Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 24, 2024 i Woman's Day Magazine NZ

This issue of Woman’s Day is all about love – the good, the bad and the ugly. The latter, of course, comes courtesy of Married At First Sight New Zealand, with feuding newlyweds CJ Huxford and Jesse Brooke explaining on page 14 how a “loopy” little argument about a toothbrush kicked off their Cold War. I’m told this season of MAFS is actually outrating the last Aussie series, so I know I’m not the only one who’ll be lapping up every word! But if you’re looking for real romance, turn instead to page 18 to meet Olympic medallist Dylan Schmidt’s girlfriend Maddie Davidson, who is also heading to Paris as part of Aotearoa’s trampolining team! We fell in love with Dylan after he won an unexpected bronze in Tokyo…

The bidding war is over, with Netflix beating Disney and Apple for the rights to Kylie Minogue’s life story. The popstar is said to be rolling in cash after securing a reported seven figures, but the 56-year-old is also more than a little nervous. “Kylie’s really worried about opening up like this and has moments when she wants to pull out altogether, but she knows her story is incredible,” a close source reveals. “It’s one so many people can relate to – heartbreak, success, failure and, of course, her cancer struggle. But Kylie doesn’t want this to be all sweet cherry pie and gold hot pants. “She wants to give her fans a real warts-and-all insight into her most challenging moments, including the death of Michael Hutchence, missing out on…

After just under a year of dating, things are getting very serious between Rami Malek and Emma Corrin, with the superstar lovers moving into a swanky $10 million London mansion amid engagement rumours. The Bohemian Rhapsody actor, 43, and his partner, 28, who played a young Princess Diana in The Crown, are neighbours to Harry Styles in the exclusive northern suburb of Hampstead. “Rami and Emma are madly in love,” an insider spills. “They are both really serious about each other. Even though they’ve only been dating for 11 months, they are moving quickly because, for them, this relationship feels like forever. Their friends have said they wouldn’t be surprised if Rami proposed soon.”…

While soaring to new heights on a trampoline, Dylan Schmidt and Maddie Davidson have tumbled head over heels for each other! As they prepare for next month’s Olympic Games in Paris, the gymnasts are opening up for the first time about their romance, which has blossomed since they both represented New Zealand in trampolining at the Games in Tokyo, where Dylan won a surprise bronze medal. While they have different interests away from their sport – former Celebrity Treasure Island star Dylan loves playing golf and hunting, while Maddie is a talented baker – they share a mutual understanding of the pressures of competing on the world stage. “We both know what it’s like to make one tiny mistake that can cost you a place in the final or a…

Gorgeous former Shortland Street star Charisse Uy radiates happiness as she poses for our camera with her mum and grandma by her side. Turning to her mother, she squeals, “Aww, you look so gorgeous, Mama!” Her mum Tina blushes, while Charisse’s grandmother Ruth chuckles, “I’ve never had my makeup done before,” then complains the Woman’s Day team isn’t eating enough of the snacks she’s laid out. Though this may seem like a simple whānau photoshoot featuring three generations, Charisse’s family story isn’t exactly straightforward. Legally speaking, her grandmother is her mum and her mother is her sister. Born in the Philippines, the 27-year-old – who played nurse Lovely Rivera on Shorty, and has also starred in Raised By Refugees, Cowboy Bebop, The Wilds, The Legend Of Monkey and The Shannara…

ESCAPING ABUSE Kia ora, Jay-Jay! My dilemma is that I was in a relationship where I was gaslit, and mentally and physically abused. Finally, after 10 years of friends telling me I had to leave, I worked up the guts to go when I found out my partner had another lover. The thing is, now all my friends have taken my ex’s side! I was never allowed to hang out with my mates when I was with my ex – I had to be home for him and for the kids. It’s breaking my heart and I miss my friends so much, but they’ve gone quiet on me. I hate to see my besties, who he hated, together with him at functions! I’m so lonely and just sit at home…

Skirt tales Pleated skirts are OK and minis aren’t for everyone, but the forever-chic slip skirt is a wardrobe utility er- piece like no other. Whether you prefer a functional midi-length or an ankle-sweeping maxi, look for slinky textiles and bias cuts for an ultra-flattering fit across your curves. An elastic waist offers a comfortable fit for wearing and styling. Keep the palette simple and pair with block colours or neutral-hued prints. Statement colo Make a bold impression with bright combos. Style your slip skirt with this asymmetric ruffled top in a wild watercolour print, then layer up with pops of colour. Clashing brights used here include a pumpkin-coloured coat and a tangerine accessories. Off-duty cool Working style Make your slip skirt office-fit with a timeless, earthy-neutral palette. Pair with…

Almond ricotta with toasted almonds, lavender & coconut syrup Delight your taste buds with a gluten-free treat! MAKES ABOUT 250G To make almond ricotta, place 400g almonds (no skins, soaked in cold water overnight), 220ml water, 100g coconut cream and 2 tsp salt in a high-speed blender. Carefully prise 2 probiotic capsules (dairy-free powder), open and pour into the blender. Discard the actual capsules – you don’t want those in the ricotta! Blend until very smooth and silken, using an agitator to continually move the mixture down towards the blade, if your blender has one. This might take 3-5 mins. Scoop blended paste into a clean, dry porcelain or glass bowl and cover with muslin to allow it to breathe. Leave at room temperature overnight to ferment. Taste the ricotta…

Gemini 22 MAY – 21 JUNE Life’s little luxuries might be hard to resist this month, but in a stroke of synchronicity, your knack for business could prove impressive. If you’re sitting on a good idea, chat with the boss or run it past a canny friend. Things could progress quickly. STAR TIP Ready for romance? Friday’s escapist stars contain the right ingredients. JULIETTE LEWIS The Yellowjackets star celebrates her 51st birthday on 21 June. Cancer JUN 22 – JUL 23 As the song says, let the good times roll – and don’t feel guilty as you deserve it. Book a pampering session, organise a long lunch or catch some live entertainment. With the Sun and Venus both cruising into your sign, it’s time to enjoy a few little –…

EDITOR Sebastian van der Zwan DEPUTY EDITOR Amy Prebble CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Denise Bowden ART DIRECTOR Mirella Monteiro DESIGNERS Anna Pétursdóttir, Béla Trussell-Cullen, Debby Wei, Hayley Pearce PHOTO & EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Kellie Blizard BEAUTY EDITOR Anna Lee MANAGEMENT CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jane Huxley GENERAL MANAGER Stuart Dick EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Sarah Henry ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Claire Chisholm claire.chisholm@aremedia.co.nz SALES MANAGER Chloe Jordan chloe.jordan@aremedia.co.nz SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Jacquie Fraser jacquie.fraser@aremedia.co.nz COMMERCIAL BRAND MANAGER Bridget Hewitt bridget.hewitt@aremedia.co.nz CAMPAIGN MANAGER Angela Wei Woman’s Day is published by Are Media Ltd, PO Box 52122, Kingsland, Auckland 1352. Printed by Webstar, 114 Swanson Road, Henderson, Auckland 0610. © 2024. All rights reserved.…

Although she was irritated when she first discovered her boyfriend Oli Green was 15 years her junior, Sienna Miller has since realised younger blokes are more “respectful”. Opening up about her romance with the 27-year-old actor, Layer Cake star Sienna, 42, says, “There’s a difference in the way that generation of men respect women. It’s specific to him – he is very wise and well adjusted – but I do believe it’s also that generation. They have grown up in a slightly more level playing field. I see it in his female friends as well as in the men.” The actress adds that the relationship took her by surprise, confessing, “I didn’t expect to take it seriously and then, quite quickly, I fell in love. I wasn’t like, ‘I’m…

In an optimistic message, the Princess of Wales has revealed that she hopes to return to her public duties in the near future. The mum-of-three, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, sent a message to the Irish Guards ahead of their final rehearsal of their Trooping the Colour parade, apologising that she wouldn’t be able to attend but that she hoped “to represent you all once again very soon”. On 16 January, Kate, 42, was admitted to hospital for major abdominal surgery and post-operative tests confirmed the presence of an unspecified cancer. She started a course of “preventative” chemotherapy in February. ‘She’s coming back 100% to do the great work she was doing’ While Kate’s been out of the public eye, rumours have swirled that she might never be able…

When Married At First Sight New Zealand’s surprise bride and groom were introduced at the altar in idyllic Vanuatu, it seemed like this could be a coupling that just might work. Both attractive and nervously excited, Cara “CJ” Huxford and Jesse Brooke looked picture-perfect together. But even then, tensions were brewing. “She said something about being sassy in her vows,” Jesse, 30, tells Woman’s Day. “I wouldn’t call it a red flag, but it’s something that stuck in my mind.” And the Auckland mortgage advisor was later unimpressed when he heard that CJ had challenged the other brides to pick which of their husbands they’d “kiss, marry, kill”. He tells, “I wanted someone who was kind and that didn’t seem like a kind thing to do.” But CJ, 32, had…

BEN TURNS TO EX-WIFE JEN It’s no secret that Ben Affleck’s marriage to Jennifer Lopez is on the rocks, with endless rumours about marital issues reaching fever pitch last week, when the couple put their $97 million LA mansion on the market. Now Ben, 51, has been spotted looking happier than he has been in weeks during an intense conversation with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner, 52, at one point even throwing his head back with laughter. The couple – who have remained close as they raise their three kids, Violet, 18, Fin, 15, and 12-year-old Samuel – were also joined by Ben’s mum Chris, who couldn’t help but wrap her arms around her former daughter-inlaw for a big hug. The sighting comes just days after J.Lo, 54, cancelled her This…

$245 million SPELLING MANSION HOME IN THE ’90S $25,000/month WOODLAND HILLS RENTAL HOME FOR 4 MONTHS She grew up in a 123-room mansion in one of Los Angeles’ most prestigious neighbourhoods, but Tori Spelling is now searching for her fifth rental property in a year as she struggles to find a place to call home – and her billionaire mum Candy is reportedly refusing to bail her out this time! The reality star, 51, and her five kids had been living in a $25,000-a-month, fully furnished home in California’s West San Fernando Valley, but last week, discarded couches, pet carriers and piles of rubbish were seen strewn on the street out the front. “It’s completely trashed,” the owner revealed, while a neighbour added, “The smell of urine is everywhere.” A…

The date 1 March 2022 will forever be etched in the memory of Dr Natalie Gauld as it’s the devastating day she was told she had motor neurone disease. “The first month after my diagnosis was horrendous,” the Aucklander recalls. “My family and I grieved for what we would be losing. Then after a few weeks, I thought, ‘I’m not going to get in a wheelchair and regret wasting time feeling sorry for myself!’ “So I got on with making the most of my mobility, and having fun and different experiences. I try to take one day at a time and focus on positives. It’s good for me and it’s better for others that way.” The impact of her illness on her family, including husband Matt, and daughters Lauren, 23,…

Winter is with us and your garden will be reflecting this seasonal shift. Don’t for a moment think of it as a boring time – the cooler landscape can be a beautiful thing! It’s also a time many of your garden plants are having a well-deserved rest and when jobs like digging can be done comfortably in the warming winter sun. THINGS TO DO • Depending on your region and zone, frost can start to be an issue. Keep a roll of frost blanket on hand to throw over sensitive plants on those clear, chilly nights. Plastic sheeting supported on stakes can often be utilised as an emergency substitute, but make sure it’s removed before the sun hits the plants! • Plants that have finished their flowering, such as camellias,…

PANCAKES WITH BANANAS & HOT PECAN SAUCE SERVES 4 PREP 15 MINS + RESTING COOK 40 MINS • 11 /3 cups self-raising flour • 1 tbsp caster sugar • 300ml milk • 1 egg • butter, for frying • 2 bananas, sliced • ice-cream, to serve (optional) HOT PECAN SAUCE • 90g milk chocolate, chopped • ½ cup cream • ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted, plus extra, to serve 1 Sift flour into a bowl. Stir in sugar and make a well in the centre. 2 In a jug, whisk milk and egg together. Gradually whisk into dry ingredients until smooth. Set aside 20 mins. 3 Heat a large frying pan on medium. Add a little butter, swirling to coat. Using ¹/³ cup batter per pancake, cook 2-3 mins,…

Q Do you see me finally finding my soulmate? If so, when? Is there anything I should be doing to help with the process? I’m also getting very worried that I haven’t been able to find a job in two years. Please help. Very Lost MITCHELL SAYS I’m picking up that there are some very promising opportunities on the horizon for you. I’m told that during the months of August and September, your situation will begin to shift, and you’ll find a much better footing that will allow you to move forward in life with confidence and security. Please consider applying for a job in an area you don’t have much experience in. If you express a willingness to learn as you go, you’ll be given a chance. I feel…

Major Crush! They celebrated his 46th birthday last week and it looks like happily married couple Justin Long and Kate Bosworth are still on a high in New York. That’s hot! Paris Hilton channelled the early noughties as she stepped out in a pleated mini and newsboy cap in New York City. Wonder who designed the T-shirt? Three’s a charm Six weeks after welcoming her daughter Townes, Hilary Duff braved the LA streets with her girls Mae, three, and Banks, five, in tow! Top of the crops! Top of the crops! Rihanna looked sensational with a stylish new cut at the launch of her Fenty Hair product line in LA. “You know how much switching my hair up matters to me,” she told fans. Double thumbs-up Hip-hop star Post Malone…

There were fears she’d never sing again due to her agonising battle with stiff-person syndrome, but insiders say Céline Dion is set to make her big return to the stage at the opening of the Olympic Games in Paris next month. “She’s never given up hope and always puts goals in front of her to measure her recovery,” reports a source close to the 56-year-old star. “Singing at the Olympics is one of those and she’s doing everything she can to make that happen, despite the limitations she’s facing. “Just being there at the opening ceremony would be an amazing thrill for her. However, she’s got her eye on the prize and singing at that historic event would be an unforgettable moment.”…

If Simone Nathan had known as a little girl that she would have two weddings, her mind might have just exploded. The stunning Kid Sister actress and writer recently married Taskmaster NZ star Paul Williams for the second time at a star-studded affair in the Bay of Islands. The couple had previously wed in a Jewish ceremony in Sydney late last year and the experience has been documented in her “semiautobiographical” TVNZ+ show, which returns to our screens for a second season this week and in which Paul also stars. Simone – who has also written for Our Flag Means Death, The Gone and Dark City: The Cleaner – is talking to Woman’s Day from her parents’ Auckland house, where she’s living before she moves to London with Paul. The…

Sophie Hambleton’s second appearance in The Brokenwood Mysteries is a colourful one. Set amid a Mexican Day of the Dead festival, this coming Sunday’s episode sees the actress glammed up in a bright costume, complete with bejewelled face paint. “The makeup and wardrobe department created amazing looks for each actor, including beautiful colour-matched headpieces,” recalls the star, who’s most famous for her role as the hilariously ditsy Carol O’Driscoll on Westside. “It was so much fun, but I had to wash off the makeup before I left the set so it didn’t stain the hotel linen!” Hotel life has been a recent theme for Sophie, 39, who last year made the tough call to move from Wellington to Auckland, where The Brokenwood Mysteries is shot, with her partner, actor/ musician…

Waikato besties Jackie Robertson and Becki Ross always have plenty to chat about on the phone most days. Both are single mums and career women in their forties, who love being physically active. They’re witty, determined and optimistic – and they also have stage four colon cancer. “When Bex and I were diagnosed, we were both such fit, strong, active women, so it was a real shock,” says Jackie, 46, a mum to 12-year-old Zac, who is nonverbal autistic. “But I totally believe in the power of the mind and the minute you give in to something, you accept it. I told Bex, ‘We’re not going to be a statistic!’” The duo first met through the rowing community in 2010, however, it wasn’t until a mutual friend of Becki mentioned…

Niko’s runaway adventures AMANDA SAYS Niko tells me he’s eight years old and in great shape. He also tells me he ran away, but it wasn’t his home he escaped from. Niko had lived with Morgan’s dad since he was a kitten but went to live with Morgan after Niko’s home got sold. Niko escaped out the window as he didn’t want to stay – Morgan has a cat called Josh and the two didn’t see eye to eye. Josh says if Niko comes back, they can be friends. Niko says he is very nervous around people and evades capture. I tried to encourage him to go home as I know he misses the family and comforts of home. MORGAN SAYS I was just hoping Amanda would be able to…

What makes House Of The Dragon different from other fantasy shows? Matt: House Of The Dragon is huge in scale. Its ambition has always been that. The sets are like little worlds in themselves and you can get lost in them. I mean, they’ve built a whole town, essentially, over five different sound stages. It could house a small army, no doubt. Every single department on House Of The Dragon is up to such a high standard. We’ve got a wonderful crew who work tirelessly and endlessly to produce a show that has the scale, quality and detail that ours does. How hard was it for you to get back into the character? Emma: When I went back to Leavesden Studios, and put on the wig and the costume, it…

DOUBLE VISION HELENA BONHAM CARTER Everyone loves a bargain – and Helena is no exception! It looked like she scored a cracking twofor-one deal at the optometrist while running errands in London. Rainbow Rita RITA ORA The bisexual singer was flying her pride flag at a charity dinner in Hollywood. No sign of her Kiwi hubby Taika Waititi, but the outfit is sheer brilliance! Botox-free zone... SARAH JESSICA PARKER And Just Like That star SJP had a tough day on set in NYC, where she was spotted feeling every emotion possible. Good to see she can still express herself – unlike some frozen-faced stars! COME FLY WITH ME! JUDE LAW The actor’s luscious locks hung on for dear life as he battled the wind in New York. Is that his…