Natural Living Talk

“If you’re interested in living more consciously, two documentaries I recommend are Stink! and The True Cost. Stink! looks at the hidden chemicals in everyday products and why transparency matters, while The True Cost exposes the real impact of fast fashion on people and the planet. Both offer a powerful reminder to question what we buy and choose more mindfully.”

There’s something incredibly satisfying about lining jars on the pantry shelf—each one a small snapshot of a season, a harvest, or a bargain you couldn’t pass up. Whether you grow your own food or stock up when produce is cheap and abundant, preserving and canning are beautiful, practical skills that help you build a more resilient and healthy home. In our fast-paced world, these old-fashioned skills are becoming relevant again. And the truth is: anyone can learn them. Why Pr

If you’ve been out in the garden lately and spotted clusters of bright red beetles or tiny alligator-shaped larvae, congratulations—you’ve got ladybugs! These little helpers are one of the best organic pest-control allies we can have. I’ve had quite a few appear naturally this season, and I’ve even added to the workforce by purchasing extra ladybug eggs from Bioforce , a fantastic New Zealand company supporting home gardeners and growers. Whether you’re growing roses, veggies

Grow healthier plants, boost your harvests, and create a resilient, chemical-free garden . Companion planting is one of the oldest gardening traditions — pairing certain plants together so they support each other. In New Zealand’s unique climate, where we garden through four seasons, sudden cold snaps, and a huge range of pests (whitefly, aphids, cabbage butterflies, psyllids, slugs, and more), companion planting becomes an incredibly useful tool. Whether you grow in pots, ra

Perfect for small gardens, side yards, patios, and cool NZ climates Not every gardener has a sun-soaked backyard — and that’s perfectly fine. Many edible plants actually prefer cooler conditions and grow just as well (or better!) in partial shade . Whether your garden gets morning light only, dappled shade under trees, or just a few hours of sunshine a day, you can still grow a thriving harvest. Here are 12 easy vegetables (and herbs)  from your list that grow beautifully in

If you’re looking for a crop that’s delicious, reliable, and incredibly fast to grow, radishes are your new best friend. They’re one of the easiest vegetables for beginners, a great way to fill gaps between slow-growing crops, and a surprisingly versatile addition to the kitchen. Whether eaten fresh, pickled, roasted, or tossed into salads, radishes add a crisp, peppery freshness that brightens any meal. Let’s dive into how to grow them, what varieties to try, how to pair the

Perfect for Small Gardens, Raised Beds & New Zealand Backyards Starting a garden shouldn’t feel complicated — especially when you’re just beginning. The trick is to choose crops that are easy to grow, forgiving, space-efficient , and suited to New Zealand’s climate. These 20 favourites tick every box and are ideal for small gardens, raised beds, and even patio-friendly spaces. Home-Grown Vegetables - Are The Best! Growing your own vegetables at home is one of the simplest way

Top benefits of attending a soapmaking workshop: n many workshops, participants craft beautiful soaps rich in texture, color, and natural toppings like botanicals, clays, or herbs. The structured setting allows you to ask questions and receive hands-on guidance, helping you understand each step with confidence. You’ll leave the class not only with your own handmade creations but also with a sense of pride and a new hobby to enjoy and grow.

Learn how to forage for Elderflowers and Elderberry and free downloadable recipes!