Wellington/Hurricanes Last In Line
The head of selectors for the All Blacks be it right now or the next off the cab (from 2024) are seemingly going to continue to ignore the credentials of Wellington Lions and Hurricanes players. No matter that we won the 2022 provincial champs and are holders of the Ranfurly Shield and just might go on to win the Super Pacific Comp from currently lying second on the table.
Foster casts his eyes firstly over Waikato and The Chiefs and Razor Robertson is so firmly set in the Crusaders grip he may never quite emerge out of it when it comes down to selections for his AB teams.
A couple of weeks ago, a notable media guy and Canterbury faithful was asked by Sky's Breakdown panel to name his ABs side after 3-4 weeks of Comp. That guy went on to name almost the entire Crusaders team who have several ABs on the injury list who have not fronted so far this year and he included a guy who has played just one game for the Crusaders and managed to name Ardie Savea with a note that he hadn't played up to his best a few days earlier but just had to include him at No 8.
Well if Scot Robertson is a close associate of this fellow, it is going to be extra tough going here in the capital.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.4% Yes
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22% No
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0.6% Other - I'll share below
Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin
In an exciting development for local spirits enthusiasts, Elsewhere Gin has released a limited edition Kapiti expression that truly captures the essence of our coastal region.
This unique gin, priced at $95 per bottle, is the result of a heartwarming collaboration between Elsewhere Gin and Mark Rose's parents and their friends in Kapiti who embarked on a community foraging adventure, handpicking an array of native botanicals including kohekohe, kauri tips, strawberry guava, horopito, and kawakawa. These locally sourced ingredients were combined with classic gin botanicals, lemon, and rosemary to create a spirit that is both familiar and distinctly Kapiti.
The gin offers a sensory journey through our coastal landscape. It opens with subtle vanilla notes from the kohekohe, followed by the sweetness of strawberry guava. The addition of horopito lends a peppery kick, while kawakawa adds a unique herbal complexity. The finish showcases the zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary that grow abundantly in our region.
"This gin is a love letter to Kapiti," says Rose. "It's not just my creation, but a true community effort. Every sip tells a story of our unique ecosystem, our shared knowledge, and the incredible flavors we have right here in our backyard."
With only a small batch produced, this Kapiti gin is expected to sell out quickly. It's more than just a drink; it's a bottled experience of our local terroir and community spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the finer aspects of craft spirits and the beauty of our coastal home.
Available exclusively through Elsewhere Gin, please contact Michael Anderson for this limited edition gin that offers a rare opportunity to taste the Kapiti coast - and its community - in a glass.
Michael Anderson
021 620 065
Email; michael.anderson@xtra.co.nz
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.