03 Magazine: July 05, 2024

the South island lifestyle magazine JULY 2024 

the 

South 

island 

lifestyle 

magazine 

FREE | JULY 2024 

SURF’S UP! THE FAMILY HAVING OH-SO-MUCH FUN ON THEIR BEACHFRONT BANKS PENINSULA FARM | A FASHION COLLAB WITH 

125-YEAR-OLD DUNEDIN FOOTWEAR COMPANY MCKINLAYS KICKS OFF IN SELL-OUT STYLE | THE AWARD-WINNING WĀNAKA HOME 

DESIGNED AS AN ADAPTABLE ALPINE/URBAN RETREAT | WHEN HEARTY MEETS HEARTWARMING: NICI WICKES’ FRENCH ONION SOUP 

& TAMARILLO CLAFOUTIS | PUNCTURES, PANNIERS & BARBIE-PINK SHALWAR KAMEEZ: THE KIWI BESTIES WHO BIKEPACKED PAKISTAN

Open spaces, places to play, 

friends to meet, it’s all here at 

Arbor Green. Whether you’re 

a growing family, downsizer 

or up-and-comer, whatever 

kind of life you imagine, 

there’s a home for you here.

Qestral Cooking Classes… 

Cooking classes at the Alpine View and Banbury Park Lifestyle Villages in 

Christchurch. 

They are part of an extensive range of activities and events for residents to 

develop skills… and foster friendships, at Qestral villages. 

New Generation Lifestyle Villages...

Qestral.co.nz | alpineview.co.nz | banburypark.co.nz 

burlingtonvillage.co.nz | coastalview.co.nz | ashburyheights.co.nz

Sending this issue to print on the eve of Matariki 

celebrations (which means a long winter weekend for 

many, that I hope you enjoyed with family, friends, 

feasting and stargazing), it strikes me that much of 

the content is a low-key love letter to the cold season, 

notes and nods to ways to warm body, mind and soul 

and enjoy/be inspired by the best that our wintry 

weather offers (whether that’s joyfully staying inside 

or heading energetically into the great outdoors). 

Nici Wickes’ utterly gorgeous recipes and 

accompanying musings from page 52 feel very 

welcome right now (and we have more wise words 

from this most thoughtful of Kiwi foodies to come 

in future issues), while our interview with current 

Cantabrian and former Wānaka resident Georgia 

Merton (page 48), whose recent bikepacking trip 

through Pakistan with bestie Isobel Ewing has me 

considering the concept of travel, and our own 

mountains and alpine communities, in a new light. 

And then there’s Rachel and Kristin Savage (plus 

Pippin, Fern and Chip), whose wild and wonderful 

adventures on their beachside farm on Banks 

Peninsula I’ve followed on social media for many 

years, and which I’m delighted to share some of 

(along with the most addictive maple popcorn recipe 

ever) in our cover feature on page 28. 

Enjoy! 

PUBLISHER 

Charlotte Smith-Smulders 

Allied Press Magazines 

Level 1, 359 Lincoln Road, Christchurch 

03 379 7100 

EDITOR 

Josie Steenhart 

josie@alliedpressmagazines.co.nz 

DESIGNERS 

Annabelle Rose, Hannah Mahon, Rodney Grey, Lauren McDonald 

PROOFREADER 

Mitch Marks 

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 

Janine Oldfield 

027 654 5367 

janine@alliedpressmagazines.co.nz 

CONTRIBUTORS 

Casey Moore, Georgia Merton, Helen Templeton, Jackson Bright, 

Kim Dungey, Linda Robertson, Neville Templeton, Nici Wickes, 

Rachel Savage, Rebecca Fox, Ruby Hamilton, Ruby Holland, Todd Eyre 

Every month, 03 (ISSN 2816-0711) shares the latest in lifestyle, home, 

food, fashion, beauty, arts and culture with its discerning readers. 

Enjoy 03 online (ISSN 2816-072X) at 03magazine.co.nz 

Allied Press Magazines, a division of Allied Press Ltd, is not responsible for any actions taken 

on the information in these articles. The information and views expressed in this publication 

are not necessarily the opinion of Allied Press Ltd or its editorial contributors. 

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information within this magazine, however, 

Allied Press Ltd can accept no liability for the accuracy of all the information. 

Josie Steenhart, editor 

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What's Behind the 

Allure of an Award 

If you drive past any real estate company at 

this time of year, particularly those belonging 

to the same brand as we do, you’ll probably 

notice some kind of award marketing at 

play. Acknowledgment of success for client 

service, sales volumes (dependent on the size 

of the office, company or franchise), auction 

excellence and property management are 

the most common. 

There’s a strong desire to compete for the 

public’s attention and it can’t be easy for 

anyone to decipher exactly what it all means, 

which is why I’ve often been asked ‘how can 

there be so many number-one offices or 

franchises?’. 

It comes down to metrics, or measurements 

that allow you to track performance and 

productivity. 

In Harcourts, one such metric looks at the 

size of an office based on the number of 

consultants they have and then how they 

compare to other offices of the same size 

across New Zealand, hence number one, 

two and three awards for small, medium and 

large offices. 

There are also international awards, which 

look at productivity based on the volume of 

revenue produced. Next come the awards 

for consultants, which acknowledge 30 

consultants working for our brand out of 

almost 500 consultants in our fair city. 

Then there are awards for the top 20 

consultants in New Zealand (out of over 

2,500 in total) and the top 20 internationally 

(out of a staggering 6,800 agents across 10 

countries). 

Yes, I know that’s a lot of acknowledgement 

and it’s a little confusing, but if you cut through 

the rhetoric, it’s worth considering the 

following: should I work with an individual, 

team or company that is award-winning? 

Will working with people acknowledged for 

results and performance make a difference 

to the price that’s achieved? 

I happen to believe it does, but there are 

questions to ask first. 

Are their results staggering or paper thin? 

This question refers to both the agents and 

the companies. 

Is their award local or international, and is 

it for doing more than any other company 

could or does do? 

Are their consultants household names, 

achieving consistently year on year, or even 

rookies who have come along, fresh and 

fabulous, with the energy to take the world 

on? 

And, finally, when you contact them, do 

they respond with purpose and exceptional 

knowledge? 

Although it’s hard to gauge which are the 

‘best’ awards, it’s those coveted ‘number 

ones’ which herald a company or individual 

that’s worth investigating and considering. 

After all, when you’re thinking, what am I 

going to do with my precious family home or 

investment property, it’s vital to get it right. 

And getting it right starts with knowledge, so 

here’s what I know for sure. 

We are lucky here in Christchurch that there 

is a tremendous amount of excellence 

and expertise across a number of different 

offices and franchises, but of all the many 

businesses the one I know the best is the one 

I’m part of. 

And what awards did we win? 

The number-one residential office for 

Harcourts in NZ (Papanui). 

The number-one office for income, income 

per sales consultant, number of auctions, 

auctions per sales consultant … and 

the number-one office out of almost 870 

internationally. This large scoop of awards 

has been an annual occurrence year after 

year after year for our Papanui office, as the 

award for NZ’s top franchise for income per 

sales consultant has been for our company. 

In addition to this, this year there was 

an excellence award for our property 

management division and our snazzy 

best-presented (yes, that’s also an award) 

Spitfire Square office. Our incredible team of 

consultants were also award-winners across 

local, national and international platforms, 

and I’m constantly in awe of their staggering 

results. 

Cameron Bailey, the number-one 

agent across every brand in NZ and the 

international number-one for Harcourts 

stands out as the ultimate professional, 

and this time he was joined internationally 

by Michelle Fu and Mark Wang. On other 

occasions it’s been Mary Turnbull and Mark 

O’Loughlin. 

Although it’s usually my preference to let 

actions do the talking rather than words, 

this year – a year full of turmoil and change, 

where all most people want is some certainty 

and a safe place to land – I thought I’d shine 

a light on a group of people and a company 

that epitomizes what it means to be awardwinning. 

I hope you’ll allow my deep pride to show on 

this singular occasion. 

Lynette McFadden 

Harcourts gold Business Owner 

027 432 0447 

lynette.mcfadden@harcourtsgold.co.nz 

PAPANUI 352 6166 | INTERNATIONAL DIVISION (+64) 3 662 9811 | REDWOOD 352 0352 | PARKLANDS 383 0406 | 

SPITFIRE SQUARE 662 9222 | STROWAN 351 0585 | GOLD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 352 6454 | 

SPITFIRE SQUARE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 027 772 1188 

GOLD REAL ESTATE GROUP LTD LICENSED AGENT REAA 2008 A MEMBER OF THE HARCOURTS GROUP 

www.harcourtsgold.co.nz

10 Magazine | Contents 

In this issue 

22 

INTERIORS 

38 Alpine urban retreat 

An intergenerational “masterpiece” build 

COVER FEATURE 

28 Bay dreams 

One family’s beachfront farm, 

surf school and charming 

accommodation 

HOME 

22 Most wanted 

What the 03 team are coveting 

this month 

FASHION & BEAUTY 

24 Puffed up 

Stay snug in a quilted, padded 

and puffy wardrobe 

26 Top shelf 

The best tools and treats for 

health and beauty 

36 Fashion meets heritage 

Dunedin’s iconic footwear 

collab where old-school cool 

meets newcomer chic 

Resene 

Code Red 

COLOURS OF 

THE MONTH 

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12 Magazine | Contents 

52 

OUR COVER 

48 

Hickory Bay farm and cold-water 

surf resort on Banks Peninsula. 

Photo: Jackson Bright 

Resene 

Celebrate 

READ US ONLINE 

Resene 

Gulf Stream 

TRAVEL 

48 Bikepacking in Pakistan 

A month spent cycling through Pakistan 

results in an award-winning short film 

for two former Wānaka residents 

ARTS & CULTURE 

60 Picking up the threads 

Groundbreaking textile artist Margery 

Blackman’s retrospective weaves its magic 

64 Book club 

Great reads to please even the 

pickiest of bookworms 

FOOD 

52 Back in the quiet kitchen 

Nici Wickes’ drool-worthy winter 

warming menu 

REGULARS 

14 Newsfeed 

What’s up, in, chat-worthy, cool, 

covetable and compelling right now 

66 Win 

Four Hydro Flask bottles, Nici 

Wickes’ new cookbook and a year’s 

subscription to 03 

FIND US ON SOCIAL 

03magazine.co.nz | @03_magazine 

GET A COPY 

Want 03 Magazine delivered straight 

to your mailbox? Contact: 

charlotte@alliedpressmagazines.co.nz 

Could your cross-lease 

property be worth more 

as a freehold? 

It costs nothing to 

find out. 

For a free quote get in touch today. 

0800 XLEASE (953 273) 

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hello@goodtitle.co.nz

FIND YOUR 

DREAM HOME 

Harcourts Otago latest eBluebook now available 

www.harcourtsotago.co.nz 

Scan here to view 

our current edition

14 Magazine | Newsfeed 

Newsfeed 

What’s up, in, chat-worthy, cool, covetable and compelling right now, 

specially compiled for those in the south. 

Cider on 

“We’ve long wanted a place where we can share our drinks 

and cook for you all, so it’s very exciting to be creating a space 

that is designed for just that,” say the owners of Christchurch’s 

newest wine/cider/pizza spot Lillies at 495 St Asaph Street. 

Located in a former industry building and created to 

showcase their own delicious locally produced bevvies (the 

cider is produced on-site), there’s also a cosy fireplace and 

an enormous pizza oven slinging creatively topped pies from 

spicy squid ragu to leek and cheddar, plus a handful of “not 

pizza” options – and soft-serve for dessert. 

@lillies.lillies.lillies 

Welcome home 

South Island indie music lovers rejoice – the legendary Flying 

Nun Records now has a brand new permanent retail home 

in Christchurch for all your vinyl needs (plus turntables, 

merch, CDs, books and more) – located in the Terrace 

Arcade (near Scorpio Books). The slick new store will also 

play host to regular in-store appearances and gigs. 

flyingnun.co.nz 

In bloom 

As diehard fans of top fashion talent (and former 

Cantabrian!) Georgia Currie’s former label Georgia 

Alice, we’re thrilled at the news she’s just released 

a new multidisciplinary brand, Flowers. Made in 

New Zealand and featuring Georgia’s signature spin 

on shirting, structured skirts and knitwear (and 

currently exclusive to Simon James), Flowers aims to 

“blur the line between aspirational and casual”. 

simonjames.co.nz

face value 

experts in the 

Male aesthetic 

For years, women have chosen cosmetic treatments 

to feel and look their best. Men are now catching on 

– in a big way! 

Cosmetic procedures are seen as part of regular grooming 

and maintenance, and Face Value’s Dr Philip Frost 

stresses the importance of understanding the difference in 

aesthetics between beautifying and glamorising a female 

face and enhancing the attractiveness and masculinisation 

of the male. 

“The male face requires different ratios and sharpening 

of angles, avoiding feminising and softening of features,” 

he says. 

A strong and well-proportioned chin, jawline, brow and 

cheekbones can be achieved using dermal fillers to create 

a more chiselled, angular and stronger profile. 

Botulinum Toxin minimises the frown, forehead and lines 

around the eyes, and again, doses and placement are 

tailored to suit the male face. 

Men are also taking better care of their skin overall, seeking 

professional-grade skincare and sun protection, and 

solutions for excess sweating, enlarged pores, pigment and 

facial vessels. 

Finally, don’t forget the scalp! Face Value offers a bespoke 

treatment plan to address the common concern of male 

pattern hair loss. 

Come and see us now for a complimentary consultation... 

For a personal consultation at no charge please call 03 363 8810 

145 Innes Road (corner of Rutland St and Innes Rd), 

Merivale, Christchurch 

www.facevalue.co.nz


Well suited 

For those craving a put-together wardrobe that can be effortlessly 

mixed and matched no matter the occasion or season, Juliette 

Hogan’s new ‘Foundation Suiting’ capsule might be just the ticket. 

Featuring a considered edit of classic structured pieces from pants 

to blazers in high quality materials and in both Black and Chalk, 

these elegant staples are designed to work perfectly together or 

to add polish to any ensemble. 

juliettehogan.com 

So vanilla 

The brand new cake kit from Kiwi baking 

fave The Caker (aka Jordan Rondel) has us 

literally salivating. Say hello and “get in my 

mouth” to the Double Vanilla Sprinkle cake kit, 

utilising award-winning New Zealand-owned, 

Tongan‐produced Heilala vanilla. “Resonating 

with my own ethos, Heilala founder Jennifer 

Boggiss says her vanilla is ‘the delicious, joyous, 

much-loved ingredient added to life’s great 

moments’,” says Jordan. “I love Heilala because, 

unlike a lot of vanilla products, it’s cold-pressed. 

This creates some serious vanilla flavours that 

cut through and linger long after the last bite. 

The baked cake sort of gives fairy bread, sort of 

vanilla ice cream, sort of just amazing.” 

thecaker.co.nz 

Director’s choice 

Embark on a unique journey through the diverse collections 

of Tūhura Otago Museum with Director’s Choice, an 

exhibition curated to celebrate Ian Griffin’s decade-long 

tenure as director. With more than 1.5 million artefacts 

spanning history, culture, nature, and science to draw on, the 

exhibition offers a glimpse into Ian’s personal connections 

with select items, while also exploring the fascinating stories 

behind their acquisition. From worms to ancient antiquities, 

British coins to moa eggs, the exhibition showcases the 

breadth and depth of the Museum’s holdings, inviting visitors 

to connect emotionally with these objects regardless of their 

background. Runs until 16 March, 2025. 

otagomuseum.nz

稀攀戀爀愀渀漀


Spice up your life 

Taking note of the cult following behind chilli margs 

globally, kiwi cocktail co Batched introduces their 

highly anticipated Pineapple and Chilli Margarita. 

The perfect way to warm up winter, this innovative 

‘Shake & Pour’ concoction (which guarantees a 

signature foamy top just like you’d get at a bar) is 

made using authentic Mexican tequila and jalapeños, 

tempered with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. 

batched.co.nz 

Knit wit 

Constructed with a marled palette of 19 unique 

and repurposed colours, Kowtow’s four-piece 

capsule ‘Reimagine 03’ (featuring a cardigan, 

sweater, vest and hood scarf) is a nod to the 

nostalgia that’s so often embedded in knitwear. 

Stripe and silhouette pay homage to vintage 

ski-wear staples, while considered details 

bring a contemporary touch to familiar forms. 

‘Reimagined’ from surplus yarns, Reimagine 03 

is the third release in a series utilising materials 

from previous Kowtow collections recreated 

into new forms. 

kowtowclothing.com 

Actively good 

Our favourite ethical undie brand has brought 

back its sought-after Active range for 2024, now 

featuring low- to zero-waste activewear that 

doesn’t compromise on comfort or cool. In 

shades from Plum, Fern and Ink to classic Black, 

the Erma leggings and Beatrice bike shorts have 

been cleverly cut so the pieces of the patterns 

tessellate into each other like a jigsaw, so no fabric 

is wasted, while the Ashley bra, Eliza crop top and 

Jack Lovelock boxer briefs are “as low waste as we 

could get them”. All designs have retained the fit 

that Nisa’s activewear is known for – high-waisted, 

comfortable, long-lasting and made from a buttery 

soft recycled nylon/spandex blend. 

nisa.co.nz

Newsfeed | Magazine 19 

Tuscany meets Tarras 

Situated in the heart of newly redeveloped Tarras 

Village, gateway to Central Otago and the main 

thoroughfare to Wānaka and Queenstown, the 

newly opened Bendigo Wine Cellar takes its 

inspiration from both local climes and the Italian 

wine region of Tuscany, with a soft palette of 

blush tiles, taupe-painted rough-cast walls, schist, 

sheepskin rugs and wood furnishings. Founders 

Christina and Callum Grant of Bendigo Station are 

also behind luxury knitwear brand Perriam, the 

Tarras Village Store and the Merino Shop, which 

was handed down by Christina’s parents. The wine 

list was inspired by the vineyards that grace the 

hills of Bendigo Station, and with the option of 

tasting or taking home, the Cellar presents a range 

of the best wines in the region. 

@tarrasvillage_ 

Spin me round 

With music playing such a major role in the inception of 

the I Love Ugly fashion brand, it has become a pillar 

of the ILU community, with monthly playlists and music 

recommendations featuring established artists, so the team 

felt it was time to explore and showcase some emerging 

local independent artists. Cue a very cool collaboration with 

Holiday Records, which welcomed submissions from indie 

musicians from around the world that were then whittled 

down to a final 12 to be featured on a compilation vinyl 

record. “We’ve wanted to venture into the music space for a 

long time,” says ILU founder Valentin Ozich. “Music is a core 

part of I Love Ugly’s DNA and has influenced much of our 

creative output. Creating a tangible product dedicated solely 

to music felt like a natural progression for us.” 

iloveugly.co.nz 

Oh là là 

One of the much-anticipated releases 

from MONDAY Haircare founder Jaimee 

Lupton’s new bevy of beauty brands, 

Châlon Paris is an affordable and super 

stylish collection of luxury hand and body 

care. Infused with skincare fave hyaluronic 

acid and blended with pure essential oils 

blended by a leading Parisian perfumer, 

the initial Châlon range includes body 

and hand washes and lotions in Rose & 

Sandalwood, Lavender & Chamomile and 

Mandarin & Basil, each designed to linger 

long after use using fragrance technology 

that releases double the scent molecules. 

chalonparis.com


Jump to it 

Our favourite cosy collab is back for 2024 with 

knitwear company Standard Issue once again 

partnering with Middlemore Foundation for its 

Jumper for Jumper initiative (which to date has 

donated more than 2600 woollen jumpers). For 

every Standard Issue jumper purchased online or 

in-store this winter, they’ll knit another jumper 

in their Tāmaki Makaurau workroom to gift to a 

child in need of an extra layer of warmth. Want 

to get involved but not in need of new knits? 

You can also purchase a child’s jumper separately 

for $30, which the team will then whip up and 

donate on your behalf. 

standardissue.co.nz 

Laundry day 

Abel, pioneers in 100 percent natural fragrance and 

biotechnology, evoke the freshness of a crisp spring day 

with their latest scent, Laundry Day – a verdant, sunfilled 

citrus that opens on a zesty cut grass and biotech 

aldehyde accord, with an upcycled passionfruit and lime 

heart and a rich vetiver base. Abel founder Frances 

Shoemack says she was inspired by the energy and 

freshness of spring. “That evocative time of year when 

windows are flung open to let the outside back in, the 

scent of fresh grass fills the air, and laundry is once again 

hung outside – a ritualistic joy.” 

abelfragrance.com 

Berry good 

The colourful line-up of additive, sugar and preservative 

free, charcoal-filtered sparkling water by New Zealand’s 

Almighty Beverages has just welcomed a juicy new 

flavour: Blackberry Raspberry. Almighty’s Ben Lenart 

says they wanted to build on the popularity of their 

other double flavour combos such as Yuzu & Lime and 

Peach & Ginger to offer a layered taste combination 

with every sip. “Berries are surprisingly nuanced, we 

wanted to make sure we captured the perfect blend of 

wild and ripe juiciness along with a subtle tartness and 

just the right amount of sweetness,” he says. 

drinkalmighty.com

WINTER ‘24 - SHOES & ACCESSORIES 

WWW.NICOLEREBSTOCK.COM 

COMMERCIAL BAY & NEWMARKET, AUCKLAND I THE CROSSING, CHRISTCHURCH

22 Magazine | Wishlist 

Most wanted 

From moreish metallics and pale blue hues to chic wet weather attire and 

covetable books and albums, here’s what the 03 team are wishlisting this month. 

3 

4 

1 

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6 

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1. Luna mirror in Gold, $1200 at A&C Homestore; 2. Ilse Jacobsen detachable hood raincoat in Blue Cloud, $449 at Zebrano; 

3. Superette silver-plated armbands, $19; 4. Adriana Picker Blossom: Practical and Creative Ways to Find Wonder in the Floral 

World, Hardie Grant Books, $50; 5. Guerlain Météorites Light-Revealing Pearls of Powder in Cool/Rosé, $130; 6. Ohen 

Teardrop bra, $129, and The Highrise brief, $60, both in Periwinkle; 7. Deadly Ponies Mr Cinch pouch in Tinfoil Metallic, $449; 

8. Art+Acre jade scalp gua sha, $90 at Mecca; 9. Gioseppo GIO Hamie shoes in Fuchsia, $229 at Wink; 10. Aesop Eleos 

Aromatique hand balm 75ml, $49; 11. Crowded House Gravity Stairs Cloudy Blue vinyl, $72; 12. Underground Sundae Nerdz 

ruby and sterling silver studs, $150 at Company of Strangers; 13. Penelope Chilvers Oscar leather boots in Khaki/Tea Rose, 

$569 at Rangiora Equestrian; 14. Hydro Flask 1.13L All Around travel tumbler in Lupine, $99

Do you have 

unwanted, broken 

or worn out 

gold jewellery? 

• All forms bought, including Alluvial 

• We also buy Antique Jewellery 

Gold & Silver Bullion/Coins Bought & Sold 

Trusted since 1967

24 Magazine | Fashion 

Puffed up 

Take up space in the most stylish (and snug) way this winter by 

adding something puffy to your ensemble – whether it’s a classic 

quilted jacket, a versatile vest or a playfully padded accessory. 

1 2 

3 

14 

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6 

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1. P.E Nation All Around jacket in Chestnut, $330 at Company Store; 2. The North Face Thermoball Traction V mules in Black, $160; 

3. RUBY Harriet quilted vest in Navy Daisy, $249; 4. Kate Sylvester Quilted jacket in Green, $399; 

5. Superette Davis vest in Blush, $279; 6. Maggie Marilyn Puffer coat, $695; 7. Juliette Hogan recycled down puffer jacket in Olive, $529; 

8. Marle Piper jacket, $620; 9. Moochi Stride quilted vest in Teal Blue, $330; 10. Deadly Ponies Mr Futon Mini bag in Smoke, $649; 

11. Karen Walker Mega Monogram jacket in Ecru, $375; 12. Ilse Jacobsen Quilted Hood jacket in Dark Indigo, $499 at Zebrano; 

13. Teva ReEmber sneakers in Incense, $180; 14. Isabel Marant Dylany puffer jacket, $1598 at Workshop

T H E C O U N T R Y C L A S S I C S 

Mountainsides have been scaled, mud has been squelched, gallons of water has been 

sloshed and still our Dubarry leather country boots keep on going. 

From our heroic signature Galway boot to the wide choice of colours, fits and styles in the 

collection, our GORE-TEX® lined, waterproof, breathable boots are the ones to beat. 

Available exclusively from Rangiora Equestrian Supplies, www.rangiorasaddlery.co.nz. 

Galway GORE-TEX boots in Walnut

26 Magazine | Health & beauty 

Top shelf 

From heavenly inhalers and elevating eye creams to bold blue liquid 

shadows, sustainable periodwear, pretty pink hair tools for a good 

cause and innovative odour-neutralising hand washes, here’s what the 

03 team are testing this month in health and beauty. 

1 

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1. Antipodes Glory Vitamin C Triple-Action Glow toner, $40; 2. Shiseido RevitalEssence Skin Glow primer, $83 

3. ghd Pink limited edition Helios hair dryer in Fondant Pink, $390 ($20 from every purchase donated to BCFNZ); 

4. Act+Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell scalp serum, $161 at Mecca; 5. CIRCA Alchemy Grapefruit & Cedarwood hand 

wash, $30; 6. Dermalogica Phyto Nature Lifting eye cream, $237; 7. VIOLETTE_FR Yeux Paint liquid eyeshadow in Dieu Bleu, 

$58 at Mecca; 8. INXHALE Olfactory inhaler in Calm, $95; 9. TOM Organic cotton reusable pad, $18

Bay dreams 

Rachel and Kristin Savage and their three children Pippin (12), Fern (10) 

and Chip (3) are the happy inhabitants of Hickory Bay, a beachfront 

farm on Banks Peninsula that also plays host to a surf school and some 

charmingly eclectic accommodation. 

INTERVIEW JOSIE STEENHART

Feature | Magazine 29 

Tell us a little bit about yourselves… 

Kristin: I grew up in Wellington, a registered teacher, and 

was founding president of Wellington Boardriders, having 

been involved in boardriders’ clubs for years prior to 

coming to the farm. 

We were happily living in Wellington but always had 

the desire to take the plunge into a business venture that 

we’d be able to get our teeth into creatively and use our 

skill and talent in a commercial way. 

Rachel: We’re Kristin and Rachel, and we have three 

young kids. Originally from the city, but our children were 

born here. We love the country life. Kristin is a teacherturned-farmer. 

I was a nurse – but I love creating food 

and sort of fell into writing about it. 

Becoming a mum really captured my inner kid, and I 

wanted to revisit that nostalgia with our whānau. We bake 

a lot and often have campfire picnics with huts outdoors. 

When/why did you move to Hickory Bay? 

K: We were happy in our careers in Wellington. Kristin 

as a commerce teacher at Wellington College and Rachel 

as a flight retrieval nurse in ICU, always with creative 

ventures on the side – property development, kids’ 

clothing, surfing ventures, food ventures. 

Flicking through a farming magazine one day in the 

South Island when visiting family for Christmas 2010, we 

saw the advertisement for Hickory Bay Farm, being sold 

by the then owner David de Rothschild, a British eco 

adventurer/explorer who had converted the property to 

its certified organic status in his time as owner. 

We went and had a look and could immediately see 

the potential (and good surf!) plus all the challenges and 

opportunities the property posed, knowing there were 

seeds of a great proposition there. 

I already knew there were good waves there, being a 

kiwi surfer, and was aware of its reputation as a powerful, 

consistent, hollow beach break. 

R: It’s the best and wildest thing we’ve ever done! On 

reflection, we really did let our hearts run faster than our 

heads – the prospect of the adventure was exhilarating. 

We’d look at each other and ask, “Are we really going to 

do this?” (It totally was a rhetorical question, because we 

didn’t want the other person to say no.) 

I’m beginning to appreciate how perfectly Hickory Bay 

wears each season. The foliage and vegetation, bird and 

animal life, sea and sky, are dressed like a seasonal fashion 

show and it’s captivating to watch. 

It’s a very special place – the magic and the beauty of 

living here isn’t ever lost on us. 

What was it like when you arrived? 

K: 2011, though not long ago, was a different time. Surfing 

wasn’t as much of a mainstream family activity that it now 

has become, even in those 13 short years. 

The property was a blank canvas. Teeming with potential 

but needing a lot of physical effort and investment to bring 

it back to a profitable, smooth-running farm operation. This 

was the first priority. Sort the farming side, then worry 

about what came next afterward. We’d have to earn the 

right to diversify through setting things up on the farm 

properly in the first instance. 

How did we know what to do? At the start it was 

just about looking at what was broken and working out 

a way to fix it. One day at a time, one issue at a time. 

It was a steep learning curve, going from teaching to 

farming. We’ve often thought since that a little bit of 

naivety can go a long way, because if we knew the scale 

of what we were getting ourselves into we’d potentially 

not have taken the plunge. 

Rachel grew up on a farm so had it all on tap in terms 

of instinct, and family support enabled us to learn the 

ropes and get established. 

The property was certified organic. We maintained 

that as we aligned with the ethos of a low-input 

operation farm-wise. Now it’s worked out as we can 

balance both the farming side of things with the more 

people-focused, resort side of the operation. 

R: I often ask Kristin if he can recollect what he did on 

his first day here, making the jump from teacher to 

farmer. I remember taking a while to find my feet, but I 

found my groove. 

Before moving to Hickory Bay, I’d visit the supermarket 

often because it was just down the road. Suddenly, 

things were a bit different – we had to get used to either 

growing it or having it stocked in the pantry – or if 

neither of those options were a possibility, then making 

do without it. I remember having friends staying and 

running out of garlic – I’ve only made that mistake once. 

It’s really rewarding working towards self-sufficiency 

and while we’ve got a way to go, it certainly prepares 

you for weather events and power outages (and those 

introverted days when it’s nice to stay home). 

The challenge felt big, but exciting. The vision is 

constantly evolving and changing. While the scope is big, 

it is a wonderful canvas to dream about. 

“I’m beginning to appreciate how 

perfectly Hickory Bay wears each 

season. The foliage and vegetation, 

bird and animal life, sea and sky, are 

dressed like a seasonal fashion show 

and it’s captivating to watch.”

LEFT TOP & BOTTOM: Photos: Jackson Bright 

PREVIOUS PAGE: Photo: Jackson Bright 

And what changes have you made? 

K: In terms of farm infrastructure, we’ve invested a huge 

amount of time and effort into robust stock water 

systems, fencing upgrades and splitting paddocks into 

smaller, more suitable sizes. 

We’ve essentially worked toward setting the farm up 

to enable its smooth operation, in conjunction with the 

surfing resort. 

Built a new home, as the old homestead built in 1912 

was, sadly, beyond repair. 

We’ve converted the woolshed into an area with an 

office, accommodation laundry and an event facility. We 

use this during the resort or surfing institute events. The 

woolshed upgrade has become a great use of a space 

that would otherwise be sitting dormant, as we no 

longer graze sheep at Hickory Bay Farm. 

R: Some things have changed, and then some things have 

stayed the same. 

The property was certified organic when we moved 

here, which felt like a great fit and aligned with our values, 

so we’ve continued that. 

We began offering accommodation after building a 

new home within the old homestead site. We lived in the 

Cottage (the biggest dwelling) for the first six years spent 

here and loved living there, with bucket loads of memories. 

We had a hunch it would be enjoyed by others, too. 

Hickory Bay has long been a favourite surfing and beach 

destination for many, having the ability to stay here has 

been well received. 

The Cabin (the smallest site) was traditionally the 

shearers’ quarters. 

Unashamedly rustic, yet thoughtfully put together, the 

idea was to create comfortable, authentic spaces that 

capture an easygoing ‘beach house’ feeling, so guests 

feel like they’re on holiday from the moment they walk 

in the door. 

They’re places that can be enjoyed by young and old, 

intentionally family friendly. We added ’80s milkshake 

makers a while back, and they get a lot of use – both 

by those young at heart, and the young’uns. That makes 

me smile! 

Each place has been lovingly cobbled together with 

an eclectic mix of old and new; colourful and fun. We’re 

proud to use New Zealand products such as Dehei 

organic bed sheets; Ashley & Co scents; Flight instant 

coffee and welcome postcards created by our friend 

Ruby Jones. 

Tell us a bit about the surfing side of things… 

K: The surf at Hickory is really consistent. It’s a magnet 

for most swell directions that the East Coast is exposed 

to and the other positive is that the predominant wind is 

favourable for clean waves, even in a summer northeast 

sea breeze. The waves are powerful and well-shaped, 

which suits surfers. 

One of the biggest bonuses is that it’s uncrowded. 

The walk through the paddocks for the public is a 

beautiful entrance to the coast, greeting visitors with an 

elevated view of the bay.


A few years ago, we set up the Hickory Bay Surfing 

Institute, a registered charitable trust, with the purpose being 

‘community wellbeing and connection through surfing’. 

We operate a chapter of the Surfing for Farmers 

initiative in the summer months, among other surf- or 

music-based events out of the Institute (woolshed) area. 

We’ll surf, have a yarn around the fire, cook some food 

together on the firepit and connect as a community. 

R: Kristin has a long (almost 40 years – whoops is that 

giving too much away?!) history with surfing. He has 

never forgotten discovering surfing and its community. 

Over the years, more and more research has shown 

the huge physical, psychological and emotional benefits 

that surfing has to offer. This quite naturally led into 

surfing-based community work – namely surfing with the 

local community and partnering with surfing for farmers. 

I’ve witnessed first-hand how surfing has positively 

impacted our family, so it’s rewarding to be able to 

participate in something that benefits others, too. 

Our kids are fortunate to grow up with an incredible 

world-class surf beach on their doorstep. I’ll paddle out 

occasionally (with humbling reassurance from the kids 

such as, “WOW, mum. You’re going surfing? Are you 

sure you can swim?!”). 

Kristin seems to have a bit more confidence with the 

kid-crowd! 

And the accommodation… 

K: The Cottage is a bright 1960s bungalow which was 

built for the farm manager. It needed lots of TLC when 

we arrived and though many rooms had French doors, 

there was only a small deck. It was asking for a deck the 

whole length of the house to link it all so we got to work 

on that early on. 

There’s a nice feel to the Cottage. Every room boasts 

a view of the farm, which would’ve been helpful as farm 

manager to get a perspective of what was happening 

with stock. It’s been well set up in that regard. 

I always remember moving into our newly built home 

and our daughter saying she wanted to go back to the 

Cottage. It had that homely feel which we’ve tried to 

keep going now it is part of the Surfing Resort. 

The Cabin was the original shearers’ quarters and has a 

cosy, holiday feel. We’ve kept a lot of the original character 

and didn’t want to over-develop it – but with hot tub, 

fire‐pit and the cedar barrel sauna available for guests of 

the resort to use, it makes for a unique, special experience 

– not to mention the world class waves, which peel off 

with uncanny consistency. 

Most challenging/rewarding parts so far/along the way? 

K: Seeing the positive changes to the farm, the health of 

the pastures and the regenerating bush blocks. Enabling 

people who used to surf here on their own in the ’80s, 

’90s and 2000s able to now book the accommodation – 

come and surf, then stay over, and bring their partner or 

families to enjoy! 

Challenges with weather and remoteness come and 

go. It’s so changeable and wild, and rugged. That’s part of 

the charm and part of the attraction. 

R: The people we’ve met, the connections that we 

make – it’s a special place that many people have fond 

memories of and stories about. The remoteness only 

adds to the adventure! 

What are some of the special places/details of Hickory 

Bay for each of you? 

K: Hickory Bay, was, in the late 1800s, home to 

approximately 90 people working on the totara timber 

mill operation. There was even a school, started in the 

1920s I believe, and much tree planting was done by 

previous owners. 

The walk to the beach for guests includes a stroll past 

kauri trees, growing on the valley floor, planted in the 

1950s by the Grigg family. They’re growing well and are a 

special part of the story here. 

R: So many special places and many more yet to discover 

– but I would have to say the creeks. For the kids it’s a 

50/50 split between the beach and the creek. 

Anything else people might be surprised/interested 

to learn? 

K: Troy Kingi played an intimate show in the woolshed 

in 2018 at our See You In The Soup surfing and music 

festival. Good times, great memories. 

The creek has a well-established family of longfin eels, 

and feeding them with our kids is the best fun. 

The name Hickory is a corruption/shortening of the 

Māori name - Waikerakikari – meaning Bay of Angry 

Waters. The knowledge of waves being consistent has 

long been known.

32 Magazine | Feature 

R: A few years ago, we had two southern right whales in 

the bay – they stayed and basked for a whole afternoon. 

Nothing quite prepares you for the magnitude of beautiful 

creatures like that, you get a great view from the hills. 

The longfin eels are fascinating to watch. We’ve had 

estimates that some of the biggest are around 80 years old. 

We have incredible staff here who have become 

like family to us – they go above and beyond and truly 

embrace the culture we’re trying to create. Our kids are 

friends too – a testament to the people that they are and 

the wonderful community this area has on offer. 

What’s coming up in the year/s ahead? 

K: We’ll continue to develop accommodation options… 

We have a 1959 Airstream Caravan that we’re in the 

process of setting up as a third spot for guests to enjoy. 

We’re excited to develop this over the next few months 

in readiness for spring. 

Also continue to offer well-curated, thought-through 

spaces for couples and families to experience the beauty, 

fun, history that this place has to offer – the waves, the 

bush, cliffs, stories, starscape and remoteness, enabling 

guests to disconnect. 

We had a vision for creating an accommodation 

experience laced with the surfing on tap and sprinkling 

it with a totally unique combination of offerings, not 

available in that unique combination anywhere else – 

uncrowded surf, hot tubs, sauna, winter firepits, little 

touches that go a long way to making it obviously not the 

commodified type offering of the usual “in and out and 

next please” that’s all too common. 

Hickory is a really unique, special place and we want 

guests to feel that, to enjoy it deeply, and for us it’s 

worth going to that extra effort. It’s a long term game. 

We made a strategic decision early on to offer bookings 

through our website only, and not through common 

holiday rental channels, and while this meant less 

exposure in the short term, it’s been a conscious move. 

We wanted to develop our client base organically 

and sustainably and grow it with the rhythms of the 

farm. Developing systems and staffing gradually, as 

requirements and our client base grew. 

We’re thankful to have the amazing staff we do 

that help us to work the farming operation and also 

create memorable stays for our guests. We’re glad to 

have had guests that will return every year since we 

began. It means a lot to us that they feel that love and 

attention to detail we put in for them. That’s what 

makes it so rewarding. 

R: I’m excited to put the Airstream accommodation 

offering together. A lot of what we do is trial and error! 

We’ve run music festivals in the past, we’d love to 

continue to do something like this annually (on a much 

smaller scale) for our clients. 

We want to continue to do the simple things well and 

provide a unique, genuine and authentic product and 

service that makes people feel valued and special. 

Our kids are growing up fast, and high on the priority 

list is hanging out and enjoying them while they’re little. 

Whānau and community is one of the best bits about 

living here.


RACHEL’S BUTTER MAPLE POPCORN 

I’ve gotta say: the humble popcorn machine is one of the best kitchen inventions. 

Ours is an extremely hard-working household member! Sometimes it’s fun 

to make popcorn a bit fancy. This oven-roasted version is crunchy and highly 

addictive (yep, right down to the crumbs). Serve it warm, straight out of the 

oven or cool and store in an airtight container. 

10 cups cooked popcorn 

100g butter 

½ cup packed brown sugar 

⅓ cup maple syrup 

¼ teaspoon baking soda 

1 teaspoon vanilla paste 

OPPOSITE: Photo: Jackson Bright 

Heat oven to 140°C. Pour popcorn into a large oven 

tray or dish with sides (remove and dispose of any 

unpopped kernels if you see them). 

Gather all other ingredients. Place butter, sugar and 

maple syrup into a medium saucepan and melt together 

over medium heat, whisking from time to time. 

Bring to a gentle simmer – continue to simmer for 

about 90 seconds, whisking frequently. 

Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla. 

It will foam up a bit! 

Pour over the popcorn and mix around to coat all the 

kernels – there will be some residual caramel on the 

tray, but this will absorb as it cooks. 

Place in oven for around 30 minutes (mixing from 

time to time) or until liquid is absorbed and popcorn 

is crunchy. 

Remove from oven. Once cooled, place in an airtight 

container (that is, if there’s any left!).

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Fashion meets heritage 

Much-loved Dunedin heritage footwear company McKinlays has been given a fashion 

twist for 2024 in a new collaboration with emerging local label Commonplace. 

INTERVIEW JOSIE STEENHART 

With the comfy-cool kicks flying out the doors and 

repeatedly selling out from retailers around the country, 

we caught up with Commonplace founder and currently 

London-based Dunedinite Estelle Dippie to find out more. 

In a nutshell, how would you describe Commonplace? 

Commonplace is a multi-disciplinary company which 

oversees fashion sales, distribution and more recently our 

own in-house line: Commonplace Essentials. 

The essence of Commonplace design lies in prep and 

uniform – sportswear-inspired classic pieces that are 

well-considered for everyday wearability and versatility. 

How/why did this collaboration came about? 

I was born and raised in Dunedin and have always known 

the McKinlay family (and of course wore McKinlays school 

shoes growing up!). 

As well as running the Dunedin-based factory, Dave 

McKinlay is also a footwear distributor and has always 

been very kind in sharing his knowledge and experience 

in this space. 

It was a very natural next step to work with McKinlays 

on a collaboration of our own. 

A good collaboration, in my opinion, should make 

sense but also be a little bit unexpected. Getting that 

balance right is what makes something stand out and 

what makes people take notice. 

The contrast between the two brands couldn’t be 

more clear – McKinlays is a true heritage brand in its 

145th year of business while we’re only just in our fourth, 

we have completely different customer bases and core 

product lines, etc. 

However it works in the sense that we share many of 

the same values, we produce a high quality product, and 

the final design represents both brands from an aesthetic 

point of view. 

And how did you decide on the design, colours, etc? 

The Anderson Slip On (named after Anderson Road 

in South Dunedin which is near where the McKinlays 

factory is located) is a true McKinlays staple, with a 

slightly contemporary and refreshed Commonplaceesque 

twist. We kept the colours (black, brown and 

khaki) pared back to ensure the shoe would be a versatile 

addition to any wardrobe. 

Are you surprised at how popular they’ve been? 

I’ve been delighted at how well the ‘made in New 

Zealand’ story has resonated with our customers. It’s no 

secret that retail is tough right now, so it’s been really 

amazing to see so many people wanting to support small 

business and local manufacturing, and subsequently our 

stockists who are retailing the shoes all around the country. 

How many pairs have been made so far, and what’s the 

plan moving forward? 

We’re up to just under 500 pairs (and counting!). One 

of the joys of making locally is that there are no large 

MOQs [minimum order quantities], which allows us 

to only produce what we know we will sell – which is 

fantastic for minimising waste and overproduction. 

We’d love to see this collaboration turn into a long-term 

partnership. We’re working on how we could incorporate 

more innovation and sustainability into our materials, new 

colours for summer, and a new style is in the works too. 

McKinlays has been around for 145 years – what’s the 

secret to its success, do you think? 

It’s incredible that McKinlays has maintained a 

manufacturing presence from Dunedin, despite the 

continued external pressure and challenges of doing so. 

I think core to its success has been staying true to its 

founding values around good business practices, valuing 

staff and partners and having a strong work ethic. 

Beyond this, the McKinlays product is timeless, 

traceable, competitively priced and incredibly high quality. 

Have you spent much time in Dunedin, and what are 

your thoughts/feelings for the city? 

I was born in Dunedin and went to school and university 

in the city. 

While studying, I worked at the local institution that is 

now Chapman Store (then Slick Willy’s), which was where 

I was first introduced to the fashion industry – I think I 

spent more time on the shop floor than at my lectures! 

I’ve since lived in Auckland and now London, however 

I love coming home to Dunedin. It’s an exciting little city 

with a lot of historic character and amazing beaches and 

natural landscapes. 

There’s also a fantastic creative energy in the city and 

plenty of inspiration to be found within iD Fashion Week 

and hugely successful brands such as NOM*d and Yu Mei 

that are based in or have ties to Dunedin. 

Any other collabs in the works? 

As well as continuing to work with McKinlays, we have 

two more collaborations with international footwear and 

accessories brands in the works for later this year. Stay tuned!


LEFT: Commonplace founder 

Estelle Dippie. Photo: Ruby 

Hamilton 

BOTTOM RIGHT: McKinlays 

x Commonplace Anderson 

Slip On in Black, Khaki and 

Brown. Photo: Ruby Holland

Interiors | Magazine 39 

Alpine urban retreat 

Fresh from dual wins and the label 

“masterpiece” from the NZ Institute of 

Architects Southern Awards, this striking 

Wānaka house is designed to be an adaptable 

retreat in a changing environment. 

WORDS KIM DUNGEY 

PHOTOS CASEY MOORE 

L 

ocated within walking distance of Wānaka’s town centre, 

this site has been occupied by the same homeowners for 

more than two decades. 

For many years, the Christchurch couple holidayed in a 

small blockwork house that sat on the section. Their children 

played cricket on the large front lawn and roamed freely 

to neighbouring properties, which still belong to extended 

family and remain unfenced. 

As Wānaka transformed from quaint town to busy urban 

area and greater intensification looked likely, the couple 

considered creating a home to accommodate several 

generations and serve as a retreat in the changing landscape. 

To design it, they turned to Auckland-based Roberts Gray 

Architects, where their son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and 

Elspeth Gray, and fellow director Nick Roberts collaborated 

on the project. Meanwhile, their daughter Georgina Vink, of 

Constructure, was the main design engineer. 

Jimmy Gray says urban intensification – increasing the 

density of houses within existing built areas – is a real 

talking point in Wānaka, with changes proposed by the 

Queenstown Lakes District Council set to vastly change 

the landscape. 

Intensification in one form or another is a given and the 

new house needed to stand on its own, “no matter what 

happens around it”. 

From the street, the façade is deliberately abstract to 

create a sense of intrigue. This “draws you into the house, 

which opens up once you get inside the courtyard”. 

The property consists of a series of solid, concrete block 

forms, tied together by lightweight screens, courtyards and 

carefully placed window and door openings. These not only 

give a balance between openness and enclosure but create 

dynamic interplays of light and shadow within. 

Jimmy says the house needed to work equally well for two 

people and for extended family, including grandchildren. 

“[One] consideration revolved around the ability to find 

privacy when accommodating large numbers of people. 

The solid forms become static zones – lounges, bedrooms, 

bathrooms – places to escape to. The lightweight forms that 

link these spaces are more transitional – kitchens, corridors, 

outdoor spaces and courtyards.”

“It’s a transitional, intergenerational project and 

somewhere that we can always call home and come back 

to,” Jimmy says. 

The experience of living in the house is also different 

depending on the season. In winter, a low-lit, dark-clad 

mudroom transitions to a light-filled interior with framed 

views of the mountains. In summer, a casual meander over 

stone steps links a series of gardens to a spacious central 

courtyard at the heart of the home. 

While the local vernacular is usually understood to be a 

gable roof and stone walls, it was decided to “push back” at 

what that might mean. 

“When you look at the [region’s] old stone buildings, 

they’re real mass construction, so that played into the mass 

of the concrete block [forms],” he says. 

Living spaces in Wānaka are often positioned on the 

upper floor to prioritise views rather than a connection to 

the site, but here the architects decided to do the opposite. 

“There’s always a better view in places like that and 

people are always building for it but I sort of see that 

as a missed opportunity in some ways … Yes, there are 

views and you have to acknowledge them … but there’s 

also an element of living on the ground floor and having a 

connection to the land,” Jimmy says.

Interiors | Magazine 41 

“In winter, a low-lit, 

dark-clad mudroom 

transitions to a lightfilled 

interior with 

framed views of the 

mountains. In summer, 

a casual meander over 

stone steps links a 

series of gardens to 

a spacious central 

courtyard at the heart 

of the home.” 

In this case, all the living areas and two of the 

bedrooms are on the ground floor. Only the main 

bedroom and ensuite are above. 

There is still a lake and mountain view from the 

lower level but instead of living “out on a balcony” the 

occupants can open the doors and sit in a courtyard, 

protected from the wind and sun. 

The result is a house that is more liveable and more 

fluid, he says. 

“Also it’s about appreciating that you’re in this amazing 

landscape when you go out for a coffee. You’re in this 

amazing landscape when you go out on a bike ride. It’s 

everywhere anyway so it’s about trying to find beauty 

within the space that you’ve created and looking back at 

that as well.” 

A limited palette of natural materials creates continuity 

between inside and out. 

Charred Japanese cedar and locally sourced concrete 

blocks were selected for their ability to withstand the 

harsh conditions. Schist paving from Lindis Pass was chosen 

because it is browner than Wānaka or Queenstown schists 

and a counterpoint to the greys of the masonry. Marble 

slabs in the house have prominent veins that reference the 

rivers and mountains beyond, while glass mosaic tiles in the 

bathrooms absorb and reflect changing light. 

All materials were left in their natural state, promoting 

weathering over time and minimising maintenance costs. 

The blockwork serves as both structure and cladding, 

with a double-skin construction wrapped in insulation. The 

house remains naturally cooled when it is hot, while the

heat absorbed into the blockwork releases internally when 

the outside temperature cools. 

Courtyards, window placement, skylights, large 

eaves, thermally broken window joinery, low-E glass 

and integrated bug screens make the building “highly 

responsive” to seasonal change. There is no airconditioning 

or mechanical cooling but operable doors 

and screens allow for cross-ventilation. 

In winter, the house is heated via a hydronic heating 

system, which also controls the water heating. Solar panels 

and a Tesla battery enhance efficiency, managing power use 

and running costs. 

Taking out both a Housing award and a Resene Colour 

award in the 2024 NZIA Southern Architecture Awards, 

the property is an urban sanctuary in a dynamic landscape 

and one that future generations can enjoy. 

Judges described it as “a stark blank façade” that gives “no 

hint of the riches within – a restrained material palette of 

half-height concrete blocks, Japanese cedar and oak floors 

with raw galvanised steel”. 

“The cedar cladding has undergone yakisugi treatment, 

while the same cedar has been left raw inside. 

“Complete with a Japanese-style courtyard garden, the 

talented design team has created a stunner with their 

first project, thanks to fantastically friendly clients – their 

parents. While this house may be spending the kids’ 

inheritance, the integrity of design decisions and assured 

quality of the finished product suggests money well spent. 

“This house is a masterpiece – the architects are likely to 

be the vanguard of the future,” the judges said.

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44 Magazine | Promotion 

DIRECTORY 

HOME & LIVING 

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LITTLE RIVER GALLERY 

Abstract artist Emma Velde-Schaffer’s painterly surfaces evoke 

landscape and undersea environments, galactic nebulae or 

geological strata, but most importantly a kind of meditative 

emotional inscape. ‘Fractured’ is influenced by Margaret Stoddart’s 

historical botanical art, especially the colour palette of her rose 

paintings. Viewed up close, a subtle, unintentional obscuring of the 

subject matter occurs – a kind of fracturing… ‘Fractured’, oil on 

stretched cotton canvas, 1200 x 900mm, $2600. 

littlerivergallery.com

EXTERNAL AFFAIRS 

with Tim Goom 

BEFORE 

GARDEN MAKEOVERS 

Refresh rather than reinvent 

to easily add value 

Our gardens hold a special place in our hearts, providing a sanctuary 

of peace and beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. In 

Canterbury, where the stunning natural scenery already sets a 

high-bar for aesthetic appeal, maintaining an inviting and well-kept 

garden is particularly important. A garden makeover can breathe 

new life into an outdoor space, and choosing to refresh rather than 

completely reinvent your garden can offer numerous benefits. 

Opting to refresh a garden rather than starting from scratch is a 

cost-effective approach, especially in our current economic climate. 

Instead of overhauling the entire garden, focus can be placed on 

replacing tired plantings, updating hardscapes, and making minor 

adjustments that have a significant impact. This approach not only 

preserves the existing character of the garden but also reduces 

waste and the environmental footprint associated with extensive 

landscaping projects. 

AFTER 

Refreshing a 

garden rather 

than starting 

from scratch is 

a cost-effective 

approach. 

by Goom 

Concrete and pavers play a crucial role in garden makeovers by 

enhancing functionality and aesthetic appeal. These materials are 

durable, low-maintenance, and versatile, making them ideal for 

creating paths, courtyard, and seating areas. In Canterbury, where 

the weather can be unpredictable, concrete and pavers provide a 

reliable surface that can withstand the elements. They also offer a 

sleek, modern look that can complement a variety of garden styles, 

from contemporary to traditional. 

Incorporating timber batten edging and mow strips is another 

effective way to refresh a garden. Timber batten edging provides 

a neat and defined border for garden beds, helping to keep mulch 

and soil in place. Mow strips, on the other hand, create a clean 

edge between lawn and garden beds, making mowing easier and 

reducing maintenance – you don’t have that long bit of untidy lawn 

growing up against the side of the house or deck you have to deal 

with after you have mowed. 

Replacing tired planting is perhaps the most transformative element 

of a garden makeover. Over time, plants can become woody or 

straggly, diseased, or simply lose their visual appeal from age. 

Introducing new, vibrant plants can instantly rejuvenate a garden, 

providing fresh colour, textures and shelter from our prevailing 

Easterly winds. In Canterbury, where the climate supports a wide 

range of plant species, the possibilities are endless. 

A garden makeover in Canterbury that focuses on refreshing 

rather than reinventing can offer a host of benefits. By updating 

hardscapes with concrete and pavers, incorporating timber batten 

edging and mow strips, and replacing tired plantings, homeowners 

can create a beautiful, functional, and sustainable garden. This 

approach not only enhances the outdoor living experience but also 

adds value to the property, making it a worthwhile investment for 

any homeowner. 

The champions 

of landscape 

design and build. 

7 AWARDS – 2023 

DESIGN | MANAGE | CONSTRUCT 

Create a Lifespace with us | goom.nz 

IDEATION-GOM0191

46 Magazine | Promotion 

Smooth operator 

As sleek and dynamic as its namesake, the BYD Seal delivers an effortless, intuitive 

and very stylish driving experience – plus you can use it to run your hairdryer or 

smoothie maker in the wild, writes 03 editor Josie Steenhart. 

First released in New Zealand at the end of last year, 

the Seal is part of BYD’s ‘Ocean aesthetics’ series 

(there’s also a Dolphin, a SeaLion and a Shark ute), 

available in three model variants, distinguished by their 

battery size and vehicle performance. 

Because I’m fancy (jokes), Euromarque have let me 

loose in the top of the line ‘sports addition’ all-wheeldrive 

Performance model, which provides a battery size 

of 83kWh with a driving range of 520km, 390kW of 

power and 670Nm of torque. What catches my ear 

more however is that it also delivers a 0 to 100km/h time 

of 3.8 seconds. Pretty zippy. 

Extremely comfortably ensconced in the integrated 

sports seats (the driver’s is 8-way power-adjustable), 

which, naturally, have internal heating (as does the 

steering wheel, which FYI is SO NICE at 6:45am when 

I’m driving to yoga in the frost-covered dark), there are 

plenty of innovative bells and whistles (not literally) that 

can be tapped in to the 15.6-inch intelligent rotating 

touchscreen display. 

The Seal provides a very smooth and comfortable 

ride and despite knowing how quickly you can take it to 

100km/h, also feels super safe and relaxing to drive – in 

large part due to the Seal’s ‘safety suite’, which boasts 

a range of advanced safety and convenience features 

including a 360-degree camera, emergency lane keeping 

assist, child presence detection, automatic emergency 

braking, adaptive cruise control, and front and rear 

parking sensors. 

The silver-plated glass roof offers an open-sky feel, and 

if you’re not enjoying the enveloping calm and quiet this 

sleek electric provides (not to mention the negative ion 

air purifier), there’s also a premium audio experience on 

offer through its 12 high quality speakers. 

To further elevate your in-car experience simply by 

removing the need to think about them, I really enjoyed 

intuitive details such as the rain-sensing frameless wipers, 

auto lights which even go to full beam when the time is 

right but immediately dim when a car appears, and the 

adjustable 10.25-inch LCD driver’s screen that projects 

onto the windscreen above the dashboard and removes 

the need to take your eyes off the road. 

As usual, it wouldn’t be a car review by me without 

touching on aesthetics, and this one is a real beauty in my 

opinion. Liquid curves are countered by knife-sharp (again 

not literally) faceted forms, while details all across the car 

from head to tail lights, the 19” alloys and the luxe lozengeshaped 

door handles that pop out on unlocking and sink 

gently back in when the car is locked add an elevated feel. 

Inside, there are leather-wrapped seats in a diamondshaped 

weave, coloured light panels that can be 

customised to your mood or outfit from a full spectrum 

(I initially chose Barbie-pink but changed it multiple times 

because, why not?), and a gear stick that nods to a big 

chunk of cut crystal. 

There is purpose behind many of these good looks too 

– for example the distinctive double U-shaped headlights 

create a stereo effect while the dot-matrix tail lights 

definitely catch the eye, each ensuring a safer and more 

enjoyable driving experience. 

Finally, the detail you’ve all been waiting for me to 

get to and which set my mind racing when Lea at 

Euromarque first explained it to me. All BYDs, including 

the Seal, come with VTL (Vehicle-To-Load) technology 

and a ready-to-use VTL adapter/cable. Simply plug the 

adapter into your vehicle charging port and you can use 

it to power any appliance with a standard New Zealand 

plug. IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES! I certainly was 

after hearing that someone I know took their airfryer 

with them on site work to whip up a spot of outdoor 

morning tea. 

Roadies will be forever altered with the ability to help 

yourself to a cold drink (or chilled face mask) from your 

mini fridge, good hair days will be every day no matter 

where you are as you can crank the styling tools to 

your heart’s content, and summer camping just got a 

whole lot more sophisticated with morning smoothies 

and evening movie nights (with popcorn made in your 

popcorn machine!). Maybe this is why they named it 

Build Your Dreams?! 

The BYD Seal is available now at Euromarque starting 

at $62,990 for the Dynamic, $72,990 for the Premium and 

$83,990 for the Performance model. All prices include GST, 

exclude registration, on-road costs, options and accessories. 

Contact Euromarque for more information. 

120 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch. euromarque.co.nz

Promotion | Magazine 47

Bikepacking in Pakistan 

Former Wānaka residents Georgia Merton and Isobel Ewing spent 

an adventurous month cycling through northern Pakistan, sharing 

their experience via short film Inshallah, which recently won the best 

self‐filmed category at the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival. 

INTERVIEW JOSIE STEENHART | PHOTOS GEORGIA MERTON

Travel | Magazine 49 

Georgia, tell us how this adventure came about? 

I was already planning a big cycle tour, born purely of a 

lust for an adventure. Issy is a seasoned bikepacker and 

had cycled the Silk Road with her brother a few years 

earlier, so it didn’t take much to convince her to come 

and join me for a chunk of the trip. I had spent two 

months on my bike in India and Bhutan before meeting 

up with her. 

Pakistan was actually never in the plan – we were 

intending to do a loop in northeast India, but Issy’s 

visa got denied and she missed her flight (something 

to do with her being a journalist!). Anyway, we 

frantically rehashed our plans, got Pakistan visas 

and cheap flights within about 12 hours, and found 

ourselves in Lahore. 

How much planning was involved? 

Planning is one of the best parts of a big bike journey, 

although of course we did little to none for Pakistan 

specifically. It was really a matter of getting our bikes 

there in one piece, making sure we had most of the 

right gear between us, deciding on a vague route and 

setting off. 

Oh, and we were advised to wear shalwar kameez 

(the long tunic and pants worn by men and women in 

Pakistan), so we bought a set each in Lahore and wore 

them the whole time. 

In the lead-up to leaving New Zealand, I had a great 

time putting my bike together, and was exposed to 

the kindness and enthusiasm of the cycle-touring 

community in the process. 

What were some of the biggest challenges? 

Probably the mechanicals – we (and by we I mean 

Isobel – for some reason my bike performed flawlessly 

the whole time) had at least one disaster a day. 

Punctures, bent derailleurs, a crucial missing washer. 

Despite both of us spending a lot of time on our 

bikes, neither of us is very clued up on how to fix 

them so we spent a lot of time on Google on the side 

of the road. 

Highlights? 

Without a doubt, the people. They were the most 

gracious I’ve ever encountered, and displayed the true 

art of hospitality. We were invited inside for tea and 

food multiple times a day. 

It was a little heartbreaking and more than a little 

confronting, actually, to witness how different people 

were to what we were used to seeing in mainstream 

portrayals of this country. 

And surprises? 

I think so much of the beauty of cycle touring is in the 

endless string of surprises. You can never predict how 

a day will turn out, and often what seems like a disaster 

(e.g. a bike failure) will lead to something wonderful 

(being invited in for brekkie). 

I also underestimated what it would feel like to be 

around mountains that big. The highest was over 8000 

metres, and we felt absolutely giddy cycling at their feet. 

You’ve described the trip as “life-changing”, could 

you talk a little bit to that? 

I guess that’s what we hope from any big journey, 

isn’t it – to be changed in some way? 

Being on your bike every day, completely in your 

body and at the mercy of the elements and the people 

you meet, is a strong reminder of the joy that exists in 

a simplified life.

Travel | Magazine 50 

“I think so much of the 

beauty of cycle touring 

is in the endless string 

of surprises. You can 

never predict how a day 

will turn out…” 

I’m trying to hold that feeling close and resist the 

temptation to over-clutter. Also, and apologies for the 

cliche, but encountering the warmth and kindness of so 

many of the people in Pakistan restored some of my 

dwindling faith in humanity. 

Congrats on the win for your film Inshallah! 

Thanks! Quite surprising, to be honest! 

I have worked in documentary filmmaking for a few 

years but never handled the camera or cut the footage. 

I really wanted to try my hand, so I brought a camera 

with me. 

The film started as a way to learn, but as we realised 

how special Pakistan was, it quickly became a way of 

capturing some of this for everyone at home. 

Issy and I are both storytellers by trade, and we loved 

having a creative project while on the bike. 

Issy brought her brother’s drone and flew it beautifully, 

despite having only been given one quick lesson at home 

the day before departure. 

Where can people see the film? 

The NZ Mountain Film Festival will be going on a 

nationwide tour August through November, so keep an 

eye on their website. 

There’ll also be a screening at Tūranga in Christchurch 

as part of their Women of the Wheel exhibition in 

October (date TBC). 

What are some of your favourite South Island 

adventures/experiences? 

I love to ski at the Canterbury clubbies and explore the 

backcountry in winter. I’m lucky to live in Sumner in 

Christchurch, where I can surf multiple times a week, 

and I head up to Kaikōura whenever I can. 

Plans for further adventures in the year ahead? 

Eventually I’ve got my sights set on cycling in Patagonia, 

but for now I’m pretty happy enjoying the Canterbury 

winter, working and topping up the funds for the 

next mission.

Plan your Waitaki 

adventure 

With the snowcapped 

Alps, outdoor 

adventures, and a history 

rich in art and culture, 

head to Waitaki for your 

winter escape. 

Three reasons to visit this winter 

Ōhau Snow Fields 

Ski and snowboarders unite for a trip to one of the South Island’s most scenic 

snow fields. With views up the Waitaki Valley to Aoraki Mount Cook, perch on 

a mountain and look out to Lake Ōhau and the Southern Alps as you ski down 

a perfectly powdery slope. After the kids enjoy a day or more at the school 

holiday programme, head to the après-ski only 20 minutes away at Lake Ōhau 

Lodge. Soak in a hot spa or relax with a cold beer at the bar. Pure bliss! 

Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail 

This spectacular journey traverses wild and snow-capped landscapes, from the 

majestic Southern Alps to the scenic Ōamaru coastline. Cycle through snowy 

mountains, limestone valleys, and charming coastal towns on this unforgettable 

300-kilometre trail. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just up for the weekend, 

this promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. www.alps2ocean.com 

Penguin Encounters 

Witness the world’s smallest little blue penguins / kororā at the Ōamaru Blue 

Penguin Colony. Visit the penguins in their natural habitat and watch the little 

creatures waddle up the cliff at dusk after a long day foraging at sea. Find out more 

about the kororā from the resident experts or browse for some penguin-inspired 

gifts at the entrance. All proceeds go towards continued research and conservation. 

Waitaki_NZ 

WaitakiNZ 

waitakinz.com

Food | Magazine 53 

Back in the quiet kitchen 

One of our absolute favourite local foodies, Nici Wickes, returns with a second 

thoughtfully delicious and deliciously thoughtful tome from her Quiet Kitchen series. 

WORDS & RECIPES NICI WICKES 

PHOTOS TODD EYRE 

I 

’ve always gained a great deal of pleasure out of cooking 

a simple meal and preparing everyday food – it’s one 

of the most exquisite ways to look after yourself, to stay 

grounded, to keep yourself company and be reminded that 

we are all far more capable than we know. 

And I’ve needed this more than ever of late. Since 

writing A Quiet Kitchen, I have been tested in ways I never 

expected. I’m all shook up! 

On top of a pandemic, climate changes have impacted 

me directly and have shaken me to the core, compelling 

me to consider how I’m living. I’m having to figure out 

how to settle down in an increasingly unsettling world. 

How do I trust my instincts again in the face of so much 

uncertainty? How do I find peacefulness, optimism and 

calm in the storms? What are these years in ‘mid-age’ 

all about? 

Once the lockdowns were over, life seemed to ramp 

up again and I lost my way trying to keep up. Then 

Mother Nature knocked the naivety out of me as I waded 

shin-deep in water inside my studio after the devastating 

cyclone and floods of 2023. It was surreal. 

Suddenly my little community, about which I’d waxed 

lyrical in my first book in this series, seemed hugely 

vulnerable. Gardens flooded, trees keeled over, hills 

cracked, land slid, houses were crushed and people 

were left unable to return to their homes. And others 

throughout the country were going through far, far worse. 

I heard someone say it felt like a break-up with the 

whenua (land), and I wept as I realised the truth in that. 

I felt like I’d broken up with nature. Rain on my roof no 

longer felt comforting or good for the garden and water 

tanks. Wind became unsettling. The raging ocean seemed 

intent only on gouging out our coastline. Nature no 

longer seemed to care about us – and who could blame 

her, given how careless we’ve been. 

At around the same time, after a bout of Covid, I lost 

my appetite – for food, cooking and life. Imagine me 

without my interest in cooking! I was utterly lost for some 

months. Feeling helpless and uncertain, I knew I had to 

once again turn to my kitchen and cooking as a salve. So 

I made food that was uncomplicated and soothing, food 

that made me happy, took my mind off what I couldn’t 

control, made me feel calm. I came home to my self. 

As I emerged from these upheavals, I made a conscious 

decision to turn more towards nature, growing more 

of my own produce, taking walks up the hill nearby and 

along the beach, and continuing to plunge into the ocean 

regardless of the season or temperature. I was determined 

to fall in love with my environment again. 

I decided to approach the fallout from the natural 

disasters as I have ageing – I would not give up on our 

world even though everything was sagging, falling apart and 

a bit knocked around, because you cannot run from the 

things you love. 

Making a commitment to look for the small things to 

brighten and lighten my soul has become critical to my 

daily life. How lucky am I to still be drawing breath?! 

My kitchen remains the absolute heart of my little house 

perched on the coast of Aotearoa New Zealand, and from it I 

reach out into the world for solace, comfort and connections. 

I’m finally finding the contentedness and peace that I 

thought I’d lost. I’ve found love again – for nature in all 

her temperaments and for myself in all my softness and 

miraculous imperfections. This collection of recipes, mostly 

serving one or two, is a celebration of coming home to my 

self again. May they help you find your way home, too.

Recipe | Magazine 55 

OOH LÀ LÀ FRENCH ONION SOUP 

I can never go past onion soup on a menu, but rarely did I 

think of making it at home … until now. It’s deeply rich and 

will have you happily slurping in no time. 

Serves 2 

2 onions, thinly sliced (see note) 

1 tablespoon each butter and oil 

1 tablespoon plain flour 

3 cups vegetable, chicken or 

beef stock 

A splash of white or red 

wine (optional) 

1 bay leaf 

½ teaspoon brown sugar 

½ teaspoon sea salt 

A decent grind of black pepper 

1 thick bread slice per serve 

¼ cup grated cheese – Gruyère 

is traditional but any will do 

Fresh parsley, to garnish 

In a heavy-based pot over a medium heat, cook 

the sliced onions in the butter and oil. Do this 

with the lid on to let them sweat down. After 

5–7 minutes give them a stir (lower the heat if 

they are getting too brown) and keep cooking, 

covered, for 5 more minutes. 

Stir the flour through the onions, add a splash 

of stock or wine (if using) and cook for 1 minute 

until the flour has thickened. Then add the 

remaining stock, bay leaf, sugar, salt and pepper. 

Simmer, covered, for 20–30 minutes. Taste 

and adjust seasoning and add water if it needs 

thinning down. 

To serve, grill the bread on both sides then top 

with cheese and grill until melted. 

Ladle the soup into a bowl and place the cheesy 

grilled bread on top. Sprinkle with parsley and 

get slurping. 

TIP 

The onions will cook way faster if you cut them 

as follows: halve your onion from top to tail, 

peel, then slice both halves from top to tail. 

Cooks three times faster. Science!

56 Magazine | Recipe 

LAMB MASSAMAN CURRY 

Massaman curry is a gently spiced, fragrant Thai-style curry, and the ingredient 

list is long for a true massaman curry paste, so I save time by using a quality storebought 

paste for this stunner of a dish. It’s often one I’ll cook for friends as it’s so 

impressive and easy, hence the ‘serves four’, but feel free to halve the recipe. 

Serves 4 

4 lamb hind shanks 

6–8 baby/small potatoes, 

scrubbed clean 

1 medium onion, sliced 

80g (about 3–4 big tablespoons) 

massaman curry paste (see note) 

300ml coconut milk 

2 cups vegetable or chicken stock 

2–3 whole star anise 

2 sticks cinnamon 

½ teaspoon chilli flakes 

Rice or naan, to serve 

Fresh coriander leaves, to serve 

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Select a roasting 

dish or ovenproof dish that will hold the 

shanks nicely. 

Lay lamb in the dish in one layer and scatter 

in potatoes and onion. 

Mix the curry paste with coconut milk and 

stock and pour over meat and vegetables. 

Add the star anise, cinnamon sticks and chilli 

flakes. Turn the lamb to coat in sauce, then 

cover tightly with two layers of foil or a lid. 

Bake for 1½ hours then remove the foil or lid 

(careful of the steam) and bake for a further 

30 minutes, turning the lamb a few times to 

brown evenly. The meat ought to be super 

tender and the sauce thickened. 

Serve with rice or naan and garnished with 

fresh coriander. 

TIP 

I used to insist on making my own curry 

pastes from scratch but that was before there 

was such an outstanding array of additive-free 

choices so easily available. I use the Hart & 

Soul paste made in Thailand and available in 

our supermarkets.

58 Magazine | Recipe 

TAMARILLO 

CLAFOUTIS 

This recipe comes from one of my 

sisters who then shared it with my 

darling niece. What this means is 

that at family gatherings one of them 

will whip up a clafoutis on the spot, 

which we all happily devour. I’ve 

scaled the original back to make this 

darling little serve, just right for one. 

Serves 1 with leftovers 

Soft butter for dish + extra for dotting 

2 tamarillos 

1 medium egg 

2 tablespoons sugar + extra for sprinkling 

1 heaped tablespoon plain flour 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

¼ cup milk 

A drizzle of cream 

Preheat the oven to 180°C and generously 

butter a small ovenproof dish. 

Halve and scoop out flesh of fruit and cut 

into thick slices. Place in buttered dish. 

Whisk egg with the 2 tablespoons sugar, 

add flour and whisk until smooth. Whisk 

in vanilla and milk. 

Pour batter over fruit, dot some butter 

over the top and bake for 20 minutes or 

so until just set in the centre and golden. 

Serve with a final sprinkle of sugar over 

the top and drizzle with cream. 

TIP 

You could also use fresh pitted cherries, 

prunes, feijoas or any not-too-juicy 

fruit for this recipe. 

Edited extract from More from 

a Quiet Kitchen by Nici Wickes, 

photography by Todd Eyre, published 

by Bateman Books, RRP$49.99. 

Enter to win one of two copies on 

page 66.

love winter in selwyn 

With our clear night skies, delicious eateries and six adventurous ski fields, Selwyn is a place to enjoy winter. 

With plenty of spots to capture the glorious Milky Way and Matariki stars, Selwyn is top of the list for many astro photographers. 

Check out the Canterbury Astronomical Society in West Melton for a close up view through a telescope and learn more about the 

night sky. 

If you love an adventure, ski in Selwyn this winter where there’s easy access to uncrowded slopes and family fun is the aim of 

the game. Or if a relaxing retreat is on the cards, venture into the mountains and stay at one of our glamping experiences or 

country lodges. 

Ski 

Take the family skiing at one or all 

of the six fields. Find on mountain 

accommodation, awesome facilities 

and amazing views. 

Eat 

Enjoy cosy dining in Selwyn, take 

the family out or book in with a 

group of friends. 

Escape 

Try glamping in the mountains or 

stay in a country homestead in 

the hills. Take a weekend away to 

recharge the soul. 

Be Entertained 

Experience Selwyn’s landscape in 

winter by taking the Tranzalpine 

train from Christchurch or Rolleston 

to Arthur’s Pass. One of the world’s 

greatest train journeys. 

For details visit selwyn.nz Follow Selwyn NZ Share selwyn.nz

Picking up the threads 

Curators Elle Loui August and Jane Groufsky have woven together the work 

of Ōtepoti artist and textile scholar Margery Blackman for a new generation 

via a retrospective exhibition on now at Dunedin Public Art Gallery. 

WORDS REBECCA FOX 

Margery Blackman’s legacy is of special significance 

at a local and national level not only because of 

her “marvellous” tapestry works but also because of 

her scholarship, community education, exhibitions and 

advocacy for the craft sector. 

It is this “rich and complex” picture of an artist that 

curators Elle Loui August and Jane Groufsky hope they 

have brought to life in a new exhibition of Margery’s 

work and life. 

“That it reflects upon not only the importance of 

Margery’s work art-historically, but also her story, offers 

us an opportunity to draw attention to the complex 

contributions that artists make to our communities. 

Which is something that is not often acknowledged,” 

Elle says. 

Margery, who bought a loom and taught herself 

weaving and tapestry in the 1960s, went on to become 

honorary curator of ethnographic textiles at Otago 

Museum, curating exhibitions featuring Māori and 

Chinese textiles among others, worked on textile 

conservation at Olveston and wrote a book about 

its owner, Dorothy Theomin, and made important 

contributions to research on Māori tāniko weaving. 

“The threads of her practice extend out across the 

world and she was the little shuttle moving through, 

busily working away weaving them all together,” Elle says. 

She also continued her own practice, creating many 

of her own works – including the ‘Otago Banners’, 

hung at the entrance to Dunedin Hospital, which were 

commissioned in the early 1980s and completed in 1986. 

It is those banners Elle, who grew up in Dunedin, 

remembers from her childhood. But it was Margery’s 

exhibition at Brett McDowell Gallery in 2010 that left 

a lasting impression on her, “because of the clarity and 

precision of her work.” 

As a curator and researcher herself – with an interest 

in art-making from 1978 to 1999 – it resonated and 

stuck with her over the years.


“Her story needed a 

very different approach 

that could account for 

the richness of her life’s 

contributions. What an 

amazing woman.” 

LEFT: Margery Blackman: Weaving, Life, 

2024. Installation views, Dunedin Public 

Art Gallery. The top installation image 

is of items from the Otago Museum 

Margery Blackman Collection. 

OPPOSITE: Curators Elle Loui August 

(left) and Jane Groufsky in front of 

Margery Blackman’s ‘From Aramoana’. 

Photo: Linda Robertson 

Now, working independently, she has been able to 

look strategically at the period and see what stories might 

benefit from being “lifted up to the surface for people to 

see more clearly”. 

“A lot of incredible art-making happened in New 

Zealand in the 1980s. It was a very fertile time for both 

studio craft and visual art. Because we’re now in 2024, 

some of those stories are less present to us. So it’s great 

to be able to bring a show like this into being because it 

allows a return to what is a familiar time to some, new to 

others, and invites a fresh approach to thinking about our 

shared art historical and cultural past.” 

As Margery was such an important person in the 

craft sector, Elle felt there needed to be an exhibition 

that celebrated more than just her work but also her 

contributions to the community. 

“Her story needed a very different approach that 

could account for the richness of her life’s contributions. 

What an amazing woman.” 

So she approached Jane, a curator of social history 

and the co-curator of Tāmaki Herenga Waka: Stories 

of Auckland at the Auckland Museum, who has a love 

of textiles, suggesting they put together an exhibition 

on Margery. 

Jane had met Margery through the Costume and 

Textile Association of New Zealand, which Margery had 

been involved in since its inception 22 years ago. She had 

also seen ‘From Aramoana’, which is in the exhibition, at 

the Dowse Art Museum, where it is part of its collection. 

“This in particular stands out in the sense that in the 

kind of fertile ’60s, ’70s, ’80s period of studio weaving, 

there are relatively few people doing what Margery does, 

which is tapestry weaving.” 

In general Margery’s tapestry forms have a “freshness 

and timelessness” that come from her unique approach, 

which is grounded in modernism. 

“They have stood the test of time as she used chemical 

dyes, which have been quite stable as opposed to the 

natural dyes many used at that time.” 

A fan of Margery’s work, Jane was more than happy to 

get on board. While the Covid pandemic slowed things 

down, in 2021 they were able to meet Margery, who 

is now 94, and her husband Gary Blackman, before his 

death in 2022, at their Māori Hill home. 

“Her practice was so embedded in the space. It was 

lovely to see a rug hanging over a bannister and now see 

it on a plinth mimicking how it first started,” Jane says. 

With only a few exceptions her work is very 

connected to Dunedin, yet also fits into the international 

modernist textiles of the 20th century. 

“It’s fantastic her work will be better understood 

throughout the country as a result of this exhibition.” 

It was also “amazing to experience the famous 

Blackman hospitality”. The pair expected to chat to them 

for a few hours, instead emerging nearly eight hours later. 

“It’s one thing to study someone, it’s another to 

experience it first-hand, and their family has been so 

supportive and helpful,” Jane says. 

Elle says Margery is quietly pleased by the idea of 

the exhibition but is extremely modest about her 

achievements, saying there were always others involved. 

But there was not a lot that Margery was not involved 

in, the curators discovered. 

“She was on the Crafts Council. She was in the 

Spinners and Weavers Guild, the Friends of Otago 

Museum, involved in projects at Toitū Otago Settlers


Museum, Hocken Collections, Olveston … She was so 

busy, teaching and mentoring people one-on-one and 

just as passionately pursuing her own development as 

an artist.” 

Margery also had an ambition for the sector as a 

whole to flourish and grow. She was committed to high 

standards and wanted people in the sector to raise the 

level and precision of their practice and to excel. 

“A lot of her advocacy work in the crafts sector at the 

time was really dedicated to bringing out the best for 

other artists as well.” 

Jane says within the sphere of craft exhibitions if you 

pick up a catalogue from that time that features textile 

art there is probably going to be a piece by Margery in it. 

Elle says that craft has been “under-thought” in 

New Zealand. 

“Craft is often most closely associated with notions of 

skill, so it is not often understood as having an intellectual 

dimension. Margery’s story and her work completely 

overturns that assumption. I felt that so passionately 

when the tapestry ‘From Aramoana’ was being hung on 

the wall. It seemed undeniable for both of us that this is a 

major artwork of its time. 

“It’s an important artwork for Dunedin especially, 

because of the complexity of its themes, the way these 

are expressed in form, and because of the events of the 

era that it is responding to.” 

Jane says that’s why the exhibition has such a strong 

social historical focus. 

“It’s not simply her work, but it’s her works 

contextualised within that moment in those communities, 

which is why we have works by her husband, Gary; we 

have lots of ephemera.” 

She also feels this exhibition is an important marker in 

the push for textiles to be recognised as an art form. 

“I optimistically feel like we’re maybe cresting the hill – I 

mean, the Mataaho Collective won the [Golden Lion] at 

Venice Biennale with a woven work. You really can’t make 

more of a case than that. 

“So it’s very energising to feel like you’re contributing 

to part of that. When people are talking about textile 

shows, often you do feel like you’re on the back foot. 

But I want to get to a point where that’s not even part 

of the conversation.” 

Margery gave her own significant collection of textiles 

to Tūhura Otago Museum two years ago, which was 

exhibited by the museum. 

It highlighted how she sought to add to the museum’s 

collection using her knowledge as a maker. 

“So she wasn’t necessarily buying something because 

it maybe looked pretty on a wall. She was drawn to the 

techniques and the skill of the maker and a story it would 

tell. She fed that back and to the community through her 

own research and publication.” 

For Elle and Jane, who worked on the exhibition from 

different ends of the country – Elle in Dunedin with the 

archives held by the family and other city institutions, and 

Jane in Auckland with the Spinners and Weavers’ archive 

– there have been a few surprises along the way. 

For Elle it was the connections the Blackmans made 

with the “luminaries of mid-century textiles” the world 

over such as Anni Albers, Jack Lenor Larsen, Kaffe 

Fassett and Peter Collingwood. The latter two the 

Blackmans and another family hosted in their homes 

in Dunedin. 

Elle and Jane have organised the exhibition into 

three sections. The first looks at Margery’s early work 

and home. 

“Their home was a site of creative production, both 

Margery and Gary, together in this sort of excited, 

curious period where they were growing their work and 

their idea of what it means to live a full, rich, creative life, 

while also travelling and learning about the world and 

folding back into the work that they were producing 

themselves,” Elle says. 

The second showcases Margery’s work and the third 

is a reflection on her contributions to the community 

and the textiles she collected. 

They hope people will learn more and understood 

more about weaving as a result of the exhibition. 

“An exhibition like this is a fabulous opportunity 

for people to encounter the cultural DNA of 

textiles practice.” 

While Margery is an important part of the story, 

her story also touches on the stories of lots of 

important artists.


ABOVE: Margery Blackman, ‘Townscape’, 1986–87. 

Wool, silk, cotton. From the University of Otago 

Embellishment Collection. 

“She’s touched many people. She’s inspired many 

people she’s learned from, and learned with many, 

many people. She’s taught us a lot by studying her 

for four years.” 

Those who worked with Margery over the years also 

had a chance to acknowledge her contribution during 

a series of presentations and talks held recently at the 

gallery to mark the opening of the exhibition. 

University of Auckland Museums and Cultural Heritage 

associate professor and former curator of Pictorial 

Collections at the Hocken Library, Linda Tyler, worked 

with Margery on two of her many research projects. 

“Margery was a joy to work with. Her scholarly 

attention to detail was remarkable, as was her retentive 

memory. She enriched our understanding of women’s 

contribution to culture in Dunedin, particularly the 

networks that existed in the 19th and early 20th century 

between women artists who were interested in craft and 

in the natural world.” 

Linda says that Margery worked tirelessly as a 

researcher and documenter to shed light on neglected 

and overlooked parts of our history. 

“A gifted storyteller, she was able to offer guided 

tours of exhibits or talk to the public about aspects 

of collections, and she has a wealth of knowledge of 

weaving in Aotearoa which is unmatched.” 

Dr Patricia Te Arapo Wallace (Ngāti Porou), senior 

adjunct fellow at Aotahi School of Māori and Indigenous 

Studies, who was a contributing author – alongside 

Margery – to the book Whatu Kākahu: Māori Cloaks, 

edited by Awhina Tamarapa, said Margery had already 

been publishing her research on Māori cloaks while in her 

honorary role at Otago Museum in the mid-1980s. 

She inspired others in their research and generously 

shared her knowledge, which was highly respected in the 

Māori weaving community, leading to her being invited to 

write a chapter for the book. 

Moira White, Humanities curator at Tūhura Otago 

Museum, and Dr Jane Malthus, former Clothing and 

Textile Sciences and Design academic and dress historian 

and curator, also spoke at DPAG about Margery’s 

contributions to Otago’s museum and community. 

Margery Blackman: Weaving, Life, Dunedin Public Art Gallery, until October 13, 2024. 

04 - 29 July 2024 OPENING EVENT 6th July 2pm 

ASHLEY SMITH 

EYE/ 

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03 325 1944 

littlerivergallery.com 

art@littlerivergallery.com 

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