Ed’s letter: Naomi Larkin on the joy of holidays
For me, summer holidays are synonymous with the beach. With long days spent swimming in the sea, getting out only to warm up in the sun on the hot sand before diving back in. And more recently, with my daughter learning to love the ocean where previously it scared her, and seeing her frolicking in the waves — delighted — in the same way I did at her age. Covid has made us all realise just how lucky we are to be living in New Zealand and never more so than when you’re on holiday with family and friends.
The Bay of Islands is recognised as home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and having spent many childhood summers there it has a special place in my heart. So it was lovely to have the opportunity as part of the NZ House & Garden Tours 2020 to visit our Home of the Month — the Opua clifftop getaway of Greg and Diane Haliday (page 28) — last year. The couple rebuilt it in 2015 to maximise the spectacular views across the bay, furnishing it with finds that reference a rich maritime history. Greg and Diane have noticed that when sitting on their verandah during summer “that life can quietly pass you by… day by day”. Just like when you were a kid.
The views from our cover house (page 72) proved to be not just good for the soul but a way of healing for its owner. The New Plymouth architectural award-winning home overlooks The Gap, a surfing spot between East End and Fitzroy beaches, and it was time spent resting and watching the sea, surfers and sunsets that contributed to Craig Nolly’s return to health following multiple surgeries. He and his wife Caroline love their coastal lifestyle, no matter what the season.
We couldn’t have a summer/holiday issue without including a great Kiwi bach (page 50). Rachel and James Porteous’ Waikanae Beach bolthole is just 70sqm but clever thinking by the late Wellington architect James (Jim) Beard means it feels much bigger thanks to high ceilings and exposed beams in each room. Add to that a whole retro look, a sheltered garden full of yuccas and succulents and the beach just a trot away and you have the quintessential holiday home.
Holidays are also about food and for a lot of people that means firing up the barbecue and creating simple delicious fare without fuss. Food editor Julie Le Clerc will get you grilling with recipes like Mustard & Beer Marinated Chicken with Raw Asparagus Slaw (from page 134). Happy holidays.