Older homes have undeniable charm, but they often lack the modern storage solutions that make everyday living more convenient. Whether it’s a stunning Federation-style property or a classic ‘70s-era house, clever storage solutions can maximize space and enhance your home’s value.To get the most out of your home’s unique layout, consider hiring an a... read more

The property market is picking up speed, and with the recent 0.5% cut to the Official Cash Rate (OCR), things are looking even more promising for buyers and sellers alike.Even before the Reserve Bank's latest rate drop—its fourth cut since last August—average property values were already on the climb. The OneRoof-Valocity House Value Index shows a ... read more

Ingredients:2 cups plain flour1 teaspoon baking soda¼ teaspoon salt½ cup butter, softened1 cup white sugar1 large egg2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (use 4 tablespoons for a stronger lemon flavour – for an even bolder taste, add a few drops of lemon extract)1 teaspoon lemon zest½ teaspoon vanilla essenceA few drops of yellow food colouring (optiona... read more

If you're contemplating an upgrade or purchasing your first home, now is a great time to assess market conditions that could work in your favor.Across New Zealand, listings have surged to record levels, while the Official Cash Rate (OCR) has dropped from its July peak of 5.25% to 4.25%. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's aggressive rate cuts have he... read more

If you believe that summer is the prime time to achieve the best price for your property, there’s still time to take advantage of the remaining warm weeks and impress potential buyers.Late summer can be a strong selling period, especially for homes with desirable outdoor features like a pool, entertainment area, or even a tennis court. However, rus... read more

Ingredients:225g dried pasta of choice1 tablespoon olive oil125g onion, finely chopped3–4 cloves garlic, minced1 tablespoon butter450g chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces½ teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper250ml heavy cream50g Parmesan cheese, grated50g sun-dried tomatoes, cho... read more

The buzz is real—Benjamin Moore has unveiled its Colour of the Year 2025 alongside a stunning Colour Trends Palette, and it’s a feast for the eyes. These 10 shades capture the pulse of today’s design trends while pointing toward the future of interiors.This year, the focus shifts away from the bold and overly saturated hues of recent seasons. Inste... read more

Ingredients400 g almond paste2 eggs1 sheet fresh puff pastryInstructionsPreheat your oven to 200°C and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry and slice it into two long strips.Create the almond filling by combining the almond paste with one egg. Mix and knead the mixture until smooth.Divide the almond fill... read more

There’s growing optimism that New Zealand’s property market is making a comeback, fueled by a third consecutive cut to interest rates.The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has slashed the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by another 0.5% to 4.25%. While it’s still early days for the latest reduction, the effects of previous cuts are already evident.Real estate ag... read more