Our Life

Nicola Galloway's inspiring garden-to-table life

The real magic happens at snail’s pace in this devoted foodie’s kitchen and garden.

'How scooters, macaroni cheese and a kowhai helped me save 3.4 tonnes of carbon'

A four-week challenge to reduce carbon emissions identifies an unexpectedly colossal footprint.

Build a cute-as-a-button fruit and vegetable stand (part 2)

In part two of our series, we finish building a mobile roadside stand for selling your farm goods.

The Healing Power of Play

Radio Lollipop is an international children’s charity providing play and entertainment for children in hospital. Sue Kingham went along to meet some of the volunteers and discovered they are just what the doctor ordered.

A 47km pest-proof fence near Cambridge can keep even baby mice out

An ancient forest atop a Waikato mountain is home to the world’s largest mainland pest-free sanctuary.

A couple turns their orchard into an organic garden, café and gallery

Annie and Shaun Wilson stress the importance of having multiple income streams.

What you need to know about epigenetics

Developments in the science of epigenetics, which links genes and the environment, offer fresh insight to preventative healthcare but might have unforeseen consequences.

The benefits of hosting volunteers on your block

Volunteer schemes are not a way to get things done for free around your block, but Sheryn has still found it very profitable.

Exploring Mount Aspiring National Park in the all new Jeep Gladiator

The new Jeep Gladiator is put through its paces in scenic Central Otago.

20+ things you need to know if you're on tank water during a drought

Forecast rain might be a welcome relief for tank water users across the parched North Island, but now they should be wary of contamination.

DIY: Make your own hanging bird bath

Made with twigs ‘n’ twine and a pot-plant saucer, this bird bath will appeal to the arty gardener.

DIY project: Make a cute seat from old tyres

Here’s how to turn nasty old tyres into something pretty and useful.

New books to add to your reading list

These new release books are must-reads this summer.

The Perry family on how to "Raglan-afy" a bach

A universal truth is the power of three. In the coastal township of Raglan, three adored baches subscribe to that hypothesis.

Lucy Corry: The city dweller's guide to foraging

Even city dwellers can forage for edible finds with a few rudimentary guidelines to keep the tummy happy and the neighbours sweet, says Lucy Corry

Build this cute-as-a-button fruit and vegetable stand

In part one of a two part series, learn how to build a mobile roadside stand for selling your farm goods.

Citroën 2CV van gets an electric makeover

Dinky, red and full of green cred, a wheezing Citroën 2CV van gets a zippy new electric life.

Preserves 101: How to sterilize jars and preserve fruit safely

Make summer fruit and veggies last through winter with these simple preserving techniques, including low-sugar options for fruit bottling and jams.

8 lessons from long-time lifestyle block owners

If you could give one piece of advice to block owners, what would it be? Some long-time growers share their words of wisdom.

How Polly Greeks uses a pizza oven for off-grid living (plus her time-tested oven tips)

NZ Life & Leisure columnist Polly Greeks is building an off-grid mudbrick home in the Far North. The family of four’s pizza oven is not just a luxury, it’s an essential part of life.

How to buy the lifestyle block of your dreams

Looking for what is not there is often the hardest part.

Kiwiana décor, homewares and art in a 1960s Fibrolite bach

It’s more than a storehouse of treasured family memories, more than a good example of 1960s bach architecture. It’s a museum of its era and now it has inspired a book.

How to prevent burglars on your rural property

It’s time to have a rest and spend time enjoying the summer sun, but burglars love your beach holiday as much as you do.

How to make natural after-sun skincare

Looking for a natural solution for too much sun? Jane Wrigglesworth digs up four herbs good for treating mild sunburn.

How to set up an irrigation system PLUS how to use Olla terracotta pots

Sick of losing plants because you forgot to water them? Make life easier by installing irrigation.

8 homemade gift ideas plus 16 baking treats

Show your love to friends and family, with  a home made gift idea for Christmas.  Find here eight DIY projects plus 16 baking ideas that will make them smile.

DIY project: How to make a fresh garland for Christmas

Dreaming of a green Christmas? Deck the halls naturally with this fresh festive decoration.

Everything to know about harvesting rainwater and greywater

Harvesting rainwater and greywater can be a great way to curb your environmental footprint. But regulations, safety and maintenance shouldn't be overlooked.

DIY Project: Make a self-watering container garden

Lettuce, herbs or flowers will stay hydrated all summer long in this self-watering container garden.

Quad bike accidents tend to happen to this kind of person in NZ

Injuries from quad bikes are increasing despite greater awareness of safety issues.

Craft project: 11 low-waste festive decorations to make at home

Transform bits and bobs around the home into festive, sustainable decorations this Christmas.

A Golden Bay mum's small business turns into a health product empire

In 1988, a solo mum living in the back of beyond launched a business selling health products. It now turns over $35 million a year.

They crowd-funded $30,000 to bring locally cultivated yeast to brewers

From brewing beer to cultivating cow-less milk, companies are experimenting with yeast to make food and drinks for an increasingly eco-minded world.

Limited-edition designer onesies for a good cause

Twenty-one designers have aligned with Great Full for its first charity initiative. The founder of the social enterprise, Melissa Gardi, explains why community matters.

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