Still on the Station
Cath Ward (Ngāti Raukawa) found a new purpose for both herself and Pahi Station when she and her husband, Zander, established the Pahi Coastal Walk – a private walk that takes in the farm’s sweeping coastline, rolling farmland and native bush.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The High Road
Winter weather makes for wrapping up warm. We took the high road to Kawarau The Remarkables for this photoshoot – a place where sheep wander and a woollen coat proves its worth.
Written on the Floor
Restoring an early-nineteenth century bakehouse brought the Millers Flat community together. Now, it brings history to life for locals and visitors alike.
A Way with Words
More than just a festival, a Booktown is a town that has forged its identity around books. Intrigued, Kristy recently spoke to Mary, who has been Featherston Booktown’s operations manager for the past seven years, to find out more about the impact the initiative has had on the small South Wairarapa community.
Wild for Flowers
Emilie Bean has spent the past four years growing her cut flower business – The Arrowtown Flower Company – and supplying local blooms around Kā-Muriwai Arrowtown. More than a luxury, they are a way for Emilie to create connection and mark special occasions through beauty.
Golden Days
Light layers for the lingering autumn sun and warmer ones for crisp mornings. Here we draw inspiration from autumn in Māniatoto Central Otago – russet hues from tussock and the muted tones of Clyde’s historic brick-lined streets.
Stronger Together
Meg Burden’s farm was one of many properties damaged and cut off during and in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. Two years on, Meg reflects on the little and big things they did to get by, and how the strength of rural communities shines through.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our beautiful Takurua Winter 2026 Edition is out now.