Fuller issue 4

FULLER ISSUE 04 HEROES VOL. 2.2.2015

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The Fuller Issue is about Christchurch, the city, and its people. Christchurch is in a unique position to review what it is to exist in an urban environment in the 21st Century and to create a new expression of urban existence. We feel that this is exciting and worth producing a publication about. The Fuller Issue does this by focusing on the people that make up the city - what they do and how they do it; profiling innovation and creativity; and the challenges and the dreams that make up city life.

TEAM FULLERThe Fuller Issue is put together by volunteers and is published with things we begged and borrowed and wrapped up with No 8 wire.

FULLER EDITOR Matt Walters | [email protected]

4TH ISSUE EDITOR Anita Kerr

FULLER TEAM Matt Walters, Anita Kerr, Sally Davies, Josh Duncan, Shawn Gough, Caitlin Metzel, Jane Huggins, Emma Groom, Michael Nicoll, Becky Watson

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sally Davies, Emma Groom, Joanna Innes

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTRIBUTORS Matt Walters, Josh Duncan, Becky Watson, Sheryl Watson, Tiffany Cone, Emma Groom, Beth Walters

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Shawn Gough, Anita Kerr, Matt Walters, Sally Davies, Michael Nicoll, Troy Billborough, Becky Watson

ADVERTISE IN THE FULLER ISSUE [email protected]

SEND US YOUR STUFF Send your articles, ideas, artwork and photographs to the editor at [email protected]. We get a lot of content so, If you don't hear from us don't take it personally; if we love it we'll be in touch!

Cover illustration: Ben Ningtoutao


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Little Gladiators ..................................................................... 06

People and Places ................................................................. 12

An interview with... Capitale ................................................. 16

Honest Organics .................................................................... 20

Bacon Brothers ...................................................................... 22

A Cut Above............................................................................ 26

The Christchurch Under 5s Collective .................................. 34

Welfare and Wellbeing - A City Issue .................................... 37

Black and White Café ............................................................ 42

Time To Shine ........................................................................ 46

These Aren't The Droids You're Looking For ........................ 48

Rogue Society Gin ................................................................. 52

Challenging The Way Things Are .......................................... 54

The Good Oils ........................................................................ 58

Going Off Piste ....................................................................... 62

Success Collective ................................................................. 70

Gustav's ................................................................................. 76

THE FULLER ISSUE 4


Have you ever watched the Up series?

FR

OM

TH

E E

DIT

OR From the editor

Directed by Michael Apted, it is a longitudinal study that follows the lives of a group of children interviewed in 1964 in Britain at the age of seven, and then every seven years after that, until today. They were all from different backgrounds. In 2012, they released 56 Up. Years after the Granada Television series of 7 Up first aired, these children have either fulfilled their dreams or not, sometimes creating other dreams along the way, while others struggled with the reality of life as they grew.

IN SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED CITIES, HEROES MAY NOT BE SO OBVIOUS, BUT THEY ARE STILL THERE

There was a famous line at the beginning of the series– “Give me a child until he is seven, and I will give you the man". St Francis Xavier was referring to how important the influences of childhood are on the development of character. I am not sure I totally agree with him; there is a part of us that may never change and will hold something of the character of our seven year-old selves, but I strongly believe we still get to make our future, we get a say in what we can change, and we can to a certain extent shape the world around us.

We are all different, but we all start out believing we can be and do anything. It is inspiring to keep thinking we never really grow up; we can always keep dreaming about our influence on the future and

the lives of those around us. “What are you going to be when you grow up?” is one of those questions we are asked as a child, just like “Who is your favourite superhero?”

It's no accident that most superheroes live in a metropolis like Chicago or New York. These are places where the most people live and where there are the most lives to be saved. In small to medium-sized cities, heroes may not be so obvious, but they are still there.

This issue of The Fuller takes a peek at the not so average and not so ordinary lives of people around us who are fulfilling some dreams, and making them possible for others, too. These are the real superheroes of our day.

ARE YOU ONE OF THESE SUPERHEROES OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS?

We would love to hear more at The Fuller – email us at [email protected] with unique stories, projects, businesses, enterprises, or art that inspire you and that you think others should know about.

[ ANITA KERR - DEPUTY EDITOR]

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The Ful ler Issue 4 C ontributorsIntroducing...

BEN NINGBen Ning (visual artist and writer) spent most of his life in India, hailing from a remote hill tribe which speaks a language listed on the official world endangered languages site. Since moving to New Zealand for the change of scenery, he has settled into Christchurch and found his niche in graphic design, drawing, writing, and observing culture (technically, consuming films, magazines, and books).

ANITA KERRI'm Anita, a member of The Fuller creative team and its Deputy Editor. What really drives me is being able to express creativity, whether in my day job in information management, or painting artworks for people, or writing for this magazine. I had a dream when I was younger about creating a magazine that was bringing a positive message to people, instead of trash and gossip. I never really thought it was an achievable goal or that I would ever be a part of anything like that, until I met Team Fuller and heard Matt’s vision for this magazine. Having an opportunity to express my creativity through an outlet like this (one with a great purpose) is why I love being a part of The Fuller Issue — a platform that inspires others along their creative path, too.

JOANNA INNESGraphic designer and digital marketer.

I moved to Christchurch at the beginning of 2015, after living in London for almost 5 years. I jumped at the chance to design for The Fuller Issue because it epitomises the reasons why I wanted to live in Christchurch – creativity, enterprise, interesting people and new places.

My passions are user experience design and customer experience. Even when designing for print, I’m always thinking about how someone will engage with the design; what could help or hinder their experience of it.


EVERY YEAR, CHRISTCHURCH AND CANTERBURY OPEN UP TO MOTOCROSS RIDERS FROM THE NORTH AND SOUTH ISLANDS, AS WELL AS AUSTRALIA. THEY COME TOGETHER TO BATTLE IT OUT IN AN ANNUAL EVENT THAT'S BEEN RUNNING FOR 32 YEARS AND COUNTING, THE MICHAEL GODFREY MEMORIAL.

Motocross is one of the sports available to the young people of today and the Michael Godfrey Memorial MX is one of the pinnacles of modern wheeled combat that in today's ever changing society is still legal. It keeps kids off the streets, teaches them about hard work, keeps them fit, gives them goals, fills them with determination, and educates them in the school of hard knocks. We don't really see it today, that to be a winner, you get knocked down seven times and you stand up eight.

At the recent event, The Fuller Issue caught up with two up-and-coming riders who race regularly in Christchurch and throughout New Zealand.

[ ARTICLE BY MICHAEL NICOLL AND SALLY DAVIES] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA DUNCAN ]


little gladiators



HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING?Since three years old. I'm 14 years old now.

BIKE/WEAPON OF CHOICE?125 or 85 KX.

WHOM DO YOU MODEL YOUR RIDING STYLE ON OR GET TRAINING TIPS FROM? Josh Coppins.

WHO'S YOUR HERO?Brett Cue.

WHOM DO YOU WANT TO BE LOOKED UP TO BY?Up and coming junior riders.

WHAT'S YOUR BEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE ON AND OFF THE BIKE?Fourth at Woodville this year, which is another big national event and my motivation for training and fitness.

jack hardy NZ number 9 85 cc Class

HOW IMPORTANT ARE YOUR SPONSORS AND WHY?They do so much for me, especially Jeremy at Backflips, who helped me heaps with Nationals and media exposure. I wouldn't be where I am today without them.

SHOUT OUT TO ANYONE?Jeremy McKnight for his help this year and the work he's put into me. Also Backflips and Un4seen Decals.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN CHRISTCHURCH?My house because I have a motocross track right here.


GIVE US A LIST OF THE INJURIES YOU’VE SUFFERED TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE.I'm quite lucky. I haven't really had any major injuries.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR RIDING?I want to keep doing what I'm doing to the best of my abilities. We'll see where it takes me. I definitely want to go to the NZ Nationals again and events in the North Island.

IF YOU COULD BE A SUPER HERO WHOM WOULD YOU BE?The Hulk.


HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING?About eight and a half years.

BIKE/WEAPON OF CHOICE?Kawasaki or Yamaha.

WHOM DO YOU MODEL YOUR RIDING STYLE ON OR GET TRAINING TIPS FROM?Dad and I do a little bit with Dylan Miles.

WHO'S YOUR HERO?Ken Roczen.

WHOM DO YOU WANT TO BE LOOKED UP TO BY?I would like riders my age to look up to me when I am older.

WHAT'S YOUR BEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE ON AND OFF THE BIKE?Winning NZ Mini Nationals 2010. Rugby and football – 2012 winning the southwest zones.

marshall phillipsNZ number 3 85

cc Class


HOW IMPORTANT ARE YOUR SPONSORS AND WHY?Really important - they help me with everything, getting to events, gear, bike parts.

SHOUT OUT TO ANYONE?Mum and Dad, Dan at Motohub, Fly NZ, Decorative Supplies, Whites Power Sports, Backflips, Dirtworks, Nithrone, Un4seen Decals.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN CHRISTCHURCH?Up on the hill, around Victoria Park - mountain biking.

GIVE US A LIST OF THE INJURIES YOU’VE SUFFERED TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE.Wrist broken, badly sprained ankles, concussion, wrist sprains couple of times, run over on waist. Dad says a broken bank.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR RIDING?Over to Oz, America, Europe.

IF YOU COULD BE A SUPER HERO, WHOM WOULD YOU BE?Ironman or Hulk.


Life as a cultural anthropologist and documentary filmmaker

[ INTERVIEW BY ANITA KERR ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY TIFFANY CONE ]

MEET TIFFANY CONE. CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGIST AND DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER. RESEARCH INTERESTS INCLUDE: SUFISM; ANTHROPOLOGY OF RELIGION; PHILOSOPHICAL ANTHROPOLOGY; EMBODIMENT; PROCESSES OF SELF-CULTIVATION; VISUAL ANTHROPOLOGY AND FILMMAKING; CINEMA AND ART.


What made you choose this career path?

When I think about how I chose this career path - being an anthropologist and filmmaker - I am taken back to a very particular time and place. In 1994, when I was 11, I lived in Jakarta, Indonesia for a year while my father did fieldwork there. I finished my school-work via correspondence as fast as I could, and then became very immersed in learning the local language, writing stories and getting to know the local people. It was a magical time, and in hindsight only grows even more so.

When I returned to New Zealand and got back into my school uniform and sat down at the back of a classroom, I will always remember thinking - knowing - that I'd never feel quite the same again. The experience changed me profoundly and I knew that travel, movement, adventure, other worlds, were going to shape my life.

When I went to university for my undergraduate degree in 2001, I studied a wide range of humanities and arts subjects, including film and art history. In the end, however, anthropology struck me as the most open-minded and expansive, and I could see that through it I could connect to my experiences in Indonesia as a youngster. It also allowed me to draw on insights from so many other interesting disciplines, such as media and communications, psychology, political science, philosophy, and art history, and I was able to travel and learn new languages at the same time.

Can you summarise what a cultural anthropologist means in a nutshell?

Essentially, a cultural anthropologist studies human societies and all of their complexities, patterns and contradictions. We are comparative in our approach, and promote long periods of fieldwork on the ground with communities and individuals.


What do you love the most about your field of research?

My field of research has up until now been in the area of the anthropology of religion. I have long been fascinated by different world religious and philosophical traditions, and how human beings find meaning. This has been my primary motivator in undertaking my PhD in anthropology.

What would you consider your most amazing moment whilst investigating foreign cultures?

Too many to count! The moments that stand out for me are the times when you feel a true connection with someone or someplace - however brief or random. For example - standing in the dark on the back of a ship as it drifted along the Yangtze River; travelling through the achingly beautiful landscape of Tibet with my father; sitting beside the Ganges River in Varanasi, India, watching the morning rituals; having dinner in a bar called Cloud 9, on the 87th story of the Shanghai Jinmao Tower, as the night lights of Shanghai city twinkled below; sharing a hot meal and a cup of tea with a family in remote China; making a new friend in Tibet and keeping in touch with her even now - almost 13 years later - the list goes on!

Where was the last trip you went on? What was the purpose of your visit?

The last real overseas trip outside of Australasia was in 2012 when I was in China finishing the fieldwork for my PhD. I was based at Lanzhou University in Northwest China where I conducted my research for one year.

"THE MOMENTS THAT STAND OUT FOR ME ARE THE TIMES WHEN YOU FEEL A TRUE CONNECTION WITH SOMEONE OR SOMEPLACE – HOWEVER BRIEF OR RANDOM."

You wrote a PhD called “Charismatic Embodiment and the Role of a Sufi Order in a Chinese Muslim Community". In summary, what does 'charismatic embodiment' mean? How would you explain your PhD to a layperson?

Essentially, my PhD thesis was about the cultivation of spiritual power in a religious community. How was spiritual power created, embodied and perceived? In Sufism, this spiritual power is known as 'baraka', and in the social sciences it's often been called 'charisma'. Hence the phrase - charismatic embodiment. To answer this question, I was exploring the practice of Sufism in a small community in Northwest China.

What would you advise other aspiring anthropologists?

Anthropology to me is a mindset, a particular approach to seeing the world. The discipline can encompass anything and everything and can lead to such interesting questions. If you like holistic, broad thinking about human nature and society, then you will love anthropology! At the same time, this holistic stance really lends itself to being coupled with other disciplines - such as art, music, neuroscience, medicine, or film-making. If you are starting out with anthropology as an undergraduate, I'd recommend you combine it with something else more specialised as well.

What would you say is the main goal of your filmmaking?

The main goal of my filmmaking is to educate and inspire. I feel that film is a powerful medium to share and


communicate complex social histories and contemporary issues. Film complements anthropology really well in that you are exploring the social world but presenting it in a much more accessible and probably more popular medium. I also feel that film has the potential to be a wonderfully therapeutic art form - in that it enables individual stories to be told and shared relatively easily these days.

What was the subject or your last film?

The last film I made was an educational documentary called Living Chinese Philosophy. It was about the main ideas of Confucianism and Daoism in China and how they play out in daily life. Prior to that project, I made a film about tropical beekeeping for NZ Aid. My uncle was a beekeeper in Fiji for quite a number of years and had established a successful business there. We decided it would be quite useful to make a film about the beekeeping process that the local community could use in the future.

Where to from here?

I have just been accepted for a Teaching Fellowship with an NGO called Filmmakers

without Borders. I will be working at the Asian University for Women in Bangladesh for one year from August 2015. This is a wonderful opportunity to utilise creativity for the empowerment of others.

As part of this fellowship, I will be teaching filmmaking and also working on a series of films. One feature film I'd like to make would be an observational piece about a Sufi or Buddhist temple site. Another film I'd like to make would be with the students, exploring ideas of 'home' and mobility.

In the future, I'd love to continue to teach anthropology at a university and to make films. Depending how this fellowship goes, I'm also considering taking up some clinical training in art therapy, somewhere down the line in years to come. Let's see!

"ANTHROPOLOGY TO ME IS A MINDSET, A PARTICULAR APPROACH TO SEEING THE WORLD."

See more about Tiffanys' work at vimeo.com/tiffcone


THERE IS A FRESH MUSIC DUO ON THE SCENE IN CHRISTCHURCH AND, ALTHOUGH THEY’VE DROPPED ONLY TWO TRACKS SO FAR, THEY’LL EXCITE YOUR EARDRUMS IN A WAY THAT COULD ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS MAGICAL. VOCALS FROM RACHEL MAHONEY ARE SMOOTH AND SOULFUL, AND LYRICALLY SHE’LL STEAL YOUR HEART. STRUAN FINLAY IS THE MASTERMIND BEHIND THE BEATS THAT MOVE FROM A LAX LIVING ROOM FEEL INTO SOMETHING THAT WILL HAVE YOU FEELING READY TO SLIP ON YOUR CLOSEST DANCING SHOES AND BOP ALONG IN A GROOVY FASHION. THE FULLER RECENTLY GOT THE CHANCE TO HAVE A CUPPA WITH THE PAIR AND DISCUSS THEIR MUSICAL GENIUS SOME MORE.


[ ARTICLE BY BECKY WATSON ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY BECKY WATSON ]



How did you two first get into making music together?

R: We went to high school together and have been mates since we were 16, and both love music, I guess. There was never really an official starting point of Capitale - it just grew on its own.

S: Yeah, we were both really keen to get into making music, having come from musical backgrounds. We're good mates, so we just went for it.

Is there anything in particular that stirs your creativity?

R: I’m inspired by people, their stories, their emotions, and the way we all experience life in a completely different way.

S: ...and fairy lights in the studio. The nice vibes help our creativity.

Do you have any story behind the name of your duo?

S: 'Capitale' describes a peak, or high point of something; other than that, not really. I initially liked to think of it as meaning top notch vibes.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?

R: Kimbra - without a doubt she is my number one vocal inspiration.

S: Kimbra! Yes, and we're both quite into Oh Wonder. They're a bit high spec though. We've only just started; who knows what's in store later on.

I’d love to hear three words to describe your music style...

R: Poetic, Relaxed, Fun.

S: Chill, Swervy, Fun.

I hear you two are planning on releasing songs monthly. Is there anything that has influenced this decision, and can we look forward to an EP release at some time in the not so distant future?

S: Yeah, we'll be releasing songs at least once a month. We are trying this out to set a personal goal, but also so our fans can keep hearing from us. We've started off on SoundCloud, which is perfect for monthly releases. And yes, we are planning on an EP sometime after a bunch of monthly releases.

Rachel, I know aside from music you also study at CPIT. How do you find balancing Capitale and assignments and such? Struan, feel free to drop any wise words of wisdom, as I understand you also study at Jazz School. How does this tie into this music project?

R: I’m currently studying Social Work and it’s not too hectic at the moment; Social Work has a lot to do with knowing yourself and understanding how you work and what you want, and this often ties in nicely to our music. Exploring ourselves, ideas that go beyond our own lives, and how we see the world.

S: My music degree is very time consuming, and is a separate entity to our duo, even though it is music. Having said that, I've been exposed to a whole world of inspiration from my studies.

IF YOU’RE KEEN TO CHECK OUT SOME MORE CAPITALE GOODNESS, HEAD OVER TO THEIR SOUND-CLOUD PAGE ‘CAPITALEMUSIC’ AND GIVE YOUR EARS A MUSICAL TREAT.


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A HERO IGNITES A DORMANT PASSION WITHIN YOU AND INSPIRES YOU TO ACT UPON IT. MY HERO, DR LIBBY WEAVER, WAS THE CATALYST NOT ONLY FOR MY HEALTH BUT ALSO FOR HONEST ORGANICS.

[ ARTICLE BY ALEX POLE ] [ PHOTOGRAPH BY EMMA GROOM ]

The Honest Organics story goes a little something like this: as a University student, I had no clue about the impact food had on the human body. I had constant stomach pains, average skin and mouth ulcers. After many trips to the doctor and rounds of antibiotics for non-existent stomach infections, one doctor mentioned a gluten-free diet and exploring a diet for irritable bowel syndrome.

Fast forward to my 21st birthday, the marker of my final gluten day (the cake was too epic to say no to!) and the day my diet changed for the better. My first gluten-free summer coincided with discovering Dr Libby’s book, Rushing Woman’s Syndrome, and her message struck a chord. After becoming obsessed with all things health, I contacted her team and learnt about the volunteer programme at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Australia, where Dr Libby was a nutritionist.

Post Gwinganna and University, I began studying with the Naturopathic College of NZ, yet stopped due to Honest Organics and working.

Although my lifestyle got healthier, my gut still wasn’t 100 percent, so I ended up seeing a dietitian and embarking on a Low Fodmap diet. Basically, this removes fermentable carbohydrates from the diet. My body malabsorbs fructans (found in things like chickpeas, lentils, garlic, onion and so on).

After University and Gwinganna, I started Honest Organics at the Farmers Market because I couldn’t find many on-the-go, refined sugar-free, gluten-free and organic food items. The original item I was validating at the market was a chia seed-based breakfast bowl, topped with seed cereal. People demanded the seed cereal, so I sold that separately and it has really taken off. I am no longer at the market, but sell online and the product is about to become more readily available.

I hope to grow Honest Organics into a go-to health brand for New Zealanders. I want New Zealanders to be involved in growing this brand into something people want to be a part of. The brand will expand to become a lifestyle brand.

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FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER, I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED BACON; IT’S CRISPY AND TASTY AND EVEN VEGETARIANS CANNOT RESIST THE SMELL OF BACON. BACON MAKES PEOPLE HAPPY. I FOUNDED BACON BROTHERS WHEN I MOVED BACK HOME TO CHRISTCHURCH AND STARTED TRAINING AS A PILOT. I NEEDED A WAY TO PAY THE BILLS AND I NEEDED SOMETHING WITH FLEXIBILITY SO THAT IT COULD FIT AROUND MY AVIATION TRAINING. A UNIVERSITY FRIEND HAD A FAMILY FARM AND NEEDED SOMEBODY TO SELL THE BACON AT THE CHRISTCHURCH FARMERS MARKET. HERE, BACON BROTHERS BACON CO WAS BORN.

[ ARTICLE BY TROY BILBROUGH ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY EMMA GROOM ]


I started selling the bacon, however I couldn’t sell the volume of bacon needed to make it profitable. I suggested to my boss that they make bacon butties (old English word for bacon sandwich), but they said it was too risky. I then suggested that I buy all of their bacon every week; that way they would make their profit and, if I could get the recipe right, I could make a profit for myself. Overnight, I had turned my boss into my supplier, and I could now make change.

My granddad Hugh is my hero and had inspired me to back myself, to give myself the permission to become an entrepreneur, instead of injecting my time and passion into building somebody else’s dream. My granddad had lived until 103, and he was

wise and lived an amazing life. He was honest and hard-working, and I set out building a business built on those principles.

It was then Bacon Brothers was born. My brother Jai and I launched into business; sales grew week on week, and demand always exceeded supply. I never had trouble waking up early on a Saturday morning for the market. As it was truly important to me, I didn’t require outside motivation; I was truly inspired from within to serve my customers the most amazing Bacon Brothers experience.

It was then I met one of my heroes, Jamie Bennett, chef and then owner of the Farmers Market. Jamie is a talented chef who creates meals from whatever inspires


him in his day-to-day life, pushing the creative boundaries and blending the boundary between food and art. I worked with Jamie in one of his restaurants and applied a few of his philosophies of sourcing ingredients locally, and experimenting with new flavours and textures. This gave Bacon Brothers the X Factor, with organic, free range and striking combinations, such as Bacon Banana and Peanut Butter, or the Happy Buttie, which is the only burger in the world that comes with a free hug.

Bacon Brothers evolved over the years as customers and staff became part of its DNA. The secret to our success is the driving passion behind the business, and the fact that we are being true to our fundamental philosophies. The positive actions of Bacon Brothers have determined its destiny. In the future I aim to open a flagship restaurant as legendary as Fergburger - a restaurant where people would travel from all around the world to visit; a place of happiness and inspiration. Staff wouldn’t be working; they would be effortlessly doing what they love to do, and the customers would feel the love and want to be part of it.

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THOUGH THE NAME OF THE GAME MIGHTN’T HAVE CHANGED AND THE SKILLS HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR YEARS AND YEARS, THE IDEAS, PRODUCTS, TRENDS, AND PEOPLE USING THEM ARE ONLY GROWING. IN A FRIENDLY INDUSTRY WITH A COMMON LOVE OF PEOPLE AND A LOT OF HARD WORK, THE WORD ‘CREATIVE’ SEAMLESSLY DESCRIBES THE TRENDY AND NECESSARY BUSINESS OF THE BARBERS WHO ARE ATTENDING TO THE HEADS OF THE MANY MEN (AND WOMEN) WHO TURN TO THEM DAILY.

Hello My Name is Barber, My Fathers Barber, and New City Barbers are three unique and cool establishments dotted around Christchurch. Inside each one, we found a number of chatty, interesting chaps behind their respective chairs. We stole a quick five minutes with one from each spot, but armed with the same few questions - to get the buzz on being a barber.

[ ARTICLE BY NIC HETHERINGTON] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA DUNCAN ]

A Cut Above



CHRIS AT NEW CITY BARBERS

q If you’re not busy barbering what would we find you doing?

Hanging out with my family.

q Any particularly memorable moments of your career?

There’s been lots, you know, but I guess just getting to reach and meet a wide range of people and talk to them. Having a good crew. I quite like working with people. I’ve got young Isaac here - it’s his first week as an apprentice (in the chair as we speak). And I’ve got another apprentice in his final year not far away from his qualification, and another guy who contracts himself to me. I went through an apprenticeship. I’m a firm believer in going that way.

q What got you into barbering?

When the government said there was going to be all these guys coming into the city for the rebuild, I thought I’d give it a go. I was looking for a change anyway. It took a couple of years to get it going and then we were away.

q Something that gets you excited about Christchurch?

Just the fact that it’s got such potential!

q The most creative thing about your daily routine?

Definitely the work; we get a really wide range of customers that come in. We focus a lot on the classical and heavily technique based - yeah, it’s definitely the work. We stay pretty busy all day every day.



I sit at home and I’m like how can I make my cuts better, how I can do this better – you know what I mean?


It’s always been home. I love the people. I think Cantabrians are people who have a lot more time for people. You know, you’re walking down the street and you’re definitely going to get a smile or like a ‘hi, how are ya’.

ENJALAS AT MY FATHERS BARBER


I needed a job. I used to cut my friends' hair, heard My Fathers Barber was looking for someone, so I came in and spoke to the boss. He seemed to like me enough to give me a shot. I just fell in love with this shop and the culture of it. I never left school being like I wanna be a barber...I’ve been here for three months now and I’m loving it, eh. I love people. I’m a creative person and it was a job that catered to that.



Obviously the haircuts; trends come and go – the part where you wanna make it work for them. We’re in an industry that thrives on trends working in and around that.

q If you’re not busy barbering what would we find you doing?

I’ve been youth leading in my church for the past three or four years, so busy doing that or if I’m not there, probably in the gym.

q Any particularly memorable moments at My Fathers Barber?

All the guys in here are so cool. Oh ok yeah, I cut a guy's hair; he’d had dreadlocks for 15 years and I definitely got to know him. It was interesting to see how you can get emotionally attached to your hair. He keeps coming back though; he brought his daughter in and I met her. That’s another thing I love – the relationships that you build.



LEVON AT HELLO MY NAME IS BARBER


I’m not actually even a barber; I’m an owner (though it’s fair to say he seems to know a thing or two about it). I got into it to help out a friend. We’ve been here two years in October.


The prospect of having a shiny new city that the rest of the world is jealous of in five years.


When I get home, I sit in the studio and write music, Drum and Bass, Dub Step...

q If you’re not busy barbering/being here, where would we find you?

Making music, and family times.

q Any particularly memorable moments at Hello My Name Is Barber?

Oh, these people showing up that had been recommended to come here when they were in Amsterdam.


[ ARTICLE BY BECKY WATSON ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY BETH WALTERS ]

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 IS A SIMPLE SERIES OF NUMBERS THAT LOUISE VAN TONGEREN IS VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT.

Louise describes the first five years of parenthood as a ‘very short, very intense and very strange period of life’ and to know there are other parents in the same boat is a real relief. This is where her Facebook page ‘The Chch Under 5s Collective’ comes into the limelight, providing parents with a sense of community whilst sharing ideas about where to take their little ones in this exciting city of ours.


For Louise, the task of raising her new bundle of joy became a whole lot more challenging when Christchurch was shaken and post-earthquake confusion left her with a bunch of questions. “What places are open? What is happening around the city? And where can I meet fellow parents?” Louise began to feel a real need for a community to surround her in this time, and she assumed she wasn’t alone in these feelings. “I remember one day, I had a Plunket appointment, which was cancelled because they suddenly closed my local branch, so I thought I would take my son to the museum - we turned up and, again, it was suddenly closed,” she explains. “I remember sitting in my car feeling this sense of sadness that I had no idea where I could take my child, and wondered if other parents felt the same.”

Louise grew up in Christchurch and loves being able to share this special place with her children. It’s fair to say that, after the quakes rid the streets of such cherished infrastructure, people began to wonder what this place could offer them anymore. However, Louise was reminded the things which really make our city beautiful, and the places children love, weren’t lost; they just needed to be rediscovered by their adventurous little feet. She remembered the hills, beaches, forests, and parks around the place, and expresses that, “It helped me realise that my children weren't necessarily missing out on as much as I feared by growing up in a broken city.”

In an age where technology is so easily accessible, it seemed appropriate for Louise to set up her community online via the social media hub. “I love that it reaches parents who may not necessarily be actively seeking out information and connects them to real world examples of things we can all do every day,” she says.

I REMEMBER SITTING IN MY CAR FEELING THIS SENSE OF SADNESS THAT I HAD NO IDEA WHERE I COULD TAKE MY CHILD, AND WONDERED IF OTHER PARENTS FELT THE SAME

The Chch Under 5s Collective is a community for many people - mums who work full time, dads who have sole custody, teenage mums, grandparents raising their grandchildren, stay at home mums, stay at home dads. “They all come to me asking for suggestions for exactly


the same things,” Louise says. “It has been such an eye-opening and humbling experience from that perspective.” It is clear that, no matter what situation they're in, all parents have similar needs and wants. “We all want the best for our children, we all feel guilt about something, we all need more time, we all face the challenges our little people bring, and we all love them beyond words.”

One thing that is evident about the culture of The Chch Under 5s Collective is that it is all positive. “We all get enough judgement, and quite honestly I think we all need a dose of perspective sometimes.” She sees the importance of support and open-mindedness, as being a parent isn’t always a walk in the park. “Parenting IS a big deal

and it IS hard to know what the right thing is sometimes - but our children are also resilient little things and our happiness matters, too.”

Louise has learnt many things through her experiences as a parent and seeing her online community grow. “I think children get so much out of having time to just be,” she explains. “Time to explore, time to play, time to be bored, time to be alone, and time to be with you, their parent.” There is an emphasis whilst raising kids to always be out and about doing things, but Louise has really grasped the simple idea of letting kids just be kids. “Sometimes, the best thing we can do for them is just take them to the beach and let them be for a while! We all benefit from that.”

THERE IS AN EMPHASIS WHILST RAISING KIDS TO ALWAYS BE OUT AND ABOUT DOING THINGS, BUT LOUISE HAS REALLY GRASPED THE SIMPLE IDEA OF LETTING KIDS JUST BE KIDS


[ ARTICLE BY MATT WALTERS ] [ ARTWORK BY JOANNA INNES ]

How has our public understanding and value of welfare changed in the last 77 years?

In many ways there has been a remarkable consistency of views over the generations. There is a strong commitment to ensuring elderly people live in dignity, helped by New Zealand Superannuation. There is a strong commitment to supporting people who can’t be in paid employment because of accident or poor health. There is a strong commitment to health care for young children and universal education to 16. I think that perhaps we don’t value the importance of quality housing as much as we did 77 years ago, and I think we have become less sensitive to child poverty than would have been imaginable even 30 years ago.

ECONOMIC POLICY IS MUCH MORE IMPORTANT THAN WELFARE POLICY FOR PROMOTING THE WELLBEING OF PEOPLE.

PAUL DALZIEL IS DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE AGRIBUSINESS AND ECONOMICS RESEARCH UNIT AT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, AND A PROFESSOR OF ECONOMICS SINCE 2002. HE HAS PRODUCED NINE BOOKS ON NEW ZEALAND ECONOMIC POLICY, AND MORE THAN 10 TIMES THAT NUMBER OF REFERRED PUBLICATIONS. HE’S ALSO A REALLY NICE BLOKE. HIS WORK, WITH CAROLINE SAUNDERS, ON WELLBEING ECONOMICS POINTS TO A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO THE STATUS QUO. THE FULLER ISSUE CAUGHT UP WITH HIM IN THE ETHER OF THE INTERWEB TO TALK MORE ABOUT THESE HEROIC IDEAS.



In 1959, Condliffe, in his book, The Welfare State in New Zealand, states that, “New Zealand has long set human welfare as its broad policy objective. Some elements of that rather vague concept can be identified with reasonable precision.” How has this changed since?

I think we better understand the importance of individual and community agency in promoting human wellbeing. This means that the State cannot provide welfare to people but, in the words of Amartya Sen, our purpose is to expand the capabilities of persons to lead the kinds of lives they value and have reason to value. People, through their own efforts, should be able

How has our public understanding and value of welfare changed in the last 77 years?

In many ways there has been a remarkable consistency of views over the generations. There is a strong commitment to ensuring elderly people live in dignity, helped by New Zealand Superannuation. There is a strong commitment to supporting people who can’t be in paid employment because of accident or poor health. There is a strong commitment to health care for young children and universal education to 16. I think that perhaps we don’t value the importance of quality housing as much as we did 77 years ago, and I think we have become less sensitive to child poverty than would have been imaginable even 30 years ago.

How do we practically engage with the welfare state?

For most people, the main points of practical engagement are access to education, access to health, and access to superannuation. For some, the welfare state provides an essential safety net at times of great personal distress (after a serious accident, for example, or following the unexpected loss of paid employment). Almost all adults are engaged through payment of taxes that fund the welfare state and, of course, we participate in general elections that determine who

governs the welfare state on our behalf.

Has the value of life and the values that make our lives better changed in the last 75 years?

There have been some big changes over the last 75 years. Second wave feminism in the 1970s resulted in fundamental changes in the participation of women in the labour force, and in public life more generally. Māori cultural values are more widely understood and, indeed, generally welcomed in business, politics and community organisations. New Zealand has become a much more diverse society than immediately after World War II and I think there is a greater commitment to respecting that different communities hold and promote different values within the country’s overall democratic traditions.

PEOPLE, THROUGH THEIR OWN EFFORTS, SHOULD BE ABLE TO ACCESS GOOD HOUSING, GOOD HEALTH, GOOD EDUCATION, AND GOOD LIFESTYLES.


living prevailing in the community, is an essential element of welfare? How does this this resonate in the wellbeing state?

This is absolutely essential for a wellbeing state. Analysis by the Treasury in 2013 reveals that over half of single parents in employment are earning wages well below the living wage, and that the principal earner in 25 per cent of two-adult families with at least one adult in employment is on a wage rate below the living wage. These facts create child poverty that welfare policy is too weak to correct. We have to work much harder at creating productive jobs that provide workers with a living wage as the essential precondition for people’s capabilities to foster their own wellbeing.

The great depression, falling agriculture export prices, and growing unemployment were some of the reasons for the policy development of a welfare state. What is causing another way to be put forward now?

Globally, one of the big driving forces is rising inequality. Thomas Piketty’s book really caught people’s attention because he addressed inequality trends that are evident just about everywhere around the world. Here in New Zealand, the OECD recently argued that a widening income gap has damaged our economic performance more than any other country in the developed world. It will take conscious

A WIDENING INCOME GAP HAS DAMAGED OUR ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE MORE THAN ANY OTHER COUNTRY IN THE DEVELOPED WORLD.

to access good housing, good health, good education, and good lifestyles – this means that economic policy is much more important than welfare policy for promoting the wellbeing of people.

WE HAVE TO WORK MUCH HARDER AT CREATING PRODUCTIVE JOBS THAT PROVIDE WORKERS WITH A LIVING WAGE.

One of the main principles of wellbeing economics is that the purpose of economic activity is to promote the wellbeing of people. Isn’t that what happens already in NZ?

Yes and no. It would not be remotely possible to achieve the levels of wellbeing we do without economic markets and the institutional framework maintained by the government to support competitive markets. But a large amount of policy is designed around objectives such as maximising economic growth, or increasing the value of exports, or creating jobs regardless of whether they pay a living wage. The “trickle-down” rhetoric behind these objectives has failed to prevent the emergence of child poverty as a serious problem over the last 30 years, and is failing to address the urgent challenge of global climate change over the next 30 years.

The ideal of the welfare state has been slowly unpacked. Is it still ok in our society to expect that a self-respecting job, at wages which enable the worker to maintain his family at the level of


policy choices to change these trends, starting with the way we invest in the health and education of the next generation. This is why child poverty is such a seriously damaging blot on our policy landscape.

Could a wellbeing state work?

Absolutely. If you excuse the pun, a wellbeing state works because it would focus on work: investing in people so that they develop valuable workplace skills, and working with industry to create jobs that use those skills to deliver value to consumers and living wages to workers.

How tightly can this be connected to the economy?

It must be embedded at the heart of the economy – participation in the labour force is the way most of us access the material resources we need to create lives we value and have reason to value.

Work and working is not just a welfare issue but also a wellbeing one. Where is focus most needed in the system to increase positive and wellbeing-based participation in the labour force, and where are these jobs going to come from?

I think just about everyone agrees that the key concept is skills formation and

utilisation. The OECD calls skills “the global currency of the 21st century”. The way regions organise themselves to develop skills relevant to their industries will be a major factor in both attracting skilled jobs and retaining skilled residents which, in turn, will be the most important contributor to wellbeing. The old distinction between unskilled and skilled work is breaking down; modern technologies mean that just about all jobs require job-specific skills that create opportunities, but also put new demands on individuals for lifelong learning.

In an increasingly urbanised environment, what particular benefit could wellbeing economics bring to our everyday lives?

Wellbeing economics provides some important insights into the role of local government – including city councils – in promoting the social, economic, environmental, and cultural wellbeing of their communities and their ratepayers. This means rethinking the relationship between local and central government, which I think in this country is too much dominated by central government.

"MODERN TECHNOLOGIES MEAN THAT JUST ABOUT ALL JOBS REQUIRE JOB-SPECIFIC SKILLS."

EACH CITY MUST FIND WAYS TO BUILD ON ITS OWN PARTICULAR STRENGTHS TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES THAT WILL ATTRACT RESIDENTS.


In light of this, many of the world’s citizens in the coming years will live in small to medium cities (SMCs), rather than metropolises. What are the steps SMCs need to take to create a climate for wellbeing, whilst being tied to limited tax income and reduced roles outside of infrastructure, waste and refuse collection? Does it rest on the local city hall/the residents to use a new way of communicating or a new way of working?

There are some very interesting questions about the connections between the large metropolises and smaller cities. In New Zealand, for example, Auckland is obviously our largest city, but Wellington, Christchurch, and Hamilton

are all quite a bit smaller than might be expected given the size of Auckland. I don’t think there is any simple solution; each city must find ways to build on its own particular strengths to create opportunities that will attract residents.

Andrew Dean, in his book, Ruth, Roger and Me, talks about the ideological and generational shifts that have consequentially left younger generations without the benefit of the state welfare that previous generations were able to receive. What are the practical steps that we can take to move towards a better way of doing things in the current climate, and a possible move towards a wellbeing state?

I think there are already some profound changes taking place within many New Zealand families as a result of the shifts Andrew Dean analyses. Grandparents are more likely to be involved in regular childcare, for example, to allow both parents to be in paid employment while their children are young. People with financial security are helping their younger relatives with the cost of tertiary education. This is reinforcing some of the inequality trends, of course, but it does emphasise that the practical steps do not all belong to the State.

So there is hope?

There is hope, I think, but also anxiety.

THE MORE WE GET OUT AND ABOUT AND DISCOVER WHAT OUR CITY AND ITS NATURAL ENVIRONMENT MIGHT HAVE TO OFFER, THE BETTER OUR CITY WILL BECOME.

I THINK THERE ARE ALREADY SOME PROFOUND CHANGES TAKING PLACE WITHIN MANY NEW ZEALAND FAMILIES.


[ ARTICLE BY BECKY WATSON ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY BECKY WATSON ]

NESTLED NEATLY ON THE CORNER OF VICTORIA STREET AND PETERBOROUGH, YOU’LL FIND A PLACE WITH CHARMING MISMATCHED FURNITURE AND RICH KILLER COFFEE, TO MAKE THOSE CHILLY MORNINGS SLIGHTLY MORE BEARABLE. BLACK AND WHITE COFFEE CARTEL, OWNED BY THE CHEERY 'BINK BOWLER', NEEDS TO BE ADDED TO YOUR ‘PLACES TO VISIT’ LIST ASAP.

BLACK & WHITE



It is the small things that captivate me about cafe visits, and Black and White delivers on all the tick boxes in my subconscious when I head for a warm beverage and bite to eat. The sweet tunes of Bobby Darin’s Beyond the Sea lull me into a comfortable mellow mood, as I observe the mismatched, yet supremely aesthetically pleasing, decor. Light bulbs hang warmly above the wooden tables that stand over a variety of homely chairs, and old vinyl adorns the wall I see as I glance over to the friendly cafe staff making my brew. Native Americans and giraffes sit in quirky frames hung in a charmingly crooked manner on the surrounding walls of the cafe. The high ceilings soak up the chitter chatter of satisfied customers, allowing me to continue bobbing along to the tunes as my mocha comes swinging over.

Havana coffee (hailing from windy Wellington) runs through all of their espresso machines and, for those looking

for something a little more interesting, they also stock Proud Mary’s of Melbourne over at their filter bar. I’d drop them a visit to see what coffee delights in particular are on offer, as my words will do no justice to the selection at hand, although I can safely say they’re bound to serve you a cup that will make your taste buds dance. They also stock a sweet range of teas from Storm & Indian Tea Sisters, including a delightful coconut chai. I am more than pleased with the rich chocolatey taste of my warm mocha, and sadness looms as I reach the bottom of the cup.

Their food options are primo, with a cabinet lined with Cakes by Anna, and stocked with delicious salads by Simo. You could also opt for hot soup to warm a chilly belly, or perhaps, like me, you’re a sucker for a good bagel, which they also provide.

I linger for a fair while longer, as I am so thrilled by the playlist rolling out that I’m not yet ready to pull myself back into the


cold breeze. Catching a glance of the funky takeaway cups, I pull myself up to the counter again to order a second beverage for the road. The perfect brew warms me from the inside as I farewell the Cartel, sure to return between the hours of 7 am and 5 pm any weekday, or perhaps a weekend visit between 8 am and 6 pm. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, so I would recommend you drop by Black and White sometime in the very near future to fulfil your cafe needs. Be sure to give them a like on Facebook while you’re at it, and stay updated with what the winter months have to offer at 83a Victoria Street, where “it’s always a pleasure, never a chore!”.


It’s one thing wanting to have a significant and good impact on the environment. But actually setting out to do something about it is quite another story. The Fuller Issue heard from local entrepreneur, Brianne West, about Ethique (previously known as Sorbet), the cosmetic company she has brought to life.

With an avid interest in science, an obvious passion for sustainability,

and the business know-how learned from two previous start-ups, it just so happens that Brianne West might have all the right ingredients to disrupt (for good) the cosmetic industry as we know it.

With the knowledge, vision, and drive to get going, Brianne set about making Ethique products in a less than conventional form. With a striking point of difference to any shampoo I’ve ever used, all the products are 100 percent solid bars.

Always interested in making her own “stuff” and wanting to get rid of the “ridiculously over- packaged products” we are all too familiar with, Brianne tested the current Ethique range on herself first and then with family and friends. Products that have been created have also been shared with selected Facebook fans who play a part in the time-consuming, but vital, process of research

and development (and sometimes even in the naming of new goods). Humbly boasting a collection that caters for everyone and reaches to include even a self-tan solid bar, these are new, interesting and natural products that will keep everyone in the household looking ‘shim and shiny’.

Ingredients for the solid bars are sourced all around the world and, while Brianne says buying local would be nice, the reality is most of the ingredients Ethique needs and uses in its products are simply not grown in New Zealand. Ethique does use only growers who practise sustainability, and products are all vegan and cruelty free, certified climate neutral, and packaged with water-soluble or recyclable solutions. Whoa! This is a nifty consumable you can feel good using because it is certainly not going to harm you or our planet.

Working with a creative team of designers and cultivating innovative ideas for

Time to Shine

[ ARTICLE BY NIC HETHERINGTON ][ PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETHIQUE]


Bringing the Ethique ‘friends’ even closer to the company is their recent ‘Pledge Me Equity Campaign’. Opening to the public to invest and purchase equity in the company was a necessary move to source capital and be able to grow. “There are lots of ways to do that, but the idea of getting our fans and those who have supported us from the get go on board was really tantalising”. At the time this article was written, the campaign had made $200,000 already, kicked off by a successful launch party at Ballantynes early in June, and had blown Brianne away with the support, further validating Ethique in the market.

Ethique makes it simple to “be the change” and, alongside equity shareholders, anyone purchasing the quality solid bars should be absolutely proud of this Christchurch conscientious cosmetic company that is playing its part in helping to create a beautiful planet, and paving the way for other global brands to, frankly, lather up.

branding and packaging in the lab, Brianne says to “watch this space” as they are set to soon roll out their amazing new line-up of solid bars. Already having saved 33,000 bottles from being made and disposed of, and now with the goal and a big driving force, the aim is to make 330,000 and generously donate 20 percent of profit to charities! (Cue applause.) It's no ‘Wonderbar’; Brianne has such a clear heart and dedication to the Ethique brand, and this clever, cool cosmetic genius surrounds herself with and seeks advice from a team of mentors in different fields - all keen to support this sustainable and ‘clean’ endeavour.

If success can be measured only by the track record so far, Ethique is setting new levels in this industry and is well on the way to achieving Brianne's ambitious goals: to develop into a global sustainable beauty brand and be able to invest in partnerships with great causes.


These aren't the Droids you're Looking for

JASON AND FRANCESCA WINIATA SEEM LIKE NORMAL FOLK AT FIRST GLANCE BUT, IF YOU DIG A LITTLE DEEPER, YOU WILL FIND OUT THAT THEY ARE ACTUALLY EVERYDAY SUPERHEROES. GROWING UP WITH STAR WARS, THEY HAVE A LOVE FOR THE FILMS WHICH HAS DEVELOPED INTO A FULL-BLOWN LIFESTYLE CHOICE, INCLUDING OWNING SEVERAL STAR WARS COSTUMES THAT THEY WEAR TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY AND CHEER UP SICK KIDS IN HOSPITAL.

[ ARTICLE BY SALLY DAVIES AND MICHAEL NICOLL ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA DUNCAN ]



One warm winter's afternoon, The Fuller Issue caught up with Jason and Francesca to find out how strong The Force is with these two.

q WHEN WERE YOU FIRST INTO IT?

Francesca: Since 2011. Jason started it. Jason already had a collection of Star Wars figures and was talking with Hugh from Real Collectibles in Queenstown. Hugh suggested meeting up with a couple called Wendy and Centuri because they also have a Star Wars collection - we didn't realise he meant that they had Star Wars costumes! We met them and hit it off straight away. Jason was blown away by the costumes and immediately wanted one of his own. He wasn't put off by the 40–100 hours of work needed to create the costume, as you have to cut it, construct and paint it. At the time, I wasn't too bothered but, when I actually saw Jason working and constructing the costume, I thought – wow, that's cool; I want in.

q IF YOU COULD BE ANYONE IN STAR WARS WHOM WOULD YOU BE?

Jason: Darth Maul.Francesca: Asajj Ventress.

q WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER?

Jason: Darth Maul. Francesca: Obi-wan from the newer episodes - Ewan McGregor really epitomises the character. Alec McGuiness didn't do the character justice in the original films.

q HOW MANY STAR WARS COSTUMES HAVE YOU GOT?

Jason: Just the one; I used to have two. Francesca: Three. Concept Ventress, Fem Stormtrooper and custom Mandolorian based on Boba Fett.

q LIGHT OR DARK?

Jason and Francesca: Dark!

q WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE STAR WARS FILM OUT OF THE ORIGINAL THREE FILMS?

Jason and Francesca: Empire Strikes Back.

q WHO'S THE EMPEROR IN THE HOUSEHOLD?

Francesca: Jason thinks that he has power and control, but it is an illusion!

AFTER THE EARTHQUAKES, I WAS REALLY STRESSED OUT HAVING TO DEAL WITH THE TRAUMA, UPSET AND THE INSURANCE COMPANY. I FELT HELPLESS. THEN SOMEONE SUGGESTED TO ME IF YOU CAN'T HELP YOURSELF, HELP OTHERS. SO I DID.

q WHAT'S THE BEST THING YOU'VE EVER DONE IN YOUR COSTUME?

Francesca: We regularly visit Ronald McDonald House throughout the year and for Christmas and Easter Egg Hunts. We also visit the cancer ward in hospital to cheer up the sick kids going through chemo and radiotherapy.

q WHAT'S THE WEIRDEST THING YOU'VE EVER DONE IN YOUR COSTUME?

Jason: I'm not answering that question! Francesca: No comment!



q WHY DID YOU GET INTO CHARITY WORK?

Jason: After the earthquakes, I was really stressed out having to deal with the trauma, upset and the insurance company. I felt helpless. Then someone suggested to me if you can't help yourself, help others. So I did.

q HOW DOES THE CHARITY WORK COME ABOUT?

Francesca: People contact us via websites and forums to attend events. Lucasfilm have given us permission to use their copyrighted imagery for non-profit purposes, so when we are asked to attend an event we ask for a donation to be made to a charity of their choice. We have spent countless hours on our charity work over the last four years. We are given a stand for free at Armageddon, which is NZ's largest entertainment expo and runs over two days. All of the money we raise goes to charity.

WE ARE GIVEN A STAND FOR FREE AT ARMAGEDDON, WHICH IS NZ'S LARGEST ENTERTAINMENT EXPO AND RUNS OVER TWO DAYS. ALL OF THE MONEY WE RAISE GOES TO CHARITY.

q HAVE YOU CONSIDERED ROBBING A BANK IN COSTUME?

Jason: Funnily enough, yes! Francesca: Can't say that I have, but it would be amusing.

q PLACE YOU WOULD LIKE TO GO WEARING YOUR COSTUMES IN CHRISTCHURCH, BUT CAN'T?

Jason: Honestly, there is nowhere that we can't go. It's amazing how many places you can go, even places with strict dress codes. Everyone seems to want to take photos of us.

q WHERE'S MECCA?

The Star Wars Celebration every three years. It switches location each time between the USA and Europe. Also The Rancho Obi-Wan Experience in California.



[ ARTICLE BY NIC HETHERINGTON ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROGUE SOCIETY ]

Three and a half years of market research, product development, design, brand, and positioning; vigorous testing with New Zealand’s top bartenders and gin lovers (and haters), and much micro-distilling... Finally, there was the eureka moment when the perfect ‘Rogue Society Combination’ was created. The process to craft a bottle of this fine, citrus-based spirit takes just over three days. “It’s the beauty of the gin from a production perspective." First, the particular twelve ‘Rogue’ botanicals are macerated for a day. Distilling takes around 24 hours and is followed by a further 24 hours of steeping. Then it's the bottling.

The striking deep bottles give a strong visual presence, emphasising the Rogue Society ‘character’ and its positioning as a product. Inspirational aspirations for the brand are achieved, with the excellent beverage being sought after by more than simply thirsty gin connoisseurs. One of the more memorable moments of the journey to date: RS has already put a dent in the world ‘gin’ stage, claiming a few eminent international accolades, including outstanding silver in the 2014 IWSC for their

40% proof dry gin. “We always thought it was good, and consumers and bartenders always told us it was good, but to get it from these sorts of people - it was kind of, yeah well, pretty memorable I guess.”

IN A BOTTLE THAT TELLS A TALE, ROGUE SOCIETY IS A PREMIUM ARTISAN GIN CRAFTED HERE IN THE HEART OF CANTERBURY. A BRAND BORN IN NEW ZEALAND FROM AN IDEA ON A BIT OF PAPER, IT HAS ALREADY BREWED AND SOLD OVER 11,000 LITRES IN THE LAST YEAR, AND CO-FOUNDER MARK NEAL SAYS ROGUE SOCIETY IS STILL IN ITS INFANCY AND REALLY ONLY "TIPPING THE ICE" IN TERMS OF WHERE THEY WANT TO TAKE IT.

THE PROCESS TO CRAFT A BOTTLE OF THIS FINE, CITRUS-BASED SPIRIT TAKES JUST OVER THREE DAYS.

The epic combined knowledge within the small team has played an obvious part in the success of the enterprise and journey so far. Skills comprising running a business, strategy and marketing, mixology and, obviously, nose for a good gin, are all vital elements that contribute to what makes Rogue Society tick. Mark mentions the importance of “creating and surrounding yourself with the right people to achieve the goals you want to achieve". Take a look around their website and you’ll soon realise they hold the brand and the liquid equally as important as each other. The storytelling and design immediately outline the


professionalism and sure quality that Rogue Society bring to the table. “A lot of products out there will have a fantastic brand, but their product won't taste as good as the brand looks”.

With culture as a focus, they now work exclusively with Zambesi in the fashion field, and musicians Electric Wire Hustle and Midnight Gallery, to name but a few of their key collaborative creative partners. Keeping them busy at two or three events a week, Mark says, in terms of marketing, they put a lot of emphasis on events with the right people. “For us, events are key because you’re talking to the right target market. It’s a brand that people want to be a part of." And a piece of advice for anyone starting out in business from the lads who were prepared to go the hard yards to get Rogue Society where they wanted: “The number of layers to creating something that you’re 100% happy with; it’s a long process and it’s a hard process. You’ve got to be prepared that you might have one step back, one forward and two back, one forward and two back... it just takes time”.

There’s absolutely no doubt that Daniel, Mark, and Richard have nailed it with their top class gin. With the versatility of the citrus, we can be sure Rogue Society will continue to fill any sophisticated fan’s glass with this delicious option - be it a Rogue and tonic, or a negroni with orange, or a martini with a twist of lemon...

THEY HAD THE DESIRE TO GO FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD AND TURN TRADITION ON ITS HEAD, AND THEY’VE DONE IT.

Rogue Society Gin really is a drop of liquid gold and I’ll raise a glass to that. Chin chin.


Challengingthe way things areUsing creativity to make us think

[ ARTICLE BY MATT WALTERS ] [ ARTWORK BY BEX GIBBS ]


Art should make you think. It should challenge and speak up against the status quo. It should raise questions and leave you thinking. The best art has always done these things. Art is a record of history, of how things are. Bex Gibbs is an artist, ex-teacher and activist. She believes in fighting for the underdog and having their voice heard. The way she intervenes here is through her art, her comic cartoon work and her murals.

To find out more, The Fuller Issue caught up with Bex in a busy central Christchurch coffee shop.

Bex taught in primary schools for 10 years. She remembers always having a passion for art and animation, and it was into the latter part of her decade of teaching that she realised that all her heroes in the creative fields she loved were old men. As time went on, teaching became less of a personal challenge and she started to feel a bit of a hypocrite telling the kids to take a risk and reach their potential when deep down she wanted to test herself and push herself in a new career direction.

So she took a risk and decided to go back to study. As soon as she did this, new doors started opening. She has done murals and work for people around Christchurch. This experience has given her more confidence to continue to try new things, to spark a conversation, and to seek new opportunities.

In New Brighton, she met a local street artist and worked with him to produce murals. Her passion for not letting go of the issues that others aren’t bothered about and speaking up about the things she believes

are wrong keeps her interested and driven in her work. Feminism, socialism, and poverty are some of her key drivers.

She wonders if maybe there is a place for her in the editorial world, communicating a message through image.

BEX CONTINUES HER WORK WITH CHILDREN, HELPING THEM REALISE THEIR POTENTIAL. THIS WORK INVOLVES UNICEF AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.

Maybe one day, she says, she will return to the classroom with a renewed vigour to see learners reach their potential; however, in the mean time, she has a number of projects on the go.


It seems that education is never far away from Bex Gibbs's work however, as proved by her recent work in the Christchurch central suburb of Phillipstown.

The Phillipstown project was key to some of the understanding of how creativity and Bex’s approach could change and influence a community.

Bex was one of the students who worked with CPIT to help the community of

Bex talks about how much the police and local leaders have made a difference in this community.

A visual companion was important in this process to compliment what was happening in the community this is where Bex came in again. Her challenge was how to help foster community pride and get the message out there in a visual way. The challenge was on to visually rebrand a whole community.

There was a competition held with CPIT students, and the options were put out for the community to comment on. They picked Bex’s design for the main logo for the community hub.

“In Phillipstown, the community knew they were important and, through the process of the school's closing, they wanted to make sure the government knew about that. They felt the heart was removed. They didn’t want this spirit to die. So they turned this resentment into a positive creative development process; they’ve just gone ahead and done it.”

“It’s the real world application of good design that made such a difference to me here.

Bex isn’t the sort of person who waits around for things to happen to her. Rather, she makes things happen for herself and others.

BEX ISN’T THE SORT OF PERSON WHO WAITS AROUND FOR THINGS TO HAPPEN TO HER. RATHER, SHE MAKES THINGS HAPPEN FOR HERSELF AND OTHERS.

Phillipstown to continue with their development after the decision to close the primary school. Bex talks about the hurt that the community felt in that process but, through the work of dedicated community leaders, they have managed to keep the former school buildings to be used for community organisations and activities: a community hub.


[ ARTICLE BY SHAWN GOUGH ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHERYL WATSON ]

For the past six months, a 17-year-old high school student has been involved in research and development. He has been researching something that piqued his interest when he was twelve, and would become prevalent and motivating for the young man as he entered the world of Natural Living Health Market.

Kieran's interest was kindled when his mother went to see Deidre, a naturopath, and while she was having her bloods read, he studied the bottles and saw the names that didn’t make any sense. He wanted to know from that moment about these names and their meanings. It is this desire that has provided the motivation for the past six months of the research and development period of Nutritiv Oils products. During this period of investigation and experimentation, he wanted to know what a nutrient does, how it works, and how it impacts on the skin.

It is after school on a Wednesday and I am now following Kieran Heath, the CEO of Nutritiv Oils, to his home out the back of West Melton. After heading up a long drive we arrive at his workshop aka home - he is a young entrepreneur keeping his overheads low, so I expect nothing more.

GOODOILS

the



Waiting expectantly on the porch is his financial backer, Kathy (Kieran’s mum). She leads us both in and offers me a hot drink. The house faces the east; I have to imagine how enriching it must be to watch the sun creep across the paddocks that sit beyond the view from the living area.

After he changes, Kieran heads to 'the lab' - their kitchen. Here the materials needed for the creation of his range of natural facial oils and skin care products are revealed. "This is the biggest cost. The start-up materials needed for the mixing process are the biggest outlay financially.” He has borrowed from his mother and has arranged a payment plan to get that original investment back to her. The bench is covered with product and equipment. There is a plastic container that he lifts onto the bench; in it are a number of oils and essences in brown medicine bottles in a range of sizes. Next to this, there is a black toolbox containing his mixing implements: funnels, measuring cups and medicine droppers. Kieran is creating some facial oils today and he instantly grabs one fat-looking brown bottle, inserts the medicine dropper, removes a smidgeon of soft-yellow liquid and places it in another miniature brown bottle. He scans the plastic container for the next ingredient. The process is repeated while he explains why he wants to enter the Natural Living Health Market. “I want to be a Naturopath, be a Doctor of Naturopathy. But it is also about what people put on their face. Sixty percent of what people apply to their face is absorbed into the bloodstream. I have read articles on line about how it can damage your skin due to what is contained in the products. I wanted to see how I can eliminate this from the products and people’s daily routines; to see if it could be done naturally.”

Kieran continues to pour the mixture, then shakes the elements together. It is at this point that Kathy chimes in. “He loves pills. He loves supplements. It’s cost me a fortune.” Kieran laughs at his mother’s insinuation and they both stop for a chuckle. There is

obviously a close relationship between the two and Kathy is certainly proud of her son's ability to learn, understand and create his product range. “He is fascinated by it,” Kathy proudly announces.

It took six months to create his range of facial oils and skin care products. The reason he chose oils is because, as he found out through his research, moisturisers and crèmes don’t really work - it’s a myth.

The name Nutriv Oils comes from further research. Essentially, he wanted it to say nutrient or natural. He looked at a few languages but used the French word for nutrient which is nutritif. To make this name his own, he changed the f to a v and Nutritiv Oils was born.

Kieran knows his stuff. He spent hours a day finding out about DIY methods and recipes, what other brands use, and what works well for the skin. For example he knows that "avocado oil is a heavy oil so best used for dry skin. My suppliers have some guidelines for usage. You have to look at the composition of the oils because it can affect skin.”

So far, the response from the public has been very positive. While he is targeting women, the main consumers of cosmetics, he realises that society has changed a lot and men are becoming more concerned about and aware of skin care and grooming, so Kieran hopes he can broaden his market share. However,

"I wanted to see how I can eliminate this from the products and people’s daily routines; to see if it could be done naturally."


in my product actually be there.” What he means is that some products say they have a certain percentage of an extract but, when you break it down, it doesn’t contain that amount. He wants his product to be honest - to do what it says.

Kieran's marketing strategy thus far has been using Facebook and some markets - such as the Selwyn Youth Market - to get his brand name out and about. He has also had interest from a health shop in Hornby and a beautician who wants to trial his product. He is working with another student George Watson to develop a website for on-line transactions, and this will allow him to keep his overheads low. He has enlisted the help of another to design a new logo for his brand. He has had to learn a lot, and quickly, about the world of business.

Cost-wise, he has assessed the prices of similar products and calculated labour, material costs, and a reasonable market entry price. “His are cheaper and clearly natural.”

Kieran is a young entrepreneur with a mission. The proof is in the pudding because if you look at Kieran’s complexion, you can see how fabulous his skin looks. His mission is to make products that are natural and give customers an honest and clean product. In order for this to occur, he will continue to learn about oils, recipes, and combinations, as well as the marketing and business acumen needed for a company to succeed.

It is stereotypical to think that cleansing and moisturising products are the domain of females but, in this ever-changing world in which we live, one young man is aiming to enter the market with products that actually have natural ingredients and a positive effect on the skin.

the females grill him; they test his knowledge of the products and their benefits and, when he answers them with his intimate knowledge of the composition, they are surprised and trust him as an authority.

Both Kathy and Kieran use Nutritiv and he informs me of his favourite product. "It is an Acid Peel.” He holds it up as he begins to explain why this is his favourite. He looks admiringly at it as tells me about it. “Paste abrasives, like scrubs and exfoliators, actually cut your skin and cause micro-lacerations which age your skin and hurt your skin, so your skin is trying to heal itself; with repeated use, you are further cutting the skin. My product goes deeper and more effectively aids the skin-shedding process. I also aim to make the ingredients


[ ARTICLE BY SHAWN GOUGH ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHERYL WATSON ]

IT IS A HOUSE AND A BUSINESS, YET IT IS MORE THAN THOSE. KINGWOODS SKIS IN LYTTELTON IS HOME TO KRIS AND ALEX HERBERT AND THEIR SON, OBI. TO CREATE IT, THEY HAD TO BATTLE. I WENT IN SEARCH OF A STORY ABOUT SKIS BUT INSTEAD CAME AWAY WITH AN UNDERSTANDING ON HOW PEOPLE NEED TO TREAT WORK AND LIFE.


GOINGOFF PISTE



It is a cold morning in Christchurch and, being the dutiful reporter that I am, I have used Google Maps to find the address of Kingwoods Skis. But, as Sheryl, one of the photographers for The Fuller, and I search for the entrance to the old Lyttelton Rugby clubrooms, I become aware of an error: it is not where it is supposed to be.

This is where I am first introduced to the warmth and kindness of one half of the couple that we were about to meet; all correspondence for this interview had gone through her. I call Kris and tell her our predicament; she can’t believe that the internet is still giving the wrong directions and kindly informs me of their location.

Once parked, we arrive on foot at 14 Norwich Terrace and are welcomed with a massive red 14 on the wall of what looks like the back end to any factory around town.

To say it is unassuming is to sugar-coat it a little. Big doors greet us as we round the end of the driveway and, after a buzz on the door, we meet Alex. He is casually dressed for the temperature - tee-shirt and jeans - and I wonder if he is unaware of the weather conditions outside. Once we are through the entrance, a Tardis-like enclosure reveals itself and the reason for Alex’s casual dress becomes apparent. Looking around, taking in the factory and its layout, there was no indication of the space that hid behind those copper-coloured doors. But wow!

Walking into the cavernous space affects you. Firstly, it was frosty outside and the cold bit at you but, as soon as you go beyond the entrance of Kingwoods Skis, that chill is removed. The temperature is pleasant, comfortable, welcoming even. On my right is part of a stone-covered wall - it is cut into


the side of the hill that Lyttelton’s main street backs onto. Interspersed between these sheets of gravelled walls are concrete and steel pillars that stand to attention and hold everything secure. The architecture is something that strikes you first and the layout of the factory floor, if you can even assign that label to it, and the upper mezzanine, reveals the relaxed nature of the business and Alex and Kris.

As soon as we enter, Alex starts to reveal his sense of pride in the structure and its construction. The story of how this business/home stands before and above me flows naturally, especially as Kris joins us from upstairs. They form a natural tag team explaining how their desire for a workable and liveable space evolved but, as I would find out, you have to be willing to fight for what you saw as right, not just for your family and business, but also for the redevelopment of Lyttelton.

The interview becomes less of an interview and more like passionate story-telling as they recount the journey of their creation of Kingswood Skis and their home. To be proud residents of Lyttelton, Alex and Kris had to make a decision. Unlike many Cantabrians who questioned staying in Christchurch after the 2011 quakes and, after weighing up their options, they decided to make a stand. This would involve taking on the powers that took control of the city after the destruction caused by the events in 2011.

So why did they choose Lyttelton? Well, in their early life as a couple they travelled around a lot but didn’t want to live in Australia or America. Alex loved the buildings in Christchurch so chose this place and here they are still.

“When we were first looking for a home, we were in a Vauxhall and drove around the hills and saw this Alaskan-like fishing village with quaint buildings and we just knew.” And Lyttelton has been their home since 1997.

“WHEN WE WERE FIRST LOOKING FOR A HOME, WE WERE IN A VAUXHALL AND DROVE AROUND THE HILLS AND SAW THIS ALASKAN-LIKE FISHING VILLAGE WITH QUAINT BUILDINGS AND WE JUST KNEW.”

Their house and business are the former Lyttelton Rugby Clubrooms. Kris tells me that the building/premises went to public tender because the club could not afford the renovations bill. Kris, a former journalist, did her research and knew the importance of the place to the township. They were worried “about how their use would affect the community.” During its life span, the

premises had been used for many purposes, including a roller-skating venue. They won the tender and Kingswood Skis is a proud 10-year sponsor of the rugby club.

Kingswood Skis as a brand hit the market in 2005 and the lower floor of the house/clubrooms became the home of the now world renowned brand. In 2009, conversion of the upper level took place; this meant taking the 70s looking bar and renovating it into their living space. Everything was going well. They thought “We can’t believe we live here.” They lived in it for a year. The rest is quake history.

Many were left with a decision to make after September 2010 and, as Alex states, “The quakes provided opportunity for redevelopment, new designs, new developments, but red-tape and restrictions stopped a lot of creativity and meant Christchurch lost some great minds and businesses.”


After February’s quake, the decision to stay and rebuild got tougher for many and Kris and Alex’s business and home was red-stickered. This is where the battle began.

They won the battle and the rights to demolish their own property on their own terms. Again, this benefitted them because they were able to save money. The insurance company wrote a cheque and said ‘see you later’ and, as Kris states, “The insurance company would have spent a third of the money on demolition, whereas we spent a tenth.”

While the battle raged, Alex took the factory to Bromley and continued the business. It was less than ideal. It was colder and it affected the bamboo used in the construction process. For Alex, this was frustrating because the building of Kingswood Skis is a process. He always wants to make quality skis.

When they won the battle, it was a massive wow moment. “Taking on something like this is challenging yourself and your


capabilities,” Kris says. From this small victory, “Other projects have come about because of the success of this endeavour.”

Given the green light given, they knew exactly what they wanted to do, even though they had design limitations because of space. There were other issues to consider as design guidelines for building and renovating in Lyttelton added further restrictions, that is, buildings had to reference Victorian-style buildings. Kris informs me that, even now after the quakes, this document is still being used. Both Alex and Kris agree that the look of a place has to have impact and consideration for the future, but do not agree with holding back promising design ideas and modernisation. This is another battle that Kris has tried to win for the development of Lyttelton as it moves forward. It is, as Alex mentioned earlier, a loss of potential for both Christchurch City and Lyttelton if you try to maintain the past.

Their factory and home are evidence of how you can develop modern urban

living spaces and a place of work without destroying history, but by modernising it. While it may take a little more out of you financially, the final product is breathtaking.

As we move through the factory and their home, we can see it has been created with care and energy. A friend and builder said he would help and, as soon as they began working together, things just clicked. “We put some sounds on and just worked. We worked until we felt like stopping and it just felt right. It became an enjoyable renovation. We worked with passion.”

It helped that they had completed their own demolition because they were able to reuse many of the materials from their own property. For other materials, they ‘wheeled and dealed’. They made decisions that had a cost but, for the couple, aesthetics are more important. The wooden window frames for their living space are an example of this mentality. They cost more but they create a stunning view of the harbour from their kitchen.

After coffee while looking out over the harbour, it is time to depart - we have encroached on Obi’s family time. The Herberts made us feel very welcome. Interviewing was more like meeting new friends who have wonderful stories to tell that make you feel empowered and happy. They treat their life like Alex makes his skis; they are about precision and aesthetics first, which allow you to enjoy what has been created.

THEY WON THE BATTLE AND THE RIGHTS TO DEMOLISH THEIR OWN PROPERTY ON THEIR OWN TERMS. AGAIN, THIS BENEFITTED THEM BECAUSE THEY WERE ABLE TO SAVE MONEY.


“FOR ME, THIS COMMUNITY SPACE IS THE MOST INTERESTING THING WE DO, BECAUSE IT HAS ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES; WHAT FUNDS THIS PLACE IS THE CREATIVITY AND FUN PEOPLE HAVE IN HERE.”


[ ARTICLE BY MATT WALTERS] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSH DUNCAN ]

“It’s a connecting place. It brings lots of interesting people together.”

At the back of Snow Xchange is a gym. This is no ordinary gym. Ever wondered how those snowboarders or BMXers learn how to defy gravity with their back flips and front flips without killing themselves?

THE PEOPLE AND PASSION BEHIND X-TEN COLLECTIVE

Look no further than the X-Ten Gym at Snow Xchange.

The face of the Snow Xchange complex, owner Andy, lights up with excitement. He knows the potential of what he has created.

“X-Ten Gym brings together snowboarders, skateboarders, skiers, surfers and wakeboarders, BMXers and dirt bike riders, break dancers and street artists. They talk to each other, learn their stuff, and amazing things happen. The whole business is X-Ten Collective, and is the umbrella brand for everything, Snow Xchange, X-Ten Gym, Projekt X Espresso."

He tells stories of the interactions among snowboarders, BMXers and skaters - interactions that break down stereotypes and build positive relationships which continue outside of the gym.


“For me, this community space is the most interesting thing we do, because it has endless possibilities; what funds this place is the creativity and fun people have in here. People come to me and say, 'I’ve been looking for somewhere, or I’ve had this idea - can you do that?' I say, 'Ok cool, let's work out how we can.'”

Andy’s enthusiasm for the possible and the new is infectious; he is passionate about harnessing people's ideas around board and urban sports and then making them a reality.

A designer by trade, he spent time overseas before coming back to Christchurch and setting up a small ski and board equipment maintenance business before the earthquake. Since then, Snow Xchange has grown and changed into not only a retail store but also a skill development centre for urban and board and snow-based sports.

Graphic designer Talya lso, who also works and makes things happen at the Gym and

Snow Xchange, goes on to explain that it provides opportunities for four-year-olds right through to over 40-year-olds, all looking to increase their skills and confidence in board sports or their urban sport interest. A professional snowboarding team also trains at the Gym.

ANDY’S ENTHUSIASM FOR THE POSSIBLE AND THE NEW IS INFECTIOUS.

X-Ten Collective’s retail shop Snow Xchange prides itself in promoting and supplying quality, hand-made ski and snow board hardware and soft goods, which are not only functional but also ethical, and support the smaller producers and their products.

Andy points out that, “People are more and more interested and hungry for ethically


produced, quality products. In our café, people regularly ask about what beans we use; whether they are fair trade, etc.”

He explains that in the shop, once people understand the story behind what they are buying, they are more pleased and confident with their Snow Xchange purchase than one from some of the larger ski and snowboard producers that have no “soul”.

YOU GET A FEELING IT'S ABOUT SELLING GREAT PRODUCTS THAT THEY CARE AND BELIEVE IN, TO PEOPLE THEY FEEL THE SAME WAY ABOUT.

“We are passionate about the integrity of our business. This is about doing something because we believe in doing it, and this makes us very conscious about the products we put in our store. It’s important that the products we stock reflect this passion. We make very few gear decisions based purely on what is going to fly out of the door the quickest. We love emerging brands, new brands, and responsible brands. This makes it a little harder to sell the product, but we get to tell the story of the product to our customers, and that is great.”


Andy explains this is a long term goal and business strategy. You get a feeling it's about selling great products that they care and believe in, to people they feel the same way about.

This is a business based around passion for sport, the effect it can have on people’s lives, and the integral link between quality product and customer service that comes from selling the things people need to do what they love to do.

The second-hand Xchange programme allows purchasers either to sell their second-hand ski/snowboards or to trade their second-hand goods, boots, etc for a cash amount deducted from the price of their new equipment.

Andy says this not only encourages new people into snow sports, but also encourages progression and skill development as people improve and need better gear. It also builds relationships and a strong customer base, which is inherent in everything X-Ten Collective does.

THIS IS ABOUT DOING SOMETHING BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IN DOING IT, AND THIS MAKES US VERY CONSCIOUS ABOUT THE PRODUCTS WE PUT IN OUR STORE.



FULLER WINE BAR REVIEW


[ ARTICLE BY ANITA KERR ] [ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA DUNCAN ]

This is a beautiful place. Warm light streams in here on a spring's day and is absorbed into the woodwork creating a glow reminiscent of a Rossetti painting. The Arts and Crafts era has been captured here, with decorative fine-arts detailing in Gustav’s branding through to the rich wooden furniture and wall panelling, all complemented by the old favourite William Morris patterned wallpaper reminiscent of those romantic days.

The food (not to mention the wine list) is to be relished. The satiating menu will satisfy a hungry mouth after hours wandering the delights of the boutique shopping centre; Gustav’s home in the Tannery.

The stunning menu boasts an atmosphere of heavenly-delight cuisine, beginning with rich Mediterranean farmhouse-style platters. Start with the breads at $8 or go large with this beauty - ‘Woolston market Charcuterie, prosciutto, salami,

leg ham, pickles, farmhouse brie, roasted vegetables, olives, cornichons and sourdough’ - for $30.

Ready for a meal with substance? Delve into a winter market vegetable soup for $12.50, followed by an Open Danish Sandwich or, if that is not hearty enough, try the Wild New Zealand Rabbit burgers for $18, or for dinner, slow-cooked pork loin for $29. Alternatively, try the sauteed farmed and wild mushrooms, or the Succotash with potato wedges for $22.

And if the menu doesn't tickle your fancy, Gustav’s hosts events like the RDU pub quizzes, live music and album launches. They have Cassels and Son's beer on tap, but also boast one of the largest wine lists in New Zealand - what more could you ask for?

GUSTAV'SKITCHEN AND WINE BAR

GUSTAV'S WINE BAR IS A HAVEN FOR WINE LOVERS WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST WINE LISTS IN NZ.

GUSTAVS, 3 GARLANDS ROAD, WOOLSTON, CHRISTCHURCH 03 389 5544

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