Our Philosophy - One family's personal perspective

Amidst 12 acres of natural bush at Mitchells on the shores of Lake Brunner on the lush West Coast of New Zealand, Lawrence Heath and his family have built a traditional 'kiwi bach' (holiday home) for his family. And it's where his heart truly is. Far from the frenetic pace of city life, here there is no reticulated water, no electricity, no gas and no sewage facilities.

However that has done little to dampen Lawrence's commitment and enthusiasm to embrace a more natural existence. In genuine kiwi fashion, they have harnessed the power and potential of the abundant natural resources to provide for the demands of daily life.

They have constructed a combination of solar, wind and hydro-electric energy generation systems, and exclusively burns carbon neutral wood for heating and cooking purposes. Mindful of the carbon footprint necessary to travel to and from this beautifully isolated spot, they are also investigating the viability of utilising alternative bio fuels in his 4WD vehicle.

"This whole process has made us so much more aware of our local natural resources and creative ways in which to harness them. Necessity breeds invention, and I am continually learning the practicalities of 'getting back to nature' on a very personal level.

I view this project as an opportunity to harmonise with the world without compromising the environment. The deeper I and my family become immersed in this unique way of life, the more appreciation we gain of what we wish for the world in the future", he says.