Category: Lifestyle

Remember the days in Aotearoa when a coffee purchased away from home involved a ceramic cup, a saucer, a tablecloth and possibly a custard square on the side? 

When we enjoyed the whole ambience of a quaint coffee lounge, a friendly chat, the delicious smells and the people who seated us, served us and cleaned our dishes in a sink of hot water. (Well, if you are Gen Z or younger you may not remember – but I promise it was a thing).

Circles. Her eyes light up as I walk in: I’ve always loved her eyes, an unusual uniform colour like a warm brown; circular pools of melted chocolate. Today, she’s alert and animated. “Stella! It’s so good to see you.” Mum always speaks with emphasis. With meaning.
When we enjoyed the whole ambience of a quaint coffee lounge, a friendly chat, the delicious smells and the people who seated us, served us and cleaned our dishes in a sink of hot water. (Well, if you are Gen Z or younger you may not remember – but I promise it was a thing).

How can we help our little blue penguins survive in this changing world?

With sleek blue feathers, a small yet solid stature and cute pink feet, the kororā (blue penguin) is a beloved part of our coastal wildlife and landscapes. Being the only penguin species naturally found around the North Island coastline, kororā are a taonga (treasure) to many coastal communities, including the likes of Kūaotunu.

Becoming a parent is like going through a second puberty. You can know all the theories, but nothing can prepare you for the lived experience. It can unveil things about you that you weren’t aware of. It can test your relationships. And while each overall journey is different to the next, there are many shared moments and feelings between all parents. It can feel like you’ve joined a secret club – particularly when you become a mother.