Welcome to Explore with Me
Kia ora, I’m Mary — a place-based storyteller crafting children’s books that celebrate the landscapes, communities, and hidden treasures of our regions.
Through rhythm, rhyme, and adventure, my books invite tamariki and their whānau to explore, notice, and connect with the world around them. From braided rivers to starry skies, farmland to vibrant townships, each story is a celebration of the places we love — and a gentle nudge to get outside and explore.
These stories do more than entertain — they encourage literacy, spark curiosity, and nurture pride in our local communities.
Just as importantly, they are a way of giving back. Each Explore with Me book supports local causes, with proceeds helping organisations such as Kai for Kids and Te Manahuna Aoraki Project. It’s my small way of saying thank you to the places and people that inspire these stories — helping care for our communities, landscapes, and wildlife so the next generation can explore and love them too.
Find Explore with Me Mid Canterbury in these selected stores
Paper Plus Ashburton
Ashburton Art Gallery & Museum
Grandpa's Toys Geraldine
Ruralco Stores: Ashburton, Methven & Rakaia
Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa, Methven
Farmhouse Design & Decor, Methven
Trott's Garden, Ashburton
The Staveley Store, Staveley
With Thanks to our Mid Canterbury Sponsors
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And our Mackenzie Country Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
About the Author
I’m Mary Blain, a place-based storyteller capturing the beauty, adventure, and heart of Aotearoa’s regions through children’s books. I live on a cropping farm in Mid Canterbury with my husband, Steve, and our two busy boys, Benji and Chester.
When I’m not writing, you’ll likely find me trail running, reading, exploring, or heading off on adventures around New Zealand with my whānau. My first Explore with Me book launched in October 2025 and has since raised $5,000 for Mid Canterbury charity Kai for Kids.
Through my books, I hope to inspire young readers to explore, notice, and feel proud of their own backyard — while celebrating the communities and landscapes that make each region so special.
I’m so grateful to everyone — little readers and big supporters alike — who have been part of the journey so far.
