‘Wilderness on my doorstep’
Miranda Gulland swapped stilettos for an apron and running shoes when she moved here from Glasgow.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been here?
Like the best things in life, I moved to New Zealand accidentally after an inspired visit to see a friend for the weekend.
I was working in PR in London at the time and needed a life change. Having fallen in love with New Zealand, I decided to make the most out of the working holiday visa before I turned 30. That was four years ago and I’m still here to tell the story!
What do you do here?
When I moved to New Zealand, I ditched my stilettos for an apron and embarked on a career change to become a baker. I cook up a storm at Smith the Grocer in The Old Bank Arcade where I also run our social media accounts.
What surprised you most when you first arrived?
Kiwis are amazingly resourceful: they can pretty much do anything when they put their mind to it. From small DIY tricks to full-scale build-your-ownhome projects with a ‘‘why the devil not?’’ cheeky grin.
What are the greatest advantages to living here?
That carefree, she’ll-be-right, easy attitude makes for a much more relaxed lifestyle.
The accessibility of the great outdoors and having all that wilderness on your doorstep is a massive appeal.
Disadvantages?
As a baker, quality food is really important and I find some of the food prices – especially for healthy, fresh and whole foods – outrageously expensive. Public transport can be limited and expensive at times.
What do you do in your spare time?
When my nose isn’t lost in a cook book you’ll find me working out at my local crossfit gym on Taranaki St.
I also love to read and write or pop on some fun tunes and dance around the living room with my friends.
How expensive do you find it compared to back home?
It varies: some elements of living here are more pricey (food, travel, books) while other elements (such as houses) are slightly more affordable.
What are your favourite New Zealand foods?
I love baking with feijoas and tamarillos when they’re in season. And who doesn’t love Whittaker’s chocolate or Fix & Fogg’s peanut butter? Not to mention all those bright, fresh, largerthan-life vegetables you get here.
How do you get around?
It’s because Wellington is so picturesque and sizeable that I walk most places. Not because I only just learnt to drive... At the ripe age of 32...
How do you find the shopping?
I’ve always been terrible when it comes to fashion but I struggle a bit with New Zealand clothes which never quite fit and seem rather pricey.
Favourite after-dark activity?
I love getting out and about around Welly, whether it’s a wee stroll around Oriental Parade or a meander up Cuba St to see what’s going on. I also love nipping up to Brooklyn’s Penthouse Cinema on a lazy Sunday afternoon and indulging in a wee vino at The Salty Pigeon afterwards.
What are the top three things you recommend for visitors?
Zealandia is an absolute must, as is a stroll up Mount Victoria for the views and a kayak or cycle around the waterfront, weather permitting...
Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
British media – especially BBC Radio 4. British architecture.
All the beautiful art galleries and clothes shops.
How easy is it for you to go home?
It’s expensive and requires at least three weeks off work so it’s not very easy.
If you could change one thing about New Zealand, what would it be?
Nothing. I love New Zealand. Please never change.