Turua Gallery is proud to present Kindred, a vibrant new joint exhibition by New Zealand artists Alicia Beech and Helen Dean opening Friday 12 June – 24 June 2026.
Bringing together two distinct yet intuitively connected artistic practices, Kindred explores the unexpected parallels between the artists’ creative journeys and shared sensibilities. Though working independently over the past decade, the pair recently discovered common threads within their practices — including a deep connection to nature, movement, colour and emotional expression.
The exhibition pairs Dean’s expressive, gestural abstraction with Beech’s intricate, nature-inspired floral works — a dynamic contrast that delivers both harmony and tension. Together, their work offers a rich interplay of movement and precision, colour and form, capturing a sense of joy and light during the winter months.
The artists first connected more than ten years ago when Dean reached out to Beech for advice at the beginning of her artistic journey. While they remained aware of each other’s work over the years, it was only through conversations surrounding this exhibition that they recognised the many parallels within their practices and creative evolution.
At the heart of the exhibition is a shared exploration of how different visual languages can emerge from similar foundations.
Beech’s work draws directly from her garden and surrounding landscape, where observation meets imagination. Inspired by ever-changing seasonal blooms, her paintings reimagine natural environments through layered colour, rhythm and movement.
Dean’s practice explores abstraction through a restrained and intentional lens. Working within a limited palette of magenta, yellow, black and white, her paintings shift between vibrancy and quiet restraint, with layered marks and forms that blur boundaries between control and spontaneity.
“There is a constant negotiation between letting things happen and making decisions,” Dean says.
Together, the exhibition presents two distinct approaches to painting — one grounded in lived, natural experience, the other in abstraction and intuitive mark-making — united by a shared appreciation for colour, emotion and creative exploration.
Owner of Turua Gallery, Liss Wallace, says the exhibition carries a unique energy.
“Kindred is a beautiful meeting of two artists whose practices speak to each other in unexpected ways,” she says. “There’s a real sense of harmony and contrast in the work that makes it incredibly engaging — it’s full of colour, movement and joy, which feels especially powerful for a winter show.”
The collection will include a wide range of works across varying sizes and price points, offering accessibility for both emerging and established collectors.
With its emphasis on colour, connection and creative discovery, Kindred is set to be a standout exhibition on the winter arts calendar.
Exhibition Details
Kindred – Alicia Beech & Helen Dean
Opening: 5pm, Friday 12 June 2026
Exhibition Dates: 12 June – 24 June 2026
Location: Turua Gallery, 10a Turua Street, St Heliers, Auckland
 
About Turua Gallery
Turua Gallery is dedicated to making contemporary art accessible within a welcoming and relaxed environment. Representing both established and emerging New Zealand artists, the gallery presents a curated programme of exhibitions that prioritise emotional connection, craftsmanship and storytelling.
 

Artificial turf has become a popular choice for Auckland homeowners who want a lawn that looks tidy without the constant upkeep of natural grass. It offers a clean, green surface throughout the year and can be used in areas where real lawn is difficult to maintain.

For busy households, families with pets, rental properties, and smaller urban homes, artificial turf can make outdoor areas easier to use and care for. It removes many of the common problems that come with natural lawns, including mud, patchy grass, weeds, and frequent mowing.

A Lawn That Stays Green Year-Round

One of the biggest advantages of artificial turf is its consistent appearance. Natural lawns can change depending on the season, weather, shade, soil quality, and how often the area is used.

Artificial turf stays green throughout the year. It does not need watering, fertilising, mowing, or reseeding to maintain its appearance. This makes it a practical option for homeowners who want a lawn that looks neat without regular weekend maintenance.

For homeowners considering this type of upgrade, Growing Gardens offers artificial turf solutions for Auckland properties, including residential lawns, play areas, pet-friendly spaces, and low-maintenance outdoor areas.

Less Mud and Mess

Auckland weather can make natural lawns difficult to manage, especially during wetter months. Areas with poor drainage or heavy foot traffic often become muddy, patchy, and uneven.

Artificial turf can help reduce mud and mess around the home. When installed with the right base and drainage preparation, it provides a more reliable surface after rain and helps keep outdoor areas cleaner.

This is especially useful for families with children or pets who use the lawn regularly.

A Practical Choice for Small Spaces

Many Auckland homes have smaller outdoor areas, courtyards, side yards, or compact backyards. In these spaces, natural grass can struggle due to shade, limited airflow, or frequent use.

Artificial turf can make small spaces feel greener and more usable. It creates the look of lawn without the maintenance challenges that often come with growing grass in tight or shaded areas.

It can work well for:

• Courtyards
• Small backyards
• Side yards
• Front lawns
• Pet areas
• Play areas
• Rental properties

Good for Families and Pets

Artificial turf is a practical option for households that use their outdoor areas often. Children can play outside without turning the lawn into mud, and pets have a cleaner surface to use throughout the year.

It also helps reduce the need for patch repairs in areas that receive heavy foot traffic. For homes where natural grass becomes worn, muddy, or uneven, artificial turf can provide a more durable alternative.

Easier Ongoing Maintenance

Although artificial turf still needs some care, it is much easier to maintain than natural lawn. Regular brushing, clearing leaves, and occasional rinsing are usually enough to keep it looking tidy.

Homeowners do not need to mow, water, fertilise, spray weeds, or repair bare patches. This can save time and reduce the ongoing effort required to keep an outdoor area presentable.

Homeowners looking for more detail can learn about artificial grass and turf installation in Auckland through the Growing Gardens website.

Installation Quality Is Important

Artificial turf performs best when it is installed properly. The surface needs suitable preparation, a stable base, good drainage, secure edges, and careful finishing.

Poor installation can lead to uneven areas, water pooling, movement, or a finish that does not look natural. A professional installation helps the turf sit correctly and last longer.

When Artificial Turf Makes Sense

Artificial turf is not always the right choice for every property, but it can be a strong option where natural lawn is difficult to maintain.

It may be worth considering if:

• The lawn becomes muddy often
• Grass does not grow well
• The area receives heavy use
• The space is small or shaded
• You want less maintenance
• Pets or children regularly use the area
• You want a tidier year-round finish

For these situations, artificial turf can provide a cleaner, more reliable surface.

Final Thoughts

Artificial turf is becoming more common across Auckland because it offers a neat, low-maintenance alternative to natural grass. It can help reduce mud, improve usability, and keep outdoor areas looking green throughout the year.

For homeowners who want a lawn without constant mowing, watering, and repair work, artificial turf can be a practical upgrade. When installed properly, it can create a cleaner and more usable outdoor space for everyday living.

Winter in Hawke’s Bay comes alive with glamour, jazz, vintage fashion, and unforgettable experiences during the annual Winter Deco Weekend in Napier. Held from 17–19 July 2026, this boutique celebration brings the spirit of the Art Deco era back to the streets of Napier, giving visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the elegance and excitement of the 1930s.

From dazzling cocktail evenings and live jazz performances to vintage car displays and themed dining experiences, Winter Deco offers something for everyone. Visitors can wander through Napier’s famous Art Deco streets dressed in fur wraps, hats, suspenders, and pearls while soaking up the atmosphere that makes Hawke’s Bay one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations.

Napier is internationally recognised for its stunning Art Deco architecture, rebuilt after the devastating 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake. Today, the city is considered the Art Deco capital of New Zealand and attracts visitors from around the world who come to experience its timeless charm and heritage celebrations.

The festival is more than just an event. It is a chance to slow down, enjoy great food and wine, discover local culture, and experience the warmth and hospitality Hawke’s Bay is known for. Online discussions from recent festivals highlight the incredible atmosphere, with visitors praising the vintage fashion, classic cars, live entertainment, and the vibrant energy throughout the city.

For those planning a winter escape, Ace High Motor Inn is the perfect base for your Winter Deco getaway. Conveniently located close to Napier’s city centre and festival attractions, Ace High Motor Inn offers comfortable accommodation where guests can relax after a day of festivities. Whether you are attending themed events, exploring Hawke’s Bay wineries, or simply enjoying the vintage atmosphere of the city, staying nearby makes the entire experience even more enjoyable.

Winter Deco Weekend is one of Hawke’s Bay’s most stylish winter events and the perfect excuse for a memorable mid-year escape.

Contact Us:
 +64 6 843 3109
 0800 270 361
 www.acehigh.co.nz
 info@acehigh.co.nz

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027 458 7724

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Open Art Studios Upper Harbour returns, 9 & 10 May 2026

For one weekend only, a series of normally private art studios across Auckland’s Upper Harbour will open their doors to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how art is created.

Returning for its second year, Open Art Studios Upper Harbour takes place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026, inviting visitors inside the working spaces of local artists — from home studios and tucked-away creative hubs to established studio environments not usually accessible to the public.

Funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board, the expanded 2026 programme features nine studios and 20 artists, offering visitors the chance to move between spaces and experience a diverse range of practices, materials and artistic approaches.

From sculptors and painters to illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers, each studio offers a distinct experience — with artists on hand to share their process, demonstrate techniques and offer original works for purchase.

Led by Renée Tanner of Lightbox Projects, the event continues to spotlight the depth of creative talent across the area.

Renée Tanner, Event Manager of Lightbox Projects, says: “This is about opening up spaces that people wouldn’t normally get to see. After a strong response in our first year, we’re already seeing even more artists come on board for 2026, with additional studios still to be confirmed.

“These are real working studios — often private, personal environments — and for one weekend, the public is invited in.”

“It’s a chance to experience art where it’s actually made. To meet the artist, ask questions, and see the process up close — not just the finished work on a gallery wall.

Unlocking Auckland’s hidden creative spaces

Studios are located across Greenhithe, Albany, Rosedale, Unsworth Heights and surrounding Upper Harbour suburbs, spanning everything from intimate home studios to shared creative environments.

Renée continues: “Open Art Studios is also part of a wider series of open studio events across Auckland, with Kaipātiki and Waitākere opening their studios later in the year, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of this growing network connecting artists and communities.”

Some of the participating artists this year, include:

●      Ryan Mateo Art  (Albany Heights)- A self-taught wire sculptor inviting visitors into his home-based studio, where metal is shaped into expressive forms. Guests can watch the creative process, explore a range of hanging and table-mounted sculptures, and take part in hands-on wire weaving, with original works available to purchase.

●      Barry Ross Smith (Greenhithe) - an oil painter creating surreal imagery of islands dotted with colonial villas and oversized birds. His works obliquely draw concern for our environment and the after effects of colonialism upon our native species.

●      Sarah Ward (Greenhithe) - an award-winning textile artist creating predominantly abstract quilts, known for bold and expressive works as well as more restrained palettes.

●      The Freemanz Studio (Greenhithe), offering a glimpse into hyper-realistic pastel works in progress, revealing the precision and detail behind each piece.

●      Mead Ceramics and Apollo Clay & Art – live pottery demonstrations across the weekend for all ages, with visitors also able to purchase handmade cups, bowls and everyday pieces directly from the artists.

Visitors can expect live demonstrations, artist conversations, and the opportunity to purchase work directly from the studio.

Across the weekend, a series of special events offer additional ways to connect with the artists and experience their work.

Opening Night | Friday 8 May, 5pm–7pm | Greenhithe Old School Building
Kick off the weekend with a relaxed opening evening bringing together artists, organisers and the local community. Enjoy drinks and nibbles, meet the creatives behind the studios, and pick up your event map to plan your weekend route.

Zen Tea and Mindful Painting | Sunday 10 May,  2pm–4pm | Mount Top Art Studio, Unsworth Heights
Step into a calm, reflective studio setting with artist Xie Yi for an immersive session combining traditional tea rituals with mindful painting. A slower, sensory experience designed to encourage creativity, presence and connection.

Event Details

What: Open Art Studios Upper Harbour

When: Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 May 2026, 10am–4pm

Where: Artist studios across the Upper Harbour area

Cost: Free entry

Website: www.upperharbourarts.co.nz

Whether you’re an art collector, a lover of beautiful pieces or simply curious, this is a rare opportunity to step inside private studios and experience art at its source, and one not to be missed.

www.upperharbourarts.co.nz

From early May, Hawke’s Bay moves into a strong run of headline events, with major concerts, touring acts, and standout performances across Napier and Hastings. It is the ideal time to plan a stay at Ace High Motor Inn and experience the region at its best.

May: Major Concerts and Tribute Shows

May is packed with high-profile live music and touring productions:

• The Pink Floyd Experience – The Wall Tour (7 May) at Napier Municipal Theatre, a full-scale production recreating one of rock’s most iconic albums
• Rock Tenors – Anthems Reloaded (17 May) bringing a powerful mix of opera and rock
• Landslide – Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute Show (23 May) at The Cabana, celebrating classic hits from one of music’s most influential bands
• Ireland: The Voyage (29 May) a large-scale theatrical production combining music, dance, and storytelling

May stands out as one of the strongest months for live entertainment, with multiple major shows drawing visitors into the region.

June: Winter Performances and Orchestral Highlights

June continues with a strong line-up of indoor events and touring acts:

• Best of the Boss – The Bruce Springsteen Experience (6 June) delivering a high-energy tribute performance
• NZSO: Romeo & Juliet (11 June) at Toitoi Opera House, Hastings, featuring Prokofiev’s iconic score performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
• Fabric-a-brac Hawke’s Bay (13 June) a large fabric and craft market supporting Cranford Hospice
• Ongoing theatre productions, live music, and community events across Napier and Hastings

June offers a balance of headline performances and relaxed winter activities.

July: Winter Highlights and Touring Shows

July continues with seasonal events and touring entertainment:

• Matariki Mahuika Beach Fires (11 July) a cultural celebration on Napier’s coastline
• Magic Men Australia – Feel The Magic Tour (10 July) a high-energy touring performance
• Rat Pack and Marilyn: Vegas Legends (22–23 July) a classic tribute show experience
• School holiday activities and indoor events across the region

Stay Close to the Action

From The Pink Floyd Experience and Fleetwood Mac tribute in May to the NZSO Romeo & Juliet performance on 11 June, Hawke’s Bay delivers a strong calendar of major events through the cooler months.

Ace High Motor Inn provides a convenient and comfortable base, with easy access to Napier, Hastings, and all key venues across the region.

Contact Us:
 +64 6 843 3109
 0800 270 361
 www.acehigh.co.nz
 info@acehigh.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Turua Gallery is proud to present Vintage, a highly anticipated solo exhibition by celebrated New Zealand artist Jody Hope Gibbons, opening from 5pm on Friday 15 May and running through to 27 May.
This deeply personal exhibition offers collectors and art lovers a rare opportunity to experience The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection — a curated body of works spanning decades of the artist’s practice. Featuring pieces held closely by the artist for years, Vintage traces the evolution of Gibbons’ signature style, while revealing the enduring threads that connect her work across time.
One of the original artists to join Turua Gallery, Gibbons has long been a favourite among collectors — many of whom credit her work as their very first art purchase. Others have followed her journey for years, building collections that reflect her dynamic evolution while retaining the unmistakable essence of her practice.
“We often say Jody is a master with colour, but she is equally a master of texture, layering and subtle detail,” says Turua Gallery owner Liss Wallace. “Vintage is incredibly special — it’s not just an exhibition, it’s a window into an artist’s life and creative journey. These are works she has lived with, loved, and, in many cases, held onto for years.”
Visitors to the exhibition will also experience a unique gallery setting, with a selection of Gibbons’ personal vintage collection — including rugs, chairs and found objects — thoughtfully incorporated into the exhibition design. An avid collector, Gibbons draws significant inspiration from these pieces.
“They really do influence my work,” she explains. “Old worn surfaces, the patina, the layers of colour and history — they all inform what I’m creating. Sometimes I’ll find something in a vintage store, and later you’ll see that colour palette appear in a painting.”
Known for her richly layered works that span abstract painterly forms, contemporary landscapes and assemblage, Gibbons’ practice is driven by an innate and lifelong need to create.
“I have to paint. I can’t imagine a time when I won’t,” she says. “It’s not a chore, it’s a choice — something I need to do.”
That drive has been present since childhood. Gibbons recalls being unable to leave the art table at kindergarten, preferring to create rather than play outside — an instinct that has shaped a lifelong career defined by dedication, curiosity and continuous evolution.
Her work has never stood still. Instead, it has developed organically over time.
“It’s evolved naturally,” she says. “There’s an underlying thread through the work — even as it changes, it’s still me. I can’t stay still, I just keep moving forward.”
Vintage also offers insight into the artist’s process, revealing the depth behind works that may, at first glance, appear spontaneous.
“These works are not a happy accident,” Gibbons explains. “There’s composition, structure, proportion — layers and marks underneath that give the painting its depth. There’s a lot going on beneath the surface.”
While the exhibition celebrates her career, it also comes with a sense of vulnerability.
“You’re putting a part of yourself out there,” she says. “It doesn’t get easier — there’s always that feeling of exposure.”
Adding to the emotional weight of the show is the fact that many of the works on display are personal favourites, pieces that have lived in her home and studio for years.
“It will be exciting, but also a bit sad,” she admits. “Some of these works have been part of my everyday life for a long time.”
Despite the nerves, Vintage promises to be a standout exhibition — a rare and intimate look at one of New Zealand’s most beloved contemporary artists, and a celebration of a career defined by passion, persistence and an unwavering commitment to making.
Gibbons’ work is held in private collections across New Zealand and internationally. Her previous solo exhibition with Turua Gallery in 2021 sold out online, despite being held during pandemic restrictions.
With strong demand already building, collectors are encouraged to register their interest with Liss on melissa@turuagallery.co.nz ahead of the presale on Thursday 14 May.

Exhibition Details:
Vintage – The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection
Opening: 5pm, Friday 15 May
Exhibition Dates: 15 – 27 May
Location: Turua Gallery, 10 A Turua Gallery, St Heliers, Auckland

About Turua Gallery
Turua Gallery is dedicated to making contemporary art accessible within a welcoming and relaxed environment. Representing both established and emerging New Zealand artists, the gallery presents a curated programme of solo and group exhibitions that prioritise emotional connection, craftsmanship and storytelling.
Alongside original paintings, Turua Gallery also showcases limited-edition prints, sculptures and ceramics, celebrating the breadth of artistic talent across Aotearoa New Zealand.
turuagallery.co.nz
@turuagallery
 
 

Choosing an escort in Auckland is not simply about availability. For many, it is about finding a refined, discreet, and genuinely enjoyable experience that aligns with personal expectations. With a wide range of options available, knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

The first consideration should always be reputation. Established agencies with a long-standing presence tend to offer a higher level of reliability and professionalism. An agency that has operated consistently over time demonstrates not only stability, but also a commitment to maintaining standards and client trust.

Equally important is the quality of profiles. A reputable service will present companions in a clear and transparent manner, with well-written descriptions and professional imagery. Authenticity is key. The best experiences often come from companions who are not only visually appealing, but also personable, engaging, and genuinely attentive.

Discretion is another essential factor. A high-end escort experience should feel seamless, private, and respectful of boundaries. This extends beyond the encounter itself and includes communication, booking processes, and overall client care. Agencies that prioritise discretion tend to attract a more discerning clientele and maintain a stronger reputation.

For many, the appeal lies in the Girlfriend Experience, often referred to as GFE. This style of companionship emphasises connection, warmth, and natural interaction. Rather than something transactional, it offers a more relaxed and engaging dynamic, where conversation and chemistry play a central role.

Variety and selection also contribute to the overall experience. A well-curated agency will offer a diverse range of companions, each with distinct personalities and qualities. This allows clients to find someone who aligns with their preferences, whether they value elegance, charm, intelligence, or a particular presence.

Ultimately, choosing the right escort in Auckland comes down to trust, presentation, and the ability to deliver a consistent standard of quality. It is about selecting a service that understands the importance of discretion, authenticity, and attention to detail.

Dark Angels, an established escort agency based in Auckland, reflects these principles through its carefully curated selection of companions and its commitment to professionalism. With a focus on refined experiences and genuine connection, it continues to serve clients who expect a higher standard of companionship.

For those seeking a more considered and elevated experience, taking the time to choose the right agency can transform a simple booking into something far more memorable.

For many New Zealand homeowners, buying a spa pool starts with a simple search and quickly becomes a much bigger decision. With so many models on the market, and a wide range of prices, features, and build standards, knowing what to compare can make a major difference to long-term value and satisfaction.

While appearance often draws buyers in first, industry professionals say the most important factors are usually the ones that are less visible at a glance. Build quality, insulation, servicing support, and suitability for New Zealand conditions all play a major role in how a spa performs over time. Trueform Spas, based in Helensville, has spent more than 40 years manufacturing spa pools in New Zealand and says buyers are becoming more informed about what matters beyond the initial price tag.

One of the first things buyers are encouraged to assess is how and where the spa will be used. A couple looking for evening relaxation may need something very different from a family wanting room for children or guests. Size, seating layout, jet placement, and overall depth all affect comfort, and choosing the wrong layout can lead to a spa that looks good on paper but gets used less often in practice.

Insulation is another major point of difference. In New Zealand’s outdoor conditions, a spa needs to retain heat efficiently to keep running costs under control. Lower-priced models can sometimes appear attractive upfront, but if they lack proper insulation or use lower-grade materials, they may cost more in power and maintenance over time. For many homeowners, the better comparison is not just purchase price, but overall ownership costs across several years.

Support and servicing are also important considerations, especially for larger purchases intended to last. Buyers are increasingly asking where a spa is made, how easy it is to source parts, and whether help is available locally if something needs attention. New Zealand-made products can offer an advantage here, particularly when manufacturers and service teams are based in the same market as their customers. Trueform says this local support is one of the reasons many homeowners choose to buy from a domestic manufacturer rather than relying on imported stock alone.

Health and wellbeing have also become a bigger part of the buying conversation. Spa pools are no longer seen only as luxury items, with many buyers looking at them as tools for stress relief, recovery, and better sleep. Features such as ergonomic seating and targeted hydrotherapy jets can make a meaningful difference for people wanting to use a spa regularly rather than occasionally.

Warren Leslie, Managing Director of Trueform, says buyers tend to be best served by looking at the full picture rather than narrowing their choice too early around a single factor.

“People often start with price, but they quickly realise that quality, comfort, and long-term support are just as important,” he says. “A spa should be something you enjoy for years, so it makes sense to compare how it is built, how it performs, and who is standing behind it.”

As more New Zealanders continue to invest in their homes and outdoor living spaces, the spa pool market is likely to remain competitive. For buyers, that means more choice, but also a greater need to compare carefully.

Industry advice remains consistent. Look beyond the brochure photos, ask questions about insulation and servicing, think realistically about how the spa will be used, and consider long-term value rather than upfront cost alone. In a category where comfort, durability, and support all matter, taking a more informed approach at the start can lead to a much better result over time.

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