Welcome

The Dream Maker was born from a beautiful string of unexpected love stories, including my own. My name is Terri Everett, and my love affair with New Zealand began in 1995 when my husband Jim and I visited from England as newlyweds. Like so many before us, we were completely captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, vast canvases of natural beauty, remarkable wildlife, and a sense of freedom that is hard to describe but impossible to forget. We didn’t just fall in love with the country; we followed our hearts and made it home, emigrating with our two sons, Peter and Chris. Soon after, we launched a scenic boat charter business, “Sealimousines”, and settled in the charming township of Motueka in the Tasman District, a welcoming community perfectly positioned as the gateway to three spectacular and diverse national parks: Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes, and Kahurangi. Surrounded by extraordinary scenery, hidden coves, and private farmland backdrops, our lives unfolded in ways I could never have predicted. (Department of Conservation permit holders from 2009–2023.)

The next chapter of my story began with a chance encounter with a beautiful young couple from the USA who saw something in me I hadn’t yet recognised in myself. They inspired me to step away from being a deckhand and into the world of event planning. Not long after, another wonderful couple, this time a same-sex couple, encouraged me to take the next leap and become a New Zealand Registered Celebrant. Looking back now, it feels as though this path quietly chose me.

Today, wind fast forward, after many celebrations created, we are the proud custodians of a breathtaking mountain property with sweeping sea views on Tākaka Hill, lovingly known as “Hidden Valley Farm”. Here, we run a small farm animal sanctuary for displaced lifestyle animals, hosting farm-style holidays and workshops, and create intimate, deeply personal events. Our life is a rich tapestry of adventure, connection, nature, and celebration, full, vibrant, and wonderfully unconventional. There is very little room for ordinary herr, and that is exactly how we love it. It is from this place, both literally and figuratively, that “The Dream Maker” continues to grow, helping couples craft meaningful, heartfelt celebrations in one of the most beautiful and diverse corners of the world.