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Hearts Racing
A shared passion for horse racing brought Jessica Murphy, known as Jess, and Marc Hamilton together, so when the couple exchanged vows on a bluebird autumn day in Central Otago, it made sense for Jess’s Appaloosa gelding, Micah, to take a starring role.
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.
Still Here
Her father’s influence and a deep love for animals inspired her to become a shepherd, but it’s not been an easy road for Wairarapa-based Lara Smith, 29. Here, she shares how her persistence has paid off.
Dusting off the Silks
For over 150 years, the Chatham Islands Jockey Club has been woven into the fabric of island life. For club treasurer, harness driver and trainer Monique Croon (Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri), 59, that connection runs deep through six generations of her whānau. Here, Monique and other women involved in the races reflect on the club’s history and significance to the community.
Grace & Ruby
When their two Murihiku Southland rugby clubs merged for the 2025 season to form a new team, Tū Kotahi Wahine, Grace Duthie (Ngāi Tahu), 20, and Ruby Laidlaw, 22, went from being rivals to teammates. We caught up with them last year, and asked about the change.
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.
Finding The Strength
Shepherdess recently visited Mātāwai sheep and beef farmer Jenny Sandford, 40, for our new podcast, Far From Town, made in collaboration with RNZ. Here is some of her conversation with podcast host Arpége Taratoa-Rangikura.
A Dream & Hard Graft
A way of life with a love of horses at its core, encompassed by a strong belief that horses can heal.
Māpiu
Kim lives with her husband David on his family farm in Māpiu, where she has planted roots and been enveloped by the town’s tight-knit community.
A Call Away
Long-time sheep and beef farmer Jen Le Pine, 50, fills her cup with volunteering in the Cheviot community.
Finding their Farm
Charlotte Plummer
Moving is never easy, least of all when you’re headed across the ocean to make a home in a new country. Meet Charlotte Plummer, balancing her veterinary career with farming in Morrinsville.
Becoming a Mother
When Eloise and her husband purchased virgin land near Whangārei Heads, they wanted to have a go at living in a yurt off-grid.
Savoury Herb Shortbread
These are ridiculously moreish. They make a nice change from a sweet biscuit in the afternoon, and are great at aperitivo time!
Moments, Kōanga Spring 2023
I have always loved this picture. To be honest, I have no idea why Anton, 9, was up on top of the washing line, or how on earth he got up there.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our Takurua Winter Edition is out 8 June.