Office's Blog

The couple finding a lifetime of peace in Hawke's Bay

A pair of serial entrepreneurs are right at home in the province where they were born.

Recipe: Meatballs with Cinnamon Tomato Sauce & Orzo

Comfort food at its best.

The Farm Awaroa has become a haven with a purpose to heal

A patch of remote farmland in Abel Tasman helped two sisters take their first steps towards healing. Now, they’ve created a retreat for others to do the same

The bird of the century's Wānaka protectors

In 2023, the pūteketeke went global. This Central Otago project has been its biggest cheerleader far longer

One of NZ's most celebrated poets has a unique favourite seat

When Selina Tusitala Marsh wants to still her mind, she escapes into the arms of an ancient pōhutukawa.

What’s On: May and June highlights

Recipe: Ouzo Coffee

This after-dinner drink is a sophisticated way to end an evening meal.

Recipe: Yoghurt Flatbread with Olives, Feta & Red Onion

Homemade bread studded with feta, red onions, olives and rosemary.

This 90-year-old Taihape garden is still in its horticultural prime

A garden designed in 1936 is showing its age — quite beautifully — in the hands of yet another generation of the same clan.

Bringing back the stars

Keeping the Wairarapa in the dark is a six-year mission for a resident and his band of like-minded enthusiasts.

The rise of the kunekune

Aotearoa’s beloved roly-poly piggies are making a big noise overseas – with good reason.

A man's journey to leadership through reconnecting to his roots

Hemi Sundgren's quest to reclaim identity and te reo Māori has put him in the roles of historian, artist and tribal leader.

Recipe: Peach Bellinis

This summery cocktail is often made with uncooked pureed fruit, but roasting the peaches develops their flavour and adds an extra sweetness.

How to make the most out of an eggplant haul

Nothing absorbs flavours like eggplant. Jenny Garing shares her tips to get the best out of this peculiar purple vegetable.

Recipe: Courgette, Currant & Pine Nut Salad

This salad is quick and easy to prepare, as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.

When the growing gets tough

As climate change impacts the supply of certain foods, it’s going to become increasingly important to rely on unlikely alternatives.

Piha’s community effort to resurrect their land

The Piha community rallies to plant native bush on slips caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The art of choosing a chicken breed

Six things you’ll need to consider to pick the right chooks for your coop.

The company marching into battle against cleaning product giants

Auckland start-up Cleanery is cleaning up the supermarket aisles, one sachet at a time.

A childhood fashion dream led to this Otago's woman's thriving sustainable coat company

An Otago woman’s quest to find the perfect locally made woollen coat turned into a sustainable fashion brand starring the wool from her own sheep

What's on: Fabric-a-Brac

If you love fabrics, textiles, or just finding a bargain, you'll find plenty of inspiration at Fabric-a-brac.

Rebecca Stewart: A No. 8 wire attitude

Rebecca knows that the No. 8 wire rule is a way of life.

Nicola Galloway: Apple Pie Smoothie

A autumnal dessert in a deliciously drinkable format.

Recipe: Ginger Cakes

This cake must, must, must be eaten fresh and warm from the oven.

The Whanganui couple gifting a historic fire station a new lease on life

A 1920s fire station has undergone a modern makeover in the hands of a Whanganui couple.

Recipe: Tomato, Spinach & Basil Rolled Eggplant

These rolled eggplants are a delicious starter on their own or can do double-duty as a side.

The Golden Bay orchard dedicated to finding the perfect feijoa

Nigel Ritson has spent the last 35 years breeding feijoas, searching for the perfect fruit.

Keeping the egg shortage from your block

The egg shortage has shown just how important homegrown eggs are. So how do you keep them coming?

The view from the top of the Seaward Kaikōura Range is worth the climb

The remote beauty of the Seaward Kaikōura Range allows for the avid climber to trek through historical footsteps.

Recipe: A picture-perfect (but veggie-packed) garden cake

This garden cake celebrates any of the fruits and vegetables that are in season or lying around.

Prepare the garden for the incoming cold this April

There's plenty to do in the height of autumn.

Ever heard of a chook tractor?

Chickens and gardens don’t normally mix, so it often comes down to a choice: do you fence the garden, fence the chooks, or allow them to thrive together?

The family and the heritage country house that were meant to find one another

An important historic home with 4.5 hectares of woodland grounds comes into the hands of new owners.

The curious structure of the honeybee world

Just as in human societies, a honeybee colony has its own structures, systems and ways of living.

Recipe: Lamb Biryani & Crunchy Filo Rosettes

Nothing takes me back home more than eating this delicious dish with its fragrant layers of saffron rice, fried onions and flavourful curry

Why nashi pears should be top of your list

Whether you add it to a fruit salad, or use it to tenderise your steak, nashi is a great addition to every garden and kitchen.

The American sport quickly capturing Kiwi hearts

A full-time school principal and part-time pickleball player hopes his sport will become New Zealand’s next big thing.

Taking a shot on organic produce

Rhona MacKenzie’s life as a drinks manufacturer started when she bought a lemon.

DIY: Miniature Garden

Time to downsize! Create your own tiny landscape out of moss, flowers, twigs and foliage.

Recipe: Baklava Cheesecake with Orange Blossom Syrup

Nothing beats the flavours of a gorgeous baklava — think orange, saffron, honey and pistachios.

Hoop-jumping and council consents: Michael Andrew’s journey of building a home from scratch

NZ Lifestyle Block editor Michael Andrew writes about the essential yet tedious hoop-jumping business of council consents.

A couple "retiring" in delicious style

This oasis on the edge of the Kawarau Gorge has evolved over the decades into a retirement haven for the owners — although that doesn’t mean they’re slowing down.

Recipe: Cardamon Tiramisu

Tiramisu made traditionally with eggs is well worth the extra effort as it results in a silky, refined dessert.

What's On: March and April Highlights

There's a little something for everyone this March and April.

DIY: A pressed flower lantern to light up dark evenings

Candlelight and flowers — what could be prettier?

How to keep a fly invasion under control

Nelson Lebo shares his tips to stiffen defences with an effective yet affordable homemade fly trap.

The pest species with surprising benefits

The elder tree has been revered by human beings for millennia for its spiritual and medicinal applications.

Recipe: Lemon & Basil Gnocchi

Light and fluffy gnocchi, each little piece flavoured with lemon and basil.

A highly-coveted Holden and its nostalgic owner

A car purchased for fun and frolics has turned its owner into an accidental investor.

The art of maintaining and containing rescue goats

There’s an art to keeping goats, and it usually involves a stupendous amount of fencing.

A garden checklist for the first signs of autumn

Enjoy the final summer goodies and start to prepare for autumn.

The woman encouraging New Zealanders to eat more seaweed

A marketer has never felt anything like the excitement she feels for the humble weeds of the sea.

All you need to know about alpaca skin disease

Underneath their fluffy fleeces, alpacas are prone to a range of skin conditions. But there are ways to treat them.

This couple's double life between Amsterdam and Ōakura

An entrepreneurial couple get the best of both worlds with back-to-back summers.

Polly Greeks: Becoming an angel

Polly’s natural capacity for empathy makes her an Angel.

Exploring Indonesia and Australia from the suite life of a luxury cruise ship

A couple explores the rugged beauty of Indonesia and Australia’s Northern Territory from a luxury cruise ship.

The luxury retreat lovingly restored by keen owners

A beautifully restored northern Wairarapa house, a seven-year labour of love for this much-travelled New Zealand couple, is now arms wide open to guests.

Four top-notch interior design tips for improving a stylish abode

It doesn't take a lot of time, cost or effort to elevate the beauty of your home, says interiors expert Tracy Hawker.

The trials and triumphs of the ultra-marathon

Queenstown's attractions led a new arrival towards the region to ultra running. It has become a voyage of self-discovery.

The duo protecting kororā in Kaiteriteri

As little penguins make the risky journey to and from their burrows, a couple from Kaiteriteri act as their guardians.

Recipe: Real Chocolate Eggs

Have some fun with your little ‘bunnies’ by teaching them to make homemade chocolate eggs.

Recipe: Quinoa-Stuffed Red Capsicums

These capsicums are first roasted, then stuffed with cherry tomatoes, feta and herby quinoa.

Five ways to handle old hens

What to consider when it’s time to retire old hens.

Thsese summery custard tarts are perfect picnic fare

Bite-sized, vanilla-scented and piled high with purple blueberries.

Cruising on the Otago Harbour

A wildlife cruise on the Otago Harbour with this keen skipper could likely turn the most resolute landlubber into an ocean bird obsessive.

8 plants to get through droughts

With water shortages becoming more common, here’s how you can keep your garden alive and thriving during the dry months.

Keeping up with the cucumbers

Harvest time can be demanding and hectic – especially when you get into a pickle with certain prolific vegetables.

Recipe: Blushing Rhubarb Syrup

This rhubarb syrup blushes the prettiest pink and adds flavour and colour to any drink.

A dreamy canvas getaway high in the Waitomo hills

After escaping inner-city stress for life on the farm, a Waitomo family is offering an oasis for those who wish to do the same.

The Buick that crossed the Pacific

Purchased from a seller in Michigan, a dismantled vintage car makes an international journey.

Recipe: Blueberry Yoghurt Tart

Dot sweet blueberries on top of a gooey yoghurt filling.

A couple adopt a pair of inseparable rescue goats

The line between pet and farm animal can often get blurry – especially when you adopt from the SPCA.

The little libraries with a purpose

An Auckland woman finds a creative outlet that brings her joy and delights her community.

Nicola Galloway’s summer plum cobbler

Plum season is here, delivering its assortment in different shapes, sizes and flavours.

The Australian woman behind Aotea's gin

From advertising creative to gin distiller, Andi Ross exemplifies the liberating potential of a midlife career change.

Fire prevention, done by a New Zealand block expert

Some of the best and most cost-effective fire prevention experts can be found on many New Zealand rural properties.

What to do with a basket of apricots

Enchanted by the nostalgia of apricots, Jenny Garing shares some delectable recipes – including one passed down by her mother.

Dr Roderick Mulgan: Talking about chronic pain

New light is being shed on the type of pain that has no obvious cause, prompting hope for thousands.

Nicola Galloway's summer-worthy zucchini spaghetti

A simple yet delicious way to tackle a zucchini glut.

A mudbrick home in Golden Bay inspired by Native American and Mediterranean styles

This Kiwi chef is living his dream to build an adobe earth house and develop a permaculture block.

Tips for mowing on a slope

In a country like New Zealand, seldom is a block owner blessed with a tabletop-flat piece of land.

The Bay of Plenty woman putting a fizz into kefir

The link between gut and mental health is a recent advance in medical knowledge. It sent a psychology student into a ferment.

A writer explores a tropical oasis

Rangiroa offers aquatic delights and a slice of France in the Pacific for those willing to take the plunge.

The Coromandel artist using colour to brighten up her gallery

After a challenging year for Coromandel, the Mercury Bay Art Escape is back to celebrate its natural and artistic wonders. Meet one of the exhibitors.

Recipe: Baked Cheesecake with Rosewater Strawberries

A showstopping dessert topped with ruby-red strawberries and pomegranates.

One man’s return to his motoring roots results in a grand Triumph

A British sportscar fan, keen to recreate a marque he was involved in developing, nearly stumbles at the last hurdle.

Recipe: Pea & Mint Fritters with Caper Crème Fraîche

These fritters deliver a bold burst of flavour, especially when paired with a tangy accompaniment.

The inspiration behind a moveable coop

Andrea Graves checks out a moveable coop in action.

How kickboxing can provide more than just the workout

A young Auckland man finds solace in full-combat sport.

Polly Greeks: Let there be light

Electricity comes to Polly’s little section of Northland, and the lights — metaphorical and literal — go on.

The different sides to chicken fencing

The best ways to keep chickens in their run and out of the garden.

An avid reader finds endless comfort in her favourite seat

Claire Mabey’s favourite chair was saved from a life of destitution at the tip. It now serves as her faithful reading assistant.

What’s On: January and February activities

Kick off the new year with some excellent artistic ventures.

Common mistakes with pigs

All you need to know about what can, and does, go wrong with pigs.

Recipe: Lemon Pistachio Loaf

Add a little honey on top of this smooth loaf for the ultimate treat.

Keeping a cool house this summer

As heatwaves hit the country, make sure you're maintaining a cool temperature in your house.

The Food Farm reap the rewards of the coast

After a busy spring, it sometimes pays to take a break from the farm and head to the coast for its own unique bounty of kai.

Recipe: Golden Smoothie Bowl

Start a summer morning right with a refreshing smoothie bowl.

The delights of cherry season

Easy ways to turn the summer cherry glut into Christmas decadence.

The endless bounty of corn cobs

Few vegetables evoke sunny summer days more than crisp, sweet corn on the cob.

Homemade Christmas gift ideas

Shun the shops and reduce waste with these simple, handcrafted gifts.

A fresh start for a January garden

Start the new year with a thriving garden.

The glam Hamilton home hosting a lifetime memories for a young family

There’s never a dull moment in this striking family home built by an energetic Hamilton family — and that’s just the way they like it.

Why this local Greytown gin company is one to look out for

A gin, owned and made by locals in one of the country’s most go-ahead villages, is the first distilled beverage off the block.

A houseboat and a tiny cabin straight out of the Shire

This jeweller and doctor duo from Poland might be the best ambassadors for tiny living.

Recipe: Chilli Jam Bacon & Egg Pie

Notch a picnic favourite up a level by adding soft herbs, chilli jam and red onion rings.

Alison Ballance's best seat has some stellar views

Natural history ace and active relaxer Alison Ballance’s favourite seat is a non-stationary affair.

How the Bostocks became New Zealand's organic powerhouse

The family at the forefront of large-scale organic food production takes us behind the scenes.

Q&A: Master caterer Tina Duncan' culinary wisdom

Renowned foodie Tina Duncan distils her 60 years of cooking (thus far) in a new cookbook.

Common mistakes with cattle

There’s more than meets the eye with these big, docile animals.

Recipe: Harissa & Almond Stuffed Rolled Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs stuffed with aromatic harissa, almond and apricot, rolled and wrapped in bacon, result in a succulent, full-flavoured festive showstopper.

Island Bay's marine conservation warriors are on a mission

A haven for marine species is also a place for schoolchildren to discover sea life.

All of the gardening jobs to get done this December

Summer is finally here meaning there's a lot to get done in the garden.

A summer of berries on The Food Farm

It just wouldn’t be Christmas without fresh berries adorning the desserts on the table.

Six tips to improve nesting boxes

How you can provide clean, private and safe nesting boxes with plenty of material when your birds get the urge to lay.

Dr Roderick Mulgan: Fuel of the future

Hydrogen is tipped to tackle various energy crises, but is it really the reliable next-gen energy source it claims to be?

A writer explores Adelaide's artistic side

A stroll through the streets and galleries of Adelaide inspires a new way of looking at the city.

The perfectly imperfect science behind a homegrown wedding

It’s hard to get a wedding perfect, but according to a family who created a beautiful, rustic-themed celebration on their Nelson lifestyle block, it doesn’t need to be.

The giant pumpkin contest that revived a community

On a rural road near the north Auckland town of Helensville, a group of residents are fostering community spirit by reviving an annual giant pumpkin contest.

Finding calm at this Karitāne coastal haven

Modern-day guests are more coddled than the property’s first war-ravaged inhabitants but they’re still chasing good health.

Recipe: Slow-Roasted Vine Tomatoes

Kick off a celebratory meal with an easy yet impressive starter.

DIY: A sturdy outdoor sun lounger

Welcome sunny days by relaxing in this easy-to-make lounge chair.

7 ways to create abundant food

Rebecca Stewart explores the best ways to maximise food production on the block.

Block bouquets: The unique foliage florists are clamouring for

While money doesn’t grow on trees, eucalyptus may be the exception.

3 tramping tracks to check out this summer

New Zealand has no shortage of inexpensive adventures.

How to control kikuyu

It’s the undisputed bane of many blocks, smothering pastures and strangling gardens.

The joys of asparagus season

Easy and timeless ways to get the best out of your asparagus crop.

Don't waste your carrot tops

Green carrot tops (sometimes called carrot greens or carrot fronds) are full of flavour and nutrition and very easy to use.

Recipe: Peanut Butter, Banana, Chocolate & Raspberry Loaf

This loaf makes a fantastic breakfast, lunch box filler or afternoon snack.

How to render fat

You can use fresh or frozen fat when rendering.

Nicola Galloway: Broad Bean, Avocado and Feta Dip

Nicola welcomes broad bean season with a delicious spring snack.

Late-spring gardening tips and tasks this for month

Summer is on the horizon, so best to get your warm-weather produce blooming.

Recipe: New Potato Salad with Crispy Chorizo, Olives, Green Beans & Lemon Mayo

Chock-full of good stuff, this salad is a potluck winner.

Farming jobs for November

With summer approaching, it's important to take action on the farm now.

Recipe: Smash Burgers with the Best Burger Sauce

This is the only way to make burger patties.

This farm has a passion for pulses

In celebration of legume season, Angela Clifford shares the ins and outs of growing these fantastic crops.

Recipe: Mushroom & Caramelised Onion Paté

Earthy mushrooms combine with sweet, caramelised onions to make a moreish dip.

An American and a Scotsman make a home in a slice of Tasman paradise

A picturesque patch of land in the Tasman region near Nelson grows in beauty and usefulness thanks to two expat kaitiakitanga.

The Westport woman putting an award-winning twist on the classic Kiwi pie

Her business has outgrown its original pandemic-proof online-only model into bricks and mortar retail, with a commercial kitchen and 17 staff.

How a Lake Ōhau couple built a treasure-packed barn from ashes

A phoenix arising from the destruction of fire is a perfect metaphor for the new home of a family who lost everything in the 2020 Lake Ōhau fires.

Recipe: Sauerkraut with Spring Onion, Radish, Chilli & Ginger

A staple sauerkraut loosely inspired by kimchi.

Recipe: Moroccan Preserved Lemons

When you have an abundance of lemons, preserve them in salt and add a versatile burst of flavour to many dishes all year round.

A guide to treasure hunting with contemporary fibre artist Fleur Woods

There are endless creative adventures to discover in an opshop.

How to prevent a backyard feather pecker

Feather pecking can be a problematic and mysterious behaviour, but there are ways to avoid it.

6 ways to create a survival garden

A “survival garden” can thrive perpetually with minimal inputs, conserving your time and energy.

Recipe: Keto Christmas Cake

Embrace the festive season with this keto take on a Christmas staple.

The number one tree in the permaculture handbook

Tagasaste grows fast, fixes nitrogen, feeds bees and stock, withstands extreme storms and droughts, and helps other seedlings grow.

Recipe: Apple Mint Kombucha

A refreshing summery kombucha that can be turned into delicious ice blocks.

Nicola Galloway: Flash-Cooked Asparagus and One-Jar Aioli

Nicola makes the most of the short and sweet asparagus season.

Why strawberry season is a favourite on The Food Farm

For Angela Clifford and her family, living on The Food Farm has been about appreciating the wonders of food and nature. Strawberries have been a key part of the journey.

Recipe: Ethiopian Carrot and Peanut Soup

This warming, nutritious soup is cheap, cheerful and easy to make.

Our art director explores the Routeburn Track

A group of friends pull on their tramping boots, fill a bag with anti-inflammatories and celebrate a 70th birthday in style.

The classic American candy taking Christchuch by storm

One woman’s bid to replicate the old-fashioned nut brittle of her American youth has landed her a faithful Kiwi following.

The vibrant versatility of carrots

There’s not much you can’t do with this beloved orange vegetable.

Nicola Galloway: Slow-Roasted Hazelnut Milk

Nicola talks about the importance of shopping local and the deliciousness that comes with it.

Down in the woods: A Raglan cabin houses handmade artisanal talent

A family used to living in far-flung countries has now returned to this 40-hectare Raglan lifestyle block, where their entrepreneurial natures have free reign.

Recipe: Kiwi Red Quinoa & Chickpea Salad

A wholesome salad that combines good-for-you greens with nutty quinoa and a zesty dressing, perfect with roasted game.

Maintaining the land on Blue Duck Station

A peek inside daily life on one of the country's most environmentally significant stations.

This Grapefruit & Campari Sour is fit for a celebration

This cheerfully coloured aperitivo is the ideal appetite-sharpener.

The Piha man bringing athletes to peak performance

A strong sense of place gives mind-body coach Dave Wood a grounded foundation.

The brilliantly blue Lotus that took a whole lot of heart to restore

Blue was how the owner of this roadster felt in the middle of the car's significant overhaul. But now he's much sunnier.

The rare cattle breed that narrowly escaped extinction

Have you heard of the Enderby Island cattle?

Why kānuka is finally getting the spotlight

A new study on eczema treatment has started a conversation about the potential value of kānuka on private land.

Recipe: Italian Lemon Yoghurt Cake

Adding Limoncello to the syrup makes this cake ultra-decadent.

A checklist for a successful October garden

Time to make the most of the slowly-warming weather.

Gut-soothing herbs and home concoctions

For when bloating, belching or heartburn are getting you down.

Polly Greeks: The magic of aliveness

What’s the secret to ageing well? Polly may have found it.

When chicken feed ain’t chicken feed

With global supply chain woes now affecting feed prices, poultry owners may need to get creative to keep costs down.

Two friends are creating a buzz with their ancient tipple

A honey obsession led a Canterbury beekeeper and his childhood friend to create an unorthodox golden libation picking up plenty of glittering gongs.

Recipe: Slow Roasted Lamb with Black Olives and Red Onion

Take roast lamb to new heights with a black olive, red onion and date crust.

The Northland homestead going viral with their cast of animal friends

From a small farm in Northland, a young couple have amassed a huge Instagram following by sharing down-to-earth content about their new rural life.

Why this Wellington man collects watches

Watches are worn for more reasons than timekeeping. Meet a collector who finds meaning in the ticking of a hand.

Spring inspiration for using up a garden lemon glut

How to take advantage of the abundance of spring lemons.

Recipe: Keto Sticky Asian Pork Belly

Serve this moreish sticky pork with rice or greens.

Recipe: Ham & Cheese Scrolls

A keto-friendly take on a bakery classic.

The Bay of Plenty ginkgo growers

While foraging ginkgo might be relatively easy, growing the trees for their nuts is notoriously difficult and expensive

The science behind the benefits of psychedelics

A favourable spotlight is being shone on psychedelic substances after decades of suppression. Why?

Forest foraging sees nature, art and cuisine collide for this Danish artist

Gathering ingredients from the bush is an art for this Scandinavian-born creative.

Searching for summer on the Sunshine Coast

After a summer without sun, a journey to Australia’s Sunshine Coast supplies a dose of the good stuff.

Recipe: Limoncello Spritz

Limoncello mixed with Prosecco and soda water, garnished with a sprig of honey-spiked rosemary — sunshine in a glass.

Why truffles could be a lifestyle block goldmine

With truffles worth up to $3,500 per kilogram, they could be the perfect money-maker for block owners with unproductive land.

How this Central Otago farm is mastering the art of prepping

They’re often viewed as extreme fanatics training for social collapse. But in light of recent events, are preppers just practising common sense?

Why you need to plant aloe vera this spring

It may seem too early to begin using this after-sun remedy, but now is the time to start growing the medicinal plant.

Why people love or hate the ginkgo nut

It’s infamous for the assaulting odour of its fruit, but the majestic and ancient ginkgo tree can be a forager’s shrine if properly understood.

The many pros of supporting the local grain economy

Why purchasing from other local growers will help your community food systems become as sufficient and diverse as possible.

Recipe: Turkish Leek Fritters

Even the kids will eat their leeks with this one.

The woman foraging her world from her Kāpiti Coast home

Collecting materials from the land is a way of life for one woman with a passion for sustainable, healthy living.

Nicola Galloway: The underrated delight of magnolia petals

Did you know you can eat magnolia petals? Nicola demonstrates two delicious (and pretty) ways to do so.

Tips for September garden success

Spring is finally here. Now the garden fun begins.

Four tips for a bee-friendly lawn

The best ways to attract valuable pollinators to your lifestyle block.

The community behind the preservation of a key scientific reserve

Waikanae Estuary Care Group volunteers have spent nearly 20 years protecting the area where the river meets the ocean.

What's On: Our September and October highlights

Events across the motu to bookmark this spring.

Meet the woman behind the best café in New Zealand

A Motueka café was recently named Best Café in New Zealand. Its creator wonders how it all happened.

Recipe: Ginger-Macerated Orange Salad with Brown Sugar Vanilla Labneh

An easy yet surprisingly sophisticated dessert that can be adapted to any soft fruit.

Common mistakes sheep-owners make

Sheep are some of the most popular lifestyle block animals, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t prone to problems.

Recipe: Greek Yoghurt with Granola, Fresh Fruit, Honey and Cinnamon

Making your own granola is always worth it.

Recipe: Indulgent white wine butter mussels with French fries

A deliciously indulgent take on a European classic.

Advice from a tree farmer

There are two types of trees: the ones you want to shelter, feed, protect, and warm you, and the trees you need to plant first.

Recipe: The Best Vegetarian Lasagne

Although lasagne recipes can be fiddly, there is a reason this cheesy delight is called ‘the best’.

Recipe: Tomato & Garlic Confit Soup with a Cheese Toastie

There is nothing more comforting than a big bowl of soup with some carbs on the side.

Award-winning designer Tracy Grant Lord in her element

Whether a touring opera or recounting a story over coffee... she always sets the scene.

Recipe: Premium Game Pulled Wild Goat Shoulder on Rye

Thick slices of rye bread support this tender, slow-cooked goat shoulder.

The catch with predator control

New research suggests predator control may need to be far more coordinated.

The 10 key principles of the Mediterranean diet

The ins-and-outs of one of the most popular culinary lifestyles in the world.

Recipe: Whitestone Cheese Windsor Blue Dip

The ultimate starter for the cheese-lovers in your life.

Six tips for when you’re laid low on your block

When illness and injury strikes, it can leave many critical duties up in the air.

DIY: Seed-Raising Tray

Have some pallets lying around? Transform them into a practical hub for your seeds to grow.

Recipe: Pastel de Pastor (Mexican-Style Shepherd's Pie)

When it’s cold outside, we always crave a shepherd’s pie — but with a bit of extra kick, right?

Nicola Galloway: Chocolate Almond Butter

Nicola makes her version of a decadent classic - chocolate spread.

An artist finds a unique way to rebuild her home after an earthquake

An artistic spark and a commitment to recycling helped Belinda Paton turn the ruins of her home into a creative sanctuary.

An expert's eye on firewood harvesting and storage

The ins-and-outs of keeping the best firewood for your homestead.

What’s On: ÉMILIE by Sophie Lindsay

Experience the NZ premiere of ÉMILIE at Auckland’s Q Theatre.

Recipe: Two delicious warming hot sauces

It's always helpful to have a couple of hot sauces on hand.

Recipe: Passionfruit Lamingtons

A modern, zingy take on the iconic Kiwi bakery treat.

Why eggs come in different colours

Pink, brown, green and blue – what is the science behind different eggshell colours?

Recipe: Fried Kina on Toast

Al Brown reimagines the classic kaimoana.

Eight herbs for your first aid cabinet

From battlefield balms to itchy-skin ointments, your garden has everything you need to make a handy first aid kit.

Recipe: Larb-Stuffed Kūmara with Crispy Shallots & Sticky Rice

Larb is traditionally made with ground meat, but this version uses tofu, and stuffing the larb into roasted whole kūmara makes it a filling main.

The couple bringing this historic Carterton home and garden into the modern era

One of the country’s leading gardens is entering a new phase in the hands of a Wellington lawyer and his design-focused partner.

Recipe: Cilbir Eggs with Curry Leaves & Saffron Yoghurt

The combination of creamy yoghurt, spiced butter and runny yolks is simple yet oh-so satisfying.

A food farm expert on the wonders of Jersey milk season

There’s a lot to be grateful for in August, but at The Food Farm the new season’s Jersey milk is the main event.

Dunedin cook Alby Hailes on mastering good vibes

We talk to Great Kiwi Bake Off champion Alby Hailes about his latest cookbook, Good Vibes.

Recipe: Lime, Apple & Poppy Seed Cake with Caramelised Coconut Topping

This cake is best served on the day of baking, but is still very delicious on all the days after.

The Wānaka clothing thrifter in love with slow fashion

An obsession with pre-loved fashion has set serial thrift-er Lydia Bishop on her feet.

The most helpful trees for the best hedge

For shelter and privacy, you can’t go past a good hedge. But as Hel Loader writes, some trees are better suited to the task than others.

For the love of the leek

While the leek is celebrated and valued overseas, it's often underrated in traditional New Zealand cuisine. Here’s how you can give it the respect it deserves.

Eight jobs to help your garden thrive in August

Getting through the end of winter means prepping for spring now.

Should you put a ring on your pig?

Most of us have only ever seen pigs with nose rings, but is it the best option?

A Gisborne family bringing eco-friendly wool to the masses

The market for strong wool has been in decline for decades. A family with 120-plus years in the trade is determined to reverse the fibre’s fortunes.

Two Blenheim brothers are changing the world of game

An award-winning peak-to-plate business run by two Marlborough brothers turns pests into prized cuisine, providing healthy protein for gourmets.

Q&A: Building your immunity with Dr Roderick Mulgan

Dr Mulgan has a particular interest in how lifestyle choices affect wellbeing.

Gordon Collier's latest gardening masterpiece

Pushing close to four score and 10 isn’t deterring this horticultural legend from developing a third significant garden.

Recipe: Mussels with Turmeric & Ginger Coconut Broth

Turmeric root provides a delicious earthy flavour; ginger adds warming heat in this aromatic broth.

Getting your livestock through winter

How to help your cattle and sheep get through the cold months.

How a vintage Beetle became one wife's great Christmas surprise

Don’t be fooled by the mild-mannered exterior of Alan Bekhuis’ 1970 Volkswagen Beetle.

Do you know the 'three sisters'?

They may grow into a tangled mess, but planting these “three sisters” together can yield an abundance of nutritious, storable food.

Polly Greeks: A winter's tale

After a rubbish summer, Polly falls in love with winter all over again.

Recipe: Pete’s Natural Currant Crush Cocktail

A blackcurrant spritzer described as “tasting like childhood” gets a grown-up twist with the addition of white spirits.

Dr Roderick Mulgan: Returning to the wild

Rewilding — or letting nature take care of itself — is a progressive approach to conservation.

11 mid-winter tasks for your garden

The frost may be settling, but that doesn't mean that the gardening takes a pause.

The Otago glamping haven hidden under tussocks

What was once a rocky outcrop used by shepherds is now the site of an off-grid retreat.

Recipe: Jam and Cream Doughnuts

Another old-school bakery vibe classic, but done so much better!

8 secrets to growing trees

The ins-and-outs from a tree farmer.

'Feed the stars': A feast suited to Matariki celebrations

The Food Farm celebrate Matariki with an offering of food to the stars.

Common mistakes alpaca-owners make

They might seem like easy-going fluff-faces, but alpacas require more care and attention than many owners realise.

What’s on: Our July and August highlights

Some of our favourite arts, music and theatre experiences happening across the motu this season.

Five tips for first-time lambing

With lifestyle block sales booming over the last two years, there’ll undoubtedly be some green sheep owners nervously facing their first-ever lambing.

In defense of the mighty cabbage

It may have a reputation for its limp texture and rank odour, but cabbage is a punchy superfood if prepared the right way.

The pineapple people of Northland

With a few hand tools and a love of growing, a Northland family has created a thriving plantation and sowed the seeds for a burgeoning community.

The Christchurch family going nuts for sustainable plant mylk

A Christchurch family is grinding away at a fresh solution to the plastic waste caused by plant-milk containers.

Making its mark: This Otago luxury hunting lodge has a unique offering

A South Island high-country farm is attracting high-value international tourists thanks to its growing reputation.

Make your own masa flour tortillas!

Growing your own maize makes this flour taste even more delicious.

A Sumner home with an unbeatable view

Undaunted by the pitfalls presented by a perilously steep slope, this Christchurch couple forged ahead anyway, seeing potential in the site — and that view.

Recipe: A Tiramisu Layer Cake fit for a celebration

Coffee and chocolate are the most delicious combination – add some booze and you can’t beat it.

4 unwanted visitors you might find in your coop

Sometimes the chicken coop can hold bad news.

Homemade herbal soothers for winter sniffles

Get on top of the seasonal croak with these common yet powerful garden herbs.

Recipe: Roasted Mushrooms with Prosciutto, Blue Cheese & Thyme

Little mouthfuls of joy that can be prepared in advance, ready to flash under the grill at the last moment.

This lush garden near Whanganui took 45 years to plant

She has the brains; he has the vision. Together, this couple has developed an extraordinary and surprising garden.

The delicious power of cauliflower

No boiling is needed – ever. How to get the best taste and texture from cauliflower.

The group protecting the Tamahunga Forest, one trap at a time

A community has rallied together to transform a corridor of forest north of Auckland.

How wiggly worms can help you assess soil health

One thing New Zealand isn’t short of is worms: the country has nearly 200 native earthworm species alone, although they mostly live in forests.

Eight Kiwi chefs reflect on the Edmonds legacy

Al Brown, Nadia Lim, Monique Fiso and more reflect on the role the iconic Edmonds cookbook had in their kitchens

Strength (in all areas) is the key to rowing success

Louise Storey’s role at Rowing New Zealand is to help the country's rowing elite cope with the pressure-cooker environment of high-performance sport.

Jack and Gill went up the Okitu Beach hill

A brother, his hard-working sister and their partners created a forest on a hillside above the Pacific Ocean.

A bug family's block life in Taranaki

Science, imagination, and sheer hard work have helped Aaron and Melissa Jacobson grow their dream life on a hilltop block in Taranaki.

3 common ways to wreck winter pasture

Even professional farmers are guilty of doing these, and you pay the price for years.

Nicola Galloway: An abundance of persimmons

The underrated fruit with an abundance of delicious uses.

3 weeds to watch for in winter

Keep an eye out for these pesky plants.

Recipe: Beef Cheeks with Eggplant (& Coriander Salsa Verde)

Cooked the right way, beef cheeks are so sticky and full of meaty deliciousness.

Secrets to growing great organic garlic

Growing garlic is a six month commitment of time, space, and work.

This chairman never forgets the legacies of those who came before him

Bayden Barber’s path to a significant tribal leadership role was inevitable, given the influence of his elders on his upbringing.

Tips for first-time pig owners

What you need to know if you've ever considered owning pigs.

Your gardening checklist for June

Winter is here, and there are tasks galore to fulfil.

How to launch a rat attack

Rats are clever, and controlling them takes a multi-pronged approach.

Polly Greeks: Itching for a solution

Zen has an explosive idea, while Polly festers with murderous intent.

Recipe: Green Pea & Orzo Soup

This delicious hearty green pea and orzo soup is perfect for lunches and dinners this winter.

Recipe: Green Thai Chicken Filos

Layers of crisp filo encase a creamy curry filling.

Nicola Galloway: Caramel Baked Apples

Nicola makes the epitome of a cosy autumn dessert.

The inspiring power of walking every day

A committed group of walkers, clocking up an average of 3.3 kilometres a day, are noting the health benefits.

Recipe: Winter Greens with Creamy Citrus Dressing

Bitter, crunchy greens are an excellent foil to a risotto’s richness.

How to save thousands when you’re going off-grid

The beauty of going off-grid is no more power bills, but there are ways to save on the setup too.

Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Stack

This makes a great vegetarian evening meal.

Pluck of the Irish: An Otago winemaking legend's latest project

The man often referred to as the godfather of Central Otago wine is still chasing the perfect pinot well into his 80s.

9 things you need to know about combs

The appearance of a chicken’s comb can tell you a lot about how it's feeling.

Dinner party tips from author Sue Heazlewood

The author of A Table at Tangleby and A Table at Tangleby II talks to us about her love for her kitchen and garden.

Recipe: Fig & Hazelnut Salami

Watch the people who usually decline dessert reach for another slice.

Dr Roderick Mulgan: Here we go again

Welcome to the brave new world of perpetual pandemics.

How to grow bigger meat birds using wholegrains

Adding wholegrains to chicken feed boosts meat production efficiency.

Bruce Topp’s British rogue is the perfect fit

The Jensen Interceptor was the dream of someone who wanted something a bit different. Bruce Topp is that someone.

4 things to know about good wood

Why size matters, why feeding technique is crucial, and other good wood tips.

A solid solution to eco-friendly dental hygiene

A Tītahi Bay start-up is bringing sustainable toothpaste to the masses, cancelling out plastic tubes in the process.

Legendary environmental activist's latest (tiny) project

Tiny forest plantings are gaining international momentum and being promoted by one of the country’s most enduring eco-warriors.

The best firewood trees, according to a forester

Eric Cairns has dedicated his life to growing trees. Here’s his advice for block owners who want to produce a good firewood supply.

5 mushrooms to forage in autumn

Wild mushroom foraging takes time and patience, but the reward of finding delicious edible fungi is priceless.

The power of the pumpkin

Pumpkins tend to be either soup or roasted, but they're also fabulous in scones and pie.

Recipe: Oven-Baked Risotto with Red Wine & Roasted Beetroot

A risotto designed for hosts who prefer not to stand at the stove — the oven does nearly all the work.

7 things to know about natural worm control

Many people prefer to use natural health strategies for their livestock, but there’s a lot of misinformation on what works, and what doesn't.

What happens after the pine trees go

Cleaning up the mess left behind after you harvest a stand of pine trees.

The journey of these rock stars from Te Hūpēnui

It takes a village to raise a child, and it turns out a village can also help four young growers in a time of disaster to start a community-minded business.

Collingwood is a treasure trove of sunny delights

The road to Tākaka is one of Tasman’s less travelled, and the road past that town to Collingwood even less so.

One Palmerston North butchery produces two champion-worthy products

Sustainability drives the butchery business of these patty-makers from Palmy.

Why the crayfish should be a celebrated cuisine

A passionate duo from Tora Bay is serving up kaimoana fit for king.

This couple knows how to make the perfect soda

A berry good drink made from Nelson’s finest crops is also giving local growers a sweet deal.

Ten essential tasks for your May garden

Late autumn is the perfect time to get these tasks done.

Recipe: Pumpkin, Parmesan & Thyme Scones

If you struggle to get light, fluffy scones, this is the recipe for you – it always works.

A call to leadership took this wāhine back to the ahi kaa

With Taranaki Maunga physically at her back and spiritually guiding her, Paula Carr is contributing to her Ngāruahine iwi with innovative ideas and by connecting people.

Weird science took this blue cheese to the next level

Whitestone Cheese struck gold when going deep into cheesemaking.

A sweet treat by a qualified gelato fanatic won the judges’ hearts

A boutique gelato business has scooped a win for its creamy dessert made without cream

The Radon family are farming and crafting in paradise

Antonia and Mike Radon farm pāua, sheep and cattle, grow pearls, host visitors and sell jewellery to tourists in Whekenui Bay, Marlborough Sounds.

Recipe: Pinoli Lemon & Pine Nut Tart

The combination of lemon and pine nuts in this sweet tart is a classic.

Pinoli Pine Nuts crowned ONZFPA supreme champion

Results are in and congratulations are in order for the local growers.

Gorse: friend or foe?

People tend to have strong opinions about gorse, but there are two sides to this prickly plant, and Nelson Lebo has found a way to make peace with it.

How to light your (clean) fire

A good fire can be clean, if you get a few fundamentals right.

3 signs of facial eczema in your livestock

Keep your livestock healthy this summer and autumn.

A Kaitake distillery never short of brilliant ideas

A rum maker’s entrepreneurial spirit extends to giving others a hand-up.

Recipe: Feijoa and Hempseed Cake

An indulgent way to enjoy feijoa season.

Recipe: Challah

A classic loaf best eaten on the day it's made.

Why Petra Galler calls herself a kitchen 'cowboy'

thisNZlife talks to the renowned pastry chef about her latest book.

Why did the chicken cross the road?

New research shows it’s probably because it was daring, but a bit dim.

Recipe: Butternut Cappellacci

A cosy yet gourmet autumn pasta dish.

A Q&A with Nostrana author Bri DiMattina

We ask home gardener and trained chef Bri DiMattina about her colourful new cookbook.

Block inspiration: A beautifully-crafted chicken coop in Mexico

A practical, open air coop is also sculpture on a unique farm.

Nicola Galloway: Time to sprout

With fresh produce prices higher than ever, is it time to return to good old sprouting?

The healing powers of a hiking holiday in the Canary Islands

A walking holiday on the island of La Palma reconnects two couples separated not by distance, but by mental illness.

Recipe: Blood Orange Afghans with Smoked Chocolate Icing

This version of the popular Kiwi bikkie has a zesty twist.

Recipe: Uber Crispy Chicken with Fennel Slaw

Takeaways will be a thing of the past once you master this chicken.

The Trade Me find that resulted in this man's dream car

Guy Hilson can blame it on The Saint. The stylish and charming television character drove a sporty Volvo, so why shouldn't Guy?

Meet the block owners with 14 hectares dedicated to regeneration

This Bay of Plenty block is designed around improving the health of the planet.

Recipe: Smoked Chilli Kūmara Chips

Smoked chilli flakes are the secret ingredient for these delish chips.

The Taranaki woman sharing her passion for parenting

Even as a pre-teen, this parenting expert knew what she’d do when she had children. And now she shares her knowledge with many others

Walking in the footsteps of Aussie history

Following the path of one of Australia’s most tragic historical journeys comes with insights and challenges.

Recipe: Savoy Slaw with Currants & Pine Nuts

This salad has the perfect level of crunch.

Dr Roderick Mulgan: John Snow's epidemiological legacy

A calculated guess by a doctor nearly two centuries ago continues to influence the world today.

From rugby journo to lawn bowls aficionado

The sedate setting of a lawn bowls rink is a world away from rugby grounds.

How mise en place can help your place

A French cooking technique can help you get more done with less hassle on your block.

Seedlings and sowing: Your April gardening roster

It's time to sow new crops and encourage the last of the old ones.

Polly Greeks: An affliction of comparison

Polly turns to gratitude when infected with a dose of the “comparisons”.

The electric-operated Cromwell orchard changing the game

After proving he could run a cherry orchard without burning a single fossil fuel, Mike Casey is keen to move other growers towards electric tech.

The mystery of the lumpy lamb

A little lamb has a very big lump, and a mystery cause.

Ever heard of Esperanto?

A way with words has coloured the career of this Wellington polyglot.

6 warming recipes we'll be making this autumn

The season of cuddling up with a comforting dish is finally upon us.

Recipe: Spiced Pears & Figs in Red Wine

Easy to make in advance, the cooked pears can be chilled in the spiced red wine until just before serving.

A writer explores a different side of Fiji travel

Far-removed from Fiji’s holiday hotspots, a trekking business owned by locals showcases remote villages, mountains and grasslands

Recipe: Easy Oven-Baked Polenta

Love polenta but hate standing and stirring it over a hot stove? This hands-free method is the answer.

Behind this unique home is a years-long childhood dream

An old railway carriage, named Primrose because of the flower’s association with love, renewal and optimism, has found a new home on a hillside overlooking the sea.

Recipe: Toasted Walnut & Blue Cheese Crostini

A light and creamy (yet moreish) snack.

5 of New Zealand's quaintest towns

Enjoy a slower pace of life in some of New Zealand’s quaintest towns and villages, where one-of-a-kind shops, pretty architecture and scenic adventures take centre stage.

Award-winning Northland salt is so good you only need a pinch

Seawater and sun are all James Moore needs to create his mineral-rich products.

4 things you might not know about hedgehogs

The critter has a pretty significant impact in New Zealand.

How to protect your flock from autumnal pests

Planning for common pest problems is crucial.

5 things to know about building a container house

A used shipping container has travelled the equivalent of a trip to the moon and back, and is still tough enough to become a dream house.

An expert's secret to the best dried fruit

When the harvest is big, but you’re not a fan of making jam or chomping fruit leathers, try this method for the perfect bite.

How this 1929 Model A Ford found its way home

Some people get socks for their birthday; the owner of this Model A Ford was gifted an automotive classic.

Why you don't want an ostrich on your block

Treating unusual species is a regular occurrence for a lifestyle block vet, and this one had a big problem.

4 recipes to utilise your summer capsicum bounty

Turn a glut of capsicums into a selection of addictive spicy sauces that will add flavour to your meals all year.

Under the sea: Diving with sharks in Western Australia

Our art director heads out for a close encounter with the behemoths of Ningaloo Reef.

The secret behind this delicious liquid gold

A weekend hobby led a couple to create an award-winning range of drinking chocolates from minimal ingredients.

An inspiring maximalist expresses herself through colour

The colourful and ordered home of a university librarian belies the chaos of her insatiable curiosity and the challenge of discovering her tikanga.

"We removed the cow": The high protein vegan jerky catering to flexitarians

Off-Piste founder Jade Gray says its products are 100 per cent plants, 45 per cent protein and zero per cent “BS”.

Ngāti Kurī chair Harry Burkhardt is people-focused

With Ngāti Kurī and Swiss whakapapa, Henri Jacques Burkhardt, aka Harry, has come into his tribal leadership role occupying “grey spaces”.

Why the tomato is this small-scale farmer’s greatest success

Angela Clifford shares wisdom from her family's organic, permaculture-based, self-sufficient small farm.

Recipe: Chocolate, Rosemary & Blueberry Cake

A no-fuss, easy-to-make, blueberry-chia seed jam fills this unique cake.

Why your cooked chicken may not be done

Research into home cooking chicken shows you need to dig deeper to ensure it's safe to eat.

Polly Greeks: An unwanted flatmate

“Stuff” moves in on Polly and Co, requiring a herculean effort (and a clipboard) to knock it into submission.

Step inside the secluded world of Lavericks Bay

Seven generations of one family have loved Lavericks Bay life, and now visitors can also enjoy the many charms of this secluded sheep farm.

9 garden tasks for the autumnal weather ahead

Time for your garden to say hello to the cooler weather.

Golf-course design has taken this Kiwi all over the world

Kristine Kerr became the first female member in the history of the Australian Society of Golf Course Architects when inducted in 2010.

9 protein-packed treats for your chooks

Poultry need specific amino acids in protein to be healthy. Here are nine easy ways to enrich their diet.

Recipe: Celia’s Ciabatta

This classic loaf will always be a hit.

Recipe: Celia's Portuguese Chicken with Roast Lemons

A homely dish that can be enjoyed on warmer or colder nights.

A practical pair build a home in Pahoia

He is good at building things; she is clever in the garden. The home and life they’ve built together are outward-focused, expansive and rewarding.

The regenerative track getting the royal treatment

What started as a retirement dream grew into a passion project to nurture and protect a native forest for future generations.

Recipe: Mixed Mushroom Ragù with Parmesan & Parsley Gremolata

Use a combination of mushrooms — from cute baby buttons to meaty portobellos.

This West Coast woman is finding the adventure in every day

Young mother Renee Cadigan is developing a self-sufficient life and teaching her boys valuable life skills at the same time.

A Kiwi diver shares the hard work behind the quick dive

Diving is a study in time and motion, breath-taking synchronicity of mind and body. The aim, as always, is perfection.

Be in to win one of three copies of Gordon Collier’s 3 Gardens, valued at $59.99 each

Be in to win one of three copies of Gordon Collier’s 3 Gardens, valued at $59.99 each.

Recipe: Blueberry Sorbet

Sorbet is a simple, healthier version of ice cream and works really well with berries.

How this couple made a perfect retro caravan road-ready

Hundreds of old-school caravans have been restored and returned to the roads in recent years. Each reflects the personality of its owner in a kaleidoscope of ways — and is infinitely interesting for it.

Be in to win one of three Foundry Chocolate prize packs, valued at $77 each

Be in to win one of three Foundry Chocolate prize packs, valued at $77 each

Recipe: A pomegranate-packed Mediterranean-inspired salad

A Mediterranean-inspired salad packed full of herbs and root veggies.

The yacht gracing Auckland's waters for nearly 90 years

One of the world’s largest one-day regatta fleets sets sail every Auckland Anniversary Day.

Recipe: Thick & Creamy Corn Chowder with a hint of Thai

This is a corn chowder like no other.

How do you practice regenerative agriculture strategies on a block?

Culture farmer Nelson Lebo shares the practical ways he uses it on his 5.1ha block near Whanganui.

Be in to win one of four tea-and-honey pairing gift boxes from J. Friend & Co, valued at $45 each

Be in to win one of four tea-and-honey pairing gift boxes from J. Friend & Co, valued at $45 each.

Recipe: Savoury Breakfast Platter

This is a great breakfast combination for sharing.

Recipe: Gado Gado Baked Kūmara with Peanut Satay

This is an excellent fusion of a traditional baked kūmara and a lovely Indonesian dish.

Why mushrooms are more useful in your garden than you think

A world of fungi is transforming the soil in this self-sufficient garden.

Dunedin Craft Distillers: From discarded bread to premium gin

Two Dunedin women found a clever and tasty solution to help combat food waste: they raise spirits from bread.

Design couple find work and life balance their resort-like home and office

Many hours of hard work have driven a designing couple to great career heights. It helps that they like each other — a lot.

Recipe: Raspberry Lamington Cake

This lamington cake recipe takes the Kiwi baking classic to the next level.

4 common things that can go wrong with your ride-on

Ride-on mowers are easy to use, but they’re also sophisticated pieces of machinery.

How three Whakatāne invented mānuka honey-infused liquid sunshine

Mix some Māori boys with mānuka honey and sparkling water and the result is a young business showing effervescent results.

Picking your own 'slow flowers' in Matakana

An avid gardener has turned her passion for flowers into a unique block business that shares the love with everyone.

A collector brightens her days with vintage décor and dresses

Despite managing a rare — and sometimes debilitating — illness, Natalie Robinson-Tantin is an active participant in a world she’s designed with living colour.

Recipe: No-Churn Strawberry & Fresh Mint Ice Cream

This is a cheat’s ice cream that uses condensed milk and whipped cream instead of a traditional custard base.

Why you should consider the gut health of your chickens

Probiotics can benefit your birds from birth, helping them to grow faster and preventing diseases.

Is it pampas or toetoe?

Those fluffy fronds on the side of the road may look pretty, but they are actually weeds.

Recipe: Elderflower Fritters (Pancakes)

A sweet and crispy way to enjoy your harvested elderflower.

Recipe: Roasted Beans with Toasted Seeds

A super-simple and super-delicious addition to your Christmas lunch.

Recipe: Barbecued Lamb Neck Fillet on a Rye Baguette

This recipe serves 4, but it's so good you'll want to eat it all yourself.

4 ways to fight mites on chickens

Oils and jellies that can prevent your chooks from getting mites.

Recipe: Hot Rainbow Chard Salad with Crispy Roasted Garlic Skins

A colourful and warm salad to enjoy for a light lunch, or as a delicious side.

A coop that's the epitome of summer-ready

When summer is really hot, a Tucson coop with the right angles is still a cool place.

Recipe: Confetti Salad

Chop, chop! Making this salad is a meditative task for busy minds.

13 showstopping desserts for your Christmas table

Stumped on your Christmas centrepiece? Try one of these decadent treats.

How to make weaning go smoothly

When and how to safely wean young livestock.

Why a bed-and-breakfast was the first addition on this family's block

The man who created one of the toughest endurance races in NZ is enjoying a marathon clean-up and new challenges on his Rotorua block.

Recipe: Elote

This simple Mexican street food dish transforms basic BBQ corn cobs into a delicious delight.

Recipe: Elderflower Marmalade

Elderflower cordial and lemons make a mean marmalade.

Recipe: Lemon Cake with White Chocolate Elderflower Ganache

A light and lovely cake perfect for morning tea.

Recipe: Strawberry, Baby Basil & Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini

These canapés are little bursts of red, white and green.

How to forage, harvest and use elderflower

Large, lacy, creamy white clusters of elderberry flowers are a pretty sight and a delicious find.

Polly Greeks: On life and death

Polly shines her light on the cycle of life.

Plants and green-thumbed friends help Lynda Hallinan's garden thrive

Two keen country gardeners share a friendly rivalry over flowers, foliage and finding ways to foil rabbits.

Two indigenous wāhine preserving their cultures

As part of her multimedia movement Nuku, journalist and author Qiane Matata-Sipu amplifies the voices of indigenous wāhine. Two women share their stories.

How you can transform an old, cold country house

Transforming an old, cold home into one with a much greener footprint is a slow but satisfying, cost-effective DIY project.

Should you believe what a chicken 'expert' is telling you?

Navigate the plethora of suggestions and pick out what's right and wrong for your chooks.

Recipe: Buffalo Yoghurt Cheesecake

If you love a rich, silky-smooth cheesecake, then this is the dessert for you.

Why David Trubridge's muse is Mother Nature herself

Many artists spend their entire lives searching for inspiration. But for David Trubridge, the natural world has everything he could need.

How to spruce up your end-of-year garden

The end of the year may be upon us, but there is still plenty to do.

Recipe: Lemon & Raspberry Zuccotto

Here’s a tangy, fruity take on the Italian classic, designed to keep the cook stress-free.

Why Oliver Hoffmann has weeded every day for 30 years

An after-work weeding habit has grown into a 30-year retaliation against Auckland’s peskiest pests.

Recipe: Garden Green Hummus

This is a lovely way to sneak some more greens into your diet, especially if you have kids who aren’t so keen on salads.

Recipe: Strawberry, Ginger & Thyme Shrub

A beautiful, fizzy mocktail you can make with frozen or fresh strawberries.

Meet Naseby's multi-generational family of peony growers

An export peony business in Naseby delivers floral cheer to the likes of Hollywood royalty and familial riches to its multi-generational ranks.

10 things you need to know about going off-grid

Is going off the grid the best decision? It can be a complicated question, especially if you’re already connected to the grid.

4 natural poultry ‘remedies’ that aren’t proven by science

A poultry specialist debunks myths about natural products for chicken health.

How to make your own beeswax wraps

Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to clingwrap to cover food and keep it fresh. They can be made at home easily using wax chips, pine rosin and a few household tools.

A conservatory and tiny house filled with tropical greenery

These two houseplant devotees find calmness and joy from decorating their spaces with flora.

Recipe: Roasted Baby Carrots & Radishes

Impossibly cute, ridiculously easy, impressively tasty.

Making perfume the Victorian way in Wellington

Forester by training, teacher by career, Francesco van Eerd found his true calling distilling, blending and selling perfumes with fragrant Victorian flair.

Recipe: Spinach Crêpes with Creamy Mushrooms

Get your brunch on with plant-based creamy crêpes.

Ways to make your November garden flourish

The warming weather allows for plenty to do in your garden this month.

What’s On: Our November and December highlights

Plan your end-of-year activities accordingly.

Recipe: Rosemary & Cinnamon-Rubbed Lamb Chops

Bright baby beetroot glow like Christmas baubles in this simple all-in-one dish.

Father and son live large in a tiny home at Tai Tapu

Tiny-home living isn’t just for the green-minded. According to a Christchurch dad, it’s the perfect playground for a father and son.

10 dishes to put a spring in your step

Nothing beats fresh goods and the many dishes you can conjure up with them.

James Brown left early retirement to work for his iwi

Self-taught builder James Brown focused on his tribal leadership role while strengthening his community to withstand the challenges of treaty negotiations.

Recipe: Raspberry Chocolate Crumble Slice

If you can’t decide whether you want something fruity or chocolatey, this is a delicious solution.

A respected broadcaster becomes a law-firm partner

A once-familiar face and voice across the nation, Linda Clark is now more likely to appear in court than on the television news, having swapped the world of journalism for the law.

How to find the perfect ride-on mower

They all mow grass, but there’s a science to finding the right one for your lawn.

Recipe: Fennel-Poached Salmon

This is a fool-proof way to cook salmon; the results can be eaten warm from the pan or cold.

What to learn from dead chickens

In a large flock, a sudden death rate above 2% is of great concern. But it can be far more challenging for small flock owners when one dead hen equals a 10% death rate.

How to look out for your sheep's pain cues

Sheep can’t speak, but you can learn to see what they're telling you.

Recipe: Grilled Asparagus with Halloumi, Mandarin Dressing & Honeyed Almonds

Asparagus and halloumi are a match made in heaven.

It took three generations to break this family's cream-liqueur curse

An infatuation with cream liqueur has resulted in a remarkable family saga — one starting with failure and ending in sweet, sweet victory.

Recipe: Warm Roasted Cauliflower Salad

Salty chickpeas sing with sweet roasted cauliflower in this hearty vegetarian dish.

Recipe: Oat and Zucchini Pantry Cookies

Chances are you already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen.

A life — and home — designed around a vintage fleet of cars

Auckland’s Kawakawa Bay is home to a growing collection of notable classics.

Words of wisdom from the man behind this magical Upper Moutere garden

After 40-plus years of developing a large property, Michael Edwardes is beginning to recognize that he is more than okay at this gardening business.

How to improve your pasture for free

Deferred grazing is an easy way to rejuvenate pasture.

5 ways to cook with shiso

This herb is both easy to grow and a delicious addition to your cooking roster.

Don't headbutt a goat

Some goats have horns, some have none, and some fall in between.

Recipe: Topsy-Turvy Rhubarb & Almond Cake

Make the most of the last of the rhubarb with this fragrant cake, perfect with a cup of coffee.

Lynda Hallinan embraces nature's stubbornness

‘I go to nature to be soothe and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more,’ wrote John Burroughs. Somewhere in Hunua, the owner of Foggydale Farm is rolling her eyes.

Dave Gibson becomes an e-bike convert — and thinks all Kiwis should too

A television and film producer moves south to be with his partner and practises semi-retirement by starting an e-bike festival.

5 ways to soak up the Marlborough Sounds in a day

There’s nothing quite like a mosey through Marlborough’s majestic sea-drowned valleys on a gloriously sunny day.

The lowdown on withholding periods for your chooks

Withholding periods – where you can’t eat the eggs or meat of poultry dosed with medication or drench – are often misunderstood and crucial for human health.

Recipe: Ginger Syrup

This ginger syrup is a staple that can be used in an abundance of delicious ways.

Lessons from a small-but-mighty block in Ohoka

With a block smaller than a hectare, this Ohoka couple have definitely spent 20 years making the most of their space.

What the best farmers do to manage their stock

What you can learn from NZ’s highest-performing sheep and beef farmers.

Olympian Eliza McCartney's leaping for the stars

Pole vaulting requires energy, endurance, timing, technique, strength and control. According to Olympian Eliza McCartney, it’s also fun.

How to save precious hours on your lifestyle block

The most important resource on your lifestyle block is your time, so it's important to spend it wisely.

Recipe: Spring Salad of Quinoa, Green Lentils, Broad Beans, Lemon & Greens

This protein-packed salad is packed full of all the good stuff.

The must-have herb for your edible garden

This gorgeous herb can revolutionise the flavour of the simplest salad, and is a staple ingredient if you love Japanese and Korean dishes.

Recipe: Broccoli & Pumpkin-Seed Pesto Pasta

A cheesy, garlicky, herby pasta that makes the most of an entire head of broccoli, stalk and all.

DIY: How to make a willow wreath

Craft a pretty spring wreath from bendy stems.

How to grow the radishes of your dreams

Ruby-red or pearl-like, every kind of radish is a veggie patch necessity.

How to beat superworms

Why superworms are outsmarting drench & what to do about it.

The oldest-ever police graduate proves it's never too late to switch careers

It took Lynda Perry 40 years to realize her dream of joining the police, but it’s been worth the wait.

From apple orchard to art-filled arboretum

Five generations of the Blundell family have made their home at Riverhaven in Clevedon, south-east of Auckland, first as farmers, then orchardists, and now artists.

A retiree turns a weed infestation into a bush track in Russell

A stroll a day keeps the weeds at bay along this walkway, created by two retirees in the Bay of Islands.

Meet the oak-tree hunters of Aotearoa

A passionate group are hunting for Aotearoa’s most magnificent oak trees to make sure we can all share the love.

Why threats to bugs should be taken seriously

Insect numbers have declined shockingly in recent years. But perhaps the biggest problem is that most of the world doesn’t realize how alarming this is.

Recipe: Shaved Pumpkin, Pink Pickled Onions, Celery & Spinach Salad

This bright, punchy salad is an excellent counterpart to any heavy dish.

A competitive fisher is angling for more women to try fly fishing

Rachel McNae is playing a lead role in encouraging women to tie flies, step into their waders and go fishing.

Your spring gardening checklist this September

Say goodbye to dreary winter days, and hello to a garden ready to bloom into spring.

Recipe: Lynda Hallinan's Marmalade Mulled Wine

The end-of-season abundance of citrus is ideal for this mulled wine.

Meet the creative couple behind Waiheke's largest mudbrick home

She is an artist, he has grand ideas; a couple so enamoured with bringing beauty to the world has transformed a Waiheke hillside into an earth-brick masterpiece.

A couple creates a kiwi haven and bush walk on their farm

One couple’s work in making a kiwi-safe habitat near the Kaipara Harbour has grown into a project to create an ecological corridor so north island brown kiwi can move safely from coast to coast.

How to curate your animal's first aid kit

How to create a first aid kit to get you through labour this spring.

Recipe: Chocolate Puddings with Smoked Salt

Chocolate lovers will adore this silky yet simple chocolate pudding.

How this Kakanui craftsman is reviving the art of handmade goods

A craftsman working in stone, iron and wood channels his Celtic forebears and takes his time to make everything look just so.

Everything to know about colostrum

The very first drink your newborn animals have are the most important of their lives.

This 1967 Mustang braved the high seas for the roadie life in Aotearoa

When a rare Mustang, based in Florida, catches the eye of an Auckland woman, she moves heaven and earth to park up the pony at home.

Should you raise guinea fowl?

It may be unsightly, slow-witted and produce an intolerable noise, but the guinea fowl is a useful addition to any lifestyle block.

Recipe: Backyard Grapefruit Spritzer

Pretend it's summer for a fleeting moment with this refreshing spritzer.

Recipe: Roasted Butternut & Orange Soup with Feta

Ordinary pumpkin can be substituted for butternut in this soup, depending on availability.

From beef farmer to earthworm warrior

There’s an art to the science of regenerative farming and it has turned this conventionally-trained farmer into an earthworm warrior.

A Hawke's Bay couple's marinated goat cheese wins again

Annie and Geoff Nieuwenhuis have their hands in the clouds and their hearts on the farm. The love for their goat cheese is so true, it earned them the title of 2022 Dairy Champion.

How to hatch the best eggs

If you want happy, healthy chicks, it starts with choosing the best eggs.

The Bostock Brothers know what they're doing when it comes to chooks

Doing things differently is paying off — again — for a Hawke’s Bay chicken farm.

Tips and tricks for your garden this August

The final days of winter are upon us, and with it comes flourishing daffodils and a list of tasks to keep you buzzing around the garden.

The Kiwi company changing the way we get rid of our gadgets

We throw out a mountain of electronics each year, but new recycling technology could help build a circular economy for more sustainable gadgets.

8 reasons why you should plant a hedgerow

A hedgerow is an old-fashioned way to feed yourself and your livestock, and create valuable habitat.

This sick little piggy stayed home — and survived

The fight to save teeny, tiny Sadie-Baby.

A Canterbury producer brings raw honeycomb to the masses

No two versions of this untouched honey will be the same — and that’s just how the makers like it. J. Friend & Co is the 2022 champion of the 'Earth' Category.

7 Airbnb lessons from block owners in Rotorua

Nestled away on a Rotorua lifestyle block, Wildberry Cottage is a Scandinavian-inspired Airbnb that has taught Paul Charteris many lessons.

A cyclist finds simple pleasures in exploring Auckland on two wheels

An ordinary bike ride turns into an extraordinary lesson on living in the present.

Recipe: Orange & Cinnamon Tart

A warm, zesty dessert that your dinner party will eat in one go.

How Donna Ngaronoa Gardiner is helping future generations

Ngāti Ranginui chair Donna Ngaronoa Gardiner focuses her leadership on common iwi goals within Tauranga Moana so future generations can grow and strengthen their connections.

From chocolate hoarding to constructing a sweet empire in the Southern Lakes

An Argentinian couple built a chocolate business in the Southern Lakes out of a deep longing for the tastes of their childhood.

Recipe: Almond Cheesecake in a Jar

Once you try this delicious almond cheesecake, there's no going back.

Is my chick a male or female?

It is almost impossible to tell if a chick is male or female at hatching.

Family is Middlehurst Delivered's secret ingredient

The McDonald clan of Middlehurst Delivered is devoted to bringing a taste of their home to your place.

This Gisborne orchard's award-winning orange juice is summer in a bottle

Squeezy does it for this family-owned Gisborne orchard, who took home the 2022 Drink Champion award for their orange juice.

Inside an otherworldly chicken coop that lights up over winter

This unusual coop is also a feature of the landscape at night.

Recipe: Homemade Kimchi

Forget about buying an overpriced jar at the supermarket. Homemade kimchi is easier than you think.

The ultimate guide to pruning your fruit trees

The good news is poor pruning is like a bad haircut – it will grow out.

Ruanui Station is a tight-knit family affair

Farming life is changing rapidly. But for this Rangitīkei family, the land still has an incredible tug.

Explore this glam hangar-home hybrid in mid-Canterbury

A pampered plane lets its devoted humans share its fancy hangar on a high-country station in mid-Canterbury.

Clayton McMillan on leading the Chiefs by example

Professional rugby isn’t only about what happens on match day; personal development is an essential part of the modern game.

Lynda Hallinan's teeny, treasure-filled cottage

Lynda Hallinan finds her happy place in a tiny house decorated with op-shop treasures, an abundance of plants and hues of green.

Your mid-winter gardening checklist

July is an ideal time to keep tasks ticking along, from planting garlic to sprouting early seed potatoes.

Recipe: Mushroom-Glazed Rump Steak

Steak and mushrooms are a winning combo anytime. Michael Van de Elzen's take on them is the ultimate winter warmer.

6 highlights and hidden gems in South Westland

South Westland is epic in size and majestically beautiful. It’s also one of only three places on earth where tectonic plates collide above sea level.

This film producer's favourite scene is his heritage villa in Hawke's Bay

Of all the far-flung places this couple has been — and film sets they’ve seen — a heritage villa in rural Hawke’s Bay is the showstopper that surpasses them all.

The Waikato trust creating space in sport for women

A Sport Waikato initiative is helping females of all ages to feel comfortable about their bodies and encouraging them to be active.

How to control rabbits and rats

It's the best time of year to start controlling two annoying pests, before they start breeding again in spring.

5 tips for growing bananas in your backyard

Banana plants grow widely across New Zealand and even where they can’t bear fruit, they have plenty of other uses.

The Chinese woman pushing for a multicultural approach to conservation

Estella Lee is inspiring Auckland’s Chinese community to become more involved in conservation.

Recipe: Goat Cheese Gnocchi with Broccoli Pesto

Blessed are Aotearoa’s goat-cheese makers and goat milkers, for their products turn this rustic Italian dish (inspired by the great Marcella Hazan) into something extraordinary.

Recipe: Baked White Beans with Herbed Breadcrumbs

If you’re planning a warming winter dinner for people who don’t eat meat, this multi-textured bake is a great option, served with something green on the side.

8 ways to give your fence a refresh

Good fences will only stay that way with regular maintenance.

A beginner’s guide to breeding your dream sheep

A healthy, hardy, delicious flock comes down to one key choice.

From busy farm to a breezy seaside paradise

Christopher and Susanna Grace, both well-known in the farming and horseracing industries, downsized when they moved from their Hunterville farm to the Kāpiti Coast. But they continue to live as if just out of the starting gates.

From orchardist to organic vinegar maker

From organic apples to apple cider vinegar, an Ōtaki business has had a common-sense evolution. The progression from vinegar-maker father to daughter is just as logical.

This solar-powered coop spreads its wings daily

Looking for the perfect chicken coop design? You can find both inspiration and envy in this one.

What to do when your chook breaks a nail

It happens to all of us – here's how to deal with your chook losing a nail.

Why you should test your soil this autumn

You can pay for a professional soil test, or assess it yourself with some close observation.

The culinary journey of chef Monica Galetti

Monica Galetti’s tastes were awakened by the fresh fruit and seafood of Samoa, then sweetened on the processed delights of 1980s Wellington. Now one of Britain's leading chefs, she’s wowing visitors with a dash of Pacific passion at her London restaurant, Mere.

Recipe: Chicken Salad with Tomato Kasundi

This chicken dish is perfect for summer gatherings, plus the leftovers are just as delicious in a sandwich.

Stalking and saving the banded dotterel in Kaikōura

A Kaikōura couple finds their purpose in stalking — and saving — the banded dotterel. They’ve been winging it for seven years.

Freeze-dried honey: Spinning liquid gold into meringue-like chunks

Ancient trees and modern technology are a winning combination for Chatham Island apiculturists Kaai Silbery and Francesca Bonventre.

Prepare your farm for the colder months ahead

Before the winter chill settles in, make sure you and your farm are well-equipped with this handy checklist.

The gutsy little Fiat that could

It's been reworked, rebuilt, re-engineered and re-imagined, but this little car has retained its big heart.

Quick tips for your best-ever June garden

Sow, plant, and compost your way to a bountiful winter garden.

Volunteer calls companionship 'therapeutic as a drug'

A hospital volunteer discovers a good yarn can be as therapeutic as medicine — for patients and himself alike.

4 bugs you might see this winter

Some creepy crawlies might invade your home this winter, while others are accidental visitors.

Add the Coastal Arts Trail to your next road trip

A new arts trail, weaving through three neighbouring regions — Taranaki, Whanganui and the Manawatū — offers a cross-district road trip full of colour, characters and inspiration.

Life lessons from this fantastical garden at Lake Wakatipu

Thomas Schneider’s whimsical approach to significant issues results in a profusion of sculptures and statues, flowers and trees, animals and birds, and all critters — great and small.

Recipe: Chocolate Pots with Coffee-Banana Biscotti

The best thing about this dessert recipe? It can be as elaborate or as simple as you like.

Lynda Hallinan is all fired up for cooler weather

Lynda Hallinan looks forward to the 'ritual annual catharsis of combustion' every autumn.

The dual life of Taranaki singer-songwriter VGB

This Taranaki singer-songwriter writes her own rules for thriving in Aotearoa’s competitive music scene.

500g of veggies go into each bag of this plant-based mince

Seeking a plant-based mince to serve at their café, a Whangārei couple came up with a just-add-water version that tastes as good as it looks.

Why clean water is the key to healthy birds

Water is the number one nutrient for poultry, and it's crucial to keep it clean.

A doctor weighs in on plants vs meat

Should we eat animals? Many voices say food from plants is enough. So who is right? Dr Roderick Mulgan ponders the important questions.

4 things about firewood for a cosy winter

Knowing your hardwoods from your softwoods makes a big difference.

9 tasty wild-game and fish recipes

Make the most of your wild game and fish with these nine recipes.

Recipe: Rabbit, Leek & Mushroom Pie

This moreish pie can use rabbit or chicken, but is a sensation either way.

How to cook quail eggs and meat

Writer Sheryn Dean holds a controversial opinion — she thinks that quail eggs and meat are superior to chickens.

Recipe: Roast Venison Rack

A rack of venison is a true showstopper, and it’s easier to cook than you might think.

The history of Haldon Station

One of New Zealand’s iconic high-country stations, the 22,000-hectare Haldon Station in the Mackenzie Country, stars in a new book tracing its history, owners, managers and staff.

Why cows burp less on a seaweed diet

A seaweed-rich diet may be the key to reducing burps in cattle.

Two ways to deter your cat from killing wildlife

Being a responsible cat owner also means protecting our native birds.

Piha local hero uses art to help young creatives

An environmental artist, dipping into her palette of life experiences, is painting a brighter future for young creatives in West Auckland. It’s her most powerful work yet.

Recipe: Jerusalem Artichoke Tarte Tatin

Impress dinner guests with this simple yet timeless artichoke dish and homemade dressing.

6 trees to plant for great firewood

If you’re planning to plant trees this winter, here are six good options that make excellent firewood.

Why you should never hug or kiss a chicken

They’re delightful little creatures, but you need to be careful about how you share the love.

How Greytown's Mr and Mrs Blackwell fell in love with village life

A couple so in love with their picturesque village can’t help but come up with ideas to make it even better.

Recipe: Sumac-Roasted Chickpeas

These are a crunchy alternative to chips and nuts. Nibble on them with pre-dinner drinks or toss through a salad.

An ancient drink gets a plant-based twist

Take an ancient, fermented drink, then add a whole lot of coconuts and billions of beneficial bacteria. A Raglan business has hit on a winning recipe.

May gardening tasks for your best-ever winter garden

Dreaming of some fat homegrown cauliflower? Plant this crop (and many others) now and reap the rewards later.

Chooks and cancer: What to look out for

Long-time poultry writer Sue Clarke answers your queries on poultry health.

Meet Wellington's all-electric turquoise ferry

There’s a new player in Wellington Harbour cruising alongside the familiar red tugboats and lumbering Interislander ferries.

Why scientists need your flood photos

Climate change means more floods, and finding new ways to cope.

This man's Farina tugs at an emotional level

Uncooperative steering, motor-induced driver deafness, and general lacklustre performance haven’t dulled the love between Todd Sisson and his A40 Austin Farina.

Recipe: Anchovy Twists

Even people who say they loathe anchovies will love these cheesy, crunchy snacks. They’re great with a pre-dinner drink.

Why you should add cavolo nero to your garden

It’s hearty, homegrown, and sounds as good as it tastes (if you say it in Italian).

World wanderers return to nest in a Far North tiny house

For two years, this couple traveled in a Jeep throughout the Americas, the length of Africa and into many of Europe’s far-flung corners — often facing great danger. But the lessons they learned together on the road will drive them into an exciting future.

Recipe: Spiced Date & Walnut Torte

This spiced torte is very rich but almost impossible to resist.

From photographer to zookeeper at Auckland Zoo

Combining an artistic eye with a love for animals created a career trajectory that Grace Watson hadn’t anticipated.

Rangitīkei: Where to raft, fish, stroll and explore

On the Rangitīkei stretch of SH1— from the Manawatū and southwest to Horowhenua’s Foxton — rivers, lakes, wetlands and beaches create a vibrant ecosystem well worth a visit.

Recipe: Pork Sausage Rolls with Apple Pickle

This is a great dish to make when you have a couple of people coming over to watch a big game or for a bite of lunch at the weekend.

Recipe: Cardamom and Rosewater Dessert Feijoas

Celebrate the colours of autumn with this delectable treat.

Hūhana Lyndon on using her influence for good

Hūhana Lyndon, previously a vocal critic of the Ngātiwai Trust Board, is its new chief executive.

Broccoli Tart with Red Onion Jam & Walnut Pesto

Feel free to experiment with this tart and use other veggies, it will taste just as good.

The Akaroa Men's Shed has become the talk of the town

A retiree joins a global movement, lending a hand to build relationships — and neighbourhoods.

This treasured herb can fetch up to $10,000 per kilo

One of the world’s most valuable herbs is growing in secret plantations in NZ, and you can grow it too.

Recipe: Surrendered Pumpkin & Tomatoes

“Surrendered” is the term given to vegetables that are cooked long enough to allow them to break down to golden deliciousness.

How to prevent and eliminate red mites

Here’s how to fight one of the most frustrating problems for poultry owners that’s so small, it’s hard to spot.

10+ tips for your herb garden this April

It's time to trim, sow and consider growing something unusual this winter...

How to naturally grow nutrient-rich food

If your goal is to grow nutrient-rich food in sync with nature, the key to getting it right starts long before you plant anything.

11 iconic Kiwiana statues to spot around the country

Passers-by can’t help but smile as they spot the wacky, oversized and oh-so-wonderful town statues erected around the country.

Growing an idyllic lifestyle (and garden-fresh ventures) on the Kina Peninsula

A natural phenomenon helped one Tasman woman shake off serious post-op complications and led to a thriving produce and floristry business involving an entire family.

How Tom Waldin scaled his way into a pro climbing career

Sport climbing has been around since the 1800s, but thrill-seeking Gen Z-ers have made it so popular it has earned a place at the Olympics.

The Kiwi company keeping its cool with eco-friendly refrigeration

When temperatures soar, the hum of air conditioning and refrigeration units sound an ominous chorus. This company is offering a greener solution.

These signs may mean your chooks are vitamin deficient

Vitamins are a tiny part of your flock’s diet, and if they’re missing, the signs can be confusing.

Building a 50sqm cabin beneath the stars of Mackenzie Country

Inspired by the endless skies and tussocks of Mackenzie Country, this couple left their hearts wide open to building a life (and tiny cabin) in the nation’s night-sky capital.

13 ways to prevent flystrike

Flystrike is easy to prevent, but vets still see it far too often.

Recipe: Yoghurt Roulade with Roasted Plums

Celebrate your harvest with this delicious plum dessert.

Lynda Hallinan's tips for surviving tough gardening times

When the going gets tough, it’s not just the tough who get going.

Recipe: Middle Eastern Meatballs

Everyone loves meatballs — Lucy Corry is sure they’re due a comeback sometime soon.

Two Nelson bakers swap their whisks for lemon squeezers

A sip of elderflower lemonade changed the trajectory of two bakers’ lives. Pete and Marleen Suy swapped their whisks for lemon squeezers and haven’t looked back.

20 tips for aspiring BnB hosts

If you live in paradise and want extra income, it makes sense to invite people to stay. Sheryn shares her lessons hosting visitors from near and far.

This hunter-led initiative protects the local whio population

A band of hunters and fishers is bringing a rarely sighted bird back to the Waioeka Gorge.

A couple creates a secluded retreat in the treetops of their farm

Diversification was on the cards when a buzz-loving broadcaster moved to a remote Canterbury valley with a sixth-generation farmer. Million Springs farm is today host to 2000 cows and a business in the trees.

These block owners are helping kids reconnect with nature

A Northland family share the healing powers of their land to help children in crisis, and it’s working.

11 management tips for healthier and fatter lambs

The decisions you make about how you manage your sheep now have a big influence on the lambs you'll get in spring.

10 ways to safeguard your block from a fire

With heatwaves sweeping through the country, it's time to brush up on fire safety in rural areas.

Recipe: Elderberry, Rhubarb and Cinnamon Tea Cake

When elderberries begin to ripen, Kristina Jensen knows it's time to get baking.

15 spray-free strategies to protect crops from pests

Looking for spray-free solutions to outsmarting bugs? Here's the ultimate guide for remaining one step ahead.

A photographer's local park transports him worldwide

A photographer wanders through Albert Park near his inner-city home, wondering when travels further afield might be allowed, and begins to reflect on connections close at hand.

Case study: Two kunekune pigs eat rat bait (and survive)

Two cute pigs are too greedy for their own good.

7 tips for keeping your block secure

Going on holiday to the beach? If you prepare right, you won't have to worry about block security while you're away.

This is how to get an all-year round fruit harvest

With this guide, you'll be sure to select fruit trees that will yield fruit year-round.

Are quail better than chooks?

These tiny birds are the easiest and most efficient producers of eggs and meat you can raise.

Protect and nourish your garden this January

Summer is the time to take proactive measures to prevent fungal diseases, thirsty plants, and insect infestations.

Recipe: Michael Van de Elzen's Clams with Spaghetti

This recipe uses clams but feel free to swap them for any other shellfish, including mussels. Resist the temptation to eat them for every meal!

Meet the couple behind Aotearoa’s first botanical rum

Rum is the 'wild west of spirits', according to the man behind New Zealand’s first botanical rum. But Matt Bridge has tamed it into a bottle, and it drinks as beautifully as it looks.

How these three farmers are treating their soil with the utmost respect

Healthy soil is the basis of a healthy planet, and without it, there is no nourishment for its inhabitants. Meet three farmers treating their dirt with the greatest respect.

Recipe: Blueberry Frozen Yoghurt

This easy-peasy recipe allows you to make a creamy frozen dessert at home without any fancy equipment.

Recipe: Rosti with Creamed Spinach

This rosti is sure to soak up all the creamy goodness of the spinach.

10 weeds to forage (plus how to use them)

You’ll find these common weeds in your garden or out on your block, but you’ve probably never thought of harvesting them for dinner. Here’s how to turn a plant in the wrong place into a delicious, healthy addition to your diet.

4 delicious summer dips to make

Food writer Kristina Jensen shares her favourite summer dips.

Recipe: Christmas Rolled Pork with Coriander Crust

Hear Michael Van de Elzen out — switch up Christmas dinner this year with a herby pork belly.

Karen Vercoe on how sports and tribal leadership intersect

The skills Karen Vercoe learnt representing New Zealand in rugby and touch rugby are invaluable in her tribal leadership roles.

Recipe: Poppy-Crumbed Chicken Arms and Red Slaw

Forget Kentucky Fried Chicken, here's a healthier and even tastier twist with red wine and poppyseeds.

The zero-waste legend helping Matakana turn trash into treasure

This Matakana local has gone from being classed as a hippie to an environment hero.

When to thin your fruit trees

When fruit trees finish blossoming, the leaves unfurl, and trees set their crop for the season. That’s when it’s time to do your first pick.

How to turn your garden into a white wonderland

White gardens are beautiful day and night, but even the most famous one in the world is a mix of colours, and that’s all-white.

Inside the stormy business of seaweed harvesting

When wild winds rage across the top of the Hauraki Gulf, it’s time for these farmers to harvest a special crop.

Former pro golfer finds new shots after 40+ years in the game

Phil Tataurangi first picked up a golf club when he was a child. Forty-something years later, 20 of those spent as a tour pro, the sport continues to enthral him.

6 locations to consider for your dream lifestyle block

If you want to find an affordable dream country home, here are six spots to consider.

How this top female orienteer goes the distance

Grit and determination are part of an elite athlete’s makeup. They were also qualities this orienteer needed to help steer her through the scariest moment of her life.

Finding a balance between healthy foods and palatable flavour

It’s all very well for the strong-minded to advise ‘food be thy medicine’, but what if it tastes awful and has the mouthfeel of shoe leather?

How to grow herbs for a profit

Starting a backyard herbal enterprise can be a viable means of earning extra cash.

From salon floors to the frontline of firefighting

Rachael Utumapu QSM left school at 15 for hairdressing. Since then, her life has been dedicated to the community.

An encounter with a 1930 Rolls-Royce 20/25 turned out to be fate

Over the years, John Bristed has owned many cars, but his siren call was the fearless little lady on a Rolls-Royce bonnet.

How to control alligator weed on your block

Watch out for this weed, it can easily outcompete pasture and clog up your waterways.

The art of the homegrown salad bowl

A salad is the celebration of home-grown, leafy vegetables but there’s an art to mixing the perfect salad.

This man's letterpress collection is anything but hard-pressed

A passion for print and printing presses is filling an Auckland man’s life as well as his three sheds and double garage.

Recipe: Spicy Orange, Mint and Beetroot Salad

You can use cooked or raw beetroot in this salad. The last three ingredients give the salad a unique, delicate look and different textures.

Inside this Clevedon family's growing veggie-box business

A family vegetable business on a South Auckland block has created an award-winning way of selling their produce.

The ultimate sick chook guide + a case study

Working out what’s wrong with a sick chicken can be tricky, even for an expert. Here’s how to improve your odds of getting a diagnosis, and prevent illness in your flock.

New technology creates virtual fences for cows

A new venture aims to give farmers back what they value most — time.

7 tips for cutting back spring with a brushcutter

If you’ve got out-of-control weeds or long, tough grass, a brushcutter is a great tool for tidying.

6 ways to work out if your hens are laying

If you're not getting all the eggs you expect, Sue Clarke explains how to work out who's laying, who's about to, and who's cruising.

Why Lynda Hallinan can't give up on fussy ferns

Lynda indulges her fever for ferns with a tabletop collection of covetable species.

Inside the expensive world of houseplants

That old houseplant at your grandma’s house might be worth thousands, but can you make a killing growing the most on-trend houseplants?

Why chickens are liars

When a bird gets sick, it turns on its amazing powers to trick us.

8 tips to give your ride-on mower a spring spruce-up

October grass is often thick and lush, putting extra stress on your ride-on mower, so give it a spring makeover.

6 nutritious plants to grow for happy chickens

How to create a nutritious mixed salad and creepy-crawly entrée that will improve the health of your chickens.

What is umami? How to add umami to your cooking

We're biologically programmed to crave a hearty steak, but there are also meat-free ways to add or enhance that same sense of 'yummy'.

Recloaking Gisborne with eco-sourced trees

A group of (mostly) women are regenerating Gisborne’s flora — one eco-sourced seed at a time.

Hinerangi Raumati-Tu’ua on the value of elders, cultural values and Māori in leadership roles

Successful organizations rely on clear cultural values, vision, authenticity, and creative thinking, says this professional director.

Why you should give chokos a go

They’re the winter equivalent of cucumbers, and there's a secret to picking the ones that taste best.

How Snowflake the goat kid overcame pneumonia

Country vet Sarah Clews meets goat kid Snowflake during his hospitalization from a bad case of pneumonia.

7 layers of a successful food forest

Creating a thriving food forest is an art and a science.

How a bush hut inspired this couple's new lease on life

A backcountry hut along the Forgotten World Highway is a befitting backdrop for this city-eschewing couple.

A Queenstown couple's outdoor approach to teaching pre-schoolers

A Queenstown couple take on the task of nurturing Aotearoa’s most valuable and important resource.

Why polenta is perfect for winter comfort

The Italians know how to create comforting winter food, but writer Kristina Jensen takes it one step further.

A beginner's guide to hoof trimming

Limping cattle, sheep, and goats are a common winter sight, but there are ways to fix and prevent it.

A globe-trotting couple make Waiheke their forever home

Two global citizens who dropped anchor in Waiheke Island continue to grab opportunities as soon as they come along in a home that melds identity and imagination.

Recipe: Spiced Parsnip Hash Browns

Craving some fried food? Give in and avoid the guilt with this healthy spin on the classic hash brown.

How tragedy inspired an aircraft tracking solution

A tragic search-and-rescue mission prompted these innovators to rethink aircraft safety.

A rare herd of cuddly-looking giants near Taupo

They look quite cuddly, and they're roaming on a farm near Taupo, but farming them isn't for the fainthearted.

A guide to biosecurity on your lifestyle block or farm

Good biosecurity will save you money and heartache.

This premature lamb weighed the same as a guinea pig

A case study of Davie, the premature lamb.

Recipe: Chilli Kiwi Hot Sauce

This recipe has been tried-and-tested to perfection since Kristina Jensen's university days.

Recipe: Lentil & Kumara Curry

This is a great vegetarian substitute for butter chicken and the best part is, it can also be made gluten and dairy free.

How this young woman grew a slow-flower farm from the ground up

A psychology student’s budding business, providing solace when she most needed it, is rooted in the belief that homegrown flowers can heal the mind, body and soul.

The not-so still-life of this artistic Tīmaru couple

Several generations of two families — one Japanese, the other Bohemian — live on in the work of two artists, a couple working in Tīmaru.

Recipe: Ruth Pretty's Grapefruit Cheesecake

There's nothing more heartwarming than a hand-me-down recipe.

Leaving Paris for the sweet life in Hawke's Bay

A pastry chef is constructing a slower, sweeter life in Hastings after bidding adieu to a law career in Paris.

Recipe: Potato & Black Bean Enchiladas

This recipe is a firm family favourite because it's big enough to feed a crew, but you can halve the amounts.

Why every driveway needs a tractor with the right blade

Even a well-designed driveway needs regular maintenance, and there’s one accessory that will help it make the grade.

5 toxic mistakes you may be making with your chooks

There are all kinds of myths and 'fake news' about poultry, and some of them are deadly.

Ārepa founders on changing the mood of the drinks industry

The founders of beverage company Ārepa are aiming high with the twin goals of creating the world’s smartest drink and building New Zealand’s first billion-dollar beverage company.

Recipe: Broccoli with Black Olives & Parmesan

Broccoli is one of those vegetables which work well with almost anything — take advantage of its versatility with this recipe.

19 great fruit trees to plant this winter

Gardening teacher and landscaper Kath Irvine shares her favourite fruit tree varieties. Fruit trees must tick three boxes — delicious, hardy and reliable.

The paint-spattered Badcock family tree

Father and daughter, John and Susan Badcock, are just two members of the thoroughly paint-spattered Badcock family tree.

A beginner's guide to growing inside

What to think about if you’re buying a greenhouse for the first time.

The ups and downs of sculptor Ben Foster's car restoration

Ben Foster has come to realize his car project is a form of therapy for himself and his mates after the psychological and mental anguish of the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake and the last year of the pandemic.

Recipe: Crispy Veggie Chips

Forget splurging on a bag of gourmet chips at the store, try making your own (hint: it's easier than you think).

11 crops to plant this winter

As Jack Frost arrives, the harvest of fresh fruit and veggies slows down. But there are several stalwarts that survive the cold, and it’s the ideal time to plant fruit trees.

A surf champ's perfect wave was in Māhia all along

Ricardo Christie started surfing almost before he could walk and was still in his teens when he won the national championship.

A couple's shared love for permanent pigments

A Featherston couple has set up two studios, separate but connected, on the town’s main street. While one favours neutral hues, the other is drawn to a profusion of pigment.

How to bring on the winter veggies this June

The time has come to get winter-ready — here's what you need for a continuous supply.

Going off-grid and mortgage-free in King Country

A family committed to a self-sufficient way of life have quickly turned an untamed block into a productive homestead.

Recipe: Fish with Brown Butter Sauce & Popped Capers 

This is a great way to cook lower-priced fish species such as blue moki, gurnard, hoki, monkfish and trevally.

The feel-good benefits of a communal farm

Common Property still operates with the purpose of giving access to land to those who couldn't afford their own. This is what we can learn from their community-oriented initiative.

Recipe: Beetroot Hummus

This is a vibrant dip or you can use it as a spread.

9 tips to building a good wood stack

Gathering firewood is one of those jobs best done year-round, so you always have a dry, well-seasoned supply.

This woman proves it's never too late to change careers

Kay Paku feels life has delivered her a series of career options — each a lucky chance rather than a deliberate choice.

Recipe: Curried Pumpkin, Bacon & Feta Muffins

You may find you need to make two batches of these tangy, moist, melt-in-the-mouth muffins as they won’t last long.

The Easiest Curried Pumpkin Soup

This is NZ Lifestyle Block columnist Kristina Jensen's favourite way to use her pumpkin harvest.

The best way to be zero waste on a block

Waste from your block is actually quite the opposite to its name — here's how to make the most of its value.

Top 10 veggie crops for city gardeners

These veggies are excellent for small gardens.

The ultimate guide to designing your dream orchard

The basics of creating a productive orchard, and the design tricks that will keep it that way.

How daylight affects egg production

One of the biggest influences on your hens' health is a star in the sky.

Recipe: Pulled Ham Hock Soup with White Beans

This soup is light, brothy and loaded full of nutritious vegetables.

Recipe: Ruth Pretty's Criss-Cross Agrias with Rocket

When buying, look for potatoes that still have dirt on them — the soil is a protective layer.

11 tips for caring for your livestock this May

Now is the best time to prepare for lambing season.

Why these growers share 11ha for the common good

Many would-be growers can't afford their own land, but on this block, a little common sense creates business opportunities.

10 tips to drying firewood in just 6 weeks

Get the basics right, and you can have perfect firewood in as little as six weeks.

Meet the Tauranga duo behind eco-cloth business Good Change

Combining friendship with work can be risky but two go-getting Tauranga women, each with a desire to create a more sustainable world, have chosen to join forces.

7 ways to fight a varroa infestation

There are several ways you can treat a hive to reduce varroa mite populations.

How to plant a forest and receive funding for it

Mass planting expert Rachel Rose reveals the different funding options available and the secret to planting a good forest.

Recipe: Homely Rosemary & Lemon Cake

Breadcrumbs and almonds form the base for this unusual Italian cake, which is delicate in texture and big on flavour.

Teresa Tepania-Ashton on staying true to her identity

The ability to be true to her identity has helped Teresa Tepania-Ashton to succeed in corporate and tribal leadership roles.

The rare and wonderful animals of Avonstour Island

John Earney is a collector of many old things, including traditional livestock breeds.

Black Ferns Sevens star ready for the Olympic spotlight

Working to improve her mental strength and gaining much-needed confidence has been a game-changer for Black Ferns Sevens star Michaela Blyde.

The immune system and ageing's big diseases

In the first of a new column, a medical doctor explains how the immune system changes after middle age and causes ageing’s big diseases.

Behind the scenes at NZ's fastest-growing snack company

One couple’s journey to running the fastest-growing snack company in New Zealand — from baking cheesecakes in the United States to crafting the perfect crisp in the South Island.

An expert reveals the best trees to grow and the ones to avoid

Rachel Rose has helped to plant almost 5000 trees in the past two years. These are the best trees to grow and ones to avoid.

How this woman scored a 1969 Lancia Fulvia

Italian flair comes to Ōhakune in the form of a racy little italian number.

A Wellington lawyer tackles systemic racism in the justice system

Julia Whaipooti never shies from being an agent of change, whether speaking at the United Nations or fighting for equality and equity within Aotearoa’s justice system.

At home with Waiheke artist Tanya Wolfkamp

On a hillside on Waiheke Island, an artist has found her niche, creating the designs for colourful Kiwiana homewares and accessories.

Thinking about importing seeds? Here's what you should know

Buying seeds from overseas can cost you and New Zealand a pretty bad penny.

Explore this photographer's walking tour of Wellington

A writer/photographer takes a walking tour of the country’s capital, stopping for swirling sculptures, naked models and extremely good cake.

6 easy-peasy ways to preserve herbs

The options are endless when it comes to preserving herbs.

Why you should keep an eye on your chooks' poo

Poo is a useful indicator of flock health, and a possible early warning sign of an illness if you know good poo from bad.

Recipe: Sweet Risotto with Poached Tamarillos

This rice pudding is anything but boring, it brings a fruity twist to a family classic.

Recipe: Butterflied Chicken with Red Pepper Salad

Ease into the evening with roast chicken tossed with hearty veg and crusty sourdough.

A limoncello-making couple's zest for life

Willing friends pitch in to help this Paraparaumu couple make their zesty award-winning limoncello.

Your go-to guide to freezing fresh produce

Freezing your favourite summer produce is a simple, fast, and economical way (if you do it right) to preserve the best in your crops.

The delicate art of breeding bumblebees

Zonda Beneficials provides insect predators for use in horticulture and small-seed production and breeds bumblebees for commercial and domestic pollination.

Thinking of restoring a wetland? Here's what you should know

Learn from those who've done it on how to repair and restore a past wetland that can help save the world from climate change.

Recipe: Molten Chocolate Cakes with Salted Caramel

This chocolate molten cake is not only the perfect sweet treat but also fail-proof.

How to test your chooks and their eggs for lead

If there is a possibility of lead contamination on your block, testing is crucial despite its costs.

Recipe: Ruth Pretty's Pumpkin & Courgette Salad

This salad makes a tasty vegetarian main course, especially with the addition of toasted walnuts and barbecued cherry tomatoes.

DIY: How to build a fruit and veggie rack

Build a storage rack for your autumn harvest and preserves.

Recipe: Cheese Toasts with Salmon & Tarragon

Save a few cheesy loaves in the freezer for when you need a breezy-but-beautiful canapé.

A guide to wetlands in NZ from an expert

If you’re dealing with a paddock that’s a boggy mess in winter, it was probably once a wetland.

10 tips for gardening in March

With the ground still warm from the hot months, autumn is the perfect time for planting.

Recipe: Barbecued Whole Snapper with Peperonata

Cooking the snapper on the bone creates even more flavour in this dinner dish.

Recipe: Michael Van de Elzen's Salsa Verde

This sauce is simple yet addicting, perfect for summertime.

The Hastings couple led by the nose for high spirits

Two former winemakers are creating gin and other spirits, capturing the essence of the region in which they live.

What you need to know about lead in eggs

Keeping Chickens NZ's Andrea Graves looks at a study into lead concentrations found in backyard hens and their eggs.

Recipe: Roasted Mushroom and Garlic Rigatoni

This pasta recipe will convert even the most passionate of mushroom-haters into lovers.

Why this Kiwi film-maker visited México and never left

The vibrant spontaneity of a city where a circus troupe might suddenly appear amid the colourful buildings appealed to the creative spirit of this film-maker. So she relocated to Mexico's San Miguel de Allende— and never left.

Recipe: Poached Figs with Verjuice and Sugar

A quick yet delicious dessert sure to satisfy any cravings for a sweet treat.

A guide to being a good country neighbour

Understanding rural etiquette can make for a more peaceful life on the block.

Explore this bright-but-basic bach at Punakaiki

A couple of legal high-flyers and their twin girls are now enjoying a slower way of life in a basic-but-beloved bach on the West Coast.

How to make homemade extracts

Turn fruit and herbs into flavours you can use all year round.

How this top athlete found her beat in race walking

On the best of days, the grueling sport of race walking feels like dancing to New Zealand’s top-ranked female competitor Alana Barber.

How to get the most from a fig tree

An expert grower explains why some fig trees just don't grow fruit.

Recipe: Blackcurrant & White Chocolate Crème Brûlée

There's no need to save this silky smooth dessert for only special occasions, it's simply too irresistible.

A Piopio-based boat builder finds his anchor

A boat builder with itchy feet, huge ideas and a young family finds his spiritual home in a tiny-but-mighty King Country town.

Is this the secret to productive farming?

Research is showing that the biodiversity of your land is more important than ever.

Recipe: Cherry Tomato Puttanesca Sauce

Tomatoes are the taste of summer, especially if still sun-warmed.

Recipe: Plum Frangipane Puff Tart

A delicious dessert full of nostalgia for chef Michael Van de Elzen.

From news junkie to a radio newsreader

She never expected to be a radio newsreader, nor the voice of a mobile network. But these days Mary-Jane Tomasi is broadcast far and wide.

12 dos & don’ts of being a good country neighbour

Getting along with your neighbours can make country life that bit more special.

This Wānaka couple finds purpose in the mountains

Helping people to find their “why” is the life purpose of a Wānaka-based couple who find answers in the mountains.

Ngāi Te Rangi iwi leader Paora Stanley on past, present and future

Helping a tribe navigate a Treaty of Waitangi settlement can be long and tumultuous, says the chief executive for Tauranga iwi Ngāi Te Rangi, Paora Stanley.

Recipe: Fried Chermoula Cauliflower with Bean Dip

These spiced cauliflower steaks on green dip steal the show at any dinner party but are super simple for a mid-week dinner too.

Recipe: Blueberry Hot Sauce

The fermentation in this hot sauce not only increases the shelf life, but makes it more delicious.

A wee hut on a 1400ha farm in north Canterbury

This couple has built a first-rate life among the drylands of north Canterbury, spiced up — as if it were needed — with classic cars and a cottage with a view that rolls on forever.

Wisdom from a couple with a certified organic block

After almost 30 years on their block, this Ohoka couple are brimming with wisdom for wannabe block owners.

8 summer tasks for the flower garden

Fresh flowers will make the transition into the colder seasons much more do-able.

Why you should consider letting your lawn go wild

Life's too short to be fussy over a lawn, it's time to let nature take its course.

This bike-lover rides away the mid-life blues

Originally designed in late-1950s communist Czechoslovakia, the Czeta was rebranded to NZeta when it reached Aotearoa. One, now meticulously restored, helped this bike-lover through a mid-life crisis.

How a squashed tomato sowed a growing love affair

Food writer Kristina Jensen celebrates a special couple and their favourite tomato.

9 expert tips for February gardening

No amount of heat can stop one's dedication to the garden.

Recipe: Spiced Plum Crumble Cake 

This cake’s tender crumb and crunchy topping partner perfectly with slightly tart and juicy plums.

Recipe: Mum's Pasta & Pizza Sauce

Savour the taste of summer for the colder months ahead with this freezer tomato pasta and pizza sauce.

They left their jobs to become mushroom growers

Two management consultants have exchanged the corporate world for a country life dedicated to sharing the joy of mushrooms.

5 ways to reduce flies around your chicken coop

If you have chickens, you have flies. Here are five good options to quiet their buzz.

10+ tips and tricks to creating a great outdoor space

The newest 'room' of your house could be right outside your door. Here's what to think about when you're creating the ultimate outdoor space.

What you need to know about inflammation

Sometimes termed “the fire within”, inflammation is often insidious, causing damage where it can’t be seen. One doctor is on a mission to help people understand that the lifestyle choices they make now will almost certainly affect their health later.

These neighbours joined forces in the name of ice cream

Two Nelson farmers are keeping things local, churning their A2 milk into ice cream produced just minutes down the road from their milking sheds.

Why Joanna Wickham is letting nature reclaim her property

A ballad of birdsong, rushing water and rustling kauri caused this photographer to swap the crowded streets of inner-city Auckland for the gravel roads of Donnellys Crossing.

How to avoid these three common pasture mistakes

Learn from the mistakes of long-time block owners and use their lessons to your advantage.

How Forty Thieves cracked the nut butter industry

The nut butter industry, known to be tough to crack, didn’t unnerve this health-conscious couple. Four years later, their nut buttery stocks more than 400 retailers nationwide.

How this Pāpāmoa dad became king of the sandcastle

A nostalgic summer activity reaches new heights in the hands of a Bay of Plenty performance artist.

Recipe: No-Sugar Chia Seed Berry Spread

This berry jam-like spread is super easy. The chia seeds thicken this tasty spread without using sugar and gives it a healthy twist.

From second-language learner to te reo Māori champion

At a time when many young Māori were heading to Australia, Brisbane-born and raised Jeremy Tātere MacLeod bucked the trend by moving to Hastings to immerse himself in Māori culture.

Explore this cute-as-a-button tiny home in Burkes Pass

Marie Pourcel wakes each morning to goats bleating outside her tiny home in Burkes Pass. It feels like a million miles from the apartment and office job she left behind in France’s fourth-largest city.

A block owner's guide to summer sleepouts

If you want extra beds for summer guests, a simple sleepout may be the ideal solution.

The secret to great no-sugar jam (it's possible)

You might think sugar is vital for good jam, but food writer Kristina Jensen's experiments show it's not.

The possible reasons your chook has dropped dead

If you own poultry, at some point one of the flock may die, seemingly for no reason.

3 easy plant-based oils to make at home

Specialty oils are expensive to buy. Most people assume they’re difficult to make, but it’s possible to do it yourself.

An expert's guide to cooking mushrooms

It's time to join the great shroom-boom and learn how to cook this highly controversial vegetable the right way.

The couple bringing fun to the mushroom business

A 2 billion year old organism is the hot new food trend, and a gourmet business opportunity.

7 tips for successful beehive placement

Location is critical for bees, and your neighbours.

How this Auckland man makes a litter(al) difference

A walker recovering from illness took the chance to clean up his local area. Both are now in good health.

6 great cycling trails around New Zealand

Welcome to the golden age of cycling, of aching calf muscles and helmet hair. Thousands are pumping up their tyres to explore the best of New Zealand on two wheels.

This Ōākura artist regards colour as therapy

A secondary school art teacher scolded his students for being “plum puddings” and told them to get on with their art. One of them took this admonition to heart, his words inspiring her since.

Explore this remote Fiordland haven for native birds

This spectacular part of Fiordland National Park was once the site of early European contact, exploration and settlement. those early pioneers, and the successful endeavours of more recent conservationists, have inspired a book.

6 chicken disabilities to look out for

It’s important to look for a cause of a disability so you can avoid it in the future.

Recipe: Paul's Plum Sauce

This writer has a rich plum heritage, and a secret ingredient in her family's favourite sauce recipe.

Busting the myths of the common cold

A cold may be common but finding a cure for it has thwarted scientists for centuries. It’s not for lack of trying, however. “Cures” abound (including that one involving vitamin C)…

How to care for aging poultry

Old poultry require special attention, and good decisions about their care.

Explore this Aucklander's lifelong vintage collection

A lifetime love affair with apparel enters a new phase with the collector becoming the creator.

The four young Kiwis behind a sparkling drink empire

Four young entrepreneurs want to promote and protect the country's native environment while growing their sparkling drink empire.

The adventures of an off-grid couple near Rotorua

They live off-grid in a log cabin, drive an electric car, and measure their progress in toilets. Meet a pair of earth nerds living their great adventure.

The Kiwi mum-turned-leader in maternity activewear

This Whāngārei-based maternity activewear brand reached 14 on the Deloitte Fast 50 list within five years of shipping its first bras.

The ultimate guide for growing dill

Dill is often confused with fennel, but if you love to cook, you need to know the difference.

11 tasks for the early summer garden

Pop these seeds on your next shopping list — summer's the perfect time to get sowing.

Explore this wedge-shaped house in Central Otago

A conductor and a violinist find a soothing new tempo inside a Central Otago triangle.

Recipe: Ruth Pretty's Summer Salad

Consider this salad another way to add more avocado and watermelon into your life.

6 quick-and-tasty ways to use fresh dill

Dill is a summer herb you can play with – it’s hard to overdo it.

DIY Project: An artistic climbing frame for plants

A practical climbing frame for plants can double as art for the garden.

The Toyota that stole her heart and joined her down the aisle

Kellie Hollingsworth wasn’t interested in cars, let alone restoring them. But then a shabby old Toyota stole her heart.

Recipe: Raspberry Jelly-Tip Pavlova Roll

Ruth Pretty's raspberry jelly-tip pavlova roll is pure Kiwiana goodness.

Playing it forward at the Taranaki Toy Library

A New Plymouth mum pours her heart into a global movement, bettering the planet one toy at a time.

Ruth Pretty's joyful Christmas feast

Celebrate the festive season with friends and family and share this easy, elegant feast.

This architecture graduate found structure in jelly

A jolly delicious business born from an art project is reinventing a Kiwi classic.

Eight years to master the gluten-free loaf

Once a builder, now a baker — a Hastings entrepreneur hasn’t let life’s hurdles get in the way of nourishing himself (and others) along the way.

Recipe: Mustard & Mint Pesto

Fresh mint mellows mustard’s spice in this easy pesto.

Recipe: Roasted Turkey with Red Rice Stuffing (GF)

The roasted turkey of your dreams is guaranteed to impress (and satisfy) a crowd.

How to feed your poultry at every life stage

The happy, healthy chicken diets you need to feed your poultry for every age.

8 plants to grow for protein

These plants are an easy source of nutritious protein and can be grown in most parts of the country.

5 ways to avoid drench resistance

Drench resistance is a big problem on NZ farms, and you risk bringing it onto your block every time you buy livestock.

15 ways to prep the farm for summer

Here's how to keep your farm animals happy as the seasons change.

DIY Project: Upcycle old tools into a garden gate

Turn your old tools into a decorative garden gate.

Recipe: Ceviche with Kūmara, Chilli & Coriander

This ceviche recipe is super simple, yet the taste is beyond fresh and delicious.

10 ways to encourage your kids to garden

Gardening is a fun activity for kids, and a great way to get them interested in eating vegetables.