Feature article
A concussion upended her city life. Now she’s rebuilding a forgotten bush bach, and herself
A Dutch expat rebuilding a tiny Waitākere bach says nature helped heal her after a devastating concussion.
AI summary
Dutch expat Marinella van den Hoven found healing from a severe concussion by moving from Amsterdam to the Waitākere Ranges. She and her partner are renovating a neglected 1940s bach, doing much of the work themselves to restore its character on a budget.
The move was a conscious choice to escape a busy city life for a calmer, nature-filled environment essential for her recovery. Their goal is to create a personal "cosy cocoon" focused on well-being, not resale value.
Marinella and Bronson are doing most of the grunt work themselves. Photo: Marinella van den Hoven
Marinella van den Hoven at home in the Waitakere cottage she is renovating with her partner Bronson Wilson. Photo: Marinella van den Hoven
The cottage is surrounded by garden and native bush. Photo: Marinella van den Hoven
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