Generations of Care

Robyn Stephens, a Te Rohe Pōtae King Country farmer and grandmother of nine, took up dog trials at the age of fifty-nine, following in her father’s footsteps, and at seventy-six is still working as a casual musterer. Here, she reflects on her connection to the past and how her whānau Māori has influenced her.

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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.

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All Aboard

We could smell the salt in the air when we set out to show Swanndri in its element – out in the elements.

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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.

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Forging a Path

Forging hot steel, wielding sharp blades, and working with half-tonne horses at close quarters is no easy feat, but for Hawke’s Bay farrier Blythe Cruickshank, 32, it’s just another day at the office.

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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.

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Judy Waterson

Nicol’s Blacksmith Shop, Duntroon

Going South – Te Anau

At the highest point on Cathedral Peaks Station, Cabot Lodge presents itself like a gem.

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forest path

Going South – Tawanui

Your first glimpse of Mohua Park’s four studio cottages blending into a bold stand of native bush will have you putting on the brakes.

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A Sacred Art

Toi Te Rito Maihi is a painter, printmaker and weaver, esteemed in many creative circles.

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landscape near Wānaka

Weaving Together Four Families

On their wedding day, Amelia and Matamoana Nuku were able to honour their families – and their traditions – in a way that celebrated love.

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a group of women sitting, chatting and laughing, inside a woolshed

Lisa Portas

Lisa takes us into the century-old woolshed on Palliser Ridge, where she hosts a monthly community knitting group.

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Hidden in the Hokianga

For this Back Roads, Tina takes us on a personal tour of her hau kāinga.

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Takurua Winter 2026 Edition

Twenty-Sixth Edition

Our beautiful Takurua Winter 2026 Edition is out now.

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