A Cozy Conversation with Radha from Studio Jay

This month’s Candle Club box, Arrow River, is inspired by Arrowtown in Autumn.

Alongside your candle, you’ll find a small keepsake — an illustrated Arrow River vinyl sticker by New Zealand artist Radha, the creative behind Studio Jay.

We asked Radha a few questions about her work, her inspiration, and the landscapes that shape her art.

From Keepsakes to Landscapes

Q: First things first — can you tell us a little about how Studio Jay began?

A: I actually started Studio Jay back in 2012, when I created a baby keepsake for my then 5 year old for his bedroom. I started selling the keepsakes and nursery wall art online, and slowly over time, have moved into illustrations of New Zealand landscapes.

I tend to illustrate what I love, and because I grew up camping and hiking in NZ back country, then most of my work is of NZ's wild mountains and lakes and the gorgeous scenery. 

Q: What first drew you to illustration, and how did it grow into what it is today?

A: My dad is an artist (all sorts of mediums - acrylic, oils, charcoal, pencil, welding, you name it, he's probably tried it!) and so I guess it's always been in my blood. I've also dabbled in various styles of art over the years - henna designs, fashion design, acrylic paints, chalk art, digital illustration. In the more recent years I do most of my illustration digitally on the ipad, because I have 4 kids now, and getting paints out with them around can be messy! 

Q: Do you have a favourite piece you’ve created? What makes it special to you?

It's hard to say a favourite piece because I think I've done it, and then a few months later I might create something else that is my new favourite. I do love anything with some snowy peaks in it though, so I'd have to say my Aoraki or Hooker Valley prints are high up on my faves list.

Q: If people would like to see more of your work or follow along, where can they find you?

A: You can see all my latest work in my IG - www.instagram.com/studiojay.nz or purchase any of my prints on the website - www.studiojay.nz

Closing

This month’s Candle Club box is all about capturing a place — and the feeling of being there.

Radha’s illustration is a small piece of that story — something you can carry with you, whether it ends up on your water bottle, journal, or tucked into a notebook.

A reminder of autumn and of slowing down.

And we're so grateful to Radha for her story and for sharing her art with our candle community.

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Homemade Granola Recipe for Slow Mornings

One of my favourite things to make at this time of year is homemade granola. It’s simple, comforting and fills the kitchen with the smell of toasted oats, honey and cinnamon (yumm).

I usually make a batch on Sunday morning and store it in a jar for the week ahead. It’s perfect sprinkled over yogurt, served with warm milk or enjoyed alongside fresh fruit and a cup of coffee.

And if you ask me, granola tastes even better when there’s a candle burning nearby. :)

A Simple Homemade Granola Recipe

This recipe is easy to adapt depending on what you have in the pantry. Think of it more as a base you can adjust to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats

1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts work beautifully)

1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/3 cup maple syrup or honey

1/3 cup melted coconut oil or butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional after baking:

½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries or chopped apricots)

Method

• Preheat your oven to 160°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.

• In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, coconut, seeds, cinnamon and salt.

• In a small jug, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil and vanilla extract.

• Pour the mixture over the oats and stir until everything is evenly coated.

• Spread the granola evenly across the baking tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and fragrant.

• Allow the granola to cool completely before adding any dried fruit.

• Store in a jar or airtight container and enjoy throughout the week.

(Though in our house, it rarely lasts that long.)

Recipe for the Perfect Slow Morning

A bowl of granola.

A warm drink.

A few quiet minutes before the rest of the house wakes and the day begins.

From the Studio

At Little Batch Wax Co., we strive to encourage small, seasonal moments like these. For more cozy recipes and slow living tips, subscribe to our monthly newsletter (here).

My Favourite Scenic Hikes Near Auckland

Perfect for an Autumn Adventure

One of my favourite things about living in the North Island is how quickly you can leave the noise of the city behind and step into native bush, rugged coastline or forest tracks.

Autumn is my favourite time of year to hike. If you're looking for somewhere beautiful to walk this season, these are a few of my favourite hikes near Auckland — each one with views that make the climb worthwhile. There’s nothing quite like finishing a hike and coming home to a hot shower, a delicious drink and a candle lit for the evening.

Here are a few of my favourites.

1. Hunua Ranges

📍 Cossey–Massey Loop Track

The Hunua Ranges feel like stepping into another world — towering native bush, birdsong echoing through the valleys and winding tracks that open up to incredible views.

The Cossey–Massey Loop Track is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and for good reason. The track takes you through beautiful forest, across small streams and up to sweeping viewpoints over the ranges. (AllTrails.com)

The loop is about 8 km and usually takes around 2.5–3 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

If you’re already in the area, it’s also worth stopping by Hunua Falls nearby — especially after rain when the waterfall is at its most dramatic.

(This is actually where we’re planning a Candle Club community hike later this autumn - eek.)

2. Waitākere Ranges

📍 Mercer Bay Loop Track

If you want a hike with truly spectacular coastal views, Mercer Bay Loop Track is hard to beat.

This short but incredibly scenic walk takes you along rugged clifftops overlooking the Tasman Sea. On a clear day the views stretch endlessly across the ocean, with waves crashing against the black sand beaches far below.

The loop is only 2.3 km, so it’s perfect if you want something shorter with a big payoff. (AllTrails.com)

Just be mindful that parts of the track run close to the cliff edge — the views are incredible, but it’s definitely a place to take your time and tread carefully.

3. Omanawanui Track (Huia)

The Omanawanui Track is one of the most spectacular coastal hikes in the Auckland region.

This trail climbs steadily up a ridge before opening out to a 360-degree lookout across the Manukau Harbour, the Tasman Sea and the dramatic coastline of the Waitākere Ranges.

(AllTrails.com)

The track itself is about 4 km, but be warned — there are a lot of stairs. Thankfully the views along the way make every step worth it.

On a clear autumn day the light across the harbour is absolutely stunning.

4. Karamatura to Mount Donald McLean

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, this track is a rewarding climb through the heart of the Waitākere Ranges.

The hike begins in lush native bush before climbing steadily up toward the summit of Mount Donald McLean, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the ranges, the Manukau Harbour and even central Auckland in the distance. (AllTrails.com)

It’s a longer walk — about 11 km — but for experienced hikers it’s one of the most satisfying day hikes in the region.

Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Hike

Summer hikes are beautiful, but autumn is when the forest really feels peaceful.

The temperatures are cooler, the tracks are quieter and the soft golden light filtering through the trees feels almost cinematic.

It’s the perfect season to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the outdoors.

For me, some of the best times of the season happen on these walks — stepping through the bush, listening to the birds and watching the landscape move toward winter.

If you’re planning a hike this season, here are some top tips I follow:

• Start early with a slow breakfast

• Pack something warm to for the walk

• Take your time on the trail — there’s no rush

• Come home, light a candle and unwind for the night

Looking For More Cozy Autumn Musings?

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