Journal

Paradise Trust, nestled deep in the backcountry, is where I escape once a year for ten solid days of reconnection to the simple life. The beauty of the backcountry in winter is nothing short of breathtaking. Sacred mountains seem to call your name, whispering messages that only you can here. A language that vibrates at a level that rattles your bones and gravitates you towards your centre. The Ruru, with their ancient wisdom, call out from the beech forest as if you’re eavesdropping on a conversation not meant for you, yet deeply intended for you all the same.

This winter, I experienced a few moments that were nothing short of magical. One morning, I was greeted by a fiery sunrise, the sky painted in pink, orange and golden hues. The previous year, I had witnessed a similar sunrise but struggled with my camera settings, resulting in blurry images. I was disappointed but still revelled in the experience of being witness to such a magnificent sunrise in this valley. It's not often you get colourful mornings like this in this place. This time, when I looked out the window well before dawn and noticed hints of red in the sky I jumped straight out of bed and grabbed my gear. The jandals I slippped on may not have been the greatest choice of footwear but I made it to my lookout spot without falling head over feet. I spent time connecting with the landscape, listening to the mountains and the sound of the Dart river flowing in front of the rolling hills that stood before me. Grateful for this moment in time, I looked up at the sky and said Thank You. This time, I got it right. It felt like a second chance from the universe, a sign to keep going—reminding me that there will always be another opportunity to capture life’s beauty. 


Another unforgettable moment was witnessing my first sun halo—a full circle of light around the sun. It appeared funnily enough just after I had asked the universe for a sign that I was on the right path. I had been grappling with challenges in my life—financial strains, emotional struggles, and uncertainty about my direction. I was staring into the reflective waters of one of the ponds at Paradise and noticed a shaft of colour, the makings of a rainbow. As I followed this up with my camera I realised it wrapped around the sun completely. The sun halo felt like a powerful affirmation, encouraging me to keep pursuing my passions but with greater intention, setting up systems to support my journey more effectively and sustainably.


My days were filled with wild adventures in the lakes and rivers, cold water immersions that left me feeling refreshed, revived, and so alive. Walking barefoot in the winter—a rare joy in this place—only deepened my connection to the land. I spent seven days on my own, just me and my pups, Luna and Saaschi. It was a girl’s retreat of sorts, solo adventuring into the wilderness, reflecting on life’s choices, both good and uncertain, yet holding onto a vision that I know in my heart will come to fruition.

Dolans Hut, my home during these days, is like a portal to a simpler time. With no wifi and no cell reception, the distractions of the modern world fade away, replaced by the echoes of old mining days at the nearby scheelite mine. I often wonder what life was like back then—cold winters spent in dark places, warmed by the fire and the company of those who shared the struggle. Today, the huts stand as a relics, offering a chance to strip back the layers of modern life and reconnect with the rawness of humanity intertwined with nature.

The last few days of the trip, my partner Pierre joined us and everything felt complete. Together, we ventured further into the wild, sharing the magic of this sacred place. Our days were filled with explorations—navigating the mist-covered trails, marvelling at the snow-dusted peaks, and enjoying quiet moments by the lake & streams. The bond we share always seems to become more intimate as we are surrounded by the stillness of nature. We find joy in the simple pleasures of life—cooking meals together in the outdoor kitchen, chopping wood for the fire, getting the fire bath ready, soaking in the bath as the stars dart across the sky shifting and shaping into various constellations, and laughing as Saaschi does her zoomies around Luna through the tall grass. Each moment is a reminder of the beauty of connection, not just with the land, but with each other. Our time here is always a gift, a chance to reset and reconnect, not just with ourselves, but with the love we share.

One morning the fog rolled in like a blanket across the landscape. Snowbows over the hut and in various places along our walk made me smile in wonder. As we ventured through the property, only the path ahead of us was clear for about 20 meters, illuminated by the sun breaking through the fog. Emerging on the other side to see blue skies and the layer of fog retreating to the left the polarity of life sometimes. Something to ponder, but I decided to photograph it instead. 

Nature always provides endless opportunities for photography, and this trip was no different. I was captivated by the variety of mushrooms, particularly the turkey tails at different stages of their cycle—imagining their networks of mycelium pulsing beneath our footsteps on the earth. Luna and Saaschi were living their best lives, exploring the wilderness with unbridled joy. Our annual family photo, with a rainbow behind us and striking cloud formations, captured a moment of pure happiness and contentment and mild frustration trying to get the dogs looking in one place. 


Something I was really looking forward to this year was connecting with Lucy, Paradise Trust's new resident pet donkey. Meeting her was a special moment, as part of my dream is to one day have a couple of donkeys on our forever property, alongside our gardens and retreat space. Lucy, an old girl in her late 30s, has a beautiful spirit. I brought some celery from my garden to share with her, and she seemed very appreciative. Simple joys that make my heart full when I think about even now. It's the little things.


This retreat nourishes my soul in ways that are hard to describe. It’s a reset button, a reminder of how little I truly need to be happy. A gentle nudge to self that I don't need to overthink, over complicate and strain the situation. Redefining what my true needs & wants are and recognising what I can and can't live without. There’s a part of me that wishes I could stay forever, wrapped in the embrace of this land, living in tune with its rhythms. But for now, ten days is our limit—a brief but meaningful sojourn into the heart of simplicity. Perhaps next time, we’ll stay a little longer.

Echoes of the Wild

Imagine stepping into a world where time slows down and nature whispers secrets only you can hear. This enchanting place exists and is called Te Aka Treehouse, a hidden paradise nestled on the wild west coast of Te Waipounamu / New Zealand’s South Island. As my partner & I wandered through ancient trees and over moss-covered stones, & traversing spring fed creeks, we were enveloped by a profound sense of wonder feeling as if we were a part of the mighty canopy and beginning to understand the language of this land. An inkling of overwhelming joy and child-like awe took over and we became tomb raiders for a moment in time. What would be around the next corner we wondered?


In our fast-paced society and amid a current worldwide recession, the concept of slow travel and slow tourism is a radical movement that supports local communities and businesses, helping us all thrive. Rather than rushing from one destination to another, slow travel encourages spending more time truly connecting with a place, its people, and its stories. In New Zealand, I have noticed that many tourists/visitors attempt to cover vast sections of our country in just one week or a few days even, missing the depth and richness that come from lingering a little longer. In my humble opinion, Te Tai Poutini / The West Coast deserves a week at the very least to be fully appreciated on its own. The same can be said about many of the beautiful locations across Aotearoa.


Slow travel allows us to unwind, giving our nervous systems a chance to settle. By immersing ourselves in a single location, we can appreciate the nuances of its culture, the rhythm of its natural environment, and the stories that make it unique. Te Aka Treehouse is the perfect embodiment of this philosophy, offering a sanctuary where you can slow down and reconnect to the history of this place and experience the stillness to discover your relationship to self & the ones you love.


From the moment you arrive at Te Aka Treehouse, a sense of peace and tranquility envelops you. Here, in this serene haven, the rush of everyday life fades away, replaced by the gentle vibration of nature. Slow travel is not just a trend but a movement that invites us to savour each moment and deeply appreciate our surroundings, beginning to develop a more meaningful relationship to the places we find ourselves in.

As a photographer creating content for such an epic place, I was mesmerised by the intricate textures and vibrant hues of the moss-covered walls, and the dappled light filtering through the canopy. Each photo I took felt like a glimpse into a dream, capturing the essence of what it feels like to live among the trees if only for a moment in time. Being in the treehouse itself, you are surrounded by birdsong & beautiful hues of green and golden light. Treating yourself to the photosynthesis of life and bathing in this process on a cellular level.


This place, it’s about immersion—connecting profoundly with the land and its stories. Being amidst towering trees, serenaded by birdsong and intoxicated by the earthen scent of the forest, and becoming your own adventurous explorer into caverns unknown. Glow worms at every junction, the writing on the wall of past visitors and the history these walls  embody within their dirt and stone. Old days of mining in the harsh winters, the excitement and adrenaline of the gold rush and the remembrance of mighty forests that are ready to reclaim this place. How might we exist together in unity? As you spend time here, you begin to carve out your own answers to these questions and curiously create new ones.

Te Aka Treehouse is not merely a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary for the soul, a complete reset for the mind, body & spirit. An invitation to cultivate questions & inspire curiosity in a world that often demands speed and productivity.  I truly believe it’s essential to find spaces where we can slow down, reconnect with nature, and rediscover our true self, redefining who we are and exploring a more meaningful connection to life itself. This retreat offers that respite, a place where dreams come alive and the inner child is set free.


So, when was the last time you truly connected with nature? When did you last allow yourself to explore your dreams and be present in the moment? When did you last indulge in an experience that nourished your body, mind, and spirit? When was the last time you adventured onto paths unknown & squeezed into caverns that held excitement at every turn? Have you had a cold dip in a spring fed pool surrounded by a living wall that is no doubt the home of the forest faie themselves? 

Well, I think it’s time to rekindle that sense of wonder and adventure my friends. Book your stay at Te Aka Treehouse and embrace the magic of slow travel, where being present and connected with nature is the ultimate luxury. Let your imagination roam free and your spirit soar in this paradise where time stands still and the beauty of the natural world embraces you.

I promise that your soul will thank you. I know mine sure did! I'm already looking forward to returning to this magical place. Maybe I'll see you there x

The Beauty of Slow Travel

hosted our final Rewild expedition of the season, and it was definitely one for the books! Our home for the weekend was the stunning 

 overlooking the lake & expansive mountain landscapes. Nestled under a bed of stars & a blanket of Milky Way at night. Basking in radiant sunshine & bluebird skies during the day. There is a poignant magic that reverberates from this place, it seeps into your skin when you dip into the cold glacial waters and it permeates your senses as you walk through the forests and drift down the river, becoming one with the flow of life that is within & around you.

Facilitating these workshop weekends can be hard work, not in the sense that the work itself is hard. It’s the preparation, the organising, the stress of filling the spots to meet required numbers to cover costs, dealing with last minute cancellations, and wondering where those funds are going to come from. It’s the constant marketing & advertising, reaching your perfect audience, the ones who need your offering the most. It often feels strange having to be so “on” all the time, being so connected to the virtual world when really what we are teaching about is found outside of this metaverse. We guide you to find your wild, because we all have this wildness and it often gets lost in the clouds of conditioning from various avenues of our lives.


It is on these weekends, that we as a team, remember the 

 behind our vision. Our cup gets filled as much as our participants’ and we get to share our stories, our knowledge, our tools, and practices. We get to do these things in some of the most wild & remote locations in the South Island of New Zealand and that’s a huge draw card because this is where the true healing occurs. I’m not saying that nature heals us necessarily, but that we find in nature the parts of us that need to be healed within. Nature has messages for us if we are still enough to engage in that conversation. We carve this time into our busy schedules and we commit to showing up for ourselves for these 3 or 4 days, challenging our own status quo.


It is our mission as teachers and guides, to walk with you as you navigate your own self discovery. You become the cartographer of your own map, the treasure trove of your soul. I often describe our Rewild Retreats as a blend of Outward Bound with a creative art therapy & personal development twist. This particular retreat found us embracing the elements of the wild to the fullest. We traversed ancient forests, crossed glacial rivers & meandered our way through gorges to find the perfect swimming hole for those that dared brave immerse themselves into the icy waters. We cheered & supported each other, teetered the edges of our boundaries and realised what we were capable of not only as a team but as individuals.


We continued this exploration and dived into the seat of our souls, rediscovering & acknowledging parts of us that needed noticing. We felt the resistance, we embraced vulnerability and we shared our experiences. A workshop that really helped us co-create from the heart and allow the ego to take a rest. The challenges faced during these adventures, workshops, meditations, asanas & moments of self exploration were met with kindness, grace and determination, as we ventured into the unknown together. 

One of the most memorable moments together was witnessing the magic of the Aurora display in the night sky. The women stood in awe, bathed in the ethereal glow of a jaw dropping Southern Lightshow, their faces alight with wonder and joy. It was a moment of pure connection to the cosmos and to each other. A realisation of the essence of the magic of life that surrounds us. That veil between worlds, as if we were able to peek through to the next dimension. As one of our facilitator’s, Kay, would say, “We have all been upgraded!” I mean, after that light show, how could you not agree with her?!


For our last adventure together, the stunning backdrop of the Aspiring mountains and Matukituki river served as the perfect setting for our exploration of self-confidence, processing emotions and personal development. The spirit of the Matukituki river flowed through us and we worked as a team to navigate the small rapids and gentle flows that each turn presented us with. Moments of silence and meditation, laughter & pure joy, and tears that flowed served as vessels for change within each and every one of us. I don’t think any of us are the same women who started that journey, we came out of that river forever changed in a way that is hard to describe. For me, I feel as if a piece of me flows with the river and the river flows through me.


I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a transformative experience, and to witness the growth and empowerment of these incredible women. Their journey serves as a reminder of the power of connection, self-discovery, and a reminder that it’s never too late to chase our dreams or to reach for the stars. I am honoured to hold space for these inspiring souls & to share the knowledge and the tools that I have in my kete. 

May your waters be calm in the storms and may your heart know which way to guide you.

For now & yet again, we finish this season with an incredible Rewild adventure. Thank you to everyone who came to Rewild with us this season! We’ll see you again in November 2024!

Upcoming Events Brought to you by The Rewild Legacy Charitable Trust

Rewild Women's Retreat 2.0: Exploring Lake Hawea & Makarora

It has taken me over a week to gather my thoughts & integrate the experience of hosting a retreat & immersing myself in the beauty of Waitata Bay, Pelorus Sound. The intensity of this time of year for my business and the buildup of being semi off-grid for nearly 11 days can create a mountain of to-dos to come home to. And so it was, blissed out and feeling like a new woman I arrived back to my office in Dunedin with a serious sense of urgency behind my workload and assimilated into position. Knocking out the to do list, catching up on emails/admin, editing collections of photo sessions, meeting with clients, creating content for the final touches of a new website (coming soon... eeeeep!), prepping for this week's Rewild Women's Retreat in The Catlins, and managing to create tiny pockets of space for time with myself & my loved ones.

On the edge of burnout but resourcing from my tool kit of practices and new found creative prompts, I now find myself in Curio Bay immersing myself in yet another body of water and frolicking with Hectors dolphins and my other spirit animal, Shaye Simpson. 🤣 🐬 This morning's swim with these magical creatures has reinvigorated my mindset and taken me back to the state of being I held for myself in Waitata Bay a couple of weeks ago for the 3 day creative retreat I hosted with Jane Pike called Coming To Your Senses. I feel compelled to speak to this experience as not only a facilitator but also a participant.

Let me start with the element of water. The majority of the makeup of our body consists of water and the energy that water harnesses is something that we still do not completely understand. Brilliant minds the likes of Viktor Schauberger (Living Energies of Water)have spent their lifetime dedicated to this specific research and without that sort of mind for it, I know in the marrow of my bones that water is a source of life & a key to my own transformation and healing. This is why I have followed the oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams in all of my travels and why I choose to share this healing energy with many of my clients, friends and family. I speak the language of water and understand its messages. I feel sometimes like a conduit between others and their reclamation of their innate connection with this ethereal element.

Our pilgrimage to the Pelorus Sound was one that unexpectedly moved me in ways I've never felt before. I believe there were a myriad of reasons for this... The collective unknown creativity, shared stories and beliefs that resided within our group of wanderers, mystics, powerful wāhine, and inspiring souls. The messages we received from our ancestors, from nature, from each other and from the embrace of the beautiful hues of blue from sky to sea. Creative writing prompts that stirred the soul into a stream of consciousness not tapped into for years, maybe lifetimes... The steady vibrational orchestra of the cicadas all around us, and the purity of the moments of silence just before dawn as we conversed with Venus & the moon before the sun made its presence known.

As women, we have traditionally been the storytellers of our culture, society, & communities. It is in our human nature to pass down traditions orally and to express ourselves through the written word & through language. To feel a disconnect from this way of being can feel isolating and I believe we begin to lose touch with the magic of being alive, of being present & still enough to receive the messages that are meant for us. This retreat was a culmination of practices to revive this part of us, to reconnect with the storyteller within. And that we did, oh so beautifully. We each shared stories of heartbreak, of turmoil, of joy, of laughter, of love, of struggle and our own tales of radical liberation & freedom. We redefined our place in this world and our relationship within it on our own terms. We arrived at a sense of perspective that shook the narrative we arrived with and questioned the beliefs that felt true. We were so present in the moment we were able to slow the hands of time, savouring each delicious moment as if there was no other place to be in this world but right here and right now. A chance to create space to dedicate to the art of the story, to weave this through our everyday.

When I speak of the present, my mind settles into the soil of the forest floor. I smell the earthy goodness of the wildness around me and I admire the beauty of the tall pungas, noticing the light dappled through the textures of the fern fronds. The water is not the only one who speaks to us. The constant composting of life that once was and the rebirth of what will be is a cycle ever present as you walk along the tracks above Waitata Bay. Peaking through the trees, you see the clouds caressing the mountains across the Sound and you think of the stories this land carries in its rich history. I feel small & insignificant yet completely connected to this wild & untamed place. To live here is to know that you are at the mercy of the elements of nature. This is the contract you sign when you commit to this adventure. As my friend Jane quoted from a book she had recently read on this trip, "The wild does not owe you cosy." We spend so much of our lives in search of convenience, comfort and security. But nature is not always this. And that is okay. So it is. So are we.

I'll finish this journal entry with a vulnerable but true share of the Stories I Arrived with. This was one of the many creative writing prompts that we worked on as a group and shared with each other. Each of our writings I think surprised us in a way, words flowing from a place deep within.

"The stories that course through my veins and emerge from the cells of my body are tales of a lost art. The artist that was never recognised for fear of shame. The explorer that became lost in the abyss of a fog of uncertainty, doubt, and degradation. A tale of loves unrequited and souls betrothed to darkness.


But it is not as morbid as it seems because these stories have a thread of light that has been traveling through the depths unseen. Threads of gold that piece together the brokenness of time lost and voices never heard. The story now is bursting at the seams and cannot be contained even if I tried. The veil of oppression and the remembrance of the stars lives within me. It is the balance of many worlds that forms the grit of my bones. The wildness calls to me and I can no longer let guilt stand in my way. The messages are clear as I stumble on the words to tell these stories that flow through me.


I come from worlds created for me. Boxes that were meant to contain & assimilate. I now am ready to build the foundations of the world I can be free in, a world where you can be free too. And what is free? Beauty in the smallest of moments and tendrils of hope. A longing to capture the sun as it rises over the water or to liaise with the stars as they fade away into the dusty blue skies of the dawn...."

That freedom that we seek, it is within us. The art of stillness, of noticing, of creating space for tiny beautiful things is our journey to get there. If this moved you, if these words resonate... Maybe just maybe, it might be time for you to join us. We'll be back in Waitata Bay February 2025. See you there, I truly can't wait.

Photography by
KASSANDRA LYNNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Coming to Your Senses - A Sensory Journey of Connecting to the Soul

As a photographer, I am fortunate enough to spend my days capturing the beauty of this magical place. The rugged landscapes, the mesmerizing coastline, and the untouched wilderness provide an endless array of subjects for my lens. I also host Rewild Portrait Experience weekends here where I work closely with women & couples who embark on a journey of self discovery & exploration through adventurous photo sessions. But it's not just the photography that keeps me coming back to this hidden gem; it's the experience of staying in such a dreamy location. This place is quite literally my spirit animal.

When I first set foot on the property, I couldn't believe my eyes. A sprawling 600 hectares of private farm land, adorned with native forest and lined with epic coastlines and cliffs. It's a place that feels like another world when you're there.

But it's not just the breathtaking natural beauty that sets this place apart. It's the attention to detail and the rustic charm of the cabin itself. Designed after a traditional musterers hut, the cabin exudes a sense of history and authenticity. You can almost imagine the hardy mustering men and women who once called this place home, tending to their flocks and living off the land.

Stepping onto the deck, you're greeted with rocking chairs that beckon you to sit and take in the ever-shifting landscape. It's a place where time seems to stand still, where you can watch the sun rise and set in a dazzling display of colors. And if you're lucky enough to be here at the right time, you might even witness the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Australis dancing across the night sky.

But the rustic luxury doesn't end with the cabin itself. Venture down to the private beach, and you'll find a sanctuary all to yourself. The soft sand between your toes, the gentle crash of the waves, and the sense of peace that washes over you - it's a feeling that is truly incomparable.

And if you're a nature lover like me, you'll be in paradise. The bird life here is simply incredible, with the New Zealand Falcons, Hawks, Tui, and Kereru adding a vibrant splash of color to the landscape. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a graceful fallow deer grazing in the distance, its majestic presence adding to the magic of the place.

It's not just the beauty of the surroundings that makes this location so special; it's the range of experiences on offer. As a photographer, I invite you to join me for a Rewild Portrait Experience. Imagine being able to capture this dreamlike setting as the backdrop for your most treasured memories. Whether you choose to stay in the cabin or have your shoot there, I guarantee that the result will be nothing short of breathtaking.

So whether you're searching for a romantic escape, an elopement venue, or simply the best accommodation in New Zealand, look no further than the Catlins Coastal Hideaway in the Catlins. Here, rustic luxury, untouched nature, and unforgettable experiences combine to create a truly magical destination. Book your stay today and let your wildest dreams come true.

If you'd like to book accomodation, follow the link! If you'd like to book in a portrait experience at this dreamy spot, get in touch and we'll bring your vision to life in one of the most incredible places in NZ.

Rustic Luxury & Landscapes in The Catlins

Have you ever had someone check your ego at the door? Or perhaps you've called someone else out in the same way? 

We often tend to consider the ego in a negative connotation, and I used to agree with this sentiment. However, during a recent discussion in a yin yoga training, my perspective on the ego shifted. In the realm of personal development and spiritual practices, there seems to be a prevalent idea that the ego is something to transcend or even eliminate entirely. Concepts like ego death and transcending the ego have gained popularity, suggesting that a life free from ego is the path to enlightenment or true self-realization. However, what if we looked at the ego in a different light? What if, instead of trying to get rid of it, we learn to befriend it? In this post, we will explore the idea of embracing the ego as an ally rather than an enemy and how it can lead to personal growth and self-awareness.🌟🤝

To befriend the ego, we must first understand what it represents. The ego is the part of our psyche that identifies with our individuality, separates us from others, and shapes our self-image. It is the "I, Me, & My" that we connect with and see ourselves as. It is essentially our story, our beliefs, and how we show up in the world. While an over-attachment and inflation of the ego can lead to negative behaviors and attitudes, a healthy & balanced ego serves an important function in our lives. It is an essential part of our humanity and an integral aspect of being present in our collective human experience, showing us that while we are separate, we are also a part of the whole.🌍❤️

Acknowledging the Positive Aspects of the Ego

Rather than dismissing the ego as an obstacle to overcome, we should recognize the positive aspects it brings to our lives. When nurtured and allowed to grow, the ego provides a sense of identity, self-worth, and personal boundaries. These boundaries allow us to navigate the story of our lives and change trajectory when needed. The ego drives us to achieve goals, assert ourselves, and navigate social interactions. By acknowledging these positive qualities, we can start to see the ego as a necessary and integral part of our being, especially in the earlier stages of our lives.🌱💪

Embracing Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

Befriending the ego means developing a healthy relationship with it. Instead of suppressing or ignoring its presence, we can use it as a tool for self-awareness and personal growth. The ego can serve as our accountability partner, constantly questioning our thoughts, actions, and motivations. It can help us pause and reflect before reacting impulsively, asking ourselves if our choices align with our values and if there's a better way to handle situations. The key here is to maintain a healthy balance, not allowing for co-dependency or unhealthy attachments to our story and beliefs. Can we maintain awareness and also allow ourselves to become a witness to how we move about in our world? A good friend doesn't hold us back but supports and inspires us to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be. This is not only good for the individual but also for our communities and environments that we live in.🧘‍♀️🌻

Cultivating a Compassionate Inner Dialogue

To befriend our ego, we must cultivate a compassionate inner dialogue. Rather than harshly criticizing ourselves or indulging in self-aggrandizement, we can adopt a balanced approach. Just like a good friend, the ego can gently call us out when we veer off course, reminding us to align with our true intentions and values. This compassionate self-talk encourages growth and self-improvement while maintaining a healthy sense of self-worth. Without this healthy balance, we may not know or be able to observe when we've stepped out of line or when we may need to voice our needs more clearly. This compassionate inner dialogue is of utmost importance because we spend the majority of our lives inside our own minds, navigating what can feel like the storm of thoughts sweeping through and wreaking havoc on our body, mind, and spirit. If we can pull ourselves up and speak to ourselves with compassion and a true desire to understand ourselves, then we can really begin to transcend the chaos of our lives.🌈💭💖

Balancing the Ego with Other Aspects of Being

While befriending the ego is valuable, it's also important to strike a balance and integrate other aspects of our being. This includes cultivating qualities like empathy, compassion, kindness, discernment, critical thinking, humility, and interconnectedness, to name a few. By recognizing that we are not defined solely by our ego, we can expand our perspective and engage with the world from a more holistic standpoint. The ego is but one way that we can view the self in the world around us. How can we adapt this principle into our relationships, careers, spiritual practices, and care for the environment?🌱🌺🌏

Rather than viewing the ego as an enemy to be vanquished or transcended above, we can choose to befriend it, harnessing its potential for self-awareness, personal growth, meaningful relationships, and accountability. By developing a compassionate and balanced relationship with our ego, we can navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and integrity. So, what do you say? Let your ego be your amigo in the best way possible because ultimately, we are meant to be here, right now, in this human experience. Don't spend all your time trying to ascend out of it.🙌😊

The Ego is Not Your Amigo... or is it?

As a photographer, I am constantly in awe of the power of love and the magic it brings to these intimate moments. And this elopement was no exception. From the moment they said their vows, surrounded by the sweeping landscapes and the gentle caress of the ocean breeze, there was an undeniable sense of timelessness. It was as if the universe stood still, capturing this precious moment in its eternal embrace.

I couldn't help but wonder, what is it about elopements that make them so special? Is it the intimate atmosphere, the absence of distractions, or the freedom to truly focus on what matters most – the love between two souls? These rhetorical questions danced in my mind as I clicked the shutter, freezing these fleeting moments in time.

As the ceremony ended, the real adventure began. Helén and Philipp embraced the spirit of the day, fearlessly climbing up rocks and cliffs, their laughter echoing through the wind. A perfect metaphor for the journey they were about to embark on – conquering any obstacles that may come their way with love, joy, & unconditional support.

With every step they took, every dance in the sand and every splash in the waves, I couldn't help but feel a surge of inspiration. This was not just a wedding, it was a celebration of life, of love, and of the wondrous world we inhabit. It reminded me of the magnitude of the human spirit and the ability to find beauty in even the most ordinary of moments.

The weather played its part in this grand adventure, bestowing upon us a gentle sprinkle of rain to keep us cool amidst the warmth of the day. It was a reminder that life is unpredictable, that we must learn to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in every raindrop that falls upon us.

As the sand clung to their bare feet and their smiles illuminated the beach, I realized that this was not just a destination wedding, but a destination for the heart. Dunedin provided the perfect backdrop for this love story to unfold, its rugged cliffs and sandy shores mirroring the strength and beauty of Helén and Philipp's union.

And as their journey continued, I couldn't help but be grateful for being a witness to this beautiful elopement. Being a wedding photographer is not just about capturing images; it's about telling stories that transcend time and space. It's about freezing moments in an everlasting embrace, reminding us of the love that exists in this world.

So, as I reflect on this elopement adventure with Helén and Philipp at Ocean View Beach in Dunedin, New Zealand, I am reminded once again of the power of love. It is a force that knows no boundaries, that can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, and that can ignite the spark within us all.

If you're seeking wedding inspiration, if you crave a beach wedding that is both intimate and grand, or if you dream of a destination wedding that will leave you breathless, I invite you to consider the enchanting beauty of Dunedin. Let the cliffs and waves bear witness to your love story, and let me, as your wedding photographer, capture the timeless magic that unfolds before us.

For in the realm of elopement photography, there lies a world of adventure, beauty, love, & wild adventure! A world that invites us to be present, to be fearless, and to embrace the magic of life itself.

If you are looking for a wedding officiant who will create a memorable and meaningful ceremony, I highly recommend Anke from Significant Moments NZ. As a Celebrant, Anke truly knows how to create a personalised and heartwarming experience for couples on their special day. Her attention to detail and ability to incorporate the couple's unique love story into the ceremony is truly remarkable. Additionally, Anke's warm and calming presence will surely put any wedding couple at ease, allowing them to fully enjoy every moment of their ceremony.

Helén & Philipp

As the silly season for photography, retreats, and coaching comes to an end, my wee family and I eagerly anticipate our annual trip to the backcountry. A serene place known as Paradise, located just beyond Glenorchy, near Queenstown, has become our sanctuary for the past three years. This haven provides us with the perfect opportunity to detox from the constant screens, Wi-Fi, cell phones, and never-ending workload that consumes our daily lives. For a blissful span of ten days, it's just us - my scruffy Dutchman, our two scruffy pups, and me.

Our home away from home during these ten days is Dolan's Hut. This cozy refuge offers us a respite from the hectic outside world, complete with a crackling fire, a small lounge area, and a comfortable bed setup. An outdoor kitchen and a delightful outdoor bath add a touch of luxury to our rustic retreat. And let's not forget the "loo with a view" - a humorous feature that never fails to bring a smile to our faces.

With each passing year, this trip becomes even more cherished, engrained within the fabric of our lives. In June 2023, we embarked on our most recent adventure and were met with a breathtaking winter wonderland. The area had recently been blanketed in a thick layer of snow, transforming it into a scene straight out of a fairytale. The warmth of the fire and the soothing embrace of the bath allowed us to enjoy the ethereal beauty of our surroundings while keeping comfortably snug.

Our days were filled with long walks around the Paradise Trust property, as we immersed ourselves in the untouched wilderness. Admittedly, we might have gotten lost once, entangled in the awe-inspiring landscapes that surrounded us. But such moments only added to the sense of adventure and allowed us to stumble upon hidden treasures. It was during these times that we truly appreciated the opportunity to disconnect from our digital devices and reconnect with ourselves and each other. It was also a great test for our relationship, apparently we handle stressful situations very well together. lol.

Landscape photography became a natural extension of our immersion in nature. Capturing the stunning scenery that unfolded before us felt both therapeutic and invigorating. It is a reminder of the creative element of my work, which sometimes gets lost in the hustle of the busy season. The sparkle of sunlight on every snow-covered leaf and blade of grass gave the impression that the fairies themselves were alive and communicating through a secret language only they understood. The sense of magic in the air was simply undeniable.

In addition to photography, I found solace in the peacefulness of meditation and the escapism of reading. These activities allowed me to delve deeper into my own thoughts and emotions, uncovering newfound perspectives and tapping into wellsprings of creativity. This time in Paradise becomes a catalyst for personal growth and introspection, as we shed the weight of our everyday responsibilities and simply allow ourselves to be.

As we packed our bags and bid farewell to Dolan's Hut, we carried with us the memories of this extraordinary experience. A beautiful fiery sunrise sent us off that final morning. The digital detox, the connection with nature, and the valuable time away from the demands of work had rejuvenated our spirits. Our annual pilgrimage to this winter wonderland, to our personal piece of paradise, had reminded us of what truly matters - family, love, adventure, magic, simplicity, and the beauty that lies within the natural world.

So, until the next time we venture into the backcountry, we hold onto the photographs, the cherished moments, and the lessons learned during our time away. Knowing that Paradise will always welcome us with open arms, ready to transport us to a world where the only thing that matters is the serenity found amidst the snow-capped mountains and the whispers of the fairies & elves in the wind.

Already eagerly anticipating our next trip come 31st May!

If you want to experience the magic & rustic beauty of Paradise, I highly recommend booking into one of their huts for a few nights! It's also an amazing place to get married or celebrate a special event. 10/10