Can you believe we’re already deep into May?! With winter just around the corner, we thought it was the perfect time to take a breath, slow down, and share a little behind-the-scenes peek into what we’ve been up to lately — both inside and outside the office.
From personal milestones to seasonal rituals, great reads, binge-worthy shows, and the small joys that are keeping us cosy and inspired, here’s what life has looked like for us lately…
Kirsty
We wrapped up another grape harvest very successfully, and we grew grapes for lower alcohol wine this year which is tasting delicious! I handed in my final assignments for the first year of my Master’s—what a milestone! Still getting the odd flicker of imposter syndrome, but as the saying goes… fake it till you make it, right?
Somewhere between the grapes, I found time to dig into my research - literally! I’ve been measuring how much carbon our Koaka plants are storing in the vineyard soil compared to other cover crops. It’s early days, but it’s exciting to see those first data points start to form a picture.
And while the vineyard has been centre stage, Hark & Zander has been quietly having a big month too. We’ve been deep in development for a new range. Something a little more active, still plant-powered, and beautifully packaged (I can’t wait to share more). It’s been a mix of creative brainstorms, ingredient trials, and the kind of conversations that make me genuinely excited about where we’re heading. There’s a lot of care and thought going into it behind the scenes, and I’m so grateful for the amazing team bringing it all to life.
At home, Isabelle’s started full-time daycare now that Keegan is on maternity leave. She’s loving it, even if she doesn’t want me to leave in the mornings and doesn’t want me to pick her up in the afternoons! We also had a family wedding this month (my lovely niece Charlotte tied the knot) and Isabelle and I fully leaned into the moment, dressing like sparkly princesses for the day.
I even managed a rare movie night or two—White Bird (absolute tearjerker) and the series Adolescence, which was a good reminder that being present with Isabelle matters more than any to-do list or work notification.
So yes, it’s been a full month. Colourful, busy, sometimes a little chaotic… but filled with good things 😊 Bring on June!
Cushla
I’ve been making the most of the slower season — I snuck in a break between Easter and Anzac Day to finally tackle some life admin and give the house a little TLC before winter rolls in. Top of the list: decluttering the wardrobe (farewell summer dresses, hello chunky knitwear), reorganising the chaotic linen cupboard, refreshing the veggie garden for the cooler months, and adding some cosy touches around the house... think soft throws, flickering candles, and all the warm, snuggly vibes.
I’ve also been trying to set up a little yoga/Pilates nook at home — a peaceful corner where I can stretch it out and move a bit more (especially after a little too much chocolate over Easter... no regrets though!). Nothing fancy, just a mat, a few candles, and a space to breathe, (if the cats allow me, that is). They seem to think any yoga session is just a new opportunity for cuddles, chaos, or both.
In between all the organising, I wrapped up The White Lotus (Season 3) — set in dreamy Thailand, packed with luxe resorts, messy relationships, and just the right amount of drama. It’s definitely got me daydreaming about a Southeast Asian getaway. Now I’m onto The Last Anniversary on ThreeNow, based on the Liane Moriarty novel. It’s full of quirky characters, a mysterious little island community, and family secrets that slowly unravel. So good.
I’m also loving the shift in seasonal produce, (bring on hearty homemade soups and fresh from the oven crusty bread). Speaking of which, here’s my go-to recipe for easy crusty French bread (no overnight rise required!): Easy Crusty French Bread
Charlotte
With the weather so dreary in Auckland lately, I’ve become totally obsessed with making dhal as an easy weeknight dinner. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for big-batch cooking. Plus, it somehow tastes even better the next day. I’ve also been loving a little touch of cinnamon and maple syrup in my morning coffee. It feels very autumnal and pairs perfectly with a cosy blanket and a good book.
Speaking of which, I’m currently deep into the latest mystery in the Will Trent series, and it is so insane (in the best way). If you’re into gritty mysteries or psychological thrillers, I highly recommend giving this series a read! If that’s not your vibe, I’ve also been in my Tessa Bailey era and I HIGHLY recommend. They’re cute and fluffy, plus they all have a guaranteed HEA.
Like many of you, I’ve also been fully invested in The White Lotus this past month. I actually waited until all of season three had dropped so I could binge it start to finish… beginning, of course, with a rewatch of seasons one and two! If you haven’t watched it yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. With just a handful of episodes per season and those dreamy, sun-soaked settings, it’s the perfect escape from the chilly NZ weather.
That’s a wrap (for now!)
We hope this little peek into our world gave you a warm hug of inspiration, comfort, or maybe even a new book or recipe to try. As the temperatures drop and we all start reaching for the woolly socks, we’re holding onto the little things that spark joy — and we hope you are too.
Until next time, stay cosy, stay kind to yourself, and keep making space for the moments that matter x
