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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Welcome to the Full Audio Version of Coromind Magazine, Issue 43 - July, 2026.

Visit www.coromind.nz for more.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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