Author: Sophie Piearcey

Who would have though it aye? Sophie, the girl who talks endlessly about adventure and mountains sat here writing up a cooking blog. Damn, this lockdown got me good didn’t it? I’m kidding, what you may not know is that I actually have a passion for cooking. Once upon a time I could cook jack shit, diddly squat, not a single healthy, nutritious meal came from my kitchen. That was until I moved away, pulled up my big girl pants, quit eating meat and taught myself how to cook meals that kept my energy levels high, packed full of goodness and taste bloody good.

Now that I have perfected a few of these dishes, tried and tested them on people from the outside, you know the ones that can’t lie to your face to save your feelings, I thought it was time t share with the internet, why? Why the bloody hell not?

Below are my top five, the meals I go to on the regular and right now during New Zealand’s lockdown are pretty damn good dinners for saving a few pennies. I am notorious for cooking for seven million when I pour rice or anything into a pan, so these five meals below actually stretch to seven meals with a nifty little addition the next day.

 

Tofu Buddha bowl

Ahh the Buddha bowl. A healthy, bright, beautiful looking dish that makes eating salad a whole lot more interesting. I love, love, love eating Buddha Bowls at least once a week. I like having cold meals, even in the winter and especially after a day hiking so when your chill time starts you don’t feel heavy with food. This is a great way to flavor and cook tofu, getting essential proteins into your body.

What you will need 

1 block of tofu

½ tin of sweetcorn, black beans, chickpeas

Siracha, Soy sauce, Salt, Pepper, Paprika

Edamame Beans

Spinach

Cherry Tomato

Cucumber

Red Cabbage

Grated Carrot

Red onion

Chopped Pickles

Pumpkin & Sunflower seeds

 

How to make the bowl 

1. Chop your tofu into blocks & fry in a small amount of coconut oil. As the Tofu starts the crisp add in the sweetcorn, black beans and chickpeas, let it cook together.
2. Season the goods. A generous squirt of Soy sauce, Siracha, 1 tsp of paprika with salt and pepper should do the trick. Stir it all up and then turn the temps down and let it simmer in the soy sauce until absorbed.
3. Chop your salad. I’m not here to tell you how much to use or exactly what to use, just make sure you get a variety of crunchy veg options in there. Feel free to sub anything out.
4. Boil up or steam some edamame beans, season with rock salt when cooled.
5. Arrange your chopped salad in the bowl, make it look pretty by keeping everything in its own sections.
6. Pop your crispy tofu and beans on top with a sprinkle of sunflower and pumpkin seeds and bombs away, you got yourself a buddha bowl.

 

Homemade tomato vegetable soup with Croutons

When I first moved out of my parents’ house my Mum taught me a very simple tomato soup recipe. Its healthy, nutritious and simple. Tomato soup is something you should always be able to make from your cupboard with very basic ingredients. The soup below is Robbie’s delicacy and a dish he makes for us every week, all credit to him for this one.

What you will need 

1 tin of crushed tomato’s

Tomato paste

HP Sauce, Salt & pepper, mixed herbs, Chili flakes

1 white onion

4 cloves Garlic

2 x carrots

Handful of mushrooms

1 x tin of kidney beans

Broccoli, spinach or both

3 x pieces of bread, oil, salt, mix herbs

How to make tomato soup 

1. Fry up your chopped onion, garlic carrot and mushrooms. Stick the lid on the pan to let them sweat.
2. Add in your tin of tomato’s, fill the can with water and add this too. This rinses out the can and gives you that extra bit of juice.
3. Chuck in your tomato paste, generous dollop of HP sauce, handful of mixed herds, salt, pepper and chili flakes (depending on how spicy you like) I only had a small sprinkle.
4. Boil some broccoli separate and when soft pop that in the soup pan with the kidney beans and a handful of spinach.
5. Give everything a stir, pop the lid on and turn the temp down. Cook for around 25 mins on a low heat.
6. Chop up three pieces of bread – this is great if you have some bread on its way out. Pour over oil, salt, pepper and mixed herbs before popping in the oven to crisp up.
7. When your croutons are crisp serve up the soup with some on top for added flavor.

 

Coconut Pumpkin curry & Turmeric infused rice

My winter go to is right here. Around Autumn time in New Zealand the price of pumpkins drops so dramatically. I remember one year you could get 5 fully grown, big ass pumpkins for $5! I would even know what to do with all that pumpkin. Many of our dishes from April through the winter included pumpkin but I love it so no complaints in our household. Here is a veg packed Pumpkin curry with Turmeric infused rice.

What you will need 

¼ pumpkin

1 x white Onion

4 x Garlic cloves

6 Mushrooms

1 x Courgette

1 x tin coconut cream

Curry powder, turmeric, cumin

2 cups rice

Veg stock

Turmeric powder

1 tsp paprika

Frozen peas

Pumpkin seeds & chia seeds

Fresh spinach on the side

How to make curry 

1. Chop up your pumpkin into cubes, season with curry powder and pop in the oven to roast.
2. Chop onion, garlic, mushrooms and courgette. Chuck all veggies in the pan and fry up while your pumpkin is roasting. Salt and pepper your veggies as they soften.
3. Add pumpkin to the frying pan once roasted. Add in 1tsp of curry powder, turmeric and cumin, let this all fry up together for a few minutes.
4. Open your coconut cream and pour into the frying pan, mix around. Rinse out the tin halfway and pour into the pan, getting all that stubborn cream from the sides of the can.
5. Lower the temps and let it simmer away as your rice cooks.
6. To make the rice, pour two cups into a saucepan with boiling water. For extra flavor add a veggie stock cube to the mix. As the rice is boiling ass 1 tsp of turmeric and paprika.
7. When the rice is cooked stir in your cooked peas, handful of chia and pumpkin seeds.
8. Serve up with fresh spinach on the side.

If you’re feeling extra naughty, then grab some naan bread or papodoms from the shop.

This dish will easily feed four or be perfect leftovers the next day. To make the dish a little different you can mix the curry and rice to make a Biriyani style dish, chuck in some extra peas and steam up some broccoli for the side. Bam, an extra evening meal.

 

Jackfruit (chicken) pot pie

When Robbie and I first met we would make chicken and mushroom pie ALL the time, we loved it! When I stopped eating meat, I stopped making pie, sad day I know. That was until I found Jackfruit and how versatile this fruit in a can, can be. Jackfruit will taste like whatever you want it to, it’s a perfect pulled pork or shredded chicken alternative SO perfect for chicken pot pie. Pack in some veggies, top with mash and you got your perfect pie.

What you will need 

1 x onion

2 x carrot

2 x garlic

1 x Courgette

6 mushrooms

1 tin of sweetcorn

1 tin of organic jackfruit

½ head of broccoli

Salt & pepper & mixed herbs

3 x potato’s

Cheese sauce

1 cup of grated cheese

Knob of butter

Scoop of flour

1 cup of milk (soy)

How to make the pie 

1. Open your tin of jackfruit and drain the juice. I wash my jackfruit to, sometimes the brine is a little sweet. Pull apart the jackfruit as best you can into an oven dish. Drop of oil, salt, pepper and mixed herbs. Pop in the over to bake / dry it out. Once it starts the crisp a little take it out.
2. Chop all your veggies and add to a frying pan to soften up. Once they are soft and ready add in the sweetcorn, boiled broccoli and jackfruit from the oven. Season with salt and pepper and let the mix sit together on a low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. To make a cheese sauce, add the butter in a saucepan. Once melted pop in the flour and mix up to make a roux. Add in the milk, whisking constantly while adding in the cheese. On a high heat with constant stirring this should start the thicken. You may need to add a tiny bit more flour if it takes ages. Season with salt, pepper and mixed herbs.
4. Boil your chopped potato’s and make a bowl of mash for the topping.
5. Pour the sauce into the veggies and stir around making sure everything is fully coated.
6. Transfer to an oven dish and distribute your mash over the top, flattening with a fork.
7. Pop in the oven on 170 for around 15/20 mins so everything is warmed up and that mash is a little crispy on top.

 

Pumpkin, Lentil & potato soup

I feel like we have a little theme going on here, comforting, hot, tasty winter inspired dishes. Well the temps just dropped in New Zealand, so I’m here for the big soups and crusty bread evenings. Pumpkin soup is one of my all-time faves and you can spice it up however you like. If I’m feeling like a treat I add crumbled feta to the top and some extra croutons or I roast chickpeas in the oven for a crispy topping.

What you will need 

¼ pumpkin

1 x onion

4 x garlic cloves

2 x carrot

Cumin, turmeric, curry powder

Salt & Pepper

3 potato’s (white or sweet)

1 cup of dried red lentils

1L veg stock

Croutons

Pumpkin seeds to top

How to make pumpkin soup 

1. To get the most flavor out of your pumpkin, roast it up with a sprinkle of curry powder.
2. Chop all veggies and fry in a soup pot in coconut oil. When soft add potato’s and roasted pumpkin from the oven
3. Season with 1tsp of Turmeric, cumin and hot curry powder stir so everything is covered and let it cook for a few minutes.
4. Add in 1L of vegetable stock and turn down the heat. Let everything boil together for 15 mins.
5. Take off the lid and with a hand whisk gently whisk the soup, leaving some chucky veg in there. Wisk on and off until you are happy with the consistency. Return to the hob and add in 1 cup of lentils. Let the soup boil the lentils up for a further 15 mins while you cook the croutons.
6. Chop up three pieces of bread – this is great if you have some bread on its way out. Pour over oil, salt, pepper and mixed herbs before popping in the oven to crisp up.
7. When your croutons are crisp serve up the soup with croutons and pumpkin seeds on top for added flavor.

 

Lentil Stew with pumpkin & potato mash

Another cold weather fave right here. I found a similar recipe online and tweaked it for us. I love packing veggies into every meal and here you can really add in whatever you like. The stew works best when left on the stove to bubble and thicken, however keeping a little bit of juice is good.

What you will need 

2 x carrot

1 x white onion

3 x garlic cloves

8 Mushrooms

1 x courgetti

2 tins of brown lentils

2 veg stock cubes

Soy sauce

Salt & Pepper

2 x potato’s

Pumpkin

Kale

Chopped pickles

 

How to make stew 

1. First get all your veggies fried up. So, in a deep frying pan with some coconut oil add in your chopped carrots, white onion, garlic, mushroom and courgette.
2. When soft and cooked, add in the tins of drained lentils. Season the goods with Salt, pepper and a generous squirt of Soy Sauce.
3. Make up some stock. I use two stock cubes and just under 1L of water, around 850ml. Add your stock and let it simmer.
4. Boil your pumpkin and potato’s and mash up with a knob of butter and pepper when ready.
5. Add in a dash of soy or coconut milk to the lentil pan and simmer for an extra five.
6. Chop garlic and kale and fry up until crispy.
7. Serve everything together with some extra chopped pickles on the top. (Robbie hates pickles so he leaves them off but if you’re a fan, I highly recommend)

This is another dish that feeds the fam or your household. For next day ideas we put the remaining stew in an oven tray, boil up some spuds, mash them up and spread on top. Sprinkle some cheese and pepper and pop in the oven to bake. While baking crush some garlic and chopped kale and fry up. Here you have Lentil cottage pie with a side of crispy kale. Delicious!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tokyo is absolutely everything you imagine it to be. Crazy, bright, loud, people and wild. Tokyo is fast, futuristic, weird, and a total mash up of skyscrapers, urban metropolis and culture. Nestled in between towering buildings you will still find shrines, Torii gates and zen. Tokyo 100% lives up to the hype you have heard about. There is no place like it & I already miss the weird and wonderful ways. I thought that the city would be intimidating at first, but it felt friendly. The people smile, they help with your bags and when you look lost, they do their absolute best to help you on your way.

Our flight was great. From Queenstown to Sydney to Tokyo Narita. Here we picked up our JR Rail passes from the airport office and waited for the Narita express to take us through to Shinjuku station. I booked all our hotels on booking.com so I could keep track of our stay’s in the app. Google maps offline will be your best friend in Japan to find your accommodation and also train routes and times. Stepping out of the station was like stepping into a futuristic world. Japan truly comes alive at night and we were hit straight in the face with bursts of neon, bustling streets, and food, oh the food options are plentiful, especially at night. The hotel was just a short ten-minute walk from the station and the perfect base for our first three days in Japan. The rooms are typically Japanese, small, quaint but everything you need. If you have never been to Japan get ready to have your mind blown by the toilets, the options are endless and quite frankly it ruins your toilet time forever as soon as you leave and get back to your boring old porcelain throne.

Before touching down in Japan, I compiled a small itinerary to make sure we both saw exactly what we wanted to see while here. Arriving late at night meant we could quickly grab some food and get up to explore early the next day. Our first morning in Tokyo gave us our first Japanese bakery, this then became our morning routine, sampling baked goods in every town and city. The bakeries here are amazing and a cheap way to fill up before you start your day. What we didn’t realise is that Japan doesn’t wake as early as we do, we found getting up at 7-8 am was great but nothing got going till at least 9 or even 10 am, however, this worked in our favourite at some of the popular ‘photo’ spots around the country.

Day 1 Tokyo

I thought that navigating the trains would be hard, yes, the first few times it takes a little getting used to but in no time you will be a pro at flashing that JR pass and finding your platform like everyone else and if you’re not, just ask someone, it’s that easy.

We spent day one exploring Shibuya, the crazy crossing, Harajuku which I loved and the Meiji shrine & Sake barrel shrine which leads you on a beautiful forest walk right in the middle of the city. We managed to tick off the day one list pretty quickly so after the shrine we made way for the Metropolitan government building. On the 42nd or something floor, there is a free observatory deck, this is free and honestly, we couldn’t believe it. We arrived about an hour before sunset and it was magical. We could see for miles, the city unfolding below, the HUGE park we just walked through and faintly in the distance we could see the mountains.

After falling in love with Tokyo from the sky, we fell in love again, deep into the bottom of a bowl of freshly cooked delicious Ramen. This was also our first time using a vending ticket machine ordering thing. You insert your money, tap some buttons, collect your ticket, hand them to the chef inside and hope that what you think you ordered arrives in front of you. Most of the time it did for us, sometimes I got meat, so I just switched it over to Robbie’s bowl. Honestly, nothing compares to the Ramen dishes in Japan.

Day 2 Tokyo

Drizzly, drizzly day 2 in Tokyo. We packed for this though and will never let a drop of rain spoil our fun. We got up and out pretty early for day 2, wanting to see as much as we possibly could before heading south and exploring more of this crazy land. As well as our bakery missions our mornings also included finding a vending machine. In Japan, vending machines are everywhere and they sell everything. You can even get a hot drink, from a vending machine, mind blown. Every day Robbie sampled a new green tea or coffee combo from a machine. I particularly liked the hot cans of tea, more so I could warm up my hands during the early hours of the morning. Today was our last full day in Tokyo, so we got up early to fit everything in. Once your JR Pass is activated you can use it on some local trains int he big cities. The Yamanote Line is the line you need in Tokyo and it’s completely free to use. All the main stops are on this route, Shinjuku, Yoyogi Park, Shibuya, Harajuku, Ueno Park, and Tokyo Station.

We jumped on the train and took a drizzly walk around Ueno park, this is the place to be in Cherry Blossom season and Autumn, however, our rainy day made it a little dull. I had heard about a pond where you could hire rowing boats so that where we headed. Upon arrival said the pond was full to the brim with bulrush plants and weeds, today was not our day. We sheltered from the rain and planned our next stop. Robbie wanted to visit the old Tokyo town, a historic market town on the outskirts of the city so off we went to explore. Now we are not 100% sure if where we ended up was the place Robbie wanted to be, but it was a pretty cool street none the less. Very quiet, very local and full of cute little shops and some incredible food stalls. This is where we had our first bento box and it was pretty damn good. Yanaka Ginza is also home to some quaint tea shops. We walked into what we thought was someone’s front room. A tiny old Japanese lady made us a cup of tea, we paid her money and left.

After more wandering in the rain we thought to check out Tokyo Station and the Imperial palace, the Emperor lives here, and it felt like we should see this place before we left. It would be like visiting London foe the first time and not dropping in to see where old Lizzie lives. The place is so heavily guarded, and you walk in and out different sides of the palace, no running, no waiting around, just get in and out. It was a very odd experience, but we went, we did it and back on the top of our list was to find more food. During the daytime, we kept our meals light, meaning we didn’t sit down in restaurants or cafes to eat. The selection in the supermarkets for food is bloody good. The sushi is amazing, and there is a great choice for some hot treats too, however not many veggie options. We stuck to a couple of pieces of sushi, a little snack and a hot drink. Our lunch typically costs around $15 a day for both of us.

I felt like we had so much time in Tokyo and pretty much ticked off everything we wanted to see in the first couple of days. We took the afternoon to slowly walk around Shibuya, exploring the back roads and finding some weird as shops to meander in and out of. The famous Shibuya crossing doesn’t get less boring, you can cross it so many times and each time is as crazy as the last. The Starbucks opposite is also an excellent place to get photos and watch the crossing from above. We indulged in many a Christmas themed coffee from Starbucks all over Japan. The Harajuku area was my favourite. The shops are crazy, the people dressed up are brilliant and every third store is a crepe stand and I am all for that. One of my Tokyo must do’s was to find those crazy photo-booths. Nestled under the bustling streets of Harajuku is a photo-booth mecca. We picked the brightest craziest one, smashed loads of buttons, posed three times, hit the screen a few times and the reward… an amazingly bright crazy A5 photo decorated with stickers and cartoons. Well worth the $5 I say.

As night time rolls around in Tokyo so do the people. The streets are packed, the ramen houses have queue down the street and the lights are so bright, leading you down streets missed in the daytime. We spent our last evening contemplating the robot show, a burly Aussie guy confirmed it was not worth the money, so we settled for Mario kart in the arcades and a walking donut tour of Shinjuku.

Mount Fuji was the next destination on our route and having booked our train tickets at the JR office in the daytime left us nothing to do but pack and get some sleep before departing Tokyo, very, very early.

 

Our top things to do in Tokyo

–    Cross the Shibuya Crossing

–    Explore the crazy Harajuku shopping streets

–    Order Ramen from a ticketed machine & enjoy with the locals

–    Play Mario Kart in the arcades

–    Walk through Yoyogi park & find the sake barrel shrine

–    Jump on the Yamanote JR line and explore Tokyo

–    Head up the Metropolitan Government building to the free viewing deck

–    Walk through Ueno park whatever the season

–    Grab supermarket sushi and people watch in the city (Familymart & 7/11 are the best)

–    Find a vending machine and get your hot green tea fix

–    Pay a little visit to Hachiko and google the story after, grab your tissues.

It wasn’t until I stepped foot on Everest Base camp, tears running down my face, hands shaking with cold and my legs shaking with emotion that it hit me. We are here, we made it and we made it together.

Our journey to base camp very nearly didn’t happen. Flying to Lukla from Kathmandu airport was proving difficult at the start of our journey. First, a huge white cloud covered the runway forcing us to stay another night in Kathamndu. Our second attempt was met with rain clouds and thunder, again sending us back to the comfort of a king-size bed, softening the blow but I still longed for a cold tea house in the Himalayas. Our third visit to the airport proved successful, we ran to that plane and snapped the door shut all itching to land in Lukla. On route our fate changed once more, winds picked up and we diverted to a nearby runway. This runway was a short five-minute flight from Lukla but a 2-day walk, thankfully the wind died and we eventually touched down on that ever so scary, short runway.

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• 

The days following were filled with awe, laughter, some tears, cold evenings and blissfully sunny days. Our group, filled with legends made the journey enjoyable, every step of the way. Surrounded by mountains, forests, friends and endless Yak trains helped us get one step closer to our dream.

Everest had always been a dream of mine, a very silent dream but I knew in my lifetime I had to see this mountain. When I moved to New Zeland and my mountain passion was truly born it spurred me on to book this trip. We trained hard, we trained almost every day. We hiked, hill walked, trail walked and swam to train our lungs. I made sure I was at the peak of physical fitness, I needed to complete this hike.

I underestimated how mentally powerful this adventure would be. At times you could be walking for hours alone even in your group. To talk would be wasting energy in that thin mountain air so, powering through in silence was the only way. Every morning you hear tap, tap, tap on your bedroom door as you slowly defrosted your fingers and toes in the sleeping bag. Packing your Sherpa bag in the dark and emerging for breakfast sometimes felt like a little win. I will never, ever take a hot drink or log fire for granted again.

• 

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I remember walking somewhere between Thyangboche and Dingboche alone, with my head down. I was watching my feet take one step after the other on the trail below. I was readjusting my backpack and checking my phone for the time, wondering if we would make it to the monastery to see the monks in time, when a small human crossed my path, then another, then another. All carrying little woven baskets filled with supplies, all barefoot, all wearing baggy little fleeces. They jumped from rock to rock as if playing a game and just like that they disappeared on to a track above our well-trodden route. Their presence made me stop, look up and breathe. I was in their home, looking at their mountains, walking on their trail and I couldn’t be more grateful that they, their family and their country, let us be here.

When I say Everest Base camp was life-changing, I mean it. It will forever be the trip I refer to well, forever I suppose but when I think of my favorite adventure to date. I write and share so much about this trip but I never really seem to hit the nail on the head when trying to explain what it did for me. I don’t think any photograph or word I put down will truly depict what it was like to stand under those giants.

I found peace here, as soon as the wheels touched down in Lukla airport I felt like I had returned home. Trekking to Everest Base Camp changed my world. It changed the way I think, it changed my mindset and it connected me to nature on a level deeper than I ever thought it would. Finding my love for the mountains helped me find myself, it gave me time to grieve and carved out my path. I didn’t know how much this adventure of a lifetime would change my life but trust me, it did.

Thank You Nepal, thank you, Everest. I hope to see you again.

It started with one of my close friends postponing her wedding, then it started with cancellations, then I saw one of my best friends lose all her bookings for the foreseeable future. My heart was breaking for them, for an industry that is built on love. Life as we know it is about to change, it is about to get a whole lot more interesting and our normal will now become a new normal that will feel normal again, it may just take some time. The current climate however pushed me to create a blog, one to share our love and two to share the love about our beautiful friends who need support during this tough time.

You may or may not know that Robbie got down on one knee in my favourite place in the world a year ago, he took my blubbering sobs as a yes and planted the most wonderful, beautiful custom made ring on my finger. It was at this moment that I regretted ever biting my nails. However, joy, adrenaline and a whole lotta love just swooped over us and we skipped down from mountain top like a couple of excited kids. It was 2 pm meaning we had the whole afternoon to bask in our love, alone before all our family and friends in the northern hemisphere woke.

What I didn’t know is that my sneaky (now fiancé) had booked a room at the hermitage hotel in the Mount Cook Village – what a dream. I cried the whole way to the check-in desk, still wearing my hiking boots and my backpack. The beautiful lady on reception upgraded our room and we made our way upstairs. The night consisted of pizza, beer and wine from our camping cups. We called our loved ones and watched the stars illuminate Mount Cook from our balcony.

We knew that we would elope here in New Zealand. It had always been my dream to wear a dress and run into the mountains with Robbie to say our vows so that’s exactly what we will be doing. Our proposed dates are for September 2020, but we will be waiting until it is safe to travel around our country before we set a date in stone.

My approach to wedding planning is pretty simple. Pick the people I like, book them and keep it simple. For now, our wedding is just us two so its important to keep our circle close and personal and support those I love in this industry. I won’t be revealing all our details as I want some things to be a surprise, but for now, these are the people I want you to check out, support and if you are thinking of getting married in Queenstown or New Zealand book up before its too late.

Kate Craig Brown Photography

My beautiful, wonderful, talented best friend Kate Craig-Brown. I remember sitting down in a coffee shop in Queenstown with kate five years ago to discuss some potential blog writing. Little did I know that meeting would blossom into the friendship we have today. I have watched her photography business and career grow from strength to strength and I honestly couldn’t think of anyone else I would want to be stood by our side capturing our love. Kate used us as models years ago to practice for a couples shoot, she perfectly captured our love a few years later and delivered us engagement photographs that we will treasure forever. She is cemented in to be there on our big day, in fact, Kate was the first person I asked when planning.

You can see her wonderfully wild love stories on Instagram here.

https://katecraigbrown.co.nz

Nemo Bridal

Nemo Bridal is the only bridal shop in Queenstown and I have a deep connection with this establishment. I spent two years working here and I also have a very close, personal friendship with the owner, Trudy Munro. Trudy rented a room to us when we first arrived in Queenstown and soon became one of my closest friends, not only is she fabulous but she is a very, very talented lady in the fashion world. Her girls are also incredibly talented and I can’t wait to put my outfit dreams in their hands. Why do I love Nemo so much? At Nemo, the circular economy is at the heart of what they do. They remodel, repair, alter and create bespoke. They care about our planet and are always finding ways to combat the crazy world of fast fashion. I love that our project is a collaborative piece between all that work there, including me as much as possible in this special process. Their Instagram page is a dreamy place for inspo too.

http://www.nemo.co.nz

Celebrant

This was going to be difficult for me. I thought a simple courthouse wedding with a celebration after would be perfect however you can no longer marry at the Queenstown courthouse SO I needed to book a celebrant. Not knowing any celebrants I was stuck on what to do. That was until Trudy, owner of Nemo and a very close friend called me last week. She is now halfway thorugh her celebrant’s certificate meaning that in a few months she can legally marry us in a destination of our choice. I cried happy tears down the phone knowing that our day is now bound even closer with people we love.

Rosie Flowers

Through working at Nemo I quickly got to know local vendors and wedding industry specialists. During a styled photoshoot, I met Rosie Bristed. What a woman. Instantly drawn to her quirky character and demure I knew I needed to keep this girl on my radar. Rosie Flowers is a passion project turned business that I couldn’t be more proud of. Born from the love of the garden and the great outdoors, Rosie creates incredible ethically sourced blooms that quite frankly make me happy dance when I see them. I think I will opt for some kind of dried arrangement so I can use the bouquet twice and I have a big soft spot for Toe Toe (Pampas Grass). I cant wait to see what Rosie makes for me. Check her Instagram here.

https://www.rosieflowers.co.nz

Chaos & Harmony Shoes

Shoes, shoes, shoes. Ever since being a little girl and getting my first pair of docs have I been obsessed with shoes. Unfortunately, I have been banned from wearing doc martens on my wedding day so I will have to opt for something a little classier. Queue, Chaos and Harmony shoes. NZ owned and operated these shoes are DIVINE. I am yet to choose the exact pair(s) I want yet, however, I have my eye on a few for sure. Getting married or just fancy a new pair of boots? Head to the Insta here.

https://chaosandharmonyshoes.com

Stacey Banfield – Make-Up

My girl Stacey. Damn does this girl work freeking hard. I followed Stacey a few years ago on Instagram, did you know my guilty pleasure is watching beauty bloggers unpack PR packages? Stacey does this incredibly well AND then I found out her full-time job is running a tribe of boss lady Make-Up artists. I suck at make-up; I suck at doing anything remotely girly, so I need to lean on those who know what they are doing. Check out Stace’s personal Instagram here and her business Instagram here.

https://www.staceybanfield.com/about

Arrowtown Hair

It is no joke how much I love the ladies at Arrowtown Hair.  They sort my mane, the make me look presentable and damn they do a good job. I am still pretty unsure about what my hair will look like when we get married as I’m not crazy about the up-do or crazy curls. It might just mean that I go and see my gals for a cuppa in the morning, they blow dry my hair and I go home to be a wife. Whatever it be I know I will be booking in here for a wee pamper before the big day.

https://www.arrowtownhair.nz

Debra Fallowfield – Jeweler

If you don’t know who Debra Fallowfield is then please go to this LINK now and check out how incredibly talented this lady is. Again from my time at Nemo during a styled shoot, I had my first encounter with Debra’s work. I showed Robbie how beautiful her work is and he went away and contacted Debra to create a bespoke ring for me. Robbie’s Grandma and Mum both have Blue sapphires in their engagement rings and Robbie wanted to carry on that tradition. My favourite colour is Green and Austalia is where we first met. Back story complete my Sapphire is Green and from Queensland in Australia, are you crying? I am. Every day I look down and see my ring my heart skips a beat. I can’t wait to start designing my wedding ring together. Her dreamy Instagram account is here for you.

https://www.debrafallowfield.com

Stay

Without giving away to much detail to our day we have two locations that we would love to celebrate our love at. Queenstown is our home, its where we have lived for the past 5 years and it’s where our love grew. For us celebrating here and legally marrying surrounded by these mountains is what feels right. Mount Cook is where we got engaged and is our ultimate happy place and go-to for an escape. Below are where we would like to stay during our celebrations in Queenstown and the Mackenzie Country.

The Sherwood

The rooms are simple, cosy and everything I want when staying somewhere that is not my home. Think local artwork, blankets, tea on demand and beautiful views. Plus a bar and restaurant that pick from their garden, source local and endeavor to operate with the community at the forefront of their business. They offer a beautifully authentic experience here at The Sherwood and even if you’re not in the market for somewhere to sleep then drop in for a coffee or a delicious bite to eat.

https://sherwoodqueenstown.nz

High Country Cabin

The high-country cabin of my dreams. Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps on the South Island close to Twizel is where I want to spend our newlywed days. Not only is the cabin in my favourite place in the world it is aesthetically beautiful. Log fire, sheep for neighbors all in the middle of a field away from civilisation. The owners have worked hard to create this little sanctuary for wandering folk and I can’t WAIT to stay here.

https://www.highcountrycabin.co.nz

Alternative Venue – Gather & Gold tipis

Giant Nordic style tipis create the most magical as hell atmosphere for any wedding day, am I right? In my dreams, where all our family and friends jump on a plane and come celebrate our love here in Aotearoa we would 100% be all sat under one of Gather and Gold’s amazing Tipis. The team is based in Queenstown and creates the most beautiful setups for all kinds of events. Check out the magic here.

http://gatherandgoldtipis.co.nz

 

 

Now more than ever locals need to be supporting locals. When times get tough in our lives we turn to those who nurture us during that bad time, right? When you are feeling a little rough and you turn to your hairdresser for support, you chat over your milk being steamed in your local café and you extend your treatment a little for that extra level of comfort at the spa. The humans who are there for us now need us to be there for them as soon as we can be. So, when lockdown is over, here is a list of my absolute faves who deserve a visit from you.

*** I now continue with the original opening paragraph, pre country lockdown***

When moving to or visiting a new town it’s hard to know where to get your zen on. Something I didn’t practice until about a year ago. Working for yourself can be tough, it can be lonely and being your own boss means no one is telling you to check out. There’s no 5 pm finish time or real start time which to some sounds like heaven but can also mean that you work nonstop and forget about what’s important… you!

Your mental and physical wellbeing is so important to your everyday. You will not perform to the best of your ability if you’re not looking after yourself. So, I have created this little list for you. Here are my go-to, saving graces and those I turn to when ya girl needs a break.

 

Arrowtown Hair

It’s no secret how much I love the girls at Arrowtown hair and the sanctuary they have created tucked away in Arrowtown. As soon as you enter you will be at peace, the greenery, natural décor, and instant good vibes come at you like that blast of hot air when stepping off a plane. The girls are talented, friendly and do their absolute best to make you feel at home. I could also harp on all day about how they are doing their bit for our planet – you can read about it here. Arrowtown Hair gals have ditched your standard hair salon foils and opted for a more eco-friendly approach to colouring your hair. They jumped on board with the amazing ‘paper not foil’ group after hearing how terrible that aluminum foil is for our precious Earth. New Zealand salons alone use enough foil in one year to wrap around the earth once, WHAT! that’s crazy right? So now the girls are using this new epic alternative. The paper is recyclable, user-friendly (actually feels nicer than sitting with a full head of foils) and the best part, they are reusable, so after use, they are washed and hung out to dry ready for their next hair goddess to use. Here is a direct link to their website and booking details are below. P.S make sure you get a before and after shot to show your fans.

 

Salt Float Spa

Have you ever floated ina sensory deprivation tank? No? Well, get yourself booked in. Honestly I can’t recommend this enough, one hour, in a pod, no access to you or the outside world – bliss. I will set the scene… you enter the room and have a full shower to get rid of any nasties, you then step into the pod and close the lid (optional but advised for the full effect) Lay down, the salt will automatically push your body to the surface floating you instantly. You then push the button and the music starts for 5 minutes this then stops for 50 minutes and restarts to bring you back up towards the end of the hour. The pod also has sensory lights which again are optional. I like to keep them on for the music and then turn then off to fully relax. Floating frees all sensation of temperature, touch, sight, and sound allowing you to reach ultimate relaxation which helps reset the body’s hormones and metabolic balance. During a float your brain gradually shifts from it’s usual waking beta state to generate alpha, theta or delta waves, the state-of-mind That Buddhist monks try to reach through hours of meditation and years of training. Finish all of the above with a cup of herbal tea in the relaxation room, perfect!

 

House of Beauty Therapy

The new kids on the block (well kinda new) Laura and her team are out in the brand new Queenstown Central part of Frankton, head upstairs above Macpac and you will find the girls creating all kinds of beauty magic. I am about to confess, it took me 28 years to realise the importance of a facial, and now im about to be a wife and shit I thought I would get my act together before our wedding and treat my skin to some much needed TLC. I started a Medik8 facial plan with these gals and I won’t look back. Hydrating, exfoliating and rejuvenating in every session. The team offers massages, nails, brow work and so much more, in fact, all those beautiful things us gals need – they do it here! Pop online and view their full list of treatments and book a few hours away from the madness.

 

Fierce Grace Yoga

Ever done hot yogi? Nah me neither until I went once and thought I could get stuck into this. What is it? Yoga, duh, but in a freeking hot room surrounded by hot sweaty bodies. Sounds delightful right? Read on. It’s a combination of Ashtanga, Iyengar, Power, Classical Hatha, Yin and Bikram yoga, sequenced in ways that adhere to ancient yogic principles as well as the latest cutting-edge fitness and physiotherapy. The studio is brand new and located out in Frankton in the new Queenstown Central area. Fierce Grace Queenstown is the perfect place to rejuvenate and get your ultimate zen on, be it a sweaty one.

 

Yonder

The best café in Queenstown, I said it, I mean it. Im not taking it back. I remember when Yonder opened it was around the time I quit my job and started freelancing. Yonder quick became my haven, my coffee spot, and my work from home ‘office’ The team created freelance table/area and greeted me every day with warm smiles, delicious food, and extra hot chai lattes. It is also the home to some of my favourite friendships, birthed through our mutual love for freelancing. I held my first workshop here and I will always, always tell anyone who will listen to go here for all meals and coffee needs. So, coming to Queenstown for a visit or already live here and need a new hang out? Please, pay my good friends at Yonder a visit.

Be good, support local and help build our bustling town once more.

Myth busting in Japan

Before we set off to Japan I had so many conflicting messages from many. I also read heaps online that if I am being g honest made me a little nervous. The language barrier, no internet and train travel were among a few myths that I feel like now I’ve travelled I can confirm are all nothing to worry about, literally, you have nothing to worry about when embarking on a trip to this magical land.

Below is a list of the myths I am here to bust for you, you know, just to put your mind at rest. Then all you have to worry about is how much Ramen you are going to consume.

No-one speaks English and it’s really hard to communicate. 

FALSE. Big fat myth. The Japanese are some of the kindest people in the world and they will help in whatever way they can on your travels. From the train station staff to the shop workers everyone has a basic grasp of English and if not they will try their hardest to help and understand you.

You can’t connect to wifi and have to rent the wifi pockets.

We had no dramas connecting to WIFI in Japan. Every train station, most trains and all our accommodation had super strong WIFI, even some towns had their own town connection that you could use on the streets. If you are worries however, you can rent a pocket WIFI and hand it back in at the airport before you depart. If you click this link it will show you some options.

There’s so many vegetarian options available everywhere.

Now, this is something I struggled with. I eat seafood so finding a fish alternative was good, plus who doesn’t love a tempura prawn! BUT in terms of vegetarian ramen I struggled. I had to order a normal pork ramen in some places and Robbie ended up with the extra meat. If you really research Vegan and Vegetarian options are available.

The trains are hard to use and navigate

The trains and train stations can be very overwhelming. With so many different lines and everything in Japanese you may struggle on the first day, however after this you will be sweet. Google maps will be your best friend, it even comes with train times and platform numbers sometimes. The train station staff are awesome, if their English is lacking they have a sheet with numbers and are always on hand to help. The JR staff in the offices are awesome too so they can help you. Don’t be afraid to ask, once I asked a train cleaner and he knew exactly how to help! The JR Pass is also your best mate, order one here and save yourself some coin on your transport.

The food is hard to order

Again, this is false. Some restaurants have English menus, some have pictures, some have machines outside with pictures. You order, pay and hand your ticket to the chef, take a seat at the bar and wait for the deliciousness to arrive. Eating in Japan is so exciting, so be prepared for some weird and wonderful dishes to graze your tastebuds.

Your chopstick ability must be tip top

This friends is true. During our trip I think we only sat in one restaurant that had a fork. Every single place we ate had chopsticks and that was it, so if you cant use them, learn before you go. Your other option is to buy yourself a little reusable cutlery set and carry that around with you. I thought I was good until I watched how the Japanese actually do it, so sitting in communal ramen bars was great for me, I could observe and pick up some tips.

Shopping in japan is crazy

TRUE! Shooting in Japan is WILD, but so much fun. The Japanese are so fashion forward and some of their shops are so awesome. If you a bit of a fashionista then save some room in your case, you will want to bring some of the wonderful finds home with you.

Japan is expensive

Now, this is totally dependant on where you are eating and sleeping. We travelled Japan on a budget but still managed to have a double ensuite private room every night. We ate ion the bakery (amazing!) in the morning and managed to have picnic style lunches everyday from the supermarkets. For example breakfast cost us around $15NZD and lunch the same for decent size sushi rolls. Dinner never topped $40NZD for us both and snacks were always under $10. We also found an awesome Sushi train in Harajuku, this is the perfect place to fill up for cheap.

Japan is really busy 

Yes, Japan is VERY, very busy. However the whole country is very regimented. Theres no pushing on the trains or in the streets. The Japanese are an incredibly polite race and even step to the side so you can disembark the trains. Always have your wits about you and make sure you stick to the right side when walking down the street or in stations.

You have to go nude in the Onsen pools 

Yes, yes you do. If visiting an Onsen is your thing then be prepared to go nude. It’s not weird, no one is looking at you and it’s not a new thing. However, if being nude with a bunch of strangers isn’t your thing then seek out a private Onsen. We found a private Onsen for 90 mins and paid $36NZD this way we could be nuddy alone and not feel uncomfortable.

You might get bored just wandering around the cities

YOU WILL NEVER BE BORED IN JAPAN. There is SO much to see, do, eat, smell and touch. From Robot restaurants, busy intersections, bright lights and forests in each city you will find so, so much to fill your days. We crammed so much in to our 12 day itinerary and we could have done more. We spent so much time wandering and looking at the amazing sights, we ate so much food and took time to fully immerse ourselves in everything Japanese.

 

If you are planning a trip to Japan, the JR Pass will be your best friend for travel. It is so easy to use and will save you so much money when travelling from city to city! Click the link here to explore your options!

I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOU! JAPAN IS AMAZING!

Top five moments in Japan 

Japan is insane. This trip was wild and we loved every single second of it. From the super fast Shinkansen trains to wandering through forests on the outskirts of big cities, Japan did not disappoint. There wasn’t a day on our whole trip that I didn’t enjoy, I made sure that we were waking up early every day, excited at the prospect of discovering new places. Although we followed a well-trodden route we are so happy we did, we experienced everything we set out to on our Japan bucket list and had an absolute ball in the process. 12 days just didn’t seem enough… here are some of my favourite moments from our tour around Japan.

Seeing Mount Fuji from across Lake Kawaguchiko

When we arrived at Mount Fuji the mountain was nowhere to be seen. Fresh off the train and all through the evening it rained. It rained so hard that we had to take refuge in a small cafe on the shore of Lake Kawaguchiko and make a run back to the Ryokan before dark. I prayed that night that we would get a clear morning, even just to see the tip would be a dream come true. We woke before dawn and set off across the bridge to a well know photo location. I cried on the route, there he was standing proud, watching over the town as the sun started to rise. Mt Fuji put on the most spectacular show for us that morning.

Watching the Snow Monkeys in their personal Onsen.

Before we left for Japan we watched a show called Wild Japan on Netflix (I highly recommend) they filmed the monkeys in their own onsen high in the mountains, grooming and chilling out together. We embarked on the journey from Nagano and my, oh, my we’re we in our element. Hundreds of monkeys came into view as we rounded the boardwalk through the forest. Some on the rocks, some running from the Alpha male and some hanging out in their very own spa. To top it off it was snowing, the monkeys didn’t have a care in the world for us humans and they happily soaked their troubles away in front of us.

Eating traditional Ramen in Kyoto

Oh the food, don’t get me started on the food. In fact, DO because it’s so god damn delicious that I don’t think I can eat anything Japanese again unless from Japan. Kyoto is well known for its Ramen and man is it good. This was also the first place I found vegetarian Ramen, hallelujah! I had a HUGE bowl of veggie ramen topped with rocket and a soft boiled egg, it was that good we went back twice!

Forest Bathing at the bamboo forest in Kyoto

The Japanese are famous for their meditation, healing and using their surroundings to help them on their life journey. Forest bathing is one of the many past times handed down over the years. Forest bathing is an opportunity for people to take time out, slow down and connect with nature, the Japanese have known for years that spending mindful time in the woods is beneficial for body and soul. Now, don’t worry we didn’t strip nude and bathe together in the woods we just walked slowly, calmly and with the wind through the beautiful Bamboo Forest on the outskirts of Kyoto. Such a peaceful morning and one I won’t forget for a long time.

Crossing the famous Shibuya crossing in Tokyo.

Tokyo, bright lights, big city and 1000’s of people trying to cross the road at the same time. The Shibuya crossing is world-famous, so much so at its busiest, it can see over a million people a day take the route through the crossroads. We joined the masses more than once and crossed toward Shibuya downtown. It was manic but also pretty calm, the Japanese are very polite and they don’t bump or barge you so if you’re wanting to get that perfect photo, then you’re going to have to commit to the masses.

Thank you Jetstar New Zealand for getting us to Japan, we can’t wait to return!

 

If you are thinking about traveling around Japan then click the link here to check out the Japan Rail Pass site. We used our pass multiple times a day & it was THE best way to get around the country. This link is an affiliate link, it costs you nothing to click the link but means I can buy some extra sushi at the weekend!

 

How lucky are we? This country is bloody beautiful, and the Department of Conservation has created an epic network of backcountry huts, tracks, and trails that allow residents and visitors to lose themselves in the epic wilderness of New Zealand’s landscape.

I was itching to hike and itching to get back into a DOC hut. We have access to some huts here in Queenstown, but they are for the seasoned tampers. This was to be Robbie’s first overnight hike so I thought it best we go to a hut that would be on the nicer side. The Great walks are spread over the country, with three down in Fiordland National Park. We had already walked most of the Routeburn and the Milford is a no go unless you book seasons in advance. So, I checked out what the Kepler was doing, luckily for us, Luxmore hut has spare bunks the night we wanted to go, perfect.

We spent the night before in the supermarket buying enough snacks for the 52 people who would be in the hut with us and prepping food like we wouldn’t see civilisation for days. We both have good hiking backpacks so I packed them full of layers, sleeping bags, and food before getting an early night and waking at the crack of dawn. Although the hike to Luxmore hut from the Te Anau control gates was listed at 5 hours one way we still had to drive there. Queenstown to Te Anau is around 2.5 hours depending on how many stops you make to look at baby lambs. You also have to pick up tickets from the DOC office, register your whereabouts and intended return time, just in case you get lost.

We strapped up our boots at the control gates and set off. The first hour steadily wound through the New Zealand bush, a relatively flat track hugging the shore of Lake Te Anau. We stopped for snacks before taking on the uphill slog. I say slog because that’s exactly what it was. Not knowing anything about this hike we went in  blind. The track was uphill for a good 4 hours, you can’t see the top, you can barely see through the tree’s and you will most definitely need a few water breaks. It was a relentless uphill hike, good, rewarding but pretty hard on the legs especially when carrying a backpack.

Finally, the bush line came into sight and we were rewarded with the most beautiful view. The sun was shining, Lake Manapouri sat to the left and Lake Te Anau to the right & man were we high. We took a break and consumed our OSM stash before setting off for the 45-minute walk toward Luxmore hut. The hike was now gradually up and over the ridge, we walked over the boardwalks and toward some epic looking peaks. I was lagging behind, a little busy Insta storying away when I saw Robbie disappear around the corner. Low and behold there was the hut, perfectly nestled into the hill. I felt my legs do a happy dance and quickly kicked off my boots as Robbie boiled the kettle for us.

My oh my, the view from up here is breathtaking, surrounded by mountains and water while sipping on a brew is my idea of heaven. Our warden kindly checked us in and showed us through to the bunk room. We picked a bunk in the bank corner and ended up having the whole top to ourselves. More tea was consumed before listening to the warden’s safety chat. Apparently, the bad weather was en route to the Kepler track. For those who had the intention to walk the whole track would need to leave the hut no later than 7 am, this was to avoid the 100km wind and snow on the way. After that many packed up and went to bed, ready for their early morning start. We, however, went higher than the hut and spent a few hours in the cold shooting until the sun set behind the Fiordland mountains. Cooking dinner was great as we had the whole kitchen to ourselves, however, freeze dry meals are not good, I need to up my game with the overnight food packing.

The night’s sleep was cold, very, very cold. I felt Robbie multiple times move closer to me to sap whatever heat I was holding, that’s fine, I appreciate the penguin tactics. Sunrise came quicker than I thought, even though the night felt so long. I woke before the light due to some cheeky Kea’s tapping away on the roof and around the door of the bunk room. I quickly grabbed my camera and went out to welcome the day. The sun was rising through some cloud in the distance and the warm ray was greatly appreciated after a chilly night. I made a sub-par breakfast – apologies Robbie then packed up and laced up the boots. This was one of the first big hikes my new Lowa Mauria boots had been on, so it was a great test for me to see how they worked, the verdict is very positive. I was even joined by a fellow Lowa fan while sitting out on the deck.

We shot some content for Lowa, a million GoPro couple shots and went on our merry way. We bid farewell to those making their way over the pass and I rejoiced knowing that my day was going to be majority downhill. On route to the bush we spoke about hiking adventures, where we wanted to go and see and multi-day hikes to tick off. We had been floating the idea of potentially going to Nepal to hike to Everest Base Camp. Robbie has previously been to Annapurna Base Camp and I loved listening to all his stories. Everest, the mountain of all mountains was calling my name and over another OSM snack break we decided to cement the plans and book the epic adventure to Nepal.

With an added spring in my step we entered the bush for the four-hour commute back to the car, chatting sporadically about how epic Nepal will be and how much more training I definitely need to do. I was also concentrating on nursing my old lady knee’s the whole descent. When the flat land appeared and the little snippets of Lake Te Anau I knew we were close. However, the long flat track back to the car was pretty boring and long. I would highly suggest that you get the water taxi to and from Broad Bay, that way you get a little bit of adventure and the chance to rest your legs when coming down to the flat.

The car came to view, which also meant our adventure was over. For our first overnight hike together it was pretty special, we made memories, made life plans and survived in the chilly temps of the Fiordland mountains. The post hike pizza was also a big bonus!

If you are thinking of hiking the Kepler Track or any of the great walks in New Zealand head to this site for more info.

If you are hiking the Kepler Track my biggest piece of advice would be to book the Kepler Water taxi through Fiordland Outdoors Co. 

The walk from the control gates to Brod Bay is pretty long and boring & you will need to save your legs for the climb. You can find the link below to book your water taxi transfer. They have options for the multi day hike and also day hiking on the Kepler Track. Hit the link below and get excited that your Kepler adventure is just around the corner. 

Book your Kepler Water Taxi transfer HERE 

I laid awake for hours, well enough time to hear everyone else stirring in the early hours and Kashi making his way up the stairs for his first round of door-knocking wake-up calls. Once the call is made you have half an hour to get up, dressed and packed before heading down for breakfast. Your bags must be fully packed and left outside the bedroom doors as the porters collect these as you eat breakfast and head up the mountain before you.

I underestimated how cold it would be in Phakding, being the first night and the first village from Lukla I thought it would be reasonable, it was cold. So cold that I got up in the night to put an extra layer on but I didn’t care, I was sleeping in the Himalayas and it was only a sign of things to come. I don’t know if it was nerves or excitement that got me out of bed so quick but I was up, packed and ready before Robbie had even rolled out of his sleeping bag. Due to being stuck in Kathmandu for the days previous our group had experienced some excellent bonding time and excited chatter could be heard throughout the corridors of the tea house.

Breakfast consisted of eggs, bread, cinnamon porridge and lemon, ginger tea. I wolfed it down like I wasn’t going to see food again for the rest of the day and finished getting ready. Slowly the group came as one and we set off on our first official day hiking in the Himalayas. Our destination was to be Namche Bazaar, for just one night, as again our delayed departure meant we missed an acclimatization day in the bustling market town of Namche. Before setting off on this adventure I purposefully limited my research of the route. I had barely looked at any images of the trek as I wanted to experience everything first hand. I had no idea what to expect, Robbie was lucky enough to do Annapurna base camp a few years ago so he had a small idea, I was going in blind. Setting off from Phakding with El Chapo in tow, our newly adopted trail doggo, who unfortunately didn’t last long due to the dogs in other villages chasing him away. We crossed bridges and passes and forests. We walked alongside rivers and streams, in and out of the morning sunshine for hours. The first mule train also appeared very early into our day and I was beside myself with excitement.

We were all finding our feet with pace and group dynamic. Kashi did an excellent job of setting a slow and steady pace upfront while the lead guide Shankar brought up the rear. The pace is a lot slower than I expected and rest stops were aplenty, perfect as you never felt in a rush, even though we were a few days behind schedule. We stopped at tea houses and riverside cafes for hot tea and snacks, we played with the local dogs and took off our packs for a moment of rest. Every now and again we would catch a glimpse of our porter crew lead by the sweetest young boy, Deepack.

The first few hours on the trail weaved through towns and tree-lined pathways and it wasn’t long before we reach the famous two-layered swing bridge, famously erected by Sir Edmund Hilary himself.

This is where the hard yards kicked in. Before embarking on the trek I thought every day would be a constant incline, it’s not. They famously call some parts of the route, the Nepali flat, a little bit up, a little bit down, a little bit flat. However, mixed into your day may be uphill. Here was our first taster of that. We walked steadily uphill through the forest for around 3 to 4 hours, we had plenty of breaks and the slight breeze was welcoming. I didn’t believe for a second that I would be walking in a t-shirt and slapping on suncream during our hike.

On route, Robbie filled Shankar in about his Annapurna adventure, also with G Adventures, his guide 6 years ago was called Maski… Shankar stopped us and laughed hysterically, apparently right now, Maski was en route down to Lukla and our paths should cross in the next hour or so. Shanks decided not to tell Maksi and see if he recognized Robbie. About an hour later down came another big group with Maski bringing up the rear, Shankar shook his hand and we stood by. The biggest “I KNOW YOU” came out of Maski’s mouth, it took about two minutes for him to realise where from and the boys had the shortest but sweetest catch up this side of the Himalayas.

Due to our little rendezvous, we had lost the rest of our group so continued with Shanks alone. He stopped us and took us off the track, we bush bashed through to a little clearing and there she was, my first ever sighting of Mount Everest, perfectly framed by the tree’s and standing proud against the bring blue sky. If you know me at all you will know I am an emotional wreck, so here I am crying, trying to take a photo and thanking Shakar for showing her to me a few days earlier than expected.

We soon caught up with our group with an extra spring in my step and ready for the rest of the afternoon. The uphill slog was hard but worth it. Just before 3 pm, we reached Namche Bazaar, the idyllic market town set into the hills. Due to our delayed entry to the trek, we had to shave a few days off the trek, one being the acclimatisation day in Namche. Knowing that we dumped our bags in the tea house and went out exploring until Sunset. We wandered the market stalls and hand-picked items to collect on our way back through.

We found children playing with the prayer wheels and watched them run free around the village. Before retreating for dinner and bed, we found the rest of our group in the Irish Bar – apparently the highest in the world. Dinner consisted of momo’s, potato and veg with a side of garlic soup. I was half expecting another night in the artic freezer however the rooms were a little warmer up here, and with an added luxury of an en suite bathroom!

The night slipped away from us and we bunked down, ready for another amazing day tomorrow.

Mental health is a very important part of my life. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I bravely took the step into securing stability for my personal mental health that I then realised I could use my story to help and educated others.

I have anxiety, and until a few years ago I didn’t know what that meant. I had feelings in my brain and body that I just couldn’t control. After many years of silently battling, I stood up to those demons and sorted them out. I wish I could say that my issues are totally put to bed but sometimes I still get into bed with them and that’s okay. You will see this quote everywhere and it is quite possibly the most important thing you can say or hear when suffering from a mental battle, it’s okay not be okay.

I promise you that, but what isn’t okay is suffering in silence. New Zealand and other countries around the world have a mental health line that you can ring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You have friends and family around you that may not recognise your issues and are confused about how to help, but if you don’t ask you will never get and I guarantee they will welcome you in with open arms.

This year I have been lucky enough to help support the mental health foundation of New Zealand during mental health week to help raise awareness about the importance of you and your precious mind. Mental Health awareness is to be taken seriously, by everyone. Did you know that one in six New Zealand adults have been diagnosed with a common mental disorder at some point in their lives? Did you also know that mental disorders as a group are the third-leading cause of health loss, measuring in illness, disability, and death?

As humans, we tend to idolise happiness, whatever that even means and in the process, we switch off to anything else that may be perceived as abnormal. We fear it, we shut it down, we tell others that it’s just a phase and they will get over it. However, this is wrong, this is not okay and this is the stigma I aim to diminish.

Mental health is not a weakness. I know im not alone. You are not alone and I promise you we are all in this together. Real strength comes from within and it takes a warrior to embrace the complexity of what may be happening.

Let’s support each other and the rest of New Zealand by sharing the below.

Here are the five key messages for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, I hope they resonate with you and help you on your journey. The Te Whare Tapa Wha key messages have been developed by leading Maori health advocate Professor Sir Mason Durie. It describes health as a Wharenui/meeting house with four walls; wairua/spiritual, hinengaro/mental and emotional, tinana/physical and whānau/family and social. Connection with the whenua/land and roots forms the foundation. All four walls should be in balance for wellbeing to be strong.

Whenua

Whenua is your connection to the land. A source of life, nourishment, and wellbeing for everyone. Whenua can be your place of belonging – that means the spaces where you feel comfortable, safe and able to be yourself.

Hinengaro

Hinengaro is your mind, heart, conscience, thoughts, and feelings. It’s about how you feel, as well as how you communicate and think.

Tinana

Tinana is about how your body grows, feels and moves and how you care for it. Nourishing and strengthening your physical wellbeing can help you to cope with the ups and downs of life.

Whānau

Whānau is about how who makes you feel you belong, who you care about and who you share your life with. Whānau can be extended relationships – not just your immediate relatives. As a core source of strength, support, security and identity, whānau plays a central role in your wellbeing.

Wairua

Wairua explores your relationship with the environment, people and heritage in the past, present, and future. For some, wairua is the capacity for faith or religious beliefs. Others may describe wairua as an internal connection to the universe.

It’s scary when you look at statistics surrounding mental health. Mental disorders affect 1 in 4 people. 70% of young people don’t receive the proper support they need and people will steer clear of help because of stigma and discrimination. We have become accepting of anything in this world breaking down apart from our brains and that is ignorance. We live in a world that doesn’t understand therefore they discriminate. We need to educate ourselves to help others, don’t join the ignorant statistic. Be the change this world needs, be what the people of this world need.

I have said it before and I will shout it from the roof, my door is open, my kettle is pretty much always on and I know how to make a good brew, don’t suffer in silence, I will always be here for you.

https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz