Most New Zealanders feel closely connected with their heritage. Whether it’s tracing our whakapapa back to the first New Zealanders, or donning backpacks as we fly out to discover the origins of our grandparents from Britain. Unfortunately, I have no Polynesian ancestry to speak of, even though I like to channel my inner Moana with … More Origins and Roots

A famous Maori proverb asks: what is the most important thing in the world? The response is He Tangata: It is people, it is people, it is people. What has been the most important part of our first three weeks in the British Isles? He Tangata. We’ve just enjoyed a beautiful week in western Wales, … More E Tangata

When I tell people in New Zealand that my husband is from Lancashire I’m usually met with a polite but rather blank look. Most kiwis are familiar with London. Some have headed out of town to the Lake District to explore shops filled with Beautrix Potter souvenirs and great outdoor kit, and they’ve usually heard … More Postcode Lancashire

We’re home. When not in Aotearoa we have two homes. One is in the northwest of England, the other is the south-western tip of Cornwall. We’ve landed in the north and have already set about exploring all that it has on offer. We’ve also noticed the decline. We went to Blackpool this week. It’s a … More Beside the Seaside

For weeks they’ve been asking; “Are you bursting with excitement? Counting down the days?” In reality it’s been a race to the finish line, wrapping up our existing life, and preparing for the next chapter. My cue to relax is usually the sight of our bags casually floating away, disappearing behind the heavy curtain at … More Chasing the Finish Line