Latitude

Experience the New with David Reid Homes Waitaki
It’s been another whirlwind of a year for North Otago husband and wife duo Aaron and Nikki Mackay of David Reid Homes Waitaki/ South Canterbury, but they don’t plan on slowing down, having added two more prestigious accolades to their already burgeoning collection.

Backyard Family Travellers
The idea of taking three young children on a mountain hike would leave most parents filled with a sense of dread. But Mid Canterbury-based blogger, marketing freelancer and social media influencer Jen Parkes regularly takes her children – Nathan (seven), Kipton (five), and Emilia (three) – into the great outdoors, and she’s on a mission to show other parents they can too.

Summer Living with Mitre 10 BBQs
From smokers to flat tops, to pizza ovens, outdoor kitchens and hooded solutions, buying a barbecue can be a complex task! Thankfully the teams at Mitre 10 MEGA Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru are on hand with some great advice.

Force of Nature
Growing up on a 40-hectare dairy farm in a tiny Waikato settlement, you’d not be surprised that Lynda Hallinan has the kind of positive, can-do attitude many people bring from a rural background. However, it’s the combination of this plus her own unique brand of energy, colour, wit and bracing honesty which makes her one of New Zealand’s best-loved garden enthusiasts and communicators .

The Beauty of Diversity
Inclusive dance company Jolt is based on the ethos that everyone has the right to dance and find their own creative voice, and the belief that communities are strengthened by the beauty of diversity. Artistic Director Lyn Cotton gives us an insight into this inspirational organisation.

Inspiring Fashion
Many would baulk at the idea of opening a new shop with little to no notice. But for Suzanne Talbot, her experience and knowledge of the local retail sector in Timaru saw her dive in headfirst, opening the doors of her second clothing store, Inspired on Stafford, within a month of the opportunity presenting itself.

The Next Stage – Lady Wigram Village
The decision to move into a retirement village or aged care facility can be brought about by a number of factors and whether you are looking for yourself or someone you love, it is important you understand the different options available. Rachel Wilson, Care Facility Manager at Lady Wigram Village answers our questions .

A Wildly Natural Venture
Raglan’s famed black sand coastlines loom large in Daneen Morgan’s sea salt flavoured memories of childhood. Her hometown in the Waikato is a surfing mecca and she recalls long summer days spent in the water. This is where she learned to swim and first strapped on a pair of water skis. Her father made aluminium fishing boats and pleasure craft for a living and family life with her two younger sisters revolved around the ocean.

We Stand on Their Shoulders
As Playcentre celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, we talk to Barbara Chapman who shares her involvement in the long and proud history of one of New Zealand’s leading preschool organisations.

Liquid Gold
For many years Jan Whyte had a dream; she wanted to grow olives. Despite finding her role as a family doctor in New Zealand very fulfilling, her dream persisted. Her sister Esther Paddon shares an insight into the journey Jan and her husband Niall Holland embarked on to make this dream a reality.