Our Taranaki Expert is Jenn Julian, mum of two, Outdoor Educator, and Founder of Trails & Tots. 

Jenn is an experienced educator, with a Masters degree in Outdoor Experiential Education, Curriculum and Pedagogy. She has taught Outdoor Education for just about every age group, facilitating a wide variety of skill-based and experiential learning in the outdoors.  

Originally from Canada, and married to a kiwi, Jenn has called Taranaki home since 2017. Through a combination of work, volunteering efforts and personal adventures (both with and without her kids), Jenn has explored the Taranaki region thoroughly. Jenn feels passionate about inclusivity and accessibility of time in nature and started Trails & Tots during her maternity leave with hopes of providing meaningful experiences and connection for whanau around Taranaki.

She has goals of extending resources across Aotearoa to help reach and support more parents looking to recreate outdoors with their children.

You can follow Jenn's adventures and tips for getting outdoors with tamariki on her Instagram: @trailsandtots  

You can learn more about Trails & Tots / The Nature Connection Trust through the website: www.trailsandtots.co.nz 

Jasmine is an outdoor-loving mama of two and the founder of Kiwi Kids Outdoors — a community that shares ideas, spots, and tips for getting outside with kids. She also organises regular hiking and nature play meet-ups for parents and little ones around Canterbury. Jasmine reckons Canterbury is an outdoor gem, with mountains, ocean, rivers, and lakes all right on your doorstep. It’s the perfect playground for family adventures.

Website: www.kiwikidsoutdoors.com

Instagram: @kiwi_kids_outdoors 

Facebook: Kiwi Kids Outdoors

Jasmine is a mum of a one year one-year-old and founder of The Resting Sol.

“The idea for my brand came from those early days of motherhood when rest felt impossible and I could barley recognise myself. Each of my peices are designed to help parents get out of the house more and hopefully feel a little more like themseleves!

I love living in Hamilton, im a sucker for a day trip and love living an hour away from most holiday places! But i also love living here, raglan is perfect for summer day and our playgrounds are epic!”

Where you can find her:

Instagram: @therestingsol

Website: www.therestingsol.co.nz

Tiktok: @therestingsol

Miranda is our Wellington expert. Born and bred in Wellington, she’s a mum of two energetic boys aged 6 and 3.5 years. 

“We spend A-LOT of our time exploring our own backyard & enjoy seeing what the coolest little capital has on offer for kids & families. We spend most of our weekends playing sport, exploring our parks and enjoying a fluffy as well as catching up with family and friends. 

There have been many times I have turned up to parks/places & wished I had known about the amenities/facilities prior (hot coffees, food & toilets with change tables!) and other times I really need d a fully fenced play area cause.. toddlers!

I then decided to create Parent_Hood_Wgtn with a goal to be a place for all parents/caregivers to come and see what’s out and about in their neighbourhood!”

Follow her on Instagram @Parent_Hood_Wgtn

Kate is the creator behind @christchurchwithkids and one of our Christchurch experts.

“I share family-friendly things to do, eat and explore in Christchurch (and beyond) with my toddler in tow. I’m all about finding those outings that are fun, easy and actually doable for parents (coffee stops included).

Christchurch has really come into its own lately - new playgrounds, cool cafes and foodie spots, creative events - it feels like there’s always something fresh to discover.

One of our favourite spots is the Botanic Gardens: a fluffy and coffee, a wander through the winding nature trails and ending at the playground. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next little adventure (or just want to know where the best treats are), follow along! I love sharing our go-to gems.”

Find her on Instagram @christchurchwithkids

Natalie is a mum of one who loves getting out and about, and is also the founder of Dusty's Delicious Dishes.

“Dusty's Delicious Dishes is your online hub that empowers you with the knowledge you need to live a healthy, happy life through all things food! Imagine waking up with the vibrant energy you need to tackle your day, thanks to incredible food. My expertise—honed over five years of owning an award-winning healthy meal company—is now combined with the joy of motherhood. This unique approach focuses on high-frequency food designed to fuel your body first, and is perfectly amazing for your little ones' health and growth. This is your essential online hub for digital products like our e-cookbooks, cook-along videos, and even personal chefing consultations that transform mealtimes into happy, healthy experiences for everyone.”

You can find her on:

Instgram: @dustysdeliciousdishes

Website: https://www.dustysdeliciousdishes.com