In her newly released book The Good Life, author Gillian Swinton opens up about her transformative experience of homesteading in Central Otago, offering readers insights and practical advice on embracing a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Swinton, who grew up observing her grandmother’s efforts on a family farm in Northern Scotland, drew inspiration from her upbringing when she and her partner, Hamish, moved to a 2.7-hectare property in New Zealand. The couple’s pursuit of a simpler life has blossomed into a full-fledged homesteading venture, complete with sheep, bees, and a growing passion for rural living.
“The transition was gradual,” Swinton reflects. “All of a sudden, we’ve got two-and-a-half hectares and sheep and bees – and it snowballed from there.”
Her book, The Good Life, is both a personal narrative and a practical guide, filled with tips, tricks, and reflections on how to navigate the challenges and rewards of homesteading. Through her experience, Swinton aims to inspire others to reconnect with the land and simplify their lives, offering an antidote to the fast-paced, modern world.
Listeners can hear more about her journey during The Sunday Session on Newstalk ZB, where Swinton discusses her homesteading lifestyle and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
