WE NEED A BREAK From Homestead Renovations | Exploring the Wairarapa Coast, New Zealand

[@taniac1860]

Tip 1. Next time you collect dags fill up a sack and compact it down. It will save you a few trips. Tip 2. Kowhai trees are also nitrogen fixers, so perfect to add to your orchard, and to plant under in general. Tip 3. Although it’s great to have a covered clothes line, best results come from drying in direct sunlight. The sun will both sanitise and bleach out stains from whites without the need to add bleach etc into your wash… P.S. remember you’re in NZ now… those sandals have transformed into jandals 😊

[@samirwildcat]

I agree sacks are way easier and you can fit a couple of them into the wheelbarrow so less trips down the road.

[@kytddjj]

.

[@Tom_McMurtry]

Hopefully Alex sees this one!

[@kiwi_welltraveled4375]

Working in your jandals. Perfect! I can see a trailer in your near future..... 😀👍

[@AlexanderAyling]

You can read minds?!? Haha

[@paulalaurie7935]

In the Liverpool club scene I had an encounter with a guy who asked me to dance (this was in 1964 and The Beatles were all the rage). He said "where do you work" and I said for the Accounts Department of British Railways, I said "I work there too". He said, "Are you the new secretary" and I said Yes, I am". Long story short, we have been married 52 years and guess where we live now... Tauranga in New Zealand!

[@dianes4858]

Wonderful story!

[@NylenaD]

If you would like any further suggestions for native trees, I would suggest the pōhutukawa. It's NZ's Christmas tree! :D Every time I see the blazing red flowers of the pōhutukawa I know it's Christmas/summer time!! Really pretty. They can grow fairly big (20m tall approx and they have a wide crown, so usually wider than they are tall), so you'll probably need a good sized area for it. A little story time: 'Possibly the most famous pōhutukawa in Maori legend is a small, wind-beaten tree clinging to the cliff face near Cape Reinga. The 800-year-old tree is reputed to guard the entrance to a sacred cave through which disembodied spirits pass on their way to the next world.'

[@cltinturkey]

They are truly spectacular. I arrived for my first NZ visit in late December and they were gorgeous everywhere I went for the next six weeks.

[@barrysullivan59]

About 30yrs ago I was walking past a local allotment site Being a warm day I just stopped and watched the gardeners working there plots. I noticed one particular gentleman and enquired what he was doing. Collecting seeds was his reply. This old man became a huge friend and mentor for many years having a wealth of knowledge. I called him an almanac on 2 feet. Plus I haven’t purchased any seeds for over 20 yrs.

[@AlexanderAyling]

What a great happy story Barry. Thank you for sharing. Feel free to share some of the seed knowledge here for everyone to learn 🙏🏼

[@barrysullivan59]

@@AlexanderAyling when you see a plant go to seed,don’t fret or moan as some do. This is nature’s way propagation is about to happen. So collect,dry and label and store to your heart’s content. Plenty of info on KZbin for tomatoes and others.

[@nevillenepia574]

I had an encounter with an old lady just out of the blue but it wasn’t in the country but it did involve an old horse and coach ride from Wellington to the Wairarapa going over the ranges between Wellington and Greytown Featherstone area of the Wairarapa province. It was a wonderful conversation where she wanted to share a story of her and her Dad when she a girl of around 5 or 6. I listened to her explain that around the turn of the century 1900 her and her dad arrived into Wellington from Britain on a ship . They boarded a stage coach to take them over the Remutaka Ranges to Featherstone/ Greytown. Sitting opposite her was a Old Maori man who still bore the full facial engraved moko ( chiseled tattoo ). She told me she was so scared of him because he just stared at her the whole journey. She thought in her later years that it must have been the blond locks of hair she had then. She would hide behind her fathers arm and peak out at him and he never took his eyes off her. She said that now in her eighties she often thought of that journey because this gentleman looked so noble because he was taller than her dad and had olive coloured skin with that amazing chiseled moko. She told me this inside the Auckland War Memorial Museum Maori exhibition as I was standing looking at beautiful Goldie Portraits of early Maori Chiefs and Chieftanesses and common Maori folk of those times. Absolutely true story. The endz

[@SHANONisRegenerate]

I enjoyed that

[@tessabrugge4758]

I do think you need a trailer, living rural and doing jobs around a rural property would cut your time in half. get a tow bar put on your vehicle and then buy a trailer. Love your videos, From one rural dweller to another xxxx

[@jaygee5693]

"Metal roofing slats" = "Sheets of corrugated iron" in Kiwi (and in Aussie). "Corrugated iron" is usually abbreviated to "tin", as is "aluminium" when referring to a boat. So, neither a tin boat, nor a tin roof, are actually made of tin!

[@trishdowd7511]

I was calling out corrugated iron while watching lol... funny what we kiwis take for granted

[@nikkilogan7726]

You are blessed to have a beautiful place, a beautiful property you call it 'Home'. A place where you can relax, unwind yet live in such a gorgeous piece of heaven on earth, full of beautiful plants, trees & animals roaming around. 🏞️💖 Its ok to have a break from all of this home reno... & always ask for help from neighbors & community so that you save time & effort. Soon when its finished, all the pain & frustration, its all worth it 😎✌️💖🇳🇿

[@Mikeyorself]

Yeah Wairarapa coast! Mean! Mate, how therapeutic was that surf? Great shots. Cheers Alex!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Yeah Mike!! So nice!! Want to get out and surf more of the coast here, great waves

[@helenvwalker7919]

You would find that your clothes dry better if you open them out more, instead of doubling them over the line. Fascinated by your veg bed layers. Can't wait till you start planting them

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Helen!

[@martinemcclean202]

Hang clothes "tops from the bottom and bottoms from the top" :) I enjoy watching your videos Alex!

[@Nynke_K]

@@martinemcclean202 bottoms from the bottom, too! Trousers legs don't have those thick waistbands - don't want to double those up!

[@trishdowd7511]

Lol... I was thinking that's such a man way to hang clothes 😂

[@barrynichols2846]

@@trishdowd7511 tops from the bottom. Was not something I was aware of until I moved in with my wife....

[@ThePhilonz]

Nice Te Reo pronunciation. The Greater Wellington Regional Council has a guide on their website about which native trees grow best in which areas. Love watching you guys get stuck in, good on ya mate.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Phil!

[@camillat984]

Alex is reaching peak Kiwi wearing jandals in the dag shed 🤙

[@AlexanderAyling]

Churrrrrr 😂

[@michaelhohaia1651]

The hoki is used to move Wool bails around. And to stck bails on top of each other, at least we do it here in NZ.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks for clarifying!! Love learning about how things work down here

[@neillsmart213]

Supplementary: used to roll full wool bales/ around after pressing, and onto the truck when it arrived .... brute strength required ... watched some of the truck drivers throw them around before we sold our farm when i was young - I could barely move them :)

[@christineeliseev]

We went out there a few weeks ago to look for the blood of the wheke that Kupe killed. The kids here will break open the rocks at the beach to look for the blood - and it's there! You may want to plant some kawakawa if you don't have any (they grow in the shade, under trees). Very, very useful plant.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Christine! Such a cool story!

[@wendyalessio2110]

Can just imagine after your encounter with the man you met when wheeling your barrow of dags home, when he was telling his friends about the crazy American from LA who’s bought a farm in the NZ countryside, something that wouldn’t happen very often in that part of the country

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahah probably something along those lines :)

[@elmaaliefendic5847]

Guys, are there more houses for sale around? 😀 Seriously, If you don't stop filming this beautiful nature and peaceful environment , we are all gona come to your neighbourhood. Enjoy, well deserved destination in your path.

[@jessicabell5861]

lamb cam makes me smile every time

[@AlexanderAyling]

More on the way next week

[@willguenther8255]

Yeah..Woolson POV!!! In time you are going to need to mount the GoPro to him and see where he roams

[@rollyrolly7729]

Kowhai trees are great for the Tui's in spring and they are easy to grow. I've got 2 at the back of my place and right now there is 30 to 50 Tui's in the 2 trees. I think it takes about 10 years before you see any flowers. You'll find all the yellow seeds under a Kowhai tree. Just simply pick them up and put them in some dirt and around the end of summer there will be little Kowhai trees growing.

[@jamestaylor6041]

Great to see the progress on the home Alex and Carrie , and getting the garden under way but you should have had that done a month ago ( just pulling your leg ) but for next year you want your garden prepped by the end of august to start planting at the start of september . May I suggest a worm garden , the liquid they produce is one of the best natural fertilizers you can use and they multiply so fast and you can add them to the garden , you can feed them almost all of your kitchen waste , just don't feed them onions , meat or citrus as they don't like it . Enjoy the fruits of your labour , oh and by the way , your now rural folk , so those little chats with the neighbours and the odd random driving down your road will provide you with many great little tips , keep up the great work guys .

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks for the tips James

[@Tiramisù.2-d6w]

Your homestead is a dream 😍 I love the way you guys take care of the place, of Woolson and Lanka, of each other! ❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Aww thank you Patrizia 🙏🏼 - we’re all just works in progress ❤️

[@placidojr.menaje4067]

(July 31, 2022) Your homestead looks great and it is becoming a model homestead. Am just amazed at your and Carrie's efforts in transforming your place. The animals are adorable: Lanka, Wilson, Diego and Frida, Waddles, the geese, the five "rebels". Add to these is your beautiful garden! One couldn't ask for more! You put your heart into it and it is now becoming a reality---a dream come true.

[@the_clueless_traveller]

Saying ‘you wanna go!?’ to a goose is the most Southern Hemisphere thing you’ve done so far mate 😂😂

[@AlexanderAyling]

LOL 😂 - the goose wants to fight lol

[@reneejones5675]

lmao gold

[@the_clueless_traveller]

@@AlexanderAyling they make good guard dogs!

[@sweetiedarl6802]

I am watching it as we speak. Your videos have officially become part of my Saturday morning routine.☕️ Such a lovely way to start my weekend! 🥰

[@AlexanderAyling]

Aww this is awesome to read! Glad you’ve welcomed me into your weekend. Thank you!

[@SARAH-hj5ut]

Same here I’m new to the channel but live The Vedios

[@SHANONisRegenerate]

Hey Alex just a word of warning be careful grabbing ceramic fuses like that if they have been rewired incorrectly there may be live fuse wire sticking out the top or bottom of the fuse you can't see. When Im not too busy I'll try catch up with your story. All the best.

[@louisaotto5599]

Life in the US is so stressful right now. Your videos are so calming, it almost seems like you are on a different planet. Thank you for this content. I could watch you build a garden all day!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Louisa - I hope things get better in the USA soon. 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@60greyhairandsparkles21]

Great to see you guys taking some time out, keeping a nice work life balance. Might be time to look at getting a small trailer, seems you are proper country folk now ha ha!! It will save so many Barrow trips, however catching up with neighbours is golden 😊. Would love to send you some of our hemp balm for those hard working hands 🌻🐑🐕😘

[@AlexanderAyling]

The trailer is a must! Looking into it. We are also going to open a PO Box, so the hemp balm can help my hands haha. Thank you!

[@60greyhairandsparkles21]

@@AlexanderAyling Hubby said a tandem axel, long draw bar trailer, with a crate ideally. I have no idea what all that means ha ha but he reckons it is good for you guys 😊. Good news re the PO Box too, I’ll send you both some goodies 😊

[@ivybanks7936]

Yayy!!! Alex, you and Carrie's videos are the highlight of my week! 😊 I seriously cannot get enough. As always, amazing footage!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Aww thank you Ivy!! So nice to hear that!

[@christineelderfield3680]

I love watching Carrie and now have found you. What a perfect couple you are. Love your content Alex especially of he beautiful scenery of New Zealand. Really enjoy you two👍love from England👏👏👏👋👋👋👋

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Christine 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@jswa1225]

Yeah we have a washing line out in the open and only use another line under cover when the weather looks a bit iffy

[@AlexanderAyling]

Setting one up out in the open too

[@TessaPK52]

So glad to see you and Carrie took a bit of a break. Don't want to see you get discouraged and quit. I'm loving the show. It's great and therapeutic.

[@AlexanderAyling]

No quitting over here. Stay tuned for next week big updates!

[@kimm3473]

Really enjoying your journey in NZ. Thanks for sharing! Feels like home in your hearts.

[@casslarkin4567]

Former Gov. Jerry Brown of California once helped me with a car problem on a back road in Guerneville, CA (Sonoma County). What a great, down-to-earth guy. I was participating in ten day Zen Retreat and he is also a practicing Zen Buddhist and we had our own Dharma talk. I'll never forget it!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Now that’s a story that needs to make the news lol

[@pollylolly6473]

as to native plants, i recomend kaka beak they are similar to kowhai but the flowers are red and a little more pointy.. and the native birds love them aaannd they are endangered so the more the merrier. :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Polly!

[@gmoo84]

My dads been growing kaka beak from seed and giving heaps away to family and friends. They are glorious when they are out in flower.

[@dianes4858]

Dude, those drone shots! Looks like heaven to me.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Diane 🙏🏼

[@pepta]

A dag can mean someone or something that's funny, can't it? I seem to remember people saying it alot years ago - not so much now

[@AlexanderAyling]

So I’ve been told

[@bbarxx]

My daughter name is Kowhai, surfed at Castlepoint a few times as a young fella, gravel road drives in the Wairarapa are the best. Great video of the country, missing home but stuck here in Melbourne lockdown. If you haven't been already, Riversdale is a good spot, just little south and if you can hook up with a local diver, they might show you where to find some crayfish.

[@rttheo7327]

Nice touch taking a break from your work by exploring the local region. No doubt you have plans for the Tararua ranges in the future, so I'm looking forward to that. Definitely seeing glimpses of some typical kiwi-isms which are mentioned in some of the comments, but you'll need to start seriously considering your BBQ setup for summer...its a must!!!

[@ohnean1]

"C'mon you kid's, rattle ya dags" ... when you chased sheep with lot'sa dry dag's on their bum it had a rattling sound, hence when the 'ol man wanted you to hurry along ... "rattle ya dag's"

[@jaygee5693]

We had that phrase yelled at us numerous times by our impatient mother.

[@jocelyngordon9346]

Yours and Carrie’s videos have become my favourite thing to watch. I can’t even fully put into words how calming and enjoyable they are. I have to admit though that I laughed really hard at the washing machine debacle in your last video. 😂

[@AlexanderAyling]

Awww thank you Jocelyn! This is so nice to hear. We laughed at us too lol

[@maxdugan5319]

Great way to end week with positive video! Keep up the great work!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Max!

[@chrishellize]

Half way through the episode, just pausing to comment that you know you are a true New Zealander when you shovel dags in jandals ;) These Homestead videos remind me of an English/Aussie programme called River Cottage, without the cooking segment. Just a slice of life programme about renovations and rural life by nice people. Cant think of anything I would rather watch and you guys do it so beautifully and professionally, please keep them coming!! Thank you!! :D

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Chris!! The cooking content is coming soon too! Working on getting an outdoor cooking set up made. Stay tuned :)

[@andyashby9588]

Awesome alex!my mum lived in masterton and carterton.i loved the beaches there..i lived in porirua for 8 years.a big ground swell rolls threw titahi bay every springtime😊

[@AlexanderAyling]

I’ll have to check Titahi Bay

[@LozNZ88]

That's Sam Neills Velociraptor claw isn't it? 🤔 haha! My bro is currently building a tiny home on a plot of land he bought up by Gibbs farm (google / check this place out of you haven't and book a tour pronto - amazing sculptures etc) and he put a post up on the community fb page with questions about the surrounding trees and there were soo many friendly replies welcoming him to the area, giving insightful advice and also acknowledging how amazing his tiny home is coming along. He's was taken aback at all the nice comments on his progress. He's almost finished and can't wait to move his little family there 😊

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahaha I love that scene in J Park

[@MrNavarro71]

WOW..I love the drive to the beach and you can just roll up and park right on the beach🏖.. I know about driving on the opposite side of the road but the car side is weird to me..😀

[@AlexanderAyling]

Yeah it takes a bit to get the hang of the other side of the road but driving up and parking on the beach was a trip for me haha

[@sharonp3563]

Ahhh sorry to break it to you. Geese come back to the same place they grew up. So in retrospect.. You're in his paddock 🤣 Thats a beautiful lighthouse and fantastic walk.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahaha

[@GodessSiri]

I think I suggested on Carry's vid last week that you replace some of the roof panels with clear ones, I'm so glad you're thinking about it. I had a car-port with a clear roof and it was fantastic for drying clothes and propping seeds. I agree with you that bale hooks look like something out of a horror movie, my mother tells a story about her Uncle who worked on Napier port in the 60s coming home and telling everyone how his workmate had fallen on one, it went right into the meat of his butt and it was months before he could walk properly again. BTW they sell empty wool bales (fadges) at Mitre 10, you might want to pick up one or two next time you're there, they're fantastic for hauling garden waste and/or holding construction rubbish to get it to the dump, they're tough enough you can re-use them a zillion times.

[@michaelheliotis5279]

Yeah, a fadge or two is indispensable for any serious gardener and probably essential for anyone living on a homestead like this. My mother uses them for green waste when she's harvesting from or cleaning up harakeke bushes, because unlike some people, she takes her rubbish with her rather than leaving a mess for the next person to deal with. I absolutely hate the name 'fadge' though. It makes me shudder every time she says "Hey buzzard, can you pass me the fadge, please?" 🤢

[@aussiebird]

Another great vlog Alex……haven’t lived in NZ for 40+ years and still use the phrase “rattle ya dags”, can take the girl outta NZ but …….

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahaha

[@TheEmzies]

Definitely recommend first planting with manuka. It's fast growing and will give shade and protection to support other plants growing underneath. Some harakeke or other flax will be great down by the pond as they're happy getting wet feet .

[@michaelheliotis5279]

Tūī also like drinking from the harakeke flowers when they're in bloom, and look cute when they're haning upside down to do so. If planting harakeke bushes, though, it's probably best to try and find a local who does raranga (Māori weaving) and would be keen to harvest from and maintain the harakeke. Many people think they're a carefree plant that you can just set and forget, but it's best for the longterm health and viability of the plant if it's periodically harvested from and tended to by someone with the appropriate knowledge, as they were cultivated for centuries to thrive under those circumstances. And it is important to have the appropriate knowledge, because amongst other reasons, an improper cutting technique can damage or even result in the death of the plant, and cutting the wrong blades can stifle its growth or even send it into a death spiral.

[@Nessa___]

So resourceful with the land, I’m here for it ! This is real kiwi living

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Nessa 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@debbykearney2801]

Watching this in Aus on a Saturday morning with a coffee. So peaceful and joy inducing. So jealous of your green pasture.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Debby! Stay tuned for next weekend

[@elahhale9057]

Finally found the dag shed, yayy... Always look forward to the shots of wool-son and lager(sp?). They were less visible this time however it's understandable given the day out and the toil in the garden. I notice there are alot of people offering advice in the comments section. I know you asked for it, but don't let it get to you 😁😁. People mean well. Any way, another great vid. 👍🏻🏆

[@AlexanderAyling]

All good Elah! Appreciate your support. I think you mean Lanka our dog. He’s from Sri Lanka - we rescued him as a puppy there

[@elahhale9057]

@@AlexanderAyling How beautiful, his name is so meaningful. Lanka has a fabulous story all of his own, that's so special. No wonder he is a special little dog. 🐕 🌟 Thank you for sharing that. 😊

[@charmaineczora8312]

It's a hook, used for lifting packed up bails of wool you use one each side.

[@maciii069]

Spent alot of time and Castlepoint in my teenage years back in the 70's.The Castlepoint Racing Club annual beach meeting: where picturesque Castlepoint comes alive to the sound of thundering hooves; keenly cheered along by a large crowd of punters, picnickers and spectators. The beach is going to be perfect for our next on Saturday 19 March 2022

[@AlexanderAyling]

We are planning on checking out the races :)

[@maciii069]

@@AlexanderAylingAwesome. It's a fun day.

[@chasingadeline]

So true about drying clothes here in New Zealand. My in-laws dry other clothes at the fire or outside. Very different than United States

[@AlexanderAyling]

Yup! I prefer air dried anyways but definitely better for the environment and the power bill

[@jaygee5693]

I've heard that having a clothes-line is considered a sign of poverty, or deprivation, in parts of the US. "Lowers the tone of the neigbourhood!" Personally, I'll hang my washing out, even under cover if it's raining, rather than throw it in the drier. Smells fresher, and feels much better. Also, by putting shirts on a hangar, they dry as if they've been ironed.

[@bridiemcloughlin8326]

@@AlexanderAyling they also smell better and fresher (once dried) from the sunshine. but you will find the dryer to be a godsend in the winter!

[@janices6136]

The birds, tui's love the flax flower. If you have room to plant a couple of flax, the green native one. It needs room to grow as they get pretty big. But the tuis love the flowers. Thank you , love your videos . . . Kiwi from Virginia

[@AlexanderAyling]

We have a few but would love more

[@flossyangel1]

Love watching yours and Carrie's Vlog's and watching your garden prep is very inspiring

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Angela! Big update on the garden tomorrow

[@flossyangel1]

@@AlexanderAyling I look forward to your next video as well as Carrie's too. You both are a highlight watch for me. So glad you went to Castlepoint Beach heading there first week in January 2022.

[@lisad8281]

Spent many summers at Castlepoint when I was a teenager (spent a few years living in Martinborough), such a nice beach and chilled out too. The Gap was always a fun place to surf but the other side near the camping ground is good too, especially if you just want to swim.

[@maxinekelly8417]

The ocean will clear your mind body and soul nothing better. Enjoy your break away both of you deserve this. Thanks for sharing just beautiful scenery enjoy. Thanks for sharing ❤️❤️🇦🇺🇦🇺👍👍

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Maxine!

[@terrymarshall484]

Great videos! The tool is a Hay Hook. Usually for moving bales of hay.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Cheers Terry. Welcome to the channel :)

[@clairenevans6877]

My Dad was from Masterton and I’ve never been to that area (Aucklander) so I’m learning a little about what it is like through your videos.

[@AlexanderAyling]

It’s definitely worth visiting! Gorgeous region

[@fionahislop2889]

It's a fadge hook or bale hook. A fadge is the sacking square they put wool into. A kiwi staple when clearing the gardens etc. Buy them from mitre 10 or bunnings. They used to be made of lovely atural sacking but now they are ki d of plastic.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Fiona!! I’ll keep an eye out

[@oliviarowley573]

The music selection 👌 Alex hope you have a bit of six60 pumping when your doing those painting jobs!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Olivia! Yeah I love them!! Wish I could put them in the video

[@smplfylife]

A bit of L.A.B, Nesian Mystiks, Fat Freddy's Drop, Black Seeds and Trinity Roots are pretty damn good too.

[@mexi72]

If you can find them the Tree fuchsia Manuka tree for the bees are cool.

[@sinaihemaloto4243]

😂😂😂after that laundry mishap you owe the Mrs some tlc moments 🥰

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahaha I most certainly do haha

[@commonsense6702]

Sea weed/sea lettuce is good but not overly preferred. Keep your eye out for kelp while down at the beach - gets washed up on the shore or found round the rocky coast line. If you're going to apply it directly to your garden I would mulch it first if it is still pliable, but really limit its use if spreading - salt isn't the best for a garden. I prefer to put the kelp into a barrel with a tap outlet, (dried out or fresh) add water and let it soak/ferment. Just remember the solution is concentrated and needs watering down prior to use - the concentrate goes a long way. After its run its course in the barrel empty it out, let it dry a bit, mulch it and then add to your garden or compost heap, start the process all over again. Can be used as a topical spray, via a watering can or bled into the irrigation. Don't use in direct sunlight as it will probably burn the foliage, best early morning or late afternoon. The iron roof on your "drying shed" generates a lot of radiated heat during the sunny days, to the point it will be too hot to place your hand on. I see no value in replacing some sheets with clearlight other than for the purpose of propagating and even then it is more ideal that seeds receive surround sunlight as opposed to direct over head light - tends to make them spindly. The wool fibers will take quite a while to break down whereas the poop will disappear very quickly once wet, the worm life will increase and something the birds will realize, so be prepared to have the wool strewn about. Add some sheep dag to your compost bin and dig it through using a fork- helps aerate and retains moisture and will sweeten the compost. Just remember if the compost smells offensive it isn't ready, requires turning to assist breakdown. There are many beaches all round NZ that offer up ideal surfing, for safety make sure you're not alone.

[@fillyandlily6830]

yay thank you for the lamb cam

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahah more on the way

[@CaitlinApples]

Love how much te reo you’re coming to use! Just with your pronounciation of kererū, should be said like keh-reh-roo. And remember to roll your r’s! Māori vowels are hard to get your head around, I’m still a very novice learner but growing up in Aotearoa has lended itself well to my learning. Remmbering these sounds helps me- A as in cup E as in egg I as in eat O as in for U as in to And when there is a macron, or a tohutō, the vowel has a long sound. Kia kaha! Keep up the great work, loving the vlogs.

[@lorainkern-smith2226]

An awesome treat for horses is Oddfellows, which are really big peppermints. Horses love these and you'll make friends for life if you give them one. You should be able to get these at the supermarket or local dairy.

[@AlexanderAyling]

I’ll take a look at that haha

[@jaygee5693]

Would the horse-dentist approve?

[@emilyb41]

Definitely take your time! It’s going to take us at least a year to renovate the interior of our new house and then move to the exterior. Enjoy the process! Your land is gorgeous!!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Emily! Big updates coming in next weekend’s video! Stay tuned

[@heidiv5720]

The tool is a bale hook! You stab a small hay bale with it.

[@AlexanderAyling]

I thought it was from a horror movie lol

[@Tom_McMurtry]

Those votes on most beautiful beaches are always about what small percentage get on and vote, as there are really too many to choose from including many hidden ones around only known by a small number of people! Makes exploring or the more worthwhile with so many great beaches out there! Including this one. Fantastic. They span the length of the country from the warmth of the blue green waters of northland, to the wild west coast of the South Island, and the still depths of those round rakiura/stewart island in the deep south. A heap more to explore!

[@AlexanderAyling]

So many beaches to explore! It’s such a gorgeous country and coastline

[@bernicebabe4154]

Kereru love puriri berries. If you haven't puriri on the property it could be a thought. Typically a tree from the north we have them growing in the Nelson-Tasman district.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Bernice! I’ll check that out

[@10barnaby1]

Another great vid, you guys are so industrious it's inspiring. Also, from an Aucklander stuck in lockdown, thanks for the trips out and about, we are living vicariously at the moment! 😎

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!! Hope things get better in Auckland soon!

[@sweetiedarl6802]

I am also living vicariously through their videos whilst stuck in lockdown in Melbourne!

[@jaygee5693]

@@sweetiedarl6802 From level 2 lockdown (virtually no restrictions) in Northland, NZ, stay strong! I really feel for you, and for Aucklanders who have endured so many weeks of level 4, and STILL in level 3. We're all so fortunate to have channels like this to sustain us.

[@datractor]

Definitely check out slipperies surf break at castle point, it can be better than the gap. You can unbolt the two rear seats in the fortuner to give you a lot more room, they don't have occupancy sensors and they're an awful blindspot when they're stored in the clipped up position. You will love the seal colony at Cape Paliser and the Pinnacles where they filmed Lord of the Rings, a must day trip for summer.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks for the tips!!! Been wanting to take the seats out for a while

[@alexabueno3806]

Enjoying this series so much !!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Alexa

[@maxinekelly8417]

Wilson is growing fast cute little lamb ❤️👍🇦🇺❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Lamb cam gets harder each week lol

[@Megan7088-6]

Hey Alex, wow you & Carrie have done heaps to your whare since I was here last, absolutely awesome seeing how far you've come, country living is wonderfully roomy, and yes I laughed with you & Carrie in your moment of plumbing blooper, I did do thee 😯 Aww Nooo! before I "soaked in laughter" 😂 have a fabulous day you two🌞✌🏽

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Meg!! We laughed so hard at ourselves from that moment! Hahah

[@randomgardener3799]

Glad you have found Don Luciano. Great Cafe. Near Castlepoint is Mataikona this could be a good spot for seaweed or if you are near Flat Point.

[@mashalight8699]

Yes absolutely beautiful beach, was there few times ))

[@AlexanderAyling]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@angelap32]

I love this video and I love the fact that you guys are making progress it's so much fun to watch you guys I wish I was there to help you I can't wait for the next episode!❤

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Angela! Stay tuned for next episode

[@angelap32]

@@AlexanderAyling hi hun.. I'm glad you responded I know you always try to with everyone and I love that I can't wait until the next episode but that last one when you guys were in the mudroom trying to install the washer I was like oh my God I responded on that video

[@valeriejensen1505]

These video's are sooo good! Really enjoy watching you and Carrie create your dream homestead on such beautiful land.....

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Valerie!!

[@MeanderingMeagan4]

I think this is a normal experience buying any new (old) house. I was at home depot every weekend for the first month or so...now that it's liveable, the trips are way fewer and far between. Just have my list of things to do before winter!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahah we are at the hardware shop every other day!

[@lanipeiahallett6285]

Wool fadges would be really handy for uz you can purchase them from mega miter 10 or bunnings makes homestead life a little easy nga mihi🙂

[@ThaliaCampbellJennings]

You're living where I grew up! Such a gorgeous place ❤️ nice video ✨💯

[@AlexanderAyling]

It’s a beautiful spot to live! 🙏🏼

[@stevie_M]

A great video, you need to slow down work on the house, be a New Zealander take your time guys.cheers Stevie.

[@AlexanderAyling]

We’re balancing it all but would like to get major projects finished in a timely manner 👍🏽

[@classicjonesy]

Castle Point! we have a beach house that overlooks the gap! it is fab! little tip from a local go to the gap at night and shine your beams (car lights) into the water and you'll see fish jumping around in the lagoon.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Wow!!! What a magical spot for a bach!

[@classicjonesy]

@@AlexanderAyling we were also part of the community project to put lights on the light house :)

[@lisapatterson1191]

Great video! You guys are doing so well - very inspiring!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Lisa!

[@michaelhohaia1651]

Pō check under holding pens Alex: Paradise.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Michael! Stay tuned for next video!

[@M_Ravinerakhalgot]

I'm still wearing flip-flops on sandals and its oct where I live and I wear them for as long as possible every year

[@AlexanderAyling]

The best way to go!

[@M_Ravinerakhalgot]

@@AlexanderAyling yup I love it and thats how I do it I mean there is no snow sooooooooo might as well

[@sharynw6640]

Another enjoyable video to watch Alex. Nga mihi

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sharyn!

[@cadifan]

Yeah that clear corrugated roofing comes in the same size as corrugated steel roofing so a swap out should be easy. And sunlight is much better for drying laundry.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks David! I’ll just make another (everyday) trip down to the hardware store lol

[@cadifan]

@@AlexanderAyling I'm just waiting for the video where you'll say "So... we're going to buy a trailer..." ha ha

[@geecee1288]

Yes, a good trailer is an absolute must, take it on your adventures then you can load up with all sorts of things you find, as my grandpa used to do and a rotary washing line too, it's painful seeing washing hanging lifeless in a shed when it should be out flapping in the wind and sun. In saying that, really enjoying your videos and seeing the property come to life.

[@nannajaysadventures]

Not sure if you have this tree in your yard, but as a child I grew up with a loquat tree outside my house. I used to sit and eat the fruit like it was going out of fashion 🤣 ... something to consider for a fruit tree, they are lovely

[@AlexanderAyling]

Those are so yummy!

[@heneriatapoutu4536]

I am pretty sure that you just picked up clean wool. Dags are hard clumps of sheep poop. I hope you checked in with the neighbor because just looking at what you were collecting made me think you picked up the wrong stuff. Edit: I worked in the shearing sheds and the wool was WAY TOO CLEAN to be dags. Dags are dangling stands of poop. You know it when you see you and that wool you picked up was fresh I'm sure

[@lynnerussell1647]

I cant tell you what that tool in the woolshed is called but they use it to grab bales of wool to move them around. Loving your progress and your showing of our lovely Wairarapa. I hope you love it as I do

[@njaquiery8852]

Loving the videos! Keeping me inspired in my own garden. Definitely fantastic to use what's easy available. Thanks 😊

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! Stay tuned for next weekend!

[@francescathomas3502]

Every kiwi calls those things on your feet JANDALS!!! We Kiwis do NOT say yeast for Yess. Just like you say Com-post when Kiwis say Com POST (as in postulate - not the post office) - And lastly - how long do the dags stay on the garden beds? Do they get removed or do they just become part of the soil/fertilizer/mulch etc?

[@damonmorris5874]

Thanks Alex for showing us the region and you and Carrie’s property is beautiful👍Can’t wait for the upcoming videos.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you for coming along Damon 🙏🏼

[@BucketListTravellers]

Your lamb just keeps getting cuter and cuter! ☺️

[@AlexanderAyling]

He’s a bundle of energy haha

[@effie-Toronto]

Great video Alex nice for you guys to take a break ...that tool is used to move hay bundles

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!!