Bryan Innes and his partner Joanna Pearsall were the initiators of NZ's first EcoShow, and to this day continue their interests in the ecological and sustainability realm.
Now based in Turangi at the base of lake Taupo, they work the land at 'Awhi' Farm - the Maori word for embrace, which they are turning into a living example of sustainability and earth systems.
From working with soil, compost and mulch to tasting the sweetness of eating their own home grown organic food, they are truly living in harmony with the land.
Bryan is also experimenting with building homes with local earth materials that are cheap and affordable. Building one's own earth house is far cheaper than the mainstream models; these houses are insulated and warm, plus wooden cordwood housing actually breathes, and is ideal for asthmatics and those with certain allergies.
Bryan is also importing sustainable tools, such as scythes that are as easy and efficient as a petrol or electric weed eater, and better for you ergonomically, plus other tools made of bronze, with quality as good as steel, as bronze does not rust.
Also, following the Precautionary Principle, he is readying their lifestyle for energy decline as the global economic collapse continues to unravel.
Bryan is currently engaging Bernard Lietaer, the Belgian who was the architect of the Euro, who has shifted his allegiance to localized currencies, recognizing that the small micro-monetary systems have far more merit if we are to find a way forward. One example of this is the JAK interest free bank in Sweden.
Bryan is a gentle steadfast soul who is deeply confident about facing the future with our untapped potential for innovation and harmonious community.
www.ecoshow.co.nz