Verve. November 2023. Issue 203.

NOVEMBER 2023

An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.

AWAYDAY leads the way in our gift-laden November issue. We also stroll the St Heliers promenade, introduce some pasta grannies, and learn to live better for longer!

Stunningly curated outdoor furniture from Italy, Belgium, France, Indonesia and the Philippines. Before you purchase anywhere, you owe it to yourself to compare. Prices. Design. Quality. You will be so pleased you did. All products are in stock, fully assembled, and available for nationwide delivery. Sunbrella® or Agora® cushions are included with the purchase of our deep seating pieces as shown on our website.

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137 - 147 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland | 0800.111.112 | Open Daily from 9:30 until 5:30

MYKONOS RELAXING CHAIRS WITH TUSCANY COFFEE TABLE AND MYKONOS RELAXING ARMCHAIRS

sales@designwarehouse.co.nz | commercial@designwarehouse.co.nz | www.designwarehouse.co.nz

DUKE BAR CART

FURNITURE, LIGHTING & HOMEWARE GALLERY NOW IN-STORE

OLIVIER FRAME (8x10) $480

WYATT DOUBLE CHAMPAGNE COOLER $1,289

GARRETT DECANTER $498

NORTHAM THROW BLANKET $1,580

KIPTON MIXOLOGIST BOX $11,835

ST GERMAIN SINGLE WICK CANDLE $192

SUTTON POKER SET $2,237

WYATT TRIPLE NUT BOWL $299

GARRETT TUMBLERS (SET OF TWO) $237

T R E N Z S E AT E R

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

REIMAGINING PARNELL LUXURY RESIDENCES NOW SELLING

DISCOVER MORE:

yorkhouse.co.nz

VISIT THE DISPLAY SUITE GALLERY 16 YORK STREET, PARNELL WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY: 12:30-2:00 P.M. SATURDAY & SUNDAY: 2:00-4:00 P.M.

In one of the most esteemed neighbourhoods of Auckland, a groundbreaking development is set to redefine apartment living in the City of Sails. York House is poised to become a remarkable vision upon its completion, boasting 33 sophisticated apartments and eight pristine penthouses offering arguably the most stunning views across Auckland.

The robust concrete exterior is complemented by lush greenery and convenient access to outdoor spaces.

On the apartment levels, spanning from ground to the third floor, tailor-made steel planters seamlessly blend into the edges of each balcony, enhancing privacy and skilfully integrating the architecture with native landscaping.

With its prime location on York, Bradford, and Earle Streets, York House has been meticulously designed by Monk Mackenzie architects to maximise natural light, ventilation, and space while providing an exquisite landscaped environment. The gently curved, textured charcoal concrete facade will capture and reflect light and shadows in a unique and captivating way throughout the day, ensuring that the entire development exudes a distinctive character influenced by the changing lighting conditions.

On the uppermost penthouse levels, you’ll find expansive terraces, some of which span an impressive 130 square metres, enclosed by sleek balustrades. These terraces offer enviable elevated vistas that stretch across the Waitematā Harbour and the cityscape without interruption.

Amelia Holmes, one of New Zealand’s most soughtafter interior designers and stylists, has meticulously designed the interiors of every residence. The living areas are generously proportioned and airy, while the bedrooms and bathrooms exude luxury and comfort.

Designer kitchens seamlessly blend form and function. In the penthouses, a modern island bench made of travertine stone serves as the focal point, and floor-to-ceiling walnut cabinetry reveals a concealed and fully equipped scullery featuring high-end Gaggenau and Fisher & Paykel appliances.

York House is poised to provide an exclusive haven for 'right-sizers' seeking a contemporary, lowmaintenance lifestyle in a desirable part of the city.

Parnell’s dining and retail offerings are exceptional.

A stroll down a brick-paved alley between buildings may lead you to unexpected restaurants or art galleries. Parnell offers a genuine village experience, and York House will be a welcome addition to this charming neighborhood.

Construction on York House is anticipated to commence in mid-2024. Apartments start at $995,000, while penthouses begin at $4,120,000.

PENE MILNE

GAVIN LLOYD

M. +64 21 919 940 E. pene.milne@nzsir.com

M. +64 27 722 7377 E. gavin.lloyd@nzsir.com

What’s Inside

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Up Front 10

Beauty & Health 58

Circle of Life 104

In Short

Changing Faces

Caretakers of History

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114

Knock on Wood

Get Summer Ready!

Live Better, Live Longer

Home & Design 24

St Heliers Feature 66

Journeys 118

A Design Destination

Welcome to the Neighbourhood

Wairarapa Wonders

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126

Sustainable Innovation

Chosen One

The Humble Bach – An Oeuvre

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130

All Aboard!

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Food & Wine 72

Urban Masterpiece

Hunger Busters

Art & About 134

Alfresco Feast

87 The Spirit of Gifting 53

Taste & Drink

What’s On in November

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Curating Cool

A Taste of Perfection

On the Bookshelf

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

Verve is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to cafés and businesses in Devonport, Epsom, Ellerslie, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna. Verve is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields, Takapuna and in domestic terminal Auckland Airport.

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

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

Subscriptions vervemagazine.co.nz/shop

GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Advertising Enquiries danielle@vervemagazine.co.nz fran@vervemagazine.co.nz jude@vervemagazine.co.nz kate@vervemagazine.co.nz pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover: Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking recipes by Vicky Bennison, Photography

by Lizzie Mayson, Published by Hardie Grant Books.

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

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every e ort has been made to ensure

Up Front

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.

Specialist Obstetricians.

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

Editors’ Notes

Fran Ninow

Jude Mitchell

Most months we have the privilege of typing up our Editor’s Note.

For me, it involves retreating to a comfy corner of my lounge room illuminated by the reading lamp to take stock and reflect on the month passed, and the one to come. A ritual that provides a moment of respite, a pause in my whirlwind life.

This month, I’m handing over the reins – or the page! – to my wonderful sister, Joan, who’s travelling in India.

Co-editor

In our November issue we invite you to also embark on a journey of reflection as we kickstart thoughts of summer holidays and prep for the festive season ahead. On the following pages, you’ll discover a gorgeous guest cottage, creative ideas for al fresco dining, and a fabulous collection of swimwear and cover-ups. Plus, we visit our favourite seaside village and remind ourselves of how to look and feel our absolute best as the holidays approach.

We also pay homage to the rich tapestry that is Later Living, recognising that age is all about opportunity, as opposed to boundaries. Some standout stories in this section include an exploration of the Secrets of the Blue Zones, covering the essential factors that contribute to longevity, and a beautifully crafted piece on Purewa. These insights are not just pearls of wisdom for us ‘later livers’ but a guiding light for all ages, emphasising the importance of effective stress management, a sense of purpose, moderate alcohol consumption, faith and spirituality, an active outdoor lifestyle, and, above all, the nurturing embrace of social connection.

A local gem of wisdom that resonates deeply: He aha te mea nui o te ao? (What is the most important thing in the world?)

He tangata, he tangata, he tangata (It is the people, it is the people, it is the people) - Māori proverb In these words, we find the heart of Later Living, a celebration of the enduring spirit that binds us together. May this issue inspire you to embrace the opportunities that age brings and cherish the connections that enrich our lives.

Co-editor

Namaste from Mother India!

It’s after midday in these here parts and we’ve just come back from the far side of town in an auto rickshaw, which is fun, fast and furious – aside from the assault on the lungs from the toxic traffic fumes.

We’re staying with a wonderful local family. It feels so safe and secure here and an added bonus is that Chittra, our lovely host, is a superb and generous cook whose belief is: eat like a king for breakfast, a prince for lunch, and a pauper for dinner. She’ll get no complaints out of us. Plus, it appears to resonate well with my sensitive digestion system, consequently the Quick-Eze have been tossed asunder!

In the narrow lane below, there’s an impressive lineup of fruit and veg sellers ringing their bells and hawking their wares. The morning newspaper is hurled from street to the third-floor balcony, skilfully dodging a thick curtain of trees and plants on its ascent.

I’m content to be mostly stationed up here amongst the greenery with little desire to fight my way through the hot and sweaty masses. Sitting still is such a luxury and I’m proud that my body can still fold itself, like a one-piece puzzle, into the sitting position.

Graeme takes the city metro rail every day to Delhi University which takes about one hour and involves two train changes and a rickshaw ride at the end. His conference finishes Friday, so come Sunday we’re heading to Rishikesh, a smallish town snuggled into the foothills of the mighty Himalayas – our third visit there.

I’m looking forward to staying by the Ganga and dipping my toes in. Merely gazing at it makes a woman more than happy. Also, the nightly Ganga Aarti, or Fire Ritual, performed on jetties over the river is so powerful.

Fran x Lots of love, Joan x

Up Front

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

Matchmaking

Ever wondered why some foods go together like salt and pepper, and others just don’t mix at all? Well, it all boils down to shared chemical compounds – and ones that predominantly relate to aroma (80% of our flavour experiences is defined by our sense of smell, which is why we can’t ‘taste’ anything when we have a cold). Foods that share similar elements will often pair well, with common examples including beef and garlic, ham and cheese, and strawberries and chocolate; though shared compounds don’t always guarantee good combinations – strawberries and mushrooms, anyone? Balanced dishes generally also incorporate 3-4 of the five tastes – sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami (or savoury) – as well as some crunch to counter the softness (a variety of textures stimulate more brain cells for greater culinary enjoyment), and starch or dairy to complement spice.

Up Front

Cuisine of the Coast

Wild food foraging for the likes of berries, herbs and mushrooms has been gaining popularity in recent years, but those living close to the ocean might be missing a trick. Coastal foraging isn’t just a good excuse to get to the beach, it offers a wide variety of health-boosting foods such as shellfish, fungi, and seaweed.

Seaweed, a staple diet item in Asia since prehistoric times, isn’t just rich in nutrients and great for heart health – it could help save societies and the planet too. As noted by Vincent Doumeizel, a senior advisor on oceans to the UN, in his recently published book, The Seaweed Revolution, the marine plants and algae “could feed people, replace plastic, decarbonize the economy, cool the atmosphere, clean up the oceans, rebuild marine ecosystems and reduce social injustice by providing jobs and income to coastal populations”.

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Tilting Trending

The canthal tilt concerns the angle between the inner and outer corner of the eyes and is said – on social media at least – to measure beauty. Recently trending on TikTok, the angle is measured by (digitally) drawing a red line across the eyes, with a positive canthal tilt (whereby the outer corners of the eyes are angled slightly upwards) considered more attractive. But why? A positive tilt implies youthfulness because as we age our eyes tend to sag, creating a ‘negative’ effect. However, as with many social media beauty trends, the canthal tilt leans in with highly problematic ideals which may force more people to seek out unnecessary procedures or surgeries.

Dr Samuel J Lin of Harvard Medical School tells HuffPost that there has been significant increase in inquiries about canthal tilts in recent months. But, for those that are worried that their eyes might slope the ‘wrong’ way, both Elvis Presley and Marylin Monroe were in possession of negative canthal tilts, and we certainly don’t think anyone would question their beauty would they!

Scam Off

Research has found online scams and fraud to cost Kiwis nearly $19 million annually, and according to Ernst Young, nearly nine in 10 New Zealanders were targeted this year. While the average loss per victim is $4,700, New Zealand Seniors reports that it rises to nearly $19,000 for romance scams, which are more common for the over 50s, along with cold calls, email phishing, and emergency scams. Produced by the Commission for Financial Capability (CFFC) – and free to download from sorted.org.nz – the Little Black Book of Scams is a booklet which details common cons, how to avoid them, and what to do if you do fall victim. “We needed a resource that people could download to read and share to help everyone raise awareness about the different types of fraud,” CFFC fraud education manager Bronwyn Groot tells Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission. “This booklet could be given to friends or family members or distributed among community groups.”

Byron Beater

Perched at the mouth of the Clarence River in the northern reaches of New South Wales, the coastal town of Yamba is being billed as ‘the new Byron Bay’ as the once bohemian mecca becomes ever more overcrowded, overpriced, and under-bohemian. Like Byron, Yamba boasts breathtaking beaches that give way to incredible surf breaks, beyond which awaits marine parks that sustain dolphins, turtles, and migrating whales.

Back on dry land, Yamba’s streets host produce markets, boutiques, and exceptional eateries. Surfing, sunbathing, and sea creature viewing cruises are complemented by other must-dos like breakfast at the Mediterranean-inspired Beachwood Cafe, sipping an ice-cold beer with a view of Main Beach from the Pacific Hotel, and a picnic at beneath the century-old Yamba Lighthouse. Long one of the country’s best-kept secrets, don’t expect it to remain so, described

by Australian Traveller as “an impressive beachside destination, which still manages to maintain its unpretentious essence and strong sense of community”.

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You Beauty!

And finally, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of Beauty by Verve, an online publication that aims to inspire readers to engage and explore more curated beauty content, including trends, interviews, skincare, haircare, makeup, wellness, giveaways, and more!

Verve beauty editor Danielle Feneridis says that the concept was inspired by this year’s bumper Best in Beauty issue which was the most successful ever. “We realised how much interest we had from readers and advertisers around beauty content and have hopefully created a publication to achieve this for everyone,” she says. “We wanted to create a space online where readers can go to for more specialised, regular content, and a place for advertisers to know they are reaching readers who are interested in purely beauty content.” As well as trending treatments and products, there will be the latest industry updates and local business directories. “Essentially, it will be a timeless beauty edit,” adds Danielle.

November 2023

Fabric Warranty

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Mold/Mildew Resistant

Rust-free Frame

Quick-dry Foam

SPECIAL OFFER

Free Fatboy Bolleke lamp (worth $169) with any purchase, while stocks last.

72 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna

designconcepts.co.nz

Knock on Wood An innovative solid-wood house in an architect’s Cape Town hillside garden was designed as much as a guest cottage as an experiment in a new kind of fast, sustainable building.

WORDS — GRAHAM WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY — WARREN HEATH ARCHITECT — ALEXANDER MCGEE

Left: With its simple, archetypal “tent-like” shape, the cabin nestles unobtrusively in its surroundings on a garden terrace.

Bottom left: The cabin incorporates a built-in owl box, designed in consultation with raptor specialists. “It’s an offering to the environment, an invitation to life around the home to co-habit in the cabin,” says architect, Alexander McGee. Bottom right: The solar panels on the roof generate enough electricity to power the cabin.

Right page: The larch front door frames a view right through the cabin, drawing the eye out and beyond. Apart from the fact that the beach here is one of Cape Town’s best-loved surf spots, the surfboard is an extension of Alexander’s interest in local timber craft and manufacturing.

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November 2023

Get the look with Resene Resene Astronaut Resene Blue Bark Resene Uluru

Left top: Looking into the main living area from the entrance hall, one’s eye is carried outward, which immediately creates a sense of openness and space.

Left bottom: A generous window-seat is a more valuable home asset than a deck terrace in the windy summer months in Muizenberg and makes for a perfect spot to watch the sun and moon rise.

Right page: Tucked beneath the mezzanine, the kitchen with solid larch, above-counter shelving and drying rack, reclaimed travertine worktops and bluegreen cabinets forms part of the openplan living areas.

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November 2023

The sleeping area is tucked under the eaves on the mezzanine level accessed by a retractable stair-ladder.

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November 2023

Get the look with Resene Resene Buttercup Resene Covert Resene Driftwood

Above & right page: The sleeping area is tucked under the eaves on the mezzanine level accessed by a retractable stairladder. A skylight allows views of the surrounding treetops and the swell on False Bay. A vertical window in the gable also allows a glimpse of the plants growing on the terraced hillside garden and Muizenberg Peak behind.

Left: The bathroom comfortably accommodates a level, walk-in shower, Agape basin and toilet.

Over page: Behind the cottage, on a terrace, a paved alfresco dining area with a fireplace is nestled in a sheltered corner up against the stone retaining walls, with stone originally quarried from the hillside.

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The archetypal “tentlike” shape with its high gabled ceiling allowed for extra space on a standing, mezzanine level.

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November 2023

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stellaria.co.nz

Shades of Brick Brick is finding its way back onto NZ homes in a new and exciting way!

As the classic brick of the 70s and 80s gave way to other forms of cladding, Stellaria is making waves across NZ with an incredible range of bricks manufactured in some of Europe’s oldest kilns.

Partnered with Wienerberger, Stellaria has been introducing brick to NZ with a fresh innovative approach. Moving away from the NZ 70 series brick, now a new world of brick has become available in NZ. New colours, formats, texture and style has created a world of possibility for brick cladding on NZ homes.

Brick is reliable. It’s durable and trustworthy. It’s the very best cladding to symbolise tradition, timelessness, and family. It says everything about the value of your home and how much it means to you.

Featured here is the beauty, form and life of Stellaria’s long format brick. This is the Wasserstrich or ‘Waterstruck’ brick manufactured in Beerse, Belgium. At 500mm long and 40mm high, these bricks are manufactured using a very special production technique – the bricks are literally 'struck' with water as they are taken out of their moulds after firing. This leaves them with irregular and jagged edges for that 'weathered' look – not one brick is identical to another!

The architect and client chose this very special white brick and the bricklayers have done an incredible job with the installation.

straight. Rather, each brick tells its own story of the production technique designed to be varied, unique and stand-out. A project like this doesn't come easily but when all is said and done... the beauty is in the art, craftsmanship, and design, all pulled together by this very stunning brick.

The colour range of white, beige, reds, greys and a charcoal black 'burnished' is stunning. Now, Wienerberger produces the Waterstruck ECO bricks at 400(L) x 65(D) x 40(H) which are also available in many different colours.

Waikato builder Steve Joynes and his team of craftsmen bricklayers installed every brick with much passion and painstaking attention to detail, because no brick is perfect or 23

November 2023

A Design Destination WORDS— MILLY NOLAN

Republic Home has filled Kiwi houses with designled furniture and homewares for over two decades.

Inspired by frequent travels around the globe, owner David Peez has grown Republic Home into an institution renowned for its unique, high-quality pieces. To celebrate his new Parnell showroom, Verve sits down with David for a chat.

creating furniture using reclaimed timber and sustainable materials like mango wood, mostly from plantations that have been chopped down, or from trees that have had a full life of growth. It’s a nice way to also add some history to each piece.

How did you come to own Republic Home?

Tell us about the interior styling service that you offer.

I’ve always had an interest in interiors. After the closure of the investment banking business I was working for in the Middle East after the global financial crisis, I returned to New Zealand and saw that Republic Home was for sale so I bought it. Twelve years later, the rest is history.

How has Republic Home evolved since you took ownership?

Initially the furniture was only from Indonesia, I expanded the business by importing from designers and factories in various countries like India, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

We offer both in-store and off-site interior styling services.

In-store, we provide a unique, complimentary interior design consultations with our interior consultant, who excels at creating mood boards and helping customers make choices.

It can greatly assist customers in visualising their ideal home decor. On-site, our consultant visits customer’s homes and provides design advice. There’s a fee associated with on-site consultations, refundable with a certain purchase amount.

Can you please tell us about the fabulous new showroom?

We don’t have a single aesthetic. We really want people to be able to curate their own look by offering a diverse range of styles. While staying abreast of global trends is important, we also need to cater to New Zealand’s more conservative taste. For those that wish to be more daring however, I do like to push the envelope with new styles and products where I can.

We’re really excited to have joined Parnell’s design and home décor precinct. The new showroom is slightly larger and flooded with natural light. The space is designed to showcase the furniture, with a more polished and monochromatic look. We've introduced new collections and a range of products, including some pretty spectacular statement marble pieces. We've also improved our website to enhance the online shopping experience. Oh, and there’s free parking spaces also!

Does your personal style influence the store’s offering?

What are your must-have items for homes this summer?

How would you describe the aesthetic of Republic Home?

My personal style has evolved over the years, but it has always leaned towards combining elements of ethnic, tribal, and boho, with contemporary, high-spec finishes.

Republic Home places a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical trading. Can you tell us more about your commitment to these values?

Sustainability is a core value. We believe that the recycling and upcycling of materials is essential for our planet to survive.

We used to source vintage furniture but have now shifted to Home & Design

Our Maya Dining Chairs are timeless favourites, and we offer them in different leather colours. The new pistachio colour is proving popular. We also have beautiful marble pieces like the Athena Coffee and Side Table and Nabu marble tables, which are on trend and make great additions to any home.

1 Shipwright Lane, Parnell 09 361 1137 republichome.com

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1. Kairakau sofa, Newton coffee and side tables 2. Kish side table 3. Athena coffee table 4. Athena side table 5. Maya chairs and Nelson dining table

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November 2023

BRING WALLS TO LIFE

with muros

EUROPEAN WALL PANELS

CONCRETE | BRICK | WOOD | STONE | 3D

Control your outdoor living, no matter the weather.

Oztech Retractable Shade Systems are designed to give you complete control of your outdoor space, so you can entertain or relax outside, whatever the weather. Fully enclosed, completely open or anywhere in between, Oztech gives you the flexibility to create an additional outdoor room with seamless indoor-outdoor flow, filled with light and protected from the elements. Supported by comprehensive warranties, you can relax and trust the system is built to last with minimal maintenance needed.

We have created an excellent distribution network of local businesses to cover New Zealand, managed by a family-owned and operated New Zealand company. Our trusted local teams offer great customer service and expertise to create the best solution for your outdoor area.

Visit our website or get in touch with your local Oztech representative to discuss how an Oztech can add value to your lifestyle and home.

OZTECH.CO.NZ · INFO@OZTECH.CO.NZ · 0800 656 000

MUROS.CO.NZ

Aspect Roofing Occupying a prime spot in the Orakei dress circle, these two stunning architecturally designed homes are a commanding presence amidst the predominantly traditional style homes in the area.

The sloping 800sqm section provides ample space for both dwellings to fully utilise both soaring height, bold angles, and long sweeping lines – the perfect base on which to showcase the breathtaking finish our cladding can produce. Custom-run trays, installed over a plywood substrate, ensure the cladding maintains a beautiful crisp line across both roof and walls, subtly enhancing the bold, angular facade and distinctly modern flavour of these newly built homes.

aspectroofing.co.nz

To remain in keeping with the muted hues and natural materials used throughout the build, we have selected Weathered Copper from the Colorcote range of pre-painted steel for both profile and flashings – this low-gloss, semi-matte finish perfectly complemented to the subtle, earthy palette the designer had envisioned for the exterior of these two homes.

These Orakei gems are a simple yet stunning example of standing seam metal cladding and its ability to add a touch of timeless elegance to any modern or architecturally designed exterior.

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

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

biform.co.nz

Sustainable Innovation IMAGE: BIFORM’S FLOORING AND DECKING PRODUCTS INSTALLED IN A WHITFORD HOME

We are a multi-generational family business, founded some 20 years ago by Vee and Tau Aupa’au.

Tau’s son Ben is our operations manager and son Noah is involved in the sales side of the business.

We have a strong commitment to sustainability and our ‘aha’ moment came many years ago in Yellowstone National Park in the USA when Vee wondered what kind of track surface she was walking on. It looked right in the environment and had obviously weathered well. It was a composite product, quite different to traditional hardwood.

It inspired us to track down a manufacturer who could provide a low-maintenance solution made from 60% waste timber fibre and 30% recycled HDPE plastic and suited to New Zealand conditions.

We have a growing family of franchisees to support our sales activity, and this has seen us selected as finalists in the Franchisee of the Year Awards. We continue to expand this network, working with like-minded people who share our strong family values and a commitment to sustainability.

as we strengthen our relationships throughout the building chain – including architects, builders, regulatory bodies, and homeowners themselves.

Where did Biform's passion for sustainability come from?

Our family has strong links with the land in Aotearoa and this informs the selection of the composition of our product as well as its look and feel. By using waste timber, we’re doing our part to reduce deforestation often associated with the use of hardwood, saving the homes of endangered animals, such as the orangutan, in the process.

Using recycled plastic means we’re reducing the amount of harmful plastic sitting in landfills.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we have instituted a programme which allows our clients to return packaging from our products to us for recycling. Better still we have found that some of them have begun to do the same thing with the packaging in their own businesses and workplaces.

Looking ahead, where do you see Biform evolving, and how do you see it growing within the world of sustainable decking?

Our 25-year product guarantee is a powerful testament to our belief in the quality of our BRANZ-appraised board.

While continuing to focus on our core products, we see exciting possibilities to develop our markets and products

Are there any projects that Biform worked on that were particularly memorable?

Besides our involvement with the Kauri Dieback programme discussed below, we have provided decking for all the balconies for Te Mātāwai, Kainga Ora’s largest housing development, which is providing 276 new homes, enabling its

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Our 25-year product guarantee is a powerful testament to our belief in the quality of our BRANZappraised board.

residents to connect and be active community members.

Other examples include decking at Auckland International Airport, installation in a range of schools throughout the country, including Mt Maunganui College and Oromahoe School in Northland, and waterway pontoons in various locations from Whitianga to Fiji.

Why do so many New Zealand architects enjoy working with Biform?

All of our decking products are BRANZ appraised and are aligned with Australian Building Code Standards. We are FSC certified and exceed NZ building code with regard to fire testing requirements.

Our new generation composite decking aligns with the need to build in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner. This alongside quality fixing and installation systems appeals to architects.

In what ways does Biform combine functionality and aesthetics to create products that stand out?

We draw up designs for clients free of charge with a specific layout design for each deck and our stylish range of colours provides a contemporary feel and a look that won’t age.

What design trends do you foresee taking the lead in decking and screening, and how does Biform align with these trends?

We see a continuing trend towards the use of sustainable materials in design and building and the use of new design and manufacturing technology to improve product performance.

Sustainability doesn’t start and end with the choice of materials. We need to understand the full life cycle of products we use and their long-term impact on the environment.

contemporary pale greys similar to silvered hardwoods through to warm brown tones emulating stained or oiled timber. These blend easily into any setting and our three different profiles fit easily into domestic and commercial settings.

Could you share some customer-favourite collections from Biform and the stories behind their creation?

Our first commercial project was at the Aitutaki Escape, and it turned out to be a fantastic site. A stone walled garden featured palm fronds hanging over it with the pool surrounded by lush plantings. It turned out to be the ultimate proof of how our decking can blend effortlessly into a natural environment. It was installed by a small team from Nelson. The logistics and the heat were challenging, but the little extension to their work week when the job was done was worth it. This was installed in 2009 and is still going strong.

In the best way possible, we’re comfortable that our photos speak for themselves. Our design focus has always very much been about blending in with whatever exterior and interior context all of our decking and flooring products are installed in. We are particularly proud of our colour selection in allowing us to achieve this.

What role does New Zealand's natural beauty play in influencing Biform’s designs?

Living in New Zealand, it’s hard not to form strong bonds with the land and the seas surrounding us. One of our proudest achievements was to have our product selected for the walkways for the Kauri Dieback programme for Auckland Regional Council. There can be no greater endorsement than being entrusted to provide the pathways to the spiritual guardians that are our treasured ancient kauri.

How does Biform cater to various types of outdoor spaces, from domestic to more commercial applications?

Our three decking profiles and colour range feature

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November 2023

MAL AGA ARMCHAIR

ANSON COFFEE TABLE RECTANGLE

ANSON DINING TABLE

TAMPA LOUNGER

SANTA MONICA 3 SEATER SOFA

OXFORD PARK BENCH

MARBELL A OT TOMAN – BL ACK T WIST

ANSON SIDE TABLE – SET OF 2

5 9 T h e S t r a n d , Pa r n e l l 0 9 9 3 0 6 2 6 8 | h o m e @ r e f i n e d l i v i n g . n z | w w w. r e f i n d e d l i v i n g . n z

Alfresco Feast Ten of the best outdoor dining spaces.

WORDS — ROBYN ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY — GREG COX WARREN HEATH ELSA YOUNG

From the romantic to the playful, the elegant and the easefully everyday, these enviable outdoor dining spaces add an extra dimension of wellbeing and charm to the lifestyles of the homeowners who relish spending time in them.

Previous page: Summer lunches with the family are regularly taken in this alfresco dining area. Shaded by a vinecovered pergola that ensures the space is sheltered from the intense summer heat – and fills it with dappled, green-tinted light – this dreamy space is redolent with heritage elegance.

Right page: This formerly forgotten urban backyard was transformed into a sun-splashed, terraced garden and outdoor cooking and dining area. Its renovation, which was accomplished on a strict budget, included adding a built-in barbecue and creating a shaded dining zone. Painting the floor a crisp white has also added to the box-fresh feel of the space.

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Above: At this Mediterranean holiday home, the outdoor living area is a study in texture: natural stone, poured microcement, timber, river pebbles and a variety of vegetation come together to create an integrated and welcoming space. For alfresco eats, a large cast concrete built-in table is provided, which its designer says will “weather and age so beautifully – in ten years’ time it will look even better than it does now”.

Home & Design

Right page: This boldly colourful, extensive veranda really is an outdoor room: it includes both dining and lounging areas, and via the use of glass folding doors on two sides, can be closed up during more inclement weather – or completely opened to the elements in the summer months. It adjoins a compact, formal garden and an inviting swimming pool, and as an added bonus, the views from the space are spectacular.

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Left page: The stylish owner of this historic villa says its outdoor living area – which features a swimming pool as well as this delightful vine-covered gazebo – is like “having an extra room”. And located close by is a wood-burning oven that’s as perfect for pizza-making as it is for a long, slow roast. Situated at the heart of a large, lush garden that includes mature trees, water features and vegetable boxes, this space is all about rustic charm.

Above: In a climate where year-round outdoor living is very much an option, this large covered patio is in constant use by the homeowners. It’s a muchused entertainment area too, with spaces set aside for both dining and lounging. A clean-lined dining table is paired with a mix of simple wooden chairs and a slatted bench, making dining arrangements easy to reconfigure depending on how many guests need to be accommodated.

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November 2023

Left page: Tucked discreetly away behind a stone wall in a lush, landscaped garden, this island holiday home is a perfectly private retreat for its celebrity owners, who love to linger over meals in this outdoor dining area. The tranquil scene is completed by a pair of pendant lights sourced by the homeowner and hung from the branches of the tree that shades the space during the day.

Above: “The Karoo landscape heightens the senses because there’s no clutter,” says the homeowner of this contemporary farmhouse. “There’s a simplicity there – openness and a sense of freedom.” All these elements are heightened in this outdoor dining space, which is glassed in on one side to protect it from strong prevailing winds while still allowing its users to enjoy the expansive vista.

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November 2023

Urban Masterpiece WORDS— MILLY NOLAN

In the heart of Auckland city, The Civic Administration Building has undergone a sustainable renovation that not only pays homage to its rich heritage, but also ushers in a new era of luxurious urban living. Now it’s known as The CAB.

Breathing new life into existing buildings and adding significant value to their surroundings is the signature talent of the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, John and Josephine Love. The innovative property developers have designed and implemented some of New Zealand’s most successful and impressive apartment developments, and their latest triumph, The CAB at Civic Quarter, is no exception.

Designed by world-renowned architect Andy Anderson at Jasmax, and completed at the end of 2022, The CAB represents a modern renovation of an iconic Auckland landmark – the old Civic Administration Building dating back to 1966. The heritage-listed building underwent an impressive transformation, stripping down to its steel frame and emerging as a brandnew building designed for luxury living.

“We cut out every single floor to adapt it from commercial offices to luxury apartments,” says John. “Essentially, we Home & Design

rebuilt the entire structure around the original steel frame and gave it a new facade. This effort not only preserved its historical significance, but also ensured it met all current seismic strength standards.”

Beyond its exceptional design, The CAB has sustainability at its core. “During construction, we saved over 6,000 tonnes of embodied carbon, and 98% of the construction waste was diverted from landfills to build new roads, contributing to a more sustainable future,” shares John. The structure also incorporates green design elements, such as energy-efficient lighting, rainwater harvesting systems, and solar panels, making it a model for eco-conscious architecture.

Nestled in the heart of Auckland’s thriving art and culture precinct, The CAB offers an enticing proposition for easy and lavish living. Residents enjoy effortless access to local parks, 40

shops and restaurants as well as being walking distance to the Aotea Centre, Auckland Library, Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland University, SkyCity Casino and the Ferry Terminal.

Uninterrupted vistas over Aotea Square and the city towards the harbour, along with access to a private pool, gym, theatre room and games space, enhance the living experience. Remarkably, The CAB welcomes pets – a rarity among apartment living. “The CAB really does offer an unparalleled lifestyle,” asserts John.

“There’s also a real sense of community and belonging with the residents often organising activities, from afternoon teas to rugby screenings.”

With Josephine overseeing the interior design for the entire project, the Love duo make an expectational team in the realm of property development. “While most major property developments have large corporations behind them, we are simply a husband-and-wife team,” notes John. “We complement each other perfectly, like yin and yang. I bring financial expertise with my chartered accountant’s degree and postgraduate training at KPMG, while Josephine’s education at Whitecliff College of Art and Design and her thriving design business, Josephine Design, significantly shapes the look and feel of every project we undertake.”

While inner-city living is often associated with young professionals and empty nesters, The CAB’s diverse range of apartments caters to all. Spanning one-bedroom to fourbedroom residences, each apartment boasts a generously designed floor plan, with living spaces and bedrooms thoughtfully positioned to maximise views and capture allday light. Spacious balconies seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing The CAB’s sense of luxury and distinctive character.

The Loves’ collaborative endeavours have yielded numerous accolades, not only for past projects but also for The CAB, which boasts an array of awards. Notably they received recognition at the esteemed International Property Awards Asia Pacific where they won the following categories: Private Residence - The Sky Garden, Residential Interior Apartment, and Renovation Development. Locally, The CAB has claimed recognition and admiration through several prestigious awards, including the Naylor Love Chairman’s Award for Building of the Year, Trends International Design Award for Designer Homes, and Steel Construction NZ’s Special Recognition Award.

Currently waiting for the discerning homeowner, the Sky Garden Penthouse and the two Sub-Penthouses exemplify the pinnacle of luxury living. These exclusive residences offer an unparalleled blend of sophistication, modernity, and breathtaking panoramic views, akin to what you’d expect from grand apartment in New York or London. The four-bedroom Penthouse boasts spacious living spaces, high-end finishes and an expansive central courtyard that offers a serene oasis and the best of inner-city stargazing. The three- and four-bedroom Sub-Penthouses on the floor below are equally remarkable, with one facing east to embrace sunrises, while the other captures sunsets with its west-facing position.

Visionary in every way, The CAB marks just the beginning of the exciting Civic Quarter project, with plans for three additional buildings on the horizon, including a supermarket, hotel, furniture store and commercial spaces. It’s a captivating project that promises to become Auckland’s most coveted address, adding a new dimension to the city’s urban landscape. loveandco.co.nz

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November 2023

Design of November

Philippe Malouin Topper Armchair

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Brian Sironi Revolve Vase AYTM Torus Vase

Ichendorf Milano Times Hourglass

Naoto Fukasawa HAY Pao Portable Lamp

Blue Green Works Palm Floor Lamp

AYTM Folium Vase in Amber

Piet Hein Eek Exactly Three-Sheet Cabinet

Joel Hoff HAY Turn On Table Lamp

Studio MIST-O Light Water Glass

Resene Eden Wallpaper Collection J98207

Philippe Malouin Three Seats Group Sofa

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November 2023

Seamless Design One of the key measures of success for any new kitchen is how well it fits in with the home and the family it has been designed for. This kitchen, in a period Auckland house overlooking a leafy reserve, is a perfect example of how good design can introduce modern functionality and technology and at the same time blend in with – and even enhance – the original features of the home.

The home, for a busy family of four, has board-and-batten features throughout, which inspired the use of timber as a decorative detail in the new kitchen, says designer Marianne Gailer from Kitchens By Design. "There was also a long list of practical requests from my clients, not least improving the workflow of the original cramped space by introducing defined zones so both parents could cook and prep together.

“They also wanted a display area for family heirlooms, seating for their two teenage boys and improved seating in the dining area, additional bench space in the cooking area… and last, but not least, a wine fridge.”

By repositioning the existing oven tower, more bench space was created along the kitchen's back wall, and a pull-out pantry and pull-out oil-and-spice rack are now practically located in its place. The kitchen ‘peninsula’ was moved closer to the dining, creating clear cooking and cleaning zones. “The boys now have their seats for homework at the peninsula, and I also suggested built-in window seats to improve their dining seating – and to give them more storage options.

same style mirror defines the bar area with the requested wine fridge below and a glass cabinet above to show off the beautiful collection of classic soda makers and glassware. A second pantry, with pocket doors and bench space for small appliances, clears the walk-through between the kitchen and the rest of the home.

The colour scheme and LED lighting create the desired atmosphere, especially in the evening. Marianne says the whole family is amazed at the result and calls it their new favourite room in the house.

Marianne Gailer is an Elite Designer of the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association and part of the experienced team at Kitchens By Design offering an integrated design-tocompletion service.

If you're looking for a new kitchen, please call (09) 379 3084 to make an appointment with one of their designers. Kitchens By Design's showroom is located at 9 Melrose Street, Newmarket.

For inspiration, take a look at some fabulous projects at kitchensbydesign.co.nz

“An existing feature that couldn’t be moved was the structural post, so we incorporated it into the peninsula and clad it in an antique-bronze mirror to help blend it in,” says Marianne. The Home & Design

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Visit our showroom, by appointment.

9 Melrose St, Newmarket (09) 379 3084

Old-world elegance meets modern minimalism kitchensbydesign.co.nz

www.weathermasterak.co.nz

For an in home consultation call Janene

021 274 7447

Weathermaster’s search for the best solutions for New Zealand conditions brings you a range of innovative heavy-duty awnings that delivery unparallel functionality. With three styles to choose from, spanning up to seven metres and offering a massive fourmetre depth, they are perfect for decks, balconies, shops and restaurants and more.

The Art of Floor Transformation When it comes to interior design, focus on walls, furniture, and decor is without a doubt, important. But, one of the most underestimated canvases in your home is right beneath your feet – your floors!

Painting a floor is a great way to rejuvenate or transform a living or workspace. Plus, it's a chance to make a powerful statement about your personality, style, and the function of said space. Whether you choose to embrace a timeless, elegant look with shades of white, soft, muted tones, or opt for that burst of vibrancy, your choice of colour can set the tone for the entire interior.

The Weathermaster’ Alpha External Screen System represents the latest in design, styling and functionality. Offering a full suite of External Screen systems including: MagnaTrack, Side Tension Channel (STC), Cable Guide, Straight Drop, and Pivot Arm, the Weathermaster’ Alpha External Screen Range offers a common, aesthetically appealing look across all products with a solution to meet every customer’s need. Selected Alpha External Screen products can span 6.5 metres wide and can withstand wind speeds up to 185 km/h for a 3.5 metre wide screen.

And what makes this approach particularly captivating is its versatility: opt for a monochromatic, minimalist look, or let your imagination run wild – think intricate stencilled patterns or free-flowing arty motifs. The ability to create a space that is one of a kind is at your fingertips.

Painted floors are also a practical choice, as today’s highquality floor paints and products provide durability and longevity, making for a smart, attractive investment. So, why keep a plain old floor beneath your feet when it can be a canvas for inspiration?

Favourite Floor Colours by Resene Try a white like Resene Sea Fog, a buff colour like Resene Sour Dough, weathered grey like Resene Mountain Mist, a soft blue Resene Quarter Frozen or go bold with a vivacious yellow like Resene Fuel Yellow.

Tips and tricks For best floor painting guidance, visit resene.co.nz and enter ‘painting floors’ in the search box.

Serenity™ Cantilever Umbrella’s patented technology gives you years of trouble-free use thanks to expert engineering and advanced umbrella deployment systems. Lift your world of shade with ease.

We also more umbrella to suit your individual needs.

Showroom 48E Lake Road, Northcote (By appointment only)

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Auckland’s Oldest Kitchen Maker Elite Kitchens and Cabinets business was founded way back in 1958.

While it might now, at the grand old age of 65 and qualify for a Gold Card, it remains at the forefront of kitchen and cabinetry design and service, servicing both commercial and residential markets throughout greater Auckland, North Waikato, and the Coromandel.

Verve caught up with director Hamish Ross to discover what’s cooking at Elite and began by asking about the Elite Kitchens and Cabinets’ point of difference.

“We work closely with clients to achieve their vision, while creating a functional, customised space to suit individual styles and budgets,” he says. “Listening is key. Not trying to put your mark on to their kitchen, while also offering advice so that it is still practical and achieves exactly what they’re after.”

Eco-friendly materials are sourced from the Laminex group and Prime Panels, while Elite’s spray painter follows sustainable practices, and benchtops with less silica and recycling options are available. “We’re happy to encourage clients and provide them with information regarding their environmental concerns,” says Hamish.

“We’re a one-stop shop from design through to installation,” adds the boss. “ Our onsite factory allows clients to view their project prior to installation and to make any last minute tweaks before installation.”

If you are thinking about making changes to your kitchen or laundry to make it better work for you, have a look at Elite Kitchens and Cabinets and make an appointment for a free consultation. elitekc.co.nz

Combining clients’ dream visions with their Pinterest or inspiration images they supply allows Elite to create kitchens that are as practical as they are visually stunning: “We don’t limit designs to a single option, and we consult with clients throughout the process to guarantee satisfaction.”

Consultation with other industry professionals is key, too.

“We collaborate closely with architects, interior designers, suppliers, and contractors to ensure a smooth and stunning outcome for clients,” says Hamish.

Though trends vary according to clients’ taste, lifestyle, and needs, Hamish says most people generally “lean towards either the Hamptons/Country style or the modern clean lines , with various textures and finishes”. There’s also a move away from the standard safe colours of whites and greys to “embrace bolder options and a greater variety of textures and natural materials”.

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November 2023

Everything but Ordinary The Villas in Mission Bay, 43-45 Comins Crescent. thevillas.nz

Challenging other New Zealand multihousing development models, The Villas in Mission Bay bring a unique innovative style of living designed to appeal to those unwilling to accept compromise.

With highly liveable luxury environments, these exclusive homes, in a collection of just 10, will rival the scale and quality of the large multimillion-dollar freestanding residences surrounding them. Poised on the hills above the Bay, their floorspaces range from 284 to 354 square metres.

In a tight market, due to the requirements of the Unitary Plan, most developers tend to squeeze in as many homes onto a site as possible. Terraces and apartments are usually densely configured to maximise profitability. So, these spacious homes are exceptional, offering an appealing alternative for the very discerning.

Home & Design

Three-, four-, and five-bedroom villas have been meticulously planned and designed for relaxed coastal living by architects Paterson Cullen Archaus, delivering a luxury holiday resortlike feel in keeping with this popular upmarket beach suburb of Auckland.

Grand, flowing open spaces optimise entertaining possibilities, seamlessly connecting private rear courtyards to west-facing balconies. The homes enjoy views towards the Sky Tower and Bastion Point. Indoors and outdoors merge around a sparkling communal pool and cabana set in lush gardens by leading landscaper LA4 Design.

Residents can relax in the knowledge their beautiful surrounding gardens are fully maintained by the Residents’ Association.

Chad McMan, director of Paterson, Cullen, Archaus Architects says, “The courtyard spaces provide a real point

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of difference in the design and extend the sense of space from front to back. They enable the best of both worlds – morning sun to the east and afternoon sun to the west.”

As standard in every home, family rooms offer places to withdraw for quiet repose. There are dedicated studies in all homes and two homes have versatile media rooms on the ground floor.

Bedrooms and bathrooms are also large and storage space is maximised. Rare these days, double side-byside garaging has space and charging stations for e-bikes, which are sure to be a popular option given the proximity to the beach – it’s only eight minutes’ walk away – plus the many cafes, restaurants, the coastal walkway, Kohimarama, St Heliers beaches, and a host of recreational attractions nearby.

Responsible for many high-end developments, interior designer Amelia Holmes has created a palette of neutral, earthy tones with beautiful textures making the interiors inviting and homely. They feature engineered timber floors, European tiles, and customised bathroom vanities.

Kitchens with hidden sculleries combine Miele appliances with soft-touch cabinetry, though all homes have potential for upgrades and there is space for lifts.

The project manager, Rob Miles, says the development team have created homes that they would want to live in themselves. “That’s been the ethos from day one. Here, homeowners will enjoy larger proportions on a beautiful site, neatly positioned in the heart of Mission Bay, in a quiet street and suburb, a few minutes’ walk to the beach and conveniently close to the CBD.” In this great location with their many unique attributes, he says, The Villas will appeal to a broad range of buyers: “From downsizers looking for a new, low maintenance home with generous living and bedroom spaces to families who want the addition of generous accommodation for guests and work from home professionals who will appreciate the entirely separate area downstairs in the 5 bedroom homes.

“For many, it’s an opportunity to remain in the area that residents love but enjoy a brand new, low maintenance home without having to compromise on dimensional space.”

Construction is expected on The Villas early in 2024 and the completion date will be towards the latter part of the following year.

Contact one of these agents to arrange a viewing of the display suite: Paula Halford +64 21 705 199 Louise Stringer +64 21 628 839 Rob Ashton +64 21 633 398

IMAGES: ARTISTS IMPRESSION ONLY

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November 2023

Design Talk

WORDS — PAUL LEUSCHKE

Architectural design is communication.

Obviously, there must be good communication between client and architect, but it’s bigger than that. There needs to be good communication between architect, builder and subcontractors, interior designer, landscape designer, surveyor, engineer, town planner, and other consultants.

But this is not always the case. There has always been tension between the disciplines. Engineers think architects are weird, but I like to think of engineers as process-driven as speed boats, getting from here to there regardless of wind, tides, and the distractions of a lovely beach, while architects are more like sail boats – it's the journey, going with the wind and tide, and stopping for lunch at that lovely beach. We both end up at the same place, just from different perspectives.

While architects are working through town planning, drainage, waterproofing and structurally holding the building up, interior designers are concerned with the latest interior finishes.

We are just a problem to builders. Always wanting something new or different. Often a builder will beg us for a nice architecturally deigned house as they are bored with the

standard house. They end up exhausted from having to think their way through the build and look forward to a rest on the next standard house.

But many of those new and different architectural demands become standard over time: the 2.7-m- or 3-m-high ceilings, aluminium stacker-sliders, big spans in open plan layouts, secret garage doors, ducted heat pumps, CCTV, integrated appliances, louvre roofs, and so on.

While the other consultants and the builder are experts in their field and focused on their part of the project. None of them see the whole project nor understand the clients' desires and hangups as the architect does. Architects have many client meetings during the design and documentation process. Unfortunately, they have also had to deal with the council. The others haven't and so may not understand the reason behind the decisions made. paul@leuschkekahn.co.nz 021 894 895 leuschkekahn.co.nz

continuous.co.nz

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

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

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

Our systems aren't like Lego pieces that snap together, our installers draw on decades of experience across thousands of jobs to ensure the installation is done right first time, and don’t settle

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for anything less. Choose from a range of painted coil or lifelong copper, using Continuous Spouting for your next respout or new build project will ensure a rainwater system that is not only functional but meets even the most complex of designs.

Boutique Bliss

Tuberose is an eclectic gifts, homeware and design boutique. Showcasing beautiful international products, including the transcendent range of home fragrance and aromatherapy from NEOM Organics.

The 100% natural, super-complex fragrances use only the purest possible essential oils to give true wellbeing benefits to help you sleep better, stress less, and boost your energy or lift your mood.

Available instore and online at tuberose.co.nz

Perfects gifts, all wrapped up.

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

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2-3 DECEMBER, 10AM-6PM, THE CLOUD TASTYCHRISTMAS.CO.NZ

Chuffed to Gifts chuffedgifts.co.nz

Verve chats with Alex Howard, co-founder of the company shaking up gift-giving, Chuffed Gifts.

How did Chuffed Gifts start, and where do you fit in?

My fellow co-founders and I had discussed the concept many times and knew it was good enough to shake up the gift industry. But it took covid and the challenges it imposed on the tourism industry, including our own redundancies, to kick us into action. Melissa built a website, I rented a campervan and toured the country onboarding NZ tourism businesses, and James handled the challenge of marketing a new concept to New Zealanders.

We pulled it all together in time for Christmas 2020. The concept was well received right away, and we made a real mess in James’ spare room that first Christmas fulfilling orders and shipping them all over the country! Amongst other things, I oversee our network of partner businesses – meaning a few more laps of NZ since 2020. We’re now partnered with more than 200 NZ-based experience providers.

concept to our partner businesses as an avenue to reach new customers. Every invoice represents a completion of this cycle and means that we’re doing what we set out to!

A lot of photos and videos get shared with us, and we often play these at team meetings which always brings out a few smiles.

How has a covid startup like Chuffed thrived when so many others haven’t?

We don’t really consider ourselves a covid startup, we knew the concept would be popular in New Zealand well before covid gave us the nudge. The reason we’re thriving is simple: our product is totally unique and something that New Zealanders needed to become better gift givers, they just didn’t know it yet!

As more people see or hear about us, the more word spreads.

Our gifts are constantly getting better, too, with new experiences added almost weekly, meaning people return to buy the next time they need a gift.

How does a Chuffed Gift work?

A Chuffed Gift is completely unique, a way to gift someone an experience, but letting them pick which one they want. The Gift Buyer chooses a category like Good Times for Two, we send out an exciting physical gift to put under the xmas tree, and the recipient then chooses from up to 150 experience options all over NZ. It’s no-fail experience gifting, with a fun gift instead of a sad PDF voucher under the tree!

What is it that you love about Chuffed Gifts?

I know this is a weird answer, but I love seeing invoices rolling in from our experience partner businesses! We created Chuffed Gifts to get people gifting more experiences and sold the

The Spirit of Gifting

What are some of the unique experiences on offer?

We pride ourselves on having a broad and exciting range of experiences. We’re lucky to be spoiled for choice in NZ when it comes to incredible, unique experiences! Some of our most unique options include abseiling 100m into an underground ravine in Waikato, glamping on Kāpiti Island, or a full day, hands-on farm-to-table cooking experience in Kaikoura.

There’s also heli-skiing, swimming with wild dolphins, bathing in geothermal mud, bioluminescent kayaking, and-feeding wild stingrays. I could go on and on!

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Curating Cool WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Founded by friends Gloria Griffen and Molly Scott, AWAYDAY is a curated online marketplace of preowned furniture and objects, that “shares the hottest listings and promotes local creators” while allowing the women to sell their own special pieces and offer a private sourcing service.

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November 2023

DESIGN: ALEX GUTHRIE

Verve sits down with Gloria and Molly to find out more.

“We both have backgrounds in the film industry, me in the art department, and Molly in the costume department, but we’ve dabbled in each other’s creative areas,” says Gloria. “Our work often involves hunting for treasures in op shops and beyond, trying to find pieces that tell a story and add character to a set or costume.”

Through their work, the women have developed a “trained and keen eye” for finding pieces that hold value, though not necessarily financial value, they emphasise, rather “value of form and craft”. Both their mothers, too, are “avid op shoppers and treasure hunters” influencing their daughters’ love of interiors, homewares, and secondhand treasures, “all celebrated through AWAYDAY”.

“Gloria’s mum had a furniture store and restoration business, and my mum is an interior designer,” says Molly.

“So, we were raised with interior aesthetic influence. We are both firm believers in the fact you can find such amazing pieces preloved and wanted to encourage others to source secondhand. It just felt like a pretty fun, creative way to combine and share that passion together.” Molly adds that her mum continues to her inspire with new op shop pieces almost every day, reshaping her home and space around her new treasures: “To her, the designer or brand is almost irrelevant, it's about form and shape and craftsmanship and I really admire that.”

Mothers aside, I ask who else inspires them.

The Spirit of Gifting

“We’re lucky to both work in a creative space with a huge resource of creative and design-based thinkers to pull inspiration from, and to muse with,” says Molly “For example, the costume designer I’m currently working with, Katrina Hodge, is very knowledgeable and interested in interior design also, and I’m constantly extracting from her new knowledge of designers and craftspeople.”

“My brother, Ken, provides me with much appreciated design guidance,” Gloria adds. “He also did our branding!”

Is there a story behind the name?

“It’s one we’d had banked for a while, a little unsure what we might use it for,” says Gloria. “An away day is a term traditionally used for when you work away from the office as a team. We both got into film to get away from being in an office and the name was born from that energy. We also like the symmetry of the word, AWAYDAY.” In the early days of AWAYDAY, Gloria’s vast collection of design books also served as invaluable inspiration – plus, fittingly, they’re easy to find on secondhand platforms.

“I recently bought Japanese Style by Suzanne Slesin on Webbs auction house,” reveals Molly “Although I seem to be incapable of achieving a minimalist look myself, I can’t wait to browse the pages. Japanese design is such a breath of fresh air.”

Molly is drawn to “unusual pieces” that possess “a striking form”. She loves the combination of post-modern, modern, and handcrafted pieces. “For me,” she continues, “it’s less

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There’s nothing else quite like AWAYDAY in New Zealand, further adding to their excitement.

about the individual items and more about the combination of styles in a room that feel balanced, grounded, yet striking.”

There’s nothing else quite like AWAYDAY in New Zealand, further adding to their excitement.

“I’ve always been drawn to the eclectic, the colourful, and the well-made,” says Gloria. “I can always appreciate a beautiful designer piece, but to be honest, it’s not what I’m looking for initially. More recently, my favourite finds are just the most practical pieces. Such as a set of Sebel plastic carver school/government chairs I found earlier in the year. They’re so great as I can wipe them clean from my one-year-old’s grubby fingers, but luckily, I also like the look and make of them.”

“There are many amazing furniture and homeware reselling platforms out there, but not any we know of that share other listings,” says Gloria. “We search and share listings from Trade Me and Facebook Marketplace, and in doing this we want to feature local creators, and promote local resellers, as well as featuring regular people’s listings.”

Molly adds that AWAYDAY provides a lovely opportunity for them to connect what inspires them with what is available on secondhand platforms, while promoting local creators and resellers. “We personally can’t afford to constantly keep restyling our homes, so it’s great to be able to share our inspiration and finds for others to hopefully utilise,” she says. “We have lots of ideas and hopes for what AWAYDAY could grow into – we’d love to become a private sourcing service, selling pieces on consignment also feels like a natural progression, but we’re excited to see wherever this project goes.”

“We wanted to create something that would appeal to those who are interested in homewares and design and that's a really broad audience,” says Molly. “But we want to reach people who wouldn’t typically buy secondhand and showcase to them the amazing pre-loved pieces that are available locally, whether they're designer, replica or otherwise.

We try to showcase a range of styles to help piece a home together, and as we explore and discover new pieces it's really satisfying to be able to share that with others.”

Follow AWAYDAY on Instagram @away_day, and contact them directly at awayday.edits@gmail.com . Mollys is also the co-creator of an amazing seasonal, creative community market in Wellington, called Commons Market, check them out on Instagram @commons_market .

Connecting you with your cherished ones

A LITTLE LOVE CO'S GIFT PICK

Tippl Cocktail Mixers

At a little love co, we source products from boutique brands that align with our ethos, ensuring you have beautifully curated gifts to share with loved ones all over New Zealand.

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The Spirit of Gifting Christmas gift ideas for this joyous season.

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1. Allium Brian Tunks Birgit carafe & Elias glass 2. Tuberose Bengal Tiger brooch by Trovelore 3. Molly Woppy Festive Cylinders 4. Tuberose Love, grounding and protection crystal set by Mala 5. Tuberose Bone china high tops by Jones and co 6. Tuberose Soleil eau de parfum by Fragonard 7. Love in a Jewel The Estrella Shooting Star Diamond Ring 8. Molly Woppy Festive Gift Trio Pack

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The Spirit of Gifting

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14 9. Strangely Normal ideal summer wearing Tropicana short sleeved shirt, Limited Edition, made in NZ. Custom fit available.

10. Tuberose Real luxury three wick candle by NEOM organics 11. Love in a Jewel Love Note Pendant - The Full Circle of Love (holds love note inside forever) 12. Molly Woppy Festive Boxes 13. Allium &Sunday beach towel & pool float 14. Molly Woppy Festive Plant-based Snowballs 15. Allium Elms+King spencer carry all

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November 2023

louisegray.co.nz

Changing Faces I am a professional skincare therapist, and owner of Louise Gray Skin Care, with a background as a former registered nurse.

I am obsessed with skin health. It is a correlation between what is happening internally within the body, with what is happening externally, that fascinates me.

We age, that is inevitable, but if we continue to do what we have always done, will we still get the same results? This has led me on a personal journey as a skincare therapist, and someone who is ageing. I don’t subscribe to using fillers and injectables in an attempt to cover-up the ageing process.

I have always had an incredible range of products and technologies within the clinic as we specialise in non-invasive anti-ageing treatments, but I personally needed more.

People that know me, know that I am a constant researcher, an ingredient junkie who thrives on skin histology. So, it got me thinking…

We all regularly visit our doctor, our dentist and even our optometrist for regular check-ups to ensure optimal health.

These appointments assess our current state of health, and then aid us in moving forward in the best condition. So, what about our skin?

is just like putting collagen into your bank!). I was looking to re-establish stronger, firmer skin, with having these treatments using a needling pen. I am very excited to see the next level of my results.

What else? LED light therapy. This is a no brainer, as it induces an increase in ATP, adenosine triphosphate, (energy) production from the mitochondria. Our skin, the largest organ of the body, requires substantial amounts of ATP to thrive, regenerate and renew itself. Lack of ATP results in muscle atrophy, loss of collagen and elastin, fine lines and wrinkles, discolouration, and uneven skin texture. Adding Frequency-Specific Mirocurrent treatments has been proven to increase ATP levels up to 500%, improves the overall wellness and healing properties of the body, improving youthful integrity, skin texture and luminosity.

The results speak for themselves. And last but not least is Hydrodermabrasion , which is like microdermabrasion on steroids!

These all sound great, but what do you really need? Pop in and let us create a bespoke programme around what your skin actually needs to obtain results that you are wanting.

YES, WE ARE ALL AGEING, BUT WE CAN ALL AGE WELL.

Our skin, like our eyes, is continuously changing as we age. So, as glasses that once enabled us to enjoy the pleasures of reading might now need a new prescriptive lens to function optimally, so might the treatment of our skin.

I am truly a believer that you can never replace a therapist’s hands when it comes to treating skin. But by adding in some of the latest dermal technologies, the results that I have obtained personally are very striking!

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

To begin with – CIT, dermal needling, we consider the “holy grail”, these treatments are re-organising the skin’s structure.

This treatment is not a quick fix, the results are long term (it Beauty & Health

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Are you struggling with bunion pain?

Many bunion patients are finding relief through a non-invasive treatment.

Bunions, if left untreated, cause pain, toe deformities, and walking issues. Surgery isn’t the sole choice, as it may lead to complications. Corrective Foot Solutions offers a non-invasive approach to bunion relief, improving your quality of life.

Special Offer ONLY $35 (USUALLY $105) Have an FMT podiatrist evaluate your bunion.

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correctivefootsolutions.co.nz · Level 3B, 272 Parnell Road

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

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

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

How is truSculpt iD treatment performed?

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

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

How many treatments will I need?

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

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

Is the treatment painful?

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

How long before I see my results?

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

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

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

TruSculpt ID Benefits

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

Before

12 weeks after one treatment

Before

12 weeks after one treatment

Always Delivering Lanit Anand is a specialist orthodontist.

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

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

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

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

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

WELLNESS | REGENERATION | ADVENTURE

Come Relax with us!

ortho1.co.nz

0800 BRACES (0800 272237)

RELAX AND REJUVENATE RETREATS 10-12 November - Rejuvenate Retreat with Natti Claudino, Pilates Teacher, Remedial Massage Therapist and Facilitator 8-10 December - Relax Retreat with Anne-Sofie Søgaard - Yoga Teacher & Holistic Wellness Coach

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

Get Summer Ready!

November… December… yikes!

The silly season can sneak up on you.

Thankfully, Clinic 42 has a range of treatments tailored to meet your concerns and budget meaning you can look and feel your best just in time for Christmas. Whether you’re looking for a quick boost of radiance for a special event, a total transformation to wow your friends and family, or something in between, you can find a treatment suited to your needs.

Fire and Ice Facial – $250 The Fire and Ice Facial is the perfect one-off treatment to resurface and rejuvenate your skin for a gorgeous summer glow. This indulgent ritual uses a unique combination of potent iS Cosmetics skincare with warming, aromatic exfoliators followed by cooling, refreshing hydration, resulting in an instantly more youthful complexion.

Look radiant for your festive social events without spending a fortune!

Botulinum Toxin for Frown Lines – from $350 The lead-up to the holidays can be extra busy, but there’s no need to let the stress show on your face. Botulinum toxin is a simple injectable treatment that relaxes the frown muscles, softening wrinkles and fine lines for a more youthful appearance. This quick and effective treatment will ensure you look refreshed and rested over the summer break.

Beauty & Health

Lip Hydration – $700 Luscious, kissable lips are a must for the holidays! Dermal filler contains hyaluronic acid, a superstar ingredient that attracts hydration to the lips and smooths out fine lines around the mouth. Using expert techniques, the Clinic 42 nurses can help you to achieve your perfect pout. Just 1ml of filler is all you need to start your summer with a naturally beautiful, moisturised smile.

Profhilo – from $800 Profhilo is the ideal treatment for boosting body confidence during swimwear season. The hyaluronic injectable treats skin laxity, remodels wrinkles and crepey skin, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Best of all, Profhilo can treat multiple areas of the body. As well as improving the skin quality of the face, it can tighten and lift sagging necks, tummies, knees, and bingo wings. You can even treat the backs of the hands for a more youthful appearance.

True Lyft - $1,300 Are you interested in the injectable version of a ponytail facelift for a fraction of the cost? Look no further than the highly sought-after True Lyft treatment. Clinic 42 doctors inject dermal filler into the retaining ligaments of the face to elevate the eyebrows, restructure the contours

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of the cheekbones and jawline, and lift the corners of the mouth. Walk out of your appointment looking lifted and refreshed with instant results!

WOW Treatment – $3,000 Loss of volume in the lips, cheeks, temples, jowls, and jawline largely contributes to premature ageing… but the WOW treatment can turn back the clock! After carefully assessing your individual facial structure, the Clinic 42 doctors administer 4-8ml of dermal filler to selected areas of the face. The WOW treatment significantly restores volume, returning hydration and plumpness to the skin for the ultimate summer transformation!

If you’re interested in finding out more about any of the treatments available at Clinic 42, visit our website at clinic42.co.nz or contact our reception team at 09 638 4242 or reception@clinic42.co.nz Botulinum toxin injections are prescription medicines for the treatment of frown lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow’s feet round the eyes. Botulinum toxin injections have risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if botulinum toxin injections are right for you. For further information ask your doctor or go to www.medsafe.govt.nz .

Profhilo® Medical Device Class III. For the redefinition and laxity remodelling where skin laxity is a problem.

Profhilo has risks and benefits Contains low & high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (64mg / 2ml) As your doctor if Profhilo is right for you For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier Accelagen Pty Ltd. Whanganui.

Unveil a Leaner You Lose unwanted pesky fat cells for good in just 12 weeks with Cool Body Clinic.

Part of Auckland Central Medical Centre.

November Special "If you can grab it, it's fat!"

4x areas for $1,900 Save $175 per area BEFORE TREATMENT

Chin-slimming Solution

Coolbody for Men! Unlike women's fibrous tissue, men's breasts are mainly fat. The tissue can be frozen, so long as their nipples are protected. Get in before Christmas!

Say goodbye to unwanted chin fullness, revealing a sleek, defined jawline for a more confident you.

Vanish Tummy Fat Discover a flatter, more sculpted abdomen.

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

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

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

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

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Welcome to the Neighbourhood St Heliers - Auckland’s coastal gem

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Discover the picturesque charm of St Heliers, one of Auckland’s longest established seaside villages.

Here, vibrant bougainvillea and pōhutukawa blooms brighten summertime streets as the waters of the Hauraki beckon. St Heliers truly is your gateway to the best of beachside living, Auckland style.

Whether you're enjoying a little café culture, strolling the beachside promenade, or indulging in some boutique shopping, escape the hustle of city life and explore the colourful, laid-back elegance of St Heliers.

Visit stheliers.com for an inside look at all this enchanting destination has to offer.

St Heliers Village Christmas by The Sea What a joyous way to celebrate the start of the festive season with the St Heliers Village 'Christmas By The Sea' evening.

With pōhutukawa blooming, the beautiful beach, gorgeous boutique stores, an array of cafes, bars and restaurants, and a beachside playground, this special village by the sea is the perfect destination for a wonderful celebration of Christmas, with live music on the streets, children's face painting, stores open late for relaxed Christmas shopping, and so many options for a cold drink or yummy meal with family and friends to complete your evening.

From 5.30pm-8pm, Friday 1 December.

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THE BALANCE PROJECT | balanceproject.co.nz Strategically positioned in St Heliers, The Balance Project is a productive and inspiring environment where collaboration thrives. Enhance your work-life balance with a versatile workspace solution, close to home. From hot desks to serviced private offices, working from The Balance Project combines flexibility with great local amenities and views, with an atmosphere that ignites creativity and cultivates valuable connections.

Future Foundations What happens if I lose the ability to make decisions for myself?

Life can be uncertain, and there may come a time through illness or injury that you’re unable to make decisions yourself. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead.

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf regarding your care, welfare, and financial matters if you can’t do this yourself. These legal documents can protect your best interests and ensure you and your loved ones are being looked after.

There are two types of EPAs: 1. Enduring Power of Attorney for Personal Care and Welfare. This EPA only comes into effect if you become ‘mentally incapable’ and enables your attorney to make medical or other related decisions about your care and welfare.

THE COLOUR BAR 10D Turua Street St Heliers The Colour Bar is now on trendy Turua Street, your go-to salon for the latest QiQi Vega hair treatment for fighting frizz this summer. Using new technology and sustainable ingredients, you will be impressed by the lasting results. Book your next stunning service with our talented hairstylists in our bright, modern salon and enjoy the pampering!

2. Enduring Power of Attorney for Property. This can come into effect before you become ‘mentally incapable’ or only when you’re not able to make decisions about your financial affairs.

Should you become mentally incapable before having an EPA in place, your loved ones may need to apply for a Family Court order. This can be a time-consuming and costly process. Worse yet, the judge is reliant on the information provided to them and will not necessarily know who you trust or rely on to appoint as a decision maker.

The team at Dawsons Lawyers can help arrange your EPAs and give you peace of mind over decisions made about your financial matters and personal care and welfare. Contact us today to make an appointment to see one of our lawyers at either our Kohimarama or East Tamaki office. We also offer an easy online solution through our website for creating your EPAs in your own time with the support of our team.

Claire Endean – Director dawsonslawyers.co.nz | (09) 272 0002

St Heliers Feature

REMUERA + ST HELIERS

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

The Real Deal

Semplice Cafe

Lisa Thorsen LLB/PG Cert Law

We pride to bring you the genuine flavours of Italy, in the most uncomplicated yet refined way.

· Property Consultant · Specialising in Real Estate Compliance and Residential Sales · Licensed Salesperson

8C TURUA ST, ST HELIERS INFO@SEMPLICE.CO.NZ | 09 558 3097 | IG: @SEMPLICENZ

0 21 4 4 2 6 55 | L ISA. THO RSEN@LTCO NSULTING. CO. NZ

St Heliers Feature

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barfoot.co.nz

Chosen One A chat with Amelia Dalzell, the St Heliers real estate golden girl.

You’re currently one of the leading salespeople in the Bays – why do people ask you to represent them?

People choose me for my enthusiasm and high focus. Every speck of my energy is put into the properties and vendors I work with. I have my finger on the pulse in the market and offer unfiltered advice.

Have you been through a bust and boom?

Yes. I trained in the challenging pre-covid era, around the time of the foreign buyer ban. I had a good attitude and a drive to succeed at a time when more experienced agents were complaining about a slow market. Post covid was incredible, it was fascinating to be part of a thriving market. Things started to fall in 2022. 2023 has been a plateau, but confidence in the market is building again.

Is it easier to get listings now?

I have an established presence but still must work hard to get new business. The key is establishing clients’ goals so I’m able to devise the best strategy. That’s why people choose me, because they trust my advice and because I provide options.

Is home staging still prevalent?

It’s hugely important. You’re not just selling a property, but the lifestyle. Home staging is a fundamental part of creating enticing photos and you get what you pay for, so having access to the best home stagers is essential.

How do you build a client relationship to ensure their needs are met?

I ask a lot of questions and don’t assume anything. Good follow up and being there and available when the client is ready to move is what I do best.

What do you enjoy most about real estate, and what is the most challenging?

Being a client-facing business, in people’s homes, is what I enjoy most. You’re part of key moments in people’s lives, sometimes happy and joyous, and sad at other times. The most challenging

thing is having to step outside your comfort zone. It’s certainly character building.

What have you found to be the most effective tactics to promote your business?

First comes open homes and interacting with buyers and new vendors. Secondly, client follow-up and nurturing to create raving fans who refer me to their friends. And lastly, door knocking – an oldie, but a goodie!

All-time favourite home to sell?

My first big listing – a beautiful home with gardens and pool on Vale Road, St Heliers. The campaign went gangbusters and the property was sold under the hammer following a pre-auction offer. I made the initial contact with the client through door knocking. I have these clients to thank for taking a chance on me as this campaign really catapulted my career.

Personal opinion on the New Zealand house market?

Where to for 2024?

A lot of vendors having been holding back the last 12-18 months, particularly at the higher end and in the investment market.

There’s a lot of new stock coming to market. People have the confidence now to make plans and move forward. I’m planning on being very busy over the next 18 months.

How has working in this industry shaped you?

I’m a different person. Real estate is all consuming and it will highlight all of your shortfalls in business. To be successful you have to address every personal and business fault one by one. I’m a better person for it, but that’s sales, you’ve got to be resilient and adapt. It’s sink or swim being 100% responsible for your own earnings.

Talk property with Amelia; M: 021 305 545 a.dalzell@barfoot.co.nz

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Hunger Busters WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

It’s estimated that one-third of food produced is lost or binned around the world before it reaches our dining tables, the equivalent of 1.3 billion tonnes per year.

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Studies have also shown that one in six New Zealanders don’t have enough to eat.

Kiwis chuck nearly 123,000 tonnes of food – wasting $563 per household – which is enough to feed 262,917 people or half the population of the Wellington region for 12 months. Studies have also shown that one in six New Zealanders don’t have enough to eat.

the environment and supporting their community, or even just because they want to make new friends and do something fun and productive,” she adds. “We also have volunteer groups from different businesses and organisations. It’s great for teambonding and serving your local community.”

“There is a lot more awareness around food waste now, and how we can all play our part,” says Amy Tew, general manager of Everybody Eats, a pay-as-you-feel dining concept that serves chef-prepared meals that “feed bellies not bins”.

Volunteers also power Good Bitches Baking, an initiative that supports “people having tough time” – including refuges, foodbanks, shelters, hospices, prisons, and mental health services – by donating time and baked goods.

“People are more accepting of food that might not look perfect but is perfectly good to eat,” Amy continues. “There’s still more to do to encourage food industries to minimise waste and help get food to people who need it.”

“We don’t define ‘tough time’ because it’s not our job to tell anyone what they’re experiencing but we do our best to offer a moment of kindness,” says GBB general manager Katy Rowden.

“There’s also no income or eligibility criteria for being a Good Bitch – in fact, if money is a barrier to participating, we have a Cup of Sugar fund to support GBs with the costs of ingredients and/or fuel.”

Everybody Eats is doing just that by collecting surplus food from charities and businesses such as KiwiHarvest, Kaibosh, and New World, to be cooked up by volunteers around the country and served to those in need: “We also pass on produce to other charities in this space. For example, we only cook with raw ingredients, so if we get pre-made pastries, we’ll pass them onto the local food bank.”

Amy tells Verve that their “diverse volunteer community” jump on board through many different avenues, including those who have previously been for dinner. “We have people who hear about us through social media and feel passionate about helping

Katy reveals that when the GBB founders came up with the concept in 2014, wanting to “spread a little kindness”, they could never have dreamed that it would have evolved into what it is today: an organisation of nearly 3,200 volunteers spread across 30 chapters that support nearly 400 organisations from the tip to the toes of Aotearoa.

“Our volunteers range in age from kids to people in their 80s,” says Katy, “and we have people of all genders on the roster. continues over page 73

November 2023

“We don’t define ‘tough time’ because it’s not our job to tell anyone what they’re experiencing but we do our best to offer a moment of kindness.”

We’re proud of our growth – in the past 12 months, we’ve baked 26,860 boxes of treats, blowing our target of 25,000 out of the water!”

I ask Katy why baking was chosen as their method of spreading kindness.

“Because everyone deserves a treat, no matter who they are or their circumstances,” she says. “Many people want to contribute to the wellbeing of their community, but often don’t’ know how to or don’t have the time or the means. Many of them can bake, or do deliveries, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

“A key aim of our restaurants is to help build community connections,” says Amy. “By coming and chatting to someone else you’re making a difference. We also need diners who can pay-it-forward for those who can’t pay. To help overcome this we try to spread the word through our socials, supporters and volunteer community, so that everyone knows they are welcome to come and dine at Everybody Eats.”

“I guess final success would be the end of any need for an organisation like ours because communities are so holistically healthy,” says Katy. “But for now, success is happy volunteers baking and delivering lots of treats, the amazing feedback we get from our recipient organisations about how the baking makes the people they support feel, and spreading into more corners of Aotearoa.”

“For us, success is having a full and vibrant restaurant,” says Amy. “It’s the amount of food we’ve saved from going to landfill, and the number of three-course meals served. It’s the number of people walking through the door without worrying about if they can afford to eat out or afford to eat at all that evening.

It’s also about the interactions between people. Moments of connection between diners and volunteers, especially when those connections continue outside of the restaurant.

“It might be lots of little things that happen each day, but they all add up to make a difference.”

Aside from getting a tasty treat, Katy says that recipients of their cakes “feel seen and nurtured”. “We definitely don’t claim to fix anyone’s problems,” she adds, “but think about the last time someone did something kind for you, with no strings attached. How did you feel? It’s a moment of respite.”

I ask how success is measured.

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T H E P T CH E V B E AC H CA FÉ DI S H O F T H E MO N TH Chargrilled Chicken with Asparagus, Avocado & Jalapeno Crema, Pink Grapefruit, Basil, Radish & Fried Tortilla

— 0 9 8 1 5 6 6 36 50 6 P T CH EVA L I E R RD, AU CK L AND P TCH EVBE AC HCA FE .CO. N Z

BIGGINA’S FETTUCCINE CON CONIGLIO ALL’ISCHITANA

Fettuccine with Braised Rabbit from Ischia Prep: 2 hours, plus resting

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

Method

FOR THE PASTA

To make the rabbit sauce, pour plenty of olive oil into a large casserole or Dutch oven and warm it up over a medium-low heat. Season the rabbit joints generously with salt and fry them a few at a time if it is a crowd to add them all at once; you want to saute not simmer the meat. Once all the pieces all golden, return them to the pan. Add the whole garlic cloves, the herbs and the chilli (if using) and fry for another minute. Pour in the wine and let the alcohol evaporate completely (you can tell because the steam stops smelling boozy), then add the tomatoes. Add enough water to barely cover the meat and simmer it, covered, for 2 hours.

After the first hour, taste the sauce and a piece of meat and if necessary adjust the seasoning.

275g egg or 5 eggs 20g olive oil 500g (4¼ cups) 0 flour, plus extra for dusting FOR THE RABBIT SAUCE

extra-virgin olive oil 1 rabbit, jointed, including offal and head 4 garlic cloves 3 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 red chilli, deseeded (optional and to taste) 375ml (1¼ cups) dry white wine 750g fresh flavoursome cherry tomatoes, or a tin of good-quality tomatoes salt

Dried pasta alternative: Bucatini

While the rabbit cooks, make the pasta.

Beat the eggs in a small bowl with the olive oil, then continue as with usual egg pasta dough methods. Note: the addition of olive oil makes this dough softer. Leave it to rest, covered, for 30-45 minutes.

When the rabbit sauce is ready, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 2mm. You’ll probably need extra flour to smooth over your board and pin. Once

Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking by Vicky Bennison, published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $45.00.

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you have done this, let the sfoglia dry for 5-10 minutes on your board; you don’t want it sticking when you roll it up, and you don’t want to keep adding flour. So: take some photos for Instagram! When you are ready, roll up the pasta as you would a carpet, and slice across it with a straight-bladed knife. Fettuccine should be about 5mm wide – though Biggina wasn’t bothered by width – and can be as long as you like; remember that those from Campania can be a bit thick or chunky.

When you are ready to eat, heat a large serving plate and ladle some still-hot sauce on it.

Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil, drop in the fettuccine and give the water a good stir to stop the pasta from sticking. Once the water has returned to the boil, cook the pasta for about 2 minutes before you nibble a bit. How many minutes it needs to cook will depend on how thick the ribbons are.

When the pasta is al dente, scoop it out with a spider and transfer it to the serving plate. Pour more sauce on top, toss well and serve. Reserve the meat for the main course.

PHOTOS: LIZZIE MAYSON

76

LUCIA & PINO’S BUCATINI ALLA TRAPANESE

Bucatini with Raw Tomato Sauce from Sicily Prep: 1–1½ hours

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Method

FOR THE PASTA

To make the pasta dough, combine the flour, water, and salt in a bowl. Once you have a ball of dough, knead it for 5-8 minutes on a board until it is smooth and bouncy and no longer breaks apart. This is a good workout! Resting the dough isn’t necessary. Run it through your extrusion machine using your bucatini die, cutting off 20-cm lengths. Place them on a mesh rack or floured baking sheet and spread out in a single layer, until you are ready to cook them.

400g (31/3 cups) semola durum wheat flour 160g (2/3 cup) warm water 1g (¼ teaspoon) fine salt

FOR THE SAUCE

1kg whole, very ripe tomatoes; after prep this becomes about 500g 1-2 fresh large garlic cloves 1 teaspoon fine salt 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 20 basil leaves, hand shredded 80-120g pecorino, grated

Dried pasta alternative: 360g bucatini

Now for the sauce. Cut a cross in the tip of every tomato (i.e. the opposite end from the stem, which should be removed if present) with a sharp knife. Bring a saucepan full of water to the boil and blanch the tomatoes for 30 seconds.

Transfer the fruit to a bowl filled with cold water to stop the cooking. Over a bowl, peel off the skin from each tomato, halve and scoop out the seeds. Keep the flesh and the juice.

30 minutes. And if your sun isn’t hot enough? Warm (don’t bake) the toms in a preheated oven at 50°C for 20-30 minutes. This will help develop the flavours.

While the tomato mixture is warming up, bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Time the pasta cooking so that it is ready when the sauce is. This means following the instructions on the pasta packet, or allowing 5 minutes of cooking time for the fresh pasta before nibbling a strand every couple of minutes until you are satisfied the strands are al dente.

Drain the bucatini very well and combine with your sauce and the pecorino. Serve immediately.

Cut the tomatoes into 1-cm cubes and place them in a heatproof pan with the juice. Turn the garlic into mush by chopping it finely with the salt. Stir it into the tomatoes with the olive oil and shredded basil leaves. Place the pan of mixed ingredients in direct hot sun for

Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking by Vicky Bennison, published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $45.00.

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PHOTOS: LIZZIE MAYSON

78

IRMA’ S KROPFEN

Leek and Cabbage Ravioli from Trentino Prep: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

Method

FOR THE FILLING

First, make the filling. Chiffonade the cabbage leaves (i.e. slice them as thinly as possible) and cook the two batches of leaves in simmering salted water until just tender (how long this takes will depend on the cabbages you have bought, which in any case will have different rates of cooking, so it’s better to cook them separately so you can judge ‘doneness’ better; it could take 3-10 minutes). Drain through a sieve and continue to press the cabbage against the mesh to make sure as much moisture is removed as possible. You should end up with about 200g each of green and white cabbage. Retain a cupful of the cooking water.

1/3 head of savoy cabbage, tough stems removed 1/3 head of white cabbage, tough stems removed 1 leek, trimmed and washed 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil 200g various mature cheeses such 24-month parmigiano reggiano, pecorino or mature cheddar – anything with zing and bite 50g fresh breadcrumbs pinch of salt FOR THE DOUGH

100g (2/3 cup) rye flour (or wholemeal if rye is difficult to find) 300g (2½ cups) plain (all-purpose) flour a pinch of salt about 200ml (scant 1 cup) warm water TO SERVE

75g unsalted butter 6 sage leaves

Chiffonade the leek, then soften it in a little butter or oil in a sauté pan. This will take a good 7-10 minutes over a low heat, adding a little cabbage cooking water if needed to stop it from colouring. You’ll end up with about 100g of cooked leek.

Leave it to cool while you grate your cheeses. Now mix them with the cabbage, leek and the breadcrumbs in a bowl. The cheese is salty, but the filling needs to be well seasoned: taste and season with a little salt.

Now, make the pasta dough. If you are using wholemeal flour, sift it first to remove any flakes of bran. Mix the two flours together with the salt in a bowl or your board, then gradually pour in the tepid water, mixing it in with a spoon or your fingers; you may not need all of it. You want a dough that is not sticky

Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking by Vicky Bennison, published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $45.00.

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to the touch. Knead it for 10 minutes until smooth (it might take a bit longer if you’re not used to this dough). Place it in a lidded bowl and leave it for 30 minutes.

Cut the dough in half so you don’t work it all at once and dry it out. Roll out one half to a thickness of 3mm using a rolling pin. Cut it into strips 10cm wide, then place 30g pieces of filling (a large walnut size) at 10-cm intervals along the strip. Take one long side of the pasta and pull it over the filling to meet the other long side. Pat down between the bumps, trying to get out as much air as possible.

Take a ravioli cutter and cut between the filling to create pillow-shaped ravioli.

Repeat this process until you have used up all your pasta dough.

Bring a large saucepan of water to a gentle simmer and add a tablespoon of salt. Allow the water to return to a gentle bubble, then lower the kropfen into the water (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for about 7 minutes.

Remove from the pan and place them on a platter, keeping them warm in the oven if necessary (if you’re cooking them in batches). While the kropfen simmer, melt the butter in a frying pan over a low heat and gently sauté the sage leaves for about 4 minutes until they are fragrant. Dress the kropfen with the sage butter and serve immediately.

PHOTOS: LIZZIE MAYSON

80

IDA’ S CHOCOLATE BUNET

Chocolate Pudding from Piedmont Prep: 1–1½ hours, plus cooling

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Method

FOR THE CARAMEL

Mix the water with the sugar in a nonstick saucepan, place it over a medium heat and, once it starts simmering, reduce the heat and – without ever stirring it – cook the caramel for about 10 minutes until it is a honey coloured.

Carefully pour the caramel into a 30 x 13 x 8 cm loaf tin and try to line the bottom and sides evenly (one of those silicone brushes can be helpful here). Let the tin cool down while you prepare the custard mix. Preheat the oven to 180°C (gas 4).

100g (½ cup) caster (superfine) sugar 100ml (scant ½ cup) water FOR THE CUSTARD

100g Amaretti cookies 100g toasted hazelnuts 100g dark chocolate, grated 50g unsweetened cocoa powder 1 litre (4¼ cups) full-fat milk 8 eggs 120g (generous ½ cup) caster (superfine) sugar 1 tablespoon rum 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

The custard needs to cook in a bain marie, so half-fill a large roasting tin with water. Place the tin in the oven while mixing the custard ingredients.

Use a food processor to blitz the Amaretti cookies and toasted hazelnuts to a coarse crumb, then add the dark chocolate and the cocoa powder and pulse it until becomes powdery. Be cautious about this – overdo it and the chocolate will melt.

into the caramel-lined tin. Remove the roasting tin from the oven, place the loaf tin in the middle and return it to the oven.

Bake for 45-60 minutes until set. Start testing it with a wooden skewer after 45 minutes; it should come out clean when you stick it into the middle of the custard. Remove the loaf tin from the oven, take it out of the water, and let it cool before un-moulding it onto a platter.

First, release the sides by gently running a table knife along the edges of the tin, then reheat its bottom by placing the tin in a small amount of hot water for about 45 seconds. Pat the base dry. Place the platter over the tin and flip it, while making sure you clamp the plate and tin together.

Be decisive; gravity will ensure the bunet escapes the tin. Serve in thick slices.

Warm the milk until you cannot stick your finger in it, but it’s not boiling. Beat the eggs with the sugar in a large bowl, then add the warm milk, rum and vanilla extract. Stir through the dry ingredients then transfer the about-to-be custard

Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking by Vicky Bennison, published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $45.00.

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PHOTOS: LIZZIE MAYSON

82

BIGGINA’S FETTUCCINE CON CONIGLIO ALL’ISCHITANA

LUCIA & PINO’S BUCATINI ALLA TRAPANESE

IRMA’ S KROPFEN

Biggina was the youngest of nine children. Her first job on her parents’ small farm was to move the rotted manure to the vegetables using a basket on her head. She did this after school in the mornings. At school, she loved history: “I loved the stories and the drama, even though my teacher was a fascist and only wanted to talk about certain events.” She was able to stay on at school until she was 11 years old, after which she worked full-time on the farm, growing mostly tomatoes that she’d sell in the local market.

The flour mill Mulino Fiaccati di Roccapalumba feels hidden and secret, perched on the side of a tumbling riverbed, deep down in a boulder-strewn ravine and surrounded by prickly pears in the fields above. It’s hard to imagine that once, in the days before machinery, the wheat fields were full of farmworkers who would come to eat their lunch at the mill. This is the region of Sicily where the commercial production of dried pasta was first noted in the 12th century.

Irma’s family have an osteria, Albergo Rosa Alpina, in a hamlet called Palù del Fersina. It’s 20 kilometres and a world away from the city of Trento. Pine-clad slopes give way to tumbled fields stippled with ancient apple trees. And dotted about are small farms, where dairy herds are husbanded and cheeses are made (of course) – the farmers don’t bother to name their cheeses as their production is so small. Only sturdy vegetables grow here, such as potatoes, cabbages and leeks. So these ravioli are no surprise when you gaze down the valley over the village rooftops and survey this landscape. The surprise is that kropfen aren’t better known because they are hearty, savoury and just the thing after a day’s hiking.

Her sister got a licence for a stall in the main market in Ischia, where she remembers swapping a basket of grapes for apples, “and that was the first time I had ever tried them!” Biggina also weaves her own trays – they look like rimmed tennis racquets with short handles – and in her retirement continues to sell these, along with foraged herbs and capers. “It’s how I meet people! What am I going to do? Sit on my own up here?” She has the most stunning views of the coastline and sea, so it would be understandable if that is what she wanted.

Rabbit was her family’s main source of meat, only eaten on special occasions.

Centuries ago, the islanders developed a unique way of rearing them called coniglio di fosso. They dig a 3-metrewide by 4-metre-deep stone-lined hole, like a well, where the rabbits are then able to make their own burrows and socialise as they would in the wild.

Biggina also reared rabbits like this and grew the grasses to feed them.

Rabbit is an excellent lean meat, but you may prefer to swap it for six skinless chicken thighs on the bone. On the island of Ischia, this dish is commonly served with bucatini, a popular dried pasta.

These days, Pino is the custodian of the mill and he showed us a wonderful wooden contraption used to extrude pasta dough through a bronze die to form bucatini (spaghetti with a hole through the middle). If you are a pasta fan you can do the same by buying a hand-operated torchio or an attachment for your food mixer. The pasta needs durum wheat flour, the slightly gritty kind called semola in Italian, and water.

To stop it from sticking as it goes through the extruder, the dough needs to be a little drier than when you roll it out by hand. You should allow 40g of water (or 40 ml/2½ tablespoons, but weighing it is more accurate) for every 100g (2/3 cup) of flour. In other words, 40% hydration.

This will make a stiff dough. Or, buy a packet of bucatini; look for good quality pasta to make the most of this very simple recipe.

Pino and Lucia’s recipe is a Sicilian summer in a bowl. Sunshine is one of the ingredients you will need for this dish; the kind that shimmers as the cicadas’ strumming makes your eardrums feel they are being electrocuted. Pick basil that has also been sun-blasted, as this brings out the clove fragrance of the herb. And, of course, choose goodquality tomatoes; look out for fleshy Italian varieties like Roma, San Marzano and Pachino.

IDA’ S CHOCOLATE BUNET

Bunet is a classic dessert from Piedmont and every home cook has her version of it. This is 93-year-old Ida’s recipe, or rather her mother-in-law’s recipe because Ida learnt it from her. She likes to serve it for Christmas, and it’s an ideal sweet to have up your sleeve for the holidays, as it’s simple to make. Ida is one of our ‘star grannies’, women we return to to film whenever possible, and she features in the first Pasta Grannies book too where she shares stories of her life.

Traditionally this is a brick shape, but you can of course experiment and serve individual portions.

Pasta Grannies: Comfort Cooking by Vicky Bennison, published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $45.00.

Food & Wine

Irma says only 10 people in the village make them. She is kropfen’s champion and is determined this recipe should not be forgotten. When I visited her, Irma had collected the 13 different cheeses she says are necessary to make the filling – this probably has something to do with to the 13 apostles, and using up all the bits and pieces of cheese which collect in the larder. Since Grana del Trentino, formaggio di malga, Vezzeina and Montasio are pretty tricky to find outside the region, I suggest you gather your own collection of aged cheeses and make kropfen as soon as there’s a frost outside.

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PHOTOS: LIZZIE MAYSON

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

Stoneleigh is situated in the heart of the stone-studded area of Rapaura on the northern side of Wairau Valley in Marlborough, between the Wairua River and the Richmond Ranges, known locally as the Golden Mile of Vineyards.

Stoneleigh takes its name from ancient stones scattered widely throughout the vineyard, where some of the oldest grafted sauvignon blanc blocks have been planted. The stones reflect the sun’s heat up into the vines, enhancing the ripening process and contributing to the wines’ unique tastes.

The Stoneleigh brand is owned by Pernod Ricard, a major French international beverage organisation who own other wine brands including Brancott Estate and Church Road.

Below are two wines from the total range that are worth exploring.

’22 Stoneleigh Rapaura chardonnay; RRP $27.

An authentic expressional wine from Marlborough displaying dry crisp characteristics with subtle oak aromas and a soft mineral finish on the palate. At its best when paired with seafood, grilled fish, chicken, pork, and summer salads.

’21 Stoneleigh Wild Valley pinot noir; RRP $19.

A consistently appealing wine that’s light-to-medium bodied with rich flavours and ripe tannins that was the champion pinot at the National Australia Wine Awards. A real crowd-pleaser.

Works well when served with pork, duck, and roast chicken.

DENNIS and ROSAMUND KNILL Quietly tucked away at the bottom end of Queen Street is one of the city’s newest boutique hotels with one of the most accomplished restaurants, Cooke’s.

The spacious and relaxed restaurant complements Fable Hotel’s reputation for high quality, and traditionalists will find tried and trusted dishes competently cooked and attractively plated.

Entrées include Clevedon oysters ($35); tuna ceviche ($26); buttermilk fried chicken ($25); smoked salmon ($28); tomato sorbet ($24); and ravioli ($22). A collection of timeless mains includes lamb rack, peas, sunflower seeds, pinot jus ($46); eye fillet, salsa verde, baby carrots ($48); fish of the day with lentil, smoked red cabbage, fennel, ($37); and chicken breast, prosciutto, mushroom, butternut puree, edamame ($38). Further irresistible textbook creations like tiger prawns, bottarga and lemon oil ($34); kumara and buffalo ricotta gnocchi ($29); and spaghetti, black olives pesto, mushrooms, courgette puree, with crispy bread ($48) all merit recommendation.

And don’t skip desserts ($22)! While some may favour honey panna cotta, poached pear, confit rhubarb and strawberry sorbet millefeuille, perhaps the awardwinning cheeses, fresh fruit, quince, honeycomb and crackers ($30) might be a better option.

The wine list, the Achilles heel of so many hotels, leads the way with a vastly focused and consistently impressive package of international and local vintages available by the bottle and the glass.

And the verdict? The latest addition to the Accor Hotel Group comes with genuine hospitality, fair prices, and charming and well-organised service all teamed with a switched-on kitchen that has reinvigorated hotel dining.

A very solid newcomer.

Menu: 7.5; cuisine: 8; wine list: 8.5; service: 8; decor: 8.5; value for money: 8.

58/60 Queen Street, City; 09 368 9603; cookes@fableauckland.com

A Taste of Perfection

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theterracesrestaurant.co.nz

A hidden gem in Glendowie has been quietly redefining the luxury dining experience.

The Terraces, tucked within St Andrews Village, has been flying under the radar because of its unexpected location, but is quickly emerging onto Auckland’s luxury dining scene as a culinary oasis for local residents and the wider community.

Entering the restaurant, one can instantly feel the sense of calm. Everything in the space is meticulously curated, from the plants and airy decor to the noisecancelling acoustic panels that line the ceiling. A wall of glass windows bathes the space in light and provides spectacular views of Waitematā Harbour and Half Moon Bay opposite.

It is to the credit of the hospitality manager Lloyd Lewis that the restaurant – and the connecting movie theatre and hair salon – runs with such composed efficiency, greeting guests by name and offering a personalised service that The Terraces prides itself on. He doesn’t just want people to have an enjoyable meal, but an experience they will never forget. Together with head chef Ranjit Badwal, they bring decades of hospitality experience to The Terraces, using all they have learnt to create something unforgettable.

The menu features classic dishes like steak Diane, chicken paillard, even a whole flounder, rarely seen in restaurants these days. But the menu is far from static. Each season, Chef Ranjit develops a new menu, featuring seasonal ingredients, specials, and creative flavour combinations. He brings both international and local influence into his cuisine, ensuring that the flavours and presentation of every dish will blow guests away.

Their delicious signature dish – the seafood chowder – features fresh seafood straight from New Zealand waters, while all their game comes from free-roaming farms of Marlborough, and oysters and crayfish are sourced from Bluff and Matakana. Combined with an extensive wine and gin list, The Terraces is the perfect place for a unique ladies’ lunch, romantic dinner, or special celebration.

Commencing 13 February, The Terraces will be highlighting live entertainment with a three-course, set-dinner menu.

This first show will feature NY jazz singer, Katie Martucci, over in New Zealand for the Auckland music festival, accompanied by accomplished 89

acoustic guitarist, Mark Mazengarb.

The Terraces also offers ‘Friday night live’ once a month, featuring local and international artists that you can listen to while enjoying a cocktail or a glass of champagne.

Mother’s Day brunch is also hugely popular, as is their Christmas Eve set lunch menu. It is also the perfect place to see in the new year, with a set menu and without the noisy crowds of late-night revellers.

The Terraces is bringing back fun, oldschool luxury dining in an impressive fashion, an experience you won’t soon forget! They’re open every day, offering dinner service Wednesday through to Sunday. The restaurant is also available for private functions, alongside a movie theatre next door that seats up to 53 people, and is available for private hire.

So, leave the bustle of the city behind and indulge in the impeccable service and delectable food that The Terraces has on offer.

November 2023

mollywoppy.co.nz

Crazy About Cookies In anticipation of the sweetness that is the festive season, Verve called in for a bite with Hayley Molloy, who founded artisan cookie company, Molly Woppy, with her partner, Alistair Parker, 21 years ago.

How did the idea for Molly Woppy come about?

We are both passionate foodies who have worked in the hospitality industry for years. Alistair is a well-known chef whose signature biscotti used to get rave reviews with customers continually asking where they could purchase it.

So, we took the leap and decided to start our own business. It all began in our Pt Chevalier home, juggling two toddlers and Alistair still working in restaurants and as a private chef. It was so much fun, but we soon outgrew our purpose-built kitchen at the back of our house and moved into our premises in Avondale in 2003. We’ve continued to grow, adhering to the same family core values over the last 21 years.

Can you tell us about the story behind the name, ‘Molly Woppy’?

Growing up in Auckland, we religiously listened to the Sunday kids’ shows on the radio and one of the stories was Molly Whuppie. With my last name being Molloy, my family earned the nickname ‘The Molly Whuppies’. Fast forward a few years, we were looking for something unique and Molly Woppy felt like the perfect fit – nostalgic, whimsical, and part of our family!

What sets you apart from other similar businesses?

hasn’t wavered in over 21 years and we have built a brand that continues to be loved by generations of Aucklanders. We only use the best ingredients and make our cookies by hand. Being a 100% Kiwi-owned and operated business and supporting our local economy is something we’re also very proud of.

What are some of your most popular products?

Both big and little kids love our Gingerbread Kids, which are all iced and decorated by hand using all-natural ingredients. We do gluten-free extremely well and are often complimented on creating products that don’t taste like cardboard! Launched in 2021, our plant-based range has won a raft of awards, which is so satisfying as baking without butter or eggs is not easy! And our seasonal ranges always sell out every year, baked with fun, festive shapes using traditional flavours.

How do you source your ingredients, and do you prioritise using local or sustainable options?

Sustainability is at the front of everything we do. We source from suppliers who align with our values, we review our packaging annually, and strictly adhere to internal food waste policies.

We take great care in the ingredients that we use – the integrity of our products is key. We have focused on building a brand that people love. Our obsession with creating good food

We love supporting our local economy where we can, so always prefer local suppliers, and we also connect with ethical suppliers. It’s important to know where the ingredients have

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Love what you do – being passionate about what you are creating is essential.

come from and what suppliers’ values are when it comes to fair trade, pay and working conditions.

What have been some of the main challenges you’ve faced?

Growing from a small to a medium-sized business was a challenge but we have enjoyed this process. Seeking advice externally from the right people has been critical to our success.

Are there any exciting plans on the horizon for customers to look forward to?

Growing our gluten-free range is important to us - we love being all-inclusive bakers! Everybody deserves delicious cookies. Also, our seasonal range has hit the shelves at selected gourmet food stores nationwide including Farro and selected New World and Countdown supermarkets. They’re authentically Christmas with festive shapes and flavours, and we are proud that they sell out every year. We love spending time – and love – creating new, innovative flavours – watch this space! There’s always something baking away in the oven.

How important is community to your business, and are there any charitable initiatives you're involved with?

We love local! Being a part of the Auckland community for the last 21 years, supporting local and our local economy is a core value. We belong to our local business association, join in on community events, and support our local foodbank, Vision

West. We also regularly donate to Trees that Count, in part to mitigate our carbon footprint but also because we know our donations are staying within New Zealand. Oh, and we support the Auckland Ronald McDonald Family Room with gluten-free cookies.

How do you develop new cookie flavours or products?

Being foodies, we’re obsessed with creating new flavour combinations that we know people will love. We love coming together as a team, trying new flavours and love a good taste testing session! Our ingredients matter so we have a careful selection process when choosing what goes into our cookies.

All ingredients are premium, but our top ingredient is love!

Our commitment to producing high-quality cookies is strong and the love that goes into it is our taste of difference for every cookie.

What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own food businesses?

Love what you do – being passionate about what you are creating is essential. Enjoy the process, work hard, and don’t be scared to ask for outside advice. Don’t be afraid to employ people who know more than you. Look after your staff and help build their careers – lifting your employees up is extremely rewarding.

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November 2023

E THICA L HE DONI SM NOW AVA I L A B LE AT CO U NTDOW N A ND SU PE R M A R KE TS NATION WIDE www.gratergoods.co.nz

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The Days the Music Died WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

94

On 8 April 1994, electrician Gary Smith arrived at a Lake Washington mansion to install some security lighting and made for the garage to begin his work. There was a greenhouse above the garage, and, as Smith traced some wires along the roof, he saw something unusual through the glass.

“I noticed something on the floor, and I thought it was a mannequin,” Smith told Seattle’s KIRO TV at the time. “So, I looked a little closer and geez, that's a person. I looked a little closer and I could see blood and an ear and a weapon laying on his chest.”

The person was Kurt Cobain, singer, songwriter, and lead guitarist of rock band, Nirvana, who had taken a lethal heroin dose before shooting himself three days earlier. Both his sister and mother heard of the singer’s death via radio reports, with the latter remarking to reporters that her son had “gone and joined that stupid club”.

The ‘stupid club’ is the 27 Club, named so because it features a list of artists – predominantly musicians – who died at the age of 27. Before Cobain, there was Rolling Stones co-founder Brian Jones who was pulled from the bottom of his swimming pool in 1969, Jimi Hendrix who died of an overdose in 1970, and Janis Joplin, who also died of an overdose the same year. The Doors frontman Jim Morrison suffered catastrophic heart failure while in the bathtub two years to the day that Jones passed, and, in 2011, Amy Winehouse became the latest high-profile inductee into that most cursed of clubs – her cause of death being alcohol poisoning.

Charles R Cross, who has published biographies about Cobain and Hendrix describes the number of musicians that die at 27 as “truly remarkable”, noting that “there’s a statistical spike for musicians” who pass away at that age. However, a study published in the British Medical Journal in 2011 found there to be no spike in deaths at age 27 (though they did find that famous musicians in their 20s and 30s to be up to three times more likely to die than the general population) leading to the New York Times to declare the 27 Club as “rooted in myth”.

Astrologers believe that there is something of the mystical about the number 27 – it is around every 27 years that we experience our Saturn Return, a time when the planet returns to the exact same position in the heavens as when we were born.

It is a period said to herald significant life changes, perhaps even existential crises, crises which may just steer especially sensitive, creative souls down a path of self-destruction.

Then there are the conspiracy theories: Jones was rumoured to have been murdered over unpaid debts, Hendrix might have been bumped off because he wanted to get out of his record contract, while Morrison either suffered an overdose or faked his own death (conspiracists are emboldened by the fact that no autopsy was ever performed). Many still believe that Kurt

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“James Court, a music biographer and author of The 27 Club, believes the inductees are further immortalised by their inclusion...”

Cobain was murdered and that his musician wife, Courtney Love, was somehow involved. (Two months after Cobain’s death, Kristen Plaff, the bass player in Courtny Love’s band, Hole, died of a heroin overdose; she was also 27 – the third member of the Seattle music scene to die at that age within 12 months.)

Howard Sounes, author of Amy 27: Amy Winehouse and the 27 Club, describes the phenomenon as “pure coincidence” but does note that the club’s ‘big six’ names all had “strikingly difficult childhoods” that involved using drugs since their teens and showing signs of personality disorders from a young age.

Both Jones and Joplin suffered bipolar disorder, while Morrison and Cobain were obsessed with suicide – which is also linked with self-harming, which Winehouse did, too. “They all,” writes Sounes, “had a death wish.”

fascinating, and “weirdly glamorous” as they never “get to retire, or decline”.

As Kurt Cobain wrote in his suicide note, “it’s better to burn out than to fade away”, a quote from the Neil Young song My My, Hey Hey, something which Young has admitted has scarred him greatly. “I, coincidentally, had been trying to reach him,” writes Young about the time around Cobain’s death, in his autobiography, Waging Heavy Peace. “I wanted to talk to him. Tell him only play when felt like it.”

And now, when Young plays live, he adds extra emphasis to another line from the song, “once you’re gone, you can’t come back”.

James Court, a music biographer and author of The 27 Club, believes the inductees are further immortalised by their inclusion (some call it The Forever 27 Club), becoming even more

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Face Off WORDS — BELLA SAMPSON

Picture this, you’re at an old friend's birthday party chatting to a pal, when someone comes up to you, and cheerily says your name with a smile and something along the lines of “nice to see you again!”

You have no idea what their name is.

Perhaps their face is vaguely familiar, or maybe you’re completely blanking. You greet them back with matched enthusiasm after that oh-so-subtle pause as you frantically search your internal ‘name and face’ Rolodex, while your friend you were talking to waits to be introduced.

This happens. All the time, to pretty much everyone. Depending on who it happens to, you’ll hear myriad excuses such as “oh I’m getting older”, “I’m bad with names”, “I’m tired”, “I’m so forgetful!”, “baby brain”, “you look different”, and so forth. The common link across most of these reasons is that they’re self-directed admonishments.

Let’s be clear, that’s something you definitely can’t do because you have no idea who the other person is and it would surely be rude to confess.

Yet, realistically… how many names and faces are we supposed to remember?

While this area of academic interest is relatively new, there are several interesting components to factor in. Firstly, a 2018 study by Burton and Jenkins, proposed that the human brain can store between 1,000-10,000 names and faces from their research participants' results. That number includes public figures such as celebrities, as well as people the subjects had met or could recognise and describe.

The study stated that the average person can remember 5,000 faces and names.

After a few minutes of slightly awkward conversation between the three of you, your friend goes “sorry, I’m Sarah…” as the stranger introduces themselves. You laugh and say, “And I’m rude, sorry, I thought you two knew each other!”

It's a lie. But admittedly less of a faux pas than disclosing that you have no idea who the person is that you clearly once made an impression with. Or, maybe you’ve forgotten their names seconds after an introduction. It’s always an awesome feeling when you start a new job with a nameless mass of friendly co-workers who remember your name.

According to multiple pages of results from the oh-so-reliable source that is Google, we purportedly meet, or will have met, around 80,000 people by the time we’re 71 years old. Meaning, we’re taking in the names and faces of sixteen times more people than most of us can store.

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Unconsciously our system prioritises who our primary remembered thousands will be.

The authors of the previous study kindly surmised that when we scold ourselves for not recognising someone's face or recalling their name, we’re putting an unrealistic amount of pressure to perform on our minds, and ultimately on who we are. As we scold ourselves for this “deficit”, we’re actually thriving past capacity. Unconsciously our system prioritises who our primary remembered thousands will be.

Another area to think about is that our large-scale urban lifestyle is relatively new. Up until 11,000 years ago, the majority of people lived in social groups of around 100 people.

Due to the smaller global population, they purportedly rarely interacted outside of these groups.

As we began to expand our social groups and develop, our ability to frequently travel long distances was, for the masses, restricted until 200 years ago. Additionally, with the introduction of various forms of digital and print media, we now recognise an exorbitant amount of people whom we may never speak to. Our relatives of the early 19th century had a global estimated population of one billion people and were likely to have met 10,000 or fewer people in their lifetimes.

Despite all of our developments, I have to agree with Burton and Jenkins. Our ‘need’ to remember so many people is something that is incredibly recent to us as a species. We have, on average, eight times more interactions with new people and a global population that is eight times the size of what our ancestors had only 200 years ago. It’s absurd to expect an evolutionary pole-vault past where we are currently in regard to recall and recognition.

Ultimately, while you may not remember that person's name at the party, or your new co-worker after being introduced to so many people on your first day - that’s okay! It’s normal, you have a powerful internal computed that’s doing amazing work.

Whilst you can’t exactly pick and choose who you remember, a simple mnemonic can make memorisation easier. For instance, your friend's new partner Andy loathes all seasoned food: *Bland-y (*note: if caught, say you had a mental glitch and accidentally said your name and his name together). Your lovely long-time neighbour Grace, who just is.

Or, in the case of that party, a redhead aptly named Rose. We’d met once 19 years ago in a small town I lived in for two months as a child. Ridiculous. But I did remember her once she started talking about said town.

Rose’s mnemonic wouldn’t just be the name connection. The awkward memory and location would add layers, moving her over to a more recognisable spot. As I was closing my eyes later that night, I felt my internal name-to-faces Rolodex flick over to 10,001 with the new name card addition. Okay, maybe it’s not close to that number, but I’m genuinely impressed with the amount our brains manage to store, and I hope you are too.

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Caretakers of History

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WORDS— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Framed by the silvery, twisted limbs of pōhutukawa that intertwine overhead to form a canopy akin to an inverted cradle, the drive into Purewa is heavenly.

Dappled sunlight adds to the ethereal effect, a fitting entrance to one of Aotearoa’s grandest cemeteries, a thoroughfare directly into a Garden of Eden.

Residential homes dot the 3km perimeter, their gardens facing historic grey tombstones that emerge from undulating, pristine green lands sprinkled with colourful blooms and guarded by hundreds of handsome native trees that hum with birdsong and occasionally give way to sprawling views of Auckland. Benches are deliberately positioned for moments of reflection. There are even walking tracks. There is a definite sense of community, strange as that may be to say about a cemetery – but this is no ordinary cemetery. There is an aura to Purewa, the final resting place of some of New Zealand’s most important and impressive figures, in the Pourewa Valley in Auckland’s eastern suburbs.

“People do use this as a community park, which we love,” Purewa general manager, Alastair Crombie, tells Verve.

“People jog here, walk their dogs, and even have picnics on the grass. We want to provide that space for people to meet and to remember. It’s a role we take very seriously.”

Alastair tells of a mother, Miriama, who started a wildflower planting programme following the death of her teenage son.

What began as a personal project to help process her grief blossomed into an ongoing community project. “It was in an older part of the cemetery and many of the graves were no longer visited,” recalls Alastair, “so she started a volunteer group from the local community who came in to plant more wildflowers. They continue to visit a few times a week.”

Further community relationships have been built with local schools, retirement villages and Probus Clubs. A walk- and cycleway that connects the eastern suburbs to the CBD skirts the edge of the cemetery, and there are plans to open a portal to that too. “We just want to be as inclusive and welcoming as possible,” adds Alastair.

Alastair made his “random career change” later in life, having previously travelled the world making documentaries for the BBC and various other organisations. It was work that regularly took him to remote villages in Africa, “getting ushered into little huts, being offered a drink and something to eat – you can’t understand each other, but you create a connection”. Personable skills that are transferable to his current role. “We would find scenarios and tell stories,” Alastair says. “And we tell a lot of stories here.”

Purewa, established in 1889, is described as an “open air museum” that serves to preserve the memories of national leaders, military figures, artists, and entertainers. Wellknown names include the businesswoman and philanthropist Marianne Smith-Caughey, founder of the department store Smith & Caughey’s; Maurice Paykel, co-founder of Fisher and Paykel; and New Zealand’s 31st prime minister, Sir Robert Muldoon. Lesser known, but equally remarkable “notables” include that of Walter Batty, the first Tongan All Black and hero of the second world war who earned the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) for his single-handed combat against German tanks.

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But Purewa looks to embrace its future as much as it honours its proud past.

Walks along its memory lanes can be complemented by its website and smartphone app, offering interactive maps, video and narration by the playwright Sir Roger Hall and the poet and actor Peter Bland. Digital tours of notable graves include Courageous Women and the upcoming Theatre, Artists and Writers tour. In the works are also digital memorials, which will allow families to visit a certain site or station and sign into their smartphone or tablet to access their loves one’s story. “They could go to a plaque or beneath a tree to sit and reminisce and reflect,” says Alastair. State-of-the-art tech is accompanied by equally modern facilities including recently refurbished chapels and reception lounges, with both catering and streaming services also offered.

Alastair believes it a privilege to aid families through some of their darkest days. Both he – and the volunteer-run board – take pride in their roles as “custodians” of these historic grounds.

“It’s just such a special place, so well put together and in harmony with nature,” he says. “Just the other day someone commented about how beautiful it is, and how thankful they were that their loved one is buried here.”

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CHOICES OF FINAL REST “Services are certainly becoming more creative and celebratory,” says Alastair. “We’ve had Scottish pipers and horse-drawn carriages – we can accommodate pretty much any idea.”

Purewa also offers the country’s largest range of options for burials, cremations, and memorials. As well as traditional and natural burial plots, these include: • Ash Berms positioned in open lawn spaces in the shade of mature trees. Plots can hold two sets of ashes, with space for plants and plaques.

• The scenic Walk of Memories, designed to accommodate up to two sets of ashes accompanied by tablets or plaques, that will eventually wind around the entire perimeter of the grounds.

• The Small Headstone Ash Lawn, spread across a suntrap and surrounded by trees. Two sets of ashes can be interred beneath the headstones.

• The Columbarium, an above- or in-ground memorial that houses ashes. An idea that dates back to the Romans, columbaria are an especially environmentally responsible, space-saving option.

• The Kidney Gardens, among Purewa’s most popular options with good reason owing to their vibrant flowers around a central cherry tree. With space for ash interments and plaques.

• The Mosaic Butterfly Pathway, designed by artist Joy Bell, allows for parents to place colourful ceramic tiles in memory of their lost babies on a pathway that circles an old oak tree.

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“I Don’t Need a Funeral” Why those you leave behind do.

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davisfunerals.co.nz

“Put me in a cardboard box and put me out with the rubbish” This is a phrase that’s heard all too often these days.

Many people believe that having a funeral will be a burden on those left behind, a sad event that everybody feels they ‘have’ to attend. The truth however, is a far cry from this modern belief.

Different cultures have been honoring the dead for thousands of years in many different ways and the downturn of this in recent years is now manifesting itself in negative ways. Ways that are affecting people’s ability to progress on their individual ‘grief journeys’. A funeral does not need to be traditional, religious, public or ‘fussy’. What is important, is to find the appropriate level of comfort and create something that feels right.

Decades ago, a funeral was a much more straightforward affair with a church service, and a burial. But now we have ceremonies for a broad mix of cultural and religious groupings in the community. At Davis Funeral Care, we direct, deliver services and observe the required cultural rights and rituals for Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Catholic, Maori and Pacific Island families as well as secular and non-denominational families.

Today’s funeral can be as traditional or modern as you like.

Many people now find a service at home, a beach, a sports club, hall or other such a setting, provides meaning and puts mourners at ease.

Remember – funerals are held for the living because they are the ones who need to move forward in their grief.

In life, we plan things for ourselves. Weddings, birthday parties, pregnancies, purchasing a home, overseas holidays, all major

life events really, except our funeral. Why is that? We know it’s going to happen, it’s more certain than anything else in our lives yet we avoid planning it, talking about it, even thinking about it in some cases. Why not create a funeral that’s right for you? You’ll get to choose just how you would like everything to be and your family won’t need to stress when the time comes, they’ll be able to concentrate on being together and sharing stories about all the good times.

It is a common belief that putting all this information in your Will ensures that your wishes will be met. However, in our experience, this does not always happen. Often family members can not find the Will, or it is left in the care of a Solicitor, and is not read for many days or weeks after the person has died.

Suddenly the family realise that they haven’t fulfilled the final wishes of their loved one.

For this reason, at Davis Funeral Care, we offer free, no obligation pre arrangement meetings, either at our premises or at your home. Using one of our free future planning guides, your wishes can be left with us, a trusted family member or friend.

And how much would my funeral likely cost? Simple, we can provide an estimate so that you can prepare financially.

Recognising the future impacts of inflation on costs over time, the estimate can be updated at any stage by calling us.

With such a variety of funeral homes across the country, it’s important to choose one that you can trust. This means looking for one that belongs to the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand and that has qualified Funeral Directors. continues over page 109

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Members of the FDANZ are professionals committed to ensuring that the families they serve receive high quality service. FDANZ members are required to observe strict criteria, including codes of ethics and conduct, mandatory ongoing training, and nationally recognised qualifications. By choosing an FDANZ member, you’ll be reassured that they have high quality standards and the very best in service and care.

Davis Funeral Care has five branches across the greater Auckland area, Mt Eden, Henderson, Kohimarama, Pakuranga and Papatoetoe.

To speak to one of our funeral directors you can simply call us on 09 638 9026 or send an email to office@davisfunerals.co.nz and we can arrange a time to answer any questions or help you make plans for yourself or for someone else.

By choosing formally trained Funeral Directors, with ongoing training requirements, you’ll know their knowledge and understanding of grief care, best practice and legislative requirements is always up to date.

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Live Better, Longer WORDS— MILLY NOLAN

IMAGE: LIVE TO 100: SECRETS OF THE BLUE ZONES

Imagine living a life full of vitality and joy, where age is just a number, and each day is a celebration.

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Enter the world of Blue Zones, those enchanting corners of the world where people not only live longer but thrive while doing so.

These remarkable regions have something to teach us all.

habits and way of life of centenarians — people aged 100 and over.

The Blue Zones Guide to Living to 100 and Beyond:

With a knack for finding the fountain of youth, the Blue Zone concept was coined by longevity evangelist Dan Buettner, a National Geographic explorer. Hopping around the globe, he uncovered five regions where people seem to have unlocked the secrets of time: Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California, USA). Despite their vast geographic and cultural differences, Buettner found shared traits that enable the inhabitants to enjoy not only longer lives, but also better lives.

In a world where fast food and sedentary lifestyles have become the norm, the docuseries offers viewers a captivating glimpse into the lives of those who hold the key to a long and vibrant life. So, what distinguishes these centenarian-saturated populations from the rest of us? Surprisingly, it isn’t anything revolutionary; rather, an accumulation and combination of small daily habits, a good attitude and their environment that reinforces their value, dignity, health and happiness.

DIET Food plays a starring role in the Blue Zone lifestyle. Fast food and sugary drinks are virtually non-existent; instead, meals are thoughtfully prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These regions prioritise plant-based nutrition, with vibrant diets featuring vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and olive oil. Fish is consumed occasionally in some Blue Zones and meat a rare indulgence for most. All of the diets are rich in nutrients, antioxidants and antiinflammatory foods.

Having written several bestselling books on the subject over the past 20 years, Beuttner’s new four-part Netflix docuseries Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones takes a deep dive into the subject of longevity, looking at the

While the secrets to a fulfilling, lengthy life according to the Blue Zones may not be shrouded in mystery, they hold an enticing promise: that we can all unlock the fountain of youth should we so desire. Or, for those seeking a shortcut, a one-way ticket to Greece or Sardinia wouldn’t go astray...

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NATURAL MOVEMENT Instead of investing in gym memberships that are only sporadically used, the Blue Zone natives seamlessly weave physical activity into the fabric of their everyday lives. Walking where they

November 2023

IMAGE: LIVE TO 100: SECRETS OF THE BLUE ZONES

In the Blue Zones, stress is something they have learned to keep at bay through relaxation techniques such as meditation, prayer, or daily short naps. need to go, manual labour and tending to their gardens are part of their daily existence. Being outdoors in nature and their aversion to a sedentary lifestyle keeps them agile, sharp and spirited.

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS Strong social bonds are the glue that binds Blue Zones communities together. These societies cherish their relationships, spending time with family and friends, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, and emotional support. These connections not only reduce stress but also improve mental health and longevity.

STRESS MANAGEMENT In the Blue Zones, stress is something they have learned to keep at bay through relaxation techniques such as meditation, prayer, or daily short naps. Life in the Blue Zones also moves at a slower pace, devoid of haste. They savour their quality of life over the pursuit of wealth and status. This recipe

Circle of Life

for calmness and serenity diminishes the risk of stress-related ailments, providing a happy and extended life.

SENSE OF PURPOSE People in these regions often have a strong tie to their community and find meaning in daily activities, whether through religion or helping others.

Taking care of their elders is a sacred duty, and because if this, you won’t see many retirement homes in the Blue Zones. This sense of purpose and connection to something greater than themselves is paramount for longevity.

MODERATE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION In some Blue Zones, such as Sardinia, they toast to life with a modest amount of red wine. For these inhabitants, it’s all about moderation, and when paired with a healthy lifestyle, an occasional sip poses no harm. Alcohol is typically enjoyed during social gatherings, complemented by a nutritious meal.

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FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY For some Blue Zoners, religion and spirituality are big players in the longevity game. The Seventh-day Adventists in Loma Linda, for instance, attribute their strength, sense of peace and resilience to their faith-based lifestyle.

ENVIRONMENT Fresh air, access to locally sourced food, and a lifestyle that encourages outdoor activity are common factors in the Blue Zones. These natural blessings contribute to their overall wellbeing and vitality.

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Wairarapa Wonders

It’s been nearly 200 years since wandering shepherds first experienced the warm embrace of what was then a farmstead at Wharekauhau – te reo for ‘place of knowledge’ – cradled between the Remutaka Ranges and the churning surf of Palliser Bay in the southern reaches of North Island.

A couple of centuries later, animal husbandry and manaakitanga remain an integral part of the Wharekauhau Country Estate, spread across 3,000 acres of untamed Wairarapa wilderness, while its luxury lodge makes headlines both in Aotearoa and abroad. Similarly, the region’s newest hospitality establishment, The Runholder, also nods to its site’s agricultural past through its name (a runholder is someone who manages sheep or cattle) and spectacular architecture which mirrors a contemporary, airy barn.

Just last month, the Edwardian hideaway was named the best resort in Australia and the Pacific at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, and one of the top 50 resorts on Earth.

It’s the latest in a long line of accolades in recognition of the prestige of a lodge which is part of the Relais & Châteaux luxury hotel group, a favourite among European royals. (Wharekauhau even hosted Princess Katherine, Prince William, and their son Prince George during their visit down under a few years back.)

unique ability to draw you into the landscape – it’s a magic that is often underestimated until it’s experienced. I meet many people that come to relax with a good book and within an hour of being onsite they are deep in conversation with our team.”

Fit for royalty it may well be, but what is nearly as striking as the surrounds is the easy-going hospitality which is much welcome in a setting so grand it could easily overwhelm – indeed, Richard proudly describes the vibe as “jeans, boots, and labradors” (his chief hiking officer is Merlot the Labrador, and watching the farm dogs round up the estate’s sheep is fun, too). As soon as you enter the palatial estate, you’re immediately made to feel part of the Wharekauhau whānau.

“What makes Wharekauhau special is our people and place,” says general manager, Richard Rooney. “Wharekauhau has a

US billionaire businessman and vintner Bill Foley and his wife Carol purchased the site in 2010, a decade after their first visit, having fallen madly in love with Aotearoa – particularly this corner of it. (The director James Cameron is a sometime neighbour – he owns a nearby farm.) Foley has also purchased the vineyards Te Kairanga, Martinborough Vineyard, Vavasour, Grove Mill, and Mt Difficulty, as well as the Lighthouse Gin distillery, and invested heavily in other Kiwi hospitality ventures.

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And it is that sense of community, of history, and of local pride that adds another dimension to this remote and resplendent alcove of Aotearoa New Zealand.

After the grand welcome in the two-storey grand main lodge (think open fires – where you’re likely see Merlot the Labrador snoozing – open kitchen, antique furnishings, a games room, a library, a massive table for socialising, and nooks for reading), guests are steered to one of 16 nearby 70sqm cottage suites.

The handsome cottages afford spectacular coastal views – even from the bathtubs in the marble bathrooms – and feature fourposter beds, open fires, walk-in wardrobes, exposed overhead beams, wool carpets, and hemp curtains, with predominant shades of white, cream, and sand.

But first, you should work up that appetite.

For the ultimate upgrade, the three-bedroom 418sqm Foley Villa was where the British heir and his family stayed (and Catherine even apparently helped do the dishes), replete with an underground wine cellar, an infinity pool, and a private chef.

Be ferried around the extensive estate in the latest Land Rovers, taking in the glassy lakes and lush pastures en route to sheep shearing demonstrations or to try your hand at clay bird shooting. Or opt for a thrilling ATV tour, tearing up the black beach, muddy fields, and rocky riverbanks atop a quad bike, meeting locals like the cattle and friendly eels who pop up for a pet like puppy dogs! If not quite as cute.

The estate’s executive chef, Norka Mella Munoz, is a magician who manages to reimagine hearty, “nostalgic” classics using ingredients raised, grown, and foraged from the estate. There is still an active beef and lamb station onsite, and seaweed is even gathered from the beach – farm-to-table doesn’t get much more literal than this! Even more impressive is that Norka manages to rustle up new menus of regal feasts daily with the promise “no one goes to bed hungry!” And of course, given the region – and the estate owner – there is wide selection of Foley Wines, alongside other local offerings, US wine, and French champagne; the list stretches to around 700 bottles. Meals are served in a sophisticated setting with white tablecloths or opt for a private meal in front of an open fire.

There are the usual activities you’d expect at such a destination, including a fitness centre, all-weather courts, a heated pool, an outdoor hot tub, and hiking and biking trails. But it’s those imaginative extras that make Wharekauhau stand out. The Hauora Spa continues the kitchen’s ‘made by hand from the land’ philosophy using the likes of Pacific Ocean salt and mānuka honey in its treatments which are inspired by ancient Māori healing techniques.

Though, it is good old Mother Nature who perhaps puts on the best show as the breathtaking mountainous coastline disappears beneath the glittered black carpet of the South Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

Off-site trips include scenic helicopter flights and chauffeured vineyard and winery tours, including to The Runholder, the region’s newest establishment – and the new home of Te Kairanga, Martinborough Vineyard, and Lighthouse Gin. continues over page 121

November 2023

PHOTOS: SAM CAMERON PHOTOGRAPHY

Positioned between expansive strings of vines and Martinborough Terrace – and providing spectacular views of both – The Runholder was designed by Nott Architects of Christchurch, its inspirational barn-like space incorporating a restaurant, tasting room, and private dining room. Downstairs, wine sits in oak barrels, while the gin distillery, the region’s first, makes New Zealand’s oldest craft gin using spring water from the Remutaka Ranges, overseen by Rachel Hall – a leader in her field and Aotearoa’s first female head distiller. It’ll be the best G&T you’ve ever tasted!

what Martinborough Vineyard is all about, is crafted using their oldest vines in honour of Wairarapa’s original winemaker.

The all-star lineup continues with expert viticulturist Dave Shepherd as well as Te Kairanga winemaker John Kavanagh and Martinborough Vineyard winemaker Paul Mason whose rare, new release, and library wines can only be found at The Runholder. Wines such as Te Kairanga’s Pinot Noir 2022, a hand plunged vintage, derived from nine clones and aged for 10 months in French oak, known for its depth, its alluring crimson colour and ripe, fruity palate. The rich, spicy Marie Zelie Reserve Pinot Noir, a “kaleidoscope of aromas” that epitomises

And it is that sense of community, of history, and of local pride that adds another dimension to this remote and resplendent alcove of Aotearoa New Zealand. An Eden made by hand from the land.

Journeys

Head chef Tim Smith – formerly in charge of the kitchen at Wharekauhau – continuous the celebration of local produce with sharing platters, pizzas, and charcuterie boards complementing wine and gin tastings, and a seasonal menu of tomahawk and wagyu steaks and lamb ribs. Seafood is sourced from the Tora Collective, a sustainable setup established by a family who have fished the local coastline for generations.

wharekauhau.co.nz therunholder.co.nz

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We envisage a future where every Tāmaki Makaurau community is strong and thriving.

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199 Main Highway, Ellerslie 1051, Auckland 09 281 3 481 office@ellerslieveterinaryclinic.nz

ARTMENT

H O LS

QUE

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Quest has turned 25, and there’s a lot to celebrate.

STAY IN THE HEART OF CHRISTCHURCH Quest on Cambridge opening this November. Enjoy introductory rates from $135 per night for stays from 15th November 2023 to 14th January 2024*.

OUR SUSTAINABILITY QUEST We’ve replaced almost all single-use plastic toiletries with dispensers - removing 3.68 tonnes of plastic out of circulation.

We’re also recycling old soap bars into new ones together with Soap Aid. Find out more at soapaid.org *Rates start at $135 for a studio and $155 for a 1-bedroom apartment all booked via the Quest App and the Quest website. All bookings must be for stays between November 15th 2023 to January 14th 2024 to qualify for the introductory rate.

QUESTAPARTMENTS.CO.NZ

tauposfloatplane.co.nz

+64 7 378 7500

Taupō’s Floatplane is one of the region’s top things to do.

Our high-wing Cessna 206 seaplane promises a scenic flight you won’t forget, with a water take-off (and landing), and unrestricted views of sparkling lakes, snow-capped peaks, geothermal wonders, surf beaches, and lush forest, including Tongariro National Park, the Bay of Plenty, and of course, Lake Taupō. Check out our scheduled scenic flights, or book one of our packaged combos.

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“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles” Tim Cahill

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Long weekends and our awesome One Day Wonders.

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Now booking for 2024 / 2025

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ROXBURGH GORGE TRAIL

CONTACT: 0800 245 366 NZ freephone | INFO@BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ | BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ

WIN A $500 GIFT CARD

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The Humble Bach An Oeuvre

RUSSELL’S CABINS, WAIPARA VALLEY kumikosnz.com/russellscabins

Journeys

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WORDS— AIMÉE RALFINI

Traditional Kiwi holiday homes, affectionately known as “baches,” hold a sacred space within New Zealand's cultural identity.

These abodes are more than mere amalgamations of wood, concrete, and stone; they serve as living repositories of cherished memories, longstanding traditions, and the intimate rhythm of family life. They stand as tangible emblems of our profound connection to nature, a living testament to the Kiwi ethos of an easy-going, unpretentious way of life.

Over the past century, the architectural narrative of New Zealand baches has woven a captivating tale, mirroring the ebb and flow of lifestyle preferences, technological advancements, and shifts in cultural sensibilities. In its nascent stage, these holiday homes were humble abodes, often characterised by weathered timber frames, perched gracefully on the shores of coastal retreats or the serene edges of lakesides. These early baches were built primarily for the essence of shelter, with minimal inclination towards intricate aesthetics or architectural opulence.

As the 20th century progressed, the influence of traditional styles began to harmonise with a modern design ethos. The iconic Kiwi bach underwent a transformation, embracing cleaner lines, multifunctional spaces, and more durable construction materials. Designs started to incorporate larger windows, serving as conduits for an abundance of natural light and expansive, picturesque views. Elevated decks became common features, seamlessly connecting inhabitants with the breathtaking surrounds, forging an immersive bond with the environment.

structures like yurts, tepees, and domes. These innovative designs, influenced by global architectural movements and spurred on by a growing awareness of sustainability, offer unique, low-impact living experiences. Yurts, originating from the vast steppes of Central Asia, offer a harmonious marriage with nature, their circular forms maximising energy efficiency and environmental integration. Tepees, inspired by the time-honoured traditions of indigenous North American cultures, meld seamlessly with New Zealand's rugged, untamed landscapes. Domes, with their geodesic forms, not only confer structural stability but also serve as a canvas for ingenious, energy-efficient designs.

These modern interpretations of bach architecture are not only a testament to an expanding appreciation for diverse global design philosophies but also a spotlight on a collective shift towards sustainable, low-impact living. In an era of heightened environmental consciousness, these alternative structures stand as embodiments of New Zealanders' ingenuity and their unwavering commitment to coexist harmoniously with their natural surroundings.

In essence, the evolution of New Zealand bach architecture weaves a narrative thread from unassuming, utilitarian structures to innovative, nature-conscious sanctuaries. It is a story of adaptation, a harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity, ultimately underscoring a profound reverence for the awe-inspiring landscapes that define the quintessential Kiwi holiday experience.

In recent decades, a radical departure from conventional bach architecture has taken root. Bold and eco-conscious homeowners have enthusiastically embraced alternative 127

November 2023

worldtravellers.co.nz/stores/ milford-and-mangawhai

Out of this World Some roaming insights from Caroline Imrie, Director and Senior Travel Advisor of World Travellers.

What are the advantages of booking through World Travellers compared to planning a trip independently?

World Travellers are dream-makers. When customers contact World Travellers Milford or Mangawhai, we don’t just send them away with catalogues, we spend time learning what their dream trip would consist of, from things like whisky tasting to bike rides and then build a trip to suit their needs.

Can you share some standout experiences that cater to travellers looking for something extraordinary and off-thebeaten-path?

Our slogan is ‘Experience the World Differently’, that’s what we do! We build dreams, from intrepid trips to luxury cruises, or a superyacht around the Croation Islands. Or how about watching bears teach their young how to catch salmon? We can make it happen.

How does your agency prioritise traveller safety, and what kind of flexibility do you offer in case of unforeseen circumstances such as cancellations or changes to travel?

I offer all clients a 24/7 contact. Travelling today is generally safe and we won’t send anyone to a destination that is not recommended by the NZ government. Post covid, airlines are still rebuilding and from time to time, there may be a reason for a change – this is what makes us unique. Call and we will sort your issue out as quickly as we can. This has been of huge value to some of my clients that have experienced delays or cancellations – we look after you, even whilst you’re away and in the middle of the night here when you call me because the airline cancelled your flight !

Could you share a memorable customised travel experience you created for a client – one that truly showcases the level of detail and care that go into your service?

We’ve done so many! I have sent clients to Vietnam and arranged private pickups, and then tours in their own cars with private drivers and guides who met them at each destination.

A highlight of their trip was a cycle ride along the Mekong River stopping to make, cook, and eat lunch with a local family. Or, for another couple, where we rented them their own launch in France and they travelled down the river stopping at villages with their own bikes to ride around locally. They also stopped at vineyards route to taste the local wines. I even added in a whisky tour of Scotland which was another dream of theirs.

We really do it all, we make those dreams come true!

We are mobile so we come to YOU !

P: 09 320 3514 M: 027 449 2349 E: caro@wtm.co.nz Journeys

You deserve a unique and rejuvenating experience Step into a world of lavishly premium geodesic dome accommodation, explore the dramatic scenery, and discover the wonders of Lake Hāwea, near Wānaka. With all the creature comforts of a lavish home away from home, Cross Hill is where paths cross, stories are shared, and memories that last a lifetime are made.

LAKE HAWEA, NEW ZEALAND CROSSHILL.CO.NZ | STAY@CROSSHILL.CO.NZ 027 226 0290

bawahreserve.com

Bawah Reserve An Indonesian Paradise Nestled within Indonesia's Anambas Archipelago, Bawah Reserve stands as an eco-luxury haven where natural beauty and sustainable indulgence coexist. This exclusive retreat offers an unmatched experience for travellers seeking a tranquil escape, in the heart of the South China Sea. A true masterpiece of nature, it comprises six lush, forest-covered islands and three clear lagoons. The resort is committed to environmental stewardship, featuring a state-ofthe-art sustainability programme,

from water filtration systems to waste management, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.

Accommodation options at Bawah Reserve are elegantly designed overwater bungalows and beachfront villas, providing breathtaking views and total privacy. Guests can explore the vibrant marine life with guided snorkelling or take to the sea on a paddleboard, kayak, or yacht. Spa treatments, yoga sessions, and delectable dining complete the sensory experience.

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Immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Bawah Reserve and discover a harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and sustainability in a corner of the world where paradise is very real.

How to get to Bawah Reserve Due to our faraway location, the best way to get to Bawah is on our private seaplane which takes off from Hang Nadim Airport in Batam, Indonesia, easily accessed from either Jakarta or Singapore. For enquiries: reservations@bawahreserve.com

November 2023

alpineluxurytours.co.nz

All Aboard!

Verve takes a ride with founder of Alpine Luxury Tours, Lee Saunders.

What motivated you to found Alpine Luxury Tours and how has it evolved?

The motivation came from within, to create and customise tours for the luxury market and meet amazing people from the world over and offer them bucket list experiences like never before.

I’ve worked hard to make Alpine Luxury Tours what it is today, nurturing relationships with locals and agents and giving back to our environment through our sustainability programme.

Having grown up in and around Queenstown, I know the region like the back of my hand; and if there’s somewhere I haven’t been, it’s likely because I know at least five places that beat it!

What makes Alpine Luxury Tours so special?

We’ve worked hard over the years to create long-lasting relationships with landowners, businesses, and local suppliers, allowing us to provide exclusive, bespoke experiences. Our ability to be flexible and tailor tours gives our guests the very best experience. Our guides work tirelessly to provide a tour like no other.

surprising our guests with freshly shucked bluff oysters and champagne. An incredible experience beneath the towering waterfalls and hanging glacier above. A moment in time they’ll never forget.

What advice would you give someone planning a trip to Queenstown for the first time, and why should they consider booking a tour with Alpine Luxury Tours as part of their itinerary?

Firstly, you’ve picked the best place to visit! Secondly, let us know your interests, location – we do cater for full New Zealand tours – timeline, and budget, then let us do the rest. We’ll cater to your needs and requirements and allow you to have the holiday of your dreams. Throw in a bucket list experience or two and you’ll remember this holiday for many years to come!

To find out more call 027 257 4632 or email lee@alpineluxurytours.co.nz

What sort of vehicles do you use?

We use only Mercedes Luxury European vehicles with leather seats, more leg room, and the highest safety regulations.

Our guests will remind us frequently how comfortable and accessible our vehicles are. We believe that if our guests are comfortable and at ease it transforms their experience from an okay one, to the luxury experience we provide.

Your tours often include wine and culinary experiences. Tell us about your favourite food and wine pairing experience?

We have fantastic wine and food pairings but one that stands out was flying into Middle Earth Waterfalls via helicopter and Journeys

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The Art of November

CURATED BY— AIMÉE RALFINI

This month's selection serves to illuminate our spirits and inspire our souls to envision a brighter, more harmonious world. It highlights the profound connection between nature and human creativity, in celebration of life's cyclical beauty.

IMAGE: HELEN CALDER. COURTESY OF TWO ROOMS

TWO ROOMS Lighting the Path & The Tidy Behaviour of Matter Gretchen Albrecht & Helen Calder 11 Nov – 21 Dec

An exhibition of vintage and new works, Gretchen Albrecht is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s preeminent abstract painters. Albrecht’s sensuous colour palette and stained canvas’s act as a generous counterpoint for rhythmic patterns of gestural movement, form and scale. The tactile quality of the work, with its assured swirling brushstrokes, resonates strongly with Albrecht’s allusions to an inward sense of order engaged in a perpetually dynamic relationship with the underlying

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rhythms of a natural, mythological cosmos. Helen Calder's practice actively teases out the problem of painting's identity, through dissembling the medium to its constitutive parts: pigment, surface, support, site. Surfaces and supports have been cleaved apart, with paint and armature reconfigured to suggest new relationships.

16 Putiki Street, Grey Lynn. tworooms.co.nz

November 2023

MELANIE ROGER GALLERY Chart of Aotearoa V Stanley Palmer 25 Oct – 18 Nov

New work by renowned New Zealand painter Stanley Palmer continues his exploration of his beloved Aotearoa in this new series of oil paintings. These are quintessentially New Zealand places captured by one of our most admired landscape artists. This exhibition will feature nine new works - the fifth in his ambitious series revisiting and charting his favourite locations throughout the country.

STARKWHITE Star Stare Start Bonco 20 Oct – 19 Nov

The artist’s first solo exhibition with Starkwhite, this show investigates the unseen world through eye popping works, each of which took roughly 100 hours to paint and embody metaphor in their physicality. Bonco uses geometric painting to explore the existential questions through metaphor and process.

94 Newton Road, Newton. starkwhite.co.nz

444 Karangahape Rd, Newton. melanierogergallery.com

ANNA MILES GALLERY Reverse Monopoly Big Wigs Richard Stratton 28 Oct – 16 Nov

A new exhibition of twisted and rebuilt wares from the "Teapot meister of Karori', Richard Stratton.

Stratton's abundant ceramic stream of consciousness is the result of encyclopaedic knowledge of industrial pottery technologies and unrestrained curiosity about any controversy in the social fabric. In this new series, wild clay and mowed verges meet cronyism and nuclear cooling towers.

BERGMAN GALLERY

10/30 Upper Queen St.

16 Nov – 21 Dec

Five Painters Roy Good, Gavin Jones, Louie Bretaña, Rhea Maheshwari, Llenyd Price

annamilesgallery.com

Five Painters features five diverse intergenerational New Zealand painters, who each use a unique approach of applying acrylics to their paintings.

From Roy Good’s very carefully applied sleek colours to mark-making styles of Gavin Jones. From Indian dreamscapes of Rhea Maheshwari to ancient Filipino celestial deities covered in glitter and glass crystals by Louie Bretaña, and Llenyd Price’s landscapes derived from drawings, photographs, and memories that are distorted and layered.

2 Newton Road, Grey Lynn. bergmangallery.com

OPEN STUDIOS Waitākere Various artists, including Maria Owens 18-19 November

Maria paints intuitively and gets inspiration from her surroundings, music and the mood she is in. She paints to lose track of time, to be totally absorbed, to be mindful of shapes, colours and lines. “Open Studios is my favourite time of the year,” she says. “It’s a great way to have a chat with artists in their home/studio. I will have new mixed media paintings available, a few vessels and sculptures. Plus I will have a sale on my earlier works." Every time a painting is sold Maria donates to Trees That Count so a native tree in New Zealand will be planted in the region the buyer is from.

MAKERS GALLERY Precious Vessels Rosie Parsonson & Richard Darbyshire 19 Nov – 2 Dec

Since 2013 Whangārei based artists Rosie Parsonson and Richard Darbyshire have collaboratively developed their practices together in the ceramics discipline. In this exhibition, the engraved lines and brush work composed by the hand and mind of Rosie, sits over and around the vessels and forms thrown and sculpted by Richard.

143 Marua Rd, Mt Wellington. theclaycentre.co.nz

31 Kopiko Rd, Titirangi. mariaowensart.com

* Sponsored Exhibition *

THE ARTS SOCIETY AUCKLAND Io Saturnalia: Happy Christmas the Roman Way Gillian Hovell, UK 8 Nov. 7.15pm for 7.30pm

Art & About

Gillian Hovell, an expert in ancient and classical history, gives a lecture showing how pagan habits are intricately linked with our Christmas traditions. Her lecture revels in art which is both ancient and modern. Tickets: $35.

Venue: The Rialto, 167/169 Broadway, Newmarket 132

bespokegallery.com

Light Revelations

After several successful showings in Sydney, Mike Priddy will showcase his new body of work with his exhibition Lux Desuper – The light from above.

After several visits to the far north New Zealand region of Coopers Beach and surrounding areas of Mangonui and Oruiti, Priddy was inspired by the timeless nature of the land and the different light cast upon the area at different times of the day.

Depicted in numerous original canvases, Priddy works with expressive technique with oils and pastels, resulting in vibrant colours, emotive mark making and a very distinctive style.

Exhibition opening night is from 6pm to 8pm on Thursday 30 November, held at a Bespoke Gallery at 373 Parnell Rise in Parnell. The exhibition will run from Friday 1 December to Sunday 10 December.

ARTWORK: RESURGET IN AMORE – RISE AGAIN IN LOVE, SIZE – 30” X 30”, OIL ON CANVAS

M: 021 109 6713, mikepriddy@protonmail.com

The Art of Graham Young 2024 Calendar

Featuring 12 of the latest images from Graham’s popular range of paintings. Size: 240mm x 340mm From nostalgic baches on coastal beaches to quirky old buildings in forgotten rural places.

This is a slice of Kiwiana for yourself, family and friends or for sending overseas.

On sale at leading booksellers and stationers or direct from grahamyoungartist.com

What's On in November

IMAGE: BILL BAILEY

Art & About

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WORDS — BELLA SAMPSON

LIVE LIVE CINEMA 2-12 November The Hollywood Avondale

A camp twist on the 1968 cult classic horror film Night of the Living Dead.

Bringing the spirit of Rocky Horror performances (alongside the film's ghouls), the actors will perform alongside a screening of the film.

Contributing and elevating elements of hilarity, suspense, terror and delight during this energetic viewing experience.

ATOMIC! 11 November The Civic

For anyone who loves rock ’n’ roll catch some of the country's most impressive female vocalists including Boh Runga and Julia Deans as they cover a range of powerful rock hits. Hear ‘Heart of Glass’, ‘Bad Reputation’, ‘Sweet Dreams’ and more during this unique evening. ticketmaster.com

iticket.co.nz

PARAMORE 18 November Spark Arena

Nearly two decades in, Paramore is still producing chart-topping albums and successfully navigating multiple music genres in an authentic way. Their latest album, This is Why has been heralded as their most intimate and fearless release to date. Definitely worth leaving the house for.

RED BULL CLIFF DIVING WORLD SERIES 19 November Wynyard Quarter

Current and future Olympians and professional cliff divers from around the globe will be competing in the diving season Grand Finale. Divers will jump from between 21-27 metres, reaching speeds of up to 85km/h whilst masterfully contorting through the air.

Truly the peak of athleticism.

ticketmaster.co.nz

CATHERINE COHEN 19 November The Tuning Fork

CHRISTMAS HIGH TEA 26 November Jubilee Hall

The Edinburgh Fringe award-winning comedian, actress, author and singer is here fresh from her Netflix Comedy Special The Twist…? She’s Gorgeous.

Her latest show examines what it’s like entering your 30s as an actively online glamorous woman, championed to romanticise egg freezing whilst doing everything else at once. Selfdeprecating, whilst incredibly confident, Cohen has a unique and hilarious charm.

BILL BAILEY 22-23 November Aotea Centre

The legendary comedian, musician, actor, and author is back with his latest show, Thoughtifier. Bailey flaunts his talent of toeing the line between whimsy and wise, as he guides you through the error-strewn yet occasionally magnificent history of human thought.

Naturally, with some detours regarding paramount topics such as whales, biophilia and unrequited love. ticketmaster.co.nz

Enjoy seasonal music and beautiful carols in this fabulous high-tea setting.

The perfect opportunity to catch up with loved ones before the usual December rush. There are discounts available for groups larger than six, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated. events.humanitix.com

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November 2023

Box Office ABOVE: MAESTRO

HEADSPACE 9 November

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM 30 November

A freak accident causes the Space Protection Force (SPF) and their microscopic spaceship to end up inside 16-year-old Norman’s brain. They can see what he sees and hear what he hears. These crime fighting aliens must enlist Norman’s help to save Earth from Zolthard, an intergalactic villain who has managed to assume mind-control of the school principal, Ms Witherington.

Norman, his friends, and the aliens must go to great lengths to conceal the presence of alien life at their high school, while they continue the galactic struggle between good and evil. After all, Zolthard now has a school to run, and Norman still has a life to live and homework to hand in!

A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honour. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical celebration for the entire family, weaves classic Christmas melodies into new pop songs in a musicinfused retelling of the timeless story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus.

A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.

NAPOLEON 23 November

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Vanessa Kirby, Tahar Rahim, Rupert Everett, Mark Bonnar. Directed by: Ridley Scott

MAESTRO 7 December

Bradley Cooper follows up his Oscar-winning directorial debut A Star is Born with this biographical love story. Cooper stars as Leonard alongside Carey Mulligan as Felicia, with the film following the couple from the time they met in 1946 at a party and continuing through two engagements, a 25-year marriage, and three children.

Starring: Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan. Directed by: Bradley Cooper

Starring: Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim, Lecrae, Joel Smallbone and Antonio Banderas. Directed by: Adam Anders

Art & About

Napoleon is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played

by Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix.

Against a stunning backdrop of largescale filmmaking orchestrated by legendary director Ridley Scott, the film captures Bonaparte's relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.

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PRIORITY BOOKING FOR AU C K L A N D P H I LH A R M O N I A’ S 2024 SEASON IS NOW OPEN

WITH OVER 45 CONCERTS TO CHOOSE FROM.

aucklandphil.nz

On the Bookshelf Books that will refresh your mind and renew your soul.

WORDS — KAREN MCMILLAN, bestselling author karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz

ENJOY Kelly Gibney

THE GHOST SHIP Kate Mosse

The second stunning cookbook from local author Kelly Gibney celebrates the joy of coming together with loved ones to enjoy a delicious meal. Kelly’s recipes are wholefood-driven, but oh so tasty! Cooked and photographed in her home, Enjoy will inspire cooks to find new favourites the entire family will enthuse over. A musthave for your kitchen, from the beautiful blue cover to the stylish photography and easy-to-use recipes.

This thrilling saga goes from Paris to Amsterdam to the Canary Islands. The Ghost Ship is a swashbuckling, thrilling adventure on the high seas, with just the right amount of love and revenge, murder and mystery, and hidden secrets.

It’s also an inspiring feminist story of strong women in a man’s world. I can’t wait for the next instalment from this extraordinary author.

Macmillan Publishers, RRP $37.99

Beatnik Publishing, RRP $59.99

THE KAMOGAWA FOOD DETECTIVES Hisashi Kashiwai

LIGHT KEEPING Adrienne Jansen

A sensation in Japan, we can now enjoy this literary feast in English. A fatherand-daughter duo run a ‘food detective’ service in their backstreet restaurant in Kyoto. They can recreate a dish from a customer’s past that retrieves forgotten memories, providing a link to the past and a more contented future. Moving and heartfelt, this special novel celebrates delicious food and the power of memories.

Creative writing teacher, novelist and poet Adrienne Jansen releases her sixth novel.

In 1977, Robert and Jess are suddenly orphaned. Finding refuge with their lighthouse keeper grandparents, they begin to navigate their loss and rebuild their lives. But how secure is their future, with the threat of lighthouse automation?

A subtle and beautifully written tale that explores loss, the importance of family, storytelling, and the sea.

Mantle, RRP $24.99

Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37.50

Art & About

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Lucy's Corner This month Verve’s star teen reviewer LUCY KENNEDY looks at the new offering of short films from Wes Anderson.

When I was informed that four new Wes Anderson short films were out on Netflix, I just about imploded with excitement.

When I found out that they were adaptations of Roald Dahl short stories, I did implode with excitement. I am a slightly obsessive Wes Anderson fan. I love his films for their fantastically compelling and wholly distinctive style, for their hilarious and eloquent writing, and for their use of vintage design in both set and costumes.

The stories that have been transformed into short films are as follows: The Rat Man The audience looks on as a zoomorphic rat catcher endeavours to extinguish the rat population in a small town.

This was captivating, and involved a dash of stop motion, an unexpected twist and just the right amount of meticulous Andersonian goodness.

Poison A man arrives home to find his friend frozen in place, the deadly Indian Krait snake resting on his stomach. If he moves an inch, the snake will bite him and he will perish. This

IMAGE: HENRY SUGAR

short film is rife with tension, at times I realised I was actually holding my breath in suspense.

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar The longest of the four, this short film possesses ornate scenes that are a treat to look at. Set pieces are wheeled in and out of frame as if you are watching an incredibly well choreographed play. This film follows the greedy and terribly rich Henry Sugar who embarks on a spiritual journey after reading a puzzling medical account of a man who can see with his eyes shut.

The Swan A precocious young boy is relentlessly pursued by idiotic bullies resulting in the murder of a great white swan.

This is my favourite of the four films. It is dreamlike, strange and beautiful, akin to being in somebody else’s imagination.

5/5 stars Instagram: @lucykennedyreviews

Horoscopes SCORPIO 23 October – 21 November

SAGITTARIUS 22 November – 21 December

CAPRICORN 22 December – 19 January

Horoscopes

This month can stimulate a reflective, introspective mood. You could be feeling a little confused about where you’re headed in a larger sense, with your career or general life path and this can distract you from the tasks at hand. There can be a tendency to feel a little restless if you’ve been ignoring your need for more stimulation or adventure in your life.

Your sense of adventure runs high this month and you are itching for a change of pace. You are feeling good about yourself and confident about your future. Those who are in any of the creative fields will get greater benefits.

Going on holiday, having fun and going out in your spare time will create perfect conditions for a new love story or for the awakening of old passions.

AQUARIUS

This period can be the beginning of new thinking on learning pursuits and projects. There is good energy with you for drawing upon the past for ideas and recycling them in improved ways going forward. You might rediscover an old interest or come to the conclusion that something you’ve been pursuing is no longer up your alley. You will absorb things easily and your senses are in good form.

PISCES

20 January – 18 February

19 February – 20 March

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You are gathering big ideas and may feel a strong sense of building excitement for upcoming projects.

Matters revolving around learning, connecting, and communicating will stir their own excitement. This is a powerful time for redecorating, reorganising, rearranging, or even moving for some of you, as well as for spending more quality time with family and building a home base that inspires you.

You have good team spirit, and are also motivated by your peers to improve or up your game. Ideas abound now and it’s important to let the idea creation process work over the coming weeks.

This month is likely to be memorable for love and romance. Confusing financial matters or questions of ownership begin to be resolved this month. It will be very pleasing, as you will achieve victory, fame, respect, and appreciation by all.

manish@manishastrologer.com

ARIES 21 March – 19 April

TAURUS 20 April – 20 May

GEMINI 21 May – 20 June

CANCER 21 June – 22 July

WORDS— MANISH KUMAR ARORA

Financial decisions made will satisfy your head, as well as your heart. Other people's stake in your money, assets and possessions will be in the spotlight.

A friendship you will never forget, or a remarkable group of people, will help you achieve more than you expect this month. You'll take your feelings and needs seriously, you'll be very particular, and firmly state your point of view.

LEO

You will have unexpected gains and if you are adequately alert while working, then success definitely is yours. This is a time when you should focus on entertaining and having some fun for a change. Finances are ticking along nicely so there would be no harm in treating yourself to a little of what you fancy. Strong bonds will be developed with loved ones and with friends and the office staff.

VIRGO

This month you will have to run around for earning money and fulfilling needs of family. Expenses are likely to rise, and you have to become economical. Issues regarding fertility, adoption questions, step-parenting concerns, child custody problems or disagreements over parenthood may be faced. A conflict between time spent with lovers or children, and time spent with friends or group activities, is likely to capture your attention.

LIBRA

23 July – 22 August

23 August – 22 September

23 September – 22 October

Finances are particularly important this month and you will need to keep a tight rein on your spending. You'll tend to dwell on anything that's complicated and secret in your couple life. At the same time though you could have dream moments if there is somebody besides you to share the mysterious and magical side of love with.

Expansion, confidence and hopefulness are keywords for November. Both professional and personal life will be joyful. You will have a good money inflow and you will spend lavishly for your comfort. You begin to realise some of your dreams of creating an ideal home environment, as you seem to have a handle on your daily activities. You will share your dreams with your beloved and will have a great time.

It’s a fine time for thinking of ways to make small changes in your life so that you feel more engaged and connected.

There can be a nice feeling of joy and comfort in thinking about the bigger picture, long-term goals and far-off plans. You can whip through your chores, improve and enjoy yourself in the process. There can be a nice feeling of belonging or acceptance with a group or friends now.

Use your brain, and your innovative and imaginative ideas will come to the fore. By skilfully using these ideas in your work, success will be yours. You'll generally have a satisfying state of mind and you don't seem to lack energy.

Emotionally, you have a lot to reflect on as there are changes in a number of relationships which you need to understand more clearly.

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