Issue 01 marks the beginning of Bravado Magazine, a quarterly print publication exploring the creative bravado of those shaping Te Tai Tokerau and beyond. Where salon, style, culture, people and place intersect in quietly powerful ways.

At the heart of this debut issue is Ecosystems of Style, a feature editorial from the team at Bravado Hair Salon. Six stylists interpret Northland’s landscape through hair, exploring the connection between environment and expression. From coastlines to bushland, it’s a study in how we are shaped by the places we move through, and how we shape them in return.

Elsewhere in Issue 01, we explore seasonal shifts through our Summer Trend Report, drawing inspiration from nature and quiet comfort. We sit down with Dan Matene for 27 Questions With…, offering a glimpse into the mind behind Bravado, while Dr. Melissa Gilbert shares how menopause can influence hair health and overall wellbeing in The Truth About Hair Thinning in Menopause.

In Finding Gold in the Grit, local artist Josh Kiwikiwi reflects on style, success and self-trust, while Brewin’ the Vibes in Every Cup turns its attention to Brew’d Coffee Bar’s barista Venkatesh Thite, and the role great coffee and even greater energy plays in building community.

Across the issue, we explore how revolutions can start with a single drop of water, uncover a new favourite wine, and hear from Flight Coffee as they share their journey from humble beginnings to a nationwide presence.

Offered complimentary as our first release, Issue 01 is an invitation into our world. A way to experience the tone, the stories and the community we’re building, before what comes next.

Printed in a limited run, Issue 01 is designed to be kept, revisited and shared.