Shepherd Dreams
Victoria Baker knew from a young age that she wanted to follow in her parents’ footsteps. Although taking over the family farm wasn’t always on the cards, Victoria and her partner, Gregor Goble, are now continuing her parents’ legacy, shepherding a new generation.
All Aboard
We could smell the salt in the air when we set out to show Swanndri in its element – out in the elements.
Ranfurly
Amie Pont (Taranaki), 47, is deeply acquainted with the seasons of the Maniototo, traditionally known to Māori as Māniatoto, in Central Otago, having spent most of her life there. Not content merely to observe, she has contributed much to the fabric of the community over the years, from volunteering at the local Ranfurly radio station to establishing the local paper, Positively Māniatoto.
Wairau Valley
Over twenty years ago, Angela Woolf, 55, her husband, Tony, and their eldest three children moved from Te Waiharakeke Blenheim to the nearby Wairau Valley, where their youngest was born. Angela, a writer, reflects on how historic buildings, like the Wairau Valley Tavern, shape and support their vibrant community.
Summer Lovin’
Summer florals made easy – perfect for picnics by the lake, a day at the races, or a barbecue with friends.
Katikati
Museums, as Paula Gaelic discovered, are not just places for sharing history but also for shaping a more inclusive future. As manager of the Western Bay Museum in Katikati, Paula, 61, a Pākehā woman, takes immense pride in working alongside Māori to guide the museum’s direction and foster deeper community connections.
Unchartered Waters
A sisterly nudge was what it took for Maegen Blom, 24, to apply for the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award. Here, the young leader recalls her pathway to becoming the operations manager of her family’s business – Mills Bay Mussels – and the first from the aquaculture industry to win the award.
A Taste of Timaru – Saskia
Saskia, a star of Timaru District’s food and beverage scene, shares how she spends her days off with Shepherdess.
A Taste of Timaru – Charlotte
Charlotte, a star of Timaru District’s food and beverage scene, shares how she spends her days off with Shepherdess.
A Taste of Timaru – Clarissa
Clarissa, a star of Timaru’s food and beverage scene, shares how she spends her days off with Shepherdess.
The Work-Love Balance
Kirsten and Holly Landreth work together on Thornicroft Station in the Strath Taieri valley as they advance their careers – and plan a family.
A Warm Wairoa Welcome
A fifth-generation farmer, single mum and entrepreneur, Rose shares her story and recommends the walks, views and places that have captured her heart in Wairoa.
Judy Waterson
Nestled among snow-capped mountain ranges and the lazy Waitaki River, you’ll find Judy Waterston firing up the forge and pumping the bellows at the historic Nicol’s Blacksmith Shop in Duntroon.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our Takurua Winter Edition is out 8 June.