How is that spelt?

An ancient grain that’s enjoying a modern revival is being grown organically near Bulls in Manawatū. I talked to Harry Russell-Bowen of Ratahi Farm about the benefits and challenges of growing spelt. One of the many original species of wheat, spelt (Triticum spelta) is a cross between emmer wheat and goat grass. It’s grown today […]

Bugs that eat Bugs

Bioforce

Biological control of garden pests by insects, mites and parasites Using beneficial insects, mites and parasitoids to control pest arthropods, and other biological problems such as fungi, pathogens and weeds, is known as biological control (biocontrol). It’s gaining popularity as a viable, non-toxic solution to many biological issues on horticultural sites, in farming applications, and […]

Sleeping au naturel

Guruta Koster

On the hunt for a peaceful night’s kip, I visited four natural bed manufacturers and discovered some of the secrets behind a healthful slumber. Many a bad back is caused by poor mattresses, says Sukhita Derova from natural bedding company, Innature. She would know. As a professional cyclist in her youth, the sport put her […]

Recipe for an eco kitchen

Natural Kitchens

Custom-made kitchen cabinetry using natural materials may be more expensive up-front, but it’s healthier, long lasting, and won’t end up clogging our landfills like cheaper products. A chat with West Auckland craftsman cabinetmaker Roland Zander about his business, Natural Kitchens, brought up a number of things to consider in creating more sustainable kitchens.    In […]

Low-tech Living in a light-earth house

Theresa Sjoquist

  No fridge, the laundry by hand, and wheelbarrowing composted humanure around are not everyone’s lifestyle cup of tea, but for Wolfgang Hiepe and his wife, Sabine Drueckler-Hiepe, it’s a good lifestyle. Learn why they’ve prioritised resilience and independence over convenience. Wolfgang and Sabine emigrated from Germany in 1987, full of verve and the pioneering […]