From Here: Elizabeth French
From Here is a collection of conversations with the people who know the Tutukaka Coast best — not just where to go, but when, and why. Locals who’ve grown up here, or made it home in their own way, sharing quiet rituals, favourite spots, and the small moments that shape life on this part of the coast. It’s less about big itineraries, more about noticing what’s worth slowing down for.
Today we are joined by Jo-Ann Elizabeth French, the designer behind Elizabeth French Jewellery — a brand of handcrafted pieces shaped by life on the coast and the natural world around her.
Based on the Tutukaka Coast, Elizabeth draws constant inspiration from her surroundings — the shifting light, rugged coastline, and slower pace of life that shape both her creative process and way of living. This connection to place is woven through her work, grounding each piece in a sense of calm and intention.
Here, Elizabeth shares a glimpse into her life on the Tutukaka Coast and how it continues to influence the jewellery she creates.
What’s a typical morning like on the coast for you?
Most mornings start down at the Tutukaka Marina with the twins; coffee in hand, catching up with friends or locals, walking the dogs, and just getting the girls outside and moving. Other mornings, Simon and I head to Sandy Bay together, taking turns surfing while the other sits on the beach with the twins, or one of us heading out early so the other can still make it to work. However it looks, mornings are almost always spent outside, somewhere along the Tutukaka coastline, letting the place set the pace for the day rather than the clock.
Any hidden spots/places of note you’d recommend to visitors?
I wouldn’t really call them hidden spots; more places to explore. Most of the bays along the Tutukaka Coast are worth taking the time to wander through. On a small swell and low tide, you can walk from Tutukaka Marina to Ngunguru, passing quiet little bays that are perfect for stopping, swimming, or just sitting for a while. The Tutukaka Lighthouse walk is also beautiful, especially at low tide, and the walk from Matapouri to Whale Bay is another favourite. These are places that reward curiosity and patience rather than a set plan.
What local event really brings people together?
The Tutukaka Twilight Markets in summer definitely do; they have a way of pulling everyone together at the end of the month. But more than any one event, it’s summer itself. Life returns to the coast, eateries and shops open seven days a week, people linger longer, and the whole community moves at the same pace. Summer is when the Tutukaka Coast feels most alive and connected.
What shouldn’t someone miss if they only have a day here?
Whale Bay. It’s one of the most tranquil bays on the Tutukaka Coast. The walk down is shaded, through kauri trees and nīkau palms, and once you reach the bay there are pūriri and pōhutukawa trees to sit beneath and escape the sun. On still days, you can sometimes spot sea life moving through the clear, turquoise water. It’s a place that really stays with you; and one we try to protect as locals, keeping it quiet and cared for so the wildlife and birds that rely on it can continue to thrive.
If time allows, a meal at Schnappa Rock Restaurant is also not to be missed. It’s an iconic part of the Tutukaka Coast, with incredible food, waterfront views, and an atmosphere that feels unmistakably Northland; made even better by a nationally recognised, award-winning chef.
What’s changed recently – and what do you hope never does?
Recently, becoming a mum to twins has changed everything; in the best way. It’s shifted my routine, what feels important, and how I move through this place. I’m exploring the coast differently now, not just heading to beaches to surf, but wandering more, slowing down, and seeing it all through their eyes. I want to show them the beauty of this natural environment as they grow. What I hope never changes is the community here; especially places like our surf shop, Tutukaka Surf in Tutukaka Marina, where locals, kids, and surfers all pop in for a chat. That sense of connection, especially through the quieter winter months, is what really carries us, alongside a coastline that still feels raw and deeply cared for.
Where can we find you?
You’ll usually find me somewhere along the Tutukaka Coast; at the marina at Tutukaka Surf, on one of the local beaches, or out in the surf at a nearby break. When I’m not outside, I’m in my workshop or studio, creating pieces in silver, gold & gemstones inspired by this unique coastline, the lush bush, and everything that makes this place feel alive.
Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing what makes Tutukaka such a special place. You can find more of her work right here: elizabethfrenchjewel.com