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.
Living a Legacy
From the cattle yards of Kenhardt Angus in Nūhaka, northern Hawke’s Bay, to university in Waitaha Canterbury and Colorado, and now a trans-Tasman role at Angus Australia, Nancy uses her international perspective to inspire the next generation.
From Fleece to Flok
Using the wool grown on her farm and a little-known finishing process, Nicola Wylie created the Lora & Flok bedding range in September 2023.
Saddle Up
Inspired by cowboy culture and eucalypts, Shepherdess shot this beautiful collection of H&S Heritage dress shirts amongst the stables.
Big Dreams at Blue Duck
As their kids grow up, wild and free amidst the lush native bush of Ruapēhu at Blue Duck Station, Sandy and Dan welcome visitors to experience their piece of paradise.
Making Life Happen
After a life that has included solo parenting, learning how to shepherd and weathering the sudden loss of her husband, it is by acting on this maxim that Connie has ended up in her happy place amidst her menagerie of animals.
Belonging at Bendigo
Watching her parents – merino industry pioneers Heather and John Perriam – always strive to step out of the box and do business differently has shaped and inspired Christina Grant.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our Takurua Winter Edition is out 8 June.