Good Life

Gillian Swinton is trying to live self-sufficiently: living off the land and adapting to the seasons. With her partner Hamish, their two dogs, a cat, a few sheep, some bees and a lot of chooks, they are also building community and remembering not to take it all too seriously.


On their 2.7-hectare property in Central Otago’s heartland, Gillian and Hamish lead a lifestyle that harks back to a time when people led a simpler life.

In this gorgeously illustrated guide, Gillian shares all the tips and tricks she’s learned about how to be a modern-day homesteader, and how you can be one too – whether you’re looking after livestock on a lifestyle block, or tending to an inner-city garden (or planter box).

Includes more than 25 recipes for pickling, preserving and delicious meals to help you get the most out of your kitchen, garden and paddock.

Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
Imprint: A&U New Zealand
Publication date: 15/04/2025