Gautam Narayan
Owner of Nourish Holistic Nutrition
Among the dairy fields of Waiuku, Gautam Narayan has created a holistic health oasis. And it’s open to all.
Just meeting Gautam is nourishing. From that first moment, it’s clear this is a man in service to those around him.
First, a tastebud-led tour of his food garden. Watched over by handmade bird boxes. Boundaried by a native shelter belt his family has replanted. Hawks spiral above. Taro. Pomegranate. Kawakawa. Riotous herbs cascading out of raised beds, even in the winter chill.
Then, like the vegetables, we’re welcomed into the sleek, well-appointed commercial kitchen inside his spotless home. The warmth of Gautam’s greeting is well-matched with the appetising aroma of freshly made vegetable risotto. He insists it will be his parting gift when we leave. It’s the kind consideration that flows so naturally from him. As deeply personal as it is expertly professional.
Gautam has dedicated his life to nourishing people into health, happiness and well-being. Raised in Bangalore India, he’s worked for more than four decades as an executive chef. His extensive training and demand for his skills spanned the US, Yemen, Thailand, Australia and now here in Franklin. He’s designed the tastes of top end restaurants, hotels and innovative health food outlets.
But a family health crisis steered him deeper. In 2008 Gautam’s niece was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Shocked, he desperately wanted to help.
“All my reading and research led me to believe that food could make a difference,” he explains. “So, I met with a couple of naturopaths, got a rough plan, took three months off work and went and stayed with her. I was her personal chef, carer, chauffeur and shoulder to lean on. I learnt a lot, mainly about the role of food in health and wellbeing. Also, about the kind of support a cancer patient requires.”
Thankfully, she recovered, and Gautam had found his next calling. Based at his home, Nourish Holistic Nutrition is the expression of that vocation. Through it he shares his passion to learn and share. He hosts related events. He offers nutritious and delicious meals for delivery. And, with support from philanthropic friends, extends the kind of support he provided to his niece to others when and where he can.
Importantly, this is not just a business. It’s a holistic community endeavour. Gautam has worked with local schools and complimentary healthcare providers. He’s supported community groups. All to bring his message of wellbeing through food to the region. When he can, he works at a discount or free to ensure the benefits remain accessible to all who want and need them.
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” he smiles. “People here are curious and open- minded. They’re genuinely interested in learning how to take charge of their health. I’ve had clients drive from all over the district to attend workshops or consultations.
“What’s been most heartening is the word-of- mouth support. People recommend me to their friends and family. That kind of trust is priceless. It’s a reflection of the strong community spirit in Franklin. People look out for one another and value local expertise.”
“Moving here is the best decision I made. The community is so welcoming. I’ve had so much help in learning the ropes of rural living. Working here, I find daily inspiration from nature.”
“This is also a region I feel blessed to live in because of the abundance. I can get free range, organic eggs delivered to me. I have access to experts on native vegetation, as well as growers, expert tradespeople and more.”
And so, all too soon, we moved on to our next assignment. But we’re nourished by a packed lunch from a pro. It contains all the care and expertise you could ever hope for in a risotto and zinging side salad.
