Gratitude for the community's support
Reflecting on last Friday’s book launch for Memories of the Royal Family A Kiwi Collection fills me with immense gratitude. The support from our community on the day was overwhelming! The buzz in the room was a testament to the power of storytelling, and the strength of our community. It was clear that this collection of stories, written by our Write Your Story community, holds a special place in the hearts of many and generated lively discussion at the tables.
The journey from concept to publication of this book has been a labour of love. Seeing this collection of stories in the hands of the contributors, and other readers was a dream come true. It is a reminder that every story matters, and that our voices have the power to inspire, educate and unite us. A couple of people remarked that this publication was collector’s item!
Reflecting on last Friday’s event I am filled with gratitude for everyone who played a part in making it a success. I loved the way in which people got into the spirit of the event, dressed up for the occasion, and taking the lead from our Mayor Janet Holborow joined in a lively impromptu rendition of ‘God Save the King’. A big THANK YOU to the individuals who shared their memorabilia on the display table for others to enjoy and to friends and family who helped organise, cater, and bring the celebratory event to life, and those who helped to clean up afterwards. It was a reminder than when we come together as a community we can achieve incredible things. Ngā mihi nui.
#CommunityBookLaunch #Grateful #CommunitySpirit #BookLaunchMagic #StrongerTogether
Angela Robertson
Local Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Facilitator
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.1% Yes
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22% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin
In an exciting development for local spirits enthusiasts, Elsewhere Gin has released a limited edition Kapiti expression that truly captures the essence of our coastal region.
This unique gin, priced at $95 per bottle, is the result of a heartwarming collaboration between Elsewhere Gin and Mark Rose's parents and their friends in Kapiti who embarked on a community foraging adventure, handpicking an array of native botanicals including kohekohe, kauri tips, strawberry guava, horopito, and kawakawa. These locally sourced ingredients were combined with classic gin botanicals, lemon, and rosemary to create a spirit that is both familiar and distinctly Kapiti.
The gin offers a sensory journey through our coastal landscape. It opens with subtle vanilla notes from the kohekohe, followed by the sweetness of strawberry guava. The addition of horopito lends a peppery kick, while kawakawa adds a unique herbal complexity. The finish showcases the zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary that grow abundantly in our region.
"This gin is a love letter to Kapiti," says Rose. "It's not just my creation, but a true community effort. Every sip tells a story of our unique ecosystem, our shared knowledge, and the incredible flavors we have right here in our backyard."
With only a small batch produced, this Kapiti gin is expected to sell out quickly. It's more than just a drink; it's a bottled experience of our local terroir and community spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the finer aspects of craft spirits and the beauty of our coastal home.
Available exclusively through Elsewhere Gin, please contact Michael Anderson for this limited edition gin that offers a rare opportunity to taste the Kapiti coast - and its community - in a glass.
Michael Anderson
021 620 065
Email; michael.anderson@xtra.co.nz
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.