Auckland’s east and west coasts where Verve really put it through its paces—night driving being especially satisfying thanks to some atmospheric strips of blue low lighting along the inside door panels.

Interior highlights include an eight-speaker sound system controlled courtesy of a 9.2-inch infotainment gesture control screen replete with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Mirrorlink and the Discovery Pro Satellite Navigation System. A nice touch is the ability to have your GPS route transposed onto the instrument cluster behind, which, while not quite as cool as a heads-up display is a very close next best thing. More tech treats include voice control, electronically folding heated side mirrors, and a rear-view camera. There’s a two-zone air conditioning system replete with allergen filter, and the gear shifter knob and steering wheel are wrapped in leather. Safety features include blind spot monitoring, lane assist, pedestrian monitoring and

adaptive cruise control. The 220km range is in Normal mode accounts for two passengers and the air con running.

The Eco and Eco+ drive modes will save further battery power, though limit the top speed to 115km/h and 90km/h respectively (Normal tops out at 150km/h).

Charging via a regular domestic pug socket takes 21 hours to 100% (though you’ll likely rarely be anywhere near empty if you plug it in every night), a wall box can reduce that time to 5.5 hours. Rapid charging stations re-juice to 80% in just 45 minutes.

Expect 0-60km/h in a not-too-shabby 4.2 seconds, to 100km/h in just over 5 seconds more. To (mis)quote that ad, the e-Golf looks just and feels just ‘like a Golf’, minus the satisfying sound. But that’s a price worth paying for the sake of a greener world. On the subject of price, you can snap one up for $61,990 (usually $69,490) until the end of October, or while stocks last—which might not be too long.

OCTOBER 2020

MINI Electric

Verve’s Picks: Electric and Hybrid Carss

WO RD S —AN D REW KE RR

133 Let’s address the two burning questions first. How far can it go on a full charge, and how much does it cost? Answers: a claimed 233km and $59,900. And demand is high, which explains a six-month wait for delivery.

It’s a natural pairing: the three-door MINI hatch excels in the city where an EV comes into its own and styleconscious buyers have always been willing to pay for a high-spec MINI, which the higher cost of EV tech demands.

The MINI Electric maintains the styling of the regular hatch with some unique design elements: a modified front grille, bold yellow mirror caps, intricate 17-inch wheels, and a rear valance with no exhaust pipe. An all-new cabin feature is a digital instrument screen that combines well with a head-up display. Niceties include leather seats and Harman Kardon hi-fi, and you can pre-condition the cabin temperature before driving.

It behaves much like a conventional three-door MINI on the road with Cooper S levels of performance from a 135kW/270Nm electric powertrain with no noise or emissions. From a standstill, the MINI Electric whizzes away briskly without a decibel of drama, just a wave of instant torque that sweeps you to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds. So it’s very zippy but not at all lippy.

The electric motor sits beneath the clamshell bonnet and comes from the BMW i3 S but drives the front wheels, not the rears. Overall weight is undeniably heavy but there’s near 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling. And there are four distinct driving modes to explore, from Sport to Green+. You can choose your preferred level of brake energy recovery for each.

Bugbears? Usability is restricted by it being a three-door only but otherwise the MINI Electric meets daily motoring needs with room

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to spare. And if we return to the figures quoted at the beginning, the real-world range is likely be around 200km from our initial experience.

For most urban users, that’s still a solid reason to make your next small car an environmentally sustainable one. And rest assured, there is no brain-strain with home charging or when out and about.

As for price, electrifying small cars while maintaining an affordable price point remains a challenge but when you consider the quality, equipment and performance of the MINI Electric, there is genuine value to be found in this desirable newbie.

IN A NUTSHELL MINI Electric Electric motor, 32.6 kWh li-ion battery, 135kW/270Nm, single-speed auto, length 3.85m, weight 1365kg, range 233km, $59,900.

Verve’s Picks: Electric and Hybrid Cars

Suzuki Swift Hybrid WO R D S —AND R EW KE RR

Suzuki’s ever-popular five-door Swift has gradually grown over time to become all the car many city dwellers truly need. It majors on great in-town visibility and manoeuvrability and has surrendered none of its cuteness as it has matured, becoming more practical without losing its sense of fun. But is it still zesty enough in hybrid form to live up to its Swift name?

First though, what’s this clean-living hybridness all about? In essence, the Smart Hybrid system combines the 1.2-litre petrol engine, an electric motor and an extra lithium-ion battery that is charged when the car decelerates and brakes. Energy from the electric motor silently and smoothly restarts the engine, for example. And while cruising, the battery helps power the air-con and other electrical systems. The result is fuel savings in most driving situations, and it all adds up.

The Hybrid is engaging to drive without pretending to be a pocket rocket, like the popular Swift Sport.

There’s useful engine power to start

with, but more grunt is instantly accessible from the electric side of the equation for solid acceleration.

The CVT auto has an elastic quality in the way it works without the pronounced steps of a traditional automatic. Once in a while you’ll notice a bit of shuffling behind the curtains as it transitions between electric drive and petrol combustion, adapting to your accelerator inputs and driving style.

Compared with earlier Swifts, a broader footprint means the latest model feels more planted on the road, and ample headroom and passenger space elevate the cabin above economy class. Just think twice, perhaps, about squeezing three burly blokes in the back.

The dashboard is sensibly arranged with a nicely integrated seven-inch touchscreen and rear view camera.

A roster of new tech means the Limited version is as well-equipped as many cars in the category above

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and the suite of safety features is very reassuring. Prod me to pick the four most useful and I’d go for rear park sensors and camera, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Tech-minded peddlers will appreciate the multi-functional display. It colourfully conveys a range of info from running performance and battery status to fuel economy and digital driving speed.

The hybrid hardware does reduce load space slightly but it matters little if you occasionally carry passengers in the back seats. They fold flat to open up a generous 579 litres.

Overall the Swift Hybrid has the efficiency and feel-good factor to leave potential hybrid buyers open to persuasion.

IN A NUTSHELL Hybrid LTD 1.2-litre 4-cylinder electric motor, CVT alloys, length 3.85m, 4.1L/100km, $28,500.

Suzuki Swift petrol plus auto, 16-inch weight 946kg,

OCTOBER 2020

M E E T I N G S T R A I N I N G N E T W O R K I N G L AU N C H E S E V E N T S L O O K I N G T O H I R E A V E N U E F O R Y O U R E N D - O F -Y E A R P L A N N I N G S E S S I O N O R C O R P O R AT E E V E N T ?

ENQUIRE AT EVENTS ON KHYBER TODAY! Central Auckland location Easy access to motorway & plenty of parking Fully equipped with modern technology

Affordable rates from $100/hr for the boardroom Half-day room hire from $335+GST Full-day room hire from $465 +GST

Events on Khyber, Level 2, 155 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland 1023 Ph: 09 356 1755 | Em: bookings@eventsonkhyber.co.nz | Web: www.eventsonkhyber.co.nz

Paul Goldsmith

National List MP Based in Epsom 107 Great South Road, Greenlane 09 524 4930 paul.goldsmith@parliament.govt.nz paulgoldsmith.co.nz paulgoldsmithnz

Funded by the Parliamentary Service.

Authorised by Paul Goldsmith MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

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BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

JU ST RE NTAL S

The Rent Freeze Is Over!

Landlords can now put the rent up. There was a freeze for six months, and the new legislation states rents can only be reviewed once a year, but just because legislation says we can put rents up doesn’t mean you have to – be cautious and reasonable.

It has been a year of unprecedented events. Many households are still struggling – jobs have been lost and businesses closing. The country is reeling from the Covid-19 pandemic. You do not want empty properties with tenants moving out because the rents are too high.

40 ST JOHNS RD, MEADOWBANK JUSTRENTALS.CO.NZ 09 5284819 OR 09 528 4818 JUSTRENTALS@XTRA.CO.NZ

We also have owners selling their rental properties. We have had to drop rents to re-let the properties. Tenants are giving notice and leaving to find something cheaper. Landlords, think carefully before you increase rents, communicate with your tenants and see how they are going.

Let’s stop to think what the tenant means to you, the landlord: • Your tenant is the most important person in your rental • When the tenant calls with maintenance issues they’re doing you a favour • Your tenant is part of your business, you need to work together • Your tenant helps pay the mortgage So, think seriously whether the $10 or $20 increase in rent is worth losing a good tenant over; re-letting could take some time.

The months ahead are not going to be easy with all the changes, so do not make it harder by raising the rent.

Sylvia Lund AREINZ Director.

Property Manager

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EXCELLENCE IN VETERINARY CARE FROM POOCH TO GIANT DOG CAT FRIENDLY CLINIC

(GOLD CERTIFIED BY THE ISFM)

1 9 9 M A I N H I G H WAY, E L L E R S L I E • 0 9 2 8 1 3 4 8 1 • E L L E R S L I E V E T E R I N A R YC L I N I C . N Z VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

OCTOBER 2020 AIC

Congratulating Our Students

2020 has been an extremely bumpy year for students everywhere. Auckland International College (AIC) students and staff feel the impact on learning has been minimised as we jumped between online and face-to-face classes.

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Our students’ diligence and resilience is going to stand them in good stead as they progress from here to the top universities throughout the world. Offers are in for the class of 2020 and AIC congratulates our graduate students going to the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, University of Stanford, Imperial College London, Johns Hopkins University and all the others far too numerous to list here!

New Zealand’s top IB school Come and check us out If you’d like to know more about AIC’s university counselling services please have a look at aic. ac.nz/university-counselling/ or come and have a look around our campus. Every day is an open day at AIC. Call 09 309 4480 or email admissions@aic.ac.nz for more information.

www.aic.ac.nz ph 09 3094480 | admissions@aic.ac.nz

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PETS

A Day in the Life of

Melanie Faure Melanie Faure is the co-founder of company LAPF CARES. Perhaps you remember Melanie, she was the first Verve Instagram Queen a few years ago. Melanie and Juvan have recently developed a unique concept of dog assisted therapy through video conference. Everyone can benefit from this online therapy, even people who are allergic to dog hair or situated miles away.

They operate internationally and donate 5% of their fees to local and international charities.

2pm 12:30pm

Did you hear the bell? It's time to take a little break to train and play with our dogs again. Have you ever heard of dog dancing? Gabrielle, our Bernese mountain dog and I have started to practise together.

We normally have some private video calls where Zorro and Gabrielle are meeting some wonderful families from France, New Zealand, South Africa and Canada. Right now, they are doing their happy dance and can’t wait to put a smile on peoples faces.

4pm

We then embark on our long journey to our office which is 10 metres away from our kitchen. We check our emails and I post on social media. Next on our agenda is planning our day, scheduling to meet new clients and checking next week's bookings for online therapy. What a fun day, friyay!

Who’s cooking lunch? We both love to cook together and try new recipes.

Seafood from our local coast is delicious and our favourite by far is homemade sushi or prawn salad.

It is time for the last important call of the day for an exciting upcoming project. We have teamed up with other key speakers and we will soon be presenting our personal branding course at conferences across South Africa.

5pm

6:30am 8:30am

13 8

Our fur babies wake us up for some cuddles and then we prepare their royal breakfast. Juvan then prepares a farm breakfast with some organic moringa, ginger and lemongrass tea. We start our day with a grateful heart and enjoy the little moments with each other.

11:30am

Let’s discover their Friday routine!

Yay, we are off for the weekend! It is time to get ready for our Cuban salsa class and our date night. I shall change my clothes, wear a fancy dress, put some makeup on and keep smiling. See you next week guys and take care!

• HEL LO@ L APFCARES.C OM • INSTAGRAM @L APFCARES

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Keep your New Pet in Check During the Pandemic With pet adoptions on the rise as New Zealanders spend more time at home as a result of the pandemic, new research from Royal Canin reveals that more than 50% of cat owners do not take their cat to the vet for regular check-ups.

WO RD S —DR BE N P O RTE R Royal Canin Veterinarian

“Our research shows that more than 50% of cat owners do not take their cat to the vet for regular check-ups – and this is on the rise during the Covid-19 period. Despite the stress of the vet visits, we’re imploring Kiwis – first-time and experienced owners – to instate regular vet visits as they’re an important part of being a responsible pet owner, especially as many of us return to work and a more normal day-today routine.”

In addition, to regular check-ups, making sure your furry friend has the right nutrition throughout their lifespan is integral to support a long and healthy life.

“We look to our pets for companionship and see them as part of the family, and as such we should think of their health and wellbeing needs in a similar manner.

What we feed our puppies and kittens at this early stage will have an impact for the rest of their life,” says Dr Porter.

“Preventative care through premium nutrition is a great way to support your pet’s growth and development, in addition to regular veterinary advice, to give your pet the best start to life as possible.”

Visit royalcanin.com for more information.

Is Your Dog Slowing Down?

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Dogs love to run but often old age, arthritis and joint pain can make this difficult.

Time to give your dog ‘Active Again’ a blend of natural food oils that possess potent lubricating properties that gives your dog more flexibility and mobility.

Proven by NZ Vets to work exceptionally well.

For more information or order online visit: lifetimehealth.co.nz 027 489 3489 sales@lifetimehealth.co.nz

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AU-8719616AA

Dr Ben Porter, Royal Canin Veterinarian, says that for many pet owners, particularly first-time owners, the idea of taking your pet to the vet is very stressful.

"We see this most amongst cat owners because, unlike their canine companions, it’s often much more difficult to transport and restrain your cat on the way to and at the vet.

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O RO NEG RO Contemporary New Zealand jewellery and greenstone design.

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OCTOBER 2020

V E R V E

SIMPLY WO NDERFU L

TI ME O UT BO O KSTO R E

VE RVE CAFÉ

Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new go-to items at Simply Wonderful.

An independent bookstore with an independent spirit, since 1988. Time Out is a community hub and haven for bibliophiles. If we can't find you the perfect book on our shelves, we'll order something in just for you.

Remarkable breakfasts and brunches.

Sunny deck or indoor dining. All food made on the premises. Amazing coffee. We also have a children's menu.

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A carefully curated collection of bespoke handpicked European Vintage Clothing

DID YOU ATTEND KOHIMARAMA SCHOOL? SEARCHING FOR ALL PAST STUDENTS, STAFF, FRIENDS AND ASSOCIATES OF OUR SCHOOL In 2021, Kohimarama School will be celebrating 100 years of service to our community and we want to keep you informed with news and updates of our celebration plans!

164 Kitchener Rd, Milford shop online now www.paintedbird.nz paintedbirdnz

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Register to join our Centennial mailing list at www.kohimarama.school.nz/ We’d love to hear your stories and see any historical images you may have - email centennial@kohimarama.school.nz

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MARKETPLACE

Food Covers

A RRIV ING EA RLY O CTOB E R

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The home of fine film in Newmarket.

See session times at rialto.co.nz.

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OCTOBER 2020

Office Space To Let First Month Free Office space available to rent on Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn (Opposite Ozone Coffee Roasters) Slightly bigger than 10 square metres Enough space for 2 desks.

Office has a large window. Office is sunny and light.

Internet / Shared kitchen Shared bathroom / Free carparking $100 p/w + GST

Contact

fran@vervemagazine.co.nz jude@vervemagazine.co.nz 127 SYMONDS ST, AUCKLAND • AVANTGARDEDESIGN.CO.NZ

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The Point Chev Beach Café was launched on Jan 2017 and has rapidly gained a reputation in excellent cuisine, coffee and a welcoming service. Being situated beside the beach, it’s the perfect location for a family outing, a romantic date or just an ice cream!

For bookings or to discuss private functions please contact us on: 09 815 6636 506 Pt Chevalier Rd, Auckland ptchevbeachcafe.co.nz

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Win with Verve 01 Win a life changing luxury health retreat with Resolution Retreats valued at $1,920.

Win the ultimate luxury health holiday with Resolution Retreats, the only weight loss, health and wellness retreat exclusively for women in New Zealand. Unwind in the stunning, peaceful settings of Lake Karāpiro while you fully immerse yourself in a health kickstart that will equip you with the tools, resources and support to empower you to achieve your health goals and reset your mind and body.

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This incredible prize includes luxurious private chalet accommodation, all nutritionist meals provided and a complimentary beauty treatment at the luxury, in-house spa by The Facialist. Activities range from gentle, daily yoga and group training sessions to cooking classes, nutritional workshops, success coaching and health workshops. Access to the wellness centre's five-star facilities including the luxury spa, saunas, steam rooms, a swimming pool, yoga studio, tennis courts and Jacuzzi will leave you feeling pampered, refreshed and inspired to live a healthier, happier lifestyle.

Full-time facilitator support and sought-after, leading industry experts deliver a pragmatic programme that delivers results while providing you with the encouragement and motivation you need to begin and maintain your journey to a healthier, happier self.

For more details and the T&Cs please visit vervemagazine.co.nz/win.

Up for grabs — A Resolution Retreats health retreat valued at $1,920.

02 Drive a Volkswagen e-Golf for a weekend!

Experience emission-free travel in a 100% electric vehicle.

We’re giving away a Volkswagen e-Golf for the weekend so you can experience the silent power for yourself.

Responsive, agile and all from a renewable source.

Up for grabs — A Volkswagen e-Golf to drive around for the weekend.

People Activewear Set 03 1Eco-friendly, comfortable and high quality, 1 People

pride themselves on the elegance of their minimalistic, authentic yet universally appealing Danish design. Their steadfast commitment to environmental balance makes 1 People a frontrunner in using sustainable fabrics. Being also socially conscious, 1 People allocate 40% of their profits to empower social entrepreneurs. 1people.com Up for grabs — One 1 People Activewear set (Leggings and Top).

04

Entering is simple. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz and click on 'WIN', then follow the directions, not forgetting to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @vervemagazine. Good luck! *T&Cs apply.

Good Cube Pack

Good Cube, the plant-based conditioning and shampoo bar NZ coastlines and your hair will thank you for. Plastic-free shampoo. Ditch the plastic and raise the bar. Be in to win the range of Good Cubes. goodcube.com Up for grabs — A Good Cube Pack.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

STUNNING TWO-BEDROOM APARTMENTS FROM $650,000*

Think resort style living in Auckland Located just 10 minutes from the city centre, Summerset at Heritage Park is a retirement oasis with a fantastic range of indoor and outdoor facilities including a heated pool and spa, hair salon, cafĂŠ and bar area. From our rooftop gardens, you can also soak up the wonderful views looking out across the village towards One Tree Hill and the Sky Tower.

Our stunning range of architecturally designed two-bedroom apartments start from just $650,000.* With an open-plan designer kitchen flowing into your living area and outdoor patio or balcony, these apartments are perfect for relaxed retirement living. All apartments have modern fittings, generous storage and come with a guest WC or a full second bathroom.

Get in touch today Summerset at Heritage Park 8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie For more information contact Lisa Nelson, Sales Manager, on 09 950 7962 or ellerslie.sales@summerset.co.nz

*Licence to occupy.

For up-to-date information on visiting our villages, go to summerset.co.nz/covid-19

SUM2456_VM

09 950 7962 | summerset.co.nz/lakeview

See FineWineDelivery.co.nz for more details

Terms and conditions apply. See FineWineDelivery.co.nz for more details.

Specif ication of Land Rover provided may differ f rom model shown.