About
I’m Alice — a lifelong food enthusiast, unapologetic cheese lover, and committed vegan. Back in 2004, when I first went vegan, I quickly discovered that while plant-based meals could be delicious, the cheese options were either non-existent or not pleasant. That challenge became an opportunity. In 2006 I founded Angel Food, New Zealand’s leading vegan cheese company, with the aim of making it easier (and tastier) for people to choose plant-based meals more often.
Adopting a vegan diet is one of the most effective personal actions to mitigate climate change — as a doting grandmother I am deeply concerned about the world the next generation is inheriting.
Eating plants also means you’re not contributing to demand for animal products: around the world every day, more than 500 million animals are killed for food. It’s a staggering number.
I worked as a freelance magazine writer for years, which gave me the chance to explore ideas, share stories, and connect with readers in different ways. That background in writing, paired with my years of hands-on experience in the food world, led naturally to my first book, Cheese Matters: to kind people. It’s a blend of heart, humour, and thoughtful reflection for anyone who loves cheese, cares about animals, or is curious about how everyday food choices connect to the bigger picture.
Activism has always been part of my journey. I enjoy a good protest and the sense of solidarity it can bring — but I also know that shouting slogans isn’t always the best way to change hearts and minds. Some protests alienate the very people we hope to reach. That’s why I turned my activist energy to setting up a food business back in 2006. And now it’s why I’ve put that same energy into writing my book.
Our food choices are a sensitive subject. I think that’s because they are an integral part of our personal identity and of the culture, family and community we identify with.
Beyond cheese (though it does take up a lot of my life!), I’m passionate about making vegan living accessible and joyful, not preachy. I care deeply about people, animals, and the environment, and I believe that lasting change comes from connection, compassion, and a bit of creativity.
When I’m not writing or experimenting with new plant-based foods, you might find me wombling (I actually enjoy picking up litter!), reading a crime novel (nothing too explicitly violent, thanks) or at the sewing machine upcycling some charity shop finds (my latest project: turning thrifted men’s checked shirts into cushions for our dining chairs).
