Melanie
Welcome to Barrington On Green, where I have been living the urban homesteading dream in Christchurch since 2012. My mission is to inspire self-sufficiency in the heart of the city, using just 100 square metres of space. Join me in exploring the delights of gardening, where I share practical advice on soil preparation and worm farming. You'll often find me in the glasshouse, nurturing new possibilities, or looking after my lively quails, an integral part of urban farming. As a Yoga Therapist & Yoga Teacher, I love to blend my passion for yoga with innovative space solutions, offering insights into yoga therapy and unique yoga props suitable for homesteaders. Cooking fresh, seasonal produce is a joy I delight in, and I provide easy-to-follow tips that celebrate each harvest. My aim is to help you maintain a thriving garden while being mindful of your budget. Here, I share not only the success stories but also the challenges, reflecting a journey full of learning. The recent years have been challenging, with COVID affecting our well-being and the economy hitting hard. With rising interest rates and living costs, many of us feel the pinch. That’s why returning to simple living, like growing your own food, is so rewarding and essential. It's a tangible way to care for yourself and your finances. Barrington On Green is not just a home but a sanctuary. Despite being on a busy main road, the tranquillity of Barrington Park nearby offers a scenic view and a space where the dogs play and I find calm. This urban retreat is bustling with life, hosting three small businesses, three worm farms, a beehive, four quails, two dogs, two rabbits, two cats, two fish, a glasshouse, and a plant stall right on the roadside. Since purchasing this 1920s bungalow in 2008, the property has transformed remarkably. Previously a rental with parked cars on its lawn, it’s now a thriving urban homestead situated just 4 km from the iconic Christchurch Cathedral Square. Close to a mall and on a convenient bus route, this location offers everything within a short 10-20 minute drive, including the airport. At Barrington On Green, I embody community and creativity, encouraging a self-reliant lifestyle while adapting to modern urban constraints. I invite you to explore this world, where every day is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and find joy in self-sufficiency.
Sign up to our newsletter
From Our Urban Oasis to Your Inbox! 🌸
Discover the joys of city gardening, worm farming wisdom, hydrosol secrets, and more! Our newsletter brings you self-sufficiency inspiration, budget hacks, and tales from our Christchurch homestead – complete with quails, bunnies, and yoga insights! Subscribe now.