Tesori is a European home design store in Mt Eden Village.
It is owned and operated by Jan and Willemina Van der Velden. Wilhelmina travels to Europe three times a year to buy for the store and to keep abreast with the latest in home design.
Tesori means "Treasure" and that is what you are likely to find in this store. Many of the items are one off and not available elsewhere in New Zealand.
I spoke with Jan van der Velden.
What do you sell?
Home decorations imported from Europe ranging from glassware, lamps, pictures and furniture. We sell some one off pieces of furniture.
What do you see your shop as providing to the Village?
European flavour in home decoration
How long have you had a shop in the Village?
We have been here 14 years
How do you think the Village differs from other shopping centres?
It is the only true type village atmosphere shopping in Auckland
What do you enjoy most about Mt Eden Village?
The atmosphere in the Village is unique
Where you born in New Zealand?
No. We were both born in Holland and have been living in New Zealand for 15 years.
If you weren not involved with Tesori what would you do?
Relax and enjoy travelling around New Zealand. I would like to have time to go to the places I have never been and explore NZ in depth.
What is your idea of great food?
Seafood. We have beautiful seafood in NZ and I like it served simple and I love to eat outdoors.
What is your favourite meal of the day and why?
Dinner. It is the end of the day and it is not just the food it the company that is important even if it is just the two of us it is just as enjoyable.
What would you call a great holiday?
I don't like to take the tourist trail. I prefer to holiday among local people and soak up local atmosphere whether it is in New Zealand or overseas.
If you had to give up everything and choose one thing (object not person) to keep what would it be?
My books. They are the most important objects in my world.
Tesori - Home Design
409 Mt Eden Rd, Mt EdenPh 630 3890
Email : Tesori@xtra.co.nz
Interview: Maureeen Keene. Photo: Jocelen Janon www.gotya.co.nz
