A Tiny Home, A Big Life: Sue’s Everest XL Journey
It was one of those classic winter days you don’t easily forget—big blue skies, fringed by the bare bones of deciduous trees. The sun streamed through the car windows as marketing expert Nick and Fleur set off, coffees in hand, bound for Ngahinapouri to meet Sue: Retired School administrator, mother, grandmother, and proud owner of a Fox Cabins Everest XL Tiny Home.
It had been six months since we handed over the keys to Sue’s 13.5-metre-long Everest XL, and today’s mission was simple—catch up, see how life was treating her, and take a look at how her tiny home had settled into its new surroundings.
As we pulled into Sue’s driveway, we were greeted by the charm of a character-filled home, framed by old English trees and a sense of spaciousness you can’t fake. The cows over the back fence reminded us that we were firmly in the heart of Waikato dairy country.
Our first glimpse of the Everest was the peak of its gable, just visible behind the garage. Following a concrete path around the shed, we stepped out onto a vast green lawn that rolled effortlessly into the flat expanse of farmland beyond. The view stretched all the way to Mt. Pirongia—a breathtaking backdrop for everyday living.
Sue stepped off the kwila deck that wraps around her Everest, welcoming us warmly. Together, we took in the view, marvelling at how beautifully she had blended her tiny home into the landscape. It wasn’t just a house on wheels anymore—it was home.
This is Sue’s tiny home journey. We invite you to enjoy this window into her life and perhaps find a little inspiration for your own path—just as we did.
What inspired your move to a tiny home, and what was the turning point that made you commit?
“My daughter has 4 acres that lent itself to having a tiny home on it. I’m a widow and when I retired, I had to downsize. The decision was led by the site and having less expense. My grandchildren are on the doorstep and it’s just brilliant.
I also had a few health issues where it became challenging to keep the big house and section maintained—it just needed to happen. It was the most sensible decision.”
Photo: Tiny living, does not always mean tiny kitchen, a spacious kitchen in Sue’s home.
How did you find the process of working with Adam and the Fox Cabins team?
“It was really good because Adam was open to suggestions I made about changes, additions or items I wanted on the Everest. It was no problem and everything fell into place. It was easy to work with the team out there (Raglan). I always felt seen and understood in the process.
Coming out to the Raglan factory where everyone said hello and were friendly, it was just easy.”
Is there anything you think Fox Cabins could improve for future clients?
“Yes, because it’s a Tiny Home, storage is an issue. Things like a coat rack that fits with the home’s style, or built-in picture hooks. Having access to these finishing touches would make life easier.”
What has been the most rewarding part of living tiny?
“My favorite part is that I can go from one end of the house to the other without climbing any stairs. I love the big windows and the simplicity of living compared to a four-bedroom, three-level house.
The rewards are huge: it’s easier, basically maintenance-free, and I’ve been able to customize it. Best of all, I can be here with my daughter and grandchildren, in my own space. My granddaughter comes out in the evenings just to chat, and I’ve got to know her so much better.
Tomorrow I get the grandchildren to school, my granddaughter got dancing and cheerleading, and all of them play football. On the weekend the three children are playing football in three different places. I just come and go from the house, I don’t think about it, it’s comfortable, it’s perfect.”
What challenges have you faced, and how have you adapted?
“Getting rid of my stuff and managing my craft space. I love sewing and doing crafts, and while I could’ve used the mezzanine for storage, I dedicated it to the grandchildren. It’s been my biggest challenge, but I’ve found ways to manage.”
Photo: Sue’s mezzanine, a special place to retreat for her grand children.
How has your tiny home supported your health and wellbeing?
“I’ve lost a lot of stress and anxiety. My home is easy, warm, comfortable, and I feel secure in it. I don’t even use heating in the bedroom—it’s naturally warm.
To me, a healthy home is dry, with good airflow. That’s why the screen doors were so important.”
Do the seasons affect how you live in the space?
“The summer was difficult with no shelter from the sun, and in the winter the rain comes in sideways, so a covered deck would really help. When choosing a site, think about weather exposure—it makes a big difference.”
What’s it like hosting friends and family in a small space?
“They love it. In winter we squish around the lounge, but in summer everyone spills out onto the deck. Living here feels like being on holiday all the time—I grew up with baches and trams, and it brings back that feeling.”
What advice would you give to others considering the move to tiny living?
“You don’t need stuff—that’s the biggest lesson. When my husband died, it took us two years to clear his workshop. I’ve since downsized my own things, and now it’ll be easy for my daughter when the time comes.
Ask yourself:
- What size do you really need?
- What’s your purpose for living tiny?
- Who’s going to live in it?
- What are your expectations for the space?
- Can you cope with getting rid of your excess possessions?
Life is lighter without the clutter.”
Photo: Sue decided to declutter and only bring a handful of special treasures into her new home, pictured above is one of those pieces.
Has downsizing helped you simplify life or find more financial freedom?
“Yes, I’ve sold a home and still have money in the bank to enjoy my grandchildren. I’m going on a trip to Australia next year, and I don’t have to worry about big rates bills, insurance, or maintenance. It’s huge financial freedom.”
Do you feel living in a smaller space has changed your environmental footprint or relationship with nature?
“Yes—it’s freed up time. I don’t have lawns to mow (a little robot does that), and I’m no longer weighed down by possessions. That means I can spend more time outside and with family.”
Photo: The view from Sue’s Everest XL, showing the magnificent Mt. Pirongia