Comfort in the dark
Author and former palliative care nurse Janet Whiteside reveals
the lessons she’s learned from a lifetime of dealing with death.
Author and former palliative care nurse Janet Whiteside reveals
the lessons she’s learned from a lifetime of dealing with death.
WORDS Hayley Barnett | PHOTOS Katie Cox
At 83, Janet Whiteside has experienced far more than her fair share of tragedy and heartbreak – mostly by choice.
The palliative care nurse worked in numerous hospices around New Zealand and Australia for 27 years, supporting and caring for those suffering from terminal illnesses at the end of their lives. In her last few years in the job, Janet worked at Tauranga’s Waipuna Hospice. Having retired full of stories and wisdom and at a loss as to what to do with her spare time, she took her husband’s advice and decided to write a book. Released late last year, she named it Deeper Engagement:
A Conversation Worth Dying For. It includes the stories of her most memorable patients and the lessons she learned from caring for them.
“I felt I needed to do something,” says Janet of her book. “There seems to be increasing fear and uncertainty about getting ill with the possibility of not recovering. People have the feeling that death has to be so difficult and so painful, but although it is difficult, I believe sharing the experience makes it that much easier.”
Janet has fought her own battles with cancer – twice, in fact. In 2003, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent radiation therapy to treat it. The cancer returned in 2008, at which time she had a bilateral mastectomy. Since then, she’s been cancer free.
“Writing the book was actually very cathartic,” she says. “I have to be grateful for what I’ve learned over the years. People would ask me whether being a hospice nurse made my cancer diagnosis any easier to accept. It didn’t, but was it easier to recover from because of my experience with other people? Yes, it was.”
It was from her own learning that she realised knowledge really is power, and other people’s experiences can have a lot to offer those who are facing and fearing the unknown.
“Being in the presence of someone who’s at the end of their life is a gift,” says Janet. “If you can learn to stay rather than run from it, to not be afraid of it, then you have some power there. Supportive care is about putting that cloak around you, and for the people suffering from an illness, it’s so important to let people in and just be open. Over the years, what I gave of myself was rewarded tenfold by the trust instilled in me by those whose lives I had the privilege of entering.”
Janet’s husband passed away four years ago, leaving behind herself and her two sons and their families. “We’re all very open with one another,” she says of her close-knit family. “We can talk about anything and everything, and that helps a lot. The ability to converse with people is so important, and to just shut up and listen at times when they need you”.
Janet’s a firm believer in palliative care both during and beyond the life of the patient. She says death can affect the people around a patient more than the patient themselves, and it’s important for everyone to remember that.
“When someone gets sick, it isn’t just about them, it’s about the whole family unit. That’s the real beauty of palliative care – that it embraces that. Illness and death is ongoing for the family, so palliative care and support isn’t just for the person who’s received the diagnosis, but also for those families, to help them stay connected, because they need each other.”
Even at 83, Janet isn’t afraid of adventure. Right now, she’s in the process of selling her beautiful, big house by the sea so she can move from the Bay of Plenty to the Blue Mountains near Sydney to be closer to her sons and grandchildren. When I mention it’s quite a big change to make late in life, she nods. “It is, but I’ve always said I’m most comfortable on the back of a Harley-Davidson than anywhere else! My sense of adventure hasn’t changed with age.”
I ask if her work has encouraged her zest for life;if being around death makes her that much more aware of her own mortality.
“I’m not counting on living long,” she says with a smile. “I think considering my experiences, I’ve done very well to get this far. But a lot of time for people there is the fear, not so much of dying, but about how they’ll die and how much they’ll suffer. The word ‘suffering’ is so misunderstood, because you can suffer for a lot of different reasons – mentally and emotionally too. Finding a way around that and living life right to the end is so important.”
Six lessons I learned as a palliative care nurse
Things are not always how we wish them to be. The only certainty we have is in this very moment; meaning comes from everyday life and isn’t something we seek at the end of it.
Communication is at the heart of everything. Our voice can be lost when receiving devastating news, but never doubt your inner strength, for within lies the real you.
We worry about time, but it’s what we do with it that matters.
Forget the ‘bucket list’ – be spontaneous.
The only death in life is death itself. It’s the living that counts.
Cancer can destroy your life, but it can’t destroy the uniqueness of you.
Body in balance
Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa is the perfect place to learn the incredible benefits of calming your mind and healing your body.
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.
This is the place
Pāpāmoa’s renowned lakeside retirement village is about to go even further with their impressive offering.
Pāpāmoa’s renowned lakeside retirement village is about
to go even further with their impressive offering.
Words Monique Balvert-O’Connor | Photos Jahl Marshall + supplied
On the coastal stretch between Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa, you can feel the excitement building at Pacific Lakes Village, as the forward-thinking lifestyle village continues to expand. Designed to serve as a central hub, The Pavilion, currently under construction, is set to open in spring next year.
The design of this 2,500m2 community facility has been carefully considered. The teams at architectural practice Peddlethorp and interior designers Space Studio have come together on the project, resulting in a classic, sophisticated building that will stand the test of time.
Spearheaded by David Sweatman of Space Studio, the selected interior focus is on “natural materials, warmth, character and familiarity. The decor will be modern, with hints of mid-century”, David says.
Other design highlights will include the extensive use of timber as interior cladding, together with natural stone; parquet flooring, and the inclusion of extensive skylights to maximise natural light. Pacific Lakes purposely selected a main structural frame of LVL timber rather than steel to align with the village’s sustainability ethos. These components were all fabricated in Auckland and transported to the site for a seamless construction methodology.
Part of the Generus Living Collection, Pacific Lakes aims to offer a unique, modern and engaging community with facilities more like an upmarket resort. “Our intention has always been to offer our residents choice. That’s one of the great things about the village model, choice is possible, and we position ourselves to provide facilities, service and amenity at the highest level,” says Graham Wilkinson, the director of Generus Living. “Like the Lake House, which opened in 2022, The Pavilion is an integral part of that picture. Our model is firmly rooted in hospitality and The Pavilion will be a true reflection of that concept.”
With an estimated cost of over $40 million, it will be one of the largest and most comprehensive community facilities in any New Zealand retirement village. It will provide communal areas for a variety of activities and incorporates a stylish eatery, lounge bar, library, art studio, billiards room, beauty salon and a wellness suite for visiting consultations (for example, to cater for podiatry, acupuncture, physiotherapy, massage and village nurse health checks).
The Pavilion will also feature an impressive and spacious multi-purpose recreation space that has been designed with flexibility in mind. Operable dividing walls will enable smaller gathering spaces, yet, when used as one large area it will be perfect for large gatherings. A similar desire for flexibility is evident in the design of the restaurant area to cater as a daytime café as well as evening dining. Highlighting the village’s garden to table ethos, a chef’s garden with raised garden beds and a glasshouse will enable the restaurant to embrace a local and seasonal approach to sourcing ingredients.
In short, The Pavilion will be perfectly suited to hosting a wide range of events, private functions and resident activities and will truly enable the village community to come together.
Adding to its appeal is its location – on the lake’s edge opposite the popular smaller community facility, the Lake House. The two buildings complement each other beautifully. The Lake House includes sweeping decks and a barbecue area overlooking the lake, as well as the village’s Little Green café, a perfect place for socialising. Positioned alongside it is a full-size, green-weave bowling green.
Over the past year, the village has seen further development, the newest addition of pickleball courts (which also acts as a full-sized tennis court) is proving very popular. The on court pickleball action has included “try and learn” sessions that have progressed into games and then competition matches. It’s understood that pickleball courts are a first for
a New Zealand retirement village.
The Village Common, a serene area with bench seating amidst the greenery, has also been a wonderful addition to the village amenities. It features a winter garden glass atrium as well as a community garden with raised planting beds and a greenhouse.
“It’s there for residents to use at their leisure,” says Mark Vincent Pacific Lakes Village manager. “The idea is that it offers another spot to enjoy a cuppa with a neighbour or friend, host small gatherings or
a meeting, or simply to enjoy a moment of solitude.”
The burgeoning Bay of Plenty population is watching developments at the village with interest. With its park-like grounds, beautiful waterways and eco-friendly lifestyle, it’s proudly the first Generus Living village to take a comprehensive approach to sustainability in design.
All building materials throughout have been carefully considered, and environmentally preferred solutions have been front of mind throughout the village’s development. For example, solar energy is utilised at the Lake House, LED lighting has been selected for both street and internal lighting, there are EV charging stations, and Pacific Lakes has also used
every effort to adopt best practices and demonstrate good stewardship of the water resources from irrigation to stormwater management.
Pacific Lakes is also part of the Tauranga Council Resource Wise Business Programme – a programme supporting local businesses to reduce the amount of waste they send to landfills. The Village has achieved remarkable Green status with over 98 percent of operational waste being diverted from landfills.
These are only a few examples of an impressive list as the village is steeped in sustainable ways of living with a strong support from the residents. “Resident surveys have illustrated that a sustainable lifestyle is either important or very important to over 94 percent of village residents and over half of the respondents said that the village's approach to sustainability contributed to their decision to purchase at the village,” says Graham.
Pacific Lakes is a growing community. There are currently 190 residences, catering for just under 300 people, and when completed, the village will comprise 250 homes. Villas and terrace houses are selling now. “We are delighted but not surprised by the positive feedback being received as the village continues to grow from both happy residents and
from those hoping to make it home, says Mark. The village is already in high demand, and the addition of The Pavilion will only increase its desirability.”
Mediterranean meditation
Surrounded by lofty palms on one of The Mount’s most coveted streets, this transformed 60s’ Beazley home is an entertainer’s paradise, and a serene minimalist sanctuary of space and light.
Surrounded by lofty palms on one of The Mount’s most coveted streets, this transformed 60s’ Beazley home is an entertainer’s paradise, and a serene minimalist sanctuary of space and light.
Words Jo Ferris | Photos Hunter Studios
Sitting in one of Mount Maunganui’s sought-after streets, this home doubles the prestige with a rare, full site – a tropical oasis at that. Towering palms are about the only feature this couple didn’t introduce,
when buying a home that lacked architectural finesse. They took a 60s’ Beazley and transformed it into a luxury Mediterranean resort.
While the original home had been extended, it was substantially different
to what exists now. With raised ceilings in the open plan living area, new master wing, redesigned staircase and a complete overhaul of the back yard, this home is an expression of style.
Elegant and considered in its complexity, simplicity is the star. It showcases the innate talent usually associated with professional interior design. Yet, this couple understand that less is more. The continuity of space and texture make this house a sanctuary by the beach.
The tone and natural texture form an intimate story that begins at the front door. The curvature of a stairwell day bed is stylish and genius use of an unusual space – a precious hideaway for secret moments.
As stairs lead up to family living, a feature wall showcases the artistry of imported Venetian lime plaster – flecks of golden mica punctuating this finish to mimic beautifully aged Italian stucco.
Featured on a back-lit wall behind the TV and again in the master suite, the lime plaster is a subtle salute to the home’s European inspiration. The theme throughout – structured lines and curves underpin its striking simplicity. Streamed with light and sun, skylights and raked ceilings continue out to a sun-drenched loggia with views to Mauao peeking through luscious green palms.
The back loggia is an entertainer’s dream, with a Mediterranean-inspired pizza oven and outdoor kitchen keeping the party in one place. An edible garden for salads and fruiting banana palms make this space an exotic retreat.
The minimalist approach throughout hides switches and anything that upsets the finesse. Detail is discreet yet refined. Brushed gold accents add a touch of sophistication and elegance, while smart lighting technology removes obstructions which would deflect the clean finish. The streamlined excellence of cabinetry from the kitchen and scullery to bathrooms and extraordinary storage in the master wing is the work of craftsmen. Handmade curves are constant; either dramatic and a showpiece or subtle and in the background.
Complete with self-contained living quarters downstairs, gated security
and garden ribbons that embrace this home with magnificent palms; it is an extraordinary example of how complex design transforms to the simplicity of interpretation.
70 Valley Road, Mount Maunganui
The comeback kid
Two years ago kayaker Luuka Jones could barely walk down the street without wheezing. In July she’ll represent New Zealand in K1 and the extreme new Kayak Cross at the Olympic Games and hope to fulfil a long-held dream.
Two years ago kayaker Luuka Jones could barely walk down the street without wheezing. In July she’ll represent New Zealand in K1 and the extreme new Kayak Cross at the Olympic Games and hope to fulfil a long-held dream.
Words Karl Puschmann | Photos Graeme Murray + SUPPLIED
Styling Nicky Adams | Hair & Makeup Desiree Osterman
When Luuka Jones was 11 years old, she set a goal that one day she would win an Olympic gold medal. In July, the 35-year-old kayaker will
look to fulfil that long-held ambition when she travels to Paris to represent New Zealand in her fifth – yes, fifth – Olympic games.
What makes her young promise so audacious is that back then, she was not a young kayaking prodigy nor was she showing promise of becoming the history-making athlete that she is now. Heck, she wasn’t even kayaking competitively. She’d barely gotten her feet wet, having only learned how to paddle a year earlier.
“I don't know where that goal came from,” she laughs, thinking back to her humble beginnings on the water. “But I do have a strong memory of setting it. I was babysitting for my neighbours. They had Sky TV so I was able to watch Sarah Ulmer win her gold medal at the Olympics. It must have inspired me.” Watching Sarah Ulmer whiz over the line at the 2004 games in Athens sparked something in Luuka. Sarah had just given New Zealand its first-ever gold medal in cycling and set a new world record in the process. Witnessing history being made was life-changing for the young Tauranga local watching along on the TV.
Shortly after she remembers entering the Waimarino Intermediate School kayak challenge on the Wairoa River. The event was a multi-stage race that strung various kayaking disciplines together and challenged participants across a wide range of skills.
She says she felt focussed and completely determined.
“I remember the nerves. The other girls were all really good but I was so motivated to try and win that competition. I remember how good it felt when I did,” she smiles, still looking chuffed at the result. “That feeling of winning never gets old. It's a deep satisfaction that you achieved something.”
It will not surprise you at all to learn that Luuka has a fierce competitive streak. It’s something you need to become a world-class athlete competing in two events at the Olympics – K1 slalom racing and the new Kayak Cross event – with all the discipline and training that is required. She guesses it was inherited. Her nana was a competitive tennis player and basketballer and her mum also plays tennis. Her sisters haven't been involved in high-level sport but their blood still pumps with that same fire.
“We played a lot of competitive board games,” she laughs. “We’d play The Game of Life and all be doing whatever it took to win. I've just always had a competitive streak. I guess what’s driven me is that I found a sport that I absolutely loved. I was going to do anything to try and get better at it.” Then she pauses and says, “It’s just been quite a long road.”
That road started on a farm. Before Luuka hit her teens, her grandparents bought some farmland next to the Wairoa River and then, shortly later, her parents moved the family next door. She started swimming lessons at the nearby Waimarino Water and Adventure Park, which is still running today, and then took up kayaking lessons, working at the park in exchange for the lessons.
“Barbara and Barry, who owned the park, were incredible and really supportive of me,” she says.
She quickly grew to love recreational kayaking. She would go away on kayak camping trips and learned how to paddle the river’s gnarly whitewater. Her skills quickly improved and before too long she was navigating the entire whitewater section right down to below McLaren Falls.
“It was such a buzz,” she enthuses. “You learn skills that you don’t know you’re learning and get that whitewater confidence. But it’s also the joy of being out on the river with everyone. That camaraderie and friendship. Some of the people I met early on in my recreation career are still my friends today.”
In a few short months, the sport of Kayak Cross will make its Olympic debut. After taking first place at last October’s World Cup in France, Luuka is considered a favourite for the event.
This kayak offshoot is best described as a mix of raw physical strength and chess-like tactics that plays out in real-time among swirling rapids.
It is thrilling to watch.
At the start of the race, the kayakers plunge down a steep ramp straight into the frothing waters below. They are frighteningly close to each other and then, suddenly, they’re not as they disappear into a flurry of paddles and shoot along their chosen lines through the whitewater and around the gates that make up the course. From their vantage point at the top of the ramp, the athletes have a split second to see a line that accounts for speed, the churning waters, and take a guess at what their competitors are thinking. Plans can rapidly go out the window. Ramp position, the way the kayak hits the water at the bottom of the ramp, and even a little bit of competitive argy-bargy on the water can sink any Olympic dreams. Kayak Cross is both physically and mentally demanding. And not without its dangers.
“It’s very tactical. Some lines are shorter or faster but people are chasing you or you’re chasing someone and you're having to read the whitewater, navigate the gates, and interpret what other people are doing. You’re under pressure because someone’s going to try and take you out or smash into you. You really need to be aggressive. There’s so much going on. That’s what I love about the event.”
As Luuka explains the physical, aggressive, aspect of Kayak Cross, I can’t help but notice a little glint in her eye. I point this out and she laughs and exclaims, “It’s true!” before elaborating.
“If you’re behind someone, you really do need to come down and smash them out of position.”
We both laugh and then she says, “But it is quite nerve-wracking, sitting up on that ramp,” before explaining what it’s like.
Luuka competing at the Kayak Cross Nationals in Auckland
(photo Rod Hill).
“You have your plan, but when you launch in you have no idea what’s going to unfold. You all launch at the same time and you want to be fast down the ramp and people are paddling and there’s so much going on that you have to be quite calm and composed in what is an incredibly chaotic situation. You hope that when you land, you’re going to be out in front, but that doesn’t always happen. You could get a paddle to the face.”
The most extraordinary part of Luuka’s journey to the 2024 Olympic Games, and what will make it ripe for a movie adaptation if she does indeed win the gold medal, is that less than two years ago she was diagnosed with Long Covid. It well and truly knocked her out. Forget about gold medals, she could barely make it to the letterbox without becoming puffed out of breath and needing to rest.
Her illness forced her to completely drop out of the 2022 season, losing the whole year as she rested and recuperated. For the competitive, world-class athlete, it was devastating and led to many dark days and sleepless soul-searching. During that long, hard year Luuka admits that she often thought about quitting and regularly questioned not just her commitment to kayaking but also her love for it.
“It was a hugely challenging experience,” she sighs. “I realised a lot of my happiness was wrapped up in physical activity. It wasn’t that I just couldn’t compete for a year, it was that I couldn’t do anything physical. Going for a walk was a big deal. I couldn’t feel competitive so I wasn’t excited about coming back to race. I was starting to question,
‘Should I even be doing this?’ or ‘Am I ever going to come back after a year out?’ All these thoughts cross your mind.”
It sounds like there may have been some depression seeping in, understandable given the circumstances, and she nods and heavily says, “Yeah, probably a little bit.”
Luuka talks about installing a hyperbaric chamber in her garage and laying in it for a couple of hours each day to get more oxygen to her lungs and help her body fight the infection.
Her recovery routine started out with three training sessions per week. If she had a recovery week, she never really enjoyed it, as she never felt like she'd earned it.
Eventually, after an incredibly difficult year, the fog lifted and Luuka felt able to race. She entered the Nationals, an action she describes as “a big deal” after her year off. She paddled well but disaster struck when she injured her neck. The injury took her out of contention for another couple of weeks. This set a pattern where she’d return only to hurt her knee or stuff up her arm. It seemed like every time she hit the water, she’d land another injury and be confined back to land.
“It wasn’t all just Covid, it was all these little obstacles along the way to getting back into full-time training,” she explains. “But my philosophy is that there’s an opportunity in everything. So I tried to look for the opportunities.”
One was being able to spend the year in New Zealand with her fiancé and her family instead of being off competing in Europe as she usually would be. But the biggest thing, she says, was that the enforced time off ultimately led to rediscovering her love for the sport.
“Before Covid I’d get so caught up in my mistakes. If I had a bad session, I’d take it home with me and be really pissed off for a long time. Now I’m just grateful for being out on the water, feeling those sensations and being able to paddle again. I’m glad I wrote down in my journal what was going on because I can look back and be like, ‘Oh, yeah, that was tough.’
“But I’m the sort of person who just charges forward and doesn’t really hold on to those things too much,” she continues. “They make you more resilient, or they teach you something at the time, and then you just have to crack on.”
For someone about to compete in two events against the best athletes in the world at the most prestigious and globally historic sporting competition, Luuka is extremely relaxed. She’s in good spirits and feeling confident.
“I think it’s easy to be relaxed when you’re a few months out from the Games,” she jokes. “But it’s a high-pressure event, for everyone, and we’re all in the same boat, excuse the pun. But I try and put a lot of effort into preparing mentally as well as physically. It’s a big occasion with a lot of pressure and a lot of distractions. When I visualise the Olympics I feel a bit nervous. But I enjoy this time of year because it’s been a three-year build, and it all starts coming to fruition.”
Luuka’s comeback is nearly complete. She’s mentally and physically prepared. She’s going in as a favourite. And, perhaps most of all, she’s excited.
In her astonishing career, she’s set so many kayak slalom records in New Zealand, brought home so many medals, and competed in those four previous Olympic Games that she’s now the athlete that young babysitters around Aotearoa are watching compete on TV.
“I sometimes forget that maybe I am a role model because I still haven’t achieved what I want to achieve, or I’m not at that level yet,” she says, referencing her decades-old goal.
“But when I reflect on my journey I have a lot of things to share, and it’s nice to maybe inspire someone to pick up a paddle or pursue something that they’re passionate about. That would make me really happy to know that I've helped someone to chase their dream.”
Which circles us back to the start. Luuka got Silver at Rio. Will she get Gold in Paris fulfilling the goal she set for herself all those years ago?
“Hopefully, yeah! I mean, that’s the goal,” she laughs. “My fiancé, my family and my friends will all be there watching. It’s a really special occasion to share with them and then to go out there and see what I can do. And it’s so exciting to represent the Bay.”
Then she smiles warmly and says, “Really, I’m just a small-town girl from Tauranga.”
Flawless finish
Get wedding-ready with Leanne Cashmore’s ultimate bridal skin plan.
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.
Pioneering pathways
A Tauranga businesswoman and leadership coach has undergone a transformative journey from teenage mum to commercial lawyer and now an award-winning speaker.
A Tauranga businesswoman and leadership coach has undergone a transformative journey from teenage mum to commercial lawyer and now an award-winning speaker.
words Karen Clarkson
When Stacey Mareroa-Roberts (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Awa, Whakatohea, and Te Rarawa) reflects on her journey from a young law student to globally revered inspirational speaker and workshop leader, she stops to acknowledge the character and grit it took to overcome the barriers she faced. “I wasn’t thinking about failure, or what happens if I don’t. I had this clear awareness of what the world could look like if things were different. I was also a teenage mother studying full-time and working part-time trying to make ends meet, so it was needs must,” she recalls.
Her unwavering determination coupled with an inquiring mind was highlighted at age 14, when Stacey was taught a version of local history at school that wasn’t resonating. She reached out to her marae historian at Whakamarama, Te Puna, who shared some unique family treasures and local records.
“I was like a kid in a candy store, poring over court transcripts, archives, and records, interviewing our kaumatua about the treasures I explored. We wrote our own version of local history that reflected stories of our people and our community,” explains Stacey.
From there, the seed was planted to forge a path to create and share a more inclusive history and stories, she says. The ambitious 18-year old moved to Hamilton to start a double degree in law and social science – the first person from her family to attend university. Halfway through that year, she discovered she was pregnant, expecting a baby boy.
“I wanted to come home to raise my son, so I completed my first year of study and moved back to Tauranga.” At the time, there was no law degree offered in Tauranga, so Stacey pioneered one.
“The University of Waikato said they needed a dozen people to join the course to justify a programme here. So I went door-knocking,” she laughs. “And found enough people to study with me.”
From there, Stacey embarked on a challenging journey as a young mother and student, juggling night classes, assessments and work to support herself. She soon realised the lack of support for Māori women like her striving for change. Graduating as the only woman among her peers with a double degree, both achieving international honours, she also received the Top Scholar Prize for History and financial aid of scholarships, acknowledging the crucial role of community and family support.
“As I walked up to receive my degrees, my nan proudly represented my entire family, who were standing close by. It truly takes a village,” she explains.
Stacey with her son at her graduation from The University of Waikato.
After achieving a Master of Laws with top honours in Māori governance, Stacey quicky emerged as a local icon, a dynamic wāhine Māori lawyer driven by purpose in the Bay of Plenty. Specialising in post-treaty settlement business and leadership structuring, she provided invaluable advice to various Māori organisations ranging from informal groups seeking incorporation to multi-level joint ventures balancing commercial goals with their vital role in managing people and stewardship of land resources for the future.
It was during this time that her foray into professional public speaking quickly gained momentum. Within a few years, a passionate side hustle evolved into a part-time career as an inspirational speaker and workshop leader traveling abroad and hosting online workshops. “While sharing my knowledge and experiences at business conferences, universities and professional development events, I realised that, as I was going through my own transformation, I had the opportunity to inspire others to embrace their gifts and leadership too,” she reflects.
Stacey has now empowered more than 15,000 people through speaking engagements, business development workshops and leadership courses.
Last year, Stacey was named in the Top 100 Global Transformational Coaches Dominating 2023. Her most recent accolade was her selection from nearly 100 applicants across Aotearoa to join the Coralus 2024 Venture cohort – the first recipient from the Bay of Plenty in the organisation’s history. Launched in Canada in 2015, Coralus (formerly SheEO) is a global community of women dedicated to ticking off the world’s to-do list. As a collective, they contribute to a fund that provides vital support and interest-free loans to women-led businesses, like Stacey’s, striving to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“Our mahi has always been centred on inclusive leadership and high-value enterprise education for social and economic prosperity,” Stacey says. “This alignment with Coralus enables us to champion representation of indigenous people even further and create a sustainable pathway for Māori, especially women, to step into their leadership.”
The 2022 Wāhine Summit and Celebration in Tauranga.
While Stacey has rubbed shoulders with motivational coaches and speakers including Eric Thomas, Lisa Nichols, and Trent Shelton and worked with clients like Dr Michelle Dickinson (Nanogirl) and Alexia Hibertidou (GirlBoss), she says her heart lies in the roots of her community, developing business leaders at home.
“I reflected ‘Where could I have the most impact?’. And it’s here, supporting women, who are already doing incredible work, to step into their leadership and be given the tools and confidence to ignite their passion and talent.”
Stacey believes we have a real opportunity with initiatives like Coralus to shift the needle permanently. “One day I hope we won’t have strategies to promote and retain women in power, or say we are talking about wāhine leadership, we will just say leadership. There’s room for everybody and I want to help create a pathway for women to prosper in leadership roles and our rangatahi to see themselves within those leaders; exactly what I was missing as that wide-eyed teenager from Te Puna, hoping to change the world.”
Nestled into nature
Shared family living can heighten the desire to move to the country. Avocados here increase the incentive, but separate living quarters also offer other options.
Shared family living can heighten the desire to move to the country. Avocados here increase the incentive, but separate living quarters also offer other options.
words Jo Ferris | photos Boundless Vision
Whakamarama is sought after within Western Bay of Plenty. It’s far enough from the bustle of Tauranga city, yet near enough for comfort when the need arises. Privacy here is absolute; nestled into the hillside with north-facing panoramic views using nature and landscaping to surround the home.
Looking down to Tauranga Harbour and the city below, Mauao stands majestically in the distance. Postcard imagery frames the harbour entrance and shipping – making gorgeous telescope views from this tranquil hillside location. Outdoor connections are integral to this home’s allure. Two living areas enjoy different settings and moods around the house. There’s a café patio, expansive full-sun decking, and a brick paved dining area around the open fire for barbecues. Fronting it all is a swimming pool; its curved, semi-infinity aspect inviting a cool dip while basking in the scenery. Some bedrooms also enjoy personal links outdoors.
The décor showcases charming traditional influences with the on-trend appeal of panelled walls. Practical hardwood flooring continues the modern thread, while high-raked ceilings and considered glazing ensure natural light and sun streams inside. Central to family life is a bespoke kitchen, its essential large island bench confirming this gathering point for entertainment. Chic finishings, ample workspace, and a spacious scullery secure a cook’s dream for hosting – particularly the barn door, which gives a butler’s entry into the scullery and out the back door. Barn-door styling also features elsewhere – most notably, a recycled native timber door to the fireside lounge.
Bathroom luxury is significant as well. Privacy for the master suite, a second guest ensuite bathroom, plus a lavish family feature everyone will want to share. Twin vanities disguise the double-entry, twin walk-in shower, while the oval bath spells total indulgence.
With five bedrooms in the main wing, it’s this home’s second wing that raises the bar. Self-contained living comprises one bedroom, bathroom and comfortable living with a generous modern kitchen. Separate in its own space, the unit connects discreetly with outdoor entertainment. A fully-fenced mature garden invites time outside for the family to explore. Lush landscaping wraps around the home in leafy garden pockets before meandering down into the orchard to check the avos and potter in the sheds.
With ample parking for the boat, campers and visitors, this is a property to share with family, or choose another path with Airbnb, perhaps? Anything is possible.
85 Plummer Road, Whakamarama
History in the making
After a couple of false starts, Tauranga is finally getting its very own museum in 2028. But what will it show and why do we need one
After a couple of false starts, Tauranga is finally getting its very own museum in 2028. But what will it show and why do we need one?
words Karl Puschmann
photos Katie Cox + supplied
The grand opening of the new Tauranga Museum may still be four years away but director Greg McManus’ excitement has already well and truly arrived.
When UNO calls for a chat to catch up on how the project’s going he’s bubbling with enthusiasm and bursting with ideas for how he sees the museum benefitting and adding value to the community.
His energy towards the long-delayed project is infectious and leaves you wishing it was opening as soon as possible.
But alas, the museum doors won’t open until 2028. With construction on its prime inner-city site having recently started, it proves the adage ‘good things come to those who wait’. Greg is a 30 year veteran of museums around New Zealand, including stints as Director at Rotorua Museum and most recently as CEO of Waitangi Treaty Grounds where he oversaw the development of two new museums, and feels strongly about the importance of museums to communities
“I believe every community needs a museum,” he says. “Museums house our collective memory, they store and interpret the history of an area, not just for visitors from out of town or overseas, but also for ourselves. We need museums to help us better understand the stories of the place we live in, and also the stories of others who share the place with us. Museums encourage an understanding of diversity and the interwoven relationships we have as people living together in the same place and they play a huge role in inspiring children and young people to have an interest in art, culture, science and natural history.”
The future Tauranga Civic Whare, Exhibition Gallery and Museum.
Strengthening the connection between people and place is one of Greg’s big passions and is high on the priority list for the museum.
He says that people get a greater understanding and sense of belonging from knowing the history of where they live. Tauranga and its surrounding region is full of unique stories and significant sites that deserve our attention.
“When people drive down Cameron Road, they drive past the Gate Pā battle site,” he cites as an example.
“I suspect a lot of people don't know or don’t give it a second thought, but that battle was a really important event in the history of Aotearoa New Zealand, not just Tauranga. There are sites like that all through the region.”
He’s also keen to showcase the many innovations that have occurred here, including the first-ever hot water cylinder to be run off public electricity invented right here in Tauranga in 1915 by Lloyd Mandeno and in the museum’s collection.
In total the museum collection houses more than 33,000 objects in total, with most having never been seen publicly because, until now, there’s been nowhere to display them.
“Obviously, we're not going to have 33,000 objects on display in the museum,” he clarifies with a laugh. “But the permanent exhibitions will be rich with objects from our collection and other collections around the country. It will be a real weaving together of stories, objects and images into a broad, rich experience. Because that’s what museums are: places that tell stories.”
Along with the main, permanent exhibitions, there will also be two large galleries for temporary exhibitions. This, Greg says, will open up Tauranga to world-class exhibitions that we’d usually need to travel to places like Auckland or Wellington to see. He talks about partnering with other museums to bring exhibitions from overseas but also about leading the charge and bringing international exhibitions exclusively to Tauranga. This would enrich our cultural exposure and also encourage people from other parts of New Zealand to visit the region.
“There's a huge circuit of exhibitions travelling around the world all the time,” he says excitedly. “We'll be able to tap into that and bring exhibitions to Tauranga. People love coming to the Bay of Plenty year-round and if we have fantastic exhibitions it will encourage them to stay longer and contribute more to the local economy.”
But all that is secondary to his first objective of telling Tauranga’s stories and encouraging locals to feel a connection with their shared history. He wants residents to have free entry to the core museum experience and, to encourage engagement and a sense of ownership, is starting a Friends of the Museum programme. The idea is to keep people informed about what’s happening as well as provide exciting opportunities and benefits to members.
“It really will make people feel a part of the museum as we build it and make that connection so much stronger,” he smiles.
And that’s what the new Tauranga Museum is going to be all about. Greg says he wants people to come to their museum and see themselves reflected in the stories it tells and perhaps learn a little more about the place they call home and the people they share it with. It's all about providing the opportunity for gaining an understanding of the richness of living in a place.”
He pauses for a second and then laughs and says, “Tauranga’s not just about going to the mall or going to the beach. There's a lot more to it than that and our museum will reflect that!”
Disruptive design
An outside-the-box creative uses recycled plastic to 3D print aesthetic objects for home
An outside-the-box creative uses recycled plastic to 3D print aesthetic objects for home.
Words Casey Vassallo
Founder Matt Watkins.
Based in Tauranga, Special Studio is a design and production studio that fashions intriguing objects from recycled plastics using 3D printers. Located on Durham Street, the space acts as both the workshop and showroom, where each piece comes to life.
It kicked off with the Lulu bin in 2021, named after friend and designer Lulu Jackson (of Lulu Jackson Bridal), who suggested adding a twist to the prototype, literally. “The idea was to make a rubbish bin out of rubbish,” says founder Matt Watkins.
The first sale came through Instagram, and Mount Maunganui’s beloved Paper Plane became their first retailer. The business has since snowballed, and today, it can’t keep up with demand despite making around 100 pieces a week.
The distinct and popular Lulu form has gone on to become a display bowl, funky planter and stool, which remains their bestseller and takes up to 14 hours to print. More recently, they’ve added a bulbous Bubble side table to the repertoire, a stone-looking Monolithic side table, and a collection of mini Lulu stools for the little ones. There’s also a new rock collection, where no two objects turn out the same, and a range of lighting is in production.
Other designs have been born from collaboration, like the Twist side table by designers Daniel Vi Le (who works for the likes of Cult Gaia) and Tanil Raif (ex-Yeezy design architect), and can be found in the Orange County Museum of Art’s Please Do Not Enter concept store as Special Studio’s first international stockist. Matt has also worked with Warren and Mahoney Architects to engineer an e-waste recycling bin for One NZ’s stores nationwide, featuring the Noise design’s rippled texture and embossed with “recycled devices”.
Matt puts Special Studio’s success down to the unison between the designs and materials, similar to Tesla’s recipe. “Our products could look this great, but if they weren’t made from recycled plastic, they wouldn’t sell as well,” he explains. “If they were all made from recycled plastic, but they didn’t look this good, we wouldn’t sell them.”
Back when Matt bought his first 3D printer in 2018, it didn’t start with what to make, but how. More specifically, mass production’s unsustainable nature spurred him to create his own circularity model.
“The goal for starting the company was to figure out the best way to make stuff, period,” Matt says. “You need to make on demand, and that’s what led to get into additive manufacturing and 3D printing.” That is, 100 machines making 100 objects are more reliable and adaptable than one machine making 100 objects.
Running close to 24/7, Special Studio has a host of small Delta 3D printers and a few custom-made large-format printers of their creation. “We make what we sell, which is incredibly rare,” Matt says.
“And because we make the machines that make the products, we have total control over the production process.”
It’s also Matt’s way of looking at a global issue – plastic waste – and how he can spin it into a solution. “The problem with plastic is behavioural. We have to stop using plastics for single-use applications, but we shouldn't demonise plastic,” he says. “It’s easier to recycle, easier to process, you can mould plastic, and it requires low energy.”
In its raw form, recycled plastic filament looks like fishing wire. Matt sources the colourful matte material from Netherlands company Reflow, and KiwiFil supply the clear, white, black and amber materials. Computer-operated, the 3D printer draws each design in fine layers using the filament. “The best way to explain it is a hot glue gun on the end of a robot,” Matt says. Close up, you can see the moulded lines that give each piece a textural look.
This isn’t Matt’s first successful venture, either. Off the back of DJing around town, he co-founded SoundSwitch in 2011, a software and hardware system used to synchronise lighting and music performances. He built the business from zero, raised capital, and learned the manufacturing game before selling to American enterprise inMusic in 2018.
Special Studio is soon looking to scale and set up 3D printers overseas (like the US and Australia) to make objects closer to their destination, but the Bay of Plenty will remain home. “If we had a machine in every major market, we could send the print files, and overnight it could be released globally,” Matt says.
Matt has always had a bigger picture in mind, though. “The long-term goal, whether that’s with Special Studio or a secondary company, is to move into functional architecture components,” he says of staircases, boats and homes. “For me it’s about design – being able to create something totally unique and new. That’s the exciting part.”
After the epilogue
At some point – given the right location, the vision, and the way that vision unfolds – nothing can improve what has been achieved with a property and its story. This property is the epitome of that.
At some point – given the right location, the vision, and the way that vision unfolds – nothing can improve what has been achieved with a property and its story. This property is the epitome of that.
words Jo Ferris | photos Boundless Vision
The setting is Tauriko – River Oaks Drive – aptly named, thanks to the leafy ambience its handful of residents share in this prestige enclave. The distinctive aspect of this property isn’t simply the seclusion and dominant position. It’s the size and zoning. The elevated site borders Wairoa River, embracing breathtaking views across the valley to the hills. At around 6.33 hectares, this is one of only two rurally zoned lots in this enclave, complete with grazing and stockyards.
Perfect for farmers looking to downsize while keeping their hand in, this exquisite home looks further into the future. A five-star master retreat upstairs provides luxurious privacy with a bedroom that opens to a grandstand balcony and a bathroom that invites lingering moments gazing at the scenery. Forethought, however, created a second ensuite bedroom downstairs – its poolside connection adding a different perspective on life. With the bathroom doubling as a powder room for the pool, it’s an elegant guest suite in the meantime.
This home is masterfully designed to take full advantage of the scenery, while landscaping capitalises on the unusual site. In commanding this headland, the home doesn’t try to dominate nature. It honours it – bringing stone and timber together in a layered illusion with balance and harmony.
A soaring atrium and bridge in the foyer draw eyes outdoors to that stunning view. Glancing down, the reflection pool opens the first chapter of this home’s story. Architectural flair and innovative interior design define rooms with colour, tone and texture. Wall features create mood; lighting instils artistry and outdoor flow is integral to the function and flow. There are sheltered places to dine and relax, sun-drenched areas by the pool and up on the spa stage and bedroom balconies upstairs. Either watching the rising sun or toasting sunset as lights twinkle up and down the valley, this home provides special areas to retreat to and reflect on life in this unique place.
Additional aspects like the superb parking options – covered and open – solar panels, high-tech innovation, and the bonus of a heated swimming pool with swim jets and automated cover, all work to complete this home’s initial story. Headlined by refined city living and livestock on the side, River Oaks is ready for a new chapter.
37 River Oaks Drive, Tauriko, Tauranga
Best in show
The Landmark Homes Pāpāmoa showhome is designed to dazzle
The Landmark Homes Pāpāmoa showhome is designed to dazzle.
Words Nicky Adams
When you build your own home it’s not just the result that’s unique, but also the experience itself. The ability to pick your very own slice of land and tailor-make the perfect property to match can be a wonderful journey. Like any adventure it’s unlikely to come without its challenges, which is why so many people opt to bring on board a building company – to not only navigate the rocky bits, but also to guide from beginning to end.
Knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming – with ideas flying from every direction – which is why talking to professionals at a building company can clear the wood from the trees. Looking at something concrete is often all that’s needed; for inspiration, the best place to start is undoubtedly a showhome. It not only gives a good gauge of the quality of the build, but also offers a chance to get to know the people behind the brand. The new Landmark Homes showhome at 5 Forstera Way, Palm Springs, Pāpāmoa is a truly special example that exhibits how the seamless relationship between the client and Carly and Logan Stewart, Landmark Homes' Bay of Plenty owners, can result in a residence that is everything the client dreamed of.
Carly and Logan have been the Landmark Bay of Plenty franchise owners/operators since 2018. With a combination of industry experience and love of a challenge, their approach is very client centric. They enjoy not just the physical build, but also the building of relationships, which, they say, starts from the very first meeting.
The Pāpāmoa showhome was an interesting project, in many ways defining new beginnings for those it was built for. A Hong Kong-based family had found their perfect section, but as they were still in a transitional phase, opted to build their dream home with Landmark Homes who had the ability to lease it back to be used as a showhome until the time the family were ready to move in. This made the project particularly exciting for Carly and Logan; usually with a showhome the building company would have carte blanche. In this instance there was a dual purpose, as the result would not just have to reflect the Landmark brand, but most importantly be the ultimate home for their client.
As the family were still in Hong Kong, client meetings about everything from floor plans to design inspiration were held with Carly and Logan over Zoom. Despite the distance, bonds were formed. Nutting down on
a style was an area of creative free flow – the couple loved the Hamptons style, but were also drawn to a coastal vibe. Merging two quite different feels was a masterclass in design. Cladding was an important element, with James Hardie Linear Weatherboard adding the perfect Hamptons vibe. Clean lines, clever use of natural light, and a neutral/white colour palette lock in the look.
As Carly pointed out “with aspects of the style we did well to drive it in the direction of the Hamptons /coastal aesthetic. The landscaping was an important part of this, and we worked with a local landscaper to get the plantings right – it has quite structured Hamptons styled gardens intertwined with less structured, more natural coastal plantings. To bring those two together and make a story through the landscaping has been a real added feature. When you step onto the deck and walk around the entire house the landscaping speaks beautifully to the interiors.”
The Design and Build process is an involved one. For the Pāpāmoa showhome: “We started with what the clients wanted. We work with different local architects and designers, picked depending on the client. Some of the styles we can see require certain designers; some might be suited to contemporary versus traditional. Our expertise comes in pairing up the right designer for the right job.” Once the plans had been confirmed, Carly was really thrilled. “It has a wonderful light, bright, warm feel. It’s actually the first single level showhome we’ve built since we brought the business seven years ago. I walked through it when the frame was up; I love airy spaces with natural light and airflow – everyone picks up on it.”
A three-bedroom home, spanning a spacious 261m2, is a great size. The design is thoughtful with consideration to the family dynamic, the master bedroom is on the opposite side from the children’s bedrooms, and there’s plenty of opportunity for growth. The reaction, Carly says, has been gratifying: “Everyone loves that the Pāpāmoa showhome is set
up for entertaining, and with it all being single level it pours out. There are huge glass sliders with great flow for entertaining and family living. It really does have a special feel – it’s a great place for a party!” Of course, the ultimate opinion lies with the clients themselves. They, Carly said, “were just mouth wide open – they loved it. They were quite overwhelmed and excited and just really looking forward to living in it.” And for Carly and Logan? “It’s a product we’re so, so happy to showcase.”
Looking through the showhome and gathering ideas is without doubt the best way to kickstart the thought process, but once potential customers are at this stage, fizzing with inspiration, where to next? Carly is very clear about the importance of the process for people, which is why a year ago Landmark moved into a purpose-built commercial office space in Matakokiri Drive, Tauriko. “We went into a brand new custom fit out; it’s in a huge warehouse so we can house tiles and product. The main idea was to have a lovely reception and a large selection room. There’s a 3D walkthrough, projected onto an 85-inch TV, where you can walk through the home plans. It’s a fully interactive experience, as well as being in this beautiful room with gorgeous products that people can touch and feel, with mood boards set up. We wanted to have something custom for the clients. It’s important they go through the showhome first – it’s a way for them to see what we do, then we set up a meeting
for them to come into the office with the selection room.” Circling back to the emphasis Carly and Logan place on the relationship side of the process, Carly sees it as an important step. “You get to meet the team and have a sensory experience of the selection room. It helps the process along to reassure them of the kind of company we are and what kind of product we turn out.”
The tight-knit team is a vital component of the dynamic, with Lisa as general manager, and Jeremy as construction operations manager. Together they thrive on the thrill of not just the straightforward jobs, but also the more difficult ones. Carly reflects: “We have got a bit of a name for taking on the more challenging projects – the long skinny sites, the sloping sections; and the building clientele who may have made a big investment in the land – we are then equally invested in helping them realise their dreams.”
Ultimately, says Carly, “everyone wants different things. One of the great things about Landmark Homes is that we’re New Zealand owned and we’ve been going for more than 45 years – and Landmark was founded in Tauranga where we still have our national office, which is quite special. A lot of people know it’s a tried and trusted brand. This instils confidence; people know they’re able to utilise our architecturally inspired Ready to Build plan collection, which has over 100 designs they can browse. For us it’s not about numbers – it’s quality over quantity.”
Showhome: 5 Forstera Way, Pāpāmoa
Out of the surf
Whangamatā's biggest attraction might be one of New Zealand’s best beaches, but did you know it’s also the perfect spot for a weekend adventure all year round?
Whangamatā's biggest attraction might be one of New Zealand’s best beaches, but did you know it’s also the perfect spot for a weekend adventure all year round?
Salt District Brewing
A small idea that started in a garage in Whangamatā a few years ago has quickly gained traction among locals and travellers alike. With everything falling into place, Salt District Brewing now has a cellar door located in town. Open Thursday to Saturday, you can sample the brews, which are all made on site, and transport the suds back home in a Salt District flagon (glass amber growler). You can now find the beer in Whangamatā at over six different cafés and restaurants. The team are passionate about their product, their town and community, and aim to stay hyper-local, hosting regular small events. Keep an eye out for Salt District cans at selected retailers soon.
Whangamata Ridges
Five minutes from the township on State Highway 25, Whangamatā Ridges is a mountain bike park with a difference. It suits everyone, from beginners to experts, with grade two to five trails. There's a fun single track, plenty of downhills and climbs, and the trails offer incredible views of the ocean and forest, cleared forest terrain and native bush.
Camina
Camina is a restaurant that honours the ancient bond between humans and fire. A celebration of owners Barend and Rowan's shared passions for food, music and community, the restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients cooked over the open fire as a way of recreating the experience of sharing stories, warmth and the simplicity of eating together. With a Spanish and North African influence, the menu and wine list is ever-changing with the seasons.
Bella Design
Located on Whangamatā’s main road, Bella is a gift and homeware store offering a carefully curated selection of quality gifts and homewares catered to a slow beach life and bach aesthetic. From accessories and fashion to gifts, lighting and furniture, Bella is one of those stores that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Palm Pacific Resort & Motel
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Whangamatā lies Palm Pacific Resort & Motel — a haven of modern two-bedroom apartments amid a tropical oasis, with established facilities for all guests. Experience the convenience of town-centre living, where every amenity, café and golden-sand beach is just a leisurely stroll away. With a children's playground next door, your perfect coastal escape awaits. Palmpacificresort.com
A cut above the rest
Meet Sam Henry, UNO’s new haircare expert, here to answer all your burning questions
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.
Making a splash
A popular craft brewery and eatery has just expanded into Ōmokoroa. Karl Puschmann checks it out.
A popular craft brewery and eatery has just expanded
into Ōmokoroa. Karl Puschmann checks it out.
Photos Jahl Marshall
There’s a new bar and eatery that’s been making quite a splash in the seaside village and holiday hotspot of Ōmokoroa. It may have only opened its doors in December but local craft beer enthusiasts and dumpling connoisseurs have been quick to jump into The Rising Tide.
It’s fair to say its reputation preceded it. Ōmokoroa’s Rising Tide is the first expansion for the incredibly popular Mount Maunganui institution of the same name that’s been brewing and serving award-winning craft beers since 2016.
But it’s not just the flavourful and distinctive range of its beer brand Mount Brewing Co., the juicy burgers or famous dumplings, the sun-drenched deck that overlooks the Soper Reserve or the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that’s made it a favourite in the Bay.
Rather, it’s the combination of all of those things along with a much more intangible quality; character. This is especially important to craft beer bars because craft beer lives or dies on its character. That's its whole thing.
“It's been a lot of time planning it all out. We wanted to replicate the Mount and have the same atmosphere,” Ellie Kirk, the general manager of both branches of the Rising Tide, tells me.
We’re sitting out on the bar’s spacious deck in Ōmokoroa, enjoying a couple of their signature Golden Hour hazy’s in the warmth of the midday sun.
“You can sit more than 150 people here, easy,” she smiles, looking around at the breezy space, before detailing plans for a large, fixed, all-weather marquee that will offer shelter from the elements and allow the Rising Tide’s popular live music programme to kick off in this new location.
“We wanted to duplicate what we have at the Mount and bring it to Ōmokoroa because it works so well there,” she says. “There's nothing like this around here.”
Getting here has paradoxically been an extremely long journey and also something of a rush. The idea for a new Rising Tide began formulating around three or four years ago, with Pāpāmoa being the chosen location. But then Covid struck, slamming the brakes on those plans. A couple of years later, when the worst of it was over, the Pāpāmoa site that’d been earmarked was no longer available. Undeterred, scouting for a new location began.
“It was so funny. Last May the owners just turned around to me one day and said, ‘Hey, we’re going to open up in Ōmokoroa. I was like, ‘What? This year?’” Ellie laughs, thinking back. “I said, ‘Okay, let’s go for it’.”
She came out to see the new location for the first time, a mere seven months before the planned opening.
“It was so different to how it is now,” she says. “I couldn't envision it. In my head, I was like, This isn't The Rising Tide’.”
The fixtures were all wrong, there was no room for a brewery (something that’d been part of their Pāpāmoa plans) and the vibe just wasn’t there. But the biggest offence was a giant, floor-to-ceiling mirror right behind the bar. Ellie says, that was the first thing that had to go.
“We wanted the same wall as the Mount. Visually, the taps are a big thing, because we are a craft beer bar,” she says. “It’s huge.”
Once the Rising Tide’s signature white tiles and the long row of beer taps went in, Ellie says the bar began to feel more like home. There are a whopping 30 taps to select from, including taps for Mount Brewing Co.’s special, limited-edition beers and ciders.
“Every limited release we’ll have here. I told them, ‘Don’t leave Ōmokoroa out!’,” she laughs. “Rising Tide in the Mount gets allocated three kegs and we get one keg. So once it’s gone, it's gone. We’re actually tapping on two new beers today.”
Great beer? Check. Cool vibe? Check. But there’s one other thing Rising Tide is known for, its food. Particularly the dumplings from their in-house kitchen, Johney’s Dumpling House. You can go ahead and put a big ol’ check next to that as well.
“There’s a lot of foodie people here,” Ellie says. “The quality of food, the service standards, the presentation are all exactly the same. That's a big thing for us here.”
Then she smiles and says something that will come as a huge relief during the current cost of living crises.
“And the deals are the same! We have the cheap beer, burger and fries deal on a Wednesday, you can come and get dumplings really cheap with a beer every Thursday.”
It’s been a lot of work, and a long time coming, but all the things people love about the original Rising Tide have successfully washed up in Ōmokoroa.
We’ve been sitting out enjoying the deck for about an hour while people have trickled in, eager to take advantage of the hot sun and a cool lunchtime meal and drink deal, and I can’t help but feel tempted to get another pint myself.
Contemporary charm
This modern bach not only embraces its beachside surrounds, it’s designed to seamlessly blend with the beautiful vista.
This modern bach not only embraces its beachside surrounds,
it’s designed to seamlessly blend with the beautiful vista.
words Monique Balvert-O’Connor
photos Untitled Studio + Salina Galvan
Mel Riley and his company DC Build may not have had a BOP arm for long, but they certainly secured a fabulous project to sink their teeth into.
Described as a sleek, modern ode to the joy of New Zealand beach life, DC Build and JMAC Architecture completed this contemporary build for Tauranga clients over summer, replacing a much-loved, somewhat dilapidated Pukehina bach.
DC Build’s Mel Riley says working with JMAC director and architectural designer Jason Macdonald and other professionals on the project was a great way to end the 2023 working year. It was an assignment that perfectly suited the “design meets craftsmanship” focus of the company he co-owns with his brother Justin. The beautifully designed home offered opportunities aplenty to showcase his team’s capabilities on the craftsmanship front.
“One of the things we love the most in a building job is beautiful details,” says Mel, adding that the home’s sarked cedar ceilings are a fine example of this, and enabled the DC Build team to put their craftsmanship to work.
The house sits on a generously sized rectangular site that stretches towards the beach. While it appears to hug the sand dunes, it does sit back significantly enough to allow protection from coastal erosion. In line with resource consent (the house must be removable), it has been built on timber piles, which required some significant design and engineering given the need to bore down three to four metres into soft sand without any collapsing.
It’s a beach house that can also boast estuary views. Hence, the pleasing floorplan incorporates two individual living areas maximising views of both bodies of water. Full-height, floor-to-ceiling windows in key areas ensure the vista can be fully embraced.
“Because of the high windows in the living area and master bedroom, the cedar ceilings continue seamlessly from the indoors to the outdoors where there are covered decks facing the ocean,” Mel explains.
Given the panoramic views, bringing the beauty of the outdoors in was always a design intention at this home. The deck’s roofline assists in doing so – it tilts up to bring in more of the views.
Mel appreciates it’s a home that has absolutely nailed the perfect combination of contemporary charm with the everlasting splendour of beachfront tranquillity.
He feels a natural leaning towards such aesthetically pleasing architectural builds. Shortly after becoming a qualified builder, he pursued a two-year national diploma in Architechtural Technology.
“I understand design,” says Mel. “A builder who can speak the architect's language is a valuable thing. Designers work with a builder who understands architectural plans beyond just following them, so any potential problems can be stopped before they arise. It makes it easier to achieve the high standard.”
JMAC’s Jason knows well the advantage of having a sympathetic builder on his projects, one who is a key player in seamlessly bringing his architectural visions to life.
The two say this beachfront build has been a great project to be involved in from start to finish. "The client on this project was really easy to work with, which made the process that much easier and enjoyable," says Mel. The process involved the happy homeowners recently hosting dinner for Mel and Jason’s teams and other consultants involved in the project. Those consultants included Yellowfox interiors and 689 lighting design. Mel says the professionals involved in the build worked together as one team from the get-go. Collaboratively, he says, this was one of those projects that really came together beautifully.
Mel seconds Jason’s thoughts: “To end up making friendships out of what we do is probably the biggest reward. I think that’s a true testament to the success of a build.”
As for the project’s early days, Mel was offered the opportunity to sit around the table with the architectural team and homeowners to discuss the job’s pricing process. This gave DC Build the opportunity to showcase its comprehensive and transparent pricing plan, which includes reports presented at various stages of projects. Those early three-way conversations were invaluable, Mel says, as they also included discussion around product such as the cladding. The clients opted for aluminium Nu Wall cladding (DC Build had worked with this pre-finished product numerous times). Its anti-rust qualities were deemed especially advantageous given the Pukehina home’s coastal location. The home is set to retain its good looks and turn heads for many a year.
Mel says all up, the Pukehina project fulfilled his company’s aim to craft homes that not only bring an architectural vision to the real world, but also make the owner, the architect/architectural designer and the team proud to be part of it.
DC and the BOP
All it took was a few wonderful beach holidays to get Mel Riley thinking seriously about extending his building business to include the BOP.
“We loved the area, loved the vibe, and I managed to secure a section in Pāpāmoa that would become home base.”
Mel and his brother Justin founded DC Build back in 2014. Up until Mel’s BOP epiphany about five years ago, the brothers’ business concentrated solely on residential builds in Auckland. These days the business has a team of six (made up of qualified builders and apprentices at various stages) in the Western Bay of Plenty, and 12 in Auckland. Mel heads the BOP team, ably assisted by Will Salwey as site foreman, while Justin’s at the helm in Auckland, where his team includes long-standing staff member James Poore as project manager.
It’s five years since Mel and family made the move. His first build in the Bay was of personal significance – the construction of a home for himself and family on that Pāpāmoa site. With that out of the way, it was time to focus on the business of building primarily high-end, architecturally designed homes – either new builds or renovations in the Bay of Plenty. Mel's son, Jay, recently started an apprecticeship within the business.
Working life in Auckland is busy for DC Build. “We have established our name there,” Mel says. “Now it’s time to build on what we’ve already achieved over the last few years in the Bay of Plenty. We have capacity and we’re keen and committed to staying in this region.”
It has been an eventful few months for the DC Build team. The Pukehina project was finished in December and since then, Mel has been busy pricing another coastal build and overseeing the company’s rebranding. Up until recently, DC Build was DC Builders.
“We’re armed with a fresh rebrand as of this year,” Mel enthuses. He’s proud of that brand, which he summarises as bringing architectural visions into the real world through creative knowledge meeting technical skill.
“The best projects are the ones that everyone is proud of.”
New beginnings
Summerhill Estate stands above the rest in terms of rural tranquillity and privacy. Nestled within Pāpāmoa Hills, boasting breathtaking views of magical proportions, this home personifies the essence of Summerhill
Summerhill Estate stands above the rest in terms of rural tranquillity and privacy. Nestled within Pāpāmoa Hills, boasting breathtaking views of magical proportions, this home personifies the essence of Summerhill.
Words Jo Ferris | Photos Boundless Vision
Golfers will be familiar with the golf course meandering through the estate. While membership is possible, residents enjoy free green fees. It’s an incentive to appreciate – yet Summerhill’s private privilege offers so much more. Properties here are tightly held.
This home’s views gaze out to the Pacific Ocean – embracing the rolling hills as the sun follows a course around the coastline, to the Mount, Tauranga Harbour and Kaimai sunsets. Immersed in nature, the home’s lofty position takes full advantage of its elevation, while melting into the countryside that surrounds it.
Sympathetic landscaping takes its cue from nature, while going several steps further to introduce home-grown self-sufficiency. The orchard boasts citrus and fruits, including bananas and even two varieties of hops. There’s a fenced vege garden, a berry cage, and a chicken run with a roost for fresh eggs.
The home’s tone is in total harmony with nature, cleverly blending natural materials with texture and colour within the décor. The backdrop balances autumn hues with contemporary accents – a gentle thread of farmhouse influences and elegant finesse.
The T-shape design ensures sun and scenery are integral to this home’s function and flow. Morning sun on one side of family living invites breakfast outside to bask in the ocean view. In the afternoon, living slips out to a vast lounge setting. A patio for sofas, a pergola for shaded dining, and steps down to a stony fire pit to toast sunset as pizzas cook in the pizza oven.
Parents enjoy a private, five-star retreat in their own wing, yet remain close to the afternoon entertainment outside. The remaining bedrooms share a second stylish bathroom, while a powder room offers further convenience when friends come around.
Other features include an office to work from home, a large laundry with mudroom entry, attic storage in the garage, rain water storage and bore access, ample storage inside and parking outside for boats, campers and visitors.
Apart from the golf course, Summerhill has walking tracks to enjoy nature and Pāpāmoa Hills Recreation Park is nearby as well. Seemingly high above the rest of the world, beaches at Pāpāmoa and the Mount are an easy drive. Heaven on earth lives in the hills of this well-kept secret.
1 Summerhill Drive, Summerhill Estate, Pāpāmoa
The world is your oyster
Stacey Jones savours the local kaimoana with a side of social enterprise.
Stacey Jones savours the local kaimoana
with a side of social enterprise.
Kaimoana is the jewel in the crown of the Bay of Plenty’s food story. A delicious bounty that supported Iwi for centuries, as they gathered kai in the plentiful harbours of Tauranga, Ōhiwa and Makatu over the summer months, preserving for the winter months ahead.
But kaimoana has become a scarce commodity, a result of relentless overfishing. It’s perplexing – our region boasts one of New Zealand’s most extensive coastlines, yet obtaining fresh, local kaimoana is akin to locating a pearl in a sea of oysters.
So you can’t imagine how big my smile was when I heard the oyster farm in Ōhiwa, newly named Tio Ōhiwa (“tio” means oyster), had been purchased by a collective of Māori tono (bid) for shares in the oyster farms’ development, with an aim to regenerate the oysters in the harbour, along with scallops, mussels, and pipis. Not only that, they’re also planning to offer a culinary tourism experience through a social enterprise, providing work opportunities to rangatahi (young people) who may find the school system challenging, but have potential.
The masterminds behind the project are directors Wini and Simon Geddes, quintessential Kiwis known for their no-nonsense approach to getting sh*t done. In my initial meeting with Wini, I quickly grasped the essence of her character. When I asked about her role, she replied, “I mainly clean the toilets” – which, while true to an extent, belies her role as director of Tio Ōhiwa.
Initially, their plan was to focus on training rangatahi to deliver a qualification in aquaculture, and then move onto the tourism experience at a later stage.
However, they swiftly realised the tourism opportunity could not wait. As Wini aptly puts it, “The tourism part of the project was a five-year plan, but we seem to have done it in five weeks.”
The newly reopened farm, established in 1968, offers daily tours, fittingly named the “Shuck ’n’ Cruise”. These tours include the chance to wade out to the oyster crates, shuck oysters, ride a boat into the harbour to see the farms firsthand, and savour the delectable kai offered at the onsite takeaway shop. Plans to create a new waterfront restaurant are in the making, with pontoons and a helipad, plus a boardwalk to Tauwhare Pāpa. They will also be offering year-round production so you’ll never have to go a day without oysters and champagne.
Remarkably, theirs could very well be New Zealand’s busiest seafood takeaway, dishing out 2000+ oysters a day during the peak season. This is just the beginning of their ambitious plans, with the owners aiming to reach a staggering five million oysters in annual production.
So this summer, take a trip to Tio Ōhiwa to experience their plentiful kaimoana. Book a Shuck ‘n’ Cruise, bring your friends, and go the extra mile to help this place become a must-visit tourism destination. After all, it’s not every day you get to experience fresh kaimoana right from the source, created by the most get-sh*t-done Kiwis I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. They are truly making the world our rangatahis’ oyster, while putting the “plenty” back in the Bay’s seafood story. Ka pai!
Peak performance
Why settle for the bare minimum? André Laurent wants the best, so he builds it himself.
Why settle for the bare minimum? André Laurent wants the best, so he builds it himself.
Words Jenny Rudd
Performance has always been the north star for the team at Creative Space Architecture. It could be getting the most energy efficiency from a new build, alteration or ensuring bullet-proof and robust weathertightness in a multi-level apartment complex. Performance is what truly spins the wheels of this team, many of them with a background in construction.
Director André Laurent and general manager Regan Little have always sought out high-performing construction systems like insulated concrete forms (ICFs), seen to be alternative, but outperforming the field in terms of insulation and durability, especially important in our coastal environment.
This drive to build the best-performing houses for their clients has taken them back to their construction roots with their new project, EvoCo.
We asked André about his passion for Passive Homes and other high performing design methodologies, which are built with a focus on the occupants’ health and wellbeing, while consuming very little energy.
How do you use your expertise to support clients?
When it comes to New Zealand’s housing stock and the building code, it’s important to understand that the New Zealand Building Code represents the bare minimum standard. Imagine if you were building a boat to sail your family to Europe – would you build it to the bare minimum marine standards? Most likely not. Similarly, we shouldn’t take that approach with architecture. Many homes under construction have the potential to achieve a much higher level of performance; it’s just not the industry norm to invest a little more in those areas, and many aren’t aware of what’s achievable, or what the returns are. Maximising energy efficiency through architecture involves guiding clients to choose the right products, materials, and construction methods. It’s about tailoring solutions to the specific site and project brief. Surprisingly, many energy efficiency benefits can be realised through sound decision-making in the early stages of a project, often at no extra cost. Good fundamental design provides a solid foundation for a project’s success.
How does passive solar design play a role in energy efficiency?
Passive solar design is all about orienting living spaces correctly and selecting suitable materials to collect, store, and distribute solar energy without added costs. It’s about getting the right spaces in the right places and capitalising on good design principles. To achieve an energy-efficient home, start with a well-oriented site with sun exposure when facing the views. Then we can choose construction methods that complement the location and prioritise insulation and air tightness to retain energy. We recommend construction methods like ICFs or SIPs (Insulated Concrete Forms or Structural Insulated Panels) to improve air tightness, regulate temperatures, reduce energy costs, and minimise outdoor sound pollution. Traditional timber-framed homes often have small gaps everywhere that leak heat and energy, while these systems significantly improve performance.
What part does design play in establishing performance and value?
We say that great design creates great value. This means that exceptional design enhances every aspect of a building from its aesthetic to its performance and everything in between. This includes the experience for everyone interacting with a building, whether it’s observers, occupants, or future buyers. Great design’s positive impacts endure throughout the building’s life-cycle so the upfront decisions truly count. One of the best things we can do for our clients is follow the KISS principle: Keep it simple, stupid. Wherever possible we aim to reduce design complexity knowing it has a direct corelation with costs. While its easier to determine costs for a new home, its almost impossible to do so with alterations and additions without investment in very detailed designs. These are then handed over to an external Quantity Surveyor or a trusted Building Contractor to reveal actual costs. Unfortunately, bespoke architecture is a little chicken and egg, so it is extremely important to simplify designs wherever possible.
Historically, high performance means high cost. Is that true of homes performing at a passive level?
The future of healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient housing lies in Passive style homes that maintain consistent indoor comfort with minimal energy use for heating, cooling, and ventilation. With advancements in construction technologies, Passive level performance is becoming more affordable and achievable in the Southern Hemisphere. In essence, a Passive Home maintains comfort through continuous thermal insulation, airtight construction, high-quality windows and doors, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), and good passive solar design.
Partnering for progress
Creative Space Architecture’s journey took an unexpected turn when in
early 2018, Regan Little, now general manager, and André started discussing the challenges facing the construction industry. They brainstormed solutions that could raise the bar in quality, durability, technology and performance for housing. Their dream was to take control of the entire process by designing and pre-fabricating buildings in their own controlled environment.
Over the following years, they made steady progress in developing and evolving a range of flexible home designs that would be highly transportable. The next step was to select construction methods and materials that would bring a higher baseline of performance. The final specifications were designed to achieve a ‘Passive Home’ level of performance.
Progress, as exciting as it was, came with its fair share of challenges. André says, “We learned that the biggest hurdles sometimes offered the greatest opportunities. Somewhere along the way, we went from leasing a yard to designing and specifying our own purpose-built architectural offices and prefabrication facility.”
Once on their own site, EvoCo really started to take shape. EvoCo is now in production, operating in temporary digs at 400 Taurikura Drive with construction of the permanent facility anticipated late 2024.
The unity between Creative Space and EvoCo is strengthening both businesses. Creative Space is evolving, returning to its roots in hands-on construction, and EvoCo is benefiting from the wider team's skills available across both businesses. They see a strong future together pushing the boundaries of high-performance architecture and pre-fabrication.
André acknowledges the crucial roles played by his parents as role models, Creative Space and the EvoCo teams, especially Regan Little, Jonno Marshel, Grier Fisher, Abi Hubbard and Glen Hadfield, in making this journey enjoyable and successful.
“This has been an exciting ride, and to be entering production is a dream come true,” says André. EvoCo’s objective for the next year is to refine
their craft, scale their services, and collaborate with clients who share their dream. By mid-to-late 2024, they will move into their new purpose-built factory, evolving their capabilities producing Prefabricated Passive Builds.
EvoCo’s products reflect their commitment to high standards in design, performance, and durability. They incorporate technology that not only reduces living costs but also adds convenience to our increasingly busy lives. Their homes present an exceptional level of performance and quality, with production taking place in a controlled factory environment.
In the realm of performance, EvoCo provides homes that far exceed the current energy efficiency requirements of the building code. These buildings are constructed and tested in EcoCo’s controlled environment before being transported to the site, delivering optimal performance in any climate or earthquake zone.
EvoCo’s target audience includes those who value quality, want to reduce the environmental impact of new builds, and are eager to cut energy costs while enjoying a healthy and comfortable lifestyle.
When André says their homes are smart, he means they build residences equipped with intelligent and automated devices and systems that enhance comfort, convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Nowadays smart homes are not only achievable, the systems and devices are also affordable.
Currently, the EvoCo team is ramping up production, looking for like-minded clients interested in first builds. They have four 35m2 single-bedroom standalone dwellings underway, which can be used individually or customised as a group. Next is a 60m2 two-bedroom dwelling suitable for secondary dwellings on any Western Bay of Plenty site. There are other models right up to a four-bedroom home. Ultimately EvoCo will adjust their production plans based on demand.
The future for Creative Space and EvoCo is seen as a long-term partnership, continuously evolving and enhancing the products they produce. André says, “Really, this has always been about living life to its fullest and having fun doing the things we love. The future should be about the excitement and fun of exceeding our own dreams and expectations.”
Flatmate from hell
Lauren Mabbett’s new roommate is too good to be true – but at least the rent’s being paid
Lauren Mabbett’s new roommate is too good to be true – but at least the rent’s being paid.
Delilah Nunin. When I search her on Facebook, the name doesn't come up. Weird. No Instagram, either. I guess she doesn't like social media.
In early 2020, I move into a cute two-bedroom home in Auckland, and go on the hunt to find a new flatmate. Delilah, or “Del”, sends a lovely message: She's 42, American, a luxury travel agent, clean and tidy. Perfect.
I tell her that rent is $300 a week plus bills, and she gives a “pfft, is that all” type of response. It's an interesting response considering when I ask her to pay bond before she moves in, she refuses, because she has no money until move-in day.
I notice tiny things that seem slightly off, but let them go, like the fact her three children are growing up in America but she's in New Zealand just because she “liked New Zealand more”. I ask her if she’s on social media, but she tells me she goes under different names as she “doesn't want her mum getting all up in her business”. Maybe don't add your mum on Facebook? But okay.
Level 4 lockdown hits. This makes me slightly nervous, as Del is a “luxury travel agent”, and every travel agent I'm hearing about is getting made redundant. Despite this, she convinces me she's the busiest she's ever been, working longer hours to accommodate all the trips being booked. She tells a lot of long-winded stories that don’t quite add up.
Then one day, Del suddenly tells me she needs to find a new place as her parents are coming over and she needs to live with them (this must be the mum she didn’t want all up in her business). Within three days, she's not only found a house, but has been accepted, and is moving this coming weekend. Since we are still on really good terms, she agrees to cover rent for both places until I can replace her (despite her new place being $750 a week).
In the meantime, she's buying a brand-new leather lounge suite. Brand-new dining table. Brand-new TV. Brand-new iPad… For someone who couldn't pay bond right away, I can’t help but think this is a bit suspicious – but as long as she pays rent, whatever.
Over the next few days, Del comes and goes to get a few bits. Her room is still basically full minus her bed, and we keep in touch. I even go to her new house with a pot plant. Two more weeks pass… And then the rent bounces.
I message her asking what happened, and get no reply. I try twice more, then change the locks.
A whole week goes by without hearing from Del. This is SUPER weird, as we talked nearly every day and there'd been no fights or anything. Just as I'm expecting the rent to bounce again, her rent pops in. This is even weirder. If you're going to ghost me, why are you still paying rent?
The rent keeps coming. Week after week.
I reach out on Del’s birthday despite having not heard from her, and notice most people on her Facebook page are calling her Wendy. Don't they know that's her fake name? Suddenly, another week of rent is skipped. But the next week goes in. What the hell is going on? I go away on a girls’ weekend and fill my friends in on the situation. We decide to Google her.
Oh. My. God.
The first article I see is a formal complaint to the Better Business Bureau in the USA regarding a fraudulent travel agent named Delilah Nunin. She ripped a group off of roughly $30,000, and when they tried to get their money back, she gave the special Del brand of long, confusing, complicated answers, then vanished. Several other articles popped up about her different aliases, pyramid schemes, multiple birth dates… The list went on.
About four weeks go by, and I send Del a final message to cover myself, basically saying that if she doesn't pay rent this week I'll be removing her property from the house. No reply.
Right! Time to pour a wine, invite a friend over, and have a field day going through what she left behind. And oh, boy. Do we ever.
We start sorting through piles of documents, handbags, folders, diaries, boxes. Pretty much everything minus her bed was left there. (Let me just reiterate I'd made multiple attempts by this point to reach her, and also consulted a lawyer to protect my terrified wee backside.)
Straight away I find her passport; it's under the name Delilah Nunin - and it seems real. Why the heck would you leave that behind? I find a wallet with multiple credit cards, eftpos cards, and other cards (all current) inside. Letters requesting to change her IRD number, multiple name tags with different names on them, it doesn't stop. I then find several letters from debt collectors demanding payments of upwards of $20,000. I can only imagine this may have played a part in Del’s sudden move.
My face is starting to look like Tim Curry in Home Alone 2 when he discovers Kevin's credit card is stolen.
I find an iPad – sweet. Maybe I can sell this to make up for that $600 in Del’s rent I'm now paying. A voucher for a night away in a deluxe room with breakfast included? Strange but okay.
I then Google her “luxury travel agency” and find it's been raided and shut down for fraud.
The next thing I find makes me physically shake; she'd been advertising her room in my flat for rent, and replying to comments of interest. Replies that were sent three days ago, when we hadn't spoken in weeks, and she's had no access to the house. I can only imagine this is some
ploy to take people’s bond and scarper.
We then turn to Del’s wardrobe and discover it's literally jammed full of clothes, at a guess around 300 pieces, which are all brand-new, expensive, labelled, and in significantly different sizes.
Well, I did what any burned roommate would do, and went shopping in there. I now own a few pieces from The Del Collection *flicks hair and looks at camera*, and the Sallies and Recycle Boutique got the rest.
To this day, I still have not heard from the mysterious Delilah Nunin again. I can confirm her parents are not here and never were. I have passed on her new address to the debt collectors.
All that aside, I am looking forward to my night away in a deluxe room with breakfast included. Thanks, mate.
Listen to Lauren weekdays 9am to 3pm on The Hits 95.0FM.