Raising Wild & Free: Why I’m Grateful to Raise Kids in Aotearoa
May 2, 2025When I think about what really matters in childhood, it’s not the gadgets or the perfectly curated toy shelves — it’s the mud between toes, the scratched knees from tree climbing, and the endless questions sparked by spotting a bug under a log. It’s the simple, wild joy of being outside. And here in Aotearoa, we are lucky.
New Zealand offers a lifestyle that invites children to grow up in connection with nature. Whether it’s the beach, the bush, or the backyard, the outdoors isn’t something we need to schedule — it’s woven into our daily lives. I see this as a privilege and a responsibility. I want my kids to feel that they are part of the natural world, not separate from it.
I’ve always believed that childhood should be full of freedom: freedom to explore, to take risks, to be bored and inventive, to play without adult interference. The outdoors gives this so generously. It doesn’t care if your shoes match, or if you can sit still in a classroom. It just says: come as you are.
Through nature, my kids are constantly learning — about life cycles, weather, cooperation, resilience, and empathy. They’re not just learning facts; they’re building a relationship with the world around them. That’s something no app or worksheet can replace.
Of course, it’s not always idyllic. We’ve had wet socks, sibling squabbles in the rain, and meltdowns halfway up a hill. But even on the hard days, there’s something grounding about being outside together. Nature seems to hold space for all of it — the big feelings, the quiet moments, and the everyday magic.
So here’s to raising wild-hearted, muddy-kneed kids. To letting go of perfection and leaning into presence. And to saying yes to sticks, stones, and stories found under trees.
