Sheryl Simpson

Owner of Rua Awa Lodge, Ka¯kahi.

What’s one place you would take every visitor to New Zealand, and why?

Tongariro National Park and Mt Ruapehu, my tu¯ rangawaewae, the standing place of my heart. I descend from Nga¯ ti Tu¯ wharetoa and this is my home place.

The scale and seasonal beauty of this area is breathtaking, from multi-day hikes to simple walks, snow sports and summer hiking, the ever-changing vistas and sublime peaks, are inspiring.

We can see Mt Tongariro, Mt Nga¯ uruhoe and Mt Ruapehu from Rua Awa Lodge. Some days we wake up, look out the window, feel the mountains calling us, and just take off. It always gives me goosebumps, and we want other people to experience that.

What’s your secret backyard favourite spot?

O¯ hinetonga Reserve in O¯ whango on the Whakapapa River. It’s a starting point for the 42 Traverse, home to the endangered whio duck, great swimming spots, beautiful pristine bush, wetlands, and a great 3.8km loop walk or run, with Blue Hill Cafe just up the road for a coffee and buddha bowl.

What’s your favourite place for a coffee/pie?

Kai Nui Eatery & Coffee Cart in Taumarunui for a vegetable ku¯ mara pie and flat white.

What’s one New Zealand spot that is at the top of your bucket list?

My father worked on the Cook Strait ferries and I would often make the return trip from Wellington to Picton with him as a young girl.

It left a lasting impression on me, and I have always wanted to explore the Marlborough Sounds and Abel Tasman National Park.