Noel Edmonds' transformation since relocating to New Zealand is drawing attention—not just for his £15 million River Haven estate but for his authentic and caring personality off-camera. A colleague who worked alongside him at his vineyard on the estate has shared a heartfelt glimpse into the TV star’s true character.
After leaving the UK in 2019 following his exit from I’m A Celebrity, Noel invested in a sprawling property in Ngatimoti, featuring 12 houses, a pub, and a vineyard. These elements are showcased in his upcoming ITV documentary, where viewers see more than just his public persona.
Julie, a UK native living near River Haven, volunteered to help with grape harvesting, an experience captured on film. She described Noel as someone whose kindness is not just performative for the cameras. “He’s just the kind of man who goes out of his way,” she told Express.co.uk. She recounted how Noel stayed attentive to everyone’s wellbeing—handing out water and ice pops, learning names, and engaging warmly with locals at the B**ger Inn, often chatting with people who didn’t even realize he was a celebrity.
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Julie also highlighted Noel’s humility and hands-on approach, noting that despite his status, he wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty during the vineyard work.
Despite some criticism following his purchase of River Haven, Julie strongly defended him, calling his efforts “great” for boosting local tourism. She shared a story about Noel donating $10,000 to a local school struggling financially, underscoring his generosity. When asked to sum up Noel Edmonds in four words, her response was simple yet powerful: “He is so nice.”
Julie also pointed out that Noel’s dry humor, rooted in English banter, can sometimes be misunderstood by Kiwis, who may find his style a bit unusual. “As an immigrant from the UK, I get it, but Kiwis don’t always,” she explained.
Fans can soon watch Noel and his wife Liz connecting with locals, sharing his wellness routine, and revealing quirky tidbits like the golden statue outside his pub and a playful claim that he was “an emperor in a past life.” Noel Edmonds’ Kiwi Adventure is now available to watch on ITVX.