Mother nature
“Now we’re in a new chapter where we have our family and that’s our absolute world”
In the past few weeks, Gemma McCaw has seen more of New Zealand than most of us would in a year. There have been speaking engagements in Tauranga, Taup?, Queenstown and Ashburton, filming in far-flung corners with her rugby legend husband Richie McCaw, and even a whistle-stop trip to the capital, where she made headlines for a powerful address in Parliament on an issue very close to this soon-to-be mum-of-two’s heart: maternal mental health.
Busy is an understatement, but it’s a surprisingly relaxed Gemma who makes time to fit in a chat and photo shoot with Woman magazine. The sports star turned wellness expert admits she can’t remember the last time she spent a full week at home in Christchurch, but with her second baby due in June, she’s determined to make every minute count.
“I know I need to slow down, but it’s that conundrum of fitting in all these amazing opportunities before baby number two comes along,” says the Woman wellness columnist. “Work and travel and all those things are going to get harder with another one in tow, so I’m very conscious of making the most of my time while I have it.”
At eight months pregnant, Gemma’s schedule is intense, especially with her very active toddler in the mix. Two-year-old Charlotte (Lottie) is a blonde, Wiggles-loving bundle of delight, who has brought her parents more joy than they ever could have imagined.
“People say it gets better and better and I didn’t believe them, but it’s so true,” says the 31-year-old mum.
“She’s a real little talker and her little phrases just melt me. I guess it’s that thing of enjoying the simple pleasures and
