Kokopelli Arts Studio in Rimu Street is Shirley Ann Petkau and her husband Slim Petkau.  She is from Phoenix, Arizona, and our discussion didn’t take long to switch from art to politics, including American politics. Unlike in NZ and in fact most First World countries there just isn’t the political will there for major reforms, particularly to the expensive and bureaucratic health system dominated by the insurance industry. Powerful lobby groups have a disproportionate amount of influence; and we won’t get started on the media.

Next to their drive is this red manuka bush, an important species.  Info