He Ta¯ ngata:

In Japan, we lived down the bottom of a valley and didn’t have cars. So we’d put toboggans in our backpacks, and climb up to the road and wave down a car and pretend we were lost. People would feel sorry for us and drive us where we wanted to go, and we’d go out drinking for the night then get on our little toboggans and sled all the way home.

Living in the South Island, I’ve discovered Southland’s rugged beaches and quaint little seaside villages. Sometimes we’ll go to Riverton Anna Dowsett (top); in Japan in 1991 (pictured centre) and with her daughter, Ruby. and stay in old Kiwiana baches or to The Catlins when it’s stormy and take the dogs.

I was with mum once, driving through Tekapo and she mentioned The Church of the Lost Shepherd. She said, “You know our family built that church?” Apparently one of Dad’s cousins from 100 years ago was the first woman to get married there. I called my sister and asked if she knew that story and she did. And I was like, where the hell was I when that history lesson was being taught? It’s the most photographed church in New Zealand. I love living in Arrowtown, it’s got such a strong sense of community. It’s really touristy during the day then, when 5 o’clock comes, it’s returned to the locals. The buses leave and things are quiet again. I’m Guest Services Manager for NZski. I’m based in Queenstown and I love my job. I’ve been really lucky how things have evolved. People get stuck in the mindset of thinking they need to be always looking for the next thing, but I’m really content with what I’ve got.