Classic hits

Just a Mum’s Anna Cameron has been cooking up a storm for her new book, featuring an indulgent collection of family-friendly favourites. Here we serve up a few of the hits.

French Apple Cake

A timeless classic, traditionally made with very thin slices of apple in a rum or almond infused batter. My version is quick and easy, perfect for afternoon tea or as a dessert served with yoghurt.

MAKES 12 | PREP TIME 30 MINUTES + COOLING | COOKING TIME 35+ MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

4 large apples, peeled and cored

1 cup plain white flour

1 tsp baking powder

1⁄4 tsp salt

115g butter, at room temperature

2/3 cup white sugar, plus extra

to sprinkle

2 eggs

2 tbsp milk

1 tsp vanilla essence

1 tsp almond essence

Icing sugar to dust (optional)

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 175°C, positioning an oven rack in the centre. Grease the base and sides of a 22 cm-round springform or loose-bottomed cake tin and line it with baking paper.

Cut the apples into 1 cm pieces (you should have about 3 cups) and set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar for 4 minutes until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between additions, then beat in the milk, vanilla and almond essence (see notes). The mixture may look a little curdled at this stage.

Gently fold in the flour mixture until no flour is visible then fold the apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Spoon the thick batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Sprinkle an extra 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the top.

Bake for 35 minutes, or until the top springs back to the touch and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. If needed, continue to bake, checking every 3–5 minutes, until the cake is fully baked and golden. If the top of the cake is becoming too golden brown, loosely cover in foil until baked through.

Allow to cool in the tin for 20 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack.

Serve warm or cold, dusted with icing sugar if desired — it’s lovely with whipped cream or yoghurt.

This cake can be stored at room temperature, loosely covered with a cake cover or tented foil, for 1–2 days, or in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture for 3–4 days.

Chicken and Bacon Fettuccine

This oh-so indulgent pasta dish is a quick midweek meal to make when you feel like something a little bit fancy.

SERVES 4 | PREP TIME 15 MINUTES | COOKING TIME 20 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

300g fettuccine

45g butter

7 rashers streaky bacon, diced

300g skinless, boneless

chicken breast, thinly sliced

1⁄2 onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

6–8 button mushrooms,

cleaned and sliced

11⁄4 cups cream

1⁄2 cup parmesan, finely grated

1 red capsicum, finely sliced

METHOD

Bring 3 litres of salted water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the fettuccine and cook for 2 minutes less than the packet instructions. Drain, reserving 3⁄4 cup of the cooking water. Set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat 15g of the butter in a large frying pan. Fry the bacon until crispy, then drain on a paper towel.

In the same pan, sear the chicken slices in the bacon fat for a few minutes on each side until just cooked. Set aside on a plate with the bacon and cover with foil.

Wipe the frying pan with a paper towel, then melt the remaining 30g butter over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2 minutes until translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 4 minutes until softened and well browned.

Stir in the reserved pasta water and the cream, parmesan and capsicum. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 2 minutes.

Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce, using tongs to toss and coat thoroughly. Fold in the bacon and chicken and heat through for a further 2 minutes until the chicken is cooked.

Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with parmesan and parsley if desired.

Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad

This salad looks stunning on the table. I love the combination of flavours and textures — the crunch of the chickpeas works beautifully with the softly spiced cauliflower. It’s definitely one to try.

SERVES 6+ | PREP TIME 30 MINUTES | COOKING TIME 50 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

1 head cauliflower

420g can chickpeas

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp ground coriander

1⁄2 tsp paprika

1⁄2 tsp onion powder

1⁄2 tsp garlic powder

1⁄2 tsp salt

1⁄4 tsp pepper

1⁄4 cup olive oil

Dressing:

1⁄4 cup olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp lemon zest, finely grated

1⁄2 tsp ground cumin

Pinch salt and pepper

To Serve:

Handful of rocket, torn

1/3 cup dried cranberries

1⁄4 cup slivered almonds

70g feta, crumbled

10–12 fresh mint or coriander

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Lightly spray a large roasting dish with oil.

Cut the cauliflower into small florets — you should have about 5 cups. Place in a large bowl.

Rinse and drain the chickpeas, then pat them dry on a clean tea towel, then add them to the bowl.

Sprinkle in the turmeric, coriander, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper and stir through. Drizzle with the oil and toss to coat evenly.

Spread out on the prepared tray and roast for 20 minutes. Stir, then continue roasting, gently stirring every 10 minutes, for a further 30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are crisp and the cauliflower is tender and golden but holding its shape. Set aside to cool slightly.

To make the dressing, whisk together all the ingredients in a small bowl.

To serve, transfer the cooled cauliflower and chickpeas to a large bowl or serving platter. Add the rocket and dressing and toss gently. Fold in the cranberries, almonds, feta and torn mint or coriander leaves.

Enjoy warm or cold. Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Crisp on the outside, soft and chewy in the centre, these cookies are easy to make, and you can freeze the dough for fresh cookies any time you desire. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly made cookies.

MAKES 26 | PREP TIME 30 MINUTES + CHILLING

+ COOLING | COOK TIME 15–18 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

170g butter

2 cups plain white flour

3⁄4 tsp baking soda

1⁄2 tsp salt

1 packed cup brown sugar

1⁄2 cup white sugar

1 egg

1 egg yolk

1 tbsp vanilla essence

11⁄2 cups milk or dark chocolate

drops, chips or chunks

METHOD

Place the butter in a small bowl, cover and microwave in 30-second bursts until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the melted butter with the brown sugar and white sugar on a medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined. Add the egg, egg yolk and vanilla and beat for 3 minutes until light and creamy.

Add the flour mixture and mix lightly until just combined. Then use a wooden spatula to gently fold in the chocolate.

Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.

When ready to bake, let the dough stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 165°C fan-forced, positioning one rack in the upper third of the oven and another in the lower third. Line two large baking trays with baking paper.

Roll 2 tbsp-sized scoops of dough into balls and arrange 5cm apart on the prepared trays. You may need to cook 3–4 batches.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are turning golden brown and the tops are mostly set (the larger the cookies, the longer they will take to cook).

Allow to cool completely on the trays — they will firm up as they cool.

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Images and text from Just a Mum’s Kitchen by Anna Cameron, photography by Melanie Jenkins (Flash Studios), published by Allen & Unwin Aotearoa New Zealand. RRP$45.

To botox or not to botox?

Hayley Bath takes a wrinkle-filled stand against the pressure to freeze by embracing her unapologetic laugh lines.

If Hamlet were written in 2025 instead of 1599, the iconic line wouldn’t be “To be or not to be?” It’d be “To Botox or not to Botox?”.

Last month, I found myself at an event surrounded by a sea of unwrinkled, unmoving brows. Scanning the room, I realised only myself and one other woman were left in the natural-forehead resistance. Even some of the guys had it. I felt like the last raisin in a bunch of juicy grapes.

Now I’m a fairly expressive person. My forehead alone could star in its own play, and these wrinkles are starting to take center stage. Even in my 30s, I see them while doing my makeup, in videos, and sometimes I catch myself smoothing my forehead mid-mascara, just to sneak a peek at the alternate Botox universe me. She looks oddly surprised.

As a voice and face on radio and in the media, I’ve been offered free injectables. Twice actually. From real, professional places promising no wax-figure vibes. Yet, I haven’t done it. Can’t do it. Every time I think, “Maybe it’s time,” but some inner part of me screams, “Over my wrinkled forehead!” Blame personal hang ups, a weird sense of loyalty to my wrinkles or just stubbornness.

So why haven’t I joined the Botox parade? Especially when many people look great with it.

First, the niggle at the back of my head whispers ‘what about my daughter?’. She’s a quiet observer, learning from my life. I don’t want her to feel like she’s got to change or alter herself, because she’ll already be swimming in a sea of filtered, curated and perfectly polished faces online.

Secondly, people die young. Yikes. Apologies, that got heavy fast. My late-cousin sadly never got to have wrinkles. These lines are proof I’m still here. Laughing and squinting at emails I don’t fully read. Wrinkles are my life’s receipts. I’m trying to see them that way.

And, of course, there’s always a little fear stopping me. What if the results aren’t great? I don’t want to end up looking like you could crack a walnut on my forehead for six months. Or what if I get the dreaded eyebrow droop? And we’ve all met someone who looks like their upper face missed the memo that their lower face is trying to have a conversation. I like having full facial expressions.

To be clear, this isn’t Botox-bashing. Botox can boost self-confidence, make people feel good about their appearance and even be used for relief from migraines. But for me? This might be the hill I grow old, and wrinkly, on.

I haven’t shouted, “This is my wrinkle revolution!” I want to. But what if, in years from now, I wake up feeling worse for wear and the voice whispers, “Just one little jab...?”. Easy to be bold in your 30s, harder later. Do I have the guts to do nothing? I think so. I hope so.

In a perfect world, everyone would stop cosmetic injectables. Then we’d all be back on an even-aging playing field. But what if we revolted? What if laughter lines became badges of honour and we felt the freedom of not giving a toss? What if looking ‘old’ wasn’t something we avoided?

Until then, I’ll keep stretching my forehead in the mirror, wondering what could be, but probably sticking with what is. Because just like Hamlet, the internal conflict is the biggest battle. Having the courage to leave the sword (or in this case, the needle) could mean surviving all five acts with a face that tells the whole story.

There’s also something bad-ass about letting gravity have a go.

Catch Hayley on The Hits 95FM weekdays 9am to 3pm.

As nature intended

Escape the city buzz and immerse yourself in wild beauty at Wellington’s lush, predator-free haven.

WORDS LIZ FRENCH | PHOTOS LUCY BROAD, SCOTT LANGDALE + SUPPLIED

Wellington is a thriving metropolis, seat of government and a vibrant capital of corporations, culture and coffee. In complete contrast it also boasts the world’s first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary.

You would not expect to find 225 hectares (more than 500 acres) of regenerating forest and rare birdlife within a few minutes’ drive of Wellington’s CBD. This is Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (The Garden of Tāne Māhuta, the Māori god of the forest).

The idea of protecting Wellington’s biodiversity began in the 1990s with a plan to manage the preservation of the national assets of the city. Its theme, “Bring the Birds Back to Wellington”, was the inspiration for Zealandia, a sanctuary that is doing exactly that.

The decommissioning of the Karori reservoir allowed this ambitious project to begin in the valley it occupied. The reservoir, with its historic dam crossing, is now an attractive feature of Zealandia. Bringing back the birds and other New Zealand native and endemic species required eradicating and preventing entry by the human introduced mammalian predators that have decimated our native flora and fauna over hundreds of years. To restore a valley to its pre-human state does not happen overnight, hence Zealandia’s far sighted vision. The defining feature was the construction, in 1999, of an 8.6 kilometre-long predator exclusion fence completely surrounding the sanctuary.

Thanks to the fence, and to community conservation efforts like Predator Free Wellington, the 500-year project has progressed dramatically in just 25 years.

Wellington is one of the only cities in the world where bird biodiversity is increasing. Tūī and kererū, once rare, are now an everyday sight around the region. Kākā and kārearea (NZ falcon) are now commonly seen in the city and nearby suburbs.

Zealandia’s vision would not be possible without support, funding and sponsorship. Visiting also contributes to the ongoing conservation work.

So, if you are in Wellington, take a break for a walk in the bush where you will hear only birdsong and where you can witness rare native birds like the hihi (stitchbird), tīeke (saddleback), kākāriki (NZ parakeet) and takahē and see prehistoric tuatara sunbathing. If you take a guided night tour, you may spot the kiwi pukupuku (little spotted kiwi), some 200 of which now call Zealandia home.

Free shuttles to Zealandia leave from Wellington’s isite and the top of the cable car.

VISITZEALANDIA.COM

Fire and earth

He’s been a Fett, a Mus and a Ropata, but now Temuera Morrison is stepping out from behind the characters to play his most honest role yet: himself. Earth Oven is a world journey steeped in culture and kai. The Bay’s most globally famous resident explains all to Karl Puschmann. 

Photos Julie Zhu + supplied

The origins of Temuera Morrison’s new TV series sound like a shaggy dog story. To hear him tell it, Earth Oven is the result of an unlikely chain of events that begins on an ordinary morning and then twists and turns to end with an impromptu hāngī at his house with an A-List Hollywood star and a cadre of bikers.

As you might expect from a globally famous actor, Tem’s a terrific storyteller. We’re enjoying the sun in the garden bar of a gastropub in Pāpāmoa, and he’s acting out all of the various roles within his story with the same dedication to his craft that has seen him land lead roles in everything from the Star Wars franchise to Shortland Street over his storied career. However, the real Oscar-worthy moments in this morning’s performance are when he shakes his head in disbelief at the cascading chain of events.

Earth Oven is a hybrid travel/cooking show that sees Tem travelling the globe to learn and experience how other indigenous cultures cook food underground, in the same manner as our hāngī. In the show, he travels from the deserts of Jordan to the oceans of Chiloé and even across the ditch to Australia, amongst many other countries that, surprisingly, utilise this traditional cooking method.

With the show’s focus on food, it’s only fitting that Tem’s story begins after breakfast. He’d finished eating and had gone for a walk along Maketū Beach, where he resides, on a rare day off when he ran into a friend. His mate was about to head off to Newdicks Beach to cater for a Whakaata Māori [Māori Television] film crew who were shooting the documentary series Kairākau there. With nothing on his schedule for the day, Tem offered to give his buddy a hand. 

“So we get there. I’m carrying in all the food, and people are turning around going, “Hey! Who’s that fella?”. I say, “Got a bit of a hāngī for your lunch today, boys, all right?’. Then I start ordering everybody around. ‘Hey, hey, hey! I need some more tables here. Where’s the rubbish bins? Get all those bloody extras out of here!’.”

Temuera in Maketu

He grins and says, “I’m placing everything down the way I see it on the movie sets I’ve been on. My mate’s quite impressed. He goes, ‘This fella knows what he’s doing’. So I’m there, doing the catering and then I find out Jason’s coming down to Rotorua and going to see Cliff.”

From anyone else, this would sound like an epic namedrop moment. But for Tem, Hollywood star Jason Momoa and Rotorua actor Cliff Curtis are pals. The trio have recently worked together on Apple TV’s big-budget Hawaiian historical drama, Chief of War. 

“‘Going to see Cliff?’” he repeats, shaking his head in mock indignation. “‘What the hell? How come I don’t know about this?’. I’m straight on the phone to Jason; ‘Where’s my invite? You better come and see the Chief before you go and see the other fella, okay?’”

He laughs at the memory. “I said to him, ‘Stop in Maketū, and then you can carry on to Rotorua. I’ll put lunch on for you fellas.”

For Tem, eating together is about more than just the meal. It’s about connection and respect, linking his Māori traditions and showing hospitality as a universal value. Indeed, after I arrived for UNO’s interview, the first thing he did was offer to get us whitebait fritters for lunch. So, inviting Jason for lunch was almost an instant reaction. What he didn’t realise, however, was that Jason wasn’t travelling alone.

“I said to him, ‘How many for lunch?’” He pauses a beat before delivering the punchline.

“Twenty-two.”

It turns out Jason was leading a convoy of his motorcycle club, Redrum MC, an indigenous biker group from Los Angeles.

“I turned to the same mate I’m doing the catering with and said, ‘Bro, Jason’s coming to town. We’ve got to do a hāngī. We can’t just put on a barbecue. We got to give him the real deal.’.”

They finished up on the set and rushed over to Tem’s. It was while the pair were putting their day’s second hāngī down that Tem had a flash of inspiration. He and a director friend had been talking about doing a show together based on the ideas of food and cultural connection. This spontaneous lunch turned out to be the perfect chance to not only capture proof-of-concept footage that the idea could work and be entertaining, but also to give the footage some Hollywood star power to help attract funding.

“We filmed the whole day. Jason and all his bikies turned up, we fed them all and we filmed it. It was beautiful.

Then, with satisfaction at a job well done, he beams, “The hāngī came out great, too.”

While Temuera Morrison has played many iconic characters over the years, like Doctor Hone Ropata in Shortland Street, bounty hunters Jango Fett and Boba Fett in the Star Wars franchise, and the terrifying Jake the Muss in Once Were Warriors, he says his role as the host of Earth Oven has been his biggest, scariest challenge. This is because, as the show’s host, he’s playing himself.

Dr Ropata on Shortland Street.

Jake Heke on Once Were Warriors

Jango Fett in the Star Wars film Attack of the Clones.

“There’s no hiding behind a character. It’s my own character, which I normally keep hidden,” he admits. “I’m still coming to terms with it. I’ve had a look at a couple of episodes, but I didn’t know what to think by the end. I’m baring my own personality. It’s a feeling of vulnerability.”

This feeling was fed by his lack of expertise or knowledge when it comes to food and food prep. 

“I’m no cook, I’m no chef,” he says. “I didn’t even know what I was doing. I was a bit naive.”

What troubled him most was his inexperience in discussing food. 

“When you’re doing a cooking show, you need adjectives. You need descriptive words. You need to be able to discuss flavours and textures. I had none of that,” he sighs. “I didn’t have that vocabulary.”

The funny thing is, as a viewer, it’s precisely his lack of expertise that turns out to be the show’s special sauce. You know his reactions are genuine and his comments on the various cooking techniques and new tastes are sincere. It also allows him to act as a stand-in for the audience watching at home. 

“I was outside my comfort zone, so I just played on it a bit. That’s just the clown in all of us. I’ve got a bit of the clown in me, too,” he grins. “It’s in my family. On our Morrison side, we’ve got a few clowns. We’re performers. We’d be on the stage with Uncle Howard. We’d set up the microphones and sing the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ on some of his big numbers. Then we’d come out and do the haka, and he’d bring us on to do bits and pieces.”

Uncle Howard, of course, being the renowned Kiwi entertainer, Sir Howard Morrison. 

“I saw Uncle Howard work a lot. We were brought up singing. So on the show I was opening myself up a little bit,” he says, before, perhaps, realising he’s opening himself up a little bit again. Instead of continuing along that train of thought, he smiles warmly at his memories and shifts gears, saying, “But it was a warm, warm experience, and very cultural.” 

Yaldad, Chile.

He starts talking about his travels on the show. He speaks of gathering shellfish with an old lady in Chile, South America, who reminded him of gathering mussels with his auntie along the beach, of horse riding with the Mapuche Indian, which saw him, “reliving my childhood on the horse. Trying to stay up and hold on tight,” and of cooking a whole pig in an imu, Hawai’i’s version of a hāngī. 

“The whole pig went in! We put it in at 6pm and cooked it overnight,” then, chuckling, he says, “We couldn’t be bothered having it for breakfast, so we left it in all day.” 

In Jordan, Tem lends a hand preparing the zarb - the Bedouin hāngī equivalent.

He shows me photos on his phone of his time with the Bedouin in Jordan, travelling on a camel into the desert, whose offer of a simple cup of coffee instigated a ritual with strict protocols that are laden with meaning.  “We’re out in the middle of nowhere. It was beautiful. We got there by camel. And then we’re about to have coffee with the Bedouin warrior who’s roasting the beans and everything. There’s quite a cultural significance when you have coffee. It’s a man-on-man business.”

Partaking in and respecting the foreign cultural traditions was something he took extremely seriously. During the coffee ritual, you can see his concentration, to ensure he’s using the correct hand to do things that we don’t give a second thought to, like, for example, holding his cup or how it’s placed when it’s empty. “It’s quite sacred and respected. They only share certain moments with their close ones,” he explains. “Opening your mind to that cultural depth is something I really enjoy.”

It was also something made more challenging by the fact that throughout the series, most of his verbal communication was through an interpreter. However, he quickly found that no matter where in the world he was, words became increasingly less important in communicating. As he was so hands-on in the preparations and because it’s such physical work, he quickly forged bonds with his hosts. “I read once that the ocular dialect needs no translation. So for me, working all day with a guy who doesn’t speak my language, you just know what he wants. You know what he’s talking about. Even though they’re speaking Spanish, Indian or Hawaiian, you don’t actually have to ask what they’re saying. You just have to be present. There’s a natural camaraderie that you build up.

Food prepped for the zarb - the Bedouin earth oven.

“I respected them, and we became very good friends. Because we’re going, our mission is to cook this. You’re going to teach me, and I’ve got to do as much as I can. I’d get stuck in. By the end of the day, I’d be covered in dirt. By the time we’d put it all down, I’d be ready for a beer.”

“After being around food all day long, you’re very thirsty. But, you’re not that hungry,” then he laughs and says, “Sometimes you don’t even worry about the food. The drinking gets in the way. It’s thirsty work!”

While we’re all familiar with hāngī, it’s fascinating to learn how other cultures, separated by vast oceans, developed similar cooking methods with their own unique spin due to their environments. And while he says he “picked up a few tricks” when it comes to putting on his own hāngīs going forward, for him, Earth Oven is more about that human connection
that sharing a meal with someone creates.

“I think we’ve really got some magical moments. When I’m being hosted, I always feel humble and always get emotional when people take time out of their day to host me and my crew,” he says. “That’s where I’d always get emotional, at those moments when we’ve actually sat down, and finished the food. I always felt a bond and wanted to thank them.”

“There’s a saying, ‘What is the most important thing?
It is people.’ I love that saying. And that’s what I learned on my travels. Travel opens your mind up. I’m getting over to these places, sharing food with these families, right across the world. And yet, there are all these common things: sitting down, conversing. It reminded me of what we used to do growing up, when we all got together in summertime as a family in Hangatiki for Christmas to share in the haymaking.”

Then he smiles warmly and says, “So, it was quite a spiritual journey for me,” before tucking into the whitebait fritters that have just arrived for lunch. 

Earth Oven screens on Sky Open, Neon and Sky Go from November 5, 2025

Keeping Christmas alive

More than a Christmas shop, Angela Thomson’s magical Te Puke store

reflects her lifelong mission to create lasting joy for others.

WORDS Hayley Barnett | PHOTOS Alan Gibson

In the heart of Te Puke sits a little pocket of wonder, a tiny store in which every corner whispers nostalgia. Christmas Magic Makers is one woman’s mission to bring joy and magic back into people’s lives. Angela Thomson, a mother of nine, a grandmother and a woman who has poured every inch of her spirit (and savings) into keeping the magic alive, admits her love affair with Christmas is ingrained.

“My parents split when we were young,” she says. “But Mum always made sure Christmas was magical. We’d wake up to presents and stockings, and then go to be with my grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. Everyone was there. We’d pick peas and corn from the garden for Christmas lunch. It was that perfect kind of chaos.”

That sense of magic became something Angela couldn’t let go of, and nor did she want to. With nine children and now five grandchildren of her own, she’s been recreating that spirit every year, passing it on through Christmas rituals.

“Most of the kids say, ‘That’s just Mum’s thing,’” she laughs. “Though one of my daughters has started doing her own version. It’s toned down now, but I can see her growing into it.”

But what many don’t see behind the tinsel is the personal cost. After a failed marriage, and dealing with the challenges of raising a son with severe cerebral palsy, Angela faced depression and health complications. Her rare blood vessel disease, coeliac disease and iron intolerance mean regular infusions that leave her depleted for days.

“Some infusions wipe me out for up to six days,” she says. “I’ll be stuck in bed, aching, puffy-eyed, unable to think straight.”

She opened the shop in 2017 and still runs it alone. “There’s no staff. Just me.”

Despite the physical toll, she presses on. Her second husband, Phil, and one of her older sons, Matthew, who lives on their property in a tiny home, step in to help care for Sam, her son with cerebral palsy.

“Sam can’t walk, talk or eat on his own,” she explains. “Matthew is amazing. He’s said he’ll care for Sam for life. When he walks into the room, Sam just lights up. Their bond is beautiful.”

In many ways, Christmas Magic Makers is Angela’s 10th child, something she nurtures. But times are hard. Last Christmas was her worst sales season yet, and this year she’s using her own retirement savings to keep the lights on. “It panicked me,” she admits. “I’ve got zero in the business account, but I love what I do. If I stopped, what would I be doing?”

She’s not interested in turning the store into a moneymaker. “It was never about money. It’s about making memories.” And she does that, not just through décor and retail, but through unexpected acts of kindness. Like the little boy who walked in last year and fell in love with a toy train. Angela gave it to him. “He was just so happy. It was sitting unused in the back anyway.”

Still, she’s trying to evolve the business to survive. She’s begun stocking general giftware, especially for kids, that can be bought for birthdays, not just Christmas. “I’m making Lucky Dip boxes now,” she says, referring to surprise boxes filled with small treasures. “Kids love them, and it doesn’t take much.”

But the reality of running a seasonal shop in a small town is tough. “Te Puke’s rent is high, and I can’t just move somewhere else. The whole shop is built into this space. If I had to pull it apart, I wouldn’t do it again.

“I know they say not to tell people you’re struggling, but I think people need to know. Once this place is gone, it’s gone. There’s nothing else like it.”

Her store might be filled with toys, but its foundation is built on grit. Angela started her working life in the Air Force, and later found herself raising children with special needs and battling serious health issues. It seems Angela has never chosen the easy path. During this time she even earned a PhD in law, a move she now admits was about trying to please her mother. “But that wasn’t me. I never even practised. I just wanted to make her proud.”

Now, finally, Angela is doing something just for herself. Christmas Magic Makers is her passion project and her gift to the community. Whether it survives past the next lease renewal (in August next year) depends largely on whether the community embraces it.

“People think, ‘Oh, it’s just a Christmas shop,’” she says. “But it’s more than that. It’s a place where kids make memories and where families can come together.”

As we wrap up, Angela’s eyes water. “I’ve spent my life doing what others expected. This shop is for me. I’m not ready to give it up.”

If you’re ever near Te Puke, step inside Christmas Magic Makers. You might walk out with a stocking filler, but more than that, you’ll carry a little piece of the magic Angela’s been creating her whole life.

CHRISTMASMAGICMAKERS.CO.NZ

Rewriting the rules

The region’s first ADHD clinic brings together leading minds and lived experience, in a place where families feel seen.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS JAHL MARSHALL

Dr Sarah Moll and Freddie Bennett

It’s hard to pinpoint the most frustrating aspect of believing you have a neurodiverse child with ADHD or autism. It could be the helplessness you experience as a parent as you try to justify behaviour that to others appears anti-social, or the despair of feeling like a failure as the protector of your young one from their overwhelming emotions. Likely it’s the acute anxiety of knowing that you need help to navigate this.

Bay Paediatrics is a private clinic recently set up by leading specialists in the field of neurodiversity, that has been established here in Tauranga. A multi-disciplinary team of paediatricians, psychologists and behavioural change experts (among them co-founder Dr Sarah Moll, herself a paediatric consultant at Tauranga Hospital) will be working together to provide an all-encompassing, world-class service for ADHD, autism, cognitive and learning challenges, and across the neurodiverse spectrum.

Light, bright and spacious, the practice is welcoming - the waiting room is relaxed and comfortable, and there is a separate play area set up for neuro-sensitive children. Freddie Bennett, co-owner and husband of Sarah, shows me around, explaining the reasons behind the decision to set up the practice.

Dr Sarah Moll.

Working as a developmental paediatrician at Tauranga Hospital, Sarah has always wanted to create the best outcome for families, to give them the treatment and guidance they need. However, she was increasingly wishing more could be done. In addition, as parents, Sarah and Freddie have lived experience of the challenges ADHD can present.

As Freddie explains: “We went through a journey with our children, looking at an ADHD diagnosis. At the same time, I’ve come to recognise my own ADHD. Like many parents I looked down the list of symptoms and thought it started to sound familiar. When ADHD came on my radar all the pieces came together. As parents we know what it’s like to navigate ADHD with your children, to feel overwhelmed, confused, to feel like you’re stuck in this holding pattern, waiting and wondering. And there’s a lot of guilt, because you feel like you’re failing as a parent and you should be doing more, but you don’t know what to do.”

Sarah’s role at the hospital made her more than aware of the challenges parents face while trying to get a diagnosis, and as soon as she actively expressed a desire to do more, Freddie was on board. “We thought, what if we tried to create this centre of excellence. We asked, ‘What would I have needed two years ago when we were going on this diagnosis journey? What would I have needed five years ago when I was struggling with my son’s behaviour and I didn’t know what the hell to do? What if we can create the tools, the support, the diagnosis - everything - so other parents don’t have to go through it?’ With Sarah’s skills and talent, we had the platform to help as many children as possible. Now, with the New Zealand Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence - officially opened by New Zealand Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey in August - Bay Paediatrics is going from strength to strength.

Freddie Bennett.

The combination of skillsets of Freddie and Sarah are perfect for a venture such as this. Sarah brings the neurodiversity specialism, while Freddie takes care of business management. As Freddie explains, the beauty of the centre is the idea of it being a one-stop-shop. “We can assess, diagnose and prescribe ADHD medication. But we also thought, ‘For kids with ADHD and autism, let’s give parents some strategies designed for each family that will make a difference at home and school’. ADHD is often not a standalone condition. We have a multi-disciplinary team to provide gold-standard autism assessments, and with cognitive and learning assessments we can also test for and diagnose dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and beyond. So, while we areBay Paediatrics, we call this building the New Zealand Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence. This is about giving every neurodiverse family the freedom to thrive.”

There are multiple points of difference offered by Bay Paediatrics, one being that while they are a private practice, they're extending their service to offer help to those that may just need clarification. Freddie confirms: “We will review a substantial amount of information for every family that comes to our door. Our medical team will review, and we will recommend the best next steps and assessment pathway for every family. We offer that service for free. Only if we see enough traits of ADHD do we then go on to offer them an assessment. We'll gather the information, analyse it and recommend a next step which may include ADHD, autism, cognitive and learning assessment or just consultation with our psychologist.

Freddie and Sarah have personally invested heavily into this venture, excited to be instigating what they consider a gamechanger. Sarah’s credentials are enough to get people to take notice of what they're doing. She was recently the only paediatrician in New Zealand to present at the 2025 ADHD World Congress in Prague. With her expertise comes knowledge on the most up-to-date diagnostic tools and resources available. Indeed, they are the only paediatric clinic in New Zealand to develop the unique 'ADHD Illuminate' assessment. This groundbreaking ADHD assessment utilises digital assessment techniques to provide a truly objective and science-backed diagnosis. Freddie says, "This is a gamechanger for families. No more guessing. No more worrying about teachers not picking up the signs of ADHD. This allows us to move faster, look deeper and go further for every child".

Very much the cherry on the cake with it comes to ADHD assessment, this computer-based diagnostic tool is designed to help evaluate ADHD by objectively measuring core ADHD symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity through motion tracking, eye-movements, computer tasks and scientific analysis. It supports a comprehensive diagnosis by helping to more accurately rule in or rule out ADHD, inform treatment decisions and enables the creation of personalised treatment plans.

“Another aspect of the Illuminate ADHD assessment is that you can come in at 9am and by 4pm you’ve got your diagnosis and potentially a prescription. We can give families the three C’s - certainty, clarity and confidence in one day. What we won’t do is tie you into follow-up appointments - there’s no hidden costs.”

Freddie emphasises that the clinic will stop at nothing to give families the support they need. His mission is to establish the Bay of Plenty as the 'Silicon Valley of child neurodiversity' for New Zealand... and eventually the world. He says, "A neurodiversity diagnosis stays with a child for the rest of their life, so nothing is more important than getting it right first time, every time."

Another aspect of the vision for Bay Paediatrics is the commitment to offer families the tools they need to develop confidence in neurodiversity. Freddie is excited about providing help, regardless of whether a parent chooses to come here for an assessment. “We have free resources, and we run the EPIC programme — Extraordinary Parents and Incredible Children. We have free podcasts and workshops; we have free books on our website. We run the EPIC Families events... giving parents the very best guidance. I believe this because as a parent with ADHD who has a child with ADHD, I know what it's like to feel that the world is against me. That's why we're starting what we call the 'neurodiversity revolution'. As a parent, I say revolution happens when a bunch of people turn around and say, ‘We’re not going to be overlooked anymore, we’re not going to be kept quiet and hidden away’.”

The passion from Freddie is palpable, and it’s clear the emotion that drives this clinic is genuine. There’s a deep understanding of what tip-toeing along the path of neurodiversity means for families. As Freddie points out, “Everything we create is for the real world, for real parents who have real struggles. We can give them tools to help them through. Most of all we want to help parents feel seen and understood. We want to be world-class. And we want Bay Paediatrics to lead the charge.”

BAYPAEDIATRICS.COM

Centre stage

Tauranga Arts Festival will come to life with a dazzling circus, bold beats, sharp wit and homegrown brilliance.

WORDS Monique Balvert-O’Connor

Hayley Sproull is The Baroness.

Internationally acclaimed circus performers, musicians, authors, actors and comedians will be amongst those set to thrill at the 2025 Tauranga Arts Festival. Taking to our stages will be the likes of Cirque Bon Bon, Tami Neilson, Hayley Sproull, Rhys Mathewson, Te Radar, Chelsea Winter and Catherine Chidgey to name but some. It’s an impressive line-up that also includes plenty of local talent keen to delight the crowds at their city’s flagship art festival event, kicking off over Labour Weekend.

Tauranga DJ queen Ayesha Kee.

Ayesha Kee doesn’t plan on raising the roof of the Carrus Crystal Palace, but she’s sure hoping she’ll have that glorious tent rocking.

The Tauranga DJ queen can’t wait to “slay the disco way” during the Tauranga Arts Festival where she’ll help fulfil many a dazzling disco dream. Ayesha will team up with powerhouse vocalist Lisa Tomlins to deliver a Queens of Disco event. Expect the most iconic disco anthems ever to hit the dancefloor. Think Diana Ross, some Pointer Sisters, Bee Gees… feel good music, Ayesha says, that’s likely to seduce many, of varying age groups, onto the dancefloor.

By day Ayesha is a community development manager at Kaiwhakahaere Whakawhanake Hapori. By night, well, that’s alter ego time.

“I have always loved music but never learnt an instrument, so I got into deejaying about 20 years ago. I love it so much as there’s the opportunity
to take people on a musical journey, and you just make people happy,” she beams.

Tauranga’s proud to claim her. While Ayesha’s only been Tauranga based for 10 years, Ngāti Ranginui is her iwi and Ngāi Tamarāwaho her hapu.

She will be one of an array of local talent in the spotlight over festival week. 

UNO is proud to be sponsoring what’s expected to be a hugely popular festival event: comedian Hayley Sproull’s show The Baroness. It’s so named as Hayley is The Baroness sky-rocketing towards 40, with a “happily untenanted” womb and a life of love, leisure and lingus. Hayley feels less barren and more Baroness.

As a Baroness, her focus is on making “martinis, not milk. She changes her mind, not nappies. She wants durries, not diapers.” Tauranga Arts Festival attendees can rest assured she’ll be delivering not a child, but copious amounts of chuckle-worthy moments.

Tauranga Arts Festival general manager Sarah Cotter says this year’s event will be full of fun, magic and vibrancy, with world-class performances, thought-provoking conversations and experiences to stir the senses and soul.

Ozi Ozaa.

Local creatives playing a part in delivering all that wonder include the festival team’s very own content creator Fabio Camera, who, like Aeysha, cannot resist the call of music when his day job is over. Aptly, he’s a musician in a band carrying a name meaning work and happiness - Ozi Ozaa. This Afrofunk band will perform on the Tauranga Waterfront in the Carrus Crystal Palace Spiegeltent.

Still on the music front, local talent will also be showcased during two of the festival’s free events - Opus Pocket Orchestra Concert and Undergrand.
The former is focused on little listeners and will feature 30-minute concerts offering young ones a joyful, interactive introduction to orchestral music. Undergrand, meanwhile, has been dubbed “a piano
in the wild”. Imagine stumbling upon a baby grand piano in the most unexpected places, like Mount Main Beach at Sunrise, Tauranga’s waterfront after dusk, and in a city park by day. This roaming, open-air musical experience will include a line-up of up-and-coming Tauranga students and seasoned pianists playing everything from classical to jazz
to improvised soundscapes.

Battle Chorus.

Playing a key, guiding role in two events is award-winning Tauranga born and raised Jason Te Mete (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngai Te Rangi), a freelance actor, singer, dancer, director, pianist, and playwright/writer. His festival babies are Battle Chorus – where two choirs go to war — and also Waiata Mai, a free-to-all sing-along (watch out for some local legends, like a free-to-all sing-along that closes the festival on Sunday November 2. 

The final days of the festival, in early November, involve Escape, with its focus on the literary. In amongst the major New Zealand fiction writers is Tauranga’s own Anne Tiernan, author of bestselling novel The Last Days of Joy (partially set in Tauranga), and (recently released) The Good Mistress. 

Less joyful, but inarguably good, is the demise of the New Zealand media, and Tauranga’s investigative journalist Jared Savage will speak to this in Media Madness. Jared will join a line-up of journalists in unpacking and debating the media landscape of 2025.

Sarah Ell will also offer learning opportunities. Sarah’s recently published book The Spirit of a Place, is a new history of The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga, recognised as one of New Zealand’s most significant heritage sites. Sarah’s talk promises a rare glimpse into Tauranga’s layered past.

This part of the festival will honour the late, great Tauranga writer Sherryl Jordan who wrote beloved novels for children and young adults, including:
Rocco, The Wednesday Wizard, The Juniper Game, and Winter of Fire.

Escape invites people to “sit back, relax and immerse in a suite of scintillating conversations”, says former Tauranga resident Claire Mabey. She would know - she devised the programme. Claire, who is of strong literary pedigree, has strong ties to the festival, having been part of the organising team on previous occasions. Amongst her accomplishments,
Claire is The Spinoff’s book editor, the founder of Wellington’s Verb Festival, and author of The Raven’s Eye Runaways (and its just-completed sequel).

To end with a Z… back by popular demand is Tauranga Zinefest. This popular independent publishing event that celebrates creativity on
the fringe returns.

Undergrand's piano in the wild.

FREE EVENTS

The festival excitement includes a diverse range of family-friendly and free events offering the chance to be wowed, to sing your heart out, get creative and to have a giggle or two, says its proud and excited general manager. 

“This is Tauranga’s festival, and we want to make it as accessible as possible to as many Tauranga people as we can,” Sarah says.

Some of the free events (Undergrand, Zinefest, Opus Pocket Orchestra Concert) are mentioned above. Add to that Waiata  Mai, Obelisk Natura and CAR-A-OKE! 

For show times and tickets, visit taurangafestival.co.nz

Clubbing with the girls

A girls’ golf getaway to Ōhope and Whakatāne serves up the ultimate weekend escape.

Planning a girls' weekend that mixes great golf with good food and a bit of beachside downtime?

Ōhope and Whakatāne deliver the goods, whether you're a near-pro or just tagging along for the eats and views.

Tee off and chill out

This trip starts on the green. You’ve got two standout courses close together, each with its own vibe.

Ōhope Beach Golf Links is the kind of course where your phone camera might get more action than your driver. With views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and Ōhiwa Harbour on the other, it’s a classic links course with a relaxed pace, plenty of fresh air and a few playful challenges to keep things lively.

Over and around the hill, Whakatāne Golf Club offers something different. It’s lush, tree-lined and loved for its pristine greens. Ideal if you want a slightly more structured round, or to show off your short game.

Where to stay and slay

Ōhope offers beachside motels, modern apartments and the well-loved Ōhope Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, complete with spas and saunas that are perfect after a day of golf or shopping.

In Whakatāne, stay central with chic motels and easy-access apartments, or find a tucked-away spot if you're craving a quiet wine-and-face-mask night.

A little shopping, a little adventure

Got some downtime between tee times? You’ll find it easy to fill. Boutique stores in Ōhope Village and along The Strand in Whakatāne are great for a slow wander, especially if your crew loves homewares, beachwear and little local gems.

For something more active, explore the trails around Ōhiwa Harbour by bike, take a scenic bush walk on the Nga Tapuwae o Toi trail, or soak up some sun along Ōhope Beach. Feeling adventurous? Book a fishing charter or a kayak trip and make some salty memories together.

Bites and bonding

After your round, the real fun begins. Start at Fisherman’s Wharf in Ōhope for cocktails and seafood with a view, or head to Moxi for great coffee and brunch bites. The Ōhope Beach Tavern brings the post-golf pub vibes, with a side of ocean breeze. Whakatāne steps it up after dark. Grab fusion dishes and fizz at Cigol, hearty burgers and beers at The Comm, or something more refined (and wine list–friendly) at Roquette. Craft lovers, don’t miss Mata Brewery for a tasting flight and Smokin’ Goose for next-level BBQ.

The best kind of girls’ trip

A golf getaway with the girls doesn’t have to be all about the game. Whakatāne and Ōhope serve up the perfect blend of swing, sip, shop and soak, all in one sunny, easy-to-reach package. Whether you're lining up birdies or just enjoying the weekend vibes, it’s a trip worth planning.

WHAKATANE.COM

More than skin deep

Katrina Ross teaches us how to glow inside and out.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS KATIE COX

Without a doubt, non-invasive skincare treatments are giving surgical cosmetic procedures a gentle nudge to move aside and share the limelight. As owner/operator of About You Medi Spa, Katrina Ross is a certified aesthetician practitioner with 25 years’ experience. Katrina embodies her work — she is glowing, articulate and clearly knows her stuff.

When Kat began her career in beauty therapy she was always focused on results driven, medically based appearance medicine. After finishing her initial training, she worked alongside renowned doctors both in New Zealand and Australia, ultimately opening About You Medi Spa 10 years ago. Here she offers multiple bespoke treatments, all carefully chosen to complement each other; from laser rejuvenation for sunspots and collagen production, to microneedling and make-up artistry.

We quickly move onto discussing the Cavi Lipo cellulite and fat reduction treatment. This technology has been around for 14 years and was designed in America as an alternative to liposuction, without the risk. Non-invasive, targeted fat reduction for stubborn areas of fat such as abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms can even help define the profile on the double chin. I wonder how it ranks against other types of treatment addressing the same issues. “It’s by far a safer alternative, I believe, to the other forms of body contouring and fat reduction on the market. It’s the most noninvasive, is FDA approved and has shown its effectiveness and results over time.”

Measurable loss is judged by statistics taken at the start and finish of a series of treatments. I’m curious how long the process usually takes. Katrina tells me: “I can normally see skin tightening and how responsive the skin is in the first couple of treatments. Usually around four to six you see measurable weight loss. I say an average of eight treatments is needed for the best shot.” I ask if every time she will see a discernable result, the reply is emphatic. “Yes, that’s why I’m in business!”

Katrina reiterates the value of this treatment combined with self-care and a healthy, active lifestyle. “It’s a very complimentary treatment for people who are motivated to improve themselves, and for those with stubborn areas that they just couldn’t move along with exercise alone.” And is it permanent? “Once the fat cells are reduced, they don’t come back in that area.”

This may sound like the holy grail of fat combat, but Kat emphasises it’s not a quick fix. While aesthetics is a crowded market, Katrina is not jostling for a space. She has invested in the very best equipment, is constantly training, has experience, skill and above all works on a one to one. Her clients are in safe hands; she knows it, and most importantly, they know it.

ABOUTYOUMEDISPA.CO.NZ

Reggae, revolution and red red wine

Karl Puschmann catches up with Ali Campbell, the legendary UB40 frontman, to talk band beginnings, protest and politics, their big hits, and why he can’t wait to bring the band’s reggae vibes back to the Bay.

Ali Campbell is bleary-eyed but upbeat when UNO calls. It’s 8am in the UK, and the UB40 frontman only got home from a European festival tour yesterday.

“It’s all a bit mad here,” he jokes, before settling in for a breezy and candid chat about UB40, the influential reggae band he co-founded in 1978 and led to global success before inner band turbulence saw them splitting into two groups.

But before getting into the past, we need to talk about his future return to Aotearoa to headline music festival Kingston Calling this Waitangi Weekend. The brand new reggae tour, with seven stops across the North Island, also features Katchafire, The Black Seeds and Corrella.

“I’m very, very happy to be coming back. It’s one of my favourite places,” he enthuses. “I’ve got a lot of friends there, a lot of Māori friends, so we always have a great time. It's a beautiful country.”

Then he pauses and says, “There are some weird things happening politically that I'm not too sure of. I've heard about the new Prime Minister... I've got to look at all that.”

You may think it’s unusual that a British music icon would know about or even be interested in our politics, but Ali has a long history with our country. He lived here for months when he was a judge on reality show New Zealand’s Got Talent back in 2012, his current tour manager is Māori and he’s even taken the time to read something that a lot of us haven’t; the Treaty of Waitangi.

“I lived in the middle of Auckland in the Viaduct. I know my way around,” he laughs. “And, of course, we've travelled extensively around both the North and the South Islands.”

Aotearoa’s always had a huge love for UB40. This stretches right back to the band’s cracking debut single, the politically charged deep reggae groove of Food For Thought, which topped our charts in 1980, to give the band their first-ever Number One hit. But when I ask why he thinks the band has resonated with us Kiwis so much, he’s modest, saying, “It’s not UB40 that people love. It's the music. People love reggae music.”

“Reggae is unifying, and it's still cool today,” he continues. “That's the important thing. It's still cool. People like us because we're an accessible reggae band.”

Ali grew up in South Birmingham, “on the wrong side of the tracks,” as he says, surrounded by the colourful sounds of the Caribbean and Asian cultures that were his neighbours. Unlike most of England at that time, it was a true multicultural environment, and one that impacted his world view.

“I was very lucky. I had Jamaican, Indian, West Indian and Arabic friends. I grew up amongst this melting pot. I loved it. It gave me a broad outlook on life. I wasn't prejudiced against anybody. Just fascists, I didn't like them. I’d go to a lot of anti-fascist demos and all that stuff. But we'd do it all together.”

Then grinning he adds, “And generally, the police were our enemies. Everybody else was friends.”

Aged 15 he went and saw Bob Marley and the Wailers in concert. It would be a transformative experience.

“It was like seeing the Messiah. I was totally blown away,” he says, a note of awe still resonating in his voice. “The year before that, I'd seen the Jackson 5. And that also blew me away because I was a mad Jackson 5 fan as well. Those two years basically showed my musical future to me. It was life-changing.”

After the show, he decided to form a band. But his plan had two big problems.

“We didn't know how to play. And we didn't have any instruments, so we... acquired our instruments, let's say,” he laughs. “We were on the dole, so we couldn't go and buy them. We had to acquire them.”

With instruments “acquired”, all they had to do next was learn how to play them. To do this, they continually played the 12” version of Gregory Isaacs reggae hit, ‘Mr Know It All’, which features a dub breakdown in the middle, deconstructing each part and slowly working it out by playing along. Eventually, they got to the point where the record stopped and they could continue jamming.

“And that's how we learned to play. Six months later, we'd written our first album, which went on to sell eight million copies. It was ridiculous,” he grins.

That album was Signing Off, a groundbreaking and politically charged album of deep groove reggae whose music and message still resonate today.

“We followed Bob Marley's lead and other reggae artists like Lee Perry, who were political. We felt obliged if we got a platform to write something relevant. And we continue to do so.”

As an example, he cites ‘Burden of Shame’, which, when he sings it live now, has the lyrics “A baby in Gaza dies,” instead of “A boy in Soweto dies”.

“Depressingly, the songs are still as relevant as they were when we wrote them,” he sighs. “I've learned that you don't change anything by singing about it. It's as simple as that. All we're doing is voicing an opinion. It doesn't change anything. Things might have got worse even.”

As well as their political material, UB40 also explored the smoother, pop-leaning side of reggae, with their hugely popular Labour of Love albums, which saw them performing covers of the songs that had influenced them, like ‘Red Red Wine’, ‘The Way You Do the Things You Do’ and ‘Here I Am (Come and Take Me)’.

“We kept getting asked about why we played reggae, so we decided to do those albums,” he says, laughing that they’d been strongly advised against recording a covers album. Labour of Love would top global charts, including here, and go on to sell over 21 million copies.

“They’re the songs we used to hear on jukeboxes in cafés where we used to hang out as kids, playing pinball and running errands for prostitutes. We grew up listening to those songs. We loved them, and we knew that anybody else who got to hear them would love them as well. And we were right.”

After 24 years together, tensions within the band led to a split in 2008, with Ali moving on to front his own group, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, while the remaining members continued under the original name.

“When I left it was sad, but I couldn't carry on with them. They wouldn't let me promote my second solo album, which was called Running Free, ironically enough,” he says. “All I wanted was a month off to promote it, and they were steadfastly telling me I couldn't do it, so I walked. It’s all very silly and a very petty argument. But I was quite happy to leave and I've had a great time since. I've got my new band, who are all seasoned reggae players, and I love them. That's who I'm bringing to New Zealand. I think they’re the best band around.”

Which makes them a fitting choice to headline Kingston Calling, especially as it’s the first-ever concert to be played at The Bay Oval, in the heart of Mount Maunganui.

“I'm a little bit nervous,” Ali admits when asked how it feels to be christening this new venue. “But it's fun being the first to do anything really.”

I confess to taking a sneak peek at some of his recent setlists, which gets a chuckle when I say he’s bringing some absolute bangers that will keep all fans of UB40’s multifaceted career extremely satisfied.

“It's more or less a Greatest Hits set,” he smiles. “We're not self-indulgent. We know what the people want to hear, so that's what we do.”

Purchase tickets to Kingston Calling at

kingstoncalling.co.nz

A new rhythm

After calling the Waikato home all his life, Katchafire frontman Logan Bell recently moved to the Bay.

It was just two short years ago that Logan Bell, the Katchafire frontman, and his family made the move from the Waikato to Tauranga’s Welcome Bay. For his wife, who grew up in the Bay, it was a return to her roots, but for Logan it was a completely new experience. While he’d toured the world many times over with the band, the Waikato was the only place he’d ever called home.

“This is the first time I've moved away,” he admits. “We love it here. It's really awesome for our family. I love my house. I'm a total homebody. I don't go anywhere else”.

Then he laughs and says, “I’m nearly a real local now, bro. I almost don't need Google Maps to get around now.”

Already, he says, the relaxed lifestyle, beachtown vibes and the musical community here in the Bay has begun to influence his music.

“Your environment and your vibe always has a lot to do with what's coming out creatively. This morning I was in the studio with Tiki Taane. The other week, me, Laughton Kora, Fran Kora and Joel from LAB got together and had a bit of a jam. It's just a nice community here and a nice vibe for me.”

Over their almost 30-year-long career, Katachfire has become one of Aotearoa’s most beloved reggae bands, first coming to national attention with their 2003 debut album Revival, before building an international audience through hits like ‘Frisk Me Down’, ‘Giddy Up’ and ‘Get Away’ and going on to tour with legendary reggae acts like The Wailers, Shaggy, Lauryn Hill, and, of course, UB40 who they’re sharing the stage with at Kingston Calling.

“We’re blessed to get the call up,” he smiles. “UB40 has always been a huge inspiration of ours, we kind of modeled our career off them. We’ve followed their example and their path in a lot of ways.”

While music styles come in and out of fashion, reggae’s popularity has never waned, especially here in Aotearoa. This, Logan says, is because

reggae is the “people’s music”.

“It touches on matters of truth. And a lot of it's to do with the underdog truth, the sufferer's truth. We, as a nation, are born of that. We can identify with these stories, and we have our own to tell as well. That's why I think it's so easy for us to feel connected to reggae and feel a part of the music and the messages.”

Perfection

Harbour serenity meets architectural elegance in this elevated Matua masterpiece, where every window frames a postcard-worthy panorama.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Tauranga Harbour’s diverse fascination fuels its magnetism for anyone yearning to savour scenery and the soothing appeal of water. With the added attraction of Fergusson Park on the doorstep, this property benefits from a wider playground — an extension of an already idyllic setting.

Waratah Street’s ridgeline embraces the aura of this rare position, which this home takes full advantage of. North facing, it basks in sun all day. Views stretch across to Matakana Island — Mauao to the right, postcard scenery up the harbour, with the Kaimais behind and Coromandel in the distance. Smart design ensures views are centre stage.

The house was built in the 1970s. Not that you’d think so. A substantial transformation in 2010 elevated it to a house with significant presence. The style is contemporary. It’s timeless and focused on scenery. Full-height glazing combines with pill-box features to serve a dual purpose. Raised ceilings enhance space and light in living areas. Floor-length glazing offers seamless connections with the views, while also harnessing solar warmth. At night, lighting comes into its own, with discreet placement inside and garden features infusing candlelit magic.

This is most noticeable in family living. The kitchen’s sleek lines adopt a futuristic slant, negative detail, refining the clean look. The wall-hung style of the cooking station highlights the bespoke design and allows lighting to hide below the unit for creative effect. Similarly, hidden lighting in the unit above instils further finesse to this kitchen’s individual statement. Cooks will appreciate the scullery and quality appliances. Friends will be drawn to the bar-stool setting. There’s even a dedicated coffee counter for baristas.

Formal dining and family relaxation both have full command of the harbour outlook, while sliding doors open to sheltered decking to enhance the connection. Moods change in the main lounge next door; its vaulted ceiling also enjoying added height and light from pill-box windows. The feature wall housing the gas fire and distinctive cabinetry instil the vibe of a private club, yet eyes turn quickly to the characteristic glass wall. It is another innovative aspect that not only expands the use of natural light; it visually extends this room and introduces the harbour scenery from the foyer.

This grand entrance is also the internal stairwell from the garage below. But the lower level also houses an office, or another lounge, if you prefer. With its own garden courtyard to enjoy time in the sun, there are options for this room’s use.

Three bedrooms sit upstairs, headlined by the master suite, with its direct harbour view. While this bedroom’s deck offers a level of privacy, it handshakes with the larger setting off living rooms next door. The sheltered terrace is the central feature of the various outdoor settings that surround the home — a focal point to enjoy the scenery and toast sunset each evening. Two more bedrooms share a luxury bathroom, which is a similar design to the master’s ensuite, with twin vanities and a glassless, wet shower.

Privacy is an integral element of this home. A remotely operated vehicle gate and digital lock on the pedestrian gate ensure security from the street, while a padlocked, personal access to the sloping green belt offers a direct link with Fergusson Park and harbour walkways below.

Immaculate throughout, with attention to detail adding five-star personality to every room, this home nestles within beautifully-landscaped gardens — lawns, mature trees, a raised kitchen garden and sculpted plant beds. There’s even a putting green. It doesn’t stop there, however. An enviable list of chattels includes two TVs, four heat pumps, inbuilt sound speakers, an ornamental fountain and irrigation, to name a few.

A home of substance, prestige and captivating views - Matua awaits.

145 Waratah Street, Matua

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Changing the glow game

If your skin has lost its spark, Cashmore Clinic’s Leanne Cashmore has the solution.

In clinic, I often see clients trying to decide between resurfacing or rejuvenation, as though one must come at the expense of the other. But skin changes in tone, texture, firmness and clarity, so why treat it with a one-note solution?

Ultra Veloce, our latest treatment and a new favourite among clients, brings together two of the most advanced technologies in aesthetics, and, as a skin nerd, I’m genuinely excited by what this combination can do.

The first step uses broadband light from the Super Veloce 4800, which is a new arrival to New Zealand and, in my view, a quiet revolution in skin therapy. Think of it as a reset button that targets redness, pigmentation, rosacea, broken capillaries and even hormonal acne. And unlike older IPL machines, it’s surprisingly comfortable.

Then comes the LaseMD UltraTM, a non-ablative fractional laser that works deeper in the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin. This isn’t just about smoothing fine lines or softening scars (although it does that brilliantly). It’s about activating the skin’s own repair mechanisms. One client called it “a wake-up call for my face,” and I loved that.

What makes this combination truly special is that the results are both immediate and progressive. You’ll see a glow within days, yes, but over the weeks, as new collagen forms and old pigmentation fades, the transformation continues. Skin becomes more resistant to future damage.

And it’s not limited to just the face. We’ve used Ultra Veloce to treat sun-damaged chests, ageing hands and scarring on the arms and legs. It’s for anyone wanting to feel confident in their skin, not just in makeup or good lighting.

Ultimately, every skin journey is personal. But if you’ve been looking for something that meets your skin where it’s at, this may be exactly what you need.

CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ

Clear vision

Optometrist Alex Petty opens our eyes to smarter eye care, new tech and lifelong sight.

PHOTOS KATIE COX

Alex Petty.

When it comes to eye health, most of us don’t give our eyes a second thought until something feels off. Blurry mornings, tired evenings or a mysterious twitch that won’t quit usually puts our eye health on the radar.

Now Alex Petty, director of Bay Eye Care in Tauranga and UNO’s newest expert voice on all things vision, is here to shift your perspective, both literally and figuratively.

Originally from Auckland, Alex returned to New Zealand in 2016, after years working in Australia. The pull was a love for the Bay lifestyle and the chance to fill a crucial gap in specialist eye care. Nine months later, Bay Eye Care opened its doors. Today, it’s a nationally recognised clinic with a reputation that stretches across the ditch.

“What sets us apart is that we don’t sell glasses,” Alex explains. “We focus 100 percent on clinical care.” That means no upselling and no retail pressure, just expert advice grounded in what’s best for your eyes. It’s an approach that’s earned the clinic a growing fanbase of families who’ve stayed with Alex for years.

The Bay Eye Care team from left: Grace Elliot-Brown and optometrists Aidan Quinlan and Alex Petty.

And it’s not just about what he does, it’s how he does it. Alex’s philosophy combines personal connection with cutting-edge innovation. “No two people, and no two sets of eyes, are the same,” he says. “Understanding someone’s story helps us offer truly tailored care.”

That blend of empathy and expertise has turned Bay Eye Care into a go-to destination for advanced treatments. We’re talking Ortho-K (overnight lenses that reshape your cornea while you sleep), custom lenses for keratoconus, high-tech solutions for dry eye and the clinic's latest investment, LipiFlow, which treats dry eye at its root by unblocking the oil glands in your eyelids.

They're also ahead of the curve with genetic testing for glaucoma, using a simple cheek swab to assess your risk and personalise your treatment plan. It's science, but with a heart.

Still, for Alex, the real reward lies in the long-term relationships. “I’ve watched kids grow up in my clinic, coming in shy at age eight, then at sixteen they’re tall, confident and talking about their future. That connection is what it’s all about.”

In 2020, when Alex faced a sudden cancer diagnosis, he was forced to step away from the clinic for three months.

While away, he was overwhelmed by the messages of support. “People wrote to say I’d changed their life or helped their child see again. I never expected that. It reminded me why we do what we do.”

Now, he’s bringing that same passion to the pages of UNO, kicking off a four-part series to bust myths, share insights and answer the most common questions about eye health.

First on his list? Contact lens hygiene. Alex warns that wearing lenses longer than prescribed or sleeping in them is a major no-no. “Even if you’ve never had a problem, all it takes is one bad bug, to risk a potentially blinding infection. You only get one set of eyes!” Alex warns. He’s also ready to set the record straight on reading glasses. “They don’t make your eyes worse. That’s a myth,” he laughs. “As we age, our eye structures naturally change, causing vision issues. Putting off help just leads to more strain and frustration. The good news is that there are amazing solutions, from high-tech contact lenses to surgery.”

Alex's new column will cut through the jargon, offer practical advice and answer the questions many of us didn’t even know we had. Keep an eye out for it in the next issue.

BAYEYECARE.CO.NZ

Level up

TheLab Athletic Club, a HYROX-accredited facility, is elevating fitness right here in Tauranga.

PHOTOS ALAN GIBSON

Chas Clark.

When pro athlete Chas Clark decided to open a fitness centre, he knew it had to be something special. Something different.

TheLab Athletic Club is the fulfilment of that vision. In the heart of Tauranga, it’s a new kind of fitness and wellness facility that puts as much emphasis on training and recovery as it does on its community.

“At our facility, we aim to transform the training experience with an inspiring space designed to elevate your fitness journey," explains Chas. "Our progressive approach not only challenges but nurtures, creating an environment where you're encouraged to not only discover but to surpass your potential in all areas of health and wellness." The gym offers group classes, personal training, Vo2 max testing, hyperbaric chambers, saunas, physio and a café (Solara) onsite.

The premium facility offers purpose-driven, science-backed functional fitness classes that supports individuals in everyday activities through to triathlons, running, cycling, functional fitness and hybrid racing events. It’s also the leading HYROX-accredited facility in the Bay, with multiple coaches and members representing New Zealand in the breakthrough sport at the recent World Championships in Chicago back in June this year.

But, he says, it’s seeing the potential in each individual, as well as connection, that's at the heart of the experience.

“Community to me means eliminating the barriers that we set ourselves, or those that are placed upon us," says Chas. "Connecting through learned experiences, with a passion to embrace growth in ourselves and others, is vital."

With 660m2 of space, multiple class offerings and the popular café, Solara, offering sensational coffee, nutritious smoothies, bowls and other rotating selections, the facility has become a hub of wellness and social connection.

“It’s a nice space to do a workout and get a really good coffee or a protein shake, afterwards,” he smiles.

Having only opened their doors eight months ago, Chas says he’s stoked with the community response, seeing plenty of new faces coming in the doors each week from near and far, and with the warmer months approaching, it’s only going to keep growing.

“Coming into summer, we’re seeing a lot more buzz around for sure. With the longer, warmer days we always see an increase within the fitness space, with participation and people actively seeking events to train for and attend. Our Sunday Service session has been a hit, especially for those seeking to know more in the HYROX space."

It may sound a lot, but the team has worked hard to ensure TheLab is as welcoming to beginners and competitive athletes. “We have tried and tested for years to ensure a well-balanced programme that gets the most out of you as an individual, in terms of feeling strong, confident, fit and just being an absolute weapon when you need to be.”

BECAUSETHELAB.CO.NZ

HYROX hits the Bay

HYROX is the new fitness trend taking the world by storm. But what is it and why has it become so popular, so fast? UNO investigates.

PHOTO ALAN GIBSON

By now, you’ve probably heard of HYROX, the hot new fitness craze that’s taken over the fitness world, and most likely your social feeds, at a cracking pace. But what is it? And why are so many people getting into it?

“HYROX is a new fitness race, I guess you’d call it,” Francis Bondad, the gym affiliation manager for HYROX New Zealand, explains. “The format is standardised globally, so each race is consistent worldwide. That allows athletes to compare their times and ranking across global events.”

This, we suspect, is one of the keys to its lightning-quick success. With its ease of accessibility and competitive slant that can be as casual or hardcore as you like, it tickles that part of the brain that other fitness disciplines can’t. In some ways, it’s similar to the far more serene sport of golf in that most participants’ biggest rival will be their last high score.

HYROX started in Germany only eight short years ago. Like all sports, there are various categories to compete in, but the format is the same for each: run 1km to a functional workout station, complete the task, then repeat the process another seven times. Each workout station is different and could include things like burpee board jumps, sandbag lunges or kettlebells.

It’s simple enough not to be intimidating to newbies wanting to have a crack, but formidable enough to challenge even elite athletes.

“That’s the reason it stands out,” Francis smiles. “Anyone can compete. There’s that inclusivity where athletes of all levels can compete at their own pace, at their own race. If you’re a first timer who wants to give HYROX a go, you can do it. The second time, you might want to beat your time. Seasoned or elite athletes can compete in the global rankings.”

“The easiest way to explain HYROX is if CrossFit and triathlon had a baby,” Chas Clark grins.

Chas is a pro athlete who has competed in 10 HYROX events around the globe and represented Aotearoa at the World Championships in June. He’s also behind TheLab Athletic Club, a hybrid training facility in Tauranga that offers dedicated HYROX classes for those keen to get involved.

“It’s a phenomenon,” he enthuses. “It’s just so accessible, and they’ve really built a culture around it. Anyone can do the race; you don’t need a million things in terms of equipment, and you don’t have to do any sort of crazy diet to perform. You can just go and have fun.”

Another unique thing about HYROX is that its events are held indoors. Chas makes these sound more like a party than a serious and strenuous athletic event, with DJs and live music and a boisterous crowd spectating in the stands.

“It’s kind of like a rave. There are smoke machines, loud music and everyone’s come to watch. In Sydney, for example, 21,000 people are competing, and 30,000 people are inside the stadium watching and cheering,” he laughs.

“It’s absolutely wild. The vibe is amazing,” Francis adds. “Once you’ve done one, you’re pretty much hooked because it’s fun.”

He has simple advice for anyone who may want to give it a go. “Start running,” he says. “It’s 50 percent of HYROX with the eight 1km runs. Get used to jogging first, then progress to running. But if you don’t have that level of fitness, then you can reach out to our HYROX-affiliated gyms. All the coaches are HYROX certified and can help you build your fitness and then on to your first race.”

For Chas, the fact that it gives you a goal to aim for, the big race days, gives it the edge over other fitness regimes or just hitting the gym.

“It’s an accessible fitness race for everyone, from the everyday person to the elite,” he says. “There’s something to work towards with a start, a finish and an end goal. If you want to train and achieve a goal within yourself, you can. But there’s also the opportunity to take it more seriously and really chase that elite level and treat it like an actual sport. It’s really accommodating to both professional athletes and everyday fitness.”

“But the most important thing is that those who are interested just get out there and give it a go,” says Chas. “The sense of accomplishment you feel when you finish an event is worth it for that alone.”

Blooms with heart

Melissa Cox has opened her lush Pāpāmoa garden, to provide local brides with budget-friendly blooms that are all grown with love.

WORDS JO-MARIE BAKER | PHOTOS KATIE COX

Flowers add a glorious touch to weddings and other special occasions but can often set you back thousands of dollars.

That’s why avid gardener Melissa Cox is now offering an affordable alternative by launching a new business called Pāpāmoa Pick Your Own Flowers. Here you can help yourself to as many blooms and as much greenery as you can carry for just $100.

Dubbed ‘the little garden with a big heart’, Melissa wants to help those who cannot afford traditional florist services.

“I love florists but I remember how stressful it was to not only plan a wedding, but to pay for it. I’m filling a niche for people who don’t have the money in this economy but still want pretty flowers for their wedding, baby shower, birthday, tangi or corporate event.

“I firmly believe in community and helping each other out. I’m already growing flowers in my garden, so if you need them, take them.”

Melissa also goes the extra mile to make flower picking a special experience by playing relaxing music and serving cold drinks and biscuits. “People just need to bring their own buckets. I’ll provide scissors and garden gloves,” she smiles.

Only two bookings per week are available between October and April, to ensure there’s enough flowers to go around. Brides-to-be can bring up to three helpers with them, and have a maxiumum of one hour to pick whatever they like from Melissa’s home garden.

“My favourite are lilies because they’re just like starbursts of happiness. Calla lilies were my wedding flower, and royal lilies are incredibly fragrant. I really love ferns too, so I have several kinds growing here. I love everything that looks whimsical.”

The scent of lavender greets everyone who visits this standard residential-sized garden. But in spring and summer it’s bursting with dahlias, hydrangeas, carpet and long-stemmed roses, gerberas, gladioli, statice (sea lavender), African daisies, flowering herbs and every shade of green foliage imaginable. “I have lots of random wildflowers everywhere too. I never know where they’re going to pop up!”

People are welcome to visit in autumn and winter also, where for a discounted price of $75, they can pick any greenery they like along with long-stem lavender, African daisies, pink camellias and flowering jade.

While most people are happy to assemble their own bouquets, vases or table arrangements at home, Melissa can whip up a bridal bouquet for $50 or a bridesmaid bouquet for $25 if floral arranging isn’t your forte.

“My mum was an interior decorator and a dried flower arranger who ran her own gift shop. On the side she also did fresh flower bouquets to order, so she taught me how to do a good job of arranging a bouquet.”

Melissa can also source affordable supplementary blooms or specific colours that people might require from other local growers. “There is a wonderful dahlia grower in Tauriko who I partner with. For $25 I can have a bunch of high-end dahlias waiting here for you in whatever size or colour you want, depending on the season.”

Melissa developed her garden from scratch during Covid lockdowns after buying her Pāpāmoa home in 2020.

“I garden for therapy. It’s proven to be good for you. Serotonin, your happy hormone, increases when you’re in the sun, in the dirt, and connecting with nature.”

Melissa’s secret is to water regularly and feed the garden heavily with fertiliser. She never uses pesticides, instead spraying plants with neem oil and apple cider vinegar to keep bugs and diseases at bay.

“Unless it’s a drought, things will flower. Because when you cut them back, they want to flower more. I grow a lot from seed and from cuttings from friends. I’m installing new flower beds at the moment because of the interest in this business. I’m planning to put in more hydrangea -really cute little ones that are white. And more wildflowers because they reseed themselves.”

Melissa’s goal isn’t to make money from her new business. “The only reason I charge is to help pay for my fertiliser. I hope this garden can help a lot of people.”

PAPAMOA.FLOWERS

A legend lives on

Sir Gordon Tietjens is busy creating a new legacy off the field.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS ALAN GIBSON

“I built my teams based on traditional values, honesty, respect, humility... all the qualities you need in an individual. Then you had to create the culture. You want to pick players that are prepared to roll their sleeves up and work hard. Because that’s the Sevens game.”

While Sir Gordon Tietjens is clearly discussing the attributes needed in an elite sportsperson, there’s a direct alignment with the qualities needed to build a solid business. After an exceptional career spanning 22 years of coaching the All Black Sevens team (while simultaneously working at Bay Engineering Supplies), Sir Gordon left a legacy in this field that most New Zealanders would agree has been unparalleled. He has, however, more recently found his niche in another sports related arena. In 2019 he was approached to become brand ambassador for Legend Sportswear; he jumped at the challenge of this new opportunity but quickly realised that it was something to which he could add not just gravitas, but also his expertise. As with everything he does, rather than being a figure head, this is a ‘boots and all’ role.

Player from Rotorua Primary School wearing Legend Sportswear.

The Legend Sportswear brand had only recently established itself in apparel when Sir Gordon came on board. It had already been successfully operating in garment manufacture since 2004 from its dedicated factory in Shanghai. When Mandy Qi and Looi Tan, the Australian owners, decided to move into sportswear, they first targeted the Pacific market, quickly making firm inroads into the sports circles of Australia and Fiji, securing the apparel supply for the Newcastle Jets in Australia and the Fiji rugby league team to go to the World Cup. Coming on as brand ambassador, Sir Gordon straight away immersed himself in the role — representing, speaking and promoting the brand. However, it wasn’t long before he saw that here was a gap in the New Zealand market, and one that Legend Sportswear could fill.

Australian owners of Legend Sportswear Mandy Qi & Looi Tan.

“I saw a real opportunity to build and grow our brand,” says Sir Gordon. “Two of us started up, my current office manager Amelia Tagica and myself, and straight away we contracted three sports clubs in the Bay of Plenty. It’s just grown from there. We’ve now got an office here, three graphic designers and three administrators.”

Initially concentrating on sportswear, Legend is now the choice for adults and children across multiple sports disciplines, plus school sports and even school uniforms.

For a person with a public persona, becoming the name - and face - of a brand is layered. Of course, the exposure is there from the offset, however, there is a definite responsibility to the public that the product lives up to the endorsement. There is no question in Sir Gordon’s mind that Legend Sportswear is more than worthy of having his name behind it. He knows that Legend’s core values align with his own - trustworthy, affordable, high-quality and exceptional customer service.

“I see more than anything that you need to build relationships, and within that relationship you build trust. That to me is the real key,” he explains. “That’s what it’s all about. If you want to build the brand you build it around being professional and being right up there and competing with the best... Being a new brand we’ve got to prove ourselves. That’s what we’ve been doing, and we’ve seen the growth.”

The quality is, of course, important. Without doubt there are aspects to the construction process that Sir Gordon is very proud - sublimation (a technique where design is transferred onto the fabric) being one. Another is their ability to be flexible and make changes to the stock design, plus a high level of sustainability; something the company stands behind.

Of huge importance too is the process itself. “One of the real benefits is that we provide the opportunity for our customers to come in and sit with our graphics team to do their own designs... You might spend a couple of hours, but your designs are approved and set and away you go.”

Add to this the efficient rollout: “A big positive for us is the delivery. Our times are really good,” he adds. “We’re looking at four weeks, sometimes three, from the confirmation of the artwork being approved and the order being placed.”

I wonder how Sir Gordon’s background and expertise plays into the whole process. “I suppose because I’ve been immersed in sport, coaching the All Black Sevens for 22 years, and I’ve been involved in the different apparel companies. I know the expectations of what an athlete wants and what’s good and what’s not. And I’m putting my name next to a product that excites an athlete, that they really want to wear and

that’s good quality.”

As a home-grown Bay of Plenty native, Sir Gordon holds his authenticity and the value of personal service dear, which is why when the product arrives, it’s in a van being delivered by Sir Gordon himself.

LEGENDSPORTSWEAR.CO.NZ

Beyond the surface

Artist Jacki Barklie fuses emotion and bold experimentation to create striking, unconventional works.

For over three decades, Jacki Barklie has explored the delicate interplay between human connection and identity through both her creative professions, first as a hairdresser and now as a multi-disciplinary artist.

With roots in Africa and a passion for the psyche, her work delves into themes of fragility and desire, often expressed through mixed media, printmaking, textiles and photography.

After completing a Bachelor Degree in Creative Industries, Jacki embraced experimentation and introspection, creating art that pushes boundaries and celebrates the unconventional. Here she shares insights into her process, and the emotional resonance behind her evocative works.

UNO: How did your creative background in hairdressing shape your approach to art today? Jacki: Hairdressing trained my eye for form, texture and design. It was sculpture in motion. I treated hair like fabric, shaping and layering with intention. Competing creatively honed my skills, but it was always about the human connection. Listening to people and understanding their emotional relationship with aesthetics now flows into how I create and share my art.

You were brought up in Africa. Can you share a specific memory or cultural influence that continues to inspire your art? Africa lives in my bones. There, creativity comes from what’s at hand, such as clay, dyes, dust, fabric. That bold innovation still inspires me. I remember painting with earth and watching patterns emerge from chance. Sometimes, I feel you can almost smell African dust in my work. Its textures, warmth and raw energy continue to guide my hands.

What was the turning point that led you to pursue a Bachelor Degree in Creative Industries later in life? After 37 years in hairdressing and countless night art classes, I craved full immersion. I didn’t want a traditional fine art degree. I needed one that embraced creative risk. The Creative Industries degree was a perfect fit for me. I’m a multimedia artist whose work evolves from one material to the next.

How do you decide which medium, whether acrylics, textiles, printmaking or photography, best suits the idea or emotion you’re trying to express? It starts with a feeling or story. From there, I follow the materials that speak to that idea. I explore the tension between materiality, light and shadow, stillness and movement. Whether I choose textiles or ink, the medium must hold that emotional vibration. It’s instinctive, process driven and always rooted in intention.

What role does experimentation play in your creative practice? Experimentation is everything. I’m a curious artist drawn to risk and discovery. I often research ancient methods and remix them with contemporary techniques. I love when the unexpected happens, like when a material surprises me. That’s where the magic is. Every piece starts as a question, and sometimes the answer comes through failure.

How do you think our environments shape our emotional or psychological states? We’re deeply shaped by our surroundings. My art often reflects the fractured rhythms of the world and offers a kind of stillness in return. I explore contrasts in form, reflection, old and new, raw and refined. Within these tensions, I find beauty. My work invites presence, asking viewers not just to look, but to feel.

As someone who celebrates the unusual, what draws you to the unconventional or unexpected? The unexpected excites me – it’s alive and full of truth. While I admire tradition, I often find it too familiar. The unconventional feels raw and present. It’s not trying to be anything but itself. That honesty inspires me. It challenges the rules, breaks them if needed and that’s where true innovation begins.

How do you stay true to your raw, emotionally-driven approach? I know my “why.” I show up in the studio daily and follow what feeds my soul. I let the process guide me, not trends. I create art that moves me first, trusting that it will resonate with someone else. If I had to make formulaic work, I’d lose the heartbeat. Emotion keeps it alive.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to explore their creative side later in life? Start now. But take it seriously. Don’t shrink yourself to ‘just crafting.’ Be brave, be messy, try everything. Follow what excites you. Let failure be part of the fun. You’re never too old to become who you are creatively meant to be. The second half of life is the perfect time to rediscover yourself.

How long have you been in the Bay and what do you love about it? We’ve been in the Bay for 27 years. It has been our longest home since emigrating twice. The weather drew us in, but our friends and pace kept us. My husband is my rock, and our home is a sanctuary. Our grown kids are flying, and I’m living the dream with my studio, surrounded by light, love and space to create.

Jackie is holding a solo exhibition titled ’SURFACE TENSION' from October 24 to November 2, celebrating her new body of work.

BACKSTUDIO.NZ

BACKSTUDIO_

A decade of dapper

Bond & Co celebrates a decade downtown, and the timeless art of tailoring.

WORDS Nicky Adams | PHOTOS Jahl Marshall

Jason Dovey is marking 10 years under the Bond & Co brand with a stylish new store refit. Of course there will be other celebrations rolled out, but the milestone of achieving a decade in the business of bespoke menswear and tailoring is one which he doesn’t take lightly.

Starting in the trade as a teenager in 1987, Jason has been in Devonport Road since 1992. In 2015 he opened his own store, specialising not only in bespoke tailoring, but also made-to-measure and carefully-curated off-the-rack pieces. After 10 years, he would probably consider that he has risen to the challenge he undertook when he made the decision to bring an upmarket menswear store to downtown Tauranga. Walking into the recently completed refitted store, the brighter, lighter feel is immediately apparent. Ushering in a new era, the interior has a sleek, modern finish, while still retaining the personalised feel for which Jason and his longstanding trusted team of wife Michelle, Chris, Marie and Jack, are known. Head towards the changing rooms at the back, and customers can sink into a leather armchair next to a fireplace while they consider their options.

It’s an exciting time to be in men’s apparel, where beautifully cut and styled menswear is increasingly celebrated as more than equal in impact to women’s fashion. With this recognition comes a greater ability to bring pieces to the market that Jason understands his clients appreciate.

“Since Covid our local suppliers have introduced international brands to their businesses as a way of going forward, so we’ve been able to source exciting, quality menswear pieces that are totally unique,” says Jason.

He brings out a selection of stunning shirts; one from R2 Amsterdam, another from Guide London who specialise in a sophisticated range of coordinated shirts, blazers and pants. A Fish Named Fred is a label that excels at patterns, reflecting the demand for pieces that are individual as well as stylish. The last one he shows me is a classic shirt from Florentino, an Italian brand; beautifully cut and detailed, crafted from high-quality fabric, which epitomises sophistication.

When showcasing his latest collection, it’s clear that for Jason his customer base is always front and centre in his consideration. He agrees: “We’re relationship based; it’s the personal touch that we want to deliver. We’re not a shopping cart business; we want face to face communication with customers in store.”

This also plays into another key aspect of the business. “The most important part is the fit of the clothes,” he adds. “People get put off when they pull something off a rack and it doesn’t look good. But our expertise is helping find the pieces that will work, and making sure every well-dressed man looks good.”

The connection with customers and the community is pivotal. Jason reflects on the fact that one aspect of the industry that keeps him invested (for which he is incredibly grateful) is the loyalty and support of his customers, both longstanding ones (some of which have been shopping with him for 30 years), and new. As we discuss the value of supporting local business, Jason laughs. He mentions that James Ashcroft, the internationally acclaimed movie director (who coincidentally was a recent UNO cover star) had come to him for tailoring prior to moving to New York to shoot his film with Robert De Niro. He then popped back in for more pieces on a whistlestop trip home. “Funny to think he’s shopped here for clothes to wear in New York,” he says.

I ask whether the past 10 years has seen a change in customer shopping habits. “Yes, absolutely. Men are undoubtedly more adventurous in what they will wear and what they’ll be styled in.” It’s refreshing to see more men embracing what a well-cut suit can do for not just their wardrobe, but also their confidence. The beauty of menswear is that pieces tend to be style, rather than trend driven, and the changes that happen are subtle and slow. I wonder if there’s anything currently influencing new looks. Jason points out that trousers have reverted to a classic straight leg rather than skinny, lapels have started to get fractionally wider, but quite exciting he says, is the slow evolution of the double-breasted jacket. “We haven’t seen it for about 30 years, and there’s been a few attempts to revive it. But this time I think it’s going to stick.”

With event and wedding season just beginning in earnest, Jason and the team are already seeing a buzz around tailoring, with some customers often finding either celebrity driven pieces or outfits on Instagram that have caught their eye. With events forming an important part of the business, Bond & Co know how to transform someone’s inspiration into reality, starting with that perfectly-cut suit. There are other ways to bring to life a look though, as Jason says: “It’s all in the detail. Pocket squares, buttons, collar stitching, neck trims – these are the things that are impactful.” And finally colour; even through the cooler months there’s a demand for lighter toned jackets. And for a final take away, “New Zealand has changed,” reflects Jason. “Don’t be afraid to express yourself.”

BONDANDCO.CO.NZ

A fine balance

YOU Travel’s Brenda Stephen experienced sensory exhilaration and soulful serenity on a recent Uniworld trip: India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges.

WORDS Liz French

The spectacular Taj Mahal.

How to compare the experience of sunrise at the Taj Mahal with that of visiting the Calcutta Rescue Centre that supports children from the slums? “Wonder and awe for one and touched at the heart by the other,” says Brenda.

This is India, land of colour and contrasts, pace and peace. Uniworld’s tour delves right in by pairing the classic golden triangle of New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur with visits to rural communities off the beaten track. This provides a fine balance between the experience of huge cities with fabulous hotels and that of cruising the Ganges, mooring at villages seldom on travel itineraries.

The trip begins on land with five luxurious nights in the Golden Triangle, staying in Oberoi hotels. Each property exudes its own distinct personality and sense of place which delighted Brenda. “Agra’s Oberoi Amarvilas has a view of the Taj Mahal from every room and is just 600 metres from the Taj itself,” she explains. “Rose petals wafted from the roof as we arrived at Jaipur’s Oberoi Rajvilas, which is set around an ancient Shiva temple on 32 manured acres.”

The hotels are oases of calm after daily excursions by tuktuk, rickshaw or coach, with local guides, where you embrace the unique architecture, atmosphere and culture of each destination without worrying about the logistics.

Five-star floating

Then it’s onto your floating hotel after a flight to Kolkata to embark Uniworld’s Ganges Voyager II, the last word in riverboat luxury. The boat holds 56 passengers, 36 crew and colonially inspired suites with vantage points for watching the light over this everchanging river, sacred and central to life in the fertile and densely populated Ganges Delta.

This is home for the next seven nights. While the ship sails gently up the Ganges you settle into serenity, sip cocktails on the deck, dine on an Indian and international menu with ingredients from the local villages you visit enroute and even learn Indian culinary skills in cooking demonstrations. Informative nightly talks prepare you for your daily adventures, which include a river port dating to 1809 with magnificent Hindu temples, an authentic artisan market in a riverside village and the “Garden of Happiness”. Local guides complement the vast knowledge of the onboard experts.

Happiness is also wellness on the Ganges Voyager II, with daily yoga classes on the sundeck and Ayurvedic spa treatments and massages. “Very soothing after a day’s sightseeing!” Brenda enthuses.

At YOU Travel and Cruise the experienced staff are not about enabling you to simply tick off your bucket list. The question, “What do you want to get out of it?” is as important as, “Where do you want to go?”

If India really appeals, but you are a little apprehensive, and if you want to revel in its infinite variety without sweating the small stuff, group travel is the answer. Uniworld’s boutique itinerary exposes you to India’s myriad of sights, smells and sounds while providing a peaceful refuge to recover and recharge ready for the next foray into the unknown, with every detail thought of.

While this journey only covered a small corner of India, it has whetted Brenda’s appetite for more. “Because I was with a group, I did not find it daunting, quickly becoming comfortable with India’s ‘normal’,” she says. “Despite the luxury aspect of this tour, a big takeaway for me was the spirituality of the people and the joy in simplicity,” she says. “India is like Africa. It gets under your skin.”

YOUTRAVELBETHLEHEM.CO.NZ