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.

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

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

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

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

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

Hide and chic

With its bespoke, crafted solutions and radical service, Sorrento Shutters is bringing a timeless elegance to homes across the Bay.

Kane Burton-Brown still remembers the moment shutters first caught his eye. He was walking down a quiet street in London during his OE, when he noticed the sleek look of his neighbour’s bay window. The clean lines and the way the light was filtered made him stop. There was something different about it. Then he realised: it was the shutters.

“I remember thinking, ‘I really like that,’” he says. “It was the first time I’d properly noticed shutters and thought, ‘One day, I want those in my own home.’ After that, I started seeing them everywhere. They just stood out. They’re beautiful, they’re aesthetic and elegant, and they're very practical in terms of functionality in dealing with light control and privacy.”

It was this random observation that opened his eyes to the window treatments industry and led him to almost a decade helping people achieve that same mix of sophistication and utility that shutters offer. Eventually, this path led Kane to start Sorrento Shutters last year, a company he’s built on his belief in beautiful craftsmanship and genuine service.

“I wanted to bring something to the market where I was comfortable and felt good about what I had to offer,” he explains. “For me, that was the best high-quality shutters and blinds that I could find paired with what I call ‘radical service’.”

With a smile he admits that, “people are kind of funny with that word radical,” but Sorrento is built on the idea that providing excellent service is radical in our current environment, where downsizing and cost cutting tends to affect the customer experience.

“It’s actually hard to find good service. And I believe good service starts with listening.”

After communicating their vision, Kane assists people through the process to achieve it, helping them with things like colour selection and material of the shutters.

“We do guide them because most people just know they love shutters. They’ve seen shutters in their friend’s home or in a neighbour’s home and they know that they’ve loved the look, so we help them navigate all the options,” he says. “The process is clear and friendly and designed to keep clients in the loop so that they have a clear idea of exactly what’s on offer and exactly what they’re buying. By the time we’ve left, you will know exactly what we can offer you and you will know exactly what it will cost.”

You also know that you’ll be getting the highest quality product and craftsmanship. All of their work is bespoke.

“All of our products are custom-made to fit flawlessly. That's part of the elegance of it. Everything just fits beautifully. It’s designed to get that perfect end result.”

But shutters offer more than a striking elegance. They open up spaces, improve comfort, and don’t take up all the wall space, unlike curtains, with Kane saying that “they make a room feel larger, and create that luxury designer effect.”

There are also the remarkable insulation benefits and reduction of condensation, with Kane quoting a 50 percent improvement over blinds. It’s a massive difference, and one he says comes up all the time in the company’s client feedback. This impact is something he’s also noticed in his own home.

“The first thing we did was put shutters in because it was a great way of making the house look a lot smarter instantly. We were going to get double-glazing, but we thought we'd see how it goes with the shutters first. And boy... we will double-glaze the house one day, but that's gone way down the list now.”

Even the name speaks to the thought and care that Kane brings, with Sorrento Shutters being chosen because it sounded timeless and memorable, which matches his view of shutters.

“It had a nice ring to it,” he says, noting that durability and elegance were the qualities he wanted people to associate with the brand from the very first word.

After almost a decade in the game, Kane says he finds the work immensely satisfying.

“I love going into people’s homes, meeting new people and helping them bring their vision to life,” he smiles. “But it’s easy to feel that way when you’re looking after your customers and they love your work.”

SORRENTOSHUTTERS.CO.NZ

Two paths, one purpose

How one Tauranga school is helping students thrive in their own way.

PHOTO ALAN GIBSON

ACG students Carl Huppmann and Ruby Jones.

There’s a saying that excellence doesn’t come in one shape. At ACG Tauranga, it’s nurtured in many forms. Just ask Ruby Jones and Carl Huppmann. From early mornings in the pool to international academic accolades, the two senior students have carved very different paths, and yet, their journeys are rooted in the same thing: a fiercely supportive school environment.

For Ruby, sport was always in the picture, having been a competitive swimmer since childhood. But it was ACG that introduced her to the team side of things.

“I wasn’t into netball at all before coming here,” she admits. “But we were such a small school back then, they needed more players. I gave it a go and ended up loving it.”

Today, she juggles netball, volleyball and art, along with her school work, and leads by example.

“Leadership for me is about including everyone. Making sure people feel seen, like they belong.”

Whether it’s younger students running up to say hello or teammates bonding during games, her influence is felt widely. But she’s also candid about her journey not always being smooth.

“I’ve never been an overachiever,” she says. “When I started here, I struggled, especially with the academics. I had to learn how to manage my time, ask for help and actually study.”

She speaks openly about the pressure of juggling schoolwork, training and her creative passions. “I put a lot of time into art. It’s something I’m really proud of.”

Carl’s story is slightly different. A self-proclaimed non- athlete when he first moved from Germany, he found his stride at ACG through the freedom to explore.

“I wasn’t into sport until I came here, but we had PE all the time, and I just gave things a try. One day I walked into the sports office and asked if I could join the hockey team and that was how I got started.”

Since then, Carl’s achievements have soared, topping the world in IGCSE PE and mentoring students through coaching and leadership roles. But he’s quick to credit the culture around him.

“Here, every teacher knows your name. They know how to help you grow.”

That close-knit feel is something both students agree on. Teachers are accessible and students are encouraged to take risks, whether in sport, the arts or academics. “It’s a school that doesn’t box you in,” says Ruby. “They support your passions, whatever they are.”

And for students just starting their ACG journey? “Don’t stress the small stuff,” Ruby says with a smile. “You’re here to learn, and everyone’s got your back.” Carl agrees: “Take every opportunity, because in a place like this, they’re everywhere.”

TAURANGA.ACGEDU.COM

Echoes of the giants

Moa bones, eagle claws and ancient wonders are sparking young minds in the Bay.

WORDS JO-MARIE BAKER

Photos courtesy of the Tauranga Museum collection.

Peter Jackson’s Jurassic Park-like plan to resurrect the moa is still a long way from reality but Tauranga students can literally get their hands on the giant bird’s bones, a replica moa egg and even a life- size Haast’s Eagle claw right now.

The objects are among the most popular items in Tauranga Museum’s Hands On Collection available for local teachers to borrow, free of charge.

“We have a set of real moa bones that were found in Te Puke and they’re some of our most popular objects,” explains museum educator Megan Hoskin. “We have 14 bones in all – three huge leg bones, ribs and vertebrae. It’s incredible that children can have these in their classroom and are allowed to handle them.”

The recent addition of a replica Haast's Eagle claw (which was big and powerful enough to kill an adult moa) is also grabbing attention. “The Haast’s Eagle is something children just have an innate curiosity about. We have roughly 250 objects in our education collection that teachers can borrow. It gives a zing to a classroom and sparks excitement, enthusiasm and curiosity. If a class is learning about space, for example, we have meteorites that are four and a half billion years old. Allowing children to hold objects and pass them around is a great way to hook them into a topic.”

The collection is available to schools within Tauranga City Council’s boundary. Teachers simply book objects online and Tauranga Museum will deliver and collect them. “It could not be an easier service for busy teachers.”

Megan, a former primary school teacher, is also available to run classroom lessons on topics such as The Elms, the Battle of Pukehinahina Gate Pa, the Rena disaster, kiwi, penguins and Tauranga-related aspects of World War One. She believes it’s more important than ever to put physical objects in our children’s hands to help balance learning off digital screens.

While two generations of children have grown up without a museum in Tauranga, the wait is almost over. The city’s new museum will open in 2028 and will feature two purpose-built education spaces along with a Discovery Centre that will focus on Tauranga’s marine environment. “It’s going to be all about the ocean, islands and marine life we have here in Tauranga, so very much a science and environmental Discovery Centre. It will be a very exciting, interactive play space.”

HANDSONTAURANGA.CO.NZ

Style and space

Landmark Homes doubles the potential with a modern duplex design.

WORDS Nicky Adams | PHOTOS Amanda Aitken

If you mention the horse paddock on Ngatai Road, in Otūmoetai Tauranga, most locals will know exactly where you’re talking about. Not many will have driven past at some stage without gazing across the lush field at the stunning view over to the Mount and harbour, and wondered how exactly you go about getting a little piece of this paradise. Just along from here, sharing this jaw-dropping view, is the brand-new Landmark Homes showhome.

With the water glistening as a backdrop, the clean, modern architectural style of the duplex property is eye-catching. At first glance it looks like a single dwelling, however on closer inspection it becomes clear it’s two homes. With an increase in demand for lower maintenance, easy-care living, New Zealand is quickly embracing the benefits a smaller section and a two-level design can offer. Carly Stewart, Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty franchise holder, explains the backstory behind the latest showhome.

“The location was prime real estate with an existing house on it, so essentially the project was a Remove and Rebuild. We loved the idea of a duplex, which, with a fully separate lower floor translates well to lots of different lifestyles. It can be used for anything from guest accommodation to housing extended family, to an Airbnb, which makes it well suited for someone looking for additional income. This obviously in turn increases the value of the property.”

In terms of the site itself, Carly points out: “With sourcing land getting trickier in key areas, we’re seeing more people looking at Remove and Rebuild as an option.”

From the outside the home is undoubtedly sleek; its look is one Carly describes as “contemporary but with the true Landmark Homes bones.” The cladding is pivotal to the appeal, combining an exciting mix of Hinuera stone, timber and brick. Adding a layer of individuality is the way the materials have been used – the feature timber is a Millboard from Forté, a brand known for its high-quality surfaces. In this case used as exterior cladding, it brings not just a unique, authentic timber grain, but – those magic words any homeowner loves to hear – the benefit of low maintenance. Equally aesthetically adventurous is the Premier brick; in this instance the blocks have been deliberately laid back-to-front to achieve a specific texture and colourway. This look has proved popular, and the suppliers now manufacture a Vintage range brick that replicates this exact texture. The overlaid vertical black screening slatting gives a sharp visual, as well as adding a layer of privacy to the interior.

Entering the home the immediate feel is light, bright and coastal. High ceilings and doors are a signature Landmark Homes feature, however there are elements that elevate this showhome to another level altogether. With a ground floor that could just as easily be used as part of the house or entirely separate from the main property, there is a fully equipped laundry, bathroom, lounge and two bedrooms. A kitchenette has been factored in, and access to this floor can be gained independently from the primary dwelling. A beautifully landscaped garden has been perfectly manicured by respected local designer Michelle McDonnell; the result is a juxtaposition of lush vibrant coloured foliage against the warm natural textures of this contemporary build.

All two-storey Landmark Homes either feature a lift or allow a shaft for retrofitting. This is no ordinary lift, step inside and the eyes are drawn to the beautiful walls, papered in a textured wallpaper that holds a subtle hint of metallic, adding that immediate element of luxe. The upper floor of the home combines a practical streamlined layout, with clever interior design features. From the floating wooden entertainment shelf to the unique concrete tiles used to create a distinctive kitchen island, the purposeful and decorative aspects unfold room by room. Attention to detail is obvious, from the tiles to the feature lighting; comfort is key, your feet sink into the softest Okiwi Bay cut pile twist carpet, while eyes are simultaneously drawn to the floor to ceiling windows, clad in beautiful quality white linen curtains. The neutral tones of the decor are the perfect foil to the dramatic view from the large deck, which, with its electric Louvretec roof will allow for maximum al fresco indoor/outdoor living and year-round use.

The design and layout without doubt work perfectly for clients of a spread of ages and stages. Two bedrooms downstairs along with large master and ensuite on the first floor allow for multiple living combinations from couples to families. Landmark Homes prides itself on attention to the little things as well as the construction. “Everything is well thought out for longevity. We factor in the client’s wants and needs when it comes to everything from sustainability to environmentally friendly aspects. There is extra time, care, money and details that all combine to make the end product feel more solid. You can see and feel the quality.”

Carly is clearly excited about the direction that the build has taken into the realm of premium duplex. She has seen, she mentions, more and more instances of people looking for innovative solutions to land or financial squeeze. This type of building, she believes, presents a very attractive option; with the solid build and premium acoustic properties ensuring optimum soundproofing, it really does become ‘two homes, one vision of luxury’.

A key service Landmark Homes provides is a no obligation meeting, either at the new showhome, the Tauriko office, the satellite office at Waihi Beach, or on site (even pre-land purchase), where it’s possible for Landmark to give an idea of feasibility. The tight team of trusted staff that her and husband Logan operate within is one that works together to ensure every aspect of the plan and build process is an exciting journey. In addition to the team itself there are the regular contractors who share the exacting standards that Carly and Logan set. The high finish is something that Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty absolutely stands by; in fact, Carly mentions, only half-jokingly, as she runs her fingers over the tile finish to check the grouting: “I’m borderline OCD!” A characteristic that might be considered a real asset when you’re trusted with the quality control of your client’s dream home.

LANDMARKHOMES.CO.NZ

Good eggs

High in the Kaimai Ranges, a small farm puts chickens first, and lets the eggs speak for themselves.

Photos Alan Gibson

It’s a riddle as old as time and one that has left the greatest minds in history scratching their heads. But ask Karlene McGirr what came first, the chicken or the egg, and her answer is immediate.

“The chicken has to come first because that's our priority,” she smiles. “If you look after the chicken, you get a good egg.”

This philosophy drives Kaimai Eggs, the family-owned egg farm situated in the tranquil Kaimai Ranges that was started by Karlene's parents, Otto and Vicki McGirr, in 2011. Now Karlene and husband Jim are continuing to grow the family business, along with all Otto and Vicki's daughters, who are involved in aspects of the farm. The health and well-being of their chickens is something that has been paramount to the whole family since the beginning. 

Karlene and Jim Brown.

“Dad's been asked ‘What makes a good egg?’ a few times over the years, and it’s simple: a good chicken makes a good egg,” Karlene explains. “There’s no other way around it.”

“You've got to have a healthy, well-fed, well-watered chicken in a good environment with good people looking after it and all the other stuff kind of just happens,” Jim adds. “Which makes sense. Of course, a happy bird is going to produce better eggs.”

Their farm, which produces free-range and barn eggs, is situated in the tranquil Kaimai Ranges, where the chooks enjoy a view of the hills that’s so stunning it’s printed on the egg carton. But spectacular views aren’t the only thing that sets Kamai Eggs apart. 

Otto McGirr.

Unlike most egg producers, they look after their whole supply chain, getting baby chicks at just one day old and rearing them right up until they’re ready to begin laying eggs. From there, they’ll be moved into one of the farm’s laying sheds, where they’ll be able to run free, indoors and out, with the flock. The eggs that are produced are then packed by hand on the farm before going onto their “little truck” that leaves every morning, to deliver them fresh to supermarkets and cafés around the region. Their team even stacks the supermarket shelves themselves to ensure there’s no accidental breakage that goes unnoticed and could leave a bad taste in a consumer’s mouth.

“We’re only as good as the last carton that goes out. We believe, and it’s
true, that every carton is an individual customer,” Jim says, explaining why in this age of automation they remain hands-on. “If you have a bad experience with our eggs, you're not going to want to buy them again.”

The family don’t just talk the talk, they also walk the walk, out on the farm each morning checking on their chickens and jumping on the line to pack eggs. 

“We have a great team who supports making this happen seven days a week,” Jim says, proudly.

Keeping the birds happy and healthy is a constant challenge, especially with free-range farming. The trick is finding the balance between quality of living for the bird versus the cost, so an affordable product is waiting on supermarket shelves.

“We’ve invested in some really high-tech monitoring systems for the animals and for people to spend time with the animals,” Karlene says. “And because we rear our own birds, we get to control those that are incoming. Birds never leave the farm. They come in at one day old, and they stay on the farm.”

“It's a low-stress environment,” Jim says. “Because we're not moving the chicken far. It just goes from that shed there when they’re chicks to that shed there when they’re ready to lay. You see in other animals, when they move long distances, they come under a lot of stress.”

The farm has philosophically and financially invested in ensuring their chickens' lives are as stress-free as possible. The chickens live in a big shed where they have 24/7 access to a grassy paddock. 

“They can come and go as they please,” Jim says. “But typically they hang around the shed in the mornings.”

The birds are early risers, up at 4am for breakfast, before they start laying eggs at 5am. Around 8am is when the animal welfare team comes in to do their checks and make sure everything is hunky dory, and by 9am, the chooks' work is done for the day and they head outside to enjoy their day.

“The chickens are awake for 16 hours a day. And they get up to stuff,” Karlene says. “They break a lot, scratching and pecking and tapping away.”

“It can be chicken anarchy,” Jim laughs.

Rounding them up in the evening and herding them back into the shed before dark is a surprisingly easy task.

“They're scared of the dark, so they all come in willingly at night,” Jim laughs. “It's like a switch. All of a sudden, they all just start running for home. It's bloody amazing! They all come in, eat and roost, and hopefully give us an egg the next morning.”

Kaimai Eggs' slogan is ‘Your Local Farm’ and that’s something they take to heart. They support local schools in the area, as well as Bay of Plenty Rugby and local food banks and charities. 

“We take our social responsibility very seriously,” Jim says. “It's our job to support quite a few organisations.”

“Words are cheap. We want to walk the walk,” Karlene says. “Dad is a big pusher of that, especially with supporting kids in sports and the local schools. It's not optional, it's just what we do. It's all good to go out there and tell everyone that we're local, but you’ve also got to put your money where your mouth is and support local organisations.”

“It's cool,” Jim smiles. “You get to meet quite a few local people doing good stuff in the community. It's rewarding to help organisations in the community. It makes you feel good.”

There’s only one last question for the egg farmers, and it could be the hardest of the lot; how do they like their eggs?

“That's the big question for the egg producers,” Jim laughs. “We've got loads in the shed and we always forget to take them home!”

“And we only get to take the ones that aren’t perfect,” Karlene adds. 

“To be honest, it's quite nice to come to the cafés that use our eggs and get them to cook them for us,” Jim smiles, before Karlene jokes, “We're terrible at cooking them!”

KAIMAIEGGS.CO.NZ

Progressive positioning

Coombes Johnston welcomes customers into a new era.

words NICKY ADAMS | photos JAHL MARSHALL

As Coombes Johnston marks 30 years representing the BMW brand in Tauranga, the timing feels fitting for a major transformation. The dealership has just completed a major showroom upgrade, designed to modernise not just the look, but the experience of buying a vehicle. The result is a space that feels less like a traditional showroom and more like an extension of the brand’s identity.

The second location in New Zealand to have undergone the international ‘Retail.Next’ initiative, the new showroom is overarchingly aspirational while reflecting the brand’s emphasis on customer centricity. “We have always had outstanding customer service,” says manager Kevin Pead. “We always had the DNA for that. Now we’ve lifted up the environment to match the level of service that we’ve been offering to our customers in the Bay of Plenty for 30 years.”

BMW has an undisputed reputation as a premium European luxury brand. The freshly renovated showroom, with its stylish interior and multi-functional spaces, is testament to this positioning. As I walk through the doors, the receptionist beams a sunny smile, radiating warmth on a wet winter’s day. Leading me to the inviting seated area, fresh coffee on the table, the feeling is less showroom and more lounge area. Glancing around I notice the stunning feature lights. These, Kevin explains, he initially thought may be overkill, but when they were installed, all was revealed. Without doubt purposeful, the pendants glisten over the seated area where they serve to create a cosy, intimate environment; meanwhile my eyes are drawn to the M wall where a feature white and red longline ceiling element is suspended over the latest highperformance luxury M3 model, the light showcasing the sleek contours of this beautiful vehicle.

The seating, while perfect for meetings, faces a screen which boasts the very latest in technology. The EVE – Emotional Virtual Experience – is an immersive experience that allows customers to digitally design and watch as their dream car comes to life. Even the more old-school customers are on board with this technology, as it helps to bring a real sense of confidence to decision making. “There are so many different makes and models we can’t stock all of them, so if someone wants to bespoke a car this allows them to see what the finished product would look like from the comfort of a lounge type environment.”

The brand concept behind the Retail.Next upgrade is, says Kevin, “to create a warm, embracing, relaxed atmosphere.” The days of the hard sell are long gone. Today’s experience of looking for a new car involves a more consultative approach. BMW considers itself a market leader in more than just its innovative car design and production. After all, Kevin points out, “BMW doesn’t follow, it sets the standard”. The ‘shop floor’ is obviously a part of this. From the moment someone arrives, “You want them to feel as though they want to buy a car; and whether it’s the latest and greatest or it’s an older model, the level of service is the same.” The split for new versus used vehicles is roughly fifty-fifty, but rule of thumb is that “used car buyers will one day become new car buyers.” I question why this is, and Kevin looks amused. “It’s a natural progression – it’s a great audition, isn’t it!”

Car enthusiasts will already be aware that BMW is considered the ultimate driving machine, and Kevin is excited about what’s coming, with product launches for 2025 set to defy expectations further – what’s on the horizon is “younger, fresher, more exciting; and our technology advances with each new model.”

We circle back to the fact that the customer journey is a key focus here at Coombes Johnston. This explains how, for two years running, BMW Tauranga were awarded Excellence in Customer Service nationally from BMW New Zealand. Kevin firmly believes that you have one shot at making a first impression. “The people that come have generally done their homework and are making a comparison. We are here to identify their needs and make sure they find the right vehicle.” Of course, he continues, “people want more from buying a car – they want, and deserve, a premium five-star experience.”

The service is wrapped up in so much more than excellent product knowledge. When dealing with uber high-tech models, to help bring a purchaser up to speed with the technology can often, Kevin says, involve up to five post-sale sessions. His customer handover includes happily giving his mobile number to each client as part of the aftercare. This is indicative of the way these relationships are cultivated and valued. The ability to form firm relationships is something, Kevin says, that is lost when people shop further afield. There is often a belief that if you go to a bigger city, you’ll get a better deal – not the case, Kevin assures me. “As soon as you’re out of the door, you’re just another number – here you will always be a valued customer.” And one which will be looked after as part of the Coombes Johnston family.

The team of 13 share the same passion – Kevin has been with BMW for 10 years, and Simon, the service manager is soon to celebrate 20 years with the company. Longevity relates not just to staff relations but also to customers, with, says Kevin, many of their customers holding longstanding relations. Indeed, when I speak to owner Richard Johnston, he tells me anecdotally that he has been selling to one customer since 1987, starting the relationship when he was a junior salesman. The new look of the premises, he believes, does justice to the BMW brand. “Over the years the showroom has evolved, but this is a massive change – a quantum leap to something truly spectacular for 2025.”

As for being a BMW ambassador, Richard is clearly as passionate as ever about the Group. “They strive for excellence, and they measure us on excellence. There is an understanding at all levels of our team that the execution is at a very high level. The design, innovation, BMW’s ability to pivot quickly – there’s a very strong focus on drivability and the passion and emotional experience that comes with being behind the wheel of one of these cars. That in itself, in my opinion, sets us apart – and as a small family run business it’s a real privilege to represent the brand.”

COOMBESJOHNSTONBMWTAURANGA.CO.NZ

A lasting legacy: 20 YEARS OF UNO

Two decades strong, UNO has been the Bay's voice, shining a light on the best of the region’s creatives, business minds, leaders, philanthropists and influencers. Now, after 20 years, it’s time for UNO to celebrate its own influence. Hayley Barnett sits down with the publication’s owners and two previous publishers to discuss how the magazine came to be, and where it’s headed.

photo ALAN GIBSON

The UNO team from left: Nicky Adams, Michele Griffin, Rebecca Meyer, Hayley Barnett and Stephanie Taylor.

As the media landscape continues to transform both here in Aotearoa and around the world, celebrating 20 years as a regional print publication seems almost unbelievable.

Looking back on two decades of storytelling, art and community, for the team at UNO, with all their years of experience in magazines, newspapers and radio, it’s obvious why this unique publication has gone the distance. Having always focused on positive stories of inspirational locals, there has been and always will be a need for connection.

Part of its success is testament to founder Andy Martin’s vision. Casting his mind back 20 years ago, Andy recalls jumping in head first.

“To be honest, I had no idea what I was doing,” he laughs.

“I was winging it from the get-go.”

More a risk-taking entrepreneur than media mogul, Andy had spent much of his career in sales and marketing, in industries from farming to oil. It was when he started up a business in building project management that he delved into media, launching a magazine called The Homepage.

“I always liked Urbis, a consumer homes magazine, and wanted to do something big scale like that, which drew me to the idea of starting a quality regional magazine,” explains Andy. “I probably wouldn’t have done it unless my father had retired at that stage.”

Charles Martin was a sports broadcaster, and wrote for publications like The Listener, as well as scripts for Close to Home, a TV series in the ’70s and ’80s.

“Dad became the editor and I did the sales, and we cobbled it together from there,” says Andy.

The main idea, he adds, was to celebrate the local people in the region.

“Dad’s big thing was all about not being topical,” he says. “The beauty of it was that you could still pick one up years later and it’s still relevant. That was quite important.”

When Charles sadly passed away 10 years ago, Andy felt his own passion for publishing fading with him. That, he said, and he’d “gone too big too soon”. Around that time he’d started printing a Waikato version and opened an office in Wellington, with the intention to publish a magazine for the city.

“Wellington wasn’t a good move,” he admits. The project collapsed shortly after it started and Andy decided to sell the entire brand instead.

From there, Jenny Rudd and Mat Tomlinson picked up UNO and, in Andy’s words, gave it a good “shake up”.

“It needed some new energy and that’s exactly what Jenny had – good energy.”

Over the next six years, UNO transformed in style and tone, taking on more of a business bent, something Jenny was passionate about.

“We attracted some amazing talent to join us, and added two more titles to our fold,” tells Jenny. “It was a magical six years!”

When the current publishers, Michele Griffin and Rebecca Meyer, came on the scene, they brought with them over 35 years of media sales experience, having been at the Bay of Plenty Times (now under the NZME umbrella) for much of their working lives. For Michele, it was her first job out of high school.

The pair had watched UNO evolve over the years and had a vision to bring it back similar to its original format, with more story telling, while continuing to shine a light on the incredible breadth of creative talent the region has to offer.

For Michele and Rebecca, it was an obvious fit.

“We saw UNO as this sophisticated, beautiful brand,” explains Rebecca. “We always admired it, and because we had clients at NZME who respected the magazine, we had an understanding of how the community viewed it.”

Neither see print disappearing any time soon, and Andy agrees. “People spend so much time on their phones these days,” he says. “To sit down and pick up a hard copy is a luxury. There will definitely always be a place for it.”

When asked about where they see UNO headed in the future, there’s no talk of moving fully online or cutting back on print quality.

“We’re lucky this region is growing,” says Michele. “One piece of advice that has always stuck with me was, ‘Stick to your knitting’. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. We’re always listening to what the market wants, evolving where it matters – like maintaining a strong online and social media presence – but at our core, the magazine remains the heart of what we do.”

Adds Rebecca: “Ultimately, people will read it if it looks good and delivers quality content that is relevant to them.

Get that right, and everything else will follow.”

Gold standard

Singer-songwriter Ayla Gold recently broke into the Bay’s indie music scene with her first EP Nuance. Her vintage rock style has been influenced by an eclectic mix of artists over the years. Here, she tells UNO about her artistic process and where she sees Tauranga’s music scene headed in the future.

Twenty-five-year-old acoustic engineer Ayla Gold was raised listening to everything from Hayley Westenra to Evermore. Kiwi music was always being played on Dad’s stereo or on the family car’s CD player – tapes in her pre-school years. And it’s still Kiwi artists who are her biggest inspiration. 

UNO: How did you get into music?
Ayla: I started piano and guitar lessons in primary school and loved to sing along to anything that was playing, and still do. You will often catch
me singing along or harmonising to whatever’s playing in the supermarket. The teachers I had right through school played a huge part in encouraging me to get up and sing on stage. The support from my high school music teacher, Matt Bodman at Ōtūmoetai College, was huge. He would get me involved with school assembly performances, songwriting competitions, Smoke-free Rockquest, and just playing and writing well in general. We’re still in contact today and he’s always quick to give great feedback on my releases.

How would you describe your music?
My vocals are always quite strong as I feel it’s the way I can truly express myself. I believe that what you listen to is what your own music becomes, so I would say my music is indie singer/songwriter, if I were to put it in a box. Hamish Berkers from Mish Studio based in Kirikiriroa is always enthusiastic when we are in the studio recording, as is my video director and producer Finn Lloyd (Mount Maunganui). Both of these lads are legends in their fields and push me to make my music and visuals the best it can be while keeping all my own flair.

What and who inspires you musically?
I love artists who aren’t afraid to be themselves and be genuine and vulnerable in their lyrics. This inspires me to write the way that I do. In terms of sound, I mostly listen to alternate/indie rock and more solo artists than bands. I love lots of washy guitar and drums and finger-picking style electric. I feel most inspired when my emotions or environments feel intense, good or bad. I’m definitely someone who can see through the pain in things and enjoy the creativity of art that flows when things are tough for someone, or how the skill of the artist can portray this. In terms of specific artists, this is always changing as I’m always discovering new music. I’m also someone who loves to be outside – open spaces help me to develop the ideas that come to mind.

In the last few years, my biggest influences have been Molly Payton, Julia Jacklyn, The Beths, Angie McMahon and Sam Fender. Again, these artists are not afraid to put their lyrics and sound into a raw form that transports you straight into their shoes, or you find their lyrics apply to some struggle of your own. A common theme in music I like is the greater hope that an artist can talk about, or almost talk you through, a form of empathising and knowing that there is light at the end of the tunnel. They show you’re not the only one who has gone through whatever it is you are experiencing.

What instruments do you play and do you write your own lyrics?
I play rhythm electric and acoustic guitar as well as piano. I write all my own lyrics. All through school I wasn’t much of a reader so I found it hard to write songs. It wasn’t until late high school that my writing started and during my engineering degree, I got right into reading which took my writing to a whole new level. My notes app on my phone is often growing with lyrics or lines that pop into my head in everyday situations. I’ve actually found catching the bus is a great place to write for me.

How do you find the Bay music scene? How do you see it developing in the coming years?
The scene here is growing and there are a few people that have really invested in their music. The Jam Factory in the historic village and Palace Tavern at the Mount have been great to help support this. I would love to see more small-scale gig venues similar to what you find on Karangahape Road in Auckland, as it would really help to support up-and-coming artists and just bring more of a scene here. We need more of a culture that people can hook into, knowing there is always something on a particular night. I think Tauranga schools have a great arts scene, as well as churches, which are often the catalyst for producing great musicians.

What are your plans for the future?
I want to release more regularly and do a tour of New Zealand at some stage. I’ve had a job in acoustic engineering for three months now with Marshall Day Acoustics. Many of us are musicians, which encourages me to keep at my music and be inspired and supported. I love playing and recording with friends, and I’m excited to meet more people through my music, to see where it takes me. All the creative outlets involved have a chance to develop their skills through me bringing my projects to them and vice versa. 

 aylagoldmusic