Pearls and Pipis

Kay and Trevor

2009-10-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

Matahi Lodge, Luxury Accommodation in Katikati, Bay of Plenty, NZ

Trevor dug the cellar into the slope himself; the ceiling is fragrant Lawson cypress, insulated with cement and a layer of turf. Trevor proudly opens the double doors to invite you enjoy his treasure.

In their cellar, the vintage from last year matures in barrels. The walls are stacked with bottled wine. Trevor laughs as he tells the story of the early days with their first guests. They hadn’t started bottling, so accessing the vintage involved sucking on a plastic tube to siphon from the barrel to the carafe. The guests loved it; Trevor grins as he tells of performing this ritual several times for photo opportunities.

Kay recalls purchasing the Italian Press and their first little barrel as a milestone. The early vines are individually owned by friends and neighbours. A $10 deposit got you a plastic tag with your name on it. These same friends are engaged in the harvest and the enjoyment of the fruits of their labours.

Full of fun and humor, Trevor’s fire evacuation policy involves ensuring the guests are aware of the location of his collection of vintage wine. Leave your valuables and grab as many bottles as you can on the way out.

Kay and Trevor were given a forward push by Kay’s cousin John. Over a glass or two at The Junction Wines in central Hawkes Bay, John Ashworth, former All Black front row, enthused to his mate that forming a vineyard was the best decision he and Jo had ever made. Trevor came striaght home to draw up plans for a few vines.

Kay is a keen golfer but Trevor loves the camera. They have a driving range to practice for the golf course next door. Trevor demonstrated his prowess with a hole in one for our cameras.

Trevor has developed a landing strip for light planes to accommodate his friends from his air traffic controller days and his Rugby Referee network.

Kay said they had never had a guest they didn’t enjoy, as we leave Trevor tells us to “come again, you don’t need a reason”.

Matahui Lodge, Luxury Accommodation in Katikati, Bay of Plenty, NZ

Te Popo Gardens

2009-10-03T02:41:00.004-07:00

Te Popo Gardens

Lorri says she is not really a people person. She invites you to meet her garden. Her husband Bruce is a chartered accountant.

Te Popo is her labour, her creation and the work of her husband Bruce. For thirteen years, Lorri has been the composer; nurturing and planning the Te Popo lullaby. A peaceful place to stay.

The garden is 5 acres set amongst 35 acres of woodland. It was recognised by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of National Significance in 2005.

Lorri explains the garden began with Graeme and Janet Marshall. Every tree and shrub was planted for the nectar or seeds that feed the birds that inspired Janet’s internationally renowned bird art.

Flynn, the wire-haired Fox terrier, willingly takes garden tours. Lorri says he will wait for you or even come and get you if he thinks you are lost. He bounces through the bluebells on his tip toes.

In the canopy, pine needles net the wind, providing a whispering backdrop to waves of birdsong.

The eye falls to brilliant carpets of Bluebells and blue Ajuga. Pathways draw you through, and past, and over. The swing bridge tests your sense of space again, pegged above the narrow ravine. Not satisfied with the high ceilings and low floors, Lorri is working on an amphitheatre of terraces where the best seats look down into magnolias.

Eucalyptus scents the air. Juxtaposition of colour, texture and form relate, surprise and please the senses.

Tariff $175 double; $125 single, breakfast included.

Evening meals $45 per head

Discounted rates apply to low season bookings (May - Sept) and multiple nights

Jo and John Ashworth

2009-10-03T02:41:00.003-07:00

John has painted a canvas to tell the story of the Junction Vineyard.

He draws together the Ruggles Truck from Joanne’s family, his Cantabrian Rugby Roots and the north facing red metal terraces of their farm.

Jo’s Family originally owned the Ruggles and Jo and John were able to bring it back into the family.

“It was going to Invercargill to a Truck Museum. Bill Richardson heard our story so he stopped, bought it back and said if we really wanted it we could have it.”

It took John a while to come around to using his All Black pedigree to promote their wine. Now he modestly says “we are pushing the rugby along a little bit.”

He is enthusiastic about the development of his wine. He talks of the cool nights and hots days that are good for Pinot, the long cool growing season allows for intense aromatic award winning wines.

His grapes are subject to a changeable climate that results in either gooseberry tones similar to Marlborough or the tropical fruit flavours of Hawks Bay.

His son Leith is the wine maker, combining the knowledge he has gained in studying the craft in NZ and France.

The Junction Vineyard, owned by former All Black front row forward John Ashworth and family, is located at the junction of State Highway 2 with State HIghway 50 on the windswept stony gravels of the Takapau Plains in Central Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.

This small, boutique vineyard enjoys the long, cool Central Hawkes Bay growing seasons, allowing son and winemaker Leith to naturally produce award-winning, intense, aromatic wines which are very distinctive and unique for you to enjoy.

Wines currently available:

2006 Pinot Gris
2007 Pinot Gris (Bronze 2008 Royal Easter Show)
2006 Riesling Three Sisters
2007 Riesling
2008 Side Step Gewurztraminer
2007 Sauvingnon Blanc
2008 Free Run Sauvignon Blanc
2008 Corner Post Sauvignon Blanc
2008 CHB Chardonnay
2008 Front Row Pinot Noir

Junction of Highway 2 & highway 50,
r.d.2 takapau, central hawkes bay,
new zealand.
0064 68558321

http://www.junctionwines.com/

Trout and Heather

2009-10-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Trout & Heather were married by a Wizard, a Witch and a Nun. They complement each other in an extraordinary way. They share an eclectic art & craft business that merges into lifestyle and leisure.

Trout has held a lifelong interest in fishing. He loves being able to walk out the gate and down fishing at the river in 15 minutes.

The Waipawa River regularly provides for the dinner table. Heathers wood shavings are an ideal fuel for the fish smoker. When we first met Trout he generously sent us home with a parcel of freshly smoked trout garnished with watercress.

He has collected antique fishing equipment & memorabilia for many years. Realising that this material is of interest to a great many people, he began to assemble his fishing installations.

They are composed of a selection of items such as fly wallets, fly reels, old lures, silk lines, gut casts, brass reels, fly vices, fly tying equipment & bamboo rods.

They have proved much sought after, not only by keen fishermen & collectors of memorabilia, but others who recognise their artistry & hold nostalgia for the fine traditions of the past.

Former owner of the very successful Oxus Antiques in Queenstown, Trout now consolidates his energies on his fishing interests, conducting considerable research from the banks of the Waipawa River.

Trout enjoys taking people camping on the river. It is a therapy, the water is a great healer. He says “you can relax around a campfire” Heather adds “with a few whiskeys if your want.”

Heather has worked with wood for many years. Training initially as a joiner, she became interested in hand tools & traditional ways of working with wood. She built her first pole lathe in 1999 & began making treenware.

A pole lathe is the earliest way of doing woodturning. It is beauty in its simplicity, operated by a treadle, with a springy pole providing the return. Treen is the old English word for tree, & treenware is anything made from a single piece of wood for domestic use.

This combination of pole & treen lead to a specialisation in spoons. Heather has developed many beautiful & useful spoon designs; Olive spoons and Ladles. The bowls of the spoons are carved with handtools, in a variety of fruit & nut woods.

Baby spoons ideal for feeding and especially good for teething babies to rub on their gums.

Robin and John

2009-10-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

Everyone's got a story to tell.

John loves the outdoors, he is an avid hunter and fisher. A trained motor vehicle mechanic, he gave it away to follow his passion for hunting.
As a young man, he worked in South Westland hunting on foot and from helicopters in the venison boom.

John has always looked for opportunities to spend his life doing what he loves. He had a go at farming for a couple of years and spent a season lobster fishing.

When he married Robin they managed a fishing lodge in Artic Canada for 4 months. John thought he wouldn't mind having a lodge of his own in New Zealand.

John describes walking into a nice piece of property, overlooking the Hanmer Valley. To finance his dream he worked on a lucrative little niche market. John captured and exported live Chamois to international zoos to pay for the foundations of the Lodge.

Once they started building, they found it had to be completed faster than expected. The dry nor-west wind threatened to warp the timber and John had to launch himself out of choppers again, catching more chamois with net guns to pay the builders.

Robin is the strong backbone of their business. She's his muse, manager and support crew.
"I'd be lost without her."

John says "We're pretty rich from the point of view of the people we meet and the lifestyle that we've got. That’s our wealth."

"Everyone's life is different, everyone's got a story to tell."

Isolation, but no hardship

2009-10-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

Robyn’s gaze sweeps across the mountain pastures.

She enjoys the natural beauty of their alpine home.
Her professional eye calculates the health of the ewes and their new lambs; always alert for changes that may require her assistance.

Robyn runs the sheep station and Angus Stud with her husband Johnny.

Her feminine creativity runs to garden art.

Two miniature Trafalgar Lions stare out from the platform of the relocated cottage, they have a long wait for a train.

The cottage was originally a New Zealand Railway House, but has now retired to the silence and splendid isolation of the hill country farm.

Isolation, but no hardship; the cottage has electricity and a “Fatso” cast iron log burner to keep it warm.

Robyn has softened the otherwise spartan feel of the cottage with freshly decorated walls, original paintings and old fashioned rose-print fabrics.

Farm fresh eggs complete the welcome in the kitchen.

The winding road to the cottage is sound with only one dry creek bed that fords easily. The road climbs sheep covered ridges and decends into green gullies.

The farm has been in the family for 109 years. Johnny’s father founded their Angus breeding line in the 1930s.

They now have a Stud of Australasian renown.

250 cows that winter on the hills, without reqiring supplementary feed.

60 bulls per year meet the stringent criteria of the stud principal and are sold in the annual bull sale on the property in June.

Around the homestead in spring, new calves frolick in the lush green pastures.

Pam and Mark

2009-10-01T21:00:00.000-07:00

Mark must come from entrepreneurial stock. He slips easily into talking about his brother Kim who made an astonishing movie, Shadowlands, with a camera mounted on a helicopter flying through the fiords. Because there was nowhere to play it, Kim built a cinema.
There was no bar to celebrate in, so he built one of those too. Mark jokes that he is the best patron.

In a remote place like Te Anau, transport by helicopter seems logical. Mark has been based there since he was 15 and has been flying choppers since he was 22.

Mark put the first notches in his belt in the days of venison recovery.

The culture of that era has been described in the novel Hawks by Andrew Grant: "This was a time when the cowboys rode choppers instead of horses and used semi-automatic weapons, not six guns. They lived, worked and sometimes died in the most rugged and spectacular corner of this country - the vast Fordland wilderness." Hawks, Andrew Grant 1999.
The art of capturing live deer meant honing up new skills and working with a mate who could jump out of the chopper at the fleeing animal. Not a job for the faint hearted: for more stories click here

Mark worked for a helicopter company in Alaska, contracted to the US Government transporting Biologists and Vets in a programme to fit radio collars and track elk, caribou, wolves and grizzly bears.

Visiting Colorado, Mark was intrigued by a Log Cabin. He determined that, when he found the right place in New Zealand, he would have a go building one himself. The 10 acres in Te Anau, remote and framed by the natural landscape certainly fit the bill. Mark and Pam enjoy their own log home and have a log cabin for guests.

When he is not at home in New Zealand Mark works as a chopper pilot, shifting drill rigs in Alaska.

Pam sometimes travels with Mark as his manager.
At home she is a keen golfer, living next door to the course.
Mark reckons she has her work cut out keeping an eye on him.

Pam and Mark offer a luxury two bedroom log cabin - a King loft and a King bedroom that sleep up to 5 people.
The Cabin is spacious and fully equipped with all modern amenities, telephone and wifi.

Relax and enjoy complimentary New Zealand wine by the fire or enjoy it in the sunshine on the deck. Breakfast supplies are provided to you daily and include fresh farm eggs, bacon and venison sausages, freshly baked bread, croissants, home-made muesli and fresh seasonal fruit.

$400 for 2 people
$50 extra per person

Moonlight bewitched Trevor

2009-10-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

Moonlight bewitched Trevor when he met Gail, together they have built a dream: a 9-hole golf course and lodge in the middle of nowhere.

Motivated by Gail's ancestral connection to the land and Trevor's love of the outdoors they have crafted an ecologically sensitive haven for native wildlife and guests alike.

Trevor and Gail now delight in their first grandchild.

Fringed by native forest, the golf course is linked by enchanting bush walks. Wild deer can sometimes be seen grazing the fairways at dusk & dawn. A large wetland is the centrepiece of the course and provides a haven for breeding waterfowl and the secretive fernbird.

The course consists of four par-3, three par-4 and two par-5 holes. Complimentary club use for guests.

Trevor is a Department of Conservation Ranger.

He and Gail have an active pest control strategy on the golf course and have planed their wetland garden to welcome other native wildlife.

Trev is an accomplished photographer and author. He celebrates the rugged environment of the Paparoa Range, on the West Coast, in his expedition journal "Touch the Wilderness"and his photos of native birds have been published in magazines.

Trev collects oral histories from the area and is always on for a yarn.

Trevor and Gail have sold a forested portion of their 120 acre property for the establishment of a Kiwi Crèche to be run by the Paparoa Wildlife Trust. Predator-proof fencing is currently being erected.

The Trust will collect eggs from the Paparoa ranges for incubation in a special facility in Canterbury. When the chicks hatch from the eggs they will be released into the safety of the Kiwi crèche until they are big enough to defend themselves against stoats and rats. Chicks are fitted with transmitters and monitored until they are 1.2kg.

You will be able to hear them calling and feeding at night from the lodge.

A Cultural Ambassador

2009-10-01T19:00:00.001-07:00

Glenice speaks Japanese.
She needed to because she had sixteen trips to Japan, promoting New Zealand, Wool and Wool Craft.

A resilient and driven woman with eight children and a farm to run with her husband; Glenice was, and still is, a weaver in her spare time at home in South Westland.

In 1989 she received a NZ Wool Board Award which paid her expenses to Japan on behalf of the NZ Embassy.

Glenice spoke at fairs and events about New Zealand. She was motivated to share her passion for wool with Japanese craft groups. With a laugh, she says she didn't dare try and teach anything about weaving because the Japanese culture has mastery with silk.

Glenice spent the majority of her time in the northern Hokkaido Prefecture.

Wool Craft was particularly suited to the long winters and she thought it would be a useful thing to teach. She further explains that, in the North, there is snow for five months and the sea freezes as the temperature drops to 40 below.

One of her highlights was experiencing the autumn salmon run.

Glenice was often asked to talk about New Zealand at schools. She marvels at her experiences; she once taught a kindergarten class of 120 5-year-olds how to felt. After a very busy two hours, each of them had brightly coloured NZ wool ball to take home to show their family.

With a New Zealand-Japan Foundation Grant she was able to take her husband Jim to Japan with her. He was a great help; carrying and organising her equipment for events. He also entertained with the men, which saved her another job.

Jim had been part of the occupying force after WWII.
He had always liked the Japanese, their diligence and their strong work ethic had appealed to his farming mindset. He was astonished at the developments since his time in Tokyo during the war when the city had been flattened.

Glenice described her trips to Japan as unpaid working holidays - "I was just a cultural ambassador" she says, as if anyone of us would have the artistry or the tenacity.

View Glenice Purcell in a larger map

Putting eco-friendly into action

2009-10-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

Andre is a South African with a passion for New Zealand. He regularly volunteers for DoC. Andre is an outdoorsy sort of bloke, he has guided throughout the South Island for 27 years and climbed Mt Cook. Andre married his Scottish maiden in an Edinburgh Castle 8 years ago and brought her home to New Zealand. Alison brought her Aga… Her passion for cooking has extended to a vast vegetable garden. Almost all the vegetables she cooks with have come from her own tunnel houses. They both love that they share their home with native birds. Weka, Owls, Tui and Bellbirds are regular guests. Kiwi are sometimes heard. Alison and Andre are mindful of their impact on the environment. They have a plan to manage their consumption. They have thought it through and put it into action. They collect rain water and are installing solar water heating. Alison and Andre have green thumbs. They have made the most of the temperate climate and ample rainfall to foster an extensive fruit and vegetable garden. They use coffee grounds, high in nitrogen, from a local café to mulch their gardens. Andre and Alison provide luxury accommodation in a unique, remote and beautiful location. Unwind in the outdoor bath while the sun sets and enjoy sumptuous food and engaging hospitality.

Anne Bannock - Artist

2009-10-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Anne Bannock Artist in the Nelson Region

Get Lost in the Nicest Possible Way

Anne Bannock's Gallery and Cottage Accommodation

Up in the Orinoco Valley, Anne has had a go at just about every art media: etching and print making, painting with oils, stained glass, weaving and knitting.

At the moment she is absorbed in pastels and watercolours.

Inspired by her bright, colourful, casual garden "it’s a real garden with some weeds in it" Anne says in her cheery manner. "I like to go with what ever is happening and paint what comes."

She delights in the creative process.

"Some of my past paintings I think… Well how did I do that? I don’t think I could paint like that again. Its like that. You start off with an idea but somehow it comes out different when it leaves your fingers."

In her Gallery she has 8 costumes that were accepted by the Wearable Art Awards.

An arty visitor can browse in peace while other members of the family explore the Hedge Maze and get lost in the nicest possible way.

Anne Bannock is inspired by her colourful garden. You are invited to explore her 26ha property, the Orinoco Stream meanders by with lovely picnic spots and small swimming holes.

The mature hedge maze is a challenge, feeding the eels is fun, and the art gallery inspiring.

Get lost, in the nicest possible way.

Orinoco Valley, Nelson Region

A self contained 3-bedroom cottage, well away from traffic noise.

The water supply is sourced from a pure underground spring.

Excellent art and craft outlets, vineyards and restaurants are virtually on the doorstep. Anne and Mike can point you to great trout fishing, picnic and swimming spots. There are numerous bike riding trails, both on and off the quiet roads.

The cottage has beautiful mountain and pastoral views.

1 Queen, 1 Double, 3 Singles and 2 Sofa beds

$85 The Orinoco Cottage

● accommodation for 2 people, $10 per extra person

$270 New Zealand Summer Romance

●2 nights accommodation ●2 dinner hampers with wine

Run away to the hidden seclusion of the Orinoco Valley for 2 nights. Take pleasure in crafting your own delicious meal from a hamper of local vege, garden herb and poultry, complimented by a local white wine. Let your creativity flow or follow Anne's easy, tried and true Lemon and Herb Chicken recipe that comes with you provisions. Continue the indulgence with a luxurious, aromatic soak in the deep ball-and-claw bath to finish the bottle of wine. Bliss.

$500 Art Retreat / Group Workshop

●3 nights accommodation for up to 4 people

Stay at the cottage and spend two full days on location working up a composition with casual tutelage from Anne. Bring your own art materials and food.

Autumn is a lovely time to capture the colour & texture of the deciduous trees.

Early spring is inspiring, when you can still see the bones of the trees, highlighted by verdant new growth and blossom.

$595 A Week away in the Valley

●7 nights accommodation for two

Turn your mobile phone off and escape for a whole week up the Orinoco Valley. Bring your fishing rod, sketch pad, hiking boots and a good book.

- Specials -

$510 Between Autumn and Spring ●stay 7 nights for the price of 6

Anne's Pamper Hamper* - stay 4 nights or more and receive a special, creative treat.

*Not available in conjunction with any other offer

- Events -

On Thusday mornings, Anne attends a social gathering of neighbours.

Anne says they have a casual approach, "we puddle along, going with the flow and picking up hints." Anne helps where she can but mostly it’s conversation while holding a pencil or brush. The group meet as a way of getting to know each other. "Too often, in the country you can live next door but don’t see enough of each other."

●You are invited to come along with Anne, what a lovely way to meet real local people.

October Garden Ramble - Anne and Mike regularly open their garden for this event.

Reclaimed, Pre-Loved and Re-Used.

2009-09-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

Reclaimed, Pre-Loved and Re-Used. These were Sandy's words to describe the eclectic mix of influences that she and Russell put into their home in Barrytown.

It was easy to get Sandy and Russell talking about the process of building their home. As I listened I realised they were talking about their own journey. I heard their hopes and dreams for a lifestyle that shares the values of the past and allows freedom to enjoy life at a slower pace. They want people to come and share this magic.

Sandy said they felt the building should belong to the West Coast.

They have gone to extraordinary lengths to incorporate local history and pay respect to wholesome working people of the area.

They elevated timbers from farm outbuildings to treasures remodelled for indoors.

A collection of beautiful wood salvaged from old sheds and cattle yards sits comfortably under the gaze of a stained glass window from the Greymouth Post Office.

When they reclaimed the timber floor from a joiner shop they made a marvellous discovery: Carved on the underside of the boards was the date 1901. The carpenters who laid the floor in the early port of Greymouth would certainly be surprised about the current presentation of their elaborate signatures. Their names now feature as a cryptic decoration in the living room.

A giant wave of bush clad hills rises up behind the house. She sits safely anchored to the land with sturdy beams from the old Cobden Railway Bridge.

Russell designed the high curved ceilings to echo the curves of the land. "He is good with plans, being a landscape gardener" said Sandy as she minimised her input by describing it as "a steep learning curve for a hairdresser."

It was Sandy's vision to rough plaster the vaulted ceilings. Lovely natural light entering from watery seascapes outside is captured by the plasterwork and scattered across the kitchen.

Local beauty outdoors and local culture inside crafted from the imaginations and different backgrounds of these two understated people. Russell from his New Zealand culture and Sandy from her Caribbean roots in British Colonial Bermuda.

The overall effect sings of people and places, here and beyond.

Wanstead Hotel

2009-09-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

Wanstead Hotel

Bev and Peter

2009-09-05T13:00:00.000-07:00

Peter and I have returned home from another travel adventure. Europe, Jordan and Egypt this time. I enjoy the art, colour and texture I find in markets and bazaars around the world.

Peter and I are farmers, having farmed sheep, cattle and crop in Canterbury for 36 years. I have spent many wonderful years weaving, mostly natural wool wall hangings depicting our beautiful NZ landscapes. Innumerable hangings are in public buildings and private collections around the world. I have tried my hand at many other crafts and had loads of fun over the years.

Peter gets up in the morning planning his game of golf and ends the day dreaming of the next.

Peter has been a keen golfer for more than 20 years.
He is a warm, generous, understated Canterbury Bloke, you won't find a better golfing guide.
Peters passion for golf can take to you any one of several nearby country courses, nestled amongst beautiful scenery, stunning mountain backdrops and clean fresh air.

We offer a country homestay about 7km from Ashburton. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Beachcombers

2009-09-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Malcolm is a retired engineer and Cheryl is passionate about gardening. In a moment of inspiration they decided Awatuna was for them .

In 2006, as visitors to the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, they spotted a hectare of land with a B&B looking out to a boisterous sea.
Once they entered the garden and discovered the Waimea creek, flowing past on its way across the sand to the sea, they knew it would be home.

Cheryl uses the beach, in her garden and in her home.
Every day, on the way back up the beach to home she brings a wheelbarrow full of driftwood; some for the fire and some special pieces become garden art.

The palette of coloured stones inspires her mosaics. Cheryl doesn’t describe herself as an artist, but her garden tells another story. The sculptures are the artistic interpretation of her beach.

Occasionally the ocean provides an abundance of kelp. Cheryl follows the great coastal tradition of valuing the goodness of seaweed for the garden. She describes draping herself in trees of kelp to drag them home.

Every day the wild sea changes the beach; shuffling coloured stones, washing up intricate driftwood shapes and other surprising treasures.

Cheryl and Malcolm wish to share their magical lifestyle with visitors, they want people to come play on the beach.

During the summer, when the creek is a gentle flow, the sea builds up a sand bar creating a long lagoon.
The lagoon drifts lazily past the garden, inviting hours of beachcombing, kayaking, bird watching and even a little whitebaiting in season.

The lounge is presided over by Miranda, a black cat enjoying her dotage from her favourite chair. Max, the white cat has more energy and helps with the gardening.
The sheep and goats, whose original purpose was to help keep the grounds in order, are now tame, hand-fed individuals requiring constant supervision to keep them OUT of the gardens. One days happy munching would destroy the years of tender care they have put into an extensive planting programme in the extreme coastal environment.

Cheryl and Malcolm have researched the history of the area and can tell of the mining, centred on their creek. They can point you to the former goldfields where tunnels, tailings and the bush clad hills show the difficult conditions miners encountered in their workings.

Malcolm is a Tubist. He has played in many brass bands and now enjoys making a contribution to the community through the Westland Brass Band. The band participates in many district events enabling Malcolm to meet some very interesting characters.

Raewyn and Rod

2009-09-02T23:58:00.000-07:00

Raewyn and Rod are the custodians of the house built by the Hunter Family.

George Hunter, his wife Helen and family of 10, plus a cow, came to New Zealand aboard the ship “Duke of Roxburgh” from Portsmouth.
Their journey took 128 days and the family arrived on the 8th of February 1840, two days after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

The cow had died but the piano forte, plough share and other goods arrived safely. Sir George was a respected public figure and Parliamentarian.

The Hunter Family built the church on the property in the 1870s, importing stained glass windows that date from the 18th century.

The Porangahau Station Homestead was destroyed by fire in 1920. It was rebuilt in the Arts and Crafts Architectural style of the times. The house is informal and unpretentious, but sophisticated in a subtle way. The design suggests handcraftsmanship and sits in harmony with the grounds, swimming pool and tennis court.

Material referenced from “Hunter, a history of an early New Zealand Family” compiled by William Gruar and “New Zealand Houses – The Arts and Crafts” weblog by Deon Swiggs

Valmai and Ken

2009-09-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

"In the company of Good Country Folk"

This was how guests describe Valmai and Ken (pronounced Val -may).
The couple have the natural ability to make their guests feel at ease.

Valmai can't pin-point one interest because her life is full of enthusiasm.
Woolcrafts, felting, gardening, cooking and being a grandmother, Valmai still manages to fit in time for her Lions Club, the Women's Institute and Lay Preaching in the Presbyterian Church.
When I talked with Valmai she had just been to an e-marketing course.

Ken is a retired farmer. He is also a member of the Lions Club and is a Past District Governor.

He has a boat and is always looking for an opportunity to get it out on the hydro lakes. He has plenty of rods and enjoys taking guests out fishing.
He has some favourite Salmon fishing rivers and although he doesn't guarantee that you'll land a fish he's pretty confident you'll have a great day.

Valmai and Ken have a comfortable B&B in a clean green country atmosphere. All guest rooms are on the ground floor

NZ $90 double
NZ $50 single
Breakfast is included - full or continental
Discounted rates for guests staying 3 nights or more
Dinner is available on request - NZ $30 per person. This includes NZ wines. In season the vegetables for the meals come from our garden.

Guests are invited to enjoy being part of our household, living rooms, TV etc.

“Make a cup of tea in the kitchen ... our home is your home.”

Paddy and Alan

2009-09-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

Alan and Paddy find their B&B is a fun project they do together.

They have been married 42 years and are still waiting to have a row. Paddy says Alan is great at cooking steak and a dab hand at pancakes in the morning. Paddy sets the table and chats with the guests.

The art of hospitality and conversation is as natural as breathing for Paddy. Her mother immigrated from Ireland as an adventurous 21 year old in 1932 and met Paddys father, another immigrant from Derbyshire.

Alan, Paddy and their children travelled to Ireland, as New Zealanders do. When they were there Paddy kissed the Blarney Stone against her families advice. They thought gaining further eloquence of speech could be hazardous for her.

They now have 12 grandchildren.

Reefton was founded on, and named for, a gold-laden quarts reef. Mining has continued on the same reef since the 1870s. Alan works as a gold assayer for Oceana Gold, to keep the operation on the right track.

Visitors since 14th September 09

2009-09-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

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A "spine tingling" Kiwi experience - see video

2009-09-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Ian Cooper owns and operates Okarito Kiwi Tours

It all began one night out in the bush when Ian was looking for kiwi. He was sitting quietly enjoying the night sky. From the bush a kiwi emerged. Ian was hooked.

Ian came to New Zealand in 1998 as a backpacker. He was visiting all the small towns around the Country. Late 1998, Ian was dropped off at the turnoff to Okarito. It was raining, however, the first car picked Ian up and bought him into the village.
Intending to stay 2 nights then move on to the next small place something captured his heart. The love of Okarito life began.

Ian was lucky to be able to earn his board and keep, helping out at the local Motel/Backpacker.
11 years later and Ian has now built a house, bought out his long term partner and little Daisy is running round with the proud knowledge of being born on the West Coast.

In 1999, Ian became involved with the Department of Conservation after seeing his first kiwi. He started to volunteer his time on the local kiwi program. Since those beginnings he has gone onto to work with the majority of the kiwi species. He has had stints working on many remote Islands. One of them - Codfish Island, working with the 'Rarest' Parrot in the world, the Kakapo.

Ian and Wendy bought a small piece of land in Okarito in 2000. Not being affluent people, they had to return to the UK for 18 months for work their socks off. Arriving back at Heathrow with only 5 pounds between them, they both found work quickly and worked solid with the ultimate goal to return to Okarito in a year and a half. Working 3 jobs each, the goal was reached.

After returning to Okarito, Ian and Wendy set about building their house. Starting at the end of April 2004, they moved in by August !

Ian worked as a kayak guide for a couple of years, he decided he wanted to be self sustaining. Always a dream to take people out into the bush at night he approached DoC with his plans. Expecting to be laughed at and told to go away, he was surprised to be told that he was the right person to be undertaking the rarest job on the South Island!

Concessions in New Zealand are required to work in a National Park. They are notoriously slow to obtain and usually full of red tape and legal jargon. Ian applied for his concession in July 2006. His concession was granted by the Minister and he opened for business in September 2006. An incredible start to an incredible journey.

With a professional approach and the emphasis on low-key, low-impact guiding, Ian was hoping to achieve a 50% rate in seeing the rarest kiwi in the world. In the Season 2008-09 his success rate was an impressive 98%.

This year Ian was approached by the Oiled Wildlife Response Team. He has since taken up the position as 'Wildlife Expert' on the West Coast.

His passion will remain sharing the special environment with tourists and travellers. His main focus will always be the welfare of the kiwi. His trip involves not only seeing this rare bird but learning about what makes New Zealand the perfect home for these iconic birds.

Many of Ians visitors have shared their experiences on www.rankers.co.nz

Ian's tours operate all year round. His trips start around 1 hour prior to sunset at his office/house.

Bookings are essential as Ian takes a maximum of 10 people per night. Trips cost $60 per person

Please bring :
Warm, but, Quiet clothes ( NO WATERPROOFS )
Sturdy boots
Insect repellent
Great Attitude
Patience
Patience
Patience

Saved by the movie man in the velvet coat

2009-09-01T03:51:00.000-07:00

There was not much to do in Hokitika, New Zealand, on a rainy Saturday evening in winter. You might admire the new Vice-Grip pliers you purchased that morning (most everything but the Tea Room shuts in the afternoon), but even for a west coast South Island town, the options were limited.

The options for my daughter and me expanded delightfully upon a chance encounter with a local during a break in the rain.

Luke Wagoner, framed in an open yellow-and-red art deco doorway, cut a dashing and exotic figure in a crushed-velvet smoking jacket and the style of beard fashionable in the 19th century. He was airing out his "cinema" and preparing for his evening's roles there as ticket taker, concessionaire, bartender, projectionist, host and owner.

From the outside, The Crooked Mile Talking Pictures looked like what it once was: a rural bank; an unremarkable two-storey cube located on the quiet - even for Hokitika - end of the long, doglegged main street. The theatre specialized in New Zealand and art-house films and was as far from the sticky-floored HumungoPlex experience as is imaginable.

Wagoner invited us in. The evening's film would soon be starting, but there was no rush: We were the only patrons. Eventually the "crowd" swelled to seven.

Seating was three rows of mismatched sofas and armchairs on risers. They were made homier by rainbow-coloured Afghan throw rugs and a motley assortment of pillows. The high ceiling was pressed tin, the walls mustard-coloured and adorned with hangings and gold leaf, the windows and the screen curtained in heavy red-velvet drapes. But it was chilly inside so we kept our coats on.

Wagoner owns the place and lives above the vault in the former bank manager's suite. He took our entry fee (about $8.50) and smiled proudly in the lamplight from behind an old oak concession counter that served as a bar. Yes, bar. We couldn't get popcorn, licorice, nachos or bucket-sized soft drinks, but we could get a glass of beer or wine.

Wagoner poured me a generous glass of a wonderful local white wine. My daughter and I split a slab of locally made organic chocolate as he told us a little about the place. He needed only four customers to make a go of it each evening. Digital is the cost-cutting key. A former projectionist, now he just slips in a DVD.

"Four customers is fine," he said, speaking quietly, almost shyly. "But more is better and we are fire-rated for 80." He judges success more by laid-back community standards. "People seem very happy to have it ...," he said, stopping to greet incoming patrons by name. The place does get crowded and hopping during occasional music events, which Wagoner also promotes.

The film was enjoyable, but it was the ambience that made the evening unique and memorable. Dad and daughter sunk into a big comfy leather couch, cozy under a large, handmade afghan as if we were at home in a rec room. We drank in the atmosphere (and more wine), nibbled chocolate and listened to the rain pelt against the frame walls.

The movie was long, but not long enough. At the conclusion, we said our goodbyes. We exited into the rain, knowing we would never see a film again in a theatre like The Crooked Mile Talking Pictures.

Article reproduced with kind permission from author Anthony Jenkins of The Globe and Mail, Canada.

A Match Made in Heaven

2009-09-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

“Swade” Finch, born and raised in Titahi Bay near Wellington, NZ, has been living on the West Coast of the South Island for over 30 years. He spent 10 years as head guide at the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki south of the glaciers near Haast. Prior to that, he spent many years deep sea fishing in Alaska as well as crayfishing in the most interesting fashion off the West Coast of NZ with long time friend Barry Wyber (ask him how they launched the boat – that’s a great story!).

Guiding at the Lodge he spent much of his time with guests from around the world, showing them the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin, leading them on walks through the magnificent rainforest and entertaining them in the evenings as he transformed into chief bartender!

Paula Sheridan, born and raised in the extreme climes of Canada, came to New Zealand as a tour guide. Having spent some years in a remote part of British Columbia working at a luxury Helicopter Ski Resort, her interests moved to guiding guests through the Canadian Rockies by bicycle. She arrived on the shores of NZ in 2001 and she, along with many guests over the years, travelled by bicycle around the South Island, spending time at the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki along the way. You can see where this is heading!

Three years later, a gleam in Swade’s eye and a sparkle in Paula’s led them to agreeing to spending some time exploring the little known village of Okarito together. The quiet, remote village with its long stretches of beach along the wild coast was a haven for two guides to relax and yes, fall in love!

The next few years ensued with Paula’s return to Canada and back again and a few too many farewells being said on those same beaches of Okarito, so she decided to uproot from CanadaNew Zealand. Leaving the cycle tour business somewhat behind, she worked as a kayak guide in Okarito and set up home in a wee bach. It didn’t take long for her and Swade to combine forces and seize the opportunity to work together when the small eco-tourism based business of Okarito Boat Tours came up for sale.

Swade and Paula now live happily in a somewhat larger bach on the beach at Okarito. Running Okarito Boat Tours keeps them both in the guiding business sharing with their guests the magnificence of the scenery of the west coast and the birdlife on the Okarito Lagoon and River.

Paula, a yoga teacher and massage therapist, is also furthering her studies in natural therapies with reflexology, aromatherapy and Reiki and works out of her studio at home. She and Swade round out their busy schedule by managing the local campground in Okarito, and a holiday home for others looking to explore this quiet little village and the wonderful experiences it offers up.

They welcome you to come and explore this “magic” part of the coast of New Zealand and maybe even learn where “Swade” got his name – and that’s another story!

Veller, Fishing and Fun

2009-09-01T02:00:00.001-07:00

The Piano accordian has been in Vellers arms since the age of ten.

The young Veller was encouraged by her Uncles in the Kokatahi band . Her family and friends always dragged her in front of a piano at social gatherings.

Now integral members of the band Veller and husband Roger, proudly wear the distinctive red uniform and plays the old-time music with the band.

The Kokatahi Band is a Cultural Icon, world famous on the West Coast. Every festival and get together on the coast features their unique performance. http://www.kokatahiband.com/

Veller and Roger are enthusiastic Archery Club members.
If you are also an archer you would be welcome to come along to the Sunday meetings with them.

Fishing Guide:
Veller can take you to a beautiful, quiet spot up the river to try for a Trout.

Gold Panning Guide:

Veller will show you how its done and take you to a likely spot.

Woof Woof - a marvellous little bird

2009-09-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

Woof Woof has lived at Whanagrei Native Bird Recovery Centre since he was about 5 days old. When Robert Webb took him in he knew the little tui chick would never fly. Robert hoped the Tui would be of educational value for visitors, but at 2 years of age Woof Woof became a star... He named himself and began to talk. Woof Woof picks up commonly used phrases but has a startling moments where he directs visitors "around the other side and up the steps" to see the other birds on display. (Watch a video of Woof Woof talking below) "A Tui in captivity is a sorry sight" Robert cautions. "Tuis are specialist feeders and would not ususally survive in captivity long term. It just wouldn't work." Robert would hate to think that people would even try to catch a Tui as they have fragile long legs and claws. Robert discovered that Tuis were occasionaly kept at Maori Pa sites in the past. They were housed in Rata vine cages and were known talkers. The Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre is not about caging native birds but about rescuing and rehabilitating them back in to the wild. You can help to provide food and medicines for these birds. www.whanagreinativebirdrevovery.org.nz email nativebirdrecovery@xtra.co.nz Visit the centre: State highway 14 Maunu Whanagrei ph. 09 438 1457

Jude and Geoff

2009-08-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

We met in Sierra Leone where Geoff was working for a British charity; WaterAid, and I was working for Save the Children Fund UK, in war torn Liberia.
We lived together in Sierra Leone for 2 1/2 years before leaving, due to civil unrest as the war in Liberia spilled over into Sierra Leone.

We then moved to live and work in the Republic of Georgia for two years with Oxfam.
During that time we had Sasha, and moved on to North Korea for a 6 month contract – INTERESTING place!!!
From there we lived in Turkmenistan for two years, and then Krgyzstan for 1 year. We had our second daughter; Zelina. We've also spent time living in London, and Northern Ireland where Geoff's family live.

Living in Little River has been such a relief really.
After all the travelling around, I just so like being in one place, and it's such a beautiful, peaceful place. Both Geoff and I have joined the local Fire Brigade, and I also volunteer for St John Ambulance as well. It's helped us to settle in to this community.

We decided to run a Bed & Breakfast as a way to keep in contact with overseas visitors and different cultures etc. We always had people staying with us anyway, I just love making them cosy and making a fuss over them! Little River suits us as it's not too far off the beaten track, but rural enough to enjoy a small community and bring our children up in secure setting.

Running our B&B has been a blast! We bought and renovated the cottage next door, so it's easy to keep tidy, not like my house! We have had lots of guests, and enojyed meeting people and hearing their stories.

The most exciting thing lately, is the Emergency Cadets Services we have helped start here. It's a first for the NZ Fire Service. We have 22+ regulars which meet every Friday evening aged between 10-16. They just love it and the proof is in the pudding as we've been running for since March this year! Our focus is on fire, first aid, civil defence, and we're going to link up with the Department of Conservation as well. We have heaps of things we want to expand into like camping, cooking etc etc. It's all so exciting!!!!

Joseph and Nicky

2009-08-15T15:59:00.000-07:00

Even though it was many years ago, Joseph remembers driving over the hill from Christchurch to Lyttelton for the first time. As the expansive views of sparkling blue harbour and rugged, notched crater walls opened before him the only question in his mind was, "Why would I want to live anywhere else in Christchurch?"

It wasn't long before he and Nicky settled into their Victorian house and set about making restorations for the bed-and-breakfast, nestled in the village of Lyttelton at the base of the slopes of a huge and ancient volcanic crater. No need for concern; the last eruption and took place more than 11 million years ago and the volcano has long been extinct! At the time however the results were somewhat devastating and the explosion left a large open crater that was flooded by the sea. Residents of Lyttelton have long since been grateful for this fact, given that most enjoy a beautiful harbour view framed by the green hills of the Banks Peninsula beyond.

Part of the attraction of the location for Joseph and Nicky is the easy access to the hills and sea. Both are keen outdoor enthusiasts and spend most weekends kayaking, mountain biking, climbing, walking or some combination of the above. Lyttelton is unique in that there aren't many places in the world where it's possible to do any of these sports without getting into your car.

Joseph and Nicky are both teachers so after a busy day in the classroom they enjoy the peace and quiet of Lyttelton, playing with their two cats in the garden, tending to the fruit trees, vegetable garden and chickens. The chickens are especially important since they provide your breakfast eggs!

The area is a great place to unwind and ideal for nature lovers. Behind the bed-and-breakfast are a number of walks leading up to the Crater Rim reserves where regenerating bush and bird-life flourish. See the exposed volcanic cliff faces where the rock climbers practise their art.

Nicky and Joseph are active environmentalists and both volunteer time to assist local groups.

Joseph hosts a regular weekend "Enviro Show" on the local radio station called, you guessed it, Volcano Radio, interviewing many colourful characters. If you have a story to tell and you're interested, you could even find yourself at the sharp end of a microphone!

The Unofficial Mayor of Katikati

2009-08-08T22:33:00.000-07:00

Nancy Merriman - Katikati Heritage Museum

Step back into the past, with walk-through scenes and exhibits at the Katikati Heritage Museum. You will be pleasantly surprised, at how much fun history can actually be. The museum is the home of the Goodwin bottle collection which is the largest of its kind in Australasia, it also features the LPs of yesteryear collection – both very impressive.

The friendly barn style museum, represents the pioneering days when Irish immigrants first settled in Katikati, up until today. It is believed that Katikati is the site of the only planned Ulster Irish settlement in the world.

Educational programs are available which meet the school curriculum from years 1 through to Year 8 and can be tailored to class and age need. These programs are hands on and children are dressed as in 100 years ago in education.For enquiries and unit plans call (07)549 0651.

Prices for admission and tours of the Museum are:

Adults $6.00
Children $4.00
Family (two adults and three children) $20.00

Group bookings of ten or more adults is $5.00 per head

The Katikati Heritage Museum is located in the Bay of Plenty New Zealand it is a fun, educational and affordable journey through the past, a destination not to be missed.

The Misty River Cafe, Waipawa

2009-08-03T22:46:00.000-07:00

Middle of a Recession, Middle of Winter, Middle of Nowhere...

...and thriving.

When Kris knew his mother was coming to cook for him he was confident he would do OK.

Julie makes specials every day because she like the variety. She says the customes have confidence in the quality of the food so everything on the menu sells.

Attention to detail extends to the sunny courtyard herb garden and a sweet tussy-mussy in the loo.

12 High St Waipawa

Internet Access in a welcoming, feminine environment

2009-08-03T02:23:00.000-07:00

Sharons quiet, central business is the perfect spot to catch up on your family emails and update your online journal.
She is accommodating to customers requests and easy to engage.
Sharon is generous with her time and knowledge. She offers training and support in a welcoming and feminine environment.

Sharon opened her own internet cafe in order to provide a more flexible service and to extend her scope and gain fulfillment from assisting her customers.

She has the creativity to whip up business cards and flyers for locals, her prices are very reasonable.

www.computerwhys.co.nz
Look for her just across the road from the Mall entrance at:
196 Oxford Street, Levin.
You can also phone her on (06) 368 8063

Pearls and Pipis

Kay and Trevor

Te Popo Gardens

Jo and John Ashworth

Junction of Highway 2 & highway 50,r.d.2 takapau, central hawkes bay,new zealand.0064 68558321

http://www.junctionwines.com/

Trout and Heather

Robin and John

Isolation, but no hardship

Pam and Mark

Moonlight bewitched Trevor

A Cultural Ambassador

Putting eco-friendly into action

Anne Bannock - Artist

Reclaimed, Pre-Loved and Re-Used.

Wanstead Hotel

Bev and Peter

Beachcombers

Raewyn and Rod

Valmai and Ken

Paddy and Alan

Visitors since 14th September 09

A "spine tingling" Kiwi experience - see video

Saved by the movie man in the velvet coat

A Match Made in Heaven

Veller, Fishing and Fun

Woof Woof - a marvellous little bird

Jude and Geoff

Joseph and Nicky

The Unofficial Mayor of Katikati

The Misty River Cafe, Waipawa

Internet Access in a welcoming, feminine environment

Junction of Highway 2 & highway 50,
r.d.2 takapau, central hawkes bay,
new zealand.
0064 68558321