Ryan McDonald
Taking A Shot
- Entrepreneur
- Hospitality & Tourism
Ryan McDonald may not have been born in the South Island, but he’s proud to call North Canterbury home.
Here, you'll find a collection of personal accounts that offer a unique insight into the way we live, work, and thrive in this beautiful region. From farmers and winemakers to artists and entrepreneurs, our diverse community has so much to share. We hope these stories inspire you to explore the hidden gems of North Canterbury and discover the many opportunities that await you here.
Sector
Jodie Starling
The Road to Starling
- Entrepreneur
- Hospitality & Tourism
For one of North Canterbury’s rising social media stars, Jodie Starling of Starling Homestead, the journey to the region began with a Trade Me listing and a spark of curiosity.
Sonia Barrish
A Natural Entrepreneur
- Entrepreneur
- Manufacturing
When Sonia Barrish first moved to Canterbury, it was the proximity to the ski fields that sealed the deal.
Oscar McCauley
Brewing Something Big
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Manufacturing
Oscar McCauley didn’t just grow up in North Canterbury, he’s grown with it.
Ellie Fitzgerald
Candles & A Calling
- Entrepreneur
If you’ve ever scrolled through social media and stumbled upon the refreshingly honest world of Loving Ellie’s Belly, you’ll already know Ellie Fitzgerald is not your average influencer.
David Dicker
In the Pursuit of Excellence
Tucked in between the picturesque hills of North Canterbury, Rodin Cars is a world-class powerhouse of automotive innovation.
Sarah & Charlie Bellam
Winning Combination
- Video
"It’s a massively daunting prospect, moving from the UK to a small, rural town in New Zealand, but the rewards are so rich. We've never looked back."
Kirk McDonald
My Home is My Playground
- Video
I’ve lived in North Canterbury for most of my life. I moved here when I was four years old. My wife is also from North Canterbury.
Bobby Harpur
A Southerner Calling North Canterbury Home
- Video
Call it fate or luck of the Irish; Bobby and Ruth Harpur were destined to call Hanmer Springs home.
Crisanna Nel
Nau mai, haere mai!, Deputy Principal - Te Kura o Tuahiwi
- Article
Crisanna Nel has lived all around the globe, and now resides with her whānau in Waikuku Beach where they enjoy the natural environment and welcoming community. She maintains that there’s nowhere in the world like North Canterbury.
Julia Warren
The Perfect Place, Owner of Make It Raw
- Video
Food manufacturer Julia Warren’s journey has brought her full circle, from a childhood in rural North Canterbury to Auckland, Christchurch then back to North Canterbury to build a business and a life for her young family in Waikuku.
Mary & Ovini Tuinawaivuvu
The Right Place
- Video
"We work hard but we don’t have to go far at the end of the day, so we have time for our family."