Nikki | Blockhouse Bay

“I think for me the experience of growing up in the South Island, and being able to get out into the mountains and go skiing. I started skiing when I was seven, at a little club field. It was really rugged.

You used to have to go up in an old Army truck, hair-pin bends, and walk up to the hut. We’d take all our own gear up there, and go skiing with the family, which was absolutely so fun, and it gave me a real sense of love of nature, and wanting to get out into the outdoors, and the appreciation of what we’ve got here. Even though I live in Auckland, I love getting into the garden or into nature. 

I think it’s really valuable for everybody to realise where their food comes from, to deal with stress, to relax, to appreciate the environment. So many different levels. I would say, just start by going for a walk around the block. You know? It does wonders. Get into some fresh air. Go to the beach. I think a lot of Kiwis do, but a lot don’t.

What’s important to me is friendship, honesty, looking at yourself, making yourself a better person, giving back to the community, or being a productive member of the community in whatever way. Whether that’s street-cleaning or being a lawyer, and really not judging people by their exterior presentation, accepting people from all walks of life.”