Coromind

Dive into the Full Audio Version of the latest issue of Coromind, celebrating the creativity, stories and people that make the Hauraki-Coromandel Peninsula such a special place.From inspiring local artists and musicians to environmental projects, personal journeys, community voices and reflections on life in our unique corner of Aotearoa, Issue 44 is packed with stories that connect, inspire and celebrate our rohe.Read the full mag at coromind.nzwww.coromind.nz

Former The Seagull magazine owner and editor Kaitlyn Gooch reflects on the evolution of local storytelling and the incredible growth of Coromind since she stepped away in 2022.Kaitlyn shares her thoughts on the importance of arts, artists and community connection across the Coromandel Peninsula — from writers and musicians to painters, performers and the people creating spaces for creativity to flourish.www.coromind.nz

Featured Artist, Bob Drummond, shares his journey from software developer to artist, exploring the creative connection between writing code, sketching, painting and building things by hand.After years of travelling the world for work, Bob discovered that carrying a sketchbook offered something a camera never could — a deeper connection with places, people and moments. From unexpected discoveries in Paris to capturing the character of Coromandel’s landscapes, historic buildings and coastal communities, his artwork is about more than what a place looks like; it’s about the stories and memories held within it.www.coromind.nz

Milly Moon takes us behind the scenes of the second independent tour of Walking Songs — a powerful performance born from her solo journey along Te Araroa, New Zealand’s 3,000 km trail from Cape Reinga to Motupōhue/Bluff.From intimate venues and unexpected travel chaos to moments of deep connection, emotion and what Milly describes as “magic” on the road, this story explores the vulnerability, resilience and joy behind creating and sharing original art.Joined by her sister Lucy-Belle, Milly reflects on the challenges of independent touring, the incredible generosity of communities across Aotearoa and Australia, and the unforgettable moments that made this final chapter of Walking Songs so meaningful.www.coromind.nz

How can a blank wall become a storyteller for an entire community?In this episode, brought to you by Coromandel’s CFM and supported by Rob Holding, we meet local artist Kylie Gunn, the creative force behind more than a dozen murals bringing colour, history and local stories to life across the Hauraki-Coromandel region.From Ngātea to Tairua and Thames, Kylie’s artwork celebrates the people, places and memories that make each community unique. www.coromind.nz

Whenuakite School student Thea Dozell shares the story of a special day of planting, learning and connection with the land. Students planted hundreds of native trees, helping restore local ecosystems while discovering the importance of biodiversity, erosion control and caring for their surroundings.Through the voices of students, teachers, parents and landowners, this story highlights how small acts of mahi can create lasting change — not just for the environment, but for future generations.www.coromind.nz

Ivan Anderson, a quiet craftsman whose extraordinary sculptures are created from ‘found’ pieces of swamp, beach and river timber.When Covid forced a change in direction, Ivan swapped bait and hooks for chainsaws and woodworking tools, transforming native and exotic timbers into unique works of art. From pūriri and tōtara to kauri, walnut and Tasmanian blackwood, each piece reveals the natural beauty, grain and character hidden within the wood.www.coromind.nz

What happens when the hunter becomes the hunted?In this episode of Wondering in Waikino, Amir Yussof weaves a dark and thought-provoking tale about cruelty, consequence, and the delicate balance between all living things.Johan finds pleasure in dominating creatures smaller and weaker than himself, until he encounters a mysterious spider unlike any he has seen before. www.coromind.nz

Anna Dunwoodie shares the story behind SaltWood, the duo she formed with Len, blending guitar, bass, harp and voices into a warm mix of folk, acoustic, jazz, blues and contemporary singer-songwriter influences.From a childhood surrounded by musical opportunities to a later-in-life musical awakening, Anna reflects on how music shapes our lives, the changing landscape of learning and performing in the digital age, and why live music and arts education remain so important.www.coromind.nz

Cuppa Words is a space dedicated to expression. In this edition: The Old Man by Howard Saunders, No limitations - Copyright © bos clipshill October 2023 and WHARF RD by Mary Fox.www.coromind.nz

What does it take to convince a government that your relationship is real?In this episode, writer Hilary Emerson Lay shares the surprisingly emotional, often hilarious journey of applying for a New Zealand partner visa. From compiling thousands of pages of WhatsApp messages and photo albums to crafting a 17-page relationship timeline, Hilary reflects on what it feels like to package your love story as evidence for an Immigration Officer you’ve never met.www.coromind.nz

Why do we sometimes choose leaders who are charismatic, confident, and persuasive — but not necessarily experienced, wise, or prepared for the role?In this episode of Ross’ Ramblings, Ross explores a question that has challenged societies for thousands of years: why do democracies sometimes reward the wrong people?Drawing on the ideas of Plato, modern psychology, and research into human decision-making, Ross examines the influence of charisma, confidence, emotion, repetition, and simple slogans on the way we choose our leaders.From ancient Athens to the modern political landscape, this thought-provoking piece explores the challenges of democracy, the importance of critical thinking, and the need for informed decision-making in an age of overwhelming information.www.coromind.nz

Who were the people who came before you? Where did they live, what challenges did they face, and how did their stories shape who you are today?Carolyn McKenzie explores the fascinating world of genealogy and family history — from uncovering the basic facts of our ancestors’ lives to discovering the stories behind the names, dates, and documents.Learn how to begin your own family history journey, where to find useful records, how to overcome those frustrating research “brick walls”, and why genealogy can become an incredibly rewarding (and addictive!) pursuit.With support from local branches of the New Zealand Society of Genealogists in Thames, Waihi, and Mercury Bay, this episode is an invitation to look back through the generations and discover the people who helped shape your story.www.coromind.nz

What happens when one person looks at a scarred Coromandel hillside and sees the possibility of a thriving native forest, a world-class railway, and a lasting legacy?That person was Barry Brickell.In this episode of the Coromind Audio Edition, we explore the incredible story of the visionary potter, conservationist, and engineer who transformed a damaged piece of land into one of the Coromandel’s most unique destinations — Driving Creek.Through determination, creativity, and a deep connection to the whenua, Barry built more than a railway. He created a place where art, engineering, and environmental restoration come together.Brought to you by Driving Creek, this story celebrates the pioneering spirit that continues to shape the Coromandel today.www.coromind.nz

Welcome to the Full Audio Version of Coromind Magazine, Issue 43 - July, 2026.Visit www.coromind.nz for more.www.coromind.nz

Pamela Ferla reflects on the ups and downs of everyday life, from rising costs and global news to misplaced glasses and garden weeds. But a flick through Coromind Magazine shifts the mood, offering colour, inspiration, and a reminder of the richness in local stories, creativity, and community life across the Coromandel.www.coromind.nz

Amplify Aotearoa is an intergenerational music project bringing rangatahi together with some of Aotearoa’s most respected musicians in professional studios and live performance settings. Now reaching the Coromandel, this kaupapa gives young local artists the chance to record, perform, and share the stage with Kiwi music legends, capturing the experience on vinyl and placing their voices into a national creative story.www.coromind.nz

In this feature, Gaylene Lonergan shares her love of colour, storytelling, and silk painting. Working with dyes and gutta on silk, she creates vibrant, whimsical works inspired by coastal life at Opito Bay, travel, and everyday moments of joy. A celebration of creativity, imagination, and the simple pleasure of art that makes people smile.www.coromind.nz

The KAURI 2000 project had its humble beginnings, more than 25 years ago, with a scattering of kauri seedlings in the Kūaotunu garden of Cliff Heraud. As Cliff contemplated what to do with these baby kauri, the ‘seed’ of an idea came about.www.coromind.nz

Voting isn’t just for older generations. Gabriel Johnston encourages young New Zealanders to get informed, enrol, and have their say. A timely reminder that the decisions made in Parliament today help shape the future we all live in tomorrow.www.coromind.nz

In this thoughtful reflection from Wāhi Tukurua, a pile of donated clothing becomes the starting point for a bigger conversation about waste, abundance, and the choices we make. Inspired by the spirit of Matariki, this piece invites us to consider not just what we throw away, but what we choose to bring into our lives.www.coromind.nz

Cuppa Words is a space dedicated to expression. In this edition: KUPU by WORDsmith and Sir Barren Church by Paul Catewww.coromind.nz

Charlene Scott shares a personal reflection on clay, creativity, and connection to Papatūānuku. She speaks about her journey into ceramics, the influence of motherhood, myth, and the feminine form, and how working with earth-based materials has reshaped her practice. A quiet, grounded piece about art, land, and returning to creative purpose.www.coromind.nz

Proud to be Local is our inspirational feature, highlighting homegrown Coromandel Peninsula folks doing wonderful things out in the world. In this edition, Clinton Edward. Brought to you by Rob Holding.www.coromind.nz

In this reflective instalment of Ross’ Ramblings, Ross Liggins explores the blurred line between habit and addiction. From a lifelong “addiction” to surfing, to reflections on alcohol, relationships, and modern digital dependence, he asks what we really mean when we use the word addiction, and how context shapes its impact on our lives.Honest, personal, and at times confronting, this piece moves between humour and hard truth, offering a lived perspective on behaviour, consequence, and self-awareness.Written and narrated by Ross Liggins.www.coromind.nz

A heartfelt journey back to India, this story follows Niharika “Nira” Giri as she returns to her ancestral village in Bihar to celebrate her Dhadhi Ma’s 100th birthday. Blending memory, whakapapa, and family tradition, she reflects on migration, cultural rituals, and the meaning of whānau across generations. From Delhi to Gopalganj, and from shared meals to a gathering of thousands, this is a story of roots, love, and coming home.Written and Narrated by Niharika Giriwww.coromind.nz

Inspired by a school mural and a lifelong love of fairy art, Emma Evangeline reimagines Aotearoa’s medicinal plants as magical beings. This enchanting article explores the stories, healing properties, and cultural significance of native plants through the lens of rongoā Māori, inviting us to reconnect with the living world growing all around us.Written by Emma Evangeline. Narrated by Lana Garland.www.coromind.nz

What if every payment helped keep more money in the Coromandel? In this edition of Tech for Everyday People, local developer David Crompton explains how ShopLocal.nz uses open banking to cut payment fees, simplify fundraising, and help local businesses get found online. A practical look at technology built for everyday people, and designed to keep local dollars in local hands.Written by David Crompton. Narrated by Ross Liggins.www.coromind.nz

Why do so many of us hesitate to create? In this thoughtful article, Hannah Beasley explores the hidden barriers to creativity, why mistakes are an essential part of the process, and how giving ourselves permission to begin can change the way we see the world. A gentle reminder that creativity isn’t about perfection, it’s about starting.Written and narrated by Hannah Beasley.www.coromind.nz

Welcome to the Full Audio Version of Coromind Magazine, Issue 42 - June, 2026. Visit www.coromind.nz for more.www.coromind.nzwww.coromind.nz

A reflective guest editorial from Brandon Amoamo on what it means to be raising mokopuna in Aotearoa today. Blending humour, cultural commentary, and sharp observation, he looks toward the future with questions about environment, society, and legacy, while celebrating the spirit of Coromind and its “Corocreators” shaping a more hopeful path forward.www.coromind.nz

Make sure you mark 10 July in your calendar for the Matariki Festival happening in Kūaotunu. Te Toi o Matariki will provide an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate the Māori new year.www.coromind.nz

Tairua artist Tanya Finlayson loves doing things that take a long time! She loves the challenge. And the intricate art that she creates does demand patience, commitment and a lot of time. It also requires talent.www.coromind.nz

A Kiwi cult comedy with roots deeper than its Waikato setting, The Tavern carries the spirit of the Coromandel through its characters, stories, and soundtrack of local life. Writer and creator Matt Hicks reflects on over a decade spent in the region’s pubs, festivals, and back-room yarns that helped shape the film’s heart. From grassroots screenings to national success, this is a story of how a small-town film found its voice, and its audience.www.coromind.nz

What if your bank account worked for you instead of your bank? In this edition of Tech for Everyday People, David Crompton explores the rise of open banking in New Zealand and how it could make payments faster, reduce fees, improve financial tools, and give consumers more control over their money and data.www.coromind.nz

Milly Moon shares the story behind a solo show that grew from footsteps on remote trails into a heartfelt performance toured across Aotearoa and beyond. Blending music, storytelling, grief, love, and connection, this is a reflection on creativity, courage, and the unexpected ways art can touch people’s lives.www.coromind.nz

A steep ski run, a confident beginner, and an unforgettable lesson in gravity. In this light-hearted story, a family day on the slopes turns into a dramatic downhill slide when young Finn discovers that gravity never takes a break. A humorous reflection on falls, spills, and why sometimes the blame belongs to physics, not people.www.coromind.nz

When you talk to Peter Felix Muller, you get the sense that he’s never been in a rush. That’s not to say he hasn’t achieved a lot – he’s done plenty. But his approach to art, whether it’s behind a camera or at the jeweller’s bench, has always been more about flow than force.www.coromind.nz

Cuppa Words is a space dedicated to expression. In this edition: Riven with tears by Helen Oliver and I am falling into you by Yaning Ma Foremanwww.coromind.nz

Clementine and Valentine Nixon, aka Purple Pilgrims, are sisters who make music together. At times playful, ethereal or hauntingly enigmatic, their ever-evolving sound is hard to categorise but certainly falls into the alternative realm.www.coromind.nz

Proud to be Local is our inspirational feature, highlighting  Coromandel Peninsula folks doing wonderful things in our community. In this edition, Liam Ryan. Supported by Rob Holding.www.coromind.nz

Walk through a healthy Coromandel forest and you’ll notice the understorey thriving, young seedlings emerging, ferns unfurling, and shrubs providing food and shelter for native wildlife. One of the biggest pressures on this vital layer of the forest comes from wild goats, which can strip vegetation and hinder regeneration. Learn more about goat control in the Coromandel here!www.coromind.nz

I joined the Mercury Bay Writers  when it was formed back in February. We meet once a month and are given a topic and/or genre to write a 500-word piece about. Our first assignment was to create ‘a dialogue’ and the second was to write ‘A descriptive mishap’. I would like to share my attempts with you, so here they are. www.coromind.nz

It’s been over 20 years since Whitianga started a local festival in celebration of the local seafood and coastal culture – and with the 21st event taking place on the Whitianga marina waterfront on 19 September, it’s time to reflect on why the Whitianga Oceans Festival is still one of New Zealand’s most loved regional food and lifestyle events!www.coromind.nz

Welcome to the Full-Audio version of Coromind Magazine,  Issue 41 - May, 2026. Visit www.coromind.nz for more.www.coromind.nz

When we clapped eyes on the first issue of Coromind, it was like “WOW”, such a beautiful, colourful and classy magazine in the cafe … free to take. www.coromind.nz

Surfing inspired my affinity with the ocean and my motivation to paint it. I first surfed in Whangamatā, and it has always been a special place for me, so its world-class waves are a pleasure to paint.www.coromind.nz

On a gloomy Thursday morning, as a heavy rain warning loomed over Hauraki, a group of whānau (people) gathered at the waharoa (entrance) of Kerepēhi Marae, awaiting the karanga (welcome call) that would welcome them in. www.coromind.nz

To date, I’ve spent $9,204 NZD on visas alone. I still have another $315 to go when I apply for Permanent Residency in 2027, and $560 more if I decide to go for NZ citizenship in 2032. I knew it would be expensive, but it ended up being about $4,000 more than I’d expected, thanks to both an extra, unexpected medical exam and Immigration nearly doubling its fees – with very little warning – in October 2024.www.coromind.nz

I was exhausted, but I couldn't fall asleep. I tried meditating, which usually does the trick, but not this time. The day's challenges and residual issues still pervaded me. I lay awake while the full moon and stars filled the room with surreal and magical light, sedating me somewhat...www.coromind.nz