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Born in post-war England, Jane Chetwynd grew up among extended family in Simonburn, a tiny village close to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland. At age 11 she moved to Perth, Western Australia where she stayed through University. She completed her PhD in London, fell in love with Christchurch and moved there to begin a career in health research, teaching and administration that culminated in her appointment as Professor of Public Health and Head of Department at the Christchurch School of Medicine. At age 50 Jane gave up work to live full-time at Cloud Farm high on Banks Peninsula, a home she now shares with Heather, two Tibetan terriers and two cats. Her many involvements with the local Akaroa community include conservation, Scottish country dancing and the performing arts.
Cloud Farm is an eco-friendly house relying on solar power, spring water and a composting toilet. At 2000 feet above sea level, fruit and vegetables are difficult to grow and winter snows can cut off the farm for days, but the views and the clarity of the air make up for it. The property, which is laced with tracks, is given over to protecting and regenerating native bush. Jane and Heather share Cloud Farm with others by offering guided walks, concerts in their outside amphitheatre and extreme sites for weddings or other celebrations.