Holly McVicar grew to appreciate great food while growing up in rural Katikati. After years abroad, she’s returned to the Bay of Plenty to a new life (and vege garden), inspired to share her recipes in this new seasonal column.

Colin Henderson learnt to shape cricket bats 40 years ago, and over the years has kept returning to the craft. Now, aged 71, he’s still hands-on creating quality bats.

The taqueria owners tell us about the challenges of immigrating to Aotearoa and leaving family in Mexico, as well as what they love about life in the Bay of Plenty.

Jim recalls his move from living on ciggies, energy drinks and fast food to appreciating the power of good food, and understanding how life-changing it is to be able to grow, and share, your own produce. 

It’s now just known as WFH. And sure, some people want to Work From Home, but others see it as sorrowful farewell to any shred of professionalism as they huddle over a makeshift desk in the garage, away from coughing kids. Or maybe it’s the physical suffering that comes with the poor ergonomic decision to use one’s bed as a workstation, while sheltering from flatmates. All we can say is, thank God for virtual backgrounds on Zoom. ‍