Sign In / Register
The beloved boutique gift store Studio Matakana in the village has new owners, with husband and wife team Scott and Juliana Cowen taking over and, well, cutting the ribbon in mid-June.
The Cowens, who live in Snells Beach with their four children, say they love Matakana and the surrounding areas and want people to know they don’t have to drive to the city to shop, they can stay local.
Juliana brings 30 years of retail experience and says they’re expanding the range of NZ-made and designed products on offer.
“It’s important to us to support Kiwi companies, especially smaller businesses, and to offer unique gifts that both locals and tourists are looking for.”
New additions include McGlashen pottery, natural bath bombs and a baby gift range featuring blankets made in Matakana.
Scott has overseen operational changes, including the launch of Studio Matakana’s first e-commerce website.
“The store has always been traditional, but now customers can browse online as well as in person,” he says.
“Our focus is on creating a seamless experience while still highlighting the tactile element of products – the feel, the fragrance, the detail – which is best enjoyed in-store.”
Studio Matakana continues to offer popular designers such as Karen Walker and local favourite Matakana Botanicals, alongside handcrafted glassware, jewellery, body products and homewares.
With options ranging from affordable cards to premium greenstone carvings, the Cowens hope to cater for every budget.
“We want Studio Matakana to be the go-to for thoughtful gifts – whether it’s for yourself, a friend or family member, a baby shower, or a souvenir to take overseas,” Juliana says.
