Winter meditations

Since the beginning of this year, whenever I see a property, I find myself compulsively assessing its flood risk. I look at its positioning relative to the road, whether it sits in a depression, whether it’s surrounded by sloping paddocks, bare land, bush or other houses. To be perfectly honest, even after intensely studying these elements, I still have little idea whether the property will flood in an extreme storm. That’s because during Cyclone Gabrielle and the heavy rainfall in Auckland a few weeks before, properties that I always presumed to be in safe locations were inundated with floodwaters.

It struck me, for the first time, that the path of water is an extraordinarily intricate phenomenon, altered and influenced by a thousand factors, most of which are obscure to all but the most learned engineers.

On page 12 of this issue, ecological landscape designer Kama Burwell explores this very topic. Drawing heavily on her training in permaculture and engineering, Kama’s article provides a fascinating overview of stormwater science, revealing the various different ways land and farm management can either exacerbate or mitigate flood risk. Most importantly, it provides some clear and actionable tips to reduce flooding on your property and the surrounding area.

Elsewhere in the mag and on a completely different tack – but still related to the extreme weather – we take a look at the scarcity and cost of pumpkins this year, and some delectable ways you can make a butternut go the distance in the kitchen.

On page 20, Naomi Arnold recounts her journey of discovery with insect life on her block, inspiring us all to start recognising bugs for the extraordinary work they do behind the scenes and beneath our feet.

And finally, on page 52, Josie Adams speaks to one of the only breeders of Raglan Romneys, an incredibly rare sheep breed with only 100 remaining in existence. They’re low maintenance, very charming, and – according to the breeder – the perfect animal for a lifestyle block.