THE LAND

“Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.” (John Ruskin)

The beautiful landscape where Relish is held is called Korimako, named for the NZ Bellbird, one of many bird species that thrive in this sanctuary whose song electrifies the forest in the early morning hours. The property is owned by Keri Addison, Chud Cunningham, Misi Sharplin, Alex Turnbull, and Kelly Black; as holders of Southern Culture Club memberships, we are all kaitiake (guardians) of this divine slice of forested river valley. Korimako spans a total of 50 acres, 25 of which are covenanted by the QEII trust - this means that those 25 acres of native forest are forever protected, and the landowners as well as wider Relish whanau are entrusted with its care. Weed and pest control are the primary modes through which we can protect the bush at Korimako; there are bait and poison traps throughout the property, sycamore eradication has been an ongoing working bee task, and hunters in the community have stepped forward to keep the wallaby population at bay throughout the year. The long term vision is to enclose the entire property, plus a section of neighboring covenant, in predator fencing, at which point more comprehensive pest eradication operations will unfold. There is an ongoing network of trails being developed throughout the forest adjacent the main village grounds, so that we can delight in and explore the forest without causing too much disturbance to the undergrowth. Cradled by the towering podocarps, the child in all of us is free to frolic and dance, and the wise giants of the forest remind us to honor the beauty of the nature around and within us all with deep gratitude.

The Water

“Run wild and free like a waterfall.” (Anamika Mishra)

The Hook River runs through the heart of Korimako and provides us with a tranquil refuge from the vibrant Relish village, as well as refreshment on a hot summer’s day. There are a number of swimming or dunking nooks to discover of different depths, shapes and sizes, depending on how the recent rainfall events have shaped the rocks below. The shores are lined with sand, stones, and clay, and provide ample space to lounge and let the sounds of the stream soothe your soul. The river is also fed by a number of springs which can be found near its shores and in the forest - this ground water is crisp and clear, though it is not regularly tested for use as a guaranteed safe drinking source.

There is running water from the town supply on site - both hot and cold - in the kitchen/dining tent, as well as a gas heated shower block beside the marquee. The main camping areas have drinking water available near the toilet blocks. We ask that all members bring enough vessels to hold a day’s worth of water - ideally up to 5L per person.

Low Impact Effect…

“Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time.”

The intention of using the land is one of low impact with a ‘leave no trace’ mentality; with this in mind, Relish is a waste-free event. We encourage everyone who comes to participate in Relish to treat the land like their home while they dance and play. Please consider what materials and things you bring in with you, be aware of your impact on the land, and keep an eye out for any MOOP - Matter Out Of Place. There are compost buckets in the kitchen/dining tent, but all personal rubbish and recycling should be taken home with you when the gathering ends. Looking after the land is a token of respect to the fact that we are guests to the trees, birds, and bees, as well as the property shareholders. Our aim is to pour love into the land, and this starts with a foundation of care and good housekeeping. Care for our fellow humans also falls under the umbrella of care for the surrounding environment.