We make emergency preparedness simple

Let’s face it — most of us mean to be prepared, but never really get around to it.

Hi, I’m Ben. When we moved into our first home and welcomed our eldest boy, Liam, the “what ifs” started creeping in. If an emergency or natural disaster happened, could we stay home and look after ourselves?

We quickly realised the answer was no. We didn’t have enough water, had no way to cook if the power went out, and certainly didn’t have enough non-perishable food to last three days. So we did what most people do — bought bottled water and shelf-stable staples like rice and canned goods.

Then came the maintenance. Different expiry dates, storage requirements, and the fact that most canned food only lasts about a year. Even what we stored often needed boiling or proper cooking — not ideal in a real emergency.

That frustration sparked the first idea of Shelter In Place: a kit that didn’t need constant maintenance, had the right nutritional balance, and was ready to go when you needed it.

We explored freeze-dried and dehydrated foods. We wanted real, nutritious, healthy food — fruit, veges, and pantry staples you’d actually want on hand but might not be able to restock in an emergency. Freeze-dried food is pretty amazing — lightweight, long‑lasting, nutrient-packed, and super easy to use: just add water. Working with a nutritionist, we developed a 7-day meal plan to cover daily nutritional needs.

After lots of testing — family camping trips, friends and relatives as guinea pigs — the products you see online today were born: ready-made or build-your-own kits, practical, reliable, and easy to use.

For people who know a lot about preparedness, we wanted to make it simple for every Kiwi. We also hate waste — especially in emergencies when resources matter most. That’s why our kits can be enjoyed as-is, or used with what you already have at home — freezer food in a power cut, or pantry staples you’ve already got.

We’re not here to scare anyone. We want preparedness to feel easy, practical, and part of everyday life — like a rainy-day pantry, ready whenever life throws a curveball.

Thanks for being here.
Ben & Frances