#5

 

August 29th, 2024

Hawea, New Zealand

Florine

 

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I first met Florine on a cloudy Thursday afternoon. I drove to Hawea and parked next to her house. As soon as she saw me, she waved enthusiastically. Although Florine had a busy day with new clients, she was excited to finally meet.

 

As we started talking, I quickly noticed Florine’s effortless charm and warmth -a true reflection of French elegance. I had the pleasure of meeting her along with her “Chéri,” as she affectionately calls him. Together, they built their lovely home two years ago in Hawea, overlooking the majestic mountains shrouded in mist after a recent rain. The setting was perfect for capturing some photographs.

 

Florine’s story is a true love story that warmed my heart:

 

Eight years ago, at 22, Florine traveled to New Zealand with her brother. They began their journey in Auckland, where they bought an overpriced van and traveled for a month. When her brother had to leave, Florine found herself alone in Christchurch. On that day, she felt a strong intuition: “What’s next? North or South?” Her heart led her south to Wānaka. There, she found a job and was welcomed warmly by the local community. She parked her van at the campsite in town, and it wasn’t long before her future partner -Mike- noticed her:  “You see that girl? I’m going to marry her one day,” he said to his friend. A memory Florine recalls with a radiant smile.

 

Fast forward eight years, and Florine and Mike are happily together. Since arriving in New Zealand, Florine’s English has improved remarkably through conversations with her partner and friends, mainly. Her confidence has even led her to start her own business, “Green Garden Care,” proudly showcased on her work sweatshirt. She launched her gardening business a month ago and enjoys hearing clients exclaim, “Wow, I did not know my garden could look so FA-BU-LOUS!” She takes great joy in nurturing and taking care of gardens. Why plants? I asked. “Plants are easy, compared to people”, she chuckled. 

 

For now, Hawea is their home. Florine appreciates the tranquility of the area. She has made good friends through fitness classes and is training for the Queenstown semi-marathon in November. She enjoys barbecues with neighbors and friends, a popular tradition in the community. While she misses French cuisine, she enjoys using her beautiful kitchen to prepare her favorite French dishes, including “Bouchée à la Reine.” 

 

I wish Florine all the best for her business and her life here in Hawea.