Focus magazine issue 19 by focus Magazine

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focus PUBLISHER Align Publishing (an n-Gon Group facet) EDITOR Dee Collins dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

Editor’s Welco me

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alex Spodyneiko ONLINE EDITOR Kseniia Spodyneiko kseniia@focusmagazine.co.nz SALES advertising@focusmagazine.co.nz COVER IMAGE Vanessa Laval-Glad Laval Photo & Video FEATURE WRITERS Millie Freeman Sandra Simpson PRINTING Sanyati Print CONTACT DETAILS 62 10th Avenue Tauranga 3110 (n-Gon Group Head Office) P O Box 14004, Tauranga, 3143 Tel: (07) 578 6838 Mobile: 021 535 770 focusmagazine.co.nz facebook.com/focusmagazinenz DISTRIBUTION 5,000 free copies are delivered bi-monthly to high traffic areas such as high-end cafés and restaurants, hairdressers, fashion boutiques, waiting rooms and professional offices across BOP, Hamilton, Cambridge and surrounding areas. DIGITAL focus is available to view online and is supported by social media sites including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. focus is a free magazine (subscriptions are available) and is published six times a year by Align Publishing (a facet of the n-Gon Group). focus is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights are reserved and reproduction in whole or in part, without the written consent of The Publisher (Align Publishing), is prohibited. Align Publishing and all its related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any person’s actions in reliance thereon. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information contained within this magazine and inclusion of any copy must not be taken as an endorsement by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication.

Image by Vanessa Laval-Glad Hair and Makeup by Sharyn Butters Outfit by Magazine Clothing

With gratitude,

Dee

Editor & Founder dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

focus fo cus focus LIFESTYLE AND BUSINESS ABOUT MAGAZINE. WOMEN. FOR WOMEN.

Bay of Plenty

and Waikato

ISS DECEMBERU E 1 4 2018 JANUARY 2019

ENVIRO

All material sent to focus (whether solicited or not) will not be returned unless otherwise agreed beforehand, and all rights, including copyright in such material will be assigned to Align Publishing upon receipt. The Publishers presume all letters and other material submitted to focus and related social media sites are intended for publication unless clearly labelled “not for publication”.

Festival. We also meet world-renowned social scientist Lynda Johnson who lives in Tauranga and is exploring the complex relationships between transgender, agender or non-binary people, and city spaces. As we celebrate three years in business, we send out a very big thank you to our loyal readers, supporters and advertisers – we wouldn’t be here without you. Enjoy our special celebration issue. Here’s to the next three years!

Drum roll please. We’re celebrating our third birthday! It seems like only yesterday that I launched the first edition of focus. As I sit here flicking through 18 past issues I’m reminded of all the beautiful, inspiring women we’ve met and featured over the years. It’s been such a pleasure to share their stories with you and I hope you’ve enjoyed reading the magazine as much as we’ve delighted in putting it together. focus is always evolving, and with each birthday we introduce brand new features and sections – there are loads more plans in the pipeline so watch this space! This month we shine a spotlight on breast cancer awareness and meet some fabulous women who have been through this challenging journey. One of those women is Debbie Clarke, who graces our cover and inspires us with her boundless positivity. We were blown away to learn that Debbie began learning to paint 3 YEA watercolours just three years ago and RS OF has since gone on to win several awards. We learn more about the Boobops who embrace the camaraderie of Dragon Boating, and chat to Jo Bond, Lee Murray and Karen McMillan who are all involved in the Tauranga Arts WOMEN

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focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | CONTENTS

CONTENTS

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER2019

32 COVER STORY

LIFE

DEBBIE CLARKE Award-winning artist shares her breast cancer journey

More than sport Meet the Boobops – Tauranga’s dragon boating team of breast cancer survivors

REGULARS 10

Ask the experts Flexibility in yoga and shower cleaning tips

Beauty Best products for your hair

Style Mix and match those shapes

Recipe Non-alcoholic cocktail by Seedlip

Giveaways It’s our birthday but you get the presents!

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Tauranga Arts Festival Jo Bond, Lee Murray and Karen McMillan

We NEED to talk Lynda Johnston – world-renowned social scientist

Hey, BMW! Taking the 3 Series to Waihi Beach

Magical Matakana Contemporary and artisan, this region is the ultimate holiday destination!

Helping you find your special home Deborah Peake of Tremains shares a touching story of one woman’s dream coming true

focus on

BOOKS | focus

BOOKS

Words DEE COLLINS

A NEARLY NORMAL FAMILY, M.T. EVARDSSON PERFORM UNDER PRESSURE, DR CERI EVANS

THE HIDING GAME, NAOMI WOOD

"Whatever it is you want to improve in your own life, this book will help you to do it." Richie McCaw, former All Blacks captain. In his first book, Dr Ceri Evans, forensic psychiatrist, Rhodes Scholar and former New Zealand footballer, shares the life-changing methods he uses with some of the world’s top performers. Targeting the times when you are most stressed and uncomfortable, Dr Evans’ RED-BLUE mind model aims to radically change the way we think under pressure and help us thrive in situations that may have been holding us back. The RED-BLUE tool is all about being comfortable being uncomfortable. Under pressure, do we give up or rise up?

Stella Sandell, an ordinary teenager from an upstanding family, is accused of the brutal murder of a man almost 15 years her senior. Told in three parts – one narrated by Stella’s father Adam, a pastor; one by Stella’s mother Ulrika, a lawyer; and the other by Stella herself – the story raises questions of how well you know your children and how far you would go to protect them. This is a well written yet unusual crime novel in which the truth slowly bubbles to the surface.

In 1922 Paul Beckermann arrives at the Bauhaus art school where he is captivated not only by his teachers but also his fellow students and the mesmerising Charlotte, who has other suitors vying for her love and attention. Paul becomes immersed in life with a group of friends and involved in the extremes and extravagances at the Bauhaus. Outlandish costume parties, haircuts and clothes, fasting, love affairs and an abundance of booze and cocaine are in stark contrast to the growing Nazi threat. Inevitably, the fate of Charlotte, a Jew, shatters everything. Paul blames others, but years later, and living in England, admits that he should have got Charlotte out of Germany before it was too late. A great weekend read about betrayal, revenge and love that sent me scurrying off to learn more about the Bauhaus. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | OUT & ABOUT

THE CELEBRATION PROJECT BY PARALYMPICS NEW ZEALAND Tauranga became the fourth among 12 New Zealand cities to host The Celebration Project – a community event acknowledging the 50-year history of New Zealand’s Paralympians. Among nine local athletes sharing their stories on stage at Pacific Toyota were Jim Savage and Rodney Wright – members of the first ever New Zealand Paralympian team, who represented our country in Tel-Aviv in 1968! Images MICHAEL BRADLEY/GETTY IMAGES 1. Paralympian Jim Savage with family 2. Paralympian Stacey Roche and Paralympic New Zealand Board member Jana Rangooni 3. Family of Paralympian Ross Hynds 4. Paralympian Lorraine Te Punga 5. Matt Cowley and Mayor Greg Brownless 6. Paralympians Rodney Wright and David MacCalman

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OUT & ABOUT | focus

WONDER WOMEN The Wonder Women events sponsored by Lyon O’Neale Arnold to raise money for The Cambodia Charitable Trust are always inspiring. Guests had the honour of meeting and listening to three women in uniform – Gillian Gates, an intensive care paramedic with the Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter; Karen Brown, who is training to become a detective after 20 years with the New Zealand Police; and Jenna Collings, the first woman in the Bay of Plenty to become an officer in charge with Fire and Emergency New Zealand. 1. Gillian Gates, Karen Brown and Jenna Collings 2. Crystal Trudel and Dee Collins 3. Grace and Hayley Nelson 4. Pauline Pipworth 5. Jenny Rudd and Denise Arnold

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | WHAT'S ON?

? N O S ' ER B M W H AET E V O N / R OCTOB

TAURANGA ARTS FESTIVAL 24 October-3 November taurangafestival.co.nz The Tauranga Arts Festival brings it all to your doorstep this month for a rollicking 10 days and nights. Enjoy circus cabaret (LIMBO), music (Nadia Reid, Tami Neilson, The Miltones), theatre (Cellfish, Wild Dogs Under My Skirt, Kaput), writing workshops and speakers to make you stop and think.

CORPORATE DRAGON BOAT REGATTA 2019 6 October Blue Lake, Rotorua bit.ly/RATL2019 Competitions are the best form of teambuilding, so sign up your colleagues for this dragon boat regatta in Rotorua. No previous experience is necessary – they’ll teach you everything you need to know. $500 per team of 13.

HOT PINK WALK 9 October Masonic Park, Tauranga breastcancerbop.org.nz The Hot Pink Walk to support Breast Cancer Tauranga Trust is back for a new round! Join the party wearing your best funky pink costumes and enjoy a friendly atmosphere, music and goodie bags. The event is dog-friendly and there’s even a Pink Pooch Parade for pets! Only $10 for adults and a gold coin for kids.

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WHAT'S ON? | focus

BAY OF PLENTY HOME SHOW 18-20 October Trustpower Baypark Arena, Mount Maunganui bayofplentyhomeshow.co.nz Over 200 exhibitors – from top of the line to budget conscious – are bringing you the best of living in the Bay. See New Zealand’s favourite free-range cook Annabel Langbein in the BespOak Live Cooking Theatre and don’t miss this year’s new ‘The Backyard’ section.

TAURANGA MOANA – A LOVE LETTER TO OCEANS 11 October Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, Hamilton chambermusic.co.nz This show is a great reminder of the beauty and importance of oceans to the planet. With music from New Zealand’s Warren Maxwell and Finland’s Jaakko Mäntyjärvi and moving images from multimedia artists Tim and Mic Gruchy, this is a spectacular audio-visual celebration of life.

TAURANGA FOOD, WINE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL 23 November Wharepai Domain, Tauranga taurangafwm.co.nz This new family-friendly event is bringing Kiwis together for a day of yummy food, great beverages and live music. Leave your car at home – special buses will be available.

WOMEN’S STREET SMART SELF-DEFENCE WORKSHOP 19-20 October The Gym, Tauranga selfdenfencecourses.co.nz Learn how to defend yourself from punches, wrist grabs and choke holds, and how to use your knees and elbows when avoidance and de-escalation aren’t working. All fitness levels are welcome – just bring a positive attitude, comfortable clothing and a water bottle! focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | ASK THE EXPERTS

ASK THE EXPERTS HOW DO I KEEP MY SHOWER GLASS SPARKLY?

KATIA GRODECKI 3118yoga.co.nz @3118yoga

DO I NEED TO BE FLEXIBLE TO PRACTISE YOGA? If you’re one of the many people who believe they would feel out of place in a room full of ex-Cirque du Soleil acrobats, rest assured, such visions do not match the reality of a typical yoga class. There’s a joke among yoga teachers that people claiming to not be flexible enough to practise yoga is the equivalent of saying that we shouldn’t shower because we’re not clean enough. In truth, the majority of people who come to my classes are interested in cultivating relaxation, letting go of stress, healing an injury, as well as developing strength and, yes, flexibility in a manner that’s gentle on the body. Everyone, regardless of age and ability, is able to practise yoga. You might not be able to comfortably touch your toes and, if that’s your concern, I invite you to soften your knees, relax your shoulders, and perhaps use a yoga block or two to bring the floor toward you. I believe that yoga is never about the shape of a pose but how we feel when we move into and out of the pose, as well as whether we’re able to stay relaxed and breathe smoothly throughout the class. It’s important to note that yoga is not only about developing flexibility. The typical dynamic yoga practice should offer equal parts cultivation of stability and mobility. I believe that perhaps one of the most pleasant surprises yoga offers us is that with consistent practice it not only makes us stronger and more supple physically, but also emotionally and mentally.

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I always emphasise that when it comes to cleaning showers, less is more. So many people go crazy with chemical sprays to try and remove stains and soap scum, when all you really need is dishwashing liquid in warm water and a soft cloth. Other products often do more harm than good. Rinsing down the glass and drying it with a soft cloth every day, after the last family member has showered, also helps to maintain your shower in great condition. If your shower glass requires a proper clean, or needs to be restored from the damage done by chemicals, seek professional help. At Pristine Shower Clean, I use nontoxic, eco-friendly EnduroShield products that make your shower look like new again. And, what’s even more important, EnduroShield makes your life so much easier by reducing further cleaning time by 90%! After the treatment, I’ll also give you a special care pack that will help you to protect the glass from harmful bacteria, soap scum, grime, salt and the corrosive effect of hard water for many years to come.

PENNY PRESTIDGE pristineshowerclean.co.nz 07 5444856

Good

focus | BEAUTY

hair day

WITH ALL THE BEAUTY NEWCOMERS THAT LAND ON OUR DESKS, ONLY A FEW MAKE IT TO THE PAGES OF THE MAG. THESE HAIR PRODUCTS REALLY DO THE JOB. EVERY DAY SHAMPOO, PLAYA $48 Our team is guilty of washing their hair every day, and discovering this coconut-derived shampoo at Mecca Maxima Bayfair was a real stroke of luck. Its clean, SLS-free formula preserves natural oils – something ‘every-day washers’ often lack. The sugar beet extract in the formula promotes volume and growth.

HEALI KIWI SHAMPOO, ETHIQUE $22 Created specifically for those who suffer from scalp problems, this solid bar shampoo is enriched with kiwifruit and coconut oils to prevent irritation. Calms an itchy scalp and leaves hair looking shiny and healthy for longer.

WONDERBAR CONDITIONER, ETHIQUE $25 Another must-have from New Zealand’s zero-waste sustainable brand. This wonderful coconut-scented bar doubles as

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an in-shower moisturiser and even a shaving bar! Almost half the size as Heali Kiwi but will last you a good five months.

RESTORE MASK TREATMENT, LIVING PROOF $74 In-shower masks are the best for deep nourishment! After applying this silicon-free and colour-safe gem for five minutes, hair becomes shiny, soft and smooth. Unless your hair is really damaged, it’s enough to use the mask once a week. Mecca Maxima Bayfair bestseller!

BB. COLOUR GLOSS, BUMBLE AND BUMBLE $58 Ever wondered why your hair never looks as glossy in real life as after a salon treatment? Maybe because you haven’t had this treatment before! It boosts and brightens hair colour to create that wonderful, healthy, ultra-dimensional shine that lasts up to three washes. 

Image by senivpetro / Freepik

BEAUTY | focus

SWEET DEAL THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO GET RID OF UNWANTED HAIR. BUT NOT MANY OF THEM HAVE BEEN AROUND SINCE 1900BC AND PERSONALLY APPROVED BY CLEOPATRA – THE PHARAOH OF EGYPT AND A WOMAN OF SURPASSING BEAUTY! WE’RE TALKING ABOUT SUGARING, OF COURSE.

ugaring is a treatment that removes body hair in the most natural way – using only your hands and a sticky paste made of sugar and lemon. No nasty stuff, no harmful bacteria and way less pain than waxing. Traditional wax strips often pull hair out in the opposite direction to a follicle’s growth pattern – ouch! Sugaring, in contrast, gently removes hair in its natural direction. The best thing about sugaring? You don’t have to wait for a month before the hairs are long enough for the next treatment – 0.5mm in length is all you need. Say ‘hello’ to a smooth and happy skin! Marcela learned all the secrets of this ancient treatment from her mum, back in Lebanon. She’s been sugaring her legs

since the age of 13 and says in her family, sugaring was always an excuse for a ‘girls’ night’ – they would sugar each other and chat for ages. No boys allowed! When the family moved to Brazil – the country of tiny bikinis and Brazilian waxes – her mum opened a beauty salon where Marcela worked beside her for 15 years. Marcela still preserves the traditions of a home-made, all-natural sugaring paste and enjoys friendly chats while working with clients. Try it yourself at The Sugaring Room in Tauranga CBD! From brows to legs, from armpits to Brazilians, The Sugaring Room covers all your needs. Just make sure you don’t exfoliate your skin before the procedure and don’t go to the hot pools or sauna for at least a day after. The rest is left to Marcela’s expertise! 

MARCELA HANNOUCHE Owner and advanced body sugaring technician at The Sugaring Room thesugaringroom.co @thesugaringroom

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | BEAUTY

DR ANUYA TO OPEN NEW COSMETIC

AND VEINS CLINIC IN TAURANGA

Unpacking new equipment and getting everything ready for the October opening

THIS MONTH SEES DR ANUYA DESHPANDE OPENING THE COSME TIC & VEINS CLINIC, OPPOSITE PROMED HOUSE ON 10TH AVENUE, TAURANGA. AFTER 18 MONTHS WORKING IN SEVERAL CLINIC S IN TAURANGA AND PAPAMOA, ANUYA SAYS SHE WILL BE DELIGHTED TO HAVE A PERMANENT BASE FOR HER COSME TIC MEDICAL AND VARICOSE VEINS TREATMENTS, AS WELL AS SOME BRAND NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART MEDICAL EQUIPMENT SHE RECENTLY PURCHASED.

ith over 14 years’ experience in cosmetic medicine Dr Anuya’s aim is to help her patients achieve safe, effective, long-term, natural results. She says she starts by getting people’s focus off their lines, wrinkles and lips, and seeing the whole person. “That first consultation is so important, and as a rule I don’t treat patients the first time I see them, for veins or cosmetic medicine. We discuss their issues and options, then put together a treatment plan to suit them. “Everything on a person’s face relates to everything else, so balance – which is different to symmetry – is vital. We look at a person as a whole, and can then reduce distracting features that may make them appear tired, angry or aged. There is also an emotional aspect to patients’ cosmetic concerns that I take time to understand.” Ongoing professional training is vital to Anuya and she seeks to gain mastery of as many techniques and products

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as possible in order to help her patients achieve their treatment plan goals. This month she flies to Korea to train alongside leading doctors, perfecting non-surgical facelifting techniques using threads, high intensity frequency ultrasound and injectables. During the previous 12 months she has attended conferences in Sydney, Queenstown, Auckland and Melbourne, and next year plans to study towards a Fellowship with the Australasian College of Phlebology (varicose vein treatments), which will qualify her to train other doctors in ultrasound-guided varicose vein treatments. Although she now has a permanent base in Tauranga, Anuya will continue to offer her Papamoa patients the option of cosmetic treatments at Porcelain Skin in Papamoa Plaza and varicose vein treatment at Bay Radiology in Fashion Island. 

focus | BEAUTY

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE EYEBROWS ARE YOUR EYEBROWS LOOKING, LET’S SAY, A LITTLE PATCHY AND THIN ON THE GROUND? IS YOUR MORNING ROUTINE OF APPLYING A PENCIL OR POMADE FILL-IN TAKING A LITTLE LONGER THAN USUAL? THERE’S NO DOUBT THAT EYEBROWS FRAME THE EYES AND THAT SCULPTED EYEBROWS CREATE A BEAUTIFUL FINISHED LOOK. So, what’s the solution? Microblading – a semi-permanent answer to fuller, natural-looking eyebrows – has taken the world by storm! In the interests of journalism, we sent focus editor Dee Collins off to Tali Reti of The Authentic Lab, to find out what microblading really feels like. Does it work and was she happy with the results? WHY DID YOU WANT YOUR EYEBROWS TATTOOED IN THE FIRST PLACE, DEE? When I went through chemo ten years ago I lost my eyebrows and they’ve never really grown back properly – chunks of hair were missing and they were so light in colour. I would spend ages tinting or drawing on eyebrows before I went out, so the opportunity to have eyebrows again spurred me into action. TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH TALI FROM THE AUTHENTIC LAB Tali’s friendliness and professionalism made me feel really comfortable from the get-go. We started off having a chat about my hopes and expectations before she applied numbing cream to my eyebrows. Then, using various tools, she began measuring and drawing up outlines on my face, taking into account shape, features and symmetry. I was happy that she didn’t use a template! She then set to work with the needling process using a single-use hand tool to make

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fine strokes to the brow to replicate hairs. She also added a medicalgrade pigment to colour the brow. The needles don’t penetrate the skin but just delicately scratch the surface – a bit like a paper cut. DID IT HURT? I admit I’m a bit of a wimp, so Tali applied a different numbing cream to my eyebrows half way through the process. I would say it’s more uncomfortable than sore. IS IT A ONE-OFF TREATMENT? The process is semi-permanent as the pigment isn’t applied too deeply into the skin and will gradually fade. Six weeks later I had a top-up session to fill any gaps. My new eyebrows will fade away if I don’t go back every 12-18 months. IS THERE AN AFTERCARE REGIMEN? Yes, definitely, and Tali provided all the aftercare knowledge that I needed. The main thing I had to do was apply an antiseptic cream – which you can purchase from her – initially several times a day. It does leave a bit of a greasy shine to your eyebrows but it’s worth doing. AND THE MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION – ARE YOU PLEASED WITH THE RESULTS? As I haven’t had eyebrows for so long, I must admit it took me a bit of time to get used to having them again but I’m ecstatic with the result and Tali will definitely have me as a customer for life from now on.

AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE AUTHENTIC LAB You’ll need to book at least 6-8 weeks out for Tali’s clinics in both Mount Maunganui and Hamilton. Apart from offering cosmetic tattooing and microblading, Tali also offers facial treatments using Beauty Tofu products. theauthenticlab.com Mention focus magazine and receive 20% off your first microblading appointment. Valid until 1 December 2019.

STYLE | focus

g n o l e b e W

r e h t e g o t

IS VOLUME ONE WAY TO GO AND SUPER-LEAN SHAPES THE OTHER? THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND MIX BOTH TOGETHER TO FORM ONE UTTERLY OF-THEMOMENT OUTFIT.

Jacquard Kimono Jacket KARL LAGERFELD $465.00

Workout Bare Minimum Cropped Top LORNA JANE $98.99

High Rise Booty Core Ankle Biter Tight LORNA JANE $127.99

Frida Shirt KETZ-KE BLACK $159.00

Mahinepua Bay Tote Bag TSJWEAR $45.00

Master Skort KETZ-KE $159.00 Skinny Trousers LIU JO $94.00

Sterling Silver ID Adjustable Chain Bar Bracelet PASCOES $79.00

Gingham Zip Turtleneck PROENZA SCHOULER $338.00

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focus | LIFE

THE BOOBOPS DRAGON BOATING TEAM FROM TAURANGA CONSISTS ENTIRELY OF BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS. THERE ARE EIGHT SUCH TEAMS IN NEW ZEALAND AND A BIG WORLDWIDE COMMUNITY. ONE OF BOOBOPS’ FIRST MEMBERS, JUDY PRUDEN, EXPLAINS HOW DRAGON BOATING CHANGES THE LIVES OF BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS. Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO

hen Judy Pruden walks into Grindz during a busy lunchtime, I know immediately it’s her. Fit, beautiful, with a spring in her step and a sparkle in her eye, she radiates confidence and happiness. Judy has been paddling with Boobops since the very first day of the team’s existence: “I saw an advert

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in the Weekend Sun. I had no idea what dragon boating was but had just recently had breast cancer, so decided to give it a go. It was unbelievable how many people turned up at the first meeting in June 2003! We could form two full teams straight away – one with breast cancer survivors and the other one of all-women supporters, known now as Bay Dragons.”

But a good turn out is one thing; getting the wheels spinning is a whole different task. At first, the Tauranga Boobops team didn’t even have any equipment! They sourced a big, old, heavy wooden boat from Auckland and had to sand it themselves. “We were so hopeless at first. We had no idea what we were doing!” laughs Judy. The first few races were a

LIFE | focus

disaster. “Our second-ever race was in Auckland and we were the only team of breast cancer survivors there. I remember lining up beside those guys with big muscles – professionals who competed all over the world – thinking, there is no way we can compete against them!” Boobops finished last that day. But what felt like a huge embarrassment for Judy, turned out to be a huge inspiration for the other teams. When the ‘guys with big muscles’ went on stage for their trophy, all they spoke about was how amazing the breast cancer team was; how wonderful it was that there were ladies who just got out there and gave this sport a go. The Boobops have always received a lot of support from the dragon boat community. Another touching moment Judy recalls is the traditional flower ceremony held at the end of the races to honour the memory of those who didn’t make it through breast cancer. A team member usually makes a speech and they all sing a song, and then let the flowers float. The other teams and the spectators always join the breast cancer survivors for the ceremony. “It’s so beautiful and emotional! I see a lot of tears. Almost everyone has someone in their family who has been through breast cancer and they are all there to support us.” Judy’s voice becomes a bit shaky and she masks it with a sip of decaf mocha. But it’s support within the team that each member values the most. “When you’re first diagnosed, it consumes your whole life. Like having an elephant in the room – it’s all you see, all you talk about,” says Judy. “Dragon boating shrinks that elephant. Suddenly you’ve got something else in your life!” Team members quickly become best friends. Not only do they all drink coffee and chat at The Raft after training on Saturdays but they are also there for each other for every moment of their life: picking up kids from school, cooking soup if someone gets sick, or going to medical appointments together – that’s what life with the Boobops team looks like. “We have people from Matamata, from Waihi Beach,

all driving to Tauranga three times per week to train. That’s how devoted people are!” Not surprisingly with this level of support and camaraderie, the Tauranga breast cancer survivors soon became a very successful team and have won a number of awards in New Zealand. But it’s the international experience that inspires them the most. Last year Boobops participated in the IBCPC Dragon Boat Festival – a huge gathering of 2,500 breast cancer survivors from all over the world in Florence, Italy. “There were people of different fitness levels there. Some were still so weak, they were literally dragged to their boats. When you’re paddling down the river in Florence, it’s not about winning, it’s all about being there, supporting each other and being proud of what we’ve all achieved. Though, I should mention that we made it to the semi-finals and even made faster time than a team in one of the finals!” This festival happens every four years and New Zealand will be the country to host this event next. When I mention that age might stop some people from joining the team (70% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand are in their 50s or older), Judy laughs: “The average age of our team at the nationals in Karapiro this April was 63½! And the oldest member of Boobops only stopped paddling when she was about 82. She’s now in her 90s and we’ve named one of our boats after her – Bernadette. ‘Too old’ is not an excuse. Just like ‘not fit enough’. We have people with hip replacements or knee replacements and they are all doing a brilliant job.” Newcomers usually start slow and use paddles with holes drilled in them – this way you can learn the technique without putting too much power in your actions. Team members will help you build up your fitness levels step by step. “It’s so good for your health,” says Judy. “I’m a radiographer and I see it every day – those who exercise regularly, do well. If you want to enjoy your old age, you need to keep exercising!” 

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COVER STORY | focus

Words: Millie Freeman Images: Vanessa Laval-Glad Hair & makeup: Sita Engling Clothes: Augustine & Debbie's own

DEBBIE CLARKE taking charge of health and wellbeing DEBBIE CLARKE IS AN AWARD-WINNING ARTIST, CO-OWNER OF LANDMARK HOMES NZ WITH HUSBAND PAUL, AND PRESIDENT OF THE TAURANGA ARTS SOCIETY. AT 61, SHE’S FIT, HEALTHY AND CONTINUOUSLY ON THE GO WITH WORK AND FAMILY COMMITMENTS, AND COMMUNITY AND CREATIVE PROJECTS. SHE’S BUSY AND LOVES IT THAT WAY. NEEDLESS TO SAY, SHE’S ALSO A STRONG BELIEVER IN TAKING CHARGE OF HER OWN WELLBEING, HOWEVER NINE YEARS AGO, AT A ROUTINE BREAST ULTRASOUND APPOINTMENT, HER SURVIVAL LAY IN THE HANDS OF SOMEONE ELSE ENTIRELY.

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focus | COVER STORY

A radiologist was concerned about a slight distortion of tissue and organised an immediate mammogram. The scan showed nothing unusual, however, unconvinced, the radiologist asked Debbie to stay for a biopsy. Already late for a meeting, Debbie said she’d make an appointment later and hurried off. “I got two blocks down the road and thought ‘silly girl’ and went back for the biopsy. My doctor called a few days later to say I had breast cancer. I couldn’t believe it because by then I’d dismissed it, thinking the mammogram was clear. After my surgery I went back and saw the radiologist and said ‘I owe you my life’.” Debbie was diagnosed with invasive lobular cancer* in her left breast, and the recommended treatment plan to remove the 6mm tumour involved a lumpectomy, followed by radiotherapy. Grateful to also be offered a choice of other treatment options, Debbie nonetheless spent the weekend considering her situation, and by Monday felt strongly about her treatment plan – a double mastectomy and TRAM reconstruction. “It was massive surgery and from the specialist’s perspective was like killing an ant with a sledgehammer!” But Debbie was resolute. Despite diagnostic tests showing nothing untoward in her other breast, she was mindful of her family history, given two maternal aunts and two cousins had had breast cancer. An MRI was arranged to get a more definitive diagnosis of both breasts. “The MRI result was ugly and showed widespread abnormal cells in my left breast,” she says. They weren’t necessarily cancer cells, but now it was obvious that a mastectomy was a better choice, and the specialist agreed to the double even though the other breast looked fine.

LONG ROAD AHEAD In October 2010, Debbie had a bi-lateral mastectomy with TRAM reconstruction and sentinel node biopsy – an eight-hour surgery requiring two surgical teams. The three nodes were found to have cancer and three weeks later she had all lymph nodes removed in her left armpit – they were clear bar five cells in one node. However histology of the removed breast tissue painted a lessthan-pretty picture: two tumours measuring 60mm and 22mm, two other measurable tumours, and the tissue in between “wasn’t too flash either”. It was stage 3 invasive cancer and she says the doctors became “quite grim” about her prognosis. Her right breast showed no cancer although there were definite signs of cell change. Her extensive recovery period saw her bent over

* Only around 10 per cent of invasive breast cancer cases are invasive lobular carcinomas, compared to the more common ductal carcinomas. In the early stages, invasive lobular carcinoma may cause no signs or symptoms; in fact it is less likely than other forms of breast cancer to cause a distinct breast lump. Lobular breast cancer is also less likely to be detected on a mammogram than other types of breast cancer,

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for several weeks because of the breast reconstruction surgery and having to use a walking frame. Further surgeries were required to fix recurring problems with the belly mesh inserted as part of the TRAM procedure. As well, six months of chemotherapy began just before Christmas. “Chemo was tough. I managed quite well with the nausea but chemo affects everything, like your skin and taste. And the brain fog – I’ve always been a multitasking person but you can’t do that or do anything fast. It’s like your whole world narrows down to one thing and you have to really concentrate to do it.” A few years before the diagnosis and surgery Debbie and Paul had turned their 40-year old company, Landmark Homes, into a franchise business format and today have 15 franchises around the country. They run the national office from Tauranga, providing franchisees with systems, marketing and day-to-day support. Debbie continued to work full time as much as possible during her chemo treatment and says having a specific project gave her a purpose and something to focus on. “It definitely helped me get out of bed every morning and pretend to be half normal!” she says.

DRIVEN TO LEARN Having always had an interest in alternative medicine, she also began reading to find out more about wellness from another perspective. “I’ve always had the attitude of needing to take responsibility for my own health and wellbeing, and I became even more determined since my diagnosis. At first I was indignant – why had this happened to me? But I was driven to find out why, and what I could do to stay well. Irrespective of what diagnosis I had, I was going to live; I was going to win the fight – that’s how I reacted to it.” For the next five years, Debbie, a former nurse, devoured hundreds of books, papers and studies to understand what practical steps she could take to maintain her health. Now she attributes a large part of her ongoing health and wellbeing to what she found on the internet during those years. “Cancer only grows when conditions allow it so I learnt about the importance of changing the environment in my body. Iodine and selenium, for example, are elements New Zealanders don’t get enough of yet both are vitally important to protect against cancer. I’m convinced all women should be taking them and it drives me nuts how hard it is to find out about these things and get hold of supplements.” Debbie diligently took a range of supplements,

however mammograms are still very important diagnostic tests. Your doctor or specialist can tell you more about diagnostic testing and what is best for you. mayoclinic.org medicalnewstoday.com

COVER STORY | focus

including Vitamin C, Iscador preparations, Graviola and Essiac Tea, and adapted to a more alkaline diet by eating less meat and sugar and no refined oils. Everything she learnt was readily available online, and she highly recommends the not-for-profit website, www.breastcancerchoices. org, for information on breast cancer research projects, supplements and how to ‘clean up your life’.

NEW CREATIVE CAREER While she continues to take a number of key nutritional supplements and is conscious about her food choices, she has “calmed the farm” on her programme of supplementation. And after five years of reading, Debbie also lightened up on her stack of books, creating space in her life for a new adventure. In 2015 she went to a painting demonstration by local watercolour artist Jenny Coker, not realising that everyone would be picking up a brush and having a go. Debbie had never painted anything in her life! “Well, it lit a fire in me; I was so excited I couldn’t believe it,” she says. “I’ve always loved natural form and wanted to paint massive flowers, so I bought some training DVDs from Susan Harrison Tustain, whose artwork I have always admired, and then discovered Birgit O’Connor who runs an internet art school from California – I’d even get up at 3am to take part in her live-streamed classes.” Debbie joined the Tauranga Society of Artists knowing that her husband’s grandmother was a founding member of the group in the 1950s when it was called the Tauranga Sketch Club. She’s delighted to have that earlier connection with the Society, and as the current president, feels this is her time to give back to the “group of wonderful artists”, and indeed the local community at large who had once supported her. “During my cancer treatment I received such amazing support from my family and friends and was overwhelmed by people’s kindness. I received letters and cards in the

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focus | COVER STORY

mail, meals arrived on the kitchen bench and my sister-in-law came to every chemo session with me. And the incredible generosity of the women who volunteer for the Look Good Feel Better programme – there were so many special things and special people and it was a truly humbling time. “Having cancer made me even more passionate about taking charge of my own health and I encourage others to question everything. Feel comfortable that you are making a decision because it’s the best thing for you, not just because you’re told to do it. Although chemo made me feel wretched, I did it because I believed it was the thing I needed to do to contribute to my long-term health. Nobody ever gave me signoff to say I’m fixed; it’s up to me to be responsible for my own life.” As well as taking charge of herself

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physically – including several walks up the Mount each week – mental health is also part of the equation. She’s gradually cut down her workload to one day per week to give her more time to look after her grandchildren, see her friends and, of course, to work on her new-found artistic career. With several art awards already to her name in just three years – including the Society’s Supreme Award this year and in 2017 – that new career is shaping up to be a long and successful one. “The Society is a great welcoming group of artists of varying experience and style,” says Debbie. “I’ve had so many opportunities to learn and participate in different workshops and I encourage anyone vaguely interested to come along and see if it’s for them.” 

CREATIVITY | focus

Author draws inspiration from own book during cancer treatment WHEN AUTHOR KAREN MCMILLAN WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER IN 2011, SHE TURNED TO ONE OF THE BOOKS SHE HAD WRITTEN, UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT , TO HELP HER THROUGH THE TREATMENTS.

“This book has personal stories about cancer from a range of people, and I took a lot from the experiences of Ainslie, who was so positive when facing cancer,” says Karen. “I employed many of her strategies when going through my treatments. It was an eyeopener; the book was so helpful in my own cancer battle.” Since recovering from cancer, Karen has had success with her writing career, with 15 books now published in nine countries. Her cancer battle also inspired the book, Everyday Strength: Recipes and Wellbeing Tips for Cancer Patients, co-authored with chef Sam Mannering. “I had an idea about a book with nourishing recipes and wellbeing tips that are suitable for when going through cancer treatments,” says Karen. “From that idea, I got medical experts on board, and the book became a reality. It won’t cure cancer, but it’s packed with practical, everyday things you can do to make each day a little brighter during this difficult time.” Karen has written several bestselling novels, and her latest is Brushstrokes of Memory. It’s a love story

about a woman who has lost almost ten years of her memory, and one of the first things she discovers is that she has had breast cancer. “I drew on the occasional diary I kept through my treatments and created a thread about her cancer treatments that runs through the novel,” says Karen. “Using fiction in this way allowed me to explore the dynamics of cancer in a different way.” Surprisingly, Karen views having had cancer as a positive turning point in her life. “It is terrible discovering you have cancer, but I caught my cancer early, and all the treatments went well, and I’m now eight years clear. I feel very blessed. While I was going through my treatments, I felt cocooned by love, and I can testify that life post-treatment is sweeter than before. I’m more creative too, and I’ve been fortunate that my books have been so well received, and life has been such a wonderful adventure since my recovery.” Karen will be speaking at the Tauranga Arts Festival, promoting her new series for children, Elastic Island Adventures. karenm.co.nz  focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | CREATIVITY

LEE MURRAY ALL STORIES EXIST FOR A REASON

LEE MURRAY IS NEW ZEALAND’S MOST AWARDED SCIENCE FICTION, FANTASY AND HORROR WRITER AND IS THE ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD TO BE A TWO-TIME FINALIST FOR HORROR WRITING’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARD. LEE MURRAY IS ALSO OFTEN ANXIOUS AND DEPRESSED.

Words + Image SANDRA SIMPSON 28 | focusmagazine.co.nz

“I was diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression when I was 50,” the Welcome Bay resident and mother of two says, “but I’ve had it all my life. I wasn’t sure about going public but there’s not a day goes by without someone approaching me because they’re affected too. You can’t always tell from someone’s demeanour what their mental health is like.” She proposed a panel discussion for last year’s StokerCon (Convention) in the United States about “writing from a dark place”, covering authors past and present, which proved a success. “The Horror Writers Association was so impressed it picked up the idea and ran a month-long blog campaign for US Mental Health Awareness month.” Lee contributed to the blog in an online discussion with a UK mental health professional and dark fiction writer, while the StokerCon theme became an essay for the 2018 collection, Headlands: New Stories of Anxiety (Victoria University Press). A full-time writer for more than 10 years, Lee finds the process of funding applications (37 so far, none successful) and hawking manuscripts to mainstream publishers (none successful) exhausting.

“I’m a writer and editor – I don’t consider myself a marketer or a publisher. That’s a huge undertaking. But how many times can you crawl up after another rejection and continue? “In more than 10 years of writing full time I’ve yet to make one year of full-time wages. I only manage because my husband essentially sponsors my work. New Zealand voices are being lost because people can’t afford to keep going.” A former research scientist, Lee says that training informs her writing. “I tend to go for dark speculative fiction – the ‘what if’ scenarios – because it allows me to wrestle with major themes. I can explore political, social, human and environmental themes in a scientific way with a cloaking of narrative. “I love using cultural myths and legends as part of the telling. All stories exist for a reason.” Lee Murray appears on the Headlands panel at the Tauranga Arts Festival, Saturday, November 2, 1.30pm in the Carrus Crystal Palace (Baycourt lawn). See the full programme at taurangafestival.co.nz. Tickets available at the Baycourt box office or via the festival website. 

JO BOND

DIRECTING THE TAURANGA ARTS FESTIVAL A CHANCE ENCOUNTER IN NEW PLYMOUTH WITH A FRIEND OF A FRIEND SET JO BOND ON A CAREER CHANGE WHICH HAS LED TO HER DIRECTING FOUR TAURANGA ARTS FESTIVALS - THE FIRST WOMAN TO HOLD THE POST. Words + Image SANDRA SIMPSON

er conversation with then festival director Roger King led to Jo, who had recently moved back to Tauranga with her partner, artist Graham Crow, working part time on the 2003 festival. “I basically found and opened an office here and kept things ticking over.” Under the next director, Philip Tremewan, Jo found her role steadily increasing – she became general manager in 2011 before taking on the top job in 2013. “The best part is seeing all the performances, meeting the people who make the work and being involved in the evolution of the work,” Jo says. “Daffodils is a prime example – it premiered in Auckland and was picked up by several regional festivals. It was honed and perfected until it went to the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. And this year a successful movie was released.” One of the hardest aspects, she says, is juggling the budget against her wish-list of shows. In 2019 funding has come from about 30 sources and includes in-kind sponsorship. “We’re extremely grateful to our funders and sponsors,” Jo says, “but Tauranga is a city of small businesses and there’s not always strong support for the performing arts. “The optimist in me says that with younger people relocating to Tauranga from overseas, so too will come their norm of a culture where the performing arts are accessible and affordable.”

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She’s proud the festival has become part of the local calendar – all done with a total staff of four part-timers, a volunteer trust board of seven and an army of volunteers. “I love the camaraderie of the team as we work under intense pressure.” Jo travels extensively as part of her job, regularly visiting festivals in Edinburgh, Shanghai and Australia and has also been to London, Ireland and Avignon (France). “It sounds like the perfect life and in many ways it is,” Jo says, “but it’s pretty exhausting too as I’m usually seeing multiple shows every day at a festival. In and out, in and out. “But this position couldn’t be bettered in terms of job satisfaction.” The Tauranga Arts Festival runs from 24 October–3 November. Tickets can be purchased from the Baycourt box office or via the festival website taurangafestival.co.nz. 

More than 500,000 people (including schoolchildren) have been to a Tauranga Arts Festival event since 1999, with just over 47,000 attending events in 2017. Surveys reveal that of the 14% who come from out of town, the majority (83%) come especially for the festival.

Jo Bond (left) and Kimberley Cleland, the festival’s general manager

focus | CREATIVITY

FAMILY | focus

SEE A LAWYER WHEN YOUR PARTNER PASSES AWAY

he only certainty in life is death. But what happens to your shared belongings when your partner or spouse dies? Stephanie Northey from The Law Shop explains that most estates are administered under the terms of the person’s Will. Either way, it is essential to get legal advice as soon as possible if your partner passes away. “The Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (PRA) deals with how the property of married couples, civil union and de facto partners is divided when a relationship ends. The Act covers the division of property after a break-up, but it also covers relationships ending because of the death of a spouse or partner. For practical reasons, death is treated the same as a separation under the PRA,” Stephanie says. Basically, when your spouse or partner dies, you need to make a decision between your entitlements under their Will and potential claims against their estate. The surviving spouse must choose either:

Option A – which means to make an application to the court under the PRA for a division of relationship property, or Option B – to elect not to make an application but to accept the provision made for them under their deceased partner or spouse’s Will. “This is a hugely important choice, and there are strict timelines to adhere to. If an estate is distributed, it cannot be undone. It all depends on your situation, so go see a lawyer soon after the death of a spouse or partner,” Stephanie says. It’s best to be prepared for any situation, and the friendly team at The Law Shop is here to help. You’ll find their Rotorua office on Arawa Street, but in Tauranga they now work from a virtual office. If you’d like to know more about The Law Shop’s legal services or have any questions or concerns, call them on 0800 LAW SHOP.

focus | LIFE

WE NEED TO TALK! LYNDA JOHNSTON MOVED TO TAURANGA IN JANUARY 2019. WHAT ATTRACTED THIS WORLDRENOWNED SOCIAL SCIENTIST, PRESIDENT OF THE NEW ZEALAND GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY AND CHAIR OF A GENDER AND GEOGRAPHY COMMISSION AT THE INTERNATIONAL GEOGRAPHICAL UNION TO OUR TOWN? FOCUS FINDS OUT. Words + Images KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO

WHY TAURANGA? The fastest-growing city in New Zealand is a very interesting place to live in. For many years people came here to retire; nowadays Kiwis come for business and lifestyle. More and more people from different cultures and ethnic groups have also arrived. So, it’s a really interesting mix of an older generation and a younger – surfing and having fun – crowd, and people building new lives here. I think this mix of people may work to the region’s favour. TAURANGA DOES INDEED HAVE A STRONG ‘BEACH’ IDENTITY. ONLY, I THINK, IT HAS CHANGED FROM A ‘BEACH VILLAGE’ WHERE AUCKLANDERS USED TO COME AND SPEND CHRISTMAS, INTO A VERY ACTIVE ENTREPRENEURIAL COMMUNITY WITH A FOCUS ON HEALTH AND WELLBEING. You’re right, coastal communities all around the world demonstrate this huge interest towards the wellness

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industry. Take LA in the US or Byron Bay in Australia. Tauranga is no exception. So many people here walk up The Mount every morning and spend days at the beach – a great business mind will quickly identify the demand in activewear, healthy food stores and other wellness organisations. Hence a lot of start-ups and entrepreneurs! But we also have to be mindful of people who are not able to easily access these businesses, like those on lower incomes. How can we make our city a great space for everyone? It’s up to us – you and me, businesses, institutions and NGOs – to create an inclusive vibrant community. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BEST WAY TO DO THAT? Only an ongoing conversation between the different groups and communities can create vibrant and inclusive cities. There is poverty and there are very wealthy people here. We don’t want that gap to grow any further. We’re

now coming up to elections and I hope citizens will vote with a mind on the future of Tauranga. We need a sustainable and prosperous Tauranga region. ARE YOU SAYING A STRONG LEADER IS WHAT WE NEED TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO BE MORE TOLERANT AND UNDERSTANDING? A lot depends on the people in power. It was very telling when we saw Jacinda Ardern during those horrible days in Christchurch and her continual message around care and inclusivity resonated with a lot of people. If we care about people, we’re more likely to become an inclusive society. Transformational leadership that promotes diversity and care is more likely to build strong and cohesive communities. I KNOW THAT YOU WORK WITH GOVERNMENT BUT I BET YOU CAN’T JUST ORDER OUR LEADERS TO DO

LIFE | focus

THIS OR THAT? Indeed. But what we can do as academics, and with organisations such as the New Zealand Geographic Society, is put submissions to a Government around different issues. For example, next week I’m flying to Wellington to help launch the research on spaces of belonging and disabilities to Ministers. I‘ve been working on this project with the University of Waikato, Imagine Better and DPA (Disabled Persons Assembly). This research covers five key things: creating more inclusive disability spaces, attending schools as a disabled person, workspaces for the disabled, the challenges of public encounters and, finally, dating and relationships. We hope when the Ministers review existing policies in these areas our research will help them to make the right choices. We’re also working on a review of geography as it is taught at schools. There are special standards for each secondary-school subject and we can have an impact on how students learn geography. Social and cultural characteristics of places, for example, are dynamic and shaped by relations between people, economic activities, and cultural conventions. WHAT WAS GEOGRAPHY LIKE WHEN YOU WERE AT SCHOOL? Oh, it was my favourite subject! Our teacher didn’t stick to the curriculum. It was back then when I realised how important interactions are between people and places. At university, I was able to match my deep interest and understanding of people and community with places. That’s what social and cultural geography is. I personally specialise in feminist and queer geography, so I get more specific about gender and sexual identities in different places – from micro-spaces, like a café, to a whole country. AND YOU’VE WRITTEN A BOOK ABOUT THIS, HAVEN’T YOU? Yes! Transforming Gender, Sex, and Place is a result of many years of research which started with my master's thesis on women bodybuilders. Later, I interviewed people in Aotearoa and the US about their gender identity. The book is divided into spaces – from bodies, bathrooms and homes to spaces of activism, workspaces, cities and nations. I’m exploring the complex relationships between transgender, agender or non-binary people and these spaces. DO YOU FIND IT EASY TO TALK ABOUT THIS TOPIC IN NEW ZEALAND? It depends on where you are. In smaller settlements, people still prefer to avoid talking about being genderqueer or transgender. I’ve spent a long time in Hamilton and this city has been quite conservative. In fact it wasn’t until 2007 that we put out a call to a local Hamilton rainbow community to organise a festival here. Many people avoid discussing aspects of gender and sexuality because of cultural taboos or religious backgrounds. But what people really need to understand is that there is gender variance in all societies, all across the world, and it’s important to accept not only the environment you’re growing up in but also who you are as a person. It’s especially important for our younger people – they need to know it’s ok to be who they are and that there are always people ready to support and talk about what they’re going through.  focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | CARS

HEY, BMW! 2019 IS A BIG YEAR FOR BMW WITH AT LEAST SEVEN MODELS BEING LAUNCHED ONE AFTER ANOTHER. ON A SUNNY WINTER’S DAY, WE TOOK THE NEW 3 SERIES ON A LEISURELY DRIVE TO WAIHI BEACH.

Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO Images VANESSA LAVAL-GLAD 34 | focusmagazine.co.nz

CARS | focus

ur BMW 330i M Sport is already the seventh generation of the 3 Series. It comes with the M Sport Package that, along with a bigger grille, extended LED headlights and a shiny Black Sapphire colour, visually transforms this sedan into a sleek-looking sports car. The new car is 8cm longer than earlier models in the series, allowing more boot space and more leg room for passengers in the back. While the four of us take turns driving, we soon find ourselves fighting for the privileged back-seat positions with their own climate control, large armrest with two cup holders, two USB-chargers and a 12v socket – pretty much an office on wheels! In typical ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ style, the car is jam-packed with next-generation technologies: wireless smartphone charger, USB-C sockets and head-up display. Of course, the 3 Series also nudges the car back between lanes when we veer too far left or right, automatically opens up the boot when we wave our foot under the rear bumper (grocery shopping must-have) and even kindly turns on 3D views of the car and surrounds to help us park in the tricky horseshoe-shaped driveway at the French Country House. These are things we’ve seen before, but now they’ve become even more intuitive and accurate. What we’re really looking for are new, revolutionary upgrades! And the first one wasn’t slow in making itself useful. When we realise no one knows the exact address of our destination, we ask BMW to find it: ‘Hey, BMW’. ‘Hello! What can I help you with?’ replies the car in a soft female voice. That’s the new Intelligent Personal Assistant – the main source of pride of the Munich car manufacturer. This system recognises natural human speech, which means instead of awkward commands like ‘Phone call, Mother’, you can now simply say ‘Hey, BMW! I want to call my mum’ and the car will find the contact. The car’s IPA turned out to be really smart and understanding, and way less rebellious than iPhone’s Siri, which seems to do everything it

can to annoy you to death! The keyless entry is our favourite new feature – it unlocks the car with a simple touch of a smartphone! You’ll need an Android phone and a BMW ConnectedDrive app, but this is a great app – among other things, it allows you to warm up the car from a distance. Winters just got a little easier to survive. Another must-have for every woman – and, let’s face it, man as well – is the incredible new Reversing Assistant. It memorises your manoeuvres to get you out of a narrow driveway or parking lot the same way you got in. We must admit, seeing the steering wheel rotating by itself takes some getting used to but we’re living in the era of things our human brain is no longer able to comprehend, so hands off the wheel and let the car do its job! ‘The most fun update of the year’ award no doubt goes to the gesture control. Forget touchscreens, forget BMW’s iconic iDrive control knob – you can now switch the songs from your Spotify playlist by pointing your thumb to the right or left in front of the cockpit! Gesture control also allows the driver and the front passenger to turn the volume up or down, accept or decline a phone call and even change the rearview camera angle, which looks like you’re trying to pinch the image of the car without even touching the screen. We’re telling you, it’s fun! The benchmark in its class, the 3 Series has always been an ‘entry pass’ to the alluring BMW world due to its fairly affordable price. The prices for the 2019 generation start from $77,500 for the 320d and $89,900 for the 330i. They’re more expensive than the previous generation but the new cars all come equipped with the M Sport Package and are stuffed to the brim with helpful technologies that would cost a lot more if you purchase them separately.  Coombes Johnston BMW Tauranga coombesjohnstonbmwtauranga.co.nz focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | PROMOTION

Zoi Sadowski-Synnott. Expandasign's range of custom-made outdoor event signage products provide a vehicle for sponsors to advertise their brand, wherever the event may be.

SIGNAGE YOUR CUSTOMERS CAN'T MISS FROM ITS INCEPTION IN 2009, WINTER GAMES NZ – NOW CALLED THE QRC WINTER GAMES NZ FUELLED BY FORSYTH BARR – HAS HAD WOMEN AT ITS HEART – FROM THE PREDOMINANTLY FEMALE ORGANISING TEAM, WHICH STILL EXISTS TODAY, THROUGH TO THE ETHOS THAT WOMEN SHOULD BE, AND HAVE BEEN, PAID EQUAL PRIZE MONEY. THE FOUNDERS AND BOARD OF THE GAMES VALUE INCLUSION AND WERE EARLY ADOPTERS OF EQUAL RIGHTS WITHIN SPORT. Images RED BULL NZ 36 | focusmagazine.co.nz

PROMOTION | focus

xpandasign NZ has been the exclusive signage partner for the event for the past few years, and is proud to support local sports people to compete on the national and International stage. The shining star of the kiwi snow-sports world is snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, and it is no surprise that she has been an ambassador of the Games for the past two years. The Wanaka teenager, aged 18, achieved the allusive triple crown in 2018, claiming the World Championship in women's Snowboard Slopestyle, a gold and a silver medal at the X Games and a US Open snowboard title. The in-demand young athlete competed again at this year's Winter Games in the FIS Snowboard World Cup Big Air presented by Cardrona Alpine Resort but was denied a chance at a podium finish when a safety call, due to wind speeds, was made to cancel the women's final and take results from the qualifying day. But what exactly is the Winter Games NZ and why is it so important to our kiwi athletes on their way to the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games? The Winter Games NZ is a unique and worldclass winter sports event held annually in August and September, in Queenstown, Wanaka and Naseby. This year the team celebrated 10 years of excellence hosting this elite international event, which is said to be the premier winter sports event in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing 26 snow and ice events at six venues over 17 action-packed days. The Games are a thrill-seeking event highlighting the best New Zealand has to offer. It is therefore paramount to the organisers to work with top-tier sponsors and suppliers. Expandasign's commitment to providing quality, innovative signage solutions to sponsors has assured its role as the event's official signage supplier for the last three years. Planning for this year’s Games went without a hitch, thanks to exceptional project management from Expandasign's Andrew Burnett. With owner Jayden Dickinson they have been pivotal in developing some of the innovative branding solutions that have featured in past years, such as the iconic Air New Zealand koru that was incorporated into the event course, and the huge starting gate on the slopes at Cardrona. Let's jump into some of the highlights from this year's competition. The world’s best competed in freestyle skiing and snowboarding World Cups at the internationally acclaimed venue of Cardrona Alpine Resort. The centrepiece of the Games

was the FIS World Cup Snowboard Big Air and FIS World Cup Freestyle Ski Halfpipe, as well as Freeski and Snowboard Halfpipe and Slopestyle FIS Australia New Zealand Cups (ANCs). The Winter Games NZ attracted six out of the world’s top 10 athletes in each of the World Cup disciplines and had a talented field of internationals for the ANC competitions. The FIS Snowboard World Cup Big Air final was another popular event. Hearts were racing as spectators watched the boarders hit the massive Cardrona World Cup Big Air jump and bring their A-game to NZ. The action was awesome. Both World Cup finals were held on weekends to allow fans to venture up and see their heroes laying down some epic runs on the world class Cardrona Park and Pipe features. The North Face Frontier was the Freeride event – and FreerideWorld Tour qualifier – within the Winter Games NZ calendar, held at The Remarkables. The aim for these talented skiers and snowboarders was to ride from the top to the bottom of the natural (ungroomed) face with as much fluidity, style and speed as possible while performing tricks on the natural features, like rock drops and cornices. The two events were spectacular to watch and triggered that heart-in-your-mouth feeling as competitors launched off the top. Coronet Peak, the traditional home of alpine ski racing, was where the Winter Games NZ party got started, with the dramatic Night Parallel Slalom kicking the Games off in style. Staged under floodlights, and featuring top skiers from New Zealand and around the world, the music was pumping for the exciting racing and night-ski party atmosphere. It was a great opportunity to bring family and friends up for a free party. Coronet Peak also hosted the exhilarating alpine ski racing programme with FIS Australia New Zealand Cups in Giant Slalom, Slalom and Super G alongside a Para Super G. The breathtaking Super G was held on the Hurdle, taking pride of place in the heart of the mountain and was a must-watch event. Cardrona Alpine Resort, the home of the New Zealand Ski and Snowboard Adaptive Team, hosted a Para Alpine Slalom and Giant Slalom in the second week of the Games. New Zealand’s best para athletes were on show and pitted themselves against a strong international line-up. The world-class international Mixed Doubles Curling tournament, presented by Forsyth Barr, was held at the Maniototo International Curling

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focus | PROMOTION

Signage by Expandasign NZ

Rink in Naseby. Elite teams competed in a fiveday tournament with the top four teams from pool play progressing into the semi-finals and subsequent finals. Always exciting to watch, each match lasted around 90 minutes and during pool play four sheets (rinks) operated simultaneously providing continuous entertainment for the spectators. Everyone loved the warm Naseby welcome and the classic kiwi feeling you come away with from the Central Otago town – an event that will be remembered fondly. The FIS ANC cross-country events, also presented by Forsyth Barr, took place at the iconic Snow Farm NZ with a Classic Sprint, Interval Start and Mass Start held over three days. The picturesque Snow Farm provided a beautiful backdrop for this endurance sport, and the best part was renting gear and having a go yourself, creating an epic day out in this winter wonderland. To see more shots and results from this awesome winter sports event visit wintergamesnz. kiwi It's well worth putting the fantastic QRC Winter Games NZ fuelled by Forsyth Barr in your diary for next year. If you have an event coming up, or would like

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advice on how to raise the profile of your event by offering quality brand activation solutions to top-tier sponsors, then make sure to contact Expandasign NZ. 

expandasign.co.nz 0508 BANNERS andrew@expandasign.co.nz

PROMOTION | focus

Signage by Expandasign NZ

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focus | TRAVEL

Magical

Matakana

MATAKANA ISLAND IS VISIBLE FROM TAURANGA, WHILE MATAKANA IS A 55-MINUTE DRIVE NORTH OF THE AUCKLAND HARBOUR BRIDGE. THIS REGION HAS BLOSSOMED INTO A WEALTH OF VINEYARDS, WINERIES, ART GALLERIES, CAFÉS AND RESTAURANTS, AND IS WHERE WE’RE HEADING TO SPEND A COUPLE OF DAYS EXPLORING THE REGION WHILE STAYING AT KORU HIDEAWAY, AN AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOME AWAY FROM HOME. Words DEE COLLINS Images ALEX SPODYNEIKO + SUPPLIED

wned by Lindsay and Brian McPhun, Koru Hideaway is tucked away from prying eyes on the stunning Tāwharanui Peninsula. Lindsay was born and raised in Zimbabwe, where she developed her lifelong passion for nature and wildlife, and found her true calling as a wildlife artist when she moved to America. It’s where she met Brian, a Kiwi and goldsmith by trade, and where they lived for many years before a New Zealand lifestyle beckoned. When the 120-acre farm surrounding their Tāwharanui home was put up for sale with a proposal to build houses, they knew they had to do something before the character of the bay was forever changed. They bit the bullet and bought the farm, initially living in a shed before building Koru House. Six years in the making, they moved from section to section until it was finally complete. On arrival we’re warmly welcomed by our hosts and their

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three rescue greyhounds. Lindsay, now an internationally recognised wildlife artist, gives us a tour of their spacious home where the high ceilings and enormous windows give the house a light and airy ambience. The sliding glass doors frame spectacular views, and spacious decks lead to expansive lawns, which are the perfect size for a game of cricket or volleyball. Original and reproduction art – including Lindsay’s – adorn the walls. With the infusion of ethnic colours and textures, there’s a definite ‘Africa’ feel to much of the décor. The exterior’s award-winning design and unique architectural features are equally impressive and the combination of concrete (cast on site), limestone and glass blend perfectly into the countryside. As its name suggests, the exterior layout is based on a koru frond curling towards the infinity solar-heated swimming pool. There’s also an inviting pergola entertainment area with wood-fired pizza oven.

Koru Hideaway is the studio wing of Koru House offering two self-contained spacious units that can fit families of up to six people. Our room has beautiful rustic furniture with tasteful ethnic touches; there’s a decent sized kitchen (the accommodation is self-catering) and a wood-burning fireplace with two cosy bean bags placed in front – most welcome on the cold evenings. The pièce de résistance is the spa bath nestled in a sheltered corner on the outside deck – with a glass in hand while staring up at the stars, taking a hot soak is a definite must-do. Over the years, Brian and Lindsay have planted more than 300,000 trees, which are covenanted, and this effort, together with being located in close proximity to the predatorfree Tāwharanui Regional Park, has created an area rich with bird life – ideal for Lindsay’s art. Koru Hideaway is an absolute hidden treasure. Setting aside any thoughts of work, it’s the perfect place to escape, unwind and luxuriate in its delightful offerings.

TRAVEL | focus

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focus | TRAVEL

OUR TOP MATAKANA PICKS Matakana is a popular getaway destination for day visitors and holidaymakers. With its rolling countryside, spectacular coastline, beaches and hidden coves, the region is a year-round destination,

but if you want to escape the Auckland crowd and masses of holidaymakers, plan to visit in winter or spring. If you’re only staying a few days, here are our top picks:

BRICK BAY SCULPTURE TRAIL & THE GLASS HOUSE Spend a leisurely hour discovering sculptures as you meander past lakes and through vineyards, fields and pristine native forest. End your walk at The Glass House, overlooking the lily pond, and indulge in a Brick Bay handcrafted, estate-grown wine and a meal from its sensational menu.

SCULPTUREUM Trip Advisor ranks Sculptureum as the ‘Second Best Thing to Do in Auckland’ and with more than 700 artworks spread over six indoor art galleries and 1.5km of gardens, it’s easy to see why. The glass art on display is said to be one of the best in the southern hemisphere and the enormous glass chandelier created by American artist Dale Chihuly is spectacular.

SAWMILL BREWERY AND SMOKO ROOM Order a shared platter of local produce and savour samplings of several craft beers, all brewed on site. Using New Zealand hops and malts, the beers have no sugar, preservatives or colouring.

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MATAKANA FARMERS MARKET Offering fresh, sustainably-grown, local artisan goods, this is THE place to be on a Saturday morning. Relax beside the river listening to live music, and visit the various galleries and shops in the surrounding Matakana Village.

TRAVEL | focus

TI POINT Following the foreshore, with views out towards Omaha Beach and Whangateau Harbour, the gravel track and boardwalk give way to narrow tracks with tree roots and boulders. A steep hill at the end has a great outlook to Leigh Harbour and Little Barrier Island.

TĀWHARANUI REGIONAL PARK This mainland ‘island’ eco-sanctuary is protected by a 2.5km predator-proof fence and covers 588 hectares with walks through bush, wetlands, beaches and farmland. This eco-paradise is a haven for many endangered birds, including kiwi, and also offers beautiful beaches, swimming, surfing and snorkelling.

GOAT ISLAND RESERVE, LEIGH Created in 1975, this is the first no-take marine reserve in New Zealand, with fantastic snorkelling and diving. Visit the Marine Discovery Centre for interactive displays or take a ride on a glass-bottomed boat and experience marine life up close.

KIWINESS TOURS A tour with Ness Wards, owner of Kiwiness Tours, is a must-do. Her passion for the area is contagious. We highly recommend the evening kiwi sanctuary walk in the Tāwharanui Regional Park where there’s an 85% chance of seeing a kiwi in its natural habitat.

MATAKANA CINEMAS Grab a glass of wine from The Vintry before heading next door to watch a movie. Even the ceilings in this boutique movie house are worth the visit!

CHARLIES GELATO A scoop of Charlie’s award-winning handmade gelato should definitely be on your to-do list. Delicious!

MORRIS AND JAMES POTTERY Learn about the history and processes of this iconic pottery in one of its daily tours or simply browse through the showroom. An on-site café offers daily brunch and lunch options.

MATAKANA RIVER TOURS Offering river cruises, stand-up paddle boarding and oyster farm tours. Shuck and eat fresh oysters straight from the sea.

Hop onto our website focusmagazine.co.nz/magical-matakana to read more. 

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FOOD | focus

Seedlip – the world’s first distilled nonalcoholic spirit that boasts zero calories, is sugar free, sweetener free and artificial flavour free. Available in three varieties – Garden 108, Spice 94 and Grove 42. Best served with tonic or as the base for a martini or sour-style non-alcoholic cocktails.

THIRST

Quencher

WE’VE FOUND THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR WHAT TO DRINK WHEN YOU’RE NOT DRINKING – SEEDLIP.

THE GROVE MULE INGREDIENTS:

• 50ml Seedlip Grove • 45ml Ginger Juniper Lime Syrup, or the equivalent • Ice • Soda water • Round lime wedge

METHOD:

• Take your glass of choice we would recommend a stemless wine glass. Add 6 ice cubs. • Add 50ml of Seedlip Grove • Add 45ml of your ginger syrup • Fill glass with soda water • Stir until all combined • Add lime round to garnish, and serve

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focus | PROPERTY

HELPING YOU TO FIND YOUR SPECIAL HOME Images VANESSA LAVAL-GLAD

Deborah Peake, sales agent for Tremains, chats with her delighted client

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focus | PROPERTY

TIP: Purchasing a property is one of the largest financial decisions of your life. Find an experienced lawyer or conveyancer who will assist you with the due diligence process. The due diligence process should include reviewing the agreement before you sign to spot any fish hooks, and reviewing the certificate of title and LIM report so that you understand what you are purchasing.

TIP: Going through a real estate sales consultant gives you an extra layer of protection. They are trained, licensed professionals who must follow the standards set out in the Code of Professional Conduct and Client Care and meet their obligations under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008. They can be held accountable for misrepresenting a property. Then I saw a really nice house up for private sale, so I put an offer on it. But unfortunately I missed out because the lawyer wasn’t able to process things in time. I still got charged for it though – money going out that I didn’t have to spare! I got pretty low then, thinking about what more life could throw at me after all I’d been through, and when I’d been trying so hard.

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So then I met Deborah Peake. She spent time with me to understand what I was looking for and about my situation, and then took me to view five or six properties. I was still feeling really low at this point so when a new house came up and Deborah said, “let’s give it a go”, I couldn’t help thinking about the other ideal house that I’d lost. This time, though, I had my lawyer sorted in advance and I had really great people working with me – it felt like this time I might have a better chance. TIP: Ensure the agent that you’re dealing with is a competent negotiator. Ask to see their testimonials or references. Successful deals only happen when two parties come together, amicably. When I looked at the road, I thought, okay it was a little busy, but the house was hidden away and it was peaceful, and the neighbours were lovely. And the view – that was stunning. It was just incredible; exactly what I had on my wishlist! Looking back now, it was amazing that we found it. Because the budget was so tight, there weren’t many options,

PROPERTY | focus

but by working with Deborah, she was an expert on the market and knew exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I’d do differently is to get a building report. I couldn’t afford one at the time so had to cross my fingers. Luckily the house was brick, so I trusted that things would be okay, however getting a report is the sensible thing to do. TIP: Get the specialist help you need. The Real Estate Authority (REA) recommends you hire an accredited property inspector, who will write a report about the property and identify any defects, and what urgent and longterm maintenance is required. Staying positive was key. Honestly, there were some low points, but surrounding myself with the right people made all the difference to my success. Now I have my own home and I love it. 

CONTRIBUTORS

DEBORAH PEAKE Tremains

KIRSTEN MURFITT km Law

KIM NOCK Habit Tauranga Limited

022 647 2865 tremains.co.nz

07 543 9476 kmlaw.co.nz

07 570 3455 thehabit.co.nz

KAREN RAGGETT Loan Market 0275 348 975 loanmarket.co.nz/ karen-raggett

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focus | PROMOTION

DRAKE

SOLVES YOUR RECRUITMENT H E A DAC H E S

rake has nearly 50 years’ experience in New Zealand, freeing up customers’ time by sourcing high quality candidates to fill those important temporary or permanent positions. This formula has allowed Drake’s customers to focus on what they do best – their core business. Whether the need for temporary staff is because of company expansion, maternity/paternity cover, or just a really busy period, Drake’s expertise spans across a range of different industries and sectors. Adapting to a flexible (temporary) staffing strategy during peak periods gives your business the agility to succeed. Drake has proven itself as one of the most trusted names in this area of human resources. The benefits can include: • Access to a large pool of screened staff at short notice. • Greater cost efficiencies: paying only for the hours worked. • A thorough screening process, including reference and background checks. • Reducing overheads associated with hiring permanent staff. • And importantly, a 24-hour, 7 day-a-week after-hours service, which means if you have staff calling in sick at 2am, Drake can organise coverage while you get back to sleep!

Image by yanalya / Freepik

Drake recruits for both white collar and blue collar roles. Blue collar roles include forklift drivers/operators, pickers/packers,

SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1951 IN CANADA, DRAKE HAS BEEN A LEADING PROVIDER OF RECRUITMENT AND HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS. TODAY, DRAKE IS REPRESENTED ACROSS NEW ZEALAND AND SPECIFICALLY HERE IN THE BAY OF PLENTY WITH AN OFFICE LOCATED ON THE STRAND.

warehouse managers/supervisors or labourers. White collar roles include account clerks, data entry specialists, administrators/EAs, customer service, sales staff, or office managers, etc. Drake can also help their customers with permanent staffing solutions. Finding staff who generate long-term value for your organisation cannot be left to chance. Before any candidate is presented, your Drake Recruitment Consultant has already performed a series of interviews and indicative tests to predict and evaluate performance, behaviours and the likelihood of their success in the role, including Drake’s own Behavioural Assessment testing. (Industry feedback indicates that over 85% of employees leave an organisation due to a personality or culture clash. DrakeP3 is a multi-purpose behavioural assessment tool that allows Drake to find, select, manage, motivate and retain top performers with the right ‘fit’ for their customers' organisation). If you want to get the best out of your recruiter, where you can, give them the role exclusively. Try and avoid farming-out this important hire to numerous agencies. While you might get a flurry of activity in the first instance, agencies are more likely to spend time filling roles for customers who are partnering with them and where they are not competing with other recruiters in town. It can also be confusing for the potential candidates and is not a good look for your company either – you are looking for the best candidate and often that takes time. 

0800 854 714 DONNA WALLACE dwallace@nzdrakeintl.com 3/87 The Strand, Tauranga

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GI VEAWAYS

GIVEAWAYS | focus

ENTER AT FOCUSMAGAZINE.CO.NZ/WIN | ENTRIES CLOSE 10 NOVEMBER 2019

Nutra-Life supplements Win one of four sets of Nutra-Life Magnesium Sleep+ and Nutra-Life Magnesium Stress Ease supplements. These products are extremely beneficial in supporting a healthy nervous system, relaxation and sleeping patterns, and assisting the body to cope with stress.

Eve

A week’s supply of products from Foodbox Foodbox finds the best organic and free-range products at the local farmers’ markets and delivers them right to your door. They are giving away three ‘Cooking for One’ boxes with fruits, veggies, meats and bread – enough to last you a week. Skip shopping and eat healthily!

at-home hormone balance test Every woman is unique and so should our approach to health be specific to each of us. Based on the results of your at-home test, the Eve™ team of PhD scientists helps you to understand your unique hormone picture and gives detailed diet, lifestyle and nutritional support recommendations. Win one of two Eve™ tests!

Brazilian sugaring at The Sugaring Room There’s nothing like a smooth, clean skin! Sugaring is a safer and less painful alternative to waxing, especially when performed by a specialist from Brazil – come on, the Brazilian was named after Brazil! We’re giving away five vouchers to The Sugaring Room in Tauranga CBD. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | LAST PAGE

ALICE HUTCHISON Company: Tauranga Art Gallery Position: Director

GALLERY DIRECTOR FOR THE PAST SIX MONTHS AND CURATOR WORKING INTERNATIONALLY FOR 20 YEARS. BASED PRIMARILY IN CALIFORNIA, WORKING WITH SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST ILLUSTRIOUS CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS AND INSTITUTIONS, INCLUDING THE VENICE BIENNALE. FORMER DIRECTOR OF ARATOI MUSEUM IN MASTERTON.

WHAT BOOK WOULD YOU RE-READ OR WHAT MOVIE WOULD YOU WATCH AGAIN, AND WHY? A Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne. My dad introduced me to Jules Verne when I was about 10 and I’d love to have time to re-read it but actually I’m immersed in exploring regional history and my great uncle’s MA history thesis he wrote under Sir Āpirana Ngata. WHAT DO YOU LOVE DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME? I wish I had spare time! If I had more of it I’d be taking long walks along the beach gazing at the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the changing light – after six months in Tauranga, I’ve only been to the Mount a few times. WHAT NEW INNOVATIONS OR DEVELOPMENTS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING IN THE BAY ONE DAY? Our expanded, state-of-the-art world-class art gallery.

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WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? Working for fashion designer Karen Walker. WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? Go to New York! (By my favourite lecturer at university.) WHAT BOOKS ARE ON YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE? A stack of Frieze contemporary art magazines. IF TIME TRAVEL WAS REALITY AND YOU COULD HOP BACK 20 YEARS, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Do your PhD! IF YOU COULD HEAD OFF ON HOLIDAY, MONEY NO OBJECT, WHERE WOULD YOU GO? Samoa or one of my favourite magical spots in the world – the islands in the Bay of Naples, Italy. 