DRIVING CHANGE

Ebbett is driving into the future with an unusual new high-profile location. It’s a first for the family-owned car dealership, and one which could change the way cars are sold here in New Zealand.

We usually head to the mall for a spot of shopping, a visit to the Food Court or to catch the latest blockbuster movie. But how about picking out your new car before popping in to browse the latest fashions or meeting your friends for coffee?

In Hamilton, you can now do exactly that as the Waikato’s longstanding, family-owned car business Ebbett has opened a new dealership at popular shopping spot, The Base.

“Opening a dealership at a shopping mall is not something we've done before,” store manager Ben van den Engel enthuses. “It’s a whole new concept. It’s exciting and scary at the same time.”

It’s a bold and innovative venture for Ebbett Group, which has long been recognised for its commitment to customer service and the local communities that are home to its dealerships.

Instead of the traditional car yard, Ebbett The Base offers a premium and high-end experience.

“It’s less intimidating for people,” Ben says. “You're not going to this big, shiny showroom with thousands of cars and lots of salespeople waiting to pounce. It’s more intimate and more approachable.”

While a mall-based dealership is a new concept in Aotearoa, Ebbett director Richard van den Engel explains that while the high-profile location attracts foot traffic, the customer experience must remain seamless.

To that end, shoppers can explore vehicles in a premium, transparent environment with glass walls, couch seating and refreshments. For anyone wanting an immediate test drive, the demo vehicles are parked right outside the door. “It’s got the best of both worlds,” Richard smiles.

While it may look and operate differently from traditional car dealerships, all the expected aspects of the buying process can be handled in-store. Trade ins are appraised immediately, financing and insurance are handled in-house and mechanical services are coordinated with Ebbett’s workshop, conveniently located only a minute’s drive away. Simply drop your car off at the mall and they’ll handle the rest.

And unlike traditional dealerships, where customers encounter multiple staff members for sales, finance and aftercare, Ebbett takes a more personal approach.

“You’re dealing with the same person for all of those experiences all the way through,” Ben says. “It’s much more personal. And what Ebbett is all about.”

Another exciting development for Ebbett is the addition of the luxurious and technologically cutting-edge brands Zeekr and Geely range to their stock line-up.

“Zeekr is a premium Chinese brand that is looking to compete with Audi, Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes,” Ben says. “It’s got all the gizmos and fit and finish that you’d expect of a European car.”

When you consider Zeekr’s heritage, this isn’t surprising. The EV brand is part of the larger Geely family, the ninth largest seller of motor vehicles in the world. Its upmarket siblings include the elite sports car manufacturer Lotus, the European luxury brand Volvo and performance brand Polestar.

Ben explains that the Zeekr range consists of premium, sporty, cutting-edge vehicles, while the Geely range offers premium tech at a price point that's accessible to everyday Kiwis.

“Geely and Zeekr might be new brands in New Zealand, but they’re not small players,” he says. “Chinese manufacturers are often at the forefront of technology and innovation, and both of these brands deliver premium comfort, cutting-edge features, and competitive performance. I had a customer the other day get out of a Porsche Macan to test drive the Geely Starray, and he was blown away with how well it drove and the comfort and finish on the interior.”

Like the store itself, these two flagship brands challenge traditional market expectations. Zeekr, for example, offers high-performance vehicles that rival established European models. Their 7X model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, delivering thrilling performance without compromising on comfort.

The community response to Ebbett’s new shopping mall location has been enthusiastic, with shoppers embracing the new format, testing vehicles, engaging with staff and sharing their impressions.

For both Ben and Richard, the most rewarding aspect has been the alignment of their values with daily operations.

“We try to do things differently at Ebbett. Our values are integrity, care, excellence and respect. And we actually strive to live that each and every day,” Ben says. “We want to give you such a great experience that you come back to buy a second car and tell your friends and family. Our vision is customers for life. That culture permeates through everything we do. It’s a buzz to be a part of.”

EBBETT.CO.NZ/DEALERSHIP/EBBETT-THE-BASE

SUMMER LOVING

This season is awash with inspiration.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

MAEVARII TEACUP SHIRT, $259, GEORGEEDWARD.CO.NZ

ELEVATE YOUR OFF DUTY

If you’ve been thinking a white skirt could be key to your summer wardrobe, then you could be right. Forget concerns about spills and stains, pick a robust, easily washable fabric and you’ll be fine. For a ‘I’ve just stepped off my private yacht’ vibe, nothing beats head-to-toe light shades, while a coastal colour palette (blues, whites, navy) will tie in nicely to the nautical trend. A Breton stripe is always a key look in summer and can be easily incorporated into day-to-day wear. Another staple would be a trusty summer shirt. There’s always plenty of applause for a simple pale coloured cotton or linen shirt — and a well-cut white shirt is worth a thousand cheap imitations. However, don’t pass over a print, if you feel too much colour or pattern close to your face doesn’t work for you, then unbutton further. As luck would have it, the unbuttoned shirt is actually a micro trend of its own, with either a peep of f lesh, a flash of bra or camisole underneath.

COTTON MIDI DRESS, $268, SOPHIESTORE.CO.NZ

PERSONAL PREFERENCE

Pink has become a mainstay — pick your shade or flit between; with the more modern interpretation of this as a power palette the girly connotation has finally lifted. Summer is definitely the season to rock accessories, and finding a hat that suits you, and your needs is crucial. Handbags are being personalised with everything from silk scarves to charms. Often treated as pieces of wearable art, a statement bag really can reflect the personality of its owner, whether through colour, shape or points of difference such as fringing, studs, buckles, tassels or woven leather.

MUSE SKIRT, $309, NZ.KOWTOWCLOTHING.COM

TRENDING NOW

Most wanted this season.

BOYFRIEND SHIRT, $379, BIAS CUT PANTS, $469, SILKLAUNDRY.COM.AU

LOCK IN YOUR LOOK

Breathe a sigh of relief — when it comes to high fashion aficionados have called 2025 ‘a summer without trends’. What this means is, unlike other recent years where everyone has gone crazy for ‘Barbiecore’ (bubblegum pink) or mob wife (bling), there’s no defining trend, and with that, greater fashion flexibility. So, while lots of styles are swirling around, there’s no pressure to buy into a narrowed down specific. Of course there are still predominant looks, one of which would be polka dots, which has come forward as the must-have pattern of the season — big spots, little spots and everything in-between. Translating well to silky fabrics, a polka dot on a slinky slip skirt, paired with a black top and black kitten heels is considered a retro-style classic.

FRILL LAYER DRESS, $269, STORMONLINE.COM

PRETTY BUT PRACTICAL

In a fashion twist, straight from the catwalks to the high street for this season are two pieces that most people would consider basics. None other than the good old tank top, and the no-nonsense (but ultimately elevated) flip flop. The message is loud and clear — it’s quality over bells and whistles. If you prefer a shaped silhouette with definition to the waist, then consider a statement belt. Stealth creeping into the hot looks, belts are only set to get bigger with a revival of the early 2000s’ love of designer brand logo belts. If your budget or conscience won’t stretch to designer, then there’s a great selection of hardware to be found locally. This year you’d need to have been in fashion hinterland — or not laid eyes on a teenager — to notice that ultra-high hemlines are everywhere. So micro they may bring blushes to the cheeks. While this is not a trend that pairs well with varicose veins, a short skirt is certainly not off limits for the more mature. Aesthetically there’s a wonderfully maximalist feel to lots of the looks that we’ll see over summer, like swathes of fabric, reams of tulle, draping, romantic ruffles and blouses with puff shoulders. Bigger feels fun, and that’s what summer is all about.

SMOCKED MINI SKIRT, $229.99, SCOTCH-SODA.CO.NZ

EVENT PLANNING

Match your outfit to your mood board.

Summer is the ultimate event season, from top-tier dress code themes, such as a wedding or the races, to the usual round of barbecues and family gatherings.

Pairing an outfit to an occasion can be tricky and many will be beset with angst, weighing up the desire to break out the finery with the fear of turning up either overdressed or underdressed.

And this isn’t just a female thing. Most women will be familiar with the last minute yell of ‘Am I ok in shorts?’ or ‘Do I need to wear a shirt? What? You really want me to put on a tie?!’

So, how do you gauge your outfit to hit the bullseye? First and foremost, no matter what the occasion, be guided by your own personal style and level of comfort. Secondly, and most importantly, be confident. An outing is an opportunity to have fun with your wardrobe; there’s sure to be something shoved to the back that you’ve been dying to showcase. This is the season to flex your sartorial muscles among friends.

A-LIST EVENT

Obviously if there’s a dress code then you need to adhere to it. A wedding guest will aim to stick to the usual rules; no head-to toe white/cream/champagne shades and keep cut-outs and cleavage spills to a minimum.

A similar train of thought would apply to a hosted event at the races, with rule of thumb dictating a dress or pants worn below the knee in length and a general level of modesty. While there are a few ‘no’s’, there are lots of ‘yes’s’! Tailored dresses, feather trims, pencil skirts, fit-n-flare styles, jumpsuits — the options are endless.

Men can break out the jackets, linen suits; even ties — or alternatively bring style and savvy with a feature shirt. Banish the sneakers and put the best foot forward by trying dress shoes, boat shoes or open weave loafers.

WORK NIGHT OUT

Now this is your chance to shine, but with parameters. Usually in a workplace there is an unspoken sense of house rules when it comes to staff presentation. The end of-year shebang offers a chance to inject more personality into your outfit.

With that said you are still mixing with colleagues, so while it’s great to get creative, it’s recommended to do this with decorum. No one wants to face their boss on Monday morning knowing she saw your side-boob on Friday night. But you can crack out the sparkles, semi-sheers, slinky dresses, the heels. Keep elegant as your keyword and dress up as much as you want. Even if everyone else turns up in jandals, you can set the precedent for next year.

FAMILY GARDEN PARTY

Whether your preference is bohemian, country cottagecore or minimalist, wide leg pants and a flowing top or a maxi dress will be surefire winners. There’s a relaxed nature to a maxi that translates to any occasion — it tends to be the fabric of the dress and accessories that will be an indication of how dressy the finished look will be. If you opt for a satin then the feel will be smarter, a linen, cotton or crepe give off effortless chic. Prints are another guide to your style inspiration — vintage f lorals say nostalgia, delicate blooms tend to be understated, and a polka dot screams right on trend. A hat is a must; for versatility choose a natural weave, a black boater will elevate or lean into boho with a felt fedora style.

FASHION FORWARD

Keep one eye on what’s to come this autumn.

Louis Vuitton

GO WITH THE FLOW

Lingerie looks continue to be strong to the point where I’ve eyed up my silk nightie and wondered if anyone would really know the difference. The slinky satin slips, lace trim and general boudoir feel may feel flimsy, but are easy to layer up for cooler weather.

Burberry

GIDDY UP

Equestrian influences seem to have cantered onto the catwalks. Polished riding boots, jodhpurs, country-chic checks and knitwear will please lovers of the great outdoors.

Chloe

FACE VALUE

The injectables industry is booming, driven by a desire to take control of ageing. But for many, questions still linger. UNO looks into the world of cosmetic injectables, with three renowned BOP experts.

It wasn’t long ago that cosmetic injectables were whispered about behind closed doors. Today, they’re everywhere, and it’s getting harder to tell if someone is 20 or 65. While the stigma around treatments like Botox and dermal filler is fading, there is still a tonne of confusion and caution about injectables. Does filler really dissolve on its own? And what’s going on with those puffy celebrity cheeks.

To cut through the noise, we spoke with three experts in the Bay of Plenty, including Leanne Cashmore, registered nurse and founder of Cashmore Clinic in Mount Maunganui, Dr Adam Bialostocki, surgeon and founder of Da Vinci Clinic in Tauranga, and Dr AJ Seine, skin specialist at The Skin Centre in Tauranga, to unpack the how, why and what-next of cosmetic injectables.

WHAT ARE INJECTABLES, REALLY?

Cosmetic injectables are medical treatments used to smooth wrinkles, restore facial volume and refine features. The two most common are Botox (and other botulinum toxin brands), which temporarily relax muscles, and dermal f illers, typically made from hyaluronic acid, which restore volume and contour. “People come in thinking Botox and filler are the same thing, but they do completely different things,” says Leanne. “Botox relaxes muscles, so it’s great for dynamic lines, but filler is what you need when volume is lost or lines are etched in.”

AJ explains further: “Think frown lines, forehead and crow’s-feet for anti-wrinkle injections. Dermal fillers restore shape or contour using a soft gel that blends with your natural tissue. Bio-stimulators are newer again; they help your own skin make more collagen over time instead of simply filling space.

WHY ARE THEY SO POPULAR? r Leanne has seen demand grow year after year. “Younger clients are now starting early, often in their 20s or 30s,” she says. “Not to change how they look, but to delay ageing before lines really settle in.” This preventative approach, she explains, is part of a broader shift toward subtle, long-term maintenance rather than quick fixes. Adam agrees that smaller, regular treatments often achieve more natural results than infrequent large-volume corrections. “Smaller top-ups, done regularly, tend to look more subtle,” he says. AJ adds that this shift reflects a cultural change: “People now see injectables less as a makeover and more as maintenance. It’s become a bit like dental care for your face, with small, regular touch-ups rather than big overhauls.” BOTOX OR FILLER? According to Leanne, understanding what each product does is key. “If you’re seeing forehead lines or crow’s feet when you move your face, Botox is the fix,” she explains. “If those lines stay even when your face is relaxed, or your cheeks have hollowed out, that’s when we look at fillers.”

WHAT ABOUT RISKS?

Leanne is quick to remind people that injectables are medical procedures, not beauty treatments. “With Botox, the main risks are mild and temporary,” she says. “If it spreads to the wrong muscle, you might have a droopy eyelid or uneven smile, but it wears off.”

Filler, on the other hand, carries more serious, but still uncommon, risks. Adam points to bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and lumps as possible side effects, with infection or vessel occlusion being rare.

“Blindness is exceedingly rare,” he says, “but this is why experience and technique matter.”

AJ agrees: “Most negative stories come from unqualified injectors or unsafe settings. When performed by trained medical professionals using approved products in a proper clinic, the risks are extremely low.”

AVOIDING THE “PILLOW FACE”

We’ve all seen it. It’s that overfilled look that’s become a meme in itself. So how do skilled injectors avoid this?

“Experience,” says Adam. “It’s about placing product in the correct plane, respecting natural facial proportions, and often doing staged treatments instead of all at once.”

Leanne echoes this with a less-is-more philosophy. “We’re not trying to change your face,” she says. “We’re enhancing what’s already there.”

AJ adds that modern approaches are far more refined than they were a decade ago. “Ten years ago, the focus was on filling lines; now it’s about restoring balance and healthy-looking skin. The goal has shifted from changing to refreshing.”

COMBINING TREATMENTS

Today’s best results often come from combining injectables with skin-improving treatments. Leanne integrates other advanced options like skin boosters.

“We use products like Profhilo, Sunekos and Rejuran for skin quality,” she says. “These aren’t for volume, however. They hydrate and improve texture. Think of them like injectable skincare.”

“We use Botox for lines and to reduce downward pull from muscles, and fillers for shape and volume,” says Adam. “Then energy-based devices like Sofwave or Renuvion help with skin tightening.”

HOW LONG DO RESULTS LAST?

Filler longevity depends on the area, product and individual lifestyle. Adam says lips last around six to nine months, nasolabial folds and tear troughs nine to 12 months, and cheeks, jawline and chin 12 to 24 months.

As for Botox, Leanne notes most people need top-ups every three to four months, though frequency can decrease over time with consistent use.

AJ adds: “Anti-wrinkle injections last around three to four months. Fillers last six to 18 months depending on the product and area treated, and bio-stimulators can last longer again, as they help your skin build its own collagen.”

THINKING OF TRYING IT?

If you’re curious about injectables, every expert agrees on one thing. You need to choose your provider carefully.

“These are medical treatments,” says Leanne. “People think it’s like getting your nails done, but it’s not. You need someone who understands facial anatomy, not just someone who’s watched a YouTube video.”

AJ advises checking qualifications: “Look for a medical doctor or registered nurse working under specialist supervision, ideally with postgraduate training in cosmetic medicine or dermatology.”

Experience and personalisation matter most. “Some clinics use a cookie-cutter approach,” says Leanne. “But every face is different. What works for your friend might not work for you.”

Ultimately, Leanne believes injectables should enhance, not transform. “Start slow,” she advises. “You don’t have to do everything at once. And if you̓re not ready for injectables, start with great skincare and microneedling. That alone can make a huge difference.”

AJ agrees that the benefits extend beyond aesthetics. “When people see a version of themselves that looks less tired or tense, they carry that confidence into every interaction. It’s not about vanity; it’s about alignment between how you feel and how you look.”

Whether it’s a subtle refresh or a more sculpted profile you’re after, one rule applies. Go to someone qualified and honest. Because the best injectables are the ones no one can tell you’ve had.

Leanne Cashmore

INJECTABLE SKINCARE

One way of achieving glowing, plump skin is with a new wave of injectables which are blurring the line between cosmetic treatment and skincare. Products like Profhilo, Sunekos and Rejuran feed the skin, rather than fill or freeze it.

“Think of these treatments as high-performance hydrators that work beneath the surface,” says Cashmore Clinic’s Leanne Cashmore. “They’re basically moisturisers you inject that deliver hydration, collagen stimulation and improved texture.”

Profhilo uses pure hyaluronic acid to hydrate and stimulate collagen and elastin, improving skin firmness and elasticity. Sunekos combines hyaluronic acid with amino acids to restore volume and smoothness, targeting dullness and fine lines. Meanwhile, Rejuran, made from polynucleotides derived from salmon DNA, focuses on healing and regeneration, which is particularly effective for improving texture, tone and scarring.

“These treatments are perfect for people who don’t necessarily want fillers but do want their skin to look fresher and healthier,” adds Leanne.

Each treatment works differently, but all hydrate skin, to make it look naturally rejuvenated with no filter required.

SEEDS OF SUCCESS

This locally owned building company is proving that people-first values and precision quality can transform the construction game.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED

Sitting down with Flowerday Homes directors Rik and Fiona Flowerday, along with general manager Daren Green, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Flowerday Homes is an anomaly in many ways — unlike many of the other big-hitting builders, Flowerday Homes is not a franchise and has kept its sole base as Tauranga. The company reach, however, is far beyond the Bay.

In the 2024 financial year they were the 27th largest builder in New Zealand and the fourth in the Bay of Plenty by number of building consents issued. This current year sees the ongoing construction of Te Mania, a master-planned subdivision in Te Puke, developed and built by Flowerday Homes. Rik and Fi continue to head up the business they started together in 2014 with the same joint vision today that they had at inception — that they would operate a building company that is, in Rik’s words, “building homes, enriching lives and creating communities.”

The ethos may be the same, but there has been enormous change within the company. They laugh reflectively when Rik admits that “many and expensive” mistakes have been made along the way. But the learning curve has brought them to the place they are now, which is one with a focused lead in Daren Green, and an incredibly high-performing and loyal team. With the additions to their dedicated staff of Brendyn Gray and Mark Hooper, both of whom have extensive industry experience of 20 and 18 years respectively, they also consider contractors and subbies — the majority of whom have consistently worked for them for 10 years — as part of the operation.

2 Spiralis Close

Riding high from the prestigious 2025 Master Builder House of the Year awards, where Flowerday Homes entered two houses (one won Gold, the other won both Gold and a Regional Category) they are collectively clearly excited not just by the accolade but by the judge’s surmise.

Fi shows me the brochure, which states: “What stands out most is the care taken with the build. Every detail has been handled with focus and precision. The result is a home that not only meets the brief but is delivered to a very high standard.”

This, they all agree, is validation of exactly what they strive for on each and every build. As Daren puts it, “If I could, I would say to all clients that every house we build, whether it be a 120sqm dwelling or a 350sqm design and build, our quality and attention to detail does not change. And that’s through a rigorous process that our construction team has set up, and working closely with our sub-contractors who have a gold standard on everything they do.”

Achieving this kind of precision quality across such a vast number of builds is not just good luck. Fi, Rik and Daren have worked tirelessly from the ground up to instill systems and processes, as well as values within the team, to ensure there is no margin for error.

As Fi explains, “We’ve spent a lot of time working on our company core values.” These, Rik says, are: “Honesty, Empathy, Accountability, Respect and Trust — an acronym of HEART — which is at the core of everything we do.”

These values have always been there, but the company has realised the importance of articulating them, which in turn says Daren, “ensures they are delivered on a consistent basis.”

Both Rik and Fi credit Daren with developing and leading the culture of the company to an extent that it’s known that Flowerday Homes is a good place to be a client, as well as a good place to work. There’s an emphasis on staff wellbeing, which is wrapped up within the stringent health and safety measures.

As Fi notes, wellness and mental health are a big part of overall health, in what can be a high-stress industry. Fi reflects on the fact that the cultural shift has led to a more cohesive team not just on the job, but also in leisure time.

“We’ve got a social club, and we do fun activities together. In the office we have lunch around the table and the girls go for a walk afterwards. I enjoy coming to the office, there’s a good vibe here.”

Rik agrees: “It’s not just because we have a fruit bowl and drinks on a Friday — it’s an alignment of our values, which impact every decision we make as a business internally and externally.”

The key word they all agree on — in relation to both staff and clients — is communication. As Fi points out: “Everyone knows their job and what they do. We used to have quite blurred lines, and now it’s a very well oiled machine… Communication is prioritised internally and externally, so there’s lots of comms with clients. From experience we know the thing that people love when they’re building houses is to hear from their builder all the time. But we’re also rigorous on internal comms with one another.”

Daren agrees: “We’ve set up a structure that every staff member in the business contributes to how the model functions. Every person has a voice, and with this system no comment or question goes unnoticed.”

Fi rounds off: “There’s a lack of bureaucracy because we’re not a franchise — we can do what we want. We’re a nimble business.”

Internal streamlining and cohesiveness are reflected in client liaison and satisfaction, which, they comment proudly, is excellent.

As Fi says, “We’ll spend as much time as the client wants or needs — there’s never a rush, it’s always at your own pace. Once things are consented, our construction team takes over. Their allocated project manager will call them regularly and send detailed site reports with updates and photos. They also have access to the BuilderTrend app, which has a live schedule.”

In addition to their goal of absolute customer satisfaction, Flowerday Homes has invested heavily into the concept of sustainability within the building process.

Fi explains: “We’ve got a really keen eye on sustainability — we’re always looking at how to reduce, recycle, repurpose. Te Mania gave us a unique opportunity to break old habits of ‘everything goes in the bin.’ As the sole builder on site, with all trades part of our team, we could educate everyone and shift the culture as we work toward a goal of zero waste.”

Te Mania Point

With so much positivity around Te Mania, both in terms of the process and the outcome, the natural next step for Flowerday Homes is to bring focus to their Design and Build (D&B) arm.

In many ways this feels like going back to grass roots, but with a more experienced and empowered team. The addition of Mark Hooper, who specialises in D&B, and is well known for his expertise, lends them even more gravitas. Each of them is really excited about the creative opportunities that D&B brings — and, they point out, the builders love it too. There is so much scope in this area, not just with products but with the freedom of designs; Daren is emphatic when it comes to what Flowerday Homes brings to this arena.

“If I take my Flowerday hat off, and say right — I’m going to build my dream house tomorrow, I would 100 percent deal with this business, because of the attention to detail, quality and customer focus ethos.”

On a personal basis Daren is highly motivated by delivering results clients can be proud of and by team success.

“What drives me is getting the best out of people. Getting the right people on the bus is an important first step. We have that.”

Rik, on the other hand, is fired up by the big picture. “That’s what inspires me. Te Mania has this old-school community feel — kids wandering from home to the park, neighbours out and about. Seeing that come to life is something I’m really proud of.”

Fiona is passionate about ensuring the brand stands by the strong values that it has been built on from day one. The common ground, as Daren surmises, is on what they deliver: “Quality is in our DNA.”

FLOWERDAYHOMES.CO.NZ

THE RATE ESCAPE

With rates easing, Brooke Reynolds from Rapson Loans and Finance explains how to make every dollar work harder for your home goals.

As a mortgage adviser, I’m often the first to hear the collective sigh of relief when interest rates start to fall. Suddenly, those repayments feel a little less suffocating and the financial horizon looks a touch brighter. But while lower rates are welcome news, there is actually a lot more to think about than a slightly smaller weekly or fortnightly repayment.

If you’re already a homeowner, it’s tempting to let those savings slip quietly back into everyday life. Though there’s nothing wrong with a few extra dinners out and more room in the budget, if you can, consider keeping your repayments where they are. It’s one of the most effective, low-effort ways to get ahead.

By paying the same amount while your rate is lower, you’ll chip away at your principal faster and save thousands in interest over the life of your loan. Future-you will be very grateful.

A rate drop is also a good reminder to review your mortgage structure. Should you fix now? Should you split your loan? Locking in a lower rate can offer certainty, but there’s real value in maintaining flexibility as the market continues to shift. This is where personalised advice matters. The right structure isn’t one-size-fits-all, and small tweaks can make a meaningful difference over time.

For buyers, falling rates can feel like a golden ticket. Yes, your borrowing power usually increases, but so does everyone else’s. More buyers step into the market, competition ramps up, and the home that felt comfortably within reach last month may suddenly attract hotter interest. The best thing to do is to get your pre-approval sorted early, understand your true limit and don’t let cheaper money nudge you into paying more than a property is worth to you.

Lower rates also affect your savings behaviour. With less interest being earned on money sitting in the bank, it’s a good moment to check whether your savings accounts are still working for you. And if you’re building a deposit, make a habit of reviewing your KiwiSaver regularly. You want to ensure your fund choice and contribution strategy are supporting your home-buying goals, not quietly undermining them.

Falling interest rates are an opportunity, not a guarantee. They can open doors, but only if you walk through the right ones. Before you make a move, make sure you think about your strategy. In a shifting market, a plan is everything.

RAPSONLOANS.CO.NZ

MELBOURNE IN MOTION

Melbourne is a city of all things to all people, yet it’s as individual as the people who inhabit it. And it’s a place that has Jo Ferris captivated.

I last visited Melbourne 28 years ago, to see The Three Tenors on the MCG’s hallowed grounds. Previous trips include tennis at the Australian Open and catching up with ex-pats in the suburbs. After so long, thoughts of reviving memories certainly whet the appetite.

Keith Urban rocking his guitar riffs was the reason for this trip. However, my foodie friend and I were keen to tempt our taste buds as well — all in just five days.

Given New Zealand’s entire population f its in this eclectic city, exploring everything is impossible. Melbourne is vast. It stops a nation every year for the Melbourne Cup. It’s home of Aussie rules footie and arguably Australia’s soul of culture and cuisine.

A city of immense diversity, it is the 10th largest immigrant population among world metropolitan areas, with around 100 different ethnicities. From Greek to Arabic, Vietnamese to Mandarin, strolling Melbourne’s inner sanctum is akin to mingling amid melodious bird chatter.

Downtown truly buzzes. And, amazingly, everyone is friendly. Helpful too, when you need help with trams.

DO

Melbourne’s free tram system has to be one of its best attractions. While free only within the city centre, routes include all that makes Melbourne unique. Modern trams have replaced Melbourne’s iconic vehicles of the past. However, one trip remains for these distinctive trundlers, as synonymous with Melbourne’s history as Flinders Rail Station.

Route 35 starts near this station — a scenic circuit that departs every 12 minutes, passing notable landmarks and an audio commentary enhancing the experience. Enjoy the free journey as a complete tour, or hop on and off to explore Melbourne’s wider city attractions.

Having also paid for a day ticket on either trams or trains, we asked a friendly copper the best place to go. St Kilda was the instant response. More specifically, Acland Street, last cab on the rank — and a great tip.

Acland Street is home to artisans and foodies. Pavements are festooned with fashion racks; shop windows are adorned with patisseries that put kilos on just looking at them. Wisely avoiding those, we plumped for a pub lunch, before the return trip, past Lunar Park, Docklands and historic landmarks.

QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET

You could spend a week in Queen Victoria Market and probably still not explore everything. The indoor food hall is a banquet of extraordinary proportions. The chatter and banter, smells and samples have to be seen to be believed. This, even before you wander into the craft market and aisles of treasures, clothing and jewellery. And that’s just during the day. Throughout the seasons, night markets take control each Wednesday. Luckily, we caught the last of the winter series. A smorgasbord of international foodie flavours and fashion — nirvana on steroids!

EAT

Melbourne is legendary for its market fare and laneway eateries. With only days to absorb it, our focus was downtown. A stone’s-throw from Flinders Station, Degraves Street is a city favourite. Flanked by restaurants, umbrella seating dominating the lane’s no-vehicle thoroughfare, staff on sidewalks vie for custom; blackboard specials at their side and menu in hand. Lygon Street — famously known as ‘Little Italy’ — is Melbourne’s birthplace of café culture.

After a free tram leg from the city centre, it’s an easy walk to this precinct, past the historic Melbourne Gaol, if you want a sideline attraction. Good to know: Restaurants only come alive as day turns towards evening.

Arriving mid-afternoon, we opted for a sweet treat. Tiramisu — shared, thanks to its gargantuan serving for one!

STAY

Choosing where to stay boils down to what you want to do and how long you have. Being closest to the action was a priority — and affordability. Mercure Melbourne Southbank fitted the bill nicely.

Sitting opposite Flinders Station on the other side of the Yarra River, it was both central and affordable, taxis conveniently outside the front door. To the tennis centre for Keith Urban’s concert, it was around AU$45; and from AU$85 to AU$100 one way to the airport. With twin rooms costing between AU$250 and AU$285, there’s a restaurant if you want. Obviously, we avoided it. This is Melbourne, after all.

Just a five-minute walk away is the Casino by the Yarra River and riverboat restaurants for a true tourist experience, as well as eateries galore within cooee.

As a short hop across the ditch, you can’t beat Melbourne’s inner-city vibe. Its high-rise architecture is mesmerising — sexy with its glistening rainbow of glass-wall artistry; and simply dazzling at night.

After a week basking in it and memories renewed, I’m not waiting another 28 years to return.

HISTORIC, LEGENDARY, UNMISTAKABLE

• Wominjeka (welcome) – acknowledges Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong/Boon Wurrung, the First Peoples of Narrm (Melbourne).

• Flinders Street Station is Australia’s oldest train station, and busiest in the southern hemisphere.

• Free inner-city transport includes the historic W-class trams on Route 35. This City Circle tram passes Melbourne Aquarium, Docklands, Federation Square, Parliament House and St Paul’s Cathedral, among other landmarks.

• Myki is a reusable travel card and ticket for trains, trams and buses. Buy and top up at numerous shops, including 7-Eleven stores.

• CBD landmarks include Yarra River, river boats and walkways, MCG, Melbourne Park sports entertainment precinct, Federation Square, Parliament House, Crown Casino, Arts Centre, Melbourne Sky Deck, Old Melbourne Gaol, Docklands, China Town, among others.

• Queen Victoria Market dates back 140 years; with its historic Meat and Fish Hall, fresh produce, arts and crafts. Seasonal night markets run on Wednesdays, while markets elsewhere have their own distinctive vibe.

• Destination shopping includes Myers, David Jones, Collins Street boutiques, Emporium Melbourne and Melbourne Central centre.

MISSION POSSIBLE

With a hit series under her belt, Chloe Parker is proof that big dreams can start anywhere.

WORDS KARL PUSCHMANN

Chloe Parker always loved the movies. As a young girl, she was captivated by Julie Andrews’ performance in the beloved Disney classic The Sound of Music.

“I've watched that over a hundred times,” she says, from her home in the coastal town of Athenree, which lies in the stretch between Waihi Beach and Katikati.

But it was watching the movies of screen icon Meryl Streep that really gave her the acting bug.

“I remember Meryl Streep in Julie and Julia. There was so much joy in that performance,” she says. “And then when she played Margaret Thatcher, she completely

transformed. I was like, ‘How is that even possible?’. There was something so magical about what she was doing.”

She wanted to get close to that magic. But, in her quiet town, there weren’t many options for a 12-year-old to study acting, so she decided to study it herself.

“I just started Googling, out of desperation,” she laughs. “I wanted to know how these incredible actors that I idolised were doing what they were doing.”

Through her research, she discovered the famous Stanislavski Method of acting, which in turn led her to other methods, such as Meisner and Strasberg. She also compiled a list of recommended books and began dutifully checking them out from the library.

“I was in a small town and isolated from big communities of actors and places where I could challenge myself,” she says. “It was my way to get closer to it and to have that

sense of, ‘I'm doing it, I'm doing it’.

“I was so curious because when you don't know anything about acting, it seems impossible, and I had no clue how to approach it. By reading those books on technique and building characters, it was my way of learning how to do it.”

Acting felt like a distant dream. But reality began to seep in when she heard about the Bay of Plenty Actors Studio, known affectionately as BOPAS, which is run by actor, coach and agent Tanya Horu.

“She created this hub of actors and creatives,” Chloe says. “I started going to classes there, so she was my way in. It was a beacon of hope.”

Tanya had links to the national acting scene, and with BOPAS’ focus on acting for the screen, Chloe began driving to Auckland regularly for auditions.

“Tanya and the actors at BOPAS helped nurture that hope that it could really happen,” she smiles. “The people I was surrounded by made me feel like acting was possible.”

Her first role was on a short film called Earthlings, but her big break was more recently on the popular mystery drama The Ridge, a British and New Zealand television series set in Scotland and New Zealand starring Outlander’s Lauren Lyle and local actor Jay Ryan (Go Girls, IT: Chapter Two).

“It was such an insane role to get. I feel so lucky that I got it,” Chloe grins. “Those first few days on set when I was surrounded by all these incredible actors, that was when I was like, ‘Okay, it’s actually happening’.”

Her first days on set were a cocktail of awe and outright terror.

“Honestly, it was terrifying,” she says. “The director’s a big deal. All the actors are phenomenal. Sixty people are standing around... I felt like I was kind of going to explode. It was the most excited I’ve ever felt.”

For years, she’d been dreaming of having a character that she could dive into and develop, the way her acting heroes did. And with her character, Sadie, that dream was realised.

“Exploring human nature and trying to figure out the way that people are and why they are the way they are, is what I love about acting,” she explains. “Sadie’s a small-town kid, quite lonely. So I instantly had a connection to that. I knew straight away where she was coming from and why she was acting the way she was.”

With The Ridge in the can, and another yet-to-be-announced project almost complete, she’s readying herself for a move to the UK, where she plans to continue chasing her dream.

“It felt like the right time to try,” she says. “I haven’t got anything lined up over there.” Then she grins and adds, “I’ll just land and hope.”

The 20-year-old actor refused to let geography get in the way of her passion. Now, with a major role in a hit series behind her, she’s about to leave Aotearoa to take on the world. She hopes other young people in the Bay also chase their dreams. She’s proof that you don’t need to be based in a main centre to make it.

“If you put the work in and just keep trying, you can make something impossible happen,” she says. “You just have to keep going. If you have something you know you’re meant to do, then keep going. Don’t give up.”

The Ridge is streaming now on Neon.

GRANDEUR

This timeless home blends Victorian grace with modern luxury on five peaceful acres.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Entering the sweeping driveway of this Pyes Pa estate, you could be forgiven for thinking this manor was born in a past era of opulence and genteel lifestyle.

That’s partly true. The home certainly exudes the magnificence of bygone history. Except for one key point. It was developed in 2009; designed, built and fashioned by an English couple with a vision to recreate American Victorian architecture.

The current owners are only the second family to cherish the lifestyle and extraordinary detail of this unique home. Exploring its depth takes time, such is the scrupulous attention to intricate elements and fittings imported from around the world.

In developing this five-acre landscape, it was important for the home and garden to be equal partners. Both are integral to the estate’s mystique. Its enchanting tranquillity embraces rolling lawns, mature specimens, fruit trees, table grapes, an exquisite wisteria-clad bower, and two kitchen gardens.

Chickens have departed as these owners prepare for their next venture; but the run and free-range lifestyle begs new occupants; just like the house. Sitting centre stage within this idyllic landscape; it is majestic — true reverence to the vision behind its creation.

Expansive at around 706sqm — living areas and amenities dominate the ground floor with five bedrooms and bathrooms above. Stepping into the atrium welcome, it’s clear from the outset that every aspect of this home revolves around space, scale and soaring ceilings. The bespoke kitchen and casual dining hub sit to one side, before stepping into a family lounge, or formal dining room, if you choose. That’s the joy of this home. Every room is its own entity, while offering personal preference for its use.

That’s the other aspect to absorb here. While there is a common thread, with wainscoting wall panels and Burmese ironwood timber flooring; no ceiling is the same, no architrave, cornice, light fitting, door hardware or window treatment. Lead-light panes, designed specifically for each room, feature different patterns and tones; the most romantic seen in the master bathroom, above the shower.

Of the five bedrooms, three have ensuites, customised accordingly, with imported vanities, mirrors, lighting, and Victorian claw-foot baths in two. The fourth bedroom has semi-ensuite privilege with the family bathroom, and is shared with the fifth bedroom. Storage throughout is phenomenal — dressing rooms, closets and utility rooms all highlight their relevance to this home’s status.

A dedicated study, cinema room, billiard room and reception lounge complete the home downstairs, each personalised with purpose. Of all the intricate details that amaze, the turret housing the reception lounge and primary bedroom above both feature ceiling styles modelled on the shape of British 50-pence coin.

The wrap-around verandah overlooking the pool was also masterfully designed, with shade in summer, sun in winter and windows escaping the rain. The detail everywhere is infinite, right to the four-bay garage. With significant space for vehicles and work, its vast attic is one of the final surprises.

Or is it the resort swimming pool? With an outdoor shower, pool house, changing rooms and powder room, this pool holds its own secret — capturing water for irrigation. Solar panels and battery storage provide free power, with the excess sold to the grid. Robotic mowers groom lawns like velvet. A three-bay American barn offers further storage, while two gated entrances ensure security.

Truly a masterpiece of historical homage, fashioned with all today’s modern features, this is a rare invitation to a cherished lifestyle. A rural aspect on the city fringe — three minutes to an international Cambridge curriculum school, handy to one-stop shopping at The Crossing and easy drives to the airport and expressways. City and lifestyle in one.

866 Pyes Pa Rd, Pyes Pa

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

CREATING A STIR

Something’s been happening within our café culture. Coffee is not off the menu, of course, but cups are now frothing with so many alternatives. Resident foodie Stacey Jones checks out what’s brewing.

If you’ve ordered a drink in the Bay lately, the person ahead of you in the café line probably isn’t asking for a flat white. They’re more likely to be choosing between a turmeric latte, a strawberry cold matcha, or an iced cacao latte with coconut cloud.

Lately, the coffee menus are looking more like a cocktail list. We clearly like drinks that taste great and make us feel good. And with the queues and growing menus, the Bay isn’t just ready for it — we’re drinking it up. A few Bay locals are now turning that interest into small businesses.

KAWAKAWA CALLING

Take Laureen and Dan of Native Tree Farm. What started as a simple question, “Why aren’t we doing more with our own native plants?” sparked the discovery of their kawakawa latte — green, warm, comforting and distinctly Aotearoa.

“All these turmeric, beetroot, matcha lattes… and here we were sitting on this incredible plant that’s been in Aotearoa forever,” Laureen says.

The lightbulb moment hit after she tried a turmeric latte at sunrise after Pilates has grown into a weekly ritual.

“We’d brew a thermos, jump in the ocean and sit on the sand talking about life,” they told me. “Coffee kept us going, but matcha slowed us down, in a good way.”

Their ceremonial-grade matcha, sourced directly from Japan after months of blind tastings, now has a devoted following. Offices do Matcha Wednesday. Friends treat it as a midweek reset. at a local café and realised the world was more than ready for their unique blend. Six months of testing later, and enough sampling “to make the whānau absolutely over it”, they nervously offered their kawakawa latte to that same café. One cautious sip and one grin from the owner resulted in, “Oh wow, that’s really nice.”

“Kawakawa is different to cacao and matcha,” she explains. “It has its own special flavour and then goes the extra mile by warming you from the inside. You feel it in your mouth, then that warmth travels through your body.

“Alternative drinks provide new ways for people to enjoy natural and traditional ingredients. It’s a connection to nature experienced in a way that aligns with a balanced and wellness-centred lifestyle.”

Their goal is to keep sharing the kawakawa latte and grow awareness of the plant and its potential. NATIVETREEFARM.CO.NZ

MATCHA MELLOWED

Over in Papamoa, Matcha Wednesday is showing what happens when a drink becomes a community. What began as two best friends, co-founders Ashley Shore and Jenna Mueller, sharing matcha at sunrise after Pilates has grown into a weekly ritual.

“We’d brew a thermos, jump in the ocean and sit on the sand talking about life,” they told me. “Coffee kept us going, but matcha slowed us down, in a good way.”

Their ceremonial-grade matcha, sourced directly from Japan after months of blind tastings, now has a devoted following. Offices do Matcha Wednesday. Friends treat it as a midweek reset.

“People are craving gentler, more grounded energy in such a fast-paced world,” Ashley says. “Matcha offers calm focus rather than intensity, along with a moment of mindfulness built into the process. People want a way to energise that doesn’t spike or overwhelm, something that supports their wellbeing rather than pushing their pace.”

Ashley reckons the Bay’s love of alt-drinks was inevitable. “The Bay has a wellness-focused, ocean loving, movement culture that gravitates toward mindful living. That lifestyle creates space for alt-drinks like matcha to complement how people want to feel, which is energised and connected to their health and wellness rituals.”

MATCHAWEDNESDAY.CO.NZ

FORKIN’ GOOD DRESSING

Kate Fenwick explains why DIY might just save your fridge – and the planet.

Simon and Kate on the set of their podcast, Forkin' Good.

If you’d told me last year that co-hosting a podcast with celebrity chef Simon Gault would turn me into a homemade salad dressing evangelist, I would have laughed and pointed to the 14 half-used condiments permanently living in my fridge door. Yet here we are.

The Forkin’ Good Podcast, for me, was meant to be about mainstreaming waste education, but it has also become my unofficial weekly cooking lesson, complete with gourmet wisdom and the occasional joke aimed at my "creative" kitchen habits.

One of Simon’s greatest gifts so far is teaching me the world’s simplest, most versatile salad dressing: 1 tsp creamy mustard, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and any amount of balsamic vinegar you like. Whisk it. Then pretend you’re a culinary genius. It tastes incredible.

More importantly, it solves a huge part of the waste problem sitting in your fridge. New Zealand households throw away over 100,000 tonnes of food waste every year, much of it because we overbuy, underuse and forget what is lurking in the back of the fridge. Add to that the estimated 1.76 billion single-use plastic containers we send to landfill annually, and suddenly that innocent-looking bottle of sesame-lime dressing becomes part of a much bigger issue.

Store-bought dressings are classic "use once, abandon forever" items. You try a new flavour, use two tablespoons, then it becomes a long-term fridge tenant until the expiry date finally forces you to confront your choices. That is food waste and plastic waste in one sad bottle.

Making your own dressing means: using ingredients you already have, so there is less waste and fewer forgotten bottles; avoiding preservatives and fillers, which is better for you and better for the planet; cutting back on plastic, because you can reuse the same jar over and over; and actually finishing what you make (wild concept, I know). And the best part is that you become more connected to your food again.

It is a tiny step back toward the DIY kitchen culture our grandparents lived by, where food was simple and nothing went to waste because resources were respected. That is the heart of the Forkin’ Good Podcast: learning simple shifts and rediscovering the joy of doing things yourself.

So tune in if you want practical tips and the occasional roasting of my cooking skills. We are pretty much on every platform you can find, including YouTube if you want to actually see what we are up to. Your fridge, and the planet, will thank you.

WASTEDKATE.CO.NZ

THE BEACON

Commanding an expansive site on Ongare Point, this exceptional home stands proudly above its neighbours in this peaceful seaside enclave above Tauranga Harbour.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Set on a private ridge with gated entry, the residence is the result of a thoughtful collaboration between the owner, designer Richard Fuller and award-winning builder Belco Homes.

With deep family ties to the land, the owners paid homage to its history by salvaging native rimu from the original homestead — now reimagined as a stunning feature wall and bureau in the family room.

While this sentimental touch celebrates the heritage that inspired the new residence, this property also showcases what can be achieved today when space, design and craftsmanship unite in perfect harmony.

The master retreat is a true sanctuary, with sumptuous space and a grandstand balcony overlooking the harbour. Generous living zones on the lower level are designed for seamless indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for entertaining or quiet enjoyment.

Serve refreshments and nibbles through sliding windows in the bespoke kitchen to the courtyard. Host friends in the sunny ambience of the games’ room. Enjoy alfresco entertainment outdoors, dine formally inside or relax fireside in the family living area.

Moods change to a more intimate ambience in the formal lounge. For ultimate unwinding however, sway gently in the innovative hanging furniture in the sheltered outdoor lounge.

Occupying a sprawling 5,529sqm site, the home extends across 451sqm over two levels. This is complemented by extensive shedding, a swimming pool and tennis court, yet still boasts ample space for recreation and relaxation in the beautifully landscaped grounds.

Every aspect of this home revolves around its breathtaking scenery. Sweeping harbour views capture Bowentown Heads, Matakana Island and beyond to Mauao and Mount Maunganui.

Each room enjoys a unique outlook; whether coastal or countryside. Offering four bedrooms, each enjoys its own ensuite, while a powder room increases convenience for guests.

Apart from the internal garage, substantial shedding provides further space for vehicles, storage or workshop use. This is complemented by a separate garden shed for tools and equipment.

Luxury and practicality combine through a host of high-spec features, both inside and out. These include advanced heating systems and a state-of-the-art sound system to robotic pool and lawn maintenance.

A home for the seasons and generations; this property is truly the jewel of Ongare Point — a rare opportunity to secure a landmark coastal resident of enduring quality, privacy and prestige.

300 Ongare Point Rd, Ongare Point

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

SLICE OF ROME

Tauranga’s Stassano Deli proves you don’t need a plane ticket to savor an authentic European deli escape.

WORDS HAYLEY BARNETT / PHOTOS BEN PARKINSON @ PABLO CREATIVE

If, like me, you haven’t set foot in Europe in over a decade and you’re craving a dose of that effortlessly cool European culture, Stassano Deli is the place to go.

Taking over the stunning art deco building next to Barrio Brothers on Grey Street, this eatery couldn’t have picked a better spot. The light streams in through those huge heritage windows, and suddenly, you could be in Milan instead of Tauranga.

Noel and Kim Cimadon, the couple behind Tauranga favourites Picnicka, Clarence Bistro and Alpino, have once again struck gold. Stassano perfectly blends classic Italian style with a fresh, modern twist. And to top it off, they’ve found a charming young Italian named Edwardo to serve your espresso and deli sandwich, transporting you straight to the streets of Rome.

Admittedly, it feels almost surreal stepping into such an authentic Italian deli right in the heart of Tauranga’s CBD. What did we do to deserve this little slice of heaven?

When I asked Noel where the inspiration came from, his answer was simple: “We’ve just gone back to basics with Stassano. We really enjoy the simplicity of Italian hospitality rather than the over-complicated general hospitality at the moment.”

Noel describes it as “a little place that anyone who works in the city can go to,” whether that’s one of their loyal Clarence regulars or, as he puts it, “the office worker on a small salary.”

The goal was to create something approachable yet still affordable, even for the drinkers. “We’ve got very thoughtful wines and beers on tap with a very simple concept. Like in Italy, it’s just a carafe and a glass and that’s it.”

The menu is a mouth-watering mix of Mediterranean and Italian-inspired dishes, with a clear focus on classic deli sandwiches. The UNO team ordered a generous spread — the Ciabatta Mortadella, Chorizo Mozzarella, Sourdough Pastrami, Tramezzino Smoked Snapper, and a Brioche Ham and Cheese Toastie — and all promptly slipped into a glorious carb coma.

Take my advice and maybe just stick to one (though good luck choosing).

Noel told me his personal favourite is the same as mine: “I love mortadella. I love ciabatta. It just reminds me a lot of my childhood.”

His Italian roots give the place its heart, but he’s still keeping things evolving. “We just added the afternoons so we do after-work drinks and snacks… and the next thing is our gelato offering. My cousin is coming over from Italy to help get it started. He has been a gelato master over there for over 30 years.”

Another must-try is the naturally f lavoured Berry and Basil Soda, and of course, the decadent Tiramisu and Cannolo with Choc Nut Filling, which is the perfect sweet finish to an Italian escape.

As Noel says, “The vibe’s good, and it’s great to see people sitting on the street. It was just a dead corner, and now it kind of feels like a movement.”

107 Grey Street

@stassano.deli

AGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

Cashmore Clinic’s Leanne Cashmore reveals why more people are choosing steady, regenerative treatments that age well.

PHOTO SALINA GALVAN

As we wrap up 2025, I’ve been aware of how people’s approach to their skin treatments has changed over the years. More clients want a sensible, long-term approach instead of pinning their hopes on a single quick fix. Injectables are still a key part of treatment plans, but they’re no longer only about softening lines or adding volume.

There’s been a real move toward options that encourage the skin to strengthen itself. Treatments like Rejuran, Profhilo and Sunekos that boost collagen and elastin so the skin gradually feels sturdier and more refreshed. There’s also been growing curiosity around regenerative treatments that work deeper down.

Growth factors, exosome-based therapies and polynucleotides made from salmon DNA all support the way skin cells communicate and heal. When that foundation is functioning well, the improvement of the day-to-day look and feel of the skin naturally follows.

Lately, timing is something clients are paying closer attention to as well. Rather than waiting for lines or texture changes to fully settle, many clients are choosing to build and “bank” collagen earlier. To make that effective, we often map out a mix of treatments, like skin boosters, regenerative injectables, needling, LED, laser and targeted skincare, and pace them in a way that suits how the skin works best.

This change in attitude has shaped how I work, too. Good treatment planning has become just as important as technique in understanding what the skin needs now, what it’s likely to need next, and how each treatment supports the one before it. When the sequence is right, the results stay consistent and look true to the person.

Looking ahead, I think people will keep looking for treatments that feel gentle and sustainable. They want to slow the signs of ageing while keeping their skin healthy and comfortable — fresher, without that “done” look.

If I had to summarise the year, I’d say the most satisfying results came from a balanced plan and a bit of patience. When treatments are chosen carefully and given time to do their job, the change looks natural, but simply better.

CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Just a few minutes from Tauranga city centre, there’s a place that has evolved through the work of many, all adding colour and creativity around its heritage charm.

The Historic Village has come alive with a new wave of energy, its heritage buildings now filled with boutique sustainable shopping, artisan studios, galleries, modern venues and plenty of delicious food lining the sunny cobblestoned streets.

A recent refresh has brought a lift of colour, with some careful restoration. The tasty food offerings are just one of the many reasons to visit. But, of course, it’s also the creative energy that defines the Village.

The Incubator Creative Hub anchors a broad arts community with exhibitions, workshops, a boutique cinema and live sessions at The Jam Factory. Their Tauranga Runway installation — nearly 100 metres of striking pavement art by local and international artists — has become a talking point on Main Street.

The Village also draws large community events, from Tauranga Diwali and Waitangi Day commemorations to the Multicultural Festival, Asian Food Festival and the ever-popular Jazz Village during the National Jazz Festival. It’s well worth a visit!

historicvillage.co.nz

THE MED LOUNGE & GARDEN

For fans of delicious Mediterranean food, The Med Lounge & Garden is bright, welcoming and just a little addictive, thanks in part to its house-made pitas, baked fresh at Falafel Metro. Fillings range from chicken and beef to haloumi, sabich and falafel, each one loaded right to the bottom and finished with punchy sauces. Fries are golden, perfectly seasoned and seriously hard to resist. Lunches hum with locals, while dinner brings a slower, more social pace under the garden lights. The food and atmosphere will get you hooked.

MEDLOUNGE.CO.NZ

STITCHMAKERS

You might walk in thinking you just need a spool of thread, but you’ll leave inspired to start something new. At StitchMakers in Tauranga’s Historic Village, there are quality threads, fabrics, needles and kits that cater both to those new to the craft as well as someone embarking on their third embroidered masterpiece. It’s not just about supplies; it’s about being part of a creative community. It’s the place to restock your favourites, find a gift or finally start that project you’ve been planning. There’s colour and creativity everywhere.

STITCHMAKERS.CO.NZ

IMPRINT GALLERY

This light-filled gallery inside the village, showcases the work of three mixed-media artists – Andrea Green, Jackie Knotts and Stella Clark. Originally focused on original prints by New Zealand artists, it has since evolved to include paintings, giclée prints, cards, merchandise and a thoughtful selection of second-hand books. The exhibition space, known as The Cube, changes monthly and is available for hire. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am – 2pm, or by appointment, it’s an inviting stop for anyone who appreciates local creativity.

@IMPRINTGALLERY_

THE INCUBATOR CREATIVE HUB

Look beyond the big red barn to find the creative heart of Tauranga’s Historic Village. The Incubator Creative Hub supports 16 artist-run spaces spread throughout the Village, from ceramic studios and galleries to a vintage cinema, boutique music venue and art workshop campus. It’s where artists, makers and the wider community come together to create and celebrate. Monthly ‘street party’ exhibition openings turn the Village into a hive of art, while workshops and community projects keep the creative energy flowing all year round. It’s proudly accessible, and proof that art in Tauranga isn’t hidden in galleries, it’s thriving right out in the open.

THEINCUBATOR.CO.NZ

AWHI

Awhi Company is a Māori-owned pakihi creating blankets for the whole whānau. Their store in Tauranga Moana includes pēpi essentials, clothing, kai, skincare, books, gifts and everyday home items. They support over 30 Māori-owned businesses and every product in store is chosen with love. What began with handmade baby blankets has grown into a place where everyone can discover products made with care and feel wrapped in aroha.

AWHICOMPANY.CO.NZ

TRÉS CHIC / VILLAGE BEAUTY / HEMP DEPO (HISTORIC VILLAGE COLLECTIVE)

Three businesses share one roof here and each brings something distinct. Trés Chic adds flair with its mix of eclectic giftware and fabulosities, Village Beauty brings more than 30 years of experience in skin and beauty therapy, and Hemp Depo offers sustainable hemp clothing and alterations. Together they’ve created a friendly, community-driven marketplace where you can take your time, and easily f ind something you didn’t know you needed.

HEMPDEPO.NZ

TIMBER WITH A CONSCIENCE

A centuries-old Japanese timber tradition brings sustainable beauty to Tauranga’s newest design showroom.

WORDS JO FERRIS / PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN + SUPPLIED

Centuries’ old Japanese philosophy and unique timber is catching eyes with the opening of a brand-new showroom in Tauranga’s Piccadilly Arcade. Sugi is Japanese cedar.

As a construction material, cedar isn’t new in this country. What makes yakisugi — charred Japanese cedar — unique, is the extraordinary effects created in various profiles; both as exterior cladding and internal elements.

Architects and builders have used sugi in several homes in this region. However, the product has sat relatively under the radar. Pentarch Forest Products is the New Zealand arm of Australian company Pentarch Forestry, one of Australia’s largest suppliers of hardwood. Its new showroom introduces this unique timber in a variety of forms and finishes.

Yakisugi isn’t simply cedar. It is an artform; complex in its simplicity, visually striking, durable and healthier.

Pentarch imports manager Margerita de Kwant says sugi is timber with a conscience. When you understand its history in Japanese culture over thousands of years, it’s easy to appreciate its place in New Zealand; as designers, builders and homeowners seek more eco-friendly products.

Pentarch imports manager Margerita de Kwant

With about 68 percent of Japan covered in forests, thoughtful stewardship involves careful planting; harvests timed to maintain forest health, while reducing waste and minimising transport impacts.

Thanks to Japan’s efficient marine freight, Margerita says the carbon footprint of shipping is on a par with sourcing other materials. With sugi sustainably grown in Japan and processed in New Zealand, it is an affordable alternative.

The secret lies in yakisugi’s making. Through a highly-controlled fire process, yakisugi achieves stronger durability in minutes — involving intense kiln drying and removing the need for chemical stains or synthetic paints.

Thanks to Pentarch’s association with Motueka-based Natural House Company, its range of natural oils — comprising earth pigments and beeswax — enhance sugi’s healthier aesthetics and striking tones. This, on top of the various profiles themselves. Defying logic, the fully charred, black surface provides the highest durability and thermal quality, as evidenced in the ancient shrines of Japan, according to Margerita.

As the timber is brushed to create differing effects, the result is not only artistic, it’s three-dimensional when viewed in different lights and angles. Against varying backdrops, colours also appear to change.

Depending on location, external cladding’s maintenance reduces as years pass; making yakisugi even more cost-effective. Internally, its use is limitless — wall panelling, battens, screens, architraves — even furniture. Stepping inside Pentarch’s showroom in Piccadilly Arcade is like entering a whole new world in construction and interior design.

PENTARCH.CO.NZ

RHYTHM AND FLOW

Tauranga Museum promises to transform the city centre as it unveils its stunning state-of-the-art floating design.

WORDS JO-MARIE BAKER

Hidden behind construction hoardings on Hamilton and Willow Street, a breathtaking project is beginning to rise that will at long last unleash Tauranga CBD’s full potential.

Tauranga Museum is due to open for Matariki celebrations in 2028 and will undoubtedly transform our city centre. The wider $306m civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa, is expected to triple daily visitor numbers, and the museum — with its stunning façade — will be a major drawcard.

Warren and Mahoney principal architect Vajini Pannila leads a large team who have designed the new museum to look as though it’s floating above the land.

“It’s a once-in-a-generation project,” she acknowledges. “It was a moment for zooming out and thinking about the future of cultural buildings and asking, ‘what will a museum be in the future?’ These cultural and arts projects are very close to my heart, and I believe quite deeply in the impact they can have on our next generation.”

Extensive design workshops and consultation with mana whenua have created a building which will return the site to a place of prosperity and become a vibrant public space.

“Mana whenua were once thriving on this piece of land. It was a place of abundance. One of our design strategies was to have a continuous landscape that’s uninterrupted underneath the building. That also means the general public should be able to flow through it, so the foyer is designed in such a way that you can walk from one side of the site to the other.

“One of the concepts for the site-wide landscape is this idea of flowing water and pebbles, and so we’ve shaped the entrance foyer, which has a big level difference, to get this feeling of water having carved away these ramps, stairs and terraces. We took the challenge of trying to create a place where people can stop and sit. It’s like a living room for the city.”

The façade itself is inspired by traditional Māori storage vessels, such as woven baskets and waka huia treasure boxes. Caramel-coloured aluminum blades with a hint of metallic speckle are woven around the outside of the building, while a textured brick bends and curves its way around the base of the exhibition space in a strong geometric design.

“We have some deep cutouts within the tilted blades with some reflective glass elements sitting behind them. So a weaving pattern emerges in different ways as the light hits it at different times of the day. The exterior melts away and then it builds back up. It’s got this rhythm to it,” Vajini explains.

Warren and Mahoney principal architect Vajini Pannila.

“We did a lot of work on developing a bespoke profile for those blades, to get this sense of reflectivity and shadow and depth. Throughout every day it will look different depending on where the sun is and the season. We put a lot of work into that.”

She’s most proud of how the design enables such a large building to sit so lightly on the land. “The façade was a challenge because in order to make the building look very simple, the form of it has to work really hard to tell the story of these vessels. Getting the material to flow around the corners is really pushing the innovation in New Zealand. I think we’ve turned something that was a challenge into something that will be a triumph for a lot of different New Zealand suppliers and contractors.”

One eye-catching feature is inspired by a hīnaki (eel trap), which has an opening to draw fish inside.

“Typically for museums and gallery spaces, natural light is not welcome. But we had a very collaborative process with the museum director and have created a large glass opening that you’ll be able to see from the waterfront to help attract people to visit. The museum is curating a very special object that will be seen from that aperture. It will look incredible!”

The design team also collaborated with local Māori artists whose work will be overlaid on various architectural features, such as a frit on the glazed atrium roof and walls, and patterns on some of the exterior brick.

“They’ve taken our site-wide concepts and they’ve translated it into their art. So there’s a lot of ideas that are reinforced and keep finding form through our work and their work.”

Vajini says cultural engagement and co-design has been integral to the project. “The museum is a moment of reconciliation where this site will return to being a place of coming together and prosperity again.

“Civic buildings are a place where we understand our shared identity. I think people will feel in awe of Tauranga’s history and really understand their place within these rich stories that have come before them.”

TAURANGAHERITAGECOLLECTION.CO.NZ

A FRESH CANVAS

At Toi Tauranga Art Gallery, the new Creativity Centre offers a welcoming space to slow down and explore.

WORDS JO-MARIE BAKER | PHOTOS BRYDIE THOMPSON, IAN HUTCHINSON + SUPPLIED

Angie Ogilvy-Clark, education lead at Toi Tauranga Art Gallery.

Hands-on creativity sparks curiosity and joy, and Toi Tauranga Art Gallery’s new Creativity Centre is now becoming a central city haven for tamariki and adults alike.

“Creating art is about communicating in a visual sense,” explains Toi Tauranga Art Gallery director Sonya Korohina. “It’s another language and a way to express yourself and begin to engage with the ideas of others. In our fast paced, over-stimulated world, our Creativity Centre encourages us to really just pause, slow down and engage more deeply with what’s in front of us.”

Sonya Korohina, director at Toi Tauranga Art Gallery

This light-filled space is one of the highlights of the gallery’s recent redevelopment and is designed to host school groups, holiday programmes, weekend drop-in activities, workshops for all ages and more.

“Our Creativity Centre is a wonderful education space for our schools to come through during the day but it’s a flexible space for all ages, so we can host everything from an art history lecture series to a community group who want to make tapa cloths. Parents can also bring their children here at weekends and do hands-on art activities. There’s lots of lovely natural light coming in too which is really important as that often affects your creative mood.”

Adjustable tables and custom-designed seating can accommodate different heights, while the addition of sinks, cupboards, a data projector and multi-use peg boards mean the Creativity Centre can transform into a creative workshop space suitable for different ages and diverse interests, or be hired for meetings and events.

Sonya says the gallery’s education programme ties in with the national curriculum, with free teaching resources provided to schools before and after their visit. A bus paid for by funders is also available, making it easy for schools to travel to the city centre.

“It’s really important that children get to experience exhibitions rather than just looking at art on an iPad,” she says. “There’s nothing like actually being able to view a painting with a lot of detail in it or seeing the brush marks that the artist has made.

“Our education staff are all trained teachers who also come from art backgrounds. They develop workshops and programmes that relate directly to the shows that are within the gallery, so that might include clay making, sculptures, painting or even screen printing. Each child leaves with an artwork they have created in response to something they have seen that day.”

The gallery is currently seeking a naming partner for the Creativity Centre and is keen to hear from interested businesses or organisations. “It’s a wonderful way to give back to the community and to our next generation as well. It’s also an opportunity to be aligned with creativity, innovation, toi Māori and design, and have that reach out into our schools and local families.”

“We’ve also developed an interactive ‘Curiosity Guide’, which is a free booklet for all ages. There’s a couple of pages for each artist, and you can literally spend all day drawing, painting and moving. There’s even a page that encourages you to move like a worm based on one exhibition. Our Curiosity Guide allows children and adults to have a more enriched and deeper experience at the gallery.”

An artistic treasure hunt also awaits young visitors. Four ‘wonderboxes’ are now hidden in the walls of the gallery, with small symbols the only clue that something lies inside. “When you find and open each door, all of which are at the height of children, there’s a little exhibition hiding there, all lit up, to view. We’ll be changing them out from time to time so artists are regularly being commissioned for a wonderbox installation.”

Sonya says the gallery’s vision is for the Creativity Centre to become a lasting creative legacy for Tauranga Moana, making it a place of innovation and community pride.

“We’re excited to now have a dedicated space that’s purpose-designed for creativity in the city centre. It engages all the senses and promotes lifelong learning, creativity and wellbeing for our whole community.”

ARTGALLERY.ORG.NZ

STRAND AND DELIVER

Shelley Pullar from Salon G presents the ultimate summer hair survival guide.

PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED

Let’s be honest. Summer is glorious, but it’s also a minefield for our hair. Our locks can go from glossy to frizzy faster than you can say “beach day.” Here’s your ultimate guide to surviving the season, from a stylist who’s seen every strand scenario.

FRIZZ HAPPENS

Humidity is just moisture in the air, and your hair loves to interact with it. Because hair is hygroscopic, it absorbs and releases water depending on the environment. At around 40–60 percent humidity, your hair feels flexible and manageable. But once it hits 70 percent or more, expect frizz and shape loss. That’s when sealing in moisture is key. Think anti-humidity serums like Wella’s Ultimate Smooth Oil, which gives 96 hours of frizz control and UV protection, or Sebastian’s Taming Elixir with avocado oil for intense smoothness. Finish your style with Sebastian Reshaper for lasting hold that defies damp air.

Shelley Pullar

WHEN THE AIR GETS DRY

Low humidity (under 30 percent) is just as challenging. It zaps hydration, leaving hair static and brittle. Bring back the moisture with nourishing masks or oils, and look for humectants like aloe. Curly girls swear by Clever Curl Leave-In Cream paired with Dry Weather Gel to keep curls soft and defined. Salt, sun and style Heading beachside? Prep before you dip. Dampen your hair and add a leave-in conditioner or System Professional Helio Spray, a UV barrier that prevents dehydration and colour fade. After swimming, rinse with fresh water and follow up with a rich mask. Your future self (and your comb) will thank you.

STYLE SMART

Put down the blow-dryer and embrace the effortless vibe. Braids, buns and twists are your best friends. Try the overnight braid trick for beachy waves or “sock curls” for heatless bounce. For extra texture, mist with salt spray and shake out with your fingers. Scalp and colour care Don’t forget your scalp. Sunburns here in the Bay are no joke. Protect with SPF sprays or a hat, and soothe any burn with aloe gel. For blondes, protect tone and shine with System Professional Lux Blonde Biphase and a weekly purple shampoo to keep brassiness at bay.

So, whether you’re beach-bound or battling humidity, remember that summer hair is meant to move and breathe, just like you.

SALONGRANGE.COM

IT’S ALL IN THE GENES

Romy Kerr from Genetic Insight explains how understanding your DNA can protect your health, and your family’s future.

PHOTOS DEBORAH DE GRAAF

It was while watching her mum support a young couple going through the heartbreaking decision to terminate a pregnancy due to a serious congenital abnormality that Romy Kerr decided she too wanted to help people through some of life’s biggest and most distressing challenges. She was studying science at university and, in her words, stumbled into a genetics course by chance and quickly fell in love with it. Even still, she knew she didn’t want to work in a lab all day.

“I enjoyed the people side of genetics,” she says. “I wanted to sit with people who are making some of the hardest choices of their lives. They need love and they need kindness.”

This led her to the field of genetic counselling. It’s a relatively small field in New Zealand, but one that is in high demand overseas. Its impact can be profound for those facing potentially life-changing information.

“Genetic counselling is the process of taking a person through genetic testing for a number of different reasons,” Romy explains. “Genetic counsellors provide information about a genetic condition that might be in their family or help someone understand a new diagnosis. We provide information about their options and how a genetic result might impact them and their family. We also help with decisions around managing health after a diagnosis, or making decisions around having children without passing on a genetic condition.”

Romy says that genetic counsellors are an information source, but are also a source of support because many of the people that she sees are having to make increasingly scary decisions. They may be learning they are at risk of a condition that has no cure, or that their children may be at risk of a severe genetic condition.

“The topics are often quite heavy and emotional, and so we’re unpacking what that means for that person,” she says, noting that its impact can be profound in offering preventive options and emotional support for those facing potentially life-changing information.

For people with a known family condition, like breast cancer, for example, a simple swab test can put their mind at ease.

“If someone has been anxious about cancer their whole lives, they can now do something practical to check their risk and then find out early if they have cancer,” Romy says. “People have had genetic testing, decided to proactively take their ovaries out due to high risk, and have found cancer at that time that they just would never have known about. It saved their lives.”

GENETICINSIGHT.CO.NZ

FISHER? HOWZAT?!

The inside story on how a local promoter got Fisher, the world’s most in-demand DJ, to play the first-ever gig at the Mount’s iconic Bay Oval cricket ground.

WORDS KARL PUSCHMANN

For the past five years, TradeMark Live co-director Toby Burrows has been driving past the Bay Oval International Cricket Ground dreaming about putting on a show there.

With its vast space and prime location right in the heart of Mount Maunganui, the venue’s untapped potential was obvious to Toby. Not only would a successful show there bring energy, pride and cultural vibrancy to the community, it’d also be a massive boost to the local economy, filling hotels, restaurants, bars and local businesses as music fans, primed for a good time, flooded into town.

But, he also knew an event at this scale would take years of planning and would involve jumping through multiple consent hoops, adhering to strict conditions, not least of which included safeguarding the Oval’s “sacred” cricket pitch, and finding a summer window within the ground’s international cricket schedule. And, perhaps most difficult of all, the crucial task of finding an artist worthy of headlining such an iconic event.

Fortunately, Toby and his business partner Mitch Lowe knew just the man for the job.

“We pitched the idea to Fisher,” he says. The award winning DJ and house music producer is one of dance music’s most in-demand artists and is also one of Toby’s most requested acts. As he says, “Fisher and this venue were a perfect recipe.”

Having brought Fisher over last summer for two massive shows, including a record-breaking gig at Auckland’s Victoria Park, Toby and Mitch had an in, but with Fisher’s global popularity, they knew that they’d still have to convince the superstar.

“He’s a surfer, so I sold him on Mount Maunganui being a beachside town in the middle of summer,” he smiles. “And, I told him it would be the first time that this venue's ever been used for a large-scale concert, so it'd be a really iconic play that would go down in the history books.”

Even with the compelling sales pitch, Fisher made them sweat for an answer. “He sat with it for about four months,” Toby laughs, remembering the nervous wait. “But when he came back to us, he was really fired up about it. We definitely popped the champagne when he confirmed. We knew that when we announced it, it would get a massive response, and it has. It’s had a crazy, crazy response.”

Toby says they’re planning for a record-breaking 25,000-30,000 people at the show and is promising that it’ll be a big night.

“The production is so far beyond anything that's been done in New Zealand before,” Toby says. “Last year was big at Victoria Park. This is looking at three to five times bigger than that. With DJs, there’s a bit of a production arms race as to who can outdo each other. They're always trying to have the craziest show in the world. I think Fisher’s team have really outdone themselves with the design of this one. It's going to be pretty impressive.”

To mark the occasion and make a day of it, the gates will open in the afternoon. You can expect a festival atmosphere, with Toby saying there’ll be several support acts warming up the crowd and performing before Fisher takes the stage, to bring the event to a triumphant close.

“To do this dream idea in our hometown is really special,” Toby says. “Culturally, having something so cool in your city gives it an energy that makes it a desirable place to live. And even if there's no other show that ever happens at Bay Oval, this will be remembered forever.”

Fisher plays Bay Oval, Saturday, January 31.

For tickets, visit trademarklive.co.nz