Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 1839 i Woman's Day Magazine NZ

Burning up Auckland’s Spark Arena, Pink shone like true-blue pop royalty, but off the stage, the “Beautiful Trauma” singer was just another mum out and about with her family! During her week-long stay in the City of Sails, we spotted the star checking out the Viaduct Harbour with husband Carey Hart, 43, daughter Willow, seven, and son Jameson, one, as well as Pink’s dad and stepmother, who’d flown from Philadelphia to join them in Aotearoa. Earlier in the day, Carey had ducked out to buy his famous wife flowers for her 39th birthday and the family enjoyed a slap-up lunch by the water. Later Pink had a top-secret meeting with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern before she performed the fourth of her five sold-out Auckland concerts. The next day, Pink, Carey…

Infuriated by rumours of her estranged husband Brad Pitt reuniting with ex Jennifer Aniston and distraught that the actor appears to be winning their nasty custody battle, Angelina Jolie has apparently embarked on her own revenge romance – with none other than Justin Theroux! Under the guise of offering him a movie role, the Maleficent actress, 43, reportedly contacted the Leftovers star via his management and the pair arranged to meet for a top-secret meal in New York recently. An insider claims, “Ange knows how to get under Jen’s skin. The whole dinner was very orchestrated. She did her homework and picked a restaurant Justin loved.” And it paid off, with a friend of the actor adding, “There was instant chemistry and they ended up talking all night. Afterwards, Justin…

Goops! While her ex-hubby is consciously coupling with Dakota, Gwyneth Paltrow is licking her wounds after being held to account for making outlandish claims about the products for sale on her lifestyle website. The items include jade and rose quartz vaginal eggs, which Goop claimed could balance hormones and regulate periods, as well as improve bladder control, orgasms and “feminine energy”. Also under the spotlight was the label’s Inner Judge Flower Essence, which was said to help prevent depression. A California district attorney has found the products were not backed by “competent and reliable scientific evidence”, and Goop has agreed to pay $220,000 in penalties, and offer full refunds to any customers. While neither Gwyneth, 45, nor Goop have admitted wrongdoing, they’ve decided to settle the case quickly. And behind…

New York Fashion Week kicked off with a “Bang Bang” when duelling divas Nicki Minaj and Cardi B clashed in a nasty catfight. After months of online spats, the rap rivals crossed paths at a magazine event and a witness reports, “Out of nowhere, they just started screaming. Cardi’s dress looked ripped, her hair was being tugged on and she threw a shoe at Nicki, but it missed.” Wearing just one heel, Cardi, 25, was escorted out by security and later claimed the “Barbie Dreams” singer, 35, had insulted her baby daughter Kulture, while Nicki suggested the “I Like It” chart-topper was suffering from postnatal depression. She added, “I could not believe how humiliating it all felt.”…

what ‘ No matter threats Jennifer has made, Ben’s not willing to give up Shauna ’ Just two weeks after he was carted off to rehab for the third time, a bleary-eyed and bedraggled-looking Ben Affleck was spotted heading back to his Los Angeles mansion. It was a move that took Hollywood by surprise since the Justice League star had been warned by his estranged wife Jennifer Garner that if he doesn’t stay in treatment for at least a month, she will file for full custody of their kids, Violet, 12, Seraphina, nine, and Samuel, six. But Woman’s Day has learnt this ultimatum wasn’t enough for Ben, 46, who was only too eager to leave rehab, where he is seeking help for his alcoholism, in order to reconnect with young…

After two adoptions, Sandra Bullock is set to become a mother for the third time at 54, with reports the Oscar winner is expecting a daughter via a surrogate. Woman’s Day has learnt the actress and her boyfriend Bryan Randall told their friends the happy news during an intimate dinner party in Malibu, with an insider telling us, “Sandra broke down in tears as she revealed how she never thought she’d have her dream family. She was overcome with emotion that she was finally getting her happy ever after.” We hear the Ocean’s 8 star and her photographer beau, 43, are “over the moon” after a tumultuous two years of trying, with three failed attempts at surrogacy. And while they wait for the new arrival, Bryan will officially adopt her…

Are you part robot?” inquires a curious child, eyeing up Korrin Barrett’s right arm with noticeable awe. “Yep, I’m a girl Transformer,” replies Korrin, smiling warmly as she opens and closes her $75,000 bionic hand. This is a typical interaction for Korrin, who is a quadruple amputee. For six years, this bright, overwhelmingly optimistic woman has been learning to not only live again, but to lead an even better, more satisfying life than she did before she lost all four limbs. “My goal is to show others what is possible – to encourage people going through challenges to reset their mindset, accept their shortcomings and move forwards,” she enthuses. “Because look, they’re not going to grow back!” In 2012, Korrin was living in Queensland in Australia. Fit, healthy and madly…

It could easily be argued Samantha Tait’s determined nature and natural talent are giving her feet of flames. As a young girl sitting in front of the TV watching her DVD of Riverdance over and over, she imagined herself being one of the incredible dancers on stage. Now the Irish dancer, 19, is tapping her way to stardom in the show Celtic Illusion, which is currently touring around New Zealand and Australia, and is achieving her dreams in the process. Since the age of three, the Wellington teen has been interested in all things Irish – despite the fact she’s Scottish! “I’m fully Scottish, so all my family wanted me to do Highland dancing. It started with a school production I did when I was five years old. I was…

Bobby pins are a great go-to holiday hair accessory as they’re foolproof to use and a small, light addition to your travel bag. Hollywood hair guru Justine Marjan’s secret is running a hairspray-misted brush down strands before styling, to add grip. Then, she says, “I place the bobby pins where the head starts rounding, or in line with the eyes or cheekbones.” BRING BLING Opt for a classic style if you want an everyday look or choose bright colours and diamonds for events.…

Vegetable & Ravioli Soup SERVES 4-6 PREPARATION 15 MINUTES COOKING 30 MINUTES 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 chorizo sausages, thinly sliced 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, peeled, chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 litres chicken stock 400g can crushed tomatoes 3 rosemary sprigs 2 courgettes, chopped 300g fresh ravioli 100g baby spinach grated parmesan, garlic bread to serve 1. In saucepan, heat oil on medium heat. Cook chorizo and onion for 4-5 minutes until onion is soft and chorizo releases oils. 2. Add carrot and garlic, then cook, stirring, for 4-5 minutes. 3. Mix in stock, tomatoes and rosemary, bringing to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. 4. Add courgette and ravioli, simmering for 4-5 minutes until ravioli floats to the surface and is tender.…

I love to travel. That’s not entirely true. I love to be in another country. The actual travel is a long, painful, embarrassing life lesson. In the olden days, we didn’t travel by plane. We travelled in Dad’s Vauxhall. Then when we did get on a plane, it was very exciting and I clearly remember wearing my pretty, silky “special for church” green dress, with patent shoes and a sparkly clip in my hair. I don’t remember the flight, just that all the air hostesses looked like film stars. Years later, I learned real travellers wear yoga pants and a comfy T-shirt. I guess when you’re travelling first class, you can wear pink monkey pyjamas and no-one would blink an eye. (Note to reader: Once on an Emirates flight to…

William Makepeace Thackeray’s classic 1848 novel Vanity Fair has once again been adapted into a TV series. Created by the talented people behind Poldark and Victoria, the seven-part drama has been applauded by many British critics so far. Bates Motel and Ready Player One actress Olivia Cooke talks to Woman’s Day about taking on the iconic role of Becky Sharp. How did you feel when you found out you got the part? I felt an overwhelming sense of gratefulness and excitement to do the job. But also I thought, “Oh, now I’ve got to do it. They’ve cast the wrong person. I don’t have it in me to play this part. She is so iconic!” Everyone has their version of Becky Sharp in their heads. She’s so beloved. So after…

Want a glimpse into the future? Check out the four nights of Kiwi comedy pilots airing on Three from Sunday. After they’ve all screened, viewers will be able to vote on social media for their favourite show to be made into a full series. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store. MEAN MUMS Sunday, September 23, 8.30pm Who’s in it? Morgana O’Reilly, Anna Jullienne and Aroha Rawson. What’s it about? Passive-aggressive mums out to make sure everyone else knows how great their kids are – but when the kids start school, it’s a steep learning curve! SIDELINES Monday, September 24, 8.30pm Who’s in it? Nick Rado, Tarun Mohanbhai and Thomas Sainsbury. What’s it about? The quirky dramedy follows four unsatisfied suburban…

1 I AM PAUL WALKER MONDAY, 8.30PM, THREE Have the tissues handy for this feature-length doco that explores the life of movie heart-throb Paul. Starting out on TV as a child star, he shot to fame with his break-out role in The Fast and the Furious. Tragically, he died five years ago. 2 ALICE IN WONDERLAND SATURDAY, 6.30PM, SKY MOVIES DISNEY This 1951 classic is still a treat to watch! Despite the modern remakes, nothing quite beats the animated original. Follow young Alice down the rabbit hole as she embarks on an adventure of a lifetime and meets some crazy, colourful friends – and foes! 3 MY YEAR WITH HELEN THURSDAY, 9.30PM, THREE Go behind the scenes for an intimate look at our former…

In Chris Hammer’s Scrublands (Allen & Unwin, rrp $36.99), an isolated town is suffering an endless drought when a charismatic and dedicated young priest calmly opens fire on his congregation, killing five parishioners before being shot himself. A year later, journalist Martin Scarsden arrives to write a feature on the anniversary of the tragedy. But the stories he hears from locals don’t match up with the version of events reported by his newspaper. Martin finds himself risking everything to discover a truth that becomes darker and more complex with every twist.…

LONG-LASTING DIVINE SCENT BRINGS CLOTHES TO LIFE Experience the smooth and delicious fragrance of fresh lotus layered with earthy sea minerals. With touch release technology, you’ll enjoy up to 10 weeks of tantalising fragrance – every touch releases fresh scent so your laundry stays delicately fragrant for longer. Experience the divine difference of Divine Blends! Rrp $7.99 for 900ml. OPEN SESAME! Just one swish of your foot under the bumper and it’s ‘Open Sesame’. A hands-free power tailgate is just one of the fancy features you’ll discover on board the new Holden Equinox. Range available from $33,990+ ORC* . Visit holden.co.nz/equinox. * Not available in conjunction with any other offer. PROTECTION FROM NEEDLESS PAIN Emla® topical anaesthetic creams and patches protect skin from the needle pain of vaccinations, blood tests…

Give your face the nourishment it deserves with the By Nature skincare range, made in New Zealand with natural ingredients. We have eight prize packs to give away, worth $65 each, which contain Facial Cleanser, Face Masks, Day Crème, Night Crème, Face Serum and Eye Crème. To enter, visit womansday.co.nz and click on the “Win” tab with the code BN39 or send your name, address and phone number to: Woman’s Day/By Nature, Response Bag 500235, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142 by September 28.…

As her sister Eugenie’s wedding fast approaches, Princess Beatrice is still without a date – and she’s begged Harry and Meghan to set her up with a suitor! Recently, the fun-loving redhead was spotted partying with the prince’s best friend Thomas Inskip, sparking rumours of a new romance, but there’s a slight catch – the banker is married to Lara Hughes-Young. In fact, Harry and Meghan attended their wedding in Jamaica in March 2017 on one of their first photographed outings. Still, a palace insider tells us, “Beatrice would love to go to the wedding with Thomas, just as a friend, for support. He’s a really fun guy and she enjoys hanging out with him. The last thing she wants is for people to be talking about how she’s still…

In a bombshell interview set to rock Hollywood, Brad and Angelina’s eldest son Maddox is preparing to tell the world that his dad wasn’t to blame for his parents’ nasty split. A source close to the Fury actor reveals that Brad has gone to great lengths to repair his relationship with Maddox after father and son reportedly got into a heated physical fight on a private plane in September 2016. Whatever happened on the aircraft apparently caused Angelina to pull the pin on her marriage, and she and Brad have been at loggerheads ever since. “Since then, Brad has had anger-management therapy at Maddox’s request,” the source claims. “They’ve also undergone joint therapy and have spent one-on-one time together to renew their bond. Maddox has been spending weekends at Brad’s…

After the heartbreaking death of her most recent ex-boyfriend, a distraught Ariana Grande has reportedly put her wedding to Pete Davidson on hold. Rapper Mac Miller, 26, died of an apparent drug overdose after years of battling addiction and a source close to the singer reveals that the news has left Ariana, 25, “absolutely devastated”. The pair first began dating in 2016 and broke up in May this year, just a month before Ariana’s whirlwind engagement to Saturday Night Live comedian Pete, 24. “She was on cloud nine planning the big day, but Mac’s passing has really shaken her up,” reports the source, adding that Pete has been a great support. “He’s fine with postponing the wedding. He just wants to be there to comfort Ariana. He knows Mac’s death…

It’s a beautiful, crisp day on the shores of Lake Wanaka as Annabel Langbein and her daughter Rose pick watercress for the soup they’re planning for lunch. “Ooh, Mum, we could add some Tuscan kale,” says Rose. “Yeah, and I’ve got some of that yummy Whitestone cheese,” adds her mother. Dressed in jeans and gumboots, these two very natural foodies are literally in their element in this stunning pocket of Central Otago that Annabel calls home. Her face we all know – she’s the blonde, beautiful “free-range cook” who has sold millions of books and hosted her own TV show around the world. But today she’s just a mum in the garden with her gorgeous, statuesque daughter, who is about to head off for greener pastures. Not, however, before putting…

Hawaii Palm prints and brights scream tropical holiday, while loose fits beat the heat. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essential. Sydney Load up on bright block colours for adventures around the city. Wear these rainbow colours from head to toe and you’ll feel as vibrant as the sights! Queenstown Whether you’re unwinding in luxury or lazing by the lake, knits and tailored pieces in pastel hues will hit the right note. Waiheke Earthy neutrals work well for an island getaway in the Hauraki Gulf. Loose and relaxed styles are ideal for vineyard and beach visits alike. Stockists Clearly 0800 446 107, Colette by Colette Hayman (09) 815 1481, Dotti 0800 369 327, EziBuy 0508 500 500, Farmers 0800 327 637, Glassons 0800 GLASSONS, H&M 0800 406 700, Hannahs 0800…

Masked to perfection Popping on a sheet mask is the perfect way to pamper yourself while on holiday, plus these Garnier beauties are super-cheap and take up next to no space in your bag. The new products are: Garnier SkinActive Pure Charcoal Pore-Tightening Tissue Mask, $4.99, SkinActive Pure Charcoal Mattifying Tissue Mask, $4.99, SkinActive Purifying Matcha + Kaolin Sachet Mask, $3.99, and SkinActive Radiance Juicy Sachet Mask, $3.99. Silky smooth Priming pins to be fuzz-free and then maintaining their smoothness during your getaway is super-quick with Schick Intuition f.a.b, $17. The bi-directional blade means you can shave both up and down, without having to lift the razor off your skin. Water-activated gel also means you don’t need to take any extra shaving foam or cream with you. Convenient cup Introducing…

Do you have any interesting travel insurance stories you can share? “They usually involve animals,” says Craig Morrison from Holiday Rescue Travel Insurance. “A man claimed for a stolen fishing rod after a seal took off with it. But the most meaningful cases are those where someone is gravely ill. They could have been heartbreaking headlines, but with a fast evacuation, more often than not they get home safely to their family and receive the medical treatment and support they need.” TELL US ABOUT PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS Some of us might have skimmed over policy form questions about pre-existing conditions, but not ticking the boxes properly can have devastating consequences. “Always declare your conditions, no matter how innocent or unimportant they may seem, so you know with certainty that you are…

Coconut & Blueberry Cheesecake SERVES 10 PREPARATION 30 MINUTES COOKING 1 HOURS (PLUS COOLING & CHILLING) 1¾ cups almond meal ½ cup shredded coconut ½ cup coconut flour 1 tablespoon icing sugar 1/3 cup coconut oil (see tip) 500g cream cheese, softened 3 eggs 2/3 cup caster sugar juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 125g punnet blueberries, plus extra to serve shaved coconut, pouring cream to serve 1. Preheat oven to 160°C. Grease and line a 20cm springform pan. 2. Process almond meal, shredded coconut, flour and icing sugar. Melt coconut oil and add to processor with motor running until mixture binds together. Press over the base and side of pan. Chill until required. 3. Process cream cheese, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, juice and vanilla together…

I long ago accepted that when it comes to glamour, I am not a natural. When I was a teenager, I wore Doc Martens and ripped jeans – not ripped ironically either. Ripped because I caught them in a bicycle chain. Other girls my age styled their hair and wore off-the-shoulder dresses, but I was so tall, so chunky, I didn’t fit that mould. So instead of trying to, I went the other way. I think this happens a lot when you are a teenager. Most things are a reaction, not an action. Can’t make your hair look like Farrah Fawcett’s? Cut it all off. But as I grew older, I realised that while glamour for most people of limited means is a bit of a stretch, anyone can do…

SIERRA BURGESS IS A LOSER Now on Netflix Rating: ★★★★ This high-school rom-com sees a self-conscious student fall for a guy over the phone. The only problem is, he thinks she’s someone else! MAYANS M.C. Wednesdays on Neon Rating: ★★★ This new Sons of Anarchy spin-off series is set in a post-Jax Teller world that sees Ezekiel fresh out of prison and carving out a new identity for himself. NAPPILY EVER AFTER From Friday on Netflix Rating: ★★★ Violet’s the perfect woman with the dream job, relationship and great hair. But one day everything in her world comes crashing down. THE DEUCE Mondays on Neon Rating: ★★★★ The new season of the series about the X-rated film industry starts five years on from last year’s finale, but things are looking…

It’s been just five weeks since I got home from my whirlwind road trip around Ireland, but our Glam Getaways special (starting on page 44) already has my feet itching – and no, it’s not from all the communal bathrooms I visited! You see, my trip around the Emerald Isle was far from glamorous. It started with a bad case of gastro on the flight over, which led to an unfortunate incident in a Dublin restaurant that has forever scarred me. Then, once the vomiting subsided, I hurtled around the country in a tiny borrowed car, stopping for only a night or two in various campgrounds, hostels and cheap hotels. I had a blast exploring castles, cliffs, ruins, breweries and wildlife colonies, but it was far from relaxing. I think…

It’s not a pregnancy announcement, but as the baby buzz surrounding Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex heats up, an official statement has finally been made about the couple’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. After whistle-stop trips to Australia, Fiji and Tonga, Kensington Palace has confirmed the royals will touch down in Wellington on October 28 for a visit that will “focus on youth leadership, and environmental and conservation efforts”. After a traditional powhiri at Government House, Harry and Meghan will undertake more engagements in the capital the next day – perhaps honouring the former Suits star’s interest in the film industry with a trip to Weta Workshop. They will also head to Abel Tasman National Park. On October 30, they’ll travel to Auckland, with a visit to one…

First it was matching tattoos – now Chris Martin and Dakota Johnson are talking marriage and babies! Those close to the loved-up duo, who met almost a year ago, say the identical inkings are a sign the stars are about to tie the knot and start a family. “The infinity tattoos are a statement that their love will last forever,” a well-placed source tells Woman’s Day. “Chris is planning to make it official and get down on one knee any day now.” Fifty Shades of Grey star Dakota – daughter of Hollywood royalty Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson – was first linked to Coldplay frontman Chris last October and we’re told the twosome realised early on they were just the right match for making babies together. Time for tots “Dakota…

The troubles just keep coming for former Melrose Place star Heather Locklear, who has been placed back in psychiatric care for the second time this year after allegedly attacking her parents. The former pin-up’s fearful mum was reportedly forced to call emergency services after the “agitated” star lashed out at her folks while they were visiting her Los Angeles home. It’s a new low for Heather, who was forced to spend a week in a psychiatric ward in June after threatening to take her own life. Afterwards, the actress voluntarily checked into rehab for substance abuse and mental health issues. Reports say friends and family, including her daughter Ava, 20, from her former marriage to Richie Sambora, are rallying around her in these difficult times.…

It’s the secret baby no-one saw coming – Robbie Williams and his wife Ayda Field have announced the arrival of their third child, a daughter named Colette Josephine, via a surrogate. In a touching Instagram post, the couple, who are currently both judges on The X Factor UK, revealed they’d welcomed a little sister, nicknamed Coco, for their daughter Theodora, five, and son Charlton, three. Ayda wrote, “It has been a very long and difficult path to get here, which is why we have kept it on the downlow. This little lady, who is biologically ours, was carried by an incredible surrogate mother, to whom we will be eternally grateful. We are over the moon to have this beautiful baby girl in our lives and so blessed that we live…

PREPARATION 5 MINUTES COOKING 20 MINUTES SERVES 4 1 large onion finely diced 2 stalks celery, diced (optional) 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 fat garlic clove, crushed 4 small potatoes, peeled, halved 6 cups vegetable or chicken stock 10 silverbeet leaves, stalks and leaves separated, chopped 10 kale leaves, stripped from stems, chopped ½ cup parsley leaves, finely chopped 1 tablespoon butter salt, ground black pepper to taste Heat onion and celery in oil until softened , but not brown, for 8 minutes. Add garlic, then cook for a minute before adding potatoes and stock. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Add silverbeet leaves, kale and parsley, then simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in butter, salt and pepper. Blend coarsely with a hand wand blender – it’s…

Hollywood golden couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are known for trolling each other mercilessly on social media. Who could forget when the stylish actress tweeted her handsome husband with the priceless message, “Happy Father’s Day! Since the day our baby was born, I’ve felt so strongly in my heart that you were most likely the father.” But behind the hundreds of tongue-in-cheek messages, this quick-witted pair, who married in 2012, are deathly serious about making their marriage work. “Wherever we go in the world on our adventure together, our family is our first priority,” shares Blake, who shot to fame in 2007 in the teen TV drama Gossip Girl. “Work comes and goes, but we value our private time together more than anything.” However, it was work that brought…

She has not only won the hearts of viewers, but the Honey Badger’s too. In recent days, 25-year-old Queensland property valuer Sophie Tieman has sparked rumours the pair could possibly be engaged after being seen sporting what looks to be a large diamond sparkler, cleverly avoiding suspicion by wearing it on her right hand. Sophie says she knew early on her parents would approve of Nick and believes the Aussie larrikin, 30, would comfortably fit into her family fold. “In getting to know Nick, I realised just how down to earth, grounded, funny and very Australian he is – and my family are all Woman of those’ s Day things.”…

When Viarni Bright had 40cm of her bowel removed just before her 21st birthday due to Crohn’s disease, she never imagined she’d one day have the energy to train for a half marathon – let alone enjoy it! But almost three years later, the former Bachelor NZ star is fighting fit and ready to tackle the 21km run in the Tauranga International Marathon on September 22. With fatigue a big factor for those with Crohn’s, Viarni admits some days have been a struggle to find the energy to complete a training run. “My body doesn’t absorb nutrients like normal, so this can cause a big lack of energy,” she explains. “But I’ve planned my life around my training schedule so I don’t miss my runs and it’s such an accomplished…

Soft textiles and stretch fabrics are ideal for travelling in. Add a larger bag to carry the essentials. You don’t have to dress down to travel. A tailored blazer with denim is chic and might get you an upgrade too! Stockists Colette by Colette Hayman (09) 815 1481, Dotti 0800 369 327, EziBuy Online ezibuy.co.nz, Glassons 0800 GLASSONS, Gorman (09) 529 2279, H&M 0800 406 700, Just Jeans 0800 559 327, LEO + BE (09) 489 7676, Max 0800 MAXSHOP, Merchant 1948 0800 683 752, Novo (09) 846 7828, Portmans 0800 769 327, Seed Heritage (09) 376 3850, Specsavers (09) 846 2991, Witchery (09) 523 1335…

Cruising makes for a true break – you get to see the sights, but you only have to unpack once. Enjoy great food, excursions and entertainment – or just kick back on a deckchair in the sun. Here’s our guide to ship-shape cruises on the horizon. All aboard! LUXURY THREE-SHIP CRUISE Package: Cunard Three Queens Voyage package Duration: 33 nights Departs: New York, August 18, 2019 Price: From $10,269pp (valid until September 30, 2018) This dream cruise starts with a seven-night transatlantic crossing on Queen Mary 2 from New York to Southampton, followed by a 12-night Norwegian fjords cruise on board Queen Elizabeth , then 14 nights’ Mediterranean sailing on Queen Victoria…

As much as we all love holidays, it’s not always possible to take large chunks of time off work or fork out for a long trip. But even a weekend away can do wonders for your health and wellbeing. Short breaks can be just as restorative, and they help recharge body and mind, as well as improving your outlook. A mini-break can help rejuvenate your energy levels without requiring a lot of logistics, planning and money. HOLIDAY EXCITEMENT Give yourself something to look forward to by booking a mini-break. You can enhance your mood even just by starting to plan a trip. Research suggests that the anticipation you feel about an upcoming event is more satisfying than how you feel when you look back on it. LASTING EFFECT Studies show…

Q We recently inherited some money. I am dying to go away on a fantastic overseas holiday – we haven’t left the country for nearly 15 years – but my husband thinks we need a new car. Our old car works just fine and we don’t have enough money to do both. What do you reckon is more important? • Priorities, Hamilton A Cars just lose value, but a holiday is true living. They are why we go to work. That’s my opinion, anyway. Q What do you think is a reasonable amount of money to spend on makeup? My daughter is in her early 20s but seems to spend a sizable chunk of her pay packet on war paint. I say it’s a waste of money, but she says…

My daughter asked me what Bora Bora was like the other day. “Where are you hearing about Bora Bora?” I asked her, wondering when her travel tastes got so high brow. “A YouTuber I watch went there,” she replied. “It looked amazing. Did you see all the fish, Mum?” And in a flash, it all came flooding back … the tranquility, the calm coral-coloured sea, the overwater bungalows, the warm island breeze, the interesting bird life and delightful days of just doing nothing. Perfect. We went to Bora Bora for a very belated honeymoon, having had a “familymoon” directly after our wedding and deciding while nice in theory, holidays without kids are important. So a couple of years later, we whisked ourselves away. It was as dreamy as it looks…

What do you miss most about New Zealand? My family, the beach and having barbecues. Which Funny Girls co-star makes you laugh the most? That’s a tough one, but I would have to say Jackie van Beek. Why is it important to mark 125 years since women were given the vote? We should celebrate the amazing women who made it possible for us to vote and be the first country to do so. New Zealand is home to strong, driven women and that’s something we can be proud of! Who is your favourite female comedian? Hannah Gadsby. What’s your favourite Funny Girls skit? The one where I used a urinal seems to have got the most chat. What’s your favourite thing about…

Rugby relocation I have been following Julian Savea since he was selected for the All Blacks as an 18-year-old. How amazing to see the lovely pictures of him with his wife Fatima and daughter Jude (WD, Sept 17). Although he is now living in France, we cannot forget how proud he made us here. I look forward to reading more about Julian and his beautiful family. • Patrina, Auckland Freaky fashion I love seeing what the A-listers are wearing, but this week (WD, Sept 17) they seem to have gone mad! From Lady Gaga dressed as a pink Big Bird to Helen Mirren looking unusually dishevelled, there were plenty of laughs to be had at their expense. I much preferred Cate Blanchett’s sophisticated elegance. • Diane, Auckland Retro revival I…

Virgo AUG 24 - SEP 23 The warmer weather seems to agree with you, Virgo. Both socially and financially, things are on the upswing, with cash appearing through shared enterprises or fundraising. Your positive attitude should attract some new people as well. Singles may even be dazzled by an older, entrepreneurial type. Libra SEP 24 - OCT 23 What a difference a week can make! It’s been a pensive period for many Librans, but as the sun and Mercury burst into the limelight, your old mojo will return in full force. This weekend should be brimming with fun encounters. Saturday’s stars might even bring an impromptu get-together. Scorpio OCT 24 - NOV 22 The buzz around your home is becoming deafening! Unexpected visitors, renos and excitement levels are all on…

Blooming gorgeous Helena Bonham Carter is about to appear as party-loving Princess Margaret in the third season of The Crown, but off screen, the actress is more at home having a pint at the pub with her toyboy, actor Harry Treadaway. The King’s Speech star, 52, couldn’t stop smiling as she enjoyed a drink at a London bar with Penny Dreadful hunk Harry, 34, before the cosy couple headed off to pick up supplies from a nearby greengrocer. Helena – mum to Billy, 14, and Nell, 10 – has been single since splitting from quirky filmmaker Tim Burton, 60, in 2014.…

Just two days after news of their engagement broke, Denise Richards married actor Aaron Phypers in a romantic whirlwind ceremony. The couple began dating in December, but the ink had barely dried on 46-year-old Aaron’s divorce papers with Desperate Housewives star Nicollette Sheridan when they tied the knot in Malibu last week. Denise, 47, wore a strapless lace playsuit that designer Mark Zunino whipped up in just a day. Her two daughters from her marriage to Two and a Half Men star Charlie Sheen, Sam, 14, and Lola, 13, were both bridesmaids, as was her adopted daughter Eloise, seven. The ceremony was all caught on camera as Denise is the newest cast member of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. An insider reports, “Denise was ready to marry Aaron right…