Ponsonby News: One Minute with Sarita Blankenburg

By David Hartnell.

Sarita Blankenburg founded her company ‘Ayurveda New Zealand’ 14 years ago after completing her studies in Ayurvedic medicine and yoga therapy. Ayurveda in Sanskrit means ‘the science of life’ and is the world’s oldest medical system originated in India. It has been practised for over 5000 years and its holistic principles are still valid today.

How did your company start?

In a little studio from our home in Ponsonby and it has been growing over the years into an Ayurveda clinic based in Summerfield Villas on Richmond Road.

We are offering Ayurvedic consultations, a whole range of Ayurvedic treatments: Panchakarma – a deep cleansing and purification procedure, yoga therapy, educational workshops and my own 'Sattva Botanicals’ Ayurvedic product range.

Together with my team, I also run Ayurveda Cleanse Retreats twice a year at Parohe on Kawau Island.

What do you like about Ponsonby?

I love the diversity of my hood, having a variety of yoga studios on my doorstep, healthy cafes and delicious restaurants, all the little shops and my local hairdresser at Kokomo. The street festivals and market days are fun and make me feel I am back in Europe where I grew up.

How did you survive the pandemic?

My husband and I got married in March 2020, literally two weeks before the first lockdown. We had all our family and friends from NZ and overseas at our wedding which we were very grateful for considering what ensued. Home schooling our children was a particular challenge! During the second lockdown, I had flashbacks to my upbringing in East Germany, kept behind the Berlin Wall and not able to leave the country. I struggled with that idea and did not like the feeling of being so constrained. Now I appreciate getting out and about and connecting with people so much more.

What was your childhood like?

I was born in Halle, East Germany and spent the first 17 years of my life behind the Berlin Wall, which might sound a bit grim but, thinking back, my childhood was actually quite idyllic. I grew up in a Baroque castle which was the local school and since both my parents were teachers, our family lived at the top floor of an entire castle wing. A huge park surrounded the castle with beautiful plants, ponds and, consequently, I spent lots of my childhood in nature, climbing trees, biking through the park, or ice skating on the ponds.

Sometimes I wish my kids would have a simple upbringing like mine away from modern temptations of screens, online gaming or social media.

I will die happy if?

I continue living my life to the fullest every day and don’t delay any good things.

If you could star in a movie, who you like to star alongside?

Cate Blanchett – it would be an extraordinary opportunity for so many reasons. Her talent, versatility and dedication to her craft are truly inspiring.

Which TV series would you never miss?

I don't watch TV. I'd rather read a good book with my kids or snuggled up under a blanket indulging in my novel.

Your dream holiday?

I love travelling and ever since the Berlin Wall came down, I have had itchy feet. One of the most fascinating places I have visited, and would love to return to with my family, is Africa. Taking our kids on a safari and climbing up Kilimanjaro would be my dream.

Most Kiwi thing about you?

Walking barefoot, relaxing my German punctuality and softening my very direct approach a bit.

What was the last thing you bought that you regretted?

At Christmas we welcomed our new border collie puppy Tui into our family and we absolutely adore her. However, when Tui arrived and started to chew our shoes, cushions, outdoor furniture and rugs to bits, it was quite overwhelming. She needed constant attention, almost like having a newborn baby, so we all had some doubts. Tui is now six months old and learning quickly, so of course we would not send her back but once in a while when she has her sass attacks, the regrets come back!

If you were reincarnated, what would you be?

A dolphin to frolic in the waves and be in a pod with other happy creatures.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction and why?

Hermione Granger – J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Hermione is known for her intelligence, bravery and loyalty to her friends. She's a role model for many women, especially those who value knowledge and determination.