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.
Trudy Hales
Trudy farms at Weber, half an hour from Dannevirke, with her husband Simon and boys Rocky and Alby. Here is Trudy’s story, in her own words.
Light on the Land
This Nelson-based artist finds herself in a very sweet spot, rendering on canvas, the rustic landscapes and sun-faded palettes of the town she grew up in and adores.
Annie Chambers
Tuki Equine is Annie’s universe, one hundred acres of Hawke’s Bay flat, rolling and hill country that sits above the Tukituki River.
Making the Right Country Notes
For the past decade, independent singer-songwriter, Kaylee Bell, has been making a name for herself in the Australian and American country music scenes.
Marriage of a Fifth Generation Farmer
There’s something special about being married on the family farm; even more so when it’s fifth generation.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our Takurua Winter Edition is out 8 June.