A flexible approach
Growing up as a sponsored surfer in the United Kingdom, Matt Burner has used a wide range of surf products. He’s come full circle and is now supporting aspiring pro surfers in New Zealand with wetsuits from his start-up, Flex Wetsuits.
Above and beyond
Helicopter pilot, Simon Owen, on his work with the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopters, where each flight can be the difference between life and death.
Let the spirit take you
Tucked away on the shores of the sparkling Kaipara Harbour, are two ex-dairy farms that are in the process of being regenerated and repurposed into a biodiverse region with organic market gardens, native forest, a concert and festival venue, and an off-grid eco village. The project is being directed by Franko Heke, one of the team behind music and wellness festivals, NZ Spirit Festival and Resolution.
Through the lens
If you've flipped through magazines featuring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's golf courses, chances are you've seen the work of Mangawhai resident Ricky Robinson. His work with golf courses throughout the country has earned him recognition as a leading figure in the world of golf course photography.
Crafting memorable beverages in the heart of Matakana
Nestled in the heart of the lively Matakana village, Daily Organics welcomes you to a world of wholesome beverages. Renowned for their iconic kombucha, this locally owned brand has recently opened a charming shop at their factory and brewery, marking an exciting new chapter in the Daily Organics journey.
From Warkworth rides to global competitions
In the world of mountain biking, where rugged trails and adrenaline rushes define the sport, one young woman from Warkworth, is taking her talent international. George Swift is a determined and adventurous rider who has turned her passion into a global pursuit, competing in the 2023 Mountain Bike Enduro World Series.
A destination like no other
Ian and Cindy Fox, together with their daughter Jade, opened Waipu Caves Farm Park earlier this year with a vision to see people, families and youth spend time in the great outdoors, engaging with nature. You’ll discover a diverse range of activities and environments to explore and enjoy; including the Milky Way Glow Worm Cave.
Explore the great outdoors
In the heart of New Zealand's captivating landscapes, adventure meets tranquillity through an array of nature-based activities and immersive social experiences. Social Nature Movement has something for everyone, from luxury glamping experiences to bioluminescence kayaking tours, the outdoor adventures for you to enjoy in and around our region are endless.
Trash to treasure
Until Vélos started business three and a half years ago, owners of carbon fibre bicycles were doomed to throwing away damaged frames. However, Dan Burrows, a veteran of working with carbon fibre and composite materials in the boat-building industry, spotted the niche and opened Vélos so he could rescue those damaged bicycles and stop the flow of material into landfills.
Balancing act
An e-commerce dynamo, Sarah Gunn speaks to Junction about her role as Chapter Area Lead/General Manager at The Warehouse Group and how she maintains a healthy work-life balance.
A seed of inspiration
Indoor Plant Lady (at least that is what the locals have come to know her by), Siobhan Vermaak, uprooted her family and business four months ago from bustling Auckland to embrace a more serene lifestyle in the verdant haven of Kaipara.
The horse-human connection
Horse trainer, Tyson Miller, has a passionate commitment to nurturing the individual partnership between horse and rider. Trust-based horsemanship and understanding a horse’s mind is where his core values lie as a horse trainer.
Facing the future
AI Consultant, futurist, marketer, and founder of Ten Past Tomorrow, Mark Laurence, is telling anyone that is concerned about what Artificial Intelligence may mean to them personally or in business to ‘embrace it, don’t fear it’.
Plant-based baking – sweet!
Recent Matakana resident, Carine Claudepierre, brings with her a passion for vegan baking fueled by her love of the planet. Sharing her recipes online as a food content creator is something she’s been doing for many years, and now she’s looking forward to the opportunity to connect with her new community through food.
Cultivating a word garden
After a long and distinguished career in journalism, including working as a senior producer for the BBC World Service, Cliff Taylor has committed himself to a new path as a novelist. His fourth novel, The Spanish Garden, has just been published, and a fifth is on the way.
Boat care the family way
Robertson's Boatyard has been a staple in the Warkworth marine industry since 1932. Writer and avid sailor Alex Stone, along with his wife Lesley, make their regular and much-anticipated ritual with their sailing catamaran, Skyborne, during its annual maintenance haul-out at Robertson's Boatyard.
Join the revolution
When Amber Rose and Briar Rose crossed paths, their shared vision for humanity and the earth ignited a collaboration. Recognising the immense potential of regeneration, they have embarked on a mission to bring together the world leaders in this field.
On track for success -Brock Gilchrist
Toyota 86 Champion and Matakana resident, Brock Gilchrist, has been driving since he was four. Hoping to race next in Australia and move onto Porsches, he’d happily drive any race car, as long as he was getting paid to do it.
Retreat rescue to cover pup
Introducing our cover star, Murphy. He’s one very lucky pup after being rescued by Helen and Gavin
from Country Retreat Animal Sanctuary and finding his forever home with Jordan and Rob.
Flying solo
Back by popular demand, performing not just one night but two, Tiki Taane is at Leigh Sawmill this month, and due to his signature improv techniques, even he doesn’t know what to expect!