An Unofficial Ambassador

Virginia Carter, 61, is a parking officer for the Gore District Council, where she’s worked for the past three decades – but she’s also taken on the unofficial role of being an ambassador for the town.

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Summer Lovin’

Summer florals made easy – perfect for picnics by the lake, a day at the races, or a barbecue with friends.

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Saniya & Morina

Dance like no one is watching is a saying Saniya Thompson, 35, and Morina Colyer (Fasito’o Tai & Le’auva’a, Upolu, Sāmoa), 42, of South Pole Dance studio in Waihōpai Invercargill wholeheartedly encourage. The duo run inclusive pole dancing classes making women – and the occasional bloke – feel confident, strong and joyful in their own bodies.

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Chat on the Chathams

In a place as remote as Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Islands, making the most of resources and being self-sustaining is less an aspiration than a necessity. Greer Paterson, 32, our resident columnist – and also a school teacher, fencing contractor, mum of two and much-loved Shepherdess team member – gives a glimpse into her “Backyard Butchery.”

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Emma Sage

Emma Sage, 36, launched Sage Journal online in June 2020. This year, Sage went from online to print.

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An Ordinary Day

It was just an ordinary day in the Strath Taieri Valley for Anna and Bevan Wilson when Bevan had an accident while working on their farm. Although it was serious, the couple are mindful that the situation could have been far worse. Now, one year on, Anna and a fully recovered Bevan reflect on how they handle on-farm risk.

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First Responder

Megan Shirley’s family has a long history of volunteering in the Lumsden community. It’s a tradition that Megan, 47, a former wool classer now working for PGG Wrightson, has upheld through her involvement with the Northern Southland Community Shears and Hato Hone St John.

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Where They Want to Be

Kali Rangiawha (Tainui) is not afraid of hard work. From contract milking on her own – with a baby in tow – to juggling farming and parenting with her partner, Will Hinton, her goal now is one of balance, and building the best possible life for her whānau.

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