Not just a store but a reflection of the owner's passion and creativity. Pretty Useful is a sweet little shop, born from a desire to infuse a touch of beauty and humanity into our lives.

Are you yearning for fragrant summer evenings, dappled shade, and the feeling of a tropical island oasis? Let Matakana Frangipani transport you to your happy place: a world of vibrant colours and intoxicating fragrances right at home in your backyard.

Designed and tested for successfully targeting big aggressive pelagic fish, Mike and his family live in the small seaside town of Waipu, where they run their successful business, On Top Lures.

Beth and Roger Harper vividly remember the first time that they saw the stunning beauty of the Mahurangi Harbour from their boat, over 20 years ago now. It was magical then, and it is no less magical now.

Alta Surf, owned and operated by Mangawhai based Zac Balfour is a specialised company selling high performance surfboard fins. After experiencing numerous frustrations to find affordable high-performance fins over many years of surfing, Zac recognised there was an opportunity to address a gap in the market.

As of mid this year, one of the owners of 5R Studio, an interior design and styling company, made the move to the charming town of Waipu.

Nestled discreetly behind a lush, ivy-covered fence on Matakana Valley Road, is a charming cottage that has recently undergone a stunning transformation.

Having recently exhibited his series ‘Lov’in Lisbon’ at elemento Coffee x Gallery and with works permanently displayed for sale at Art Matakana Gallery, Simon Payton is saying, “Hello Warkworth.”

David Sullivan’s journey from the corporate world to olives and pottery tells a unique tale of artistic transformation and dedication to his passion.

It was a tough start to the year in Mangawhai, hit hard by the destructive deluge of Cyclone Gabrielle, followed by ongoing unseasonal rainfall and flooding. As the weather eventually settled, and the local community worked to repair damage and stay grounded, a seed of an idea was floated as a way to get through winter with greater resilience, to strengthen the community, and support mental health and wellbeing. At the same time rebuilding a connection to the stunning natural environment.

Interior design and styling company, 5R Studio, discusses interior design trends for 2024. With over 50 trends to explore worldwide, here they cover a few of their favourites.

The Joy Make Club was launched in May of this year by wife and husband duo, Marnie and Steve Hillier from their home- base in Waipu. Introducing you to the world of knitting with colourful, fun and locally produced at-home knit kits.

In the idyllic countryside of Hakaru, just outside of Mangawhai, stands a striking testament to sustainable living and innovative architecture – the Smith’s family home, aptly named Hilltop.

Filani Macassey is a Northland artist based in Kaiwaka. Having decided to downsize and relocate to Kaiwaka seven years ago, what was a necessity at the time Macassey says “ has become an opportunity to be part of a diverse community.”

Meet Hazel Hunt, a talented artist known for her exceptional skills in crafting original abstract, traditional, and landscape oil paintings. Located in the heart of Matakana, her passion for painting beckons art enthusiasts and admirers of creativity.

Embarking on a new build for herself was both an exhilarating and nerve-wracking endeavour for Beata Kelly. With a background in project management and interior design, she felt well-prepared to tackle the construction of her dream home, confident that her skills would translate seamlessly from managing projects for clients to managing her own personal project.

Warkworth local, Matilda Green along with her Untidy Podcast co-host, Hannah Davison, are welcoming listeners into their community with honest, real and supportive conversations that honour the person within the parent.

“Camdeboo Hill Station is a little off the beaten track, but so worth the journey!” say Directors of NZ Luxe, Penny Thorne Beech and Chrissie Dawkins about their new property. A wedding, corporate or individual occasion events venue that has to be seen to truly be appreciated and will be sure to wow even the harshest of critics.

The Pipi, formerly known as Smashed Pipi and Pipi Gallery, is a family run Mangawhai art gallery with a passion for appreciating art and connecting people to New Zealand made products.

Te Arai Links opened its South Course on 1 October 2022, and will open the North Course exactly one year later on 1 October 2023. Two world-class golf courses, each adding to the beautiful Te Arai coastline.