Summer radiance

Adapt your self-care with the hottest new season essentials.

Real men moisturise

Men’s skin is typically a lot thicker, tougher and more oily than women’s, creating a need for specific skincare. The brand new range from Flint targets common skin concerns men face including sensitivity from shaving, uneven skin texture, and signs of ageing. With a focus on both effectiveness and affordability, it’s the perfect opportunity to dip your toe into self-care, guys. From RRP$35. FLINTSKINCARE.COM

Eye spy

Going beyond the call of duty is the new Lash Boost Tubing Mascara from xoBeauty. Infused with growth serum for longer, nourished lashes, this mascara offers a defined look by encapsulating each lash in tiny tubes. For even more reason to be excited, included is an adjustable wand to target different areas of your lashes more effectively. RRP$38.99.

XOBEAUTYSHOP.COM

Honey trap

As a natural extension to their stunning sculptural range, RAAIE's new Golden Nectar Mānuka Honey Enzyme Cleanser works harmoniously with their other products as the first, and most essential step, in your skincare routine. With smoothing fruit enzymes and nourishing Mānuka honey it also doubles as a treatment mask, meaning less waste and less packaging from this conscious-consumption brand. RRP$97.

RAAIE.CO.NZ

Blurred lines

Combining skincare, sun protection and makeup is Aleph’s latest clean beauty innovation: Smoothing Skin Tint SPF/20. Like a real life skin filter, plant-actives work behind the scenes to smooth, the sheer tint blurs the appearance of imperfections, and SPF protects. Apply between moisturising and foundation and ditch the need for additional serums and sunblock. RRP$92. ALEPHBEAUTY.COM

Neck minute

The neck can be overlooked when applying moisturiser, serums and sunblock, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the first places that signs of ageing appear. Target crepe-like, sagging skin with BOOST LAB’s award winning Edelweiss Neck Firming Serum that visibly improves skin elasticity and firmness, thanks to the potent benefits of Tef Seed Extract. RRP$44.95.

BOOSTLABCO.COM

All that glitters

Adorn yourself for the next special occasion or event with Question Beauty’s super fun makeup range. For a subtle look, apply a touch of sparkling mascara to lash ends, or wow them with holographic eyeshadow and adhesive gems. Getting glam just got exciting! From RRP$10.

QUESTIONBEAUTY.COM

Future focused

Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic introduces Veloce: The revolutionary light treatment transforming skincare with fewer sessions and remarkable results.

photo SALINA GALVAN

As someone who’s been in the skincare industry for years, I’ve seen countless treatments come and go – but nothing has excited skincare professionals quite like Veloce.

Since introducing this Intense Pulsed Dual Light (IPDL) laser treatment, I’ve seen an enthusiastic response. Many have been impressed by the results they’re achieving, often after fewer sessions than expected.

What sets Veloce apart is its versatility and precision. The treatment can address a wide range of skin concerns with impressive effectiveness from stubborn pigmentation and broken capillaries to generalised redness, photo rejuvenation, fine lines, deeper wrinkles, acne scarring, and even hair removal.

It can be used on various parts of the body, including the face, neck, stomach, arms and legs. Veloce’s dual lamp system produces high-speed light pulses that penetrate deep into the skin, stimulating the body’s natural rejuvenation processes.

Unlike other lasers that might focus primarily on skin tone and texture, Veloce offers a more holistic solution by combining multi-wavelengths to address a broad range of indications. This advanced IPDL technology allows for a comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation.

One of the most exciting features of Veloce is the N-Tight treatment. This procedure triggers contraction and remodeling of collagen, resulting in a significant tightening effect that’s immediately noticeable and continues to improve over time. It's a game-changer for those concerned about skin laxity.

It also delivers results without requiring a lot of downtime. Thanks to its cooling system, most clients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment. The duration of each session typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treated area and the specific concerns being addressed.

After treatment, clients may experience some redness, but this usually subsides within a few hours. While visible results can often be seen after just one treatment, the number of sessions needed varies from person to person.

Whether you’re battling the signs of ageing, struggling with pigmentation, or simply want to give your skin a radiant boost, Veloce offers a tailored solution that delivers real and efficient results.

For even more impressive results, double up with the Ultra MD for better skin rejuvenation.

CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ

Grey expectations

Ready to go au naturel? Samantha Henry of Shine Hair and Studio May shares her top tips for going gorgeously grey.

photos SALINA GALVAN + SUPPLIED

Samantha Henry.

The mirror doesn't lie – those silvery strands are multiplying faster than you can say "salon appointment". But before you reach for the bottle (of hair colour, that is), let's chat about embracing the grey with style and confidence.

First things first: emotional preparedness. Are you ready to rock the silver vixen look? Many women find inspiration in others who've made the leap, so start scrolling those #silverandfree hashtags for a confidence boost. After all, why should men have all the fun as "silver foxes"?

Transitioning to your natural grey can take anywhere from one to three years, depending on your hair length. The first few months can be the trickiest, as you'll notice the demarcation line where your coloured hair meets the new growth. But don’t worry – there are clever ways to blend the old with the new.

One option is to switch from all-over colour to highlights or lowlights. This allows your natural hair to peek through while maintaining some bounce and texture.

Another route is to swap permanent colour for semi-permanent, which covers up to 50 percent of grey and blends up to 70 percent (using Wella Colour), giving your overall look a softer appearance.

For the adventurous, consider a balayage or ombré service to create a gradual transition from roots to ends.

Regular trims are your best friend during this journey. They'll help remove any lingering coloured ends and keep your hair looking fresh as it grows out.

Treat yourself to nourishing conditioning masks to keep your tresses hydrated and prevent breakage.

Lastly, if you do choose to let your grey shine, know you're in good company. From A-list celebs to your next-door neighbour, more women are ditching the colour and rocking their natural grey.

It's not about giving up; it's about owning your look and redefining beauty standards. With a bit of patience and the right attitude, you'll be turning heads for all the right reasons.

Who knows – you might even inspire others to embrace their own silver lining.

SHINEHAIRCO.CO.NZ | STUDIOMAY.CO.NZ

Face the future

Plastic surgeons, Dr Adam Bialostocki and Dr Brandon Adams from Da Vinci Clinic, talk to UNO about the latest technology in facial skin tightening. The best part? You don’t need to go near an operating room.

photos ALEX CAIRNS

Inspired by the ideals of Leonardo da Vinci's visionary spirit, which revolutionised aesthetics and science centuries ago, the Da Vinci Clinic is continuing this legacy of innovation, with cutting-edge beauty solutions that are transforming the landscape of appearance medicine.

In the world of aesthetic treatments, new technology is making waves – or rather, Sofwaves. This non-invasive procedure offers the latest high-tech method of facial rejuvenation, and a painless alternative to traditional facelifts. 

While ultrasound technology isn't entirely new to New Zealand's aesthetic treatments, Sofwave uses high-frequency ultrasound to target the skin's deeper layers with precision. What sets Sofwave apart is its ability to restore youthful elastin content in the skin, a feat unmatched by existing technologies in the country. 

And, unlike light-based treatments that rely on specific pigments in the skin to absorb energy, Sofwave's ultrasound technology doesn't depend on skin colour. This means it can safely and consistently treat a wide range of skin tones. From very fair to very dark, it results in noticeable improvements in skin firmness, reducing wrinkles and fine lines while providing a subtle lifting effect. 

The treatment is quick, comfortable, and requires no downtime, making it an attractive alternative to surgery.

Two of Da Vinci Clinic’s plastic surgeons, Adam Bialostocki and Brandon Adams, share their insights on why Sofwave is reshaping the field of aesthetic medicine in New Zealand.

UNO: What is Sofwave?
Adam: Sofwave is a new clinic-based technology utilising ultrasound, which will provide lifting and tightening of facial skin. It is not invasive and does not require any anaesthetic. It is FDA approved for treatment of the neck, face, around the eyelids and the forehead. 

UNO: What does it achieve?
Brandon: The standout feature for Sofwave is to increase the elastin component in your skin. No other technology can do that. Restoring youthful elastin content in skin greatly improves skin laxity, so you will expect to see less wrinkles and lines, with a lifting effect of your facial and neck tissues. In addition, the treatment will induce Hyaluronic acid formation, which is an essential dermal component responsible for a youthful skin appearance. i.e. a 'filling' effect is gained.

UNO: Who would benefit from using it?
Brandon: If you have signs of early facial ageing in your neck, cheek, eyelids or forehead, then Sofwave may be good option for you. Because the mechanism of action is on the dermal layer of the skin, the thinner skin of advanced age would have less of a result. Sofwave can also be used in addition to facial rejuvenation surgery to improve skin quality before or after structural surgery. There are no limitations on age, sex, weight or skin type.

UNO: What are the risks?
Adam: Not many! The results will vary from one person to the next, so it's best to set expectations realistically. There may be a few sites of treatment that are less comfortable than others: A small 'pinching' sensation may be felt, and we use a cold air jet to help with reduction of any discomfort. Sofwave is unique in that it is safe for use on all skin tones without risk of scarring or pigment changes.

UNO: Why would you choose this over other similar treatments?
Brandon: Because it is the only FDA-approved technology that increases Elastin, it doesn’t have any competitors. Sofwave is also a very comfortable procedure with rapid recovery compared to laser, thermage or HIFU. This may be an ideal treatment for someone not yet a candidate to undertake a surgical facelift to address facial ageing.

UNO: What does the procedure involve?
Adam: This is a clinic-based procedure, and it takes about an hour to do a full-face. A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area and then pulses of energy are delivered to the skin using a handpiece that is applied onto the skin. There is an immediate visible change, but the full effect of Sofwave is noticed between 3-6 months later as the skin tightens, lifts and becomes more elastic.

UNO: Do you need to do anything to prep the skin beforehand?
Brandon: No. You just need to be sure not to have any active skin infections, such as acne pimples. It’s best to avoid taking any anti-inflammatory medications, before or after the treatment. After the treatment you can exercise, go back to work or out
to socialise without any downtime.

UNO: What is the cost and how often should you be having it?
Adam: The treatment is a one off. Once the skin has been tightened nothing further needs to be done, although we all keep ageing and gravity continues to take its effect, so an annual top-up may be considered. You can choose to treat specific areas, such as the forehead and the area around your eyes, or to undertake a full-face treatment. Prices start at $1,500 for specific areas, with a full face and neck treatment costing $4,500. 

davinciclinic.cto.nz

Empowering ink

For the thousands of Kiwis facing the overwhelming effects
of cancer, Stacey Peake’s cosmetic tattoo studio, nestled in the heart of Mount Maunganui, offers women the chance to reclaim their confidence in the wake of New Zealand’s leading cause of death. 

words Karen Clarkson | photos Salina Galvan

Stacey Peake

As Stacey prepares for her day in her studio, Beautifully Enhanced, a welcoming, light-filled sanctuary, she reflects on her journey from running a nail bar in Te Puke straight out of high school, to her newfound passion for tattooing lips, brows and areolas. “From the start, I have always loved to help give women a sense of confidence, to feel good in their bodies,” Stacey shares.

At the age of 19, Stacey left the salon in Te Puke and headed for England, polishing her skills as a nail technician at Selfridges London and later working front-of-house at Michael Van Clarke’s award-winning hair salon. 

After 16 years in the financial industry – from branch manager through to a successful career as a wealth coach for one of Australia’s leading banks – she welcomed twin boys, and chose to return to the world of beauty, training as a cosmetic tattooist and running a successful studio in the Gold Coast.

When Stacey returned to the Bay of Plenty in 2020, she was increasingly surrounded by family and friends navigating the challenges of cancer. Knowing she could make a difference to people suffering hair loss due to sickness, cancer treatments or alopecia, she started tattooing brows at a reduced price, before discovering her clients could receive a subsidy to get the service at no cost. 

For many of Stacey’s clients, coming to her studio is a sensitive step in
their recovery journey. Her work is transformative, but the results go far beyond the physical, offering a renewed sense of emotional benefits to her clients. “When you lose your brows or your breasts, you lose part of your identity. It can impact your confidence, your sense of self,” she says. 

Hearing more and more stories and the impacts of her brow work on her clients, inspired Stacey to gain certification to tattoo areolas for those women who have had reconstruction surgery or mastectomies due to treatment. “Working on intimate areas like the areolas is a highly delicate practice that requires a deep level of skill, combined with empathy.”

Stacey’s approach combines artistry with precision, spending up to four hours carefully recreating personalised, natural areolas. Using multiple pigments and needle techniques, she customises each tattoo to match skin tones and textures, bringing depth and realism to achieve a natural result. “Areola tattooing isn’t just about applying colour. It’s about mimicking the natural contours and textures – like Montgomery glands and constriction wrinkles – that give realism to the areola.” 

One of Stacey’s most memorable experiences is with a close friend diagnosed with cancer. “We tattooed her brows right before she began treatment,” Stacey recalls. “When she started to lose her hair, she was incredibly grateful to still have her eyebrows. It was a small thing, but it meant the world to her.” Kate, another client shared, “Stacey is not just an artist; she’s a friend and a confidante. She listened to my story with such empathy, and the results were life-changing. I left with a new sense
of self, and I am forever grateful.” 

With a deep understanding of the emotional and physical journey her clients are on, Stacey is acutely aware of the sensitive nature of the procedures. Before any treatment, she ensures that her clients have clearance from their oncologists and that sufficient time has passed for scars to heal. “I hope to create a safe space where my clients feel seen, valued, and supported. I spend a lot of time listening to their stories, understanding what they’re hoping to achieve. It’s a collaborative and deeply personal experience,” she explains. 

Through her work, she has become an advocate for open conversations around hair loss and body image, breaking down the stigma that can come with these experiences as well as supporting cancer charities within the community, regularly donating her services for fundraising events. “For many families the work that I do is not always financially possible, so as well as the subsidies available for eyebrow tattooing, my areola tattooing services are heavily discounted. I also offer a free non-laser service for removal of radiation dot tattoos – gently lifting pigment to the surface versus pushing pigment into the skin where it can get into lymph nodes.”

For Stacey, the impacts of her work are written in the smiles, the hugs, and the renewed confidence of her clients. “Women enter the studio with feelings of vulnerability, yet leave with a renewed sense of empowerment and a reminder of their own beauty. Being able to offer a solution that helps someone feel complete again; it’s incredibly meaningful.” 

beautifullyenhanced.co.nz

Hormone hacker

UNO editor Hayley Barnett sits down with leading expert Dr Linda Dear to unpack menopause’s grey zone of symptoms, the buffet of options beyond HRT, and why midlife's uninvited guest is more frenemy than foe.

It’s 3am on a Thursday morning. I’ve been lying here for the past hour tossing and turning, trying desperately to get back to sleep. What better time than now, I think, to write about my perimenopause woes?

I’ve had the same problem every day for the past week and it’s probably linked to the amount of sugar and caffeine I’ve been consuming as a solution to stay awake during the day. It’s a vicious cycle and, if I’m being honest, has become more of a lifestyle linked to my own vicious cycle, of the menstrual kind.

But, according to Dr Linda Dear, it doesn’t have to be this way. About a year ago, UNO interviewed Linda about the issue of menopause, and women still talk to me about it one year on. Linda is one of the country’s leading menopause experts who just happens to reside in Tauranga and runs her business, Menodoctor, from the Bay. Women come to her from all over New Zealand begging for help with symptoms that are increasingly affecting their professional and personal lives. 

“Most women who come to me are having symptoms of perimenopause and it’s impacting them either at home or at work or both,” says Linda. “A lot of the time, I’m just confirming what they already know − that it’s hormone related. But it can be such a grey zone and nobody’s really sure, including sometimes their own GP. They want to know they're not going mad or that they’re not ill or sick.”

I sit down with Linda to discuss my symptoms and what might help. I had completed a questionnaire before arriving for our appointment. Hot flushes? No. Sleep problems. Yes. Frequent urination. Yes. Night sweats. Yes. It dawns on me that waking drenched in sweat during a five-degree winter’s night probably isn’t normal. 

All these symptoms, though ‘not normal’, are actually very normal for a woman my age and beyond − 40 plus. But again, says Linda, they don’t have to be.

In my case, the contraceptive pill would help with PMS problems, she says, but so would HRT – and actually HRT comes with a lower risk of blood clots and other side effects, as it uses body identical lower dose estrogen. It also helps with insomnia. Sold.

But Linda is quick to point out that HRT is not the only option – and not always the right answer for every woman. Though she sings HRT’s praises, Linda describes herself as more holistic than many doctors in this area. She’s not against HRT and says for some women it’s the only thing that will help. But she also likes to offer natural alternatives.

“There are many things you can try,” she explains. “I like to offer what I call ‘the menopause buffet’. Women should be introduced to the whole table of treatments, and there are many that you can mix and match − and others that you can’t. But everything is optional, even the buffet itself. You don’t need to do anything if you don’t feel like it. You can just sit and enjoy the show if you prefer.”

The options include everything, from herbal supplements, like St John’s Wort, through to the contraceptive pill and SSRIs (antidepressants). 

“Lifestyle changes like adding weights sessions to your workout routine make a huge difference for some people,” says Linda. “Or just increasing protein in the diet − that can completely change everything.”

After asking me to take a blood test, Linda prescribes me some HRT with detailed instructions for patches and progesterone pills and suggests buying some iron tablets and ashwagandha for my sleep. 

While I’m grateful for the help, I wonder about those who can’t pinpoint certain times in the month, but who have similar symptoms. How can you tell if it’s perimenopause and not just dealing with life’s demands, I ask? Let’s face it, our forties are a very demanding time. We’re often dealing with kids, mortgages, careers, relationships, not to mention the possibility of World War III, climate change, the government, that weird rash Google tells you is 

probably fatal? Surely, the doom scrolling has something to do with our highly anxious states and lack of sleep. 

“We do need to be careful about blaming perimenopause for everything,” says Linda. “That’s why I don’t want to become an HRT factory. I also don’t want to deny anyone of that either, since we’ve gone far too long without it. We have to go through the symptoms and come up with a plan together. It’s about trial and error, finding out what helps and what doesn’t.”

We talk about my sleep issues and how they’re much worse if I drink even just one glass of wine.

“She loves to ruin our fun,” says Linda, who talks about perimenopause in the third person, referring to this time in a woman’s life as a friend, or more so, a frenemy. ‘She’ apparently is not a fan of alcohol, and neither is Linda. She explains the dangers of alcohol and its link to many different illnesses, one of which is breast cancer. It’s ironic then that it was only a decade or so ago that women were fearful of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for its links to breast cancer.

“We think the breast cancer risk, which is very small – around an extra eight cases out of 10,000 women who take it – only starts after a woman has been taking HRT for at least five years. So taking HRT for less than five years likely carries no risk at all. But taking it for five years or longer means we do have to factor in a small risk of breast cancer. But this needs to balanced against the health benefits that HRT can bring, such as reducing heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes. Research has also shown that when you start HRT before you turn 60, this leads to a longer lifespan. So these are pretty big benefits to think about.”

Despite there being a range of treatments, potions and lotions, and lifestyle suggestions, Linda is quick to point out that this time shouldn’t necessarily be looked upon as a negative.

“She’s not all bad,” Linda says. “Though there are some negative sides, we also need to see some good in this phase, as it’s a time of growth. A lot of women get through this and become a better version of themselves eventually − they feel more like themselves than they ever have. They can feel stronger and more empowered.”

As a woman, whether you decide to do something about perimenopause, or just ride the wave, there is definitely one thing to look forward to.

“Our periods stop!” smiles Linda. “We all have to admit the idea of that is quite nice.” 

Dr Linda Dear is UNO’s new menopause expert.
Look out for her column in the next issue.

Telltale signs you might be in perimenopause:

• Irregular or missed periods

• Hot flushes

• Sleep disturbances

• Memory and cognition issues

• Vaginal atrophy

• Mood swings

• Decreased sex drive

• Weight gain

• Hair, skin and nail changes

• Frequent urination

• Changing cholesterol levels

The shape of you

Ready to find your perfect hairstyle? Here’s how to choose cuts that flatter your face shape.

PHOTO Salina Galvan

Before heading to the salon for your favourite celebrity’s haircut, take a moment to consider which style will suit you best. Understanding your face shape can make a world of difference to which hairstyle works for you – and help you avoid that dreaded post-fringe regret. If you’re unsure about your face shape, grab an eyebrow pencil – or similar – that wipes off easily, trace the outline of your face in the bathroom mirror, step back, and voilà!

Square = Minimal cheekbones, wide chin, square jawline.

Round = Curved edges, round chin, full cheekbones.

Heart = more length than width, wide forehead, narrow jawline.

Oval = pronounced cheekbones, soft curved chin, narrow jawline.

Square Shape

Square

Nice and soft chin-to-collarbone layers will soften a strong jaw. A side parting with side-swept bangs will minimise a wide forehead. If your hair is wavy or curly, a middle parting with a few short layers that fall over your forehead and softly around your face work well. Any length that ends at the jawline is going to emphasise the width of your face.

Round Shape

Round

A blunt straight across fringe will enhance your cheekbones while a deep side parting will emphasise your bone structure. A shoulder-dusting length for straight hair is most flattering, or wavy hair can be slightly longer to mid-back. Consider long layers as these elongate your face shape.

Heart Shape

Heart

Thinking of going short? Heart-shaped faces are perfect for the pixie cut. Curly wavy hair? To balance the forehead width, encourage fullness around the shoulders with layers.

Oval Shape

Oval

Heavy shaping around the face with layers, starting just below the eyes will make your face look fuller. If hair is long, avoid all one length. 

SHINEHAIRCO.CO.NZ  |  STUDIOMAY.CO.NZ

Blank canvas

Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic explains the wonders of new-age laser technology with the introduction of the Ultra MD.

PHOTO  Salina Galvan

Clients often ask, what is one thing I can do to improve my skin? The most obvious is sunblock. Sun protection is the number one thing you must do. But, of course, I can never give an answer for just one treatment.

There are so many skincare options out there today, with clinics promising all sorts of treatments to turn back the clock. Good skin is a result of a combination of those treatments, and taking care of it is much like going to the gym. Consistency over a long period of time is the only way you really see results.  

Starting with active skincare will make a difference, but it will take time. For a quicker fix, in-clinic needling and peels will produce fast results, but laser treatments will work even faster.

No one wants pain or downtime and, finally, the laser gods have listened. The recent release of the amazing Ultra MD laser means there’s no pain (with numbing cream applied prior, you could almost fall asleep), skin is only a little flushed when you leave, and it feels a bit like fine sandpaper for about a week. All much more manageable than the old laser treatments. Prior to machines like Ultra, conventional resurfacing lasers would cause pain with days or weeks of downtime to recover. 

With Ultra, when the old skin sheds, the new layer is much brighter, smoother and fresher, and after a course of three to six treatments, you will have less pigment, sun damage and fine lines.  

The way it works is that it creates tiny thermal zones in the skin, prompting the body to quickly generate new tissue. It increases permeability with minimal mechanical disruption to the outermost layer of skin and also treats mild to moderate cases of actinic keratosis, benign pigmented lesions, lentigos, and freckles across the face, neck and décolletage.

A roller system is used, gently gliding over the skin, which takes as little as five minutes to 20 minutes, depending on the surface area and produces instant results for pigment and sun damage, tone and texture.

The Ultra can be combined with other machines as well to get incredible results. Using the Secret RF and Ultra MD for a double whammy treatment at one time can cause the most amazing skin rejuvenation. And combining the IPL Veloce and the Ultra MD treats pigmentation at a deeper level. 

Unlike other laser treatments, the Ultra can be used on any skin type at any time of year. 

There’s nothing else quite like it being used in clinics at the moment. So, when anyone asks me what is the number one treatment that will make a difference, right now I would say Ultra MD is the one. 

cashmoreclinic.co.nz

Before

After

Serenity in sand

From the depths of personal turmoil to creating a career through artistic expression, Kenrick Smith’s journey is a testament to the healing powers of nature and mindfulness. UNO talks to him about discovering sand art, working for Ed Sheeran and his passion for improving our country’s sobering statistics on mental health. 

WORDS Karen Clarkson  |  PHOTOS Quinn O’Connell

On a quiet Wednesday morning at home in Pāpāmoa, mental health coach and father of two, Kenrick Smith, tunes in to the soothing sound of the ocean and focuses on his breath during his morning meditation. A newfound daily ritual he has come to rely on. But life hasn’t always been this zen. 

In 2020, while living on a lifestyle property in the Kaimai Ranges with his artist-wife Jasmine and new baby, Kenrick’s world was cut off overnight
due to a global pandemic. His successful wedding photography business ground to a halt due to lockdowns and he felt isolated, anxious and navigating personal turmoil. “I had a recent back injury, was recently diagnosed with ADHD and my marriage was struggling – I was in a bad place,” he reflects candidly. “Looking back now, I was on the edge of a major depressive episode.”

On a family trip to the beach during lockdown, he felt inspired by the wide open spaces of his Hawkes Bay rural childhood, found a stick and began drawing. A basic circular design with a piece of driftwood, soon evolved into regular trips to the beach to create large-scale mandalas, using a variety of tools to reflect textures, patterns and shapes in nature. “Sand art became my sanctuary," he shares. “It was where I found peace.”

Over the next year, while attending marriage counselling and researching his own neurodiversity, Kenrick also discovered the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. He started sitting on the sand for five minutes, focussing on the sound of the waves, the feel of the sunshine, listening to the birds, and the wind on his face. “Then I would head to the sand and design. The difference was amazing.”

What started as personal catharsis soon blossomed into a business with a goal to “help others feel this way.” From needing to take annual leave to run his first workshops, Rake Healing now hosts regular corporate groups, schools and private classes – helping hundreds of adults and children to experience the benefits of time reconnecting with nature, exploring your creativity and using sand as your canvas.

He says the change in clear shift in wellbeing from the beginning of a two-hour workshop to the end, still surprises him. “From CEO’s to five-year-olds, getting out in nature and creating something artistic has a profound positive effect for our brains and bodies. For some people meditation and mindfulness can be a scary, unknown thing. In reality, it is about being aware of your surroundings; it’s about putting down your phone and watching your kids at the playground; going for a walk at the beach and listening to the sounds around you, or doing something creative to allow you to focus on the present.”

A phone call from a Warner Music spokesperson last year, culminated in Kenrick’s first international commission – a large sand-art design of a Sycamore tree, designed on the Mount main beach near Moturiki Island. Kenrick was chosen alongside eight other international sand artists to create a design to represent a song on Ed Sheeran’s album Subtract. “Sycamore was chosen for New Zealand; it is a sombre track with heartfelt lyrics of struggle and loss so I felt like it was the perfect collaboration,” explains Kenrick.

Through this and other collaborations with national and international brands and causes, Rake Healing has enabled more conversations around mental health and fuelled a desire for Kenrick to support more New Zealanders navigating mental health challenges. 

Yarns With Rick, is his latest venture into mental health coaching and support, where Kenrick channels his experiences into guiding others through life’s tumultuous seas. “Like many Kiwis, depression and anxiety wasn’t discussed in my family, school or community growing up. When you’re in a dark place, it’s critical to let others know what you are going through, and connect with others – both friends and professionals who have been through what you are.”

“I see Yarns With Rick as a compass,” he explains, “to help individuals navigate their inner landscapes and find their true north.” Through retreats, workshops, and online resources, he aims to dismantle stigmas around mental health and empower individuals and communities with practical tools for resilience and self-compassion.

With a passion to help neurodiverse youth and adults thrive in life and be all they can be, Kenrick runs monthly meet-ups for men, regular adventures in nature for guys and girls and is about to launch a series of online courses. 

“We need to normalise conversations about mental health,” he urges, “and provide practical tools for facing painful experiences. Nature provides a wonderful environment to allow people to discover a pathway back to themselves. For me, it was everything I needed when I needed it. 

From a young Dad, struggling with his own mental health, to getting outside and soaking up the healing power of nature, Kenrick’s goal is to empower more New Zealanders to access the tools they need to harness mindfulness, resilience and self-compassion, so we can all thrive as people, parents and communities. 

Kenrick’s top tips for mental health: 

Get into nature 

Nature is so calming for the body and mind. Put your phone away and walk to the beach, go to a park or walk around the block. Moving your body increases blood flow and reduces stress, so often challenges can be easier to deal with after a good walk. 

Acknowledge your emotions 

Often we are trying to avoid the negative emotions in our body. If you can actually acknowledge what you are feeling, to yourself outloud, in a journal or to a friend – often clarity, peace and perspective follows.

Turn the problem around 

Now you’ve acknowledged what’s going on, turn it around. Taking a previously negative emotion or experience and turning it around can help hugely. If you’re feeling worried, what could be the opposite of those feelings? Concerned can also feel calm, anxious might feel confident and scared could feel secure. 

Body in balance

Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa is the perfect place to learn the incredible benefits of calming your mind and healing your body.

Words Hayley Barnett

“Find your dimmer switch,” our mindfulness teacher murmurs soothingly.

Meditation expert and aromatherapist Helena Keenan’s constant calm demeanor is a result of 30 years of meditation practice at some of the Pacific’s most luxurious wellness centres. Right now I’m sitting in the newly refurbished Mahoney Wellness Room at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa for their Mindful Moments Retreat in the hopes that some of that calmness will rub off on my frazzled, stressed-to-the-hilt self. But finding my inner dimmer switch isn’t something that comes naturally. In fact, at this point, I’m not even sure I have one.

For the past seven years Helena has been guiding visitors through two-day retreats to reset their intentions and commitment to wellness – both mentally and physically – to come away feeling calm, inspired and recharged. Over two days we will bathe in geothermal mineral waters, practise yoga, walk in nature, undergo spa therapies, learn about nutrition and meditate our troubles away. It’s the kind of thing a tired mother can usually only dream of.

When I drag myself in on the first day after a terrible night’s sleep I’m met with the friendly, energetic yoga teacher, Nadine Prinsloo. She introduces the group to simple movements designed to stretch and relax our bodies after a soak in the world-famous geothermal spa. She gives us a rundown on the history of yoga, why we should do it, and what sort of benefits we'll receive from stretching our bodies at least three times a week. We learn how to breathe with our stomachs and how breathing in through one nostril and out the other will instantly calm your nervous system. Nadine has gone through her fair share of body trauma over the years, which is how she got into yoga in the first place, and educates us on how to listen to your body. “If you listen to the body when it whispers, you won’t have to listen to it when it shouts,” she explains wisely. 

Though the yoga session wasn’t at all strenuous, the group had certainly worked up an appetite. Which was just as well considering the enormous lunch laid out for us. The delicious, healthy and balanced meal set us up for our silent trek through Rotorua’s Redwoods forest. 

After an hour of fresh air we were back in time for our talk on maintaining a healthy gut, led by resident naturopath, Jessica Tumata-Lane. The miracles that can happen just by making subtle changes to your diet are not only proven by science, says Jess, but also in the mental clarity and the body’s energy, which you will notice almost immediately. I almost feel bad for the gelato we’ve just consumed from the spa café beforehand.

The next day we’re led directly to the spa for what I thought would be some relaxing R&R. This time, we’re on the retreat side, which of course includes a cold plunge pool. With Nadine’s words ringing in our ears about listening to your body before it shouts, we instead plunge forth and hold ourselves under for what seems like an eternity but is really just 30 seconds. We then run straight into the now-prickly 40-degree Celcius pool to warm up. Apparently this is good for you. 

It’s just as well that our spa treatment is up next. I’ve chosen the spa’s signature Himalayan Salt Polish and Herbal Oil Massage, a treat for my tight muscles and dry winter skin. Then it’s straight into meditation with Helena, where I nearly fall asleep in the middle of the day. This has never happened to me before. I can barely sleep at night.

Our second delicious lunch brings me back to earth, before venturing out for a walk around the geothermal springs of Lake Rotorua. We’re back in time for some blueberry lemon cake with coconut yoghurt before heading home, our gift bags filled to the brim with lotions and potions to keep our skin looking and feeling its best. I can’t think of a better way to rest and recharge, and I’m already planning my trip back to this geothermal healing centre of wellness. The next retreat goes ahead in July 2024 and I'm very tempted. 

What were my greatest takeaways, Helena asks? It’s not until I’m in the car heading home that I can think of this answer clearly. Always take the time to stop and recuperate, even if you don’t feel you need it. It’s not until you stop that you can really hear your body and mind shouting. That’s when you find your dimmer switch. 

polynesianspa.co.nz/mindful-moments-retreat/

Flawless finish

Get wedding-ready with Leanne Cashmore’s

ultimate bridal skin plan.

words HAYLEY BARNETT photos SALINA GALVAN

Weddings are a funny thing. For many brides, when the big day finally rolls around, even the calmest of demeanours has withered away and a main character is left in its place, hellbent on criticising everything around her, mainly herself. I’m not saying it’s right, just accurate.

This is where Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic comes in. “The last thing you want to worry about on the big day is your skin,” she says wisely. When I rock up to the clinic to ask what she suggests I have done, a mere month out from my wedding, she looks sympathetic. “You should have come to me over a year ago.”

Great. So what can you do just weeks away from your nuptials, to ensure your skin looks 10 times younger and more rejuvenated than ever, even after the hen’s party? “There’s a few elements you want to focus on,” she replies. “How you would like your skin to look on the day, how you want your makeup to sit, and where your skin is starting from.” Then she analysed my maturing skin and made some suggestions. Behold, 40-something brides! Here is your ultimate bridal beauty plan.

Photo Finish

This V2 beauty booster is a combination of hyaluronic acid and Botox which is injected into the superficial layers of your skin to smooth fine lines and minimise the appearance of pores. While it’s not the most relaxing treatment by any stretch of the imagination (the stress ball Leanne passed to me apologetically before we’d even started the treatment really had its work cut out for it), in just a couple of weeks I could already see a huge difference in the appearance of my skin. And on my wedding day, when a friend shot me a dirty look while getting ready, asking, “Why don’t you have any wrinkles?”, I knew it was all worth it.

The best part is that it lasts up to three months. Small lumps can form after the treatment, but are typically gone by the next day, along with any bruising. Admittedly, I did have a few tiny bruises pop up around my face, but I can say, wholeheartedly, that a few tiny bruises are a small price to pay for photo-ready skin.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is the miracle treatment

that turns your skin into a smooth canvas, ensuring makeup sits and stays for much longer than it normally would. It involves removing dead skin and that peachy fuzz, or hair, that covers your face in its annoying, wispy sort of way. This is done using a special surgical-grade blade, resulting in a refined, glowing appearance. Typically you would have this done just one day before the wedding, to get the full effects.

HYDRAFACIAL

In addition to the dermaplaning, Leanne suggests having a hydrafacial treatment the day before the nuptials. This is a non-invasive treatment designed to promote healthy skin and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated, giving you a healthy glow for your big day.

A little redness and tingling goes down in a couple of hours. This treatment is just the relaxing activity you need right before the wedding and, by including a booster and LED treatment, your skin will be primed and ready to party.

Of course, these are the last-minute options. Ideally, what you would normally do in the case of a wedding is lock in a skin membership (like a gym membership) at least a year prior to your nuptials, giving you monthly treatments to ensure your skin is in tip-top condition.

Cashmoreclinic.co.nz

A cut above the rest

Meet Sam Henry, UNO’s new haircare expert, here to answer all your burning questions.

Words Hayley Barnett  |  Photos Salina Galvan

Sam Henry knows a thing or two about hair. She’s been in the hairdressing biz for more than 25 years, owns Shine Hair Co in Maungatapu and has just recently opened her gorgeous new salon, Studio May, in Ōmokoroa. 

Aimed at the discerning client who likes to keep on top of their hair game when it comes to style and care, Sam says Studio May aims to provide cutting-edge service in a relaxed, modern environment.

Here, Sam sits down with UNO to provide the answers to all those questions you’ve been dying to ask.

UNO: What’s the best way to restore damaged hair?

Sam: Our hair gets a constant beating from the sun’s UV rays, as well as combing and brushing daily, not to mention colouring and the use of heated tools. It’s no wonder 91 percent of Kiwi women have damaged hair! Unlike skin, our hair cannot repair itself. When the outside layer loses its lipids (the natural protective layer) the cuticle (inside the hair) becomes more exposed, resulting in flyaways and fragile locks. This is sometimes why your colour/toner fades quickly. There's nothing left for the colour to hold on to. You need a product that rebuilds the bonds inside the cortex, along with Omega-9 on the outside, to recreate a protective barrier for the cuticle. This is where you see that healthy shine. Ultimate Repair by Wella Professional smoothes hair and reduces frizz for up to 72 hours.

Do you really need to shampoo twice?

Have you ever shampooed your hair and wondered why it’s not lathering
up much? The first shampoo removes surface dust, dirt, styling product
and sweat. The second shampoo gets right into your hair shaft and deeply cleanses, now that all the build-up has been removed. Always follow through with a conditioner. Squeeze out excess water and apply your conditioner to the length only. For best results, leave on for up to three minutes, then rinse. Remember, shampooing without conditioning is like cleansing your face without moisturising. It’s a no from me!

Why is it so important to use heat protection?

In a nutshell, if heat protection is not used, your colour can “shift”, meaning blonde hair will go brassy and grey hair will go yellow. The cuticle becomes damaged and any weak spots in your hair shaft will break. It doesn’t matter if you’re drying your hair straight from the shower or you’re just doing a touch-up with the straightener – heat protection should be used every time. Wella Luxe Oil Serum is great for medium to thick hair and can be used both to protect it and give it shine. For finer hair, Wella Thermal Image is a light spray, protecting hair from up to 220°C heat. For our blonde babes, the Wella Luxblonde Bi-Phase is
a violet-coloured spray which prevents brassiness, as violet counteracts yellow tones.

Does a cold water rinse really make your hair shinier?

Yes and no. The cold water will smooth down the cuticle of your hair, giving it a glossy, sleek look as opposed to a frizzy, flyaway, dull look. However, your hair has no living cells and doesn’t react to cold or heat. Use serums to hydrate and smooth the cuticle and be sure to gently dry hair with a towel rather than vigorously rubbing it. 

shinehairco.co.nz studiomay.co.nz

Sister act

Katie and Charlotte Mead are laser focused on their new venture together.

Words Hayley Barnett | Photos Jahl Marshall

Siblings Katie and Charlotte Mead have never been closer – in both spirit and proximity. Now the two have come together in business too, opening their first store together – The Cosmetic Clinic at Tauranga Crossing.

Having been in the beauty industry for 11 years, Katie’s expertise lies mainly in advanced skin and laser technologies. Katie had previously joined The Cosmetic Clinic as a manager in one of the Auckland clinics seven years ago – the first to open in New Zealand.

It wasn’t long before the beach life beckoned and her and partner, Derek, moved down to the Bay where Katie opened her first Cosmetic Clinic in Bayfair, then a second in Rotorua.

Two kids later, her sister, Charlotte, and partner Calvin, decided their children needed to be around their cousins. “After having my two babies 12 months apart, I needed my sister!” laughs Charlotte. “And as I knew Katie was about to embark on her parenthood journey, she would need me also. Cliché, but it does take a village.” So with two under twos, and partner in tow, Charlotte made the journey down to Tauranga.

Both Katie and Charlotte hail from London, England but have spent over half of their lives in New Zealand, both knowing they’d end up living near the other. Now business partners, the sisters are closer than ever.

Charlotte and Katie opened TCC Tauranga Crossing side by side less than six months ago.

“When the opportunity arose for us to make our way down here, we just wanted to be near Katie and Derek, so we made the jump before the business was a sure thing,” says Charlotte. “Since we moved down here I’ve been managing the Bayfair clinic for Katie after she had her first baby, and that's where I discovered my love for beauty. I would never consider myself a girly girl, but I love skin and cosmetic injectables. That’s how Katie and I realised it would work if we opened one together. And here we are!"

Offering treatments from Dysport (a European version of Botox) and fillers, to laser hair removal and pigmentation treatments and peels, TCC targets a wide range of concerns – aging seemingly their clients’ biggest concern of all. But it’s their safety and professionalism that the sisters are most proud of.

“It's really nice having registered nurses on site,” says Katie. “All of our technicians have at least a level four or five Beauty Therapy diploma. Generally speaking, all of our staff are familiar with working under pressure. And then our entire clinic is overseen by doctors. It's a really safe environment with a lot of protocols in place that we have to adhere to.” 

Charlotte pushes the importance of finding clinics with a strong safety ethos.

“These days anyone can work out of their garage with a laser machine, and it does happen. We're comfortable offering treatments that are advanced and can get results because everything's been tried and tested.”

The Cosmetic Clinic is an Australian company, whose hygiene and safety protocols are among the most stringent in Australasia. Before any treatment launches at the New Zealand clinics, there is a lengthy process of case studies and market research, to ensure each procedure is safely executed. 

“Our point of difference is that we don't sell anything that doesn't work,” says Charlotte. “Everything has an intention. So if it's pigmentation removal that you're
trying to achieve, or hair removal, all of the technology we use is tried and perfected before it's allowed on to the market. So you’re guaranteed a really great result if our clients remain committed.
We also love that our skincare range was created alongside our treatment menu to enhance the results of our treatments. Not to mention they are cruelty free and marine and vegan friendly."

Right now, the sisters are excited about where the industry is heading, with what they call “the clean girl aesthetic” trending across social media.

“The clean movement has got people thinking a bit more about their skin, realising they need to feed and hydrate and care for it,” says Katie. “We were in an era before that, where it was about covering up, whereas now it's about letting your natural skin come through. Of course, you have to take care of your skin if you're going to be comfortable doing that. I just hope it keeps going in that direction.” 

Thecosmeticclinic.co.nz

Tauranga Crossing

Invest in your skin

Cashmore Clinic’s
Leanne Cashmore reminds us that beautiful skin requires commitment
– not a miracle.

It surprises me how many people start their skin journey with botulinum toxin and dermal fillers. Often they want a quick fix, the easiest option, with instant results. If you’re willing to invest that money into injectables, you should be willing to invest it into your skin first. Your skin is an investment, not an expense.

There are so many devices, machines, facials and supplements available to enhance our appearance, which also help our botulinum toxin and fillers last longer and look better. Here are just a few that will get your skin in tip top shape.

SKIN PEN NEEDLING

People get put off this procedure as it involves needles, but the depth is controlled so as to not inflict pain that requires anaesthetic, but deep enough to stimulate collagen and elastin production. It's a slow burner requiring regular treatments to see the long-term results of a firmer, plumper and more hydrated appearance with minimised fine lines, pores and pigmentation. You can buy pre-purchased packages that make it inexpensive and with monthly treatments. 

RADIO FREQUENCY NEEDLING

Radio frequency needling is a medical grade needling experience where you get two treatments in one. Needling creates microscopic wounds in the skin which trigger collagen production. Radio frequency technology is emitted through the needles to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, triggering the skin's natural healing process (this treatment includes numbing cream). The heat has a tightening effect on the skin and can help acne by shrinking the sebaceous gland and reducing oil production in the skin. It’s an FDA-approved treatment and considered gently stimulating and minimally invasive.

FACIALS

The list is endless. These treatments are a relaxing, rejuvenating experience that takes an hour or less and does wonders for your skin.  

Dermaplaning: Removing the fine hair and dead skin cells to help your skin better absorb products, creating a radiant glow and ensuring flawless makeup.

Peels: These are amazing for gentle exfoliation and personally tailored to
suit your skin, whether it’s acne, pigmentation or just general dullness and lacklustre.

Hydrafacial: This amazing machine deep cleanses, exfoliates, and extracts impurities from pores with a painless gentle suction, hydrating the skin with intense moisturisers. The skin looks incredible afterwards, especially when combining treatments with dermaplaning, creating the perfect facial that is amazing before an event.

SUPPLEMENTS

Collagen powders have proved their worth, having a controversial history but recently backed with reinforcing evidence. During treatments, the addition of collagen supplements will aid the healing of the skin. For premium absorption, look for hydrolysed marine collagen, including extras like zinc, keratin, silica and vitamin C to offer more benefits. 

Great skin is in! It takes time and persistence; you will see results and prevent further damage by starting regular tailored treatments. 

Cashmoreclinic.co.nz

Healing hands

Achieving balance and harmony is the main aim at Tauranga’s new Thai Touch.

Words Nicky Adams / Photos Jahl Marshall

Massage has been increasingly incorporated into the mainstream for both physical and mental wellbeing – a holistic approach to wellness, it is undeniably beneficial. I’ve personally been very slow off the starting block – my last massage was in Fiji many years ago and a virtual pummelling left me too winded to ask the lovely lady to ease off the pressure with her very strong hands; I learned part of the process is communicating what works for you.

Booking into the new Thai Touch in Elizabeth Street was quite a different experience, though. From the outset it was consultative, and having opted for a relaxing massage (rather than the popular injury-orientated targeted therapy) I was quick, when asked, to say that my preference was gentle – very gentle – applied pressure. Arriving at the brand-new studio felt almost like a destination spa experience. High ceilings lend a sense of luxury, the décor is authentic without feeling kitsch, and the hush straight away makes you want to melt into your chair. Moving from reception to the treatment area in fresh new slippers, the sparkling cleanliness is apparent, with the rooms an ambient but adjustable temperature, furnished with fresh towels and sheets, and low-level background music. Wanna, my masseuse, was perfection – friendly but so respectful; I felt totally at ease in her company, bonded by a silence that was golden rather than awkward.

Speaking with the owners, Orasa and Nigel, my experience was exactly what they have set out to achieve across each of their three studios (Mount, Bethlehem, and the latest in Tauranga). Orasa herself trained in Thailand at a massage school that taught an art that is over 2000 years old. Steeped in history, Thai massage is characterised by its energizing and vigorous processes. Drawing on ancient practices, massage and herbs are traditionally used for healing by treating muscle problems while clearing energy blockages and restoring balance. Falling into two different camps, one style of Thai massage concentrates on circulation and pressure points – known as a yoga massage. The other variety incorporates herbs by using a compress (or hot herb ball). At Thai Touch the massages follow a standardised process, apart from with the therapeutic massage where the therapist can address specific needs.

Orasa and Nigel have aimed to incorporate many authentic customs into their studios – from the greeting with rehydrating lemon water, to the herbal tea served afterwards. As Nigel points out, “The element of ritual is a key part, even down to the silent prayer, hands together, said at the start by the therapist unbeknownst to the client.” The therapists themselves are all Thai; Orasa and Nigel travel to Orasa’s homeland to interview experienced therapists with multiple years of commercial experience that they feel will fit into their spa family. The community aspect of this is very strong, with both relatives in, and an emotional attachment to Thailand, Orasa and Nigel love that they get to bridge the gap between the two countries and cultures in a positive and constructive way. With a team of 70 (that will rise to 80 over summer) everyone from the 35-40 therapists to the housekeeping staff that make up the whole team, are able to send money back to help their families – many of whom live in rural Thailand.

With the new salon Nigel believes their previous experience has culminated in what I consider to be exceptional premises. I was particularly struck by the high hygiene levels – always a priority for them, post-pandemic these meet stringent standards. Health concerns are taken very seriously (hence the in-house housekeeping for laundry). Indeed, Nigel mentions Bethlehem and the Mount have sterile air going through the air conditioning unit, while in Elizabeth Street fresh air is continuously vented through the building.

Here at Thai Touch, Nigel notes, “Relax and the healing can happen.” The aim was to achieve “a seamless experience – from walking in the front door into a tranquil oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation, with the whole environment a backdrop to a sense of trust in a place that is going to take care of you and your whole being.” From beginning to end there is an air of timelessness – always efficient, but not hurried. Nigel, himself an artist, has incorporated an art gallery to the side of the reception area, which will become a place where people can simply extend their stay in what he sees as a “conversational space.”

It is this strong alignment with the essence of Thai culture that makes the whole process feel so beautifully authentic, to the point where the treatments, in all their wonderful relaxing glory, feel a part of a wider holistic experience. 

thaitouch.co.nz

A fine balance

Holly Brooker from Parenting Place offers a parent’s gentle guide
to reining in screen time. 

While there are real benefits to all those handy screens in our lives (connection with faraway loved ones, online grocery shopping and relatable parenting memes would be my top three), there are also down sides. When screen time isn’t balanced with the other things that make us happy humans (things like exercise, sleep, time outdoors and, most importantly, face-to-face connection), the benefits are overpowered by the negatives.

Recently, the annual Nib Insurance State of the Nation Parenting Survey, which canvasses the issues and concerns of parents around New Zealand, released more research results showing what parents are struggling with the most.  

The results reveal that 70 percent of parents and caregivers are concerned about their kids’ tech use, with 24 percent revealing they are “extremely concerned”. However, two-thirds (66 percent) of us admit we rely on technology as a distraction for children. Easy babysitter, right?

Are we addicted? 

What is interesting about this research is that parents admit lacking discipline when it comes to their own screen time and their inability to model healthy device use. 

In fact, a whopping 50 percent of the parents surveyed said they themselves felt addicted to their devices. I’m sure most of us can relate. We are living and parenting in the thick of a digital era and can feel this constant push and pull as we use tech while also trying to maintain balance for our families.

The family hui 

I’m a big fan of the “family reset”. There can be more buy-in when boundaries are discussed as a family (in a family meeting or hui), and there’s an opportunity for kids to identify the positives and negatives they see from device use and feel heard as they voice their opinions too. Be honest, share your own thoughts and concerns – it’s great to share how too much screen time affects us as adults as well.  

If tech time has crept in as the default activity at your place, you might want to chat with your kids about ideas for offline things to do. Joining your child in these activities can help them transition back into the real world − whether it’s a board game together, a walk to the park to kick a ball, or doing something creative together. 

Walk the talk

The thing is, kids learn by what they see more than what we say. So if we keep harping on about the dangers of screen time but are constantly on our phones ourselves, the message is murky.  

I’ve found that turning notifications off, deleting social media apps and news apps with never-ending feeds, and even using grey scale has helped me rein in my screen use and makes my phone less enticing!

Putting limits in place

Limits are good. While we can’t live in a screen-free bubble, we can put boundaries in place around when, where and for how long our family can use devices. We can also have family limits around what content our kids are consuming.

Every whānau is different and parenting isn’t black and white. How much access to technology you want your kids to have is something you get to decide for your family, and limits might vary according to circumstances or change as your kids get older. 

When we set limits, it can take a bit of work to stick to them and continually reinforce them. Patience and consistency are key here. Kids are wonderfully adaptable – they will adjust to the new framework and find fresh ways to spend their time. They’ll also benefit hugely from the developmental opportunities that time offline can bring.

Trust your own instincts, weigh up the pros and cons, and figure out where your family values lie, then set the limits you want for your family. And apply them to yourself, too.

Then, when all of that hard parenting work is done, sit down with a cuppa to enjoy that gripping show on Netflix you’re hooked on. 

parentingplace.nz

Taking charge

It took a health scare for Scandi Health Coaching owner Sofie Falk to find her true calling – helping other women realise their potential through self-care.

Words Hayley Barnett
Photos Gleeson Royfree

Sofie Falk often thinks about the day she woke up exhausted. Reflecting on the night before, there didn’t seem to be any explanation for the worst fatigue she’d ever felt. She wasn’t hungover, the kids hadn’t kept her up, and she’d gone to sleep at a reasonable hour. 

She dragged herself out of bed and managed to get her kids to daycare and school, but immediately returned home to sleep for six hours.

“When they came home I put them in front of the TV and went back to bed,” she explains. “From then on I started having horrible night sweats, my lymph nodes were swollen all over my body and I had constant migraines.”

The Tauranga mum of three went through the hospital system for a year and a half, having x-rays and ultrasounds and biopsies of her lymph nodes. They were consistently swollen, which indicated that Sofie had chronic inflammation throughout her body.

“After a lot of different tests, I was eventually discharged from hospital
as a ‘diagnostic dilemma’. But I knew there was more to it.”

That was the beginning of Sofie’s foray into the natural therapy world. With a degree in Sports Science, and having worked in areas like human nutrition at The University of Auckland, a lot of holistic treatment was foreign to her, but she also knew there was a chance she could treat whatever it was that she was fighting by changing her lifestyle. She saw a naturopath who advised she cut out caffeine, gluten, dairy and alcohol, and after just a few weeks she noticed a massive difference. Her migraines had disappeared, she started sleeping well and the swelling in her lymph nodes dramatically improved.

“I felt like I'd got back to myself. I started wondering how many other people were out there suffering and thinking it’s just mum life or some horrible illness they can’t shake.”

Blessed with newfound energy and vitality, Sofie decided to upskill by doing a health coaching course, to find out about the latest research in holistic medicine and nutrition. “I found my calling,” she says. “I needed to work with women, to help them become the women they know they can be.”

From there, Scandi Health Coaching was born, and soon Sofie was organising health retreats. She had been to a few herself in the past and knew there was a gap in the market for something low-key, affordable and less, well, hippie.

“The retreats I’d been to were expensive and they were the kinds of places that make you sit around a campfire burning up your notes,” she laughs. “I wanted a normal one, where you can opt in or out of anything and just have time to yourself. I wanted to offer women a quiet space to notice what we need to notice.”

The last retreat featured vegan chef Mila Arena of delivery service V On Wheels, as well as Encore Pilates owner Fanny Peters and yoga teacher Estelle Harman, all known experts in their fields. The retreat offered yoga, breathwork and pilates, with massage, reiki and beauty treatments as added extras.

Coming up on her fourth retreat in October, Sofie dreams of taking groups of women to the Cook Islands and Australia. Right now, they’re being held closer to home, like Paradise Valley in Rotorua.  

“I grew up in Sweden and it was normal for people to attend retreats regularly,” explains Sofie. “I want my retreats to be for the everyday woman. Why can’t we all go somewhere exotic on our own or with a friend for a week, to recharge?” For now, Sofie is focussing on balancing work with family life, keeping her revitalised sense of self well nourished.
“I don’t want to tip over into burnout. The demand is there so I’ll carry on offering it, but I might have to hire a bigger team at some point!” 

Scandi.co.nz

Pause, Relax, Unwind

As we shrug off winter and look to set new health and wellness goals, the answer to lowering your stress levels and feeling better could be closer to home than you think.

Bay of Plenty is renowned for epic beaches, surf and sunshine but the variety of wellness activities on offer here has exploded post-pandemic. Soothing our minds and recharging our bodies is now a legitimate priority and there are some heavenly ways to do just that in our own backyard.

STEAM

Release physical, mental and emotional stress with The Sauna Project at the Mount or Waihī Beach. Heat up inside their traditional wood fired sauna followed by a cold ocean plunge. Known as “contrast therapy”, exposing your body to temperature extremes is a renowned way to promote healing, reduce pain and enhance your overall wellbeing. 

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SOAK

Try float therapy at Zen Float Spa. Their quiet pods of high-density saltwater remove gravity from the equation so you can completely escape from life’s many distractions. Fernland Spa and Ōropi Hot Pools provide a tranquil setting to let go of daily stress, or book a massage at one of the many beauty spas or massage therapy clinics across the Bay. 

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MOVE

Outdoor activities help promote mindfulness and improve your mental wellbeing. Mauao Adventures offer stand up paddleboard (SUP) sessions so you can admire both our moana (sea) and whenua (land). Or book a surfing lesson and experience the rush of riding our ocean’s waves.

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STRETCH 

Yoga and Pilates are long-recognised for their enormous physical and mental health benefits. Improve your strength and stability while releasing a rush of endorphins. Classes are available everywhere and are suitable for all ages and experience levels. Pilates can be done on reformer machines for extra resistance or just by using your own body weight. Enjoy a yoga session with Miriama at Waihī Beach or try a “Breathwork with Camilla” class for something a bit different.

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CONNECT

We are surrounded by nature but often forget to fully appreciate it. Reconnect with the outdoors by playing a game of disc golf at McLaren Falls Park or take a stroll along our extended beachside boardwalks. Go for a hike through Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park or explore native forests and spot a real life kiwi in the Eastern Bay with Ōmataroa Eco Tours. 

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PAUSE
Italians celebrate “dolce far niente” – the “sweetness of doing nothing”.
We can probably all agree that slowing down and enjoying the simple things in life is a great idea. Sit on the beach, walk through a park, enjoy a delicious smoothie at your local café, or pay your local coffee cart a visit. Find time to do nothing and you’ll be happier for it! 

Fighting fit

Rachael Ferguson’s stage four cancer diagnosis was a stark reminder that health really is our wealth

Photos Tim Ingle + supplied

When Rachael Ferguson was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer no one was more shocked than the former competitive bodybuilder herself. At just 32 years old, Rachael was the picture of health.

“I’d just got back into training,” explains Rachael. “I had been a member of Clubfit Baywave for five years and did a bit of running, too.”

At the time she was feeling a bit more fatigued than normal. Having just got married, Rachael put her tiredness down to the stress of the wedding and all the COVID-19 lockdowns that came afterwards.

Rachael and her husband Glen were planning to have a baby in the near future so she visited her doctor, to make sure she had nothing to worry about.

“Hand on heart, if we weren't planning to have a baby, I probably wouldn’t have made that call,” admits Rachael. “Had I not gone, it’d be a different picture for me today.”

After her diagnosis she had what is called definitive surgery treatment
– surgery on a sufficient margin of tissue. Her margins returned clear, but she still had to undergo chemotherapy, to catch any rogue cells.

Twelve rounds of chemo later, Rachael is thankfully one of the lucky few to survive stage four cancer. 

“My treatment took place over six months, with one every fortnight.
I just kept an open mind every time and didn't fixate on side effects.
Plus I worked out the whole way through.”

Her doctors recommended she continue her fitness regime as best she could.

“I was told it’s really important to replenish your body after chemo, because it absolutely knocks you. Exercise can be the last thing you want to do and often I'd feel average for a couple of days after treatment,
but as soon as I would start to feel okay, I’d either be out going for a walk or back in the gym.”

Rachael continued training at Clubfit throughout, allowing her to still attend her favourite classes of Body Step and Body Pump.

“Everyone at Clubfit was so great,” says Rachael. “They knew what I was going through and where I was at. It’s always been such a nice community to be a part of. There's no judgement and there’s so much support for everybody, which you don't often find in a gym.” 

Just six weeks after her last round of chemo, Rachael fell pregnant with her son, George. These days, with George having just turned one, Rachael still makes sure she prioritises fitness. She goes to Clubfit classes twice during the week and once on the weekend when George is at his swimming lesson at Baywave below the gym.

“I really believe being healthy and fit played a huge part in me fighting
the cancer the way I did,” says Rachael. “Everyone knows what the gym means to me now. It’s more than just staying in shape. A lot of women believe that once they become a mother their needs don't matter anymore, but you can't be your best if you're not feeling right. In many ways, looking after yourself is the most important thing.” 

Clubfit.co.nz

Hemp: the humble hero

Hemp has earned accolades over the millennia – useful as far back as 10,000 BC in pottery, then in rope, paper and cloth. Today, it’s being lauded as a star in the world of nutrition, wellbeing and sustainability.

Words Janet Hunt  |  Photos Jahl Marshall + supplied

There’s a faint scent at the office I’m visiting today, like cut grass or freshly turned earth after the rain. When greeted by Nigel Hosking, the business manager of Hemp New Zealand, I ask if they’re using something to cover the hemp smell. 

The staff are confused for a moment and then one of them flips open a bottle of their hemp cold-pressed oil and pours a little on my hand to smell up close, and detect a slight nutty, sweet smell. 

Hemp might be less famous than its closely related cannabis sativa cousin, marijuana, but it’s coming out of the shadows as more and more countries realise the modern value of this natural resource. Growing to harvest in just over a hundred days, hemp can be sustainably processed into a vast range of products from textiles to building materials to cosmetics. 

And moisturiser, as I discover when I rub the oil into my hands. I won’t get even a whisper of a high as the active THC of hemp in New Zealand is extremely low, making the hemp oil produced here safe even for babies, but I do end up with soft skin as the oil sinks in immediately. 

Farming hemp dates back to the start of human history, with spun hemp as one of our first textiles. Here in New Zealand we’re a little late with trial testing only started in 2001. Hemp New Zealand has been at the forefront of industrial hemp farming and processing here in the Bay of Plenty. 

When hemp was licensed as a food product in New Zealand in 2018, they developed the traditional “hemp hearts” – the soft, tiny centres of hemp seeds where the nutritional benefits are most concentrated – further into cold-pressed oils and capsules to make it even easier to add hemp to your diet. 

Hemp’s global market is over US$4 billion, and expected to grow another 17 percent each year as demand outstrips supply. With their deep commitment to sustainable production values, Hemp New Zealand’s products are already being sought overseas but they’re focusing on meeting local needs first because at their hemp heart, they’re doing much more than pursuing profit. 

“We could import the hemp, but it’s important to us that we grow it locally and know how it’s grown – by farmers who care, and spray-free,” said Claire Edmonds, a Hemp New Zealand staff member. “For us, this is a personal passion because we’ve seen the nutritional impact hemp oil can have.” 

On the wall near her desk is a collage of customer feedback, with pride of place given to a customer who had struggled with arthritis. “We love hearing back from our customers,” Claire says. “Hemp is really rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 oils and it’s very helpful for joint mobility. We have older people taking it who have struggled with joint issues, and they are able to manage walks and activities like bowls again.”

“We don’t make some essential fatty acids we need, so getting them in your diet is crucial for brain, vision and joints,” explains Hosking. “There’s a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory component too, which I’ve found an absolute game-changer for people with aching joints.”

But how does it really taste, I want to know, and that’s when I give the oil a cautious sip. It reminds me of sesame oil in a way – the same intense, warm, nutty flavour. Could I use it in a salad dressing, I ask, and immediately the team is trading recipes and tips. 

“We gave it to our baby daughter straight from the bottle,” Nigel says. “She couldn’t walk yet, but when she saw us take out the bottle, she’d flap her arms and bounce in excitement.”

For Claire, who is vegan, hemp seeds are a quick way to add extremely high-quality protein to her meals. “I’ll sprinkle some onto my porridge or add it to a smoothie blend. At 15g of protein a serving, it’s a great boost, and it makes the smoothie super-creamy.”

Hemp milk is another office favourite because it’s easy to make at home with a blender, and some prefer to use it as a milk substitute alone. Fay, who is a keen home baker and develops the online recipes, whips out her phone to show me a batch of fluffy apple muffins made last weekend with hemp milk. “You don’t need a lot,” she explains. “A kilo of hemp hearts gives you 14 litres of milk, so it’s handy to have in the cupboard.” 

The Hemp Farm Hemp Seed Oil comes in dark-glass bottles, which protect the oil for a longer shelf-life. There’s a split in the team between those who also use the oil directly as a decadent body moisturiser and those who opt for their range of natural skincare products with hemp. 

“It’s one of the perks of working here – getting to try out the new products!” says Venita, who is the friendly voice on the phone when customers call.

Word-of-mouth from happy and healthier customers has led to partnerships like Hemp New Zealand hearts and cold-pressed oil featuring on the menus of local eateries like Tay Street Café in Mount Maunganui. 

As I try out a bliss ball made with little hemp hearts included, I’m already planning a chicken and roast-veg salad with hemp oil drizzled over for dinner, but if the flavour isn’t quite what you like, there are capsules instead. 

With twice the protein of chia seeds, why isn’t hemp more widely known, I ask, puzzled. “People still think it’s a by-product of marijuana, not a different plant,” Claire laughs. “We’ve had to explain to some disappointed people that no, this won’t give you a high.” 

WHAT MAKES HEMP A SUPERFOOD?

• 30% protein, one of the highest plant-based proteins available

• 8g of fibre per serving for gut health and balanced blood sugars Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids for brain and heart health

• Anti-inflammatory compounds for joint health

HOW CAN HEMP HELP ME?

• Relieve aching joints

• Essential amino acids to heal the gut

• Post-exercise recovery

• Strengthens hair and nails

• Support for skin disorders like eczema and dry skin

WHY WE LOVE HEMP NEW ZEALAND

• Vegan and vegetarian

• Keto friendly

• Environmentally friendly

• Organic-certified facility

• Made right here in the Bay of Plenty at Tauriko

hempnz.co.nz