Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 1916 i Woman's Day Magazine NZ

CAROLYN TAYLOR Former What Now presenter Carolyn says her return to our screens is somewhat of a full circle. “When I started in TV, it was all about the kids, so it’s great to be able to represent the youngsters again with Cure Kids,” tells the 38-year-old. “The show has given me another chance to unleash my inner child and bust out a few moves for a good cause. And I just adore live television and the unknown element of it all!” MANU VATUVEI The rugby league legend is the top try-scorer in New Zealand Warriors history, but now his eyes are set on a new title – DWTS champion! “I’ve been known to do a bit of a quick-step on the field, so I hope that translates on the…

Royal fans are outraged that Meghan will reportedly skip the royal ritual of introducing her newborn on the steps of the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital, a tradition started by Princess Anne. The Queen’s only daughter delivered Her Majesty’s first grandchild, Peter Phillips, at the maternity ward in 1977, but it was Anne’s second child, Zara Tindall, who was the first to be pictured on the stairs in 1981. Princess Diana followed suit, posing for photos with William and Harry outside the Lindo Wing in 1982 and 1984 respectively, while Kate has introduced all three of her children, Princes George and Louis, and Princess Charlotte, on the steps too, sometimes paying homage to the mother-in-law she never met with her choice of maternity wear.…

They’re one of the few genuine matches in six seasons of Married at First Sight Australia, and things are moving fast for Cameron Merchant and Jules Robinson. “We’re absolutely in love – that’s what this whole journey has been about,” confesses the former cricketer, 34. “I’m in a really good place in my life, but I’m just missing a family.” The pair have already “adopted” two plants, named Gemma and Harrison, in order to get a jump-start on parenting practice, however, now it appears they’re gearing up for the real thing, with Jules, 36, rumoured to be sporting a little bump – and the pair seen shopping for baby clothes at an upmarket Sydney boutique. A fellow shopper reveals the loved-up duo – who are said to be tying the…

The experts on MAFS have come under fire for the disastrous love matches they’ve made, but psychologist Mel Schilling insists they’ve had great success, despite so many nasty splits. “Sure, there’s a low number of couples who stay together forever, but we look at the personal journeys people go through,” she tells. “The things they learn set them up for positive relationships, not necessarily with the person they were paired with, but with other people in the real world. We’ve seen lots of engagements and babies.” Asked if the experts simply match wildly incompatible brides and grooms to create drama, Mel, 46, admits, “That’s always going to be part of it – we’re making a television show – but we’re all about putting people together with the strongest compatibility we…

They had a red-hot fling when they co-starred in the epic historical flop Alexander back in 2004 – and now, 15 years later, Angelina Jolie and Colin Farrell have rekindled that flame! A source close to the two exes claims, “Angelina has always considered him the one that got away. They’re keeping things on the down-low for now, but they’re both so excited to give their relationship another go and see what happens.” The former flames reportedly reconnected a few months ago, when Colin reached out after Angelina’s brutal break-up from Brad Pitt, 55. And the Oscar-winning actress, 43, was certainly doing nothing to shut down the rumours when she dragged four of her six kids to the Hollywood premiere of Colin’s latest film Dumbo, which she attended specially to…

She’s faced a barrage of abuse, been plastered all over porn sites and risked being typecast in nude roles, but Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke says she doesn’t regret stripping off for the epic fantasy series that turned her into an overnight success. In an interview to mark the start of the drama’s final season this month, the 32-year-old says, “There’s not one part of the show I’d go back and redo. I’d never change anything. You had to see those sex scenes as they couldn’t just be explained.” As platinum-blonde Queen Daenerys Targaryen, Emilia was required to do more nudity than any other actress and had the starring role in one of the most memorable scenes – a lesbian romp that is still talked about eight years after…

Any advice on settling rescue pets in their forever home? Keep things simple and calm until they understand their new world. Gently introduce them to routines and be patient while they learn. It’s a lot of new information to process and they might not get everything right first time! Apart from vet visits, how do I keep my pet healthy? Fleas are one of the most common health issues for pets. Along with the irritation of bites, flea-related diseases account for over 50% of skin disease cases reported to vets. It’s best to prevent problems by protecting all your pets, all year round, with an effective flea treatment. When it comes to worms, infected pets may not show symptoms, but intestinal worms can cause serious health issues.…

Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake SERVES 10 PREPARATION 25 MINUTES (PLUS CHILLING) COOKING 1 HOUR 250g Farmbake triple chocolate cookies 100g melted butter 500g cream cheese at room temperature 395g can condensed milk 1/4 cup caster sugar 3 eggs 1/4 cup espresso coffee, cooled 100g dark chocolate, melted, cooled whipped cream to serve 5 x 39g caramel eggs 1. Preheat oven to moderately slow, 160°C. Line base of 19cm round springform pan with baking paper. Line sides of pan with two layers of baking paper, extending collar 5cm above height of pan. Wrap base of pan in foil and place on a tray. 2. In a food processor, process biscuits until fine crumbs form. Add butter and pulse until combined. Press onto the base of pan. Chill for 30 minutes. 3. In…

1. Surround yourself with genuine MAFS fans – you don’t want to waste precious viewing time debating the philosophical pros and cons of your favourite show! 2. Choose one social media platform and join the conversation. Create memes and gifs – and share your opinions (use #mafsau). 3. Know your MAFS type and have fun! 4. Make your own rules! Does the participant you love have a catchphrase or a repetitive habit? Maybe everyone has to kiss the person next to them or do 10 push-ups each time it happens. 5. Extract the lessons. Amid the drama and fun, each episode has something to take away. Perhaps it’s a personal reflection on how you have behaved in past relationships. Maybe it’s a secret wish for something you want in your…

The great thing about this recipe is you can change it to suit your preferences! For example, you can use any sort of fruit – try adding apple or apricots to the mixture to give it a sweeter taste (I love to do this every now and then). Also, don’t forget you can always substitute the flour, whether you prefer flaxseed flour or even just plain flour. I remember having these as a child with strawberry jam, but I’ll let you in on a secret – grab some raspberries and heat them up for about 15 seconds in the microwave, then take some coconut yoghurt of your choice and pop that on top of your hot cross bun. You won’t look back. Enjoy! Hot Cross Buns SERVES 12 PREPARATION 45…

BROWS ON FLEEK Face-framing eyebrows are still very much in, but the difference this time is they’re a whole lot more natural-looking. Rather than the bold block effect of seasons past, the latest products aim to replicate the popular micro-blading tattoo treatment, which mimics the look of fine hairs – good news for those of us with thinning brows! BLUSH IS BACK There’s one product that make-up artists agree can take years off your face – blush. This is because it combats the loss of colour from your complexion as you age. Add a healthy glow to the apples of your cheeks with these blendable, buildable formulas that are a cinch to apply. GO LIGHTWEIGHT The older you get, the less foundation you need. Too much and you risk a…

What if you could give your kids and grandkids the gift of a lifelong interest in reading before they even start school? You absolutely can, says children’s health expert Professor Frank Oberklaid. “It begins by reading to them daily from a very young age, starting soon after birth,” he explains. “This early introduction means they will come to enjoy books, learn letters and sounds, and establish the necessary building blocks for reading.” START EARLY AND DO IT OFTEN Even babies can benefit from being held and read to, says Frank. “Initially, the child will just get used to hearing their parent or grandparent’s voice and looking at the pictures.” Then later, children will be able to turn the pages themselves, recognise and point out different colours, and anticipate the familiar…

For many women, the very idea of sneezing in public or jumping on a trampoline is scary. Why? In New Zealand, it’s estimated that 40% of us will suffer bladder weakness or stress incontinence at some point in our lives. This means that urine leaks unintentionally, often when you’re exercising, laughing, coughing or sneezing. The problem is usually caused by a weak pelvic floor, so it’s vital you focus on these muscles if you want to remain active for years to come. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that attaches to the bones at the bottom of the pelvis. They effectively form a hammock, providing support to the bladder, bowel and uterus. Pregnancy and childbirth can put a huge strain on the pelvic floor, but menopause and ageing…

OK, people, I’m finally there. First it was the short skirts. One day, just like that, my knees and the flubbery bits above and to the sides of them ruled out any hems that finished too far north. Part of the problem being that I’ve got good eyesight – a curse when the ageing fairies kick in because there are some things (I’m talking to you, reflection-in-the-mirror-while-I’m-trying-on-togs) that you’re simply better off never seeing. Having seen them, however, there’s no alternative but to take it on the chins and work around it. Or below it, as the case may be. Play to your strengths, I told myself, once my knees turned against me. There’s nothing wrong with your ankles. In fact, they may be your best feature, so thank your…

How could they have done this to me? How could the sneaky mirror makers make me think I was a size 10? I’m devastated. Apparently, I look as fat as I feel. I’ve always wanted a stand-alone mirror. I should imagine Duchess of Sussex Meghan has one in every room. Probably even the dining room. Perhaps I should move my full-length, standalone mirror to just next to the fridge or pantry, so that when I come out with a fistful of Pringles or my 18th hundreds-and-thousands muesli slice, I’ll catch an eyeful and stop? It seemed like such a find when I saw that full-length, fancy, stand-up mirrors were half price as I was wandering through Bed Bath & Beyond, looking for a turquoise cushion. I still couldn’t afford it,…

The new Kiwi drama The Bad Seed kicks off this week, but before tuning in, get to know the talented local stars behind the show and their crazy cast connections! JODIE HILLOCK & XAVIER HORAN Both of these talented Kiwis have guest-starred on local drama The Brokenwood Mysteries. XAVIER & DEAN O’GORMAN The Outrageous Fortune prequel series Westside has seen both actors appear, with Xavier taking on the regular role of Phineas, while Dean starred as evil Evan from 2016 to 2017. DEAN & MICHELLE LANGSTONE This dynamic duo have worked together on several projects in the past, including the hit fantasy series Legend of the Seeker, both appearing in episodes in 2009, and Kiwi classic The Almighty Johnsons. MICHELLE & MADELEINE SAMI In her first major role after a…

Aries MAR 21 – APR 20 Enough with all the serious stuff – it’s time to rediscover your fun side! Treat yourself to some live entertainment, hit the dance floor or go nuts with the kids (borrow someone else’s if need be!). Sunday’s exuberant starscape should put things back in perspective, so let yourself live a little. Taurus APR 21 – MAY 21 Feeling stressed? It’s time to simplify your life. The coming months could bring a major review, not just of your work and finances, but your health and diet too. Meanwhile, start adding more music and beauty into the mix – as the weather cools, your cultured side will seek sustenance. Gemini MAY 22 – JUN 21 As your social sector revs up, a fresh romance may be…

After leaving Coronation Street last year to spend more time with her family, it’s clear the move has done Catherine Tyldesley good as she showed off her sizzling body in Dubai. The 35-year-old mother-of-one was busting out on a beach holiday alongside her handsome husband Tom Pitfield, 32, with the tanned, toned pair looking every inch the perfect couple in coordinated scarlet swimwear. As they walked hand-in-hand out of the water, the lovebirds stopped briefly for a passionate kiss. In a recent interview, Catherine admitted she might return to the iconic British soap, where she played Eva Price, but for now, she’s enjoying her time away. She tells, “The timing seemed right. My son Alfie doesn’t start school for another two years so as a family, we wanted the chance…

It was a night of glitz and glamour for Monaco’s royal family as they put on a sparkling show of togetherness – apart from one glaring absence. Co-hosting the principality’s annual Rose Ball, Prince Albert, 61, and his sister Princess Caroline, 62, led a dazzling catwalk of aristocrats, but surprisingly, the prince’s gorgeous wife Princess Charlene, 41, wasn’t by his side. However, the gala went on, with the siblings paying tribute to late designer Karl Lagerfeld, who worked with Caroline on the showstopping event for several years. It was also a rare chance to see the next generation of royals, with Caroline’s four children – Andrea, 34, Charlotte, 32, Pierre, 31, and Princess Alexandra, 19 – all in attendance with their partners.…

Crystals, chanting, essential oils, meditation and a strict vegan diet – it all sounds like a lovely reminder of the one and only trip I’ve made to a health retreat. But it is, in fact, all part of the Duchess of Sussex’s New-Age birthing plan. As the world awaits the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan’s firstborn child, the free-spirited duchess is focusing on staying as calm as possible. And as our cover story reveals this week, that means doing things her way – even if that involves bucking royal traditions. And royal traditions are something I adore. Call me old-fashioned, but when Duchess Kate stood on the steps of St Mary’s Hospital with Prince George in her arms, I beamed. It was the spotted blue dress, a nod to…

As our make-up artist paints Tamara Joy’s pout, the MAFS star laps up compliments about her lips. “I pay a lot for them, so they better be good!” she laughs. But when it comes to her personality, there’s nothing fake about the Melbourne admin worker, who’s refreshingly frank on her whirlwind visit to New Zealand, albeit a little ditsy. Unprompted, Tamara confesses to Woman’s Day, “When I first got here, I was like, ‘Can I drink the tap water?’ How dumb am I?!” During our exclusive shoot on Auckland’s Mission Bay Beach, the 30-year-old has no time for her cheating groom Daniel Webb or his new love Jessika Power. “They can get in the bin, like my wedding dress,” she says. “I’m clearing out the trash. Karma is a b****!”…

He played an out-of-control drunk in Leaving Las Vegas – and now life is seemingly imitating art for Nicolas Cage. Just like his character, alcoholic screenwriter Ben Sanderson, Oscar winner Nicolas’ life appears to get more twisted at every turn, especially since he traded in Los Angeles for Sin City. The 55-year-old cult screen figure allegedly reached a new low last week when he was filmed drunkenly ranting in a Nevada courthouse before applying for a marriage licence with his girlfriend Erika Koike. They married at the Bellagio casino the same day, despite his claims that she would “steal his money” – but Nicolas had it annulled four days later, claiming he was too drunk “to understand the full impact of his actions”. Despite being born into Hollywood royalty –…

It’s raining men for Lady Gaga, who has secretly added yet another leading man to her romantic rotation – Jeremy Renner! The Avengers actor, 48, was in the VIP section the night the pop diva’s Las Vegas show opened and they were recently spotted sharing a booth at a Hollywood lounge. “Gaga’s impressed with him,” an insider tells us. “He might come across as arrogant, but she thinks he’s highly intelligent and interesting. She also feels he’s a great dad and loves the way he dotes on his young daughter Ava.” Their rumoured affair comes at the end of a roller-coaster couple of months in which Gaga, 33, called off her engagement to celebrity agent Christian Carino, 50, amid a flurry of allegations that she was absorbed in a tortured…

Terrified of losing her mind, as well as custody of her beloved boys, Britney Spears has checked into rehab again – and she intends to stay there as long as it takes to get better. Twelve years after her infamous head-shaving, umbrella-wielding breakdown, the “Toxic” pop princess is believed to be suffering bouts of mental illness triggered by the near-death of her beloved dad Jamie, who remains in a bad way after rupturing his colon late last year. “Her emotional state hit rock bottom and she struggled to deal with the simplest daily tasks, such as taking the boys to soccer or making dinner,” a family insider claims, speaking exclusively to Woman’s Day. “She was breaking down in tears sporadically, saying she couldn’t cope and needed time for herself before…

Forget Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Cher – it’s our very own columnist Sarah-Kate Lynch who should be crowned Queen of Reinvention! The magazine editor who went into radio and then became a best-selling author has, in her 50s, transformed once again, turning herself into a top TV writer. After stints on Shortland Street and 800 Words, our beloved columnist is now the story producer and co-writer of TVNZ 1’s dark new thriller The Bad Seed, starring Dean O’Gorman, Chelsie Preston-Crayford and Amanda Billing. “It’s not easy trying something totally new when you’re no spring chicken because you think you already know everything, but you have to accept you don’t, then just be brave and forge on,” says Sarah-Kate. The 56-year-old is no stranger to forging on. After two years editing…

When psychologist Dr Natalie Flynn became a first-time mum more than a decade ago, she couldn’t help but think there was still something missing in her life. She had husband Michael and a beautiful, bonny baby boy in her arms – but no matter how hard she looked, she couldn’t find a no-nonsense parenting book that was based on solid research rather than opinion. Now, 13 years later, the Dunedin-born doctor and mother-of-three has written that book herself. Modern-day mums, she says, are constantly bombarded with advice on how to parent. Conflicting information can be found on social media, in every corner of the internet and even in well-meaning but factually flawed parenting books. It means mums and dads up and down New Zealand are sometimes making decisions that are…

Salt & Pepper Squid SERVES 4 PREPARATION & COOKING 30 MINUTES 1kg small whole squid, cleaned, with tentacles vegetable oil for deep-frying 1½ tablespoons sea salt flakes, lightly crushed 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper 3 teaspoons ground Sichuan pepper 1 teaspoon chilli powder 2/3 cup cornflour 4 long red chillies, seeded, thinly sliced 1 spring onion, cut into 3cm lengths lemon or lime wedges to serve 1. Cut squid tentacles in half or quarters if large. Cut hoods down one side, open out and pat dry. Score the inside lightly with a small, sharp knife in a crisscross pattern without cutting all the way through. Cut into 2.5cm x 5cm pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel. 2. Heat oil in a wok or large saucepan over medium heat…

Bye-bye, bunny! In a seasonal twist, Ferrero Rocher has gone nuts this Easter and replaced the traditional bunny with an autumnal squirrel. But as it still has the brand’s classic hazelnut and creamy chocolate taste, this is one rodent you won’t throw out of the house – and you might even find yourself squirrelling it away from the kids! Available from good treat retailers nationwide, rrp $4.99. Gimme s’more Before the cooler months force us indoors, grab a Remarkable Chocolate Co. S’mores Kit to throw on the barbie for the long weekend. Full of special treats including marshmallows, raspberry chocolate bark, cookies and even skewers to do the toasting, the only thing you’ll need to add is a group of willing eaters! Available from Farro nationwide or online at remarkablechocolate.com,…

The older I get, the more I realise it’s the simple pleasures that bring the most joy. In a world full of Kardashians, social media, crazy stunts and high-stakes games, the little things are so refreshingly uplifting – like a small inflatable pool from Mitre 10 that cost $20. Or a bucket of soapy water and a piece of plastic. Or a cardboard box made into a hut. It always amused me how the best present for the kids at Christmas was never the toy itself, but always the box it came in. When the kids were little, they loved nothing more than to play with the box, hop in it and turn it into something fun. The wrapping was often more of a thrill than the actual present. And…

PLAYED BY AIDAN GILLEN WHY: A cunning weasel who smiles at your face while stabbing you in the back, Littlefinger is the master of political machinations. He’s not to be trusted, but, and it’s a big but, he did have a hand in killing Joffrey, so he can’t be all bad. Can he? PLAYED BY JONATHAN PRYCE WHY: Driven by a maniacal fervour, the High Septon leads the radical sect in the Faith Militant called the Sparrows. He tortures and kills in the name of religion, so Cersei is happy to roast him in wildfire. PLAYED BY CHARLES DANCE WHY: The richest and most powerful man in Westeros will do anything for the good of the Lannister name. And we mean anything. Even as a father, he has utter contempt…

What enticed you to go on Heartbreak Island a second time? I’m all about a bit of spontaneity! I got the call-up from production a few days before they wanted me there for filming, when I was in Australia for the Melbourne Cup in the Birdcage. I was hard done by on my first time on the island and came across as an arse. All of my friends said, “That wasn’t you at all.” I couldn’t turn down a chance to try to redeem myself. What was the highlight this time around? Many highlights! One was getting as far as I did and actually getting an opportunity to compete in challenges. Two was meeting a certain someone ... So, did you find love this time? I did! At least a…

Stronger than ever What a mag! Such a moving tribute to the beautiful people of Christchurch and their loved ones (WD, April 1). I know our great Aotearoa will rise again, making the love and bond between each of us stronger. Jacinda Ardern, you’re the rock of our nation and we all applaud you so much – your words were beautiful. A big thank you to the emergency services and all others involved. You’re legends. But watching the country rally around Christchurch, this is what stands out for me – helping our children understand that hate can’t prosper and love always wins. You’re forever in our hearts, Christchurch. • Stephanie, Tauranga Not so matchy-matchy It’s a bit embarrassing owning up to the fact that I’m a MAFS follower, but I…

DO IT ALL IN A SUBARU SUV Rain, hail or shine, Subaru drivers are covered with All-Wheel Drive as standard, which can take them across the country with confidence. And the all-new Forester SUV, much-loved New Zealand Car of the Year, is true to Subaru’s commitment to technology, safety and performance, featuring everything you need to fit more into your busy day. Priced from $39,990. Go to subaru.co.nz UP THE KIDS’ NUTRITION As those winter lurgies loom, it’s time to optimise the kids’ nutrition with essential vitamins and minerals. L’il Critters Gummy Vites™ has everything growing bodies need for healthy development – plus the little ones can’t get enough of their fun gummy bear shapes. L’il Critters™ Gummy Vites™ is New Zealand’s top kids’ gummy vitamin range.* Available at pharmacies…

The royals have a rule for almost everything, from how to sip tea, to what to wear for dinner, but when it comes to having her baby, the Duchess of Sussex is determined to do things her own way – no matter how much drama it causes. Due to give birth any day now, Meghan is expected to snub four decades of royal tradition by not having her firstborn in the Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital in London, where the Duchess of Cambridge gave birth to her children, reportedly because the former Suits star doesn’t want to copy Kate. Although Kensington Palace was yet to confirm the news as we went to press, it’s thought Meghan, 37, and her husband Prince Harry, 34, have instead opted for a hospital…

Tongues are wagging that not only are Andrew and Fergie headed up the aisle, but their eldest daughter is too. Just months after it was revealed Princess Beatrice was dating 34-year-old multi-millionaire property tycoon and longtime family friend Edoardo Mozzi, the couple were invited to join her parents on their official visit to Bahrain. Beatrice and “Edo”, as he is known to pals, appeared “head over heels in love”, according to witnesses. The outing and PDAs come after they made their official debut as a couple last September. “The timing’s perfect for an engagement,” says a source. “Beatrice must know he is deadly serious about her, otherwise she’d shy away from the publicity. They’ve been dating in secret for some time now and Beatrice is desperately in love with him.”…

Nicolas married his make-up artist girlfriend of one year after a drunken bender last month. She was his wife for just four days. After a whirlwind romance, Nicolas married waitress Alice in July 2004. The couple divorced 11 years later but share 13-year-old son Kal-El. A huge fan of Elvis, the actor said “I do” to the King’s daughter in a secret ceremony in Hawaii in 2002. It was over after just three months. Nicolas proposed to the actress the day he met her when she was 18. They didn’t tie the knot until she was 27 and divorced months later.…

Wild horses couldn’t drag Sir Mick Jagger away from his music career permanently – but when the veteran rocker was forced to postpone a string of concerts last week due to a heart problem, he decided he’d be a fool to cry. Instead, the 75-year-old granddaddy of rock packed up his ballerina girlfriend Melanie Hamrick, 32, and their two-year-old son Deveraux, and hit the beach! Mick, who was due to go under the knife to fix his faulty ticker as Woman’s Day went to press, was also joined by his daughter Georgia May, 27, as he enjoyed a family day of sun and sand in Miami. And with the pause button pushed on the US leg of their No Filter Tour, his Rolling Stones bandmates Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood…

Lorena Bobbitt is very matter-of-fact about the whole thing. There, she indicates, as she drives us around, was the hospital where surgeons reattached John Wayne Bobbitt’s penis after she cut it off with a kitchen knife as he slept on the night of June 23, 1993. Fifteen minutes away is the gravel-strewn field where she disposed of the detached penis out the driver’s side window. So why did she throw it away? “I was trying to drive the car, obviously, but it was difficult because I had this thing in my hand, so I got rid of it.” Further down the road is the nail salon where she worked and fled to that night. “I’m not a vindictive person – I told them where it was,” Lorena Gallo, as she…

Natalie admits she’s always asked what’s her best advice for new parents, so when Woman’s Day asked her, she didn’t miss a beat: “Remain calm!” In fact, the clinical psychologist says that calmness in child rearing is the number-one goal all parents should aim for because it has such huge benefits. “The calmer we can stay, the more likely it is that our children will regulate their own emotions and we know that emotional control has so many positive effects,” she explains. “We want our children to experience a whole range of emotions, but to be able to express them in a way that is conducive to happiness.”…

QI’m seven months into my second pregnancy, and this time I’m a lot bigger and a lot more interested in sex. My husband is wary that he’s going to hurt the baby, despite my assurances. Why is it so different this time? Is there one position that’s going to reassure him? • Curious, Whangarei A Varying levels of oestrogen and progesterone make for a different rollercoaster every pregnancy, but there’s really no way that sex is going to harm either you or your baby. There’s also no way to guarantee one position is better for a woman than another, so it’s not prescriptive. You need to reassure him that sex is good for you. If he isn’t swayed, then perhaps take him along to a GP appointment. Or encourage him…

Q We have some old family friends who we’ve socialised with for many years. Our kids have always been close, until recently. There was an incident at a party and I think our friends’ kid didn’t behave in a very honourable way. I just can’t sit there over drinks with our friends and pretend everything is OK. We’ve briefly talked about the incident, but our friends have brushed over it. What shall I do? • Bad Relations, Auckland AI think you should let them parent and you parent your way. The only other option is not have them over. You will never, ever win by rebuking parents about their dastardly offspring. Like it or lump it! Q My hubby is pressuring me to have another baby, but I’m unsure. I…

In Peggy Frew’s Islands(Allen & Unwin, rrp $32.99), Helen and John are too preoccupied with making a mess of their marriage to notice the quiet ways in which their daughters are suffering. Junie grows up brittle and defensive, while Anna is difficult and rebellious. When 15-year-old Anna fails to come home one night, her mother is not too worried – Anna has taken off before but always returned. Helen waits three days to report her disappearance. But this time, Anna doesn’t come back. Islands follows the disintegration of a marriage and the subsequent tragic events that reverberate through the entire family.…