Kōrero & Kaputi - Talk & Tea Tasting
In the beautiful setting of the historic Bell house, meet Helen Paul-Smith (Tapuika/Ngaiterangi), co-founder of artisan tea blenders ŌKU.
In this informal talk, delve into a sensory world, exploring the flavours and remarkable healing properties of Aotearoa’s native plants. Many of these rākau (plants) have a rich history of traditional use, helping to maintain ora (well-being). Along with more familiar herbs and ingredients, plants such as Kawakawa, Kūmarahou, Mānuka, Houhere, Akeake, Horopito, and Karamū, feature in her teas, elixirs and balms. Many of the plants used are hand-harvested and sourced in the wild, following strict protocol; OKU is conscious of being good kaitiaki (guardians) of the Whenua (land) in this emerging industry, ensuring its sustainability. Helen was Māori Women’s Development Inc Businesswoman of the Year 2022 for Sales & Marketing.
The session ends with a Q&A and the chance to sample ŌKU tea served in the Village’s vintage fine china teacups. Event duration approx. 1 hour. Tickets include entry to explore Howick Historical Village.
Bookings are essential. Book via Eventfinda or email village@historicalvillage.org.nz.
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
Make a hearty dish. Take just half a minute. Add four parts of kestrel. Then just add one. What have you made?
(Trev from Silverdale kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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52.7% Human-centred experience and communication
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15.2% Critical thinking
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29.5% Resilience and adaptability
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2.6% Other - I will share below!
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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