Today we were lucky enough to visit Monika and Hermann’s 2.5 hectare haven a stunning extension of a previous gathering about off grid living and self-sufficiency. And just like last time, it was inspiring, soul filling, and a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

From the moment we arrived, the garden welcomed us with open arms (and edible delights). Fruit trees, herbs, a thriving food forest  everywhere you looked, there was life and abundance. We even got to take home some treasures: purple fennel seeds and a whimsically named flower that’s gone to seed called “honesty.” Fitting, really, for a place that radiates authenticity and love in every corner.

Their garden wasn’t just about food though. It was a living gallery with playful crockery, quirky sculptures, and hidden artistic gems tucked under trees or climbing through branches. Even their home carried this joyful spirit. Inside, little cute shelves with smurfs, jars of lollies, and a lone spinning top on a window sill gave glimpses into the heart of this creative, thoughtful couple.

A potluck lunch brought us all together under the dappled light colourful veggie dishes, a cabbage salad with the most delicious dressing, Māori potato flatbread, decadent cakes and desserts… and let’s not forget the homemade grape juice, kombucha, and fresh herbal tea picked straight from the garden. It was a feast, in every sense of the word.

Monika and Hermann, former café owners in Taupō and the original force behind the Taupō Markets (which Iain and I used to love attending), had also spent 7–8 years building their beautiful strawbale home as well incredible where Did they find the hours. Off grid and brimming with charm, the home is a testament to resilience, vision, and careful planning.

We had the privilege of touring the house learning about their composting toilet system, solar panels, and backup batteries. The house is double-glazed, holds warmth beautifully, and never once felt like it was lacking in comfort. It was a gentle yet firm reminder: off-grid living isn’t about going without it’s about being intentional.

As Monika wisely shared, living off-grid requires you to truly assess how you live. Do you run five loads in the dryer? Rely on multiple fridges and chest freezers? Have energy-hungry appliances you can’t imagine parting with? Their approach encourages a shift — maybe towards preserving food through canning or dehydrating instead of endless refrigeration. It’s not about sacrifice, but about understanding your rhythms and choosing sustainable ones.

We also got great insights into solar setups a reminder to always read the fine print when it comes to panel and battery schemes, particularly with rent to own payment systems. There can be hidden costs that pop up later.

All in all, it was an amazing afternoon. I left feeling nourished body, mind, and spirit and deeply grateful for the generosity Monika and Hermann shared. Their home isn’t just off-grid. It’s off the charts inspiring.