Southern-based culture and lifestyle magazine, The Life, has released its celebratory tenth edition, with the annual publication continuing to shine the spotlight on stories across the south.

Published by Naked Creative, the magazine will be available for purchase in stores and online next week.

Like all businesses, COVID-related disruption has made business tough for media publishers over the past two years. But in the face of this challenge, The Life team made a commitment that no matter the commercial outlook for the magazine, they would push through and publish annually.

The Life Editor Carla Forbes said it was important to continue telling stories of resilience and it served as a tool to celebrate our local people during some tough times.  

“We all wanted to hear about those businesses and people who had trucked on through COVID, and it is incredible to see everyone come out the other side as we celebrate 10 years.

Reaching such an incredible milestone for the magazine is something we’re so proud of. We absolutely love sharing the inspiring stories of our people and region,” she said.

To celebrate 10 years of The Life, the team have launched a new look for the magazine.  

Naked Creative Chief Executive Erin McCall said it was an evolution that reflected the rapid rate of growth and change in the southern regions.

“There are people locally doing truly amazing things. Every year we are inspired by what is happening in our own backyard – but none more so than this year,” she said.

The cover features Six60, arguably New Zealand’s highest profile band, with proud roots in the southern region. 

Forbes commented it felt fitting to have them as this year’s cover story.

“Six60 is not only an incredibly successful band, they have also shown a huge commitment to supporting the next generation of musicians coming through from the south,” she said.

Edition 10 has a variety of content ranging from inspiring arts and entertainment to health and wellbeing, delicious recipes, gorgeous fashion, innovative businesses, tourism, and the rejuvenation of the south. 

McCall said producing The Life was always a highlight for the studio.

“Like every year, the team has worked incredibly hard on this edition, and we can’t wait for people to see it,” she said.