In the almost 10 years since Karena and Kasey Bird won MasterChef New Zealand, they have done things most of us could only dream about.
They've self-published two award-winning cookbooks, hosted their own TV show and travelled the world cooking for dignitaries and even a few members of the royal family.
But for the close-knit sisters, any professional accolades pale in comparison to the pride and joy of the arrival of Kasey's son Koaretaia at the end of 2021.
Speaking with the pair before a busy day in the kitchen in Tauranga, it's easy to tell that the bubbly baby boy, who Kasey, 32, shares with her husband Patuara Biel, is the centre of the universe for the Bird whānau.
"My life has changed in the best way possible," enthuses proud mum Kasey. "It has been such a happy time for our family. He's the only grandchild on my side of the family, so he's a very spoiled boy." Karena, 33, gets emotional as she adds, "The amount of joy that he brings to our parents he lights up their life and I feel like they're getting younger because of it. He brings so much happiness to me. I have never loved anybody more. And Kasey is just the most amazing mumit's beautiful."
Since winning MasterChef NZ in 2014, the sisters have only grown closer as they've built their culinary empire. Even now, with the new addition to the family, they agree that Koaretaia is at the centre of all their decisions.
Esta historia es de la edición May 12, 2023 de New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición May 12, 2023 de New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
The perfect GETAWAY
From lengthy airport clinches to party ghosting, Michéle examines goodbyes
Message in a BOTTLE
Kevin makes a discovery in his shed that piques his detective skills
Empowered & thriving! PERFECT AT ANY AGE
Weekly editor Marilynn bravely shares her bold new approach to living her best life at 50 and beyond
Nature goals FIND YOUR GREEN SPACE
From stressed to refreshed! Lifestyle medicine practitioner Dr Jenny Brockis shares the simple steps you should adopt to give your wellbeing a boost
Nature & the city KELLY & MARLEY'S WILD PROJECT
The podcaster’s eyes have been opened to a new way of life
TikTok star Paris 'I'M BRINGING OUR KAI TO THE WORLD
After a tough start to motherhood, the foodie tells how she reclaimed her life
Love and the city! WENDYL'S CHANGE OF HEART
After a decade in the country, she’s given up the good life to return home
New TV star Andy 'I THOUGHT BEIN AN ALL BLACK WAS TOUGH!' Кро
It was a big shift channelling his talent into the hit show Moving Houses, but the sporting legend is a natural
Babies and beyond! INES HEALS BRAD'S HEART
The actor is embracing life with his zero-drama’ partner
Spreading the joy SIR ASHLEY'S KINDNESS CLUB
The Kiwi health legend is taking a jab at teaching kids important life skills