A Dunedin native who moved around a lot growing up, she had the choice between Wellington and Christchurch after finishing university. The Southern Alps won out. Years later, she and her husband were house-hunting in Hoon Hay, but priced out of the market, they turned their attention north to Kaiapoi.

“At the time, it just made sense,” Sonia says. “My husband was working here, and it was what we could afford. But now, we’re so glad we landed here. We absolutely love it.”

What started as a practical move has turned into a thriving lifestyle. On their modest urban section, Sonia has created an abundant food-producing garden that now yields over 500 kilograms of fresh produce each year, valued at more than $5,000. Fruit, especially perennials, does most of the heavy lifting. “With the kids and my business, I don’t have heaps of time, so perennials are amazing. They just keep going.”

Her advice for others wanting to grow more of their own food is to keep it simple. “Just start. You’ll probably plant something in the wrong place, but that’s how you learn. Everyone’s garden is different, so don’t wait until you know everything. You’ll figure it out as you go.”

It’s this grounded, practical approach that also fuels her business, Back to the Wild, which promotes natural products and encourages families to spend more time outside, even with little ones in tow. “Success for me looks like getting more families outdoors and helping natural products become mainstream. I’d love for natural sunscreen and the like to be seen as the norm.”

So why is that shift still taking time? “There’s still this belief that natural means not as effective, but that’s just not true. People are often surprised by how much they prefer natural products once they give them a go.”

Sonia dreams of one day buying a block of land, not to work around the clock, but to live simply and enjoy the outdoors as a family. “Success isn’t about building an empire. It’s about having enough to create a lifestyle we love, one that still lets us hike, garden, and just be together.”

That love of the outdoors runs deep. You’ll often find her in the Oxford foothills, a favourite for their easy access and beautiful views. “Mount Grey is a go-to. The views are stunning and you can get up there so easily from Lake Janet. I also love the St James Walkway in Hurunui. It’s long, winding, and you’re just surrounded by mountains. It’s the best kind of reset.”

As for her dream location, somewhere still in Waimakariri feels right. Close to the hills, but practical for family life. “Loburn would be ideal, especially for getting into Rangiora for kids’ activities, but Oxford really pulls at me for the hills.”

Wherever she and her family land next, one thing is clear. Sonia Barrish will be growing good things, in the garden, in her business, and in the hearts of her community.

To learn more about Back to the Wild click here.

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