
It’s already heating up here in Mohua Golden Bay, and I’m looking for ways to keep myself and my whānau cool, hydrated, and feeling good. Getting a little creative with tasty, functional summer drinks makes a difference — suddenly we’re all drinking more, feeling better, and fully enjoying the long, golden days, from afternoon swims to after-dinner badminton on the lawn.
A cold jug of something delicious always disappears far quicker than a warm water bottle, and it’s a nice way to add extra nourishment too. Here are a few of my favourites for the hot days ahead — simple, refreshing and great for sharing over the holiday season.


Cleansing, cooling, and deliciously minty — this spritzer has become a daily staple for me. A splash of chlorophyll in chilled soda water and a sprig of fresh mint - a refreshing drink in under 30 seconds. Chlorophyll’s alkalising properties help support digestion and detoxification, making it an excellent companion through the festive season.

My go-to 3pm pick-me-up on droopy afternoons when there’s still plenty to tick off. BioBalance Matcha has such a bright, clean flavour and provides a gentle, sustained lift — no jitters, just clarity. I whisk the matcha with a little hot water and honey, pour it over ice, and top with cold frothed oat milk. Creamy, antioxidant-rich and sustaining.

A skin-loving, gut-nourishing tonic that also helps keep you full and steady on busy summer days. BePure Marine Collagen with ceramides and hyaluronic acid blends smoothly into almost anything, but I especially enjoy it with Matakana’s Plant Protein + Collagen Chocolate powder for a silky, nourishing shake. I often add banana or fresh or frozen berries for extra vitamin C and flavour. Perfect when it’s too hot to feel like a full meal.

The ultimate calming, restorative evening drink. Tulsi (holy basil) is an adaptogen known for supporting balance in body and mind, and in this blend it’s complemented by chamomile, rose, and lemongrass. When making a jug for guests or family, I like to add lavender or rose petals for extra aroma and appeal.

A quiet hero in my routine: BioTrace Concentrated Mineral Drops. I add a few drops to my water bottle each day to support mineral balance — especially important in sweaty weather. I’ve recommended these to so many people over the years because they’re such a simple, effective way to support hydration every day.
Here’s to long days, warm nights, and staying hydrated and refreshed as we soak up all the beauty of the season.