Clarke Gayford, a New Zealand TV host now living in Australia, reflects on what makes a place feel like home after years of moving between Auckland, Boston, Spain, London, and Sydney with his small family.
The Cat That Found Its Home
When Gayford's sister and her family renovated their home, a neighbor offered an empty place to stay. The family left behind their noble cat, with plans to visit daily. But the cat soon wandered down the street and moved into the temporary abode with them. The cat's home, Gayford notes, wasn't anchored by location but by the company of its humans.
Personal Reflections on Home
Gayford has been thinking about that cat while living out of a suitcase. He questions what ties someone to an area where sensory touchstones of familiarity seep deeper, triggering a strong emotional response. Driving through Sydney, his seven-year-old asked about the number of people and houses in the world, leading to thoughts about the decline in people per house—from 4.5 in 1911 to 2.5 today in Australia.
House Relocation in New Zealand
Before leaving New Zealand, Gayford filmed a TV show about couples rescuing and moving old houses. One couple became so attached to their 100-year-old villa that they moved it to a new location near their daughter. This activity of house recycling is unique to Australasia, reflecting a refusal to let anything go to waste.
The Meaning of Home
Gayford concludes that a home is more than a place to sleep. He praises countries with enhanced renters' rights that create stability and community. He highlights the Māori word Tūrangawaewae, meaning 'a place to stand,' which embodies a sense of belonging through kinship and connection. While New Zealand will always be home-home, Gayford looks forward to experiencing this in Australia.
