“Merkens includes the wisdom and voices of those she meets along the way. From chefs to divers, kaitiaki to hunters, every person offers up pearls of wisdom about their own journey. I loved reading about mahinga kai and about the tītī harvest, but even more, I loved that Merkens left it to those she met to tell those stories.

Merkens’ enthusiasm, respect and gratitude for the wild, and her sense of curiosity, burst from the pages. As a forager, I found her recipes wonderful, but it was her stories that really popped. It is clear her passion is in sharing local stories, as a means to connect kai, people and place. ”

“In this fascinating “foraging journey across Aotearoa”, Sophie Merkens writes about her wild-food road trip from north to south and season to season. Alongside engaging photos are recipes, stories of hearty meals shared with friends, insights into Māori connections with the whenua, and information about plant-based healing practices. To forage well, suggests Merkens, you need “curiosity, caution, respect and a sense of adventure”.  She encourages reflection on our responsibilities to the land and to the people who cultivate it. Other practical, ethical, cultural and environmental considerations are also outlined. Recipes based on foraged food include appetisers, meat, fish, vegetable dishes, drinks, dressings, and sweet treats – with tips on how, where and when to find essential ingredients. An excellent guide for Aotearoa-based foragers, especially those seeking a deeper connection to our land.’”