Innholdsfortegnelse for November 2025 i Australian Women’s Weekly NZ

My one and only child arrived in the world after 14 hours of labour, an epidural and some determined assistance from a ventouse. The hours immediately after his birth are hazy – at one point, I’m told I slipped into speaking with a Scottish accent, which I’ll generously put down to exhaustion and the overwhelming enormity of the moment. But there is one memory that remains crystal clear. In the stillness of that first night, I remember watching him sleep in his tiny, clear bassinet beside me, while the lights of Auckland shimmered outside the hospital window. I looked from him to the city and thought, “It’s up to me to prepare you for all of this – the good, the bad, the beautiful and the difficult. And I have…

By the age of 13, many Kiwi kids have smartphones, social media accounts and are disappearing for hours at a time into their own private online worlds. Not so for Cecilia’s eldest son Tom. Instead of the latest device or gaming console to celebrate the teen birthday milestone, his parents gifted him a dumb phone (a mobile phone lacking internet connectivity but with calling and texting function), money for his Sharesies account and a newspaper subscription. While his mates might be looking at social media on the school bus, Tom catches up on current events. “For us, it’s about parenting differently in a digital world,” says Cecilia, who is also mum to Leila, nine, and Charlie, four. “We can’t get rid of technology and in many cases it’s very useful.…

It was just as Princess Anne was about to mark her 75th birthday in typically unshowy fashion that a ghost arose from her past. Fortified by a lifetime’s devotion to duty, the Princess Royal is a woman well-prepared for almost anything – except perhaps the return of the bizarre figure behind one of the most shocking events in modern royal history. On the night of March 20, 1974, as Anne and her then-husband, Captain Mark Phillips, were returning to Buckingham Palace in a chauffeured limousine, they were ambushed by Ian Ball, a 26-year-old gunman whose plan was to kidnap the princess, then demand a £3 million ransom from her mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Four people, including Anne’s police bodyguard, were shot before the chance arrival on the scene of a…

The apple blossoms in the spring will always be a reminder of that more innocent time, of sweetness and optimism, of a time before the terrible, ugly loss. Before Niamh Maye went apple picking and never returned. Niamh was the youngest of Brian and Anne Maye’s seven children, who had grown up running wild across their seven-hectare hobby farm at Armidale. Both Anne and Brian had spent their working lives at the University of New England. Brian had a PhD in agricultural geography; Anne had a Master of Education. She won the university medal while she was pregnant with Niamh. Their youngest daughter was creative. She read a lot and wrote short stories. She made a film – writing it and borrowing camera gear. Niamh went to France on exchange…

Leonardo da Vinci was right: The human foot is an architectural marvel; a triple-arch, load-bearing masterpiece in which a quarter of the body’s bones and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments work in concert to carry us through life’s crossings. Yet the seismic force of getting from A to B takes its toll – feet absorb more than twice your body weight just walking and, by the time you’re due to blow out 50 candles on your birthday torte, the plump cushioning on your soles has reduced by up to half. If you’re a devoted “clacker” (high heels wearer), as they were famously referred to in The Devil Wears Prada, you’re probably also battling bunions and pesky callouses by midlife, or perhaps even an extra bone like Sarah Jessica Parker.…

This dish sits comfortably as a main meal, or as a side dish as part of a shared table. The spice blend is extremely versatile and will keep for months. Flavouring your meat with a dried spice blend saves the time it would take to marinate but still delivers a huge kick of flavour. Happy memories of holidays at the Beach with my little sister my Deb, a wonderful, Carefree time. Spiced chicken with brown rice & cauliflower SERVES 4 AS A MAIN OR 8 AS PART OF A SHARED TABLE PREP + COOK TIME 20 MINUTES ½ head cauliflower, cut into small florets ¼ cup flaked almonds 2 x large (600g) chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 250g cooked brown rice, cooled…

NEW ZEALAND Editor-at-Large Sarah Henry Chief Sub-Editor Denise Bowden Art Director Mirella Monteiro Designers Anna Pétursdóttir, Shane Kelly, Béla Trussell-Cullen, Hayley Pearce Photo & Editorial Coordinator Kellie Blizard ADVERTISING Sales Director Claire Chisholm Senior Account Manager Chloe Jordan Senior Commercial Brand Manager Angela Wei Campaign Manager Georgia van Koningsveld Directory Sales Manager Kim Chapman EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Jane Huxley General Manager Stuart Dick General enquiries to: The Australian Women’s Weekly, PO Box 52122, Kingsland, Auckland 1352. The Australian Women’s Weekly may have generated content partially using generative AI, which our editors review, edit and revise to their requirements. We take ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication. For delivery enquiries: delivery@magshop.co.nz. Published by Are Media © 2025. All rights reserved. Printed by Webstar, Auckland. We are... This publication…

For more than four decades, Judy Bailey has been a trusted journalist sharing New Zealand’s stories. Her calm presence guided us through some of the country’s most defining moments. But behind the scenes, Judy has also been a tireless advocate for women and children living with the devastating reality of family violence. As Patron of Women’s Refuge, she has witnessed first-hand the extraordinary courage of survivors and the life-changing work of the organisation that supports them. In this candid conversation, Judy reflects on her first encounter with the refuge movement as a young reporter, the moments that have stayed with her and why she believes ongoing support is so critical. Above all, she pays tribute to the strength and resilience of the women and children who, with refuge by their…

Social media companies might claim their purpose is to encourage connection and build relationships between people globally but this, according to former Xero executive and Kiwibank director Anna, is nonsense. “There is no noble purpose and they do not care about connection, relationships or anything else like that,” she says. “They’re advertising businesses masquerading as technology companies and everything they do is driven by their bottom line. Engagement drives advertising, which makes money. They have no interest at all in limiting who goes on social media or acting more responsibly to keep children off it.” This, she says, is why she joined the B416 movement and became its co-chair alongside Cecilia, because she knows that parents are no match for the likes of Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat or TikTok. Having worked…

Melissa Leong would like to go to Iceland. It’s an off-hand comment, made at the end of a long and tear-streaked conversation about her memoir, Guts, in answer to a question about the future. Does she have some concrete goals, or will she go where the wind takes her? Melissa says it will be a little of column A and a little of column B. “I think you should always leave space for life to happen and for unique offers to come your way,” she says. “Send me to the farthest places that I can imagine and have me do the most unlikely of things and you will probably find that I will say yes.” She singles out Iceland. So we are putting that desire in print and out into…

“It hurts my heart when I can’t play with other kids. I want to, but I don’t know how.” It was heartbreaking for Dr Karina McHardy to hear those words from her young autistic son Max, who was desperate to join in with others, but not feeling able. Sadly, the parents of autistic children are so often told their child is going to be happier on their own. But that is often not the case, as Karina has found. “They absolutely can get there, but it’s often a more circuitous path,” she says before using an analogy to explain further. “My daughter might learn to make her own breakfast – but my son has to build the kitchen first, then he can get on with making his breakfast.” Max was…

I had just turned 31 when I stepped on board the Heritage Adventurer, my suitcase packed for a month at sea. It would take a week of sailing across the infamous Southern Ocean before we crossed into the Antarctic Circle. I had a book to write and I was ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Some of that readiness had come from reading Madhouse at the End of the Earth by Julian Sancton. It tells the story of a rich Belgian seeking glory in 1897 who deliberately got his ship stuck in the ice, dooming his crew to months without sunlight in order to be the first humans to spend winter in Antarctica. Some of them died. Most of them lost their minds. Two men became friends during that…

Brighten your MOOD Complexion boosters Spring’s simplest pops of colour. Fresh find If you’re in the mood for a new fragrance, Prada Paradoxe Radical Essence, $280, is a stand-out choice, with notes of sweet neroli, creamy sandalwood and a twist of salted pistachio. Haircare reimagined Perpetual by Sans [ceuticals] is the world’s first fully waterless, 100 per cent recyclable, zero-waste haircare and bodycare range. Launching with three high-performance hair products – Cleanser, Conditioner Light and Conditioner Rich ($129 each, refills $79 each) – they’re housed in sculptural, refillable canisters, designed to be kept and replenished. Three TO TRY Power serums When your skincare needs a little extra oomph, these targeted treatments deliver visible results, whether you’re after hydration, radiance or an overall boost. If you’re battling dullness ... Ultraceuticals Ultra…

“It inspired me… to help you on your own health journey in the most authentic way I can.” I turned 50 this year and that shift from one decade to another really has given me a moment to pause and reflect on my own health, on what I need to do to get myself in the best shape for the future. And in turn, it inspired me to write this book, to share all the knowledge and insights I’ve garnered over the years, and to help you on your own health journey in the most authentic way I can, which is through delicious, abundant, joyous, beautiful food. When it comes to nutrition, you can be confident that l’ve covered all the bases. I’ve worked within a simple framework of nutritional…

Swedish cardamom morning buns MAKES 12 PREP + COOK TIME 1 HOUR 15 MINUTES (+ STANDING & REFRIGERATION TIME) 1 cup (250ml) milk, lukewarm 2 teaspoons (7g) dried yeast 2 tablespoons white sugar 2½ cups (375g) bread flour 1½ tablespoons freshly ground cardamom 60g unsalted butter, softened ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt 1 egg, beaten lightly ¼ cup (40g) pearl sugar (optional, see tip) ⅓ cup (75g) firmly packed brown sugar FILLING 200g unsalted butter, softened slightly ¾ cup (165g) white sugar 1½ tablespoons freshly ground cardamom ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt TOPPING 1 tablespoon white sugar ½ teaspoon freshly ground cardamom 1 Combine milk, yeast and 1 teaspoon of the white sugar in a medium jug. Cover; stand in a warm place for 10 minutes or until frothy. 2…

Trending in bathrooms Japanese aesthetic Zen simplicity is the hallmark of a Japanese-style bathroom, achieved via minimalist finishes, like large-format tiles or concrete floors, and clean lines in tapware and fixtures. A freestanding tub is an essential feature – make it deep for soaking and lean toward streamlined forms. Similarly, look for simple, modernist interpretations of bathroom essentials like tapware, towel rails and basins. A Japanese-style bathroom achieves a sense of calm with a natural palette of timber, white or subtle shades of green and accents of black. Try introducing timber with batten wall panels, timber venetian blinds or a freestanding slatted screen. Q Ask The Weekly How can I remove a large amount of coloured wax from my carpet? Place an old towel (or newspaper or paper towel) over…

Treatment highlights Shirodhara Therapy: An Ayurvedic treatment aimed at helping stress, headaches and fatigue. Warm oil is poured in a steady stream onto your forehead, scalp and hair. It’s soothing and calming. IV Therapy: A treatment to enhance energy and endurance or help reset your circadian rhythm for better rest. I chose the latter and slept really well. Reiki: A healing technique that uses gentle touch to promote relaxation and wellbeing. I found it great for stripping away emotional baggage. Massage/facial: My favourites: The Signature Three Treasures, aimed at healing the body’s three main energy centres, and the Signature Rose Lymphatic Facial, which felt like a warm hug on a cloud of roses and jasmine. There is a scene in season three of The White Lotus where a group of…

Scorpio Oct 24 -Nov 22 November gets off to a spicy start with the sun, Mars and Venus in your smouldering sign – though trust and lust could cause issues when Mercury backtracks into Scorpio in week three. The sun and new moon joining intriguing Venus and magnetic Mercury in Scorpio on November 20 ensure there’ll be no shortage of sizzling chemistry and emotional intensity to celebrate your entry into your new astrological year. During which, be on the alert for unexpected opportunities to join forces – and possibly finances – in new or renewed partnerships. Sagittarius Nov 23 -Dec 21 Mercury in your voluble sign kicks November off with conversations – both confronting and enlightening – which could spark revelations, realisations and breakthroughs. But during week two, when Mars…

Royal ROUND-UP UP Pageantry and pomp William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales, cut glamorous figures as the royal family hosted US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania for their second state visit with an elaborate banquet at Windsor Castle. Catherine wore the Lover’s Knot tiara, favoured by the late Princess Diana, at the event. Remembering Eldest British royal farewelled Katharine, the Duchess of Kent, was a skilled musician, presented trophies at Wimbledon and graced the cover of The Weekly in 1976. She joined the royals when she wed Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. Hollywood royalty The Oscar-winning actor, best-known for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and Out of Africa, graced The Weekly’s cover in 1976. He was…

There are some moments in life that stay with you, not because they’re dramatic or life-changing, but because they quietly crystalise something that matters to you. For Gemma McCaw, one of those moments came on a recent trip through Wellington Airport with her husband Richie and their three young children. As they headed towards the departure gate, a rugby team of teenage boys milled around nearby. Normally, Richie, one of the greatest All Blacks of all time, would have been mobbed for selfies and signatures. But this time, not a single head lifted as the family made their way through the group. Every one of the boys – and even the adults with them – was glued to a phone. “It just makes you wonder,” Gemma reflects, “what are we…

Former lawyer Nicole always dreamed that her children, Teddy, seven, Otis, five, and Eva, two, would have an upbringing similar to her own. Growing up in Auckland in the early ’90s, she spent weekends and school holidays on the family farm on the Kaipara Harbour. Her days were spent looking after horses, camping, fishing, and exploring with her brother and friends. “I spent a lot of time pottering about on my own, making friends with neighbouring farm kids, reading or just figuring things out for myself,” Nicole recalls. “I often think about who I would have become if I’d spent all of that time on Snapchat instead.” Auckland-based Nicole, who founded shared working space Sinclair House in response to a growing number of people working remotely after Covid, admits she…

The smell of coffee wafts through the cottage, which is warm, even though it’s bitter outside. There’s been a cold snap overnight and a deluge. Raindrops hang in spider webs on the limbs of a peppercorn tree. Lemon trees and a pummelo are in full fruit. Herbs spill over the rims of clay pots in the courtyard, and an immense patch of Daphne spreads its heady scent by the back door. Stone fruit trees are covered in buds about to pop, and beyond the garden, green fields roll towards rows of vines, then forest. Everything appears verdant but “it’s what we call a green desert at the moment,” Maggie Beer explains. I tripped. I lost my balance because meals she truly enjoyed. “After each surgery I would say…

The tranquil, Zen-inspired space doesn’t feel like the nerve centre of a thriving shapewear, fashion and beauty empire. Then again, Jules Robinson – with her abundant curves, flowing red hair and fondness for body-hugging clothes – doesn’t look like the traditional stereotype of a buttoned-up businesswoman. Yet, unlikely as it seems, the former hairstylist has triumphantly turned the tables on school bullies and keyboard warriors who tried to fat shame her in the past. “I wanted to turn pain into power,” smiles the 43-year-old dynamo, who somehow parleyed a reality TV wedding into her real-life happily ever after, complete with two cute kids and a flourishing career. “Great things happen when you’re just yourself,” she says simply, asked for the secret of her success. “Work it and be proud of…

All the inspiration you need to look great for your next beach or poolside sojourn, whether that be diving into a clear blue sea, relaxing on the sand with a good book, strolling along the water’s edge or sipping a cocktail by the pool. COLOUR & PRINT The perfect way to add life to any outfit. Try a bold red or blush pink for some pep. 1. Capriosca Swimwear one-piece, $119.95. 2. Sea Level swim top, $129.95, and bottoms, $59.95. 3. Helen Kaminski hat, $395. 4. Cos shirt, $125. 5. Bokumaia swim top, $90, and bottoms, $90. 6. Uniqlo skirt, $99.90. 7. Fella Swim one-piece, $260. 8. Jo Mercer sandals, $219.95. 9. Kachel dress, $289. 10. Seafolly shirt, $110. ISLAND VIBES Earthy tones and natural materials transport you to that…

Crispy spiral potatoes with rosemary garlic butter SERVES 6 PREP & COOK TIME 1 HOUR 6 long stems of woody rosemary, plus extra to serve 6 medium waxy white or pink-skinned potatoes ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 100g butter 2 cloves garlic, finely grated tomato chutney, to serve 1 Prepare rosemary by removing bottom leaves from stems, keeping tops intact. These will be used as skewers. 2 Using a metal skewer, pierce each potato lengthwise, loosening entry point by re-inserting skewer a few times. With skewer in place, use a small paring knife to spiral-cut potato, starting 1cm from the top and slicing around in 1cm-thick spirals down to 1cm from the base. Remove metal skewer; carefully replace with rosemary stem, ensuring sprig end sits out the top.…

Look for art Keep your eye out for original art or well-framed prints. We’ve found so many beautifully framed paintings for under $5! Seek out frames made from solid timber. (If you don’t love the artwork but you do love the frame, you can always repurpose the frame.) Be consistent and persistent Visit op-shops, markets, emporiums and vintage retailers whenever you get the chance. You never know what special treasure is sitting there waiting for you. We joke that Courtney can’t walk past an op-shop without stopping in! But the persistence pays off. Don’t forget the fabric bin Op-shops usually have fabric offcuts. We’ve found so many pretty vintage fabrics this way. We also love looking in the linens section for vintage tablecloths – again, we’ve found some really pretty…

You will need · Resene Interior Paintwork Cleaner · Sandpaper – we used 80 grit · Bucket · Ladder · Layout brush · Paper smoother · Paste brush · Plumb bob · Scissors · Size · Knife · Sponge · Trim guide · Wallpaper paste, if using unpasted paper · Wallpaper trough · Wallpaper – we used Resene Wallpaper Collection 91272 1 There’s a bit of prep to be done before wallpapering, such as painting your ceiling and trims. This means there will be no chance of getting any paint on your fresh wallpaper. We used Resene Lustacryl in Resene Alabaster for trims, Resene Lustacryl in Resene Black for the door and Resene Foundry for the bottom half of the walls. We also prepared the walls by washing with Resene…

Historic EPIC A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose, Allen & Unwin Don’t be fooled. Heather Rose is not a writer; she is a magician. Her magic power? Being able to transport readers back in time to faraway lands. In A Great Act of Love, the destination is 19th century Hobart, where a young British woman, Caroline, moves into a cottage next to an abandoned vineyard. The vines were a starting point for Heather, who is a Lutruwita/Tasmania local. “At dinner in Hobart one night, a famous winemaker told me of an early vineyard in colonial Tasmania that had made sparkling wine which was so good it won an award in Paris in the late 1820s,” she says of the legendary story that sparked the initial idea for this…

When was the last time you were out of your comfort zone? Bungee jumping off the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown. What is the meaning of life? To live an honest, rewarding life and be happy. What do you think stands in the way of people realising their dreams or potential? Self-limitation – when people don’t believe in themselves. How do you start your day? Working out. What are you most fascinated by? Learning something new. Cocktail of choice? Bellini. DIY or call in an expert? Call in an expert! Humans need to learn to… Be more tolerant of one another. What is one thing no one knows about you? Nothing – my life is an open book. What does success mean to you? I can use my platform…