'It's OK if I can't do it all, it doesn't make me less of a woman'

Kate Ferdinand on life with a new baby, carving out quality time with husband Rio while caring for five kids, and launching her F&F activewear range

- GEORGIA TREVITT 

Looking at Kate Ferdinand, it’s hard to believe she gave birth just six months ago. Not only does she look incredible, but she’s feeling it, too.

“I’m feeling really good,” the 32-year-old tells OK!. “I’m in my Zen era. I’m not always this chilled, though – it’s because I’m away from my kids!”

Despite her calm energy, Kate’s life has become a lot busier since she and her husband Rio, 45, welcomed their daughter Shae in July. She’s also mum to their three-year-old son Cree, and stepmum to Rio’s children Lorenz, 17, Tate, 15, and Tia, 12.

Shae was born via a planned C-section, and Kate’s recovery has been “much easier” this time around, after previously having an emergency C-section with Cree.

“I was easier on myself this time because I’ve been through it,” she explains. “I don’t put as much pressure on myself. I’m not stressed, I’m just going with my body. Whatever my baby needs, I’m going with it. I’m relaxed.”

She certainly seems it, and that’s partly down to the ease with which Shae has settled into the family. “She’s the happiest baby,” says Kate. “She smiles from when she wakes up to when she goes to sleep. She’s a dream.”

Welcoming a new addition is a big adjustment for any family, but Kate says things have gone smoothly so far.

“It’s always a bit of a worry for everyone in the family – even me and Rio. It affects everyone, because having a new baby in the house changes the dynamic,” she says. “But like anything in life, everyone just adapts. You get used to it and you find your space.”