Kirk McDonald
My Home is My Playground
I’ve lived in North Canterbury for most of my life. I moved here when I was four years old. My wife is also from North Canterbury.
Here, you'll find a collection of personal accounts that offer a unique insight into the way we live, work, and thrive in this beautiful region. From farmers and winemakers to artists and entrepreneurs, our diverse community has so much to share. We hope these stories inspire you to explore the hidden gems of North Canterbury and discover the many opportunities that await you here.
Sector
Bobby Harpur
A Southerner Calling North Canterbury Home
- Hospitality & Tourism
Call it fate or luck of the Irish; Bobby and Ruth Harpur were destined to call Hanmer Springs home.
Crisanna Nel
Nau mai, haere mai!, Deputy Principal - Te Kura o Tuahiwi
- Education
Crisanna Nel has lived all around the globe, and now resides with her whānau in Waikuku Beach where they enjoy the natural environment and welcoming community. She maintains that there’s nowhere in the world like North Canterbury.
Julia Warren
The Perfect Place, Owner of Make It Raw
- Food & Beverage
- Manufacturing
Food manufacturer Julia Warren’s journey has brought her full circle, from a childhood in rural North Canterbury to Auckland, Christchurch then back to North Canterbury to build a business and a life for her young family in Waikuku.
Mary & Ovini Tuinawaivuvu
The Right Place
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
"We work hard but we don’t have to go far at the end of the day, so we have time for our family."
Rosalie Rapana
Finding the Balance, Administration Assistant in the Utilities and Roading Department
- Council
- Professional Services
The Rapana family were unsure about moving to North Canterbury after a lifetime in and around Auckland. But with more affordable house prices, great schools and jobs, and a few other unexpected bonuses, there’s no looking back for this family of five.
Jen Pomeroy
Finding my Place, Owner & Chef at The Modern Mess
- Working From Home
Having moved from the city to a peaceful half-acre section, Jen Pomeroy along with her husband Keeley, two children, two dogs and six chickens is enjoying the spoils of a slower pace of life in Amberley, North Canterbury.
Sam Cottier
Pushing Boundaries, Brewer
- Health Care
Tucked away on a quiet lifestyle block in rural Fernside sits an unassuming shed. Inside, you’ll find a guy called Sam quietly working away, producing some of the most highly rated beers in the country.