Thirty one years ago, when Te Kaha was doing his final stint in rehab, he fell in love with pounamu and discovered his life’s work: learning about his whakapapa and telling those stories in the shapes of the stone. Te Kaha now creates taonga pounamu, including hei tiki, mere and hei matau, along with pieces that his wife Cristina, a silversmith from the Scottish Highlands, transforms into modern jewellery. They live on Tūhoe land and their business is a whānau affair with their three tamariki, who are homeschooled, all getting involved.

Anne Bailey was living her dream career when two consecutive head injuries forced a change of course. She’s now found an alternative dream life as an artist, gardener and part-time folk musician.

Shapes of Summer light exhibition, orchestrated by Angus Muir, has joyfully illuminated Tauranga’s waterfront. Head along with the whānau to experience the world-class installations.

The Hands on Tauranga service is bringing history to life at schools. Students can handle moa bones, play traditional Māori games, explore obsolete tech, and inspect a meteorite that’s billions of years old.

Kokako Retreat is three small pods in a native bush-filled corner of a farm. It’s an ideal nature-lovers’ escape, with walking trails and lively birdlife, but it also offers a free stay for those impacted by mental health issues.