Issue 22: Winter 2025

  • For those who wished to dance

    For those who wished to dance

    Revisiting the Ruby Island cabaret. In October of 1928, the Wānaka correspondent for the Cromwell Argus reported on developments at a local island: “This peaceful little beauty spot is to be the site of a unique and picturesque cabaret. Placed on the highest point, sheltered, yet within full view of the dancing wavelets of the…

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  • Freezing for fun

    Freezing for fun

    The cold never bothered me anyway. “Take off your clothes,” the Italian woman says. She’s speaking in English, into a loudspeaker. The crowd lining the poolside and balcony go quiet. “Get into the water.” Eight of us shuffle to the edge of the pool. There is one ladder for two lanes. The competitor in lane…

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