Couple Turns Rafting Adventure into Lifelong Journey Together

Yoga and meditation teacher Kate McLeay, 58, and her husband Cam McLeay, 63, have transformed their shared passion for adventure into a thriving business and family life. After 23 years of operating a guiding company across six countries, including a memorable experience guiding Prince William, the couple now runs private safaris in Uganda and wellness retreats in New Zealand’s picturesque Hawke’s Bay.

Their journey began in 1990 when Cam, a former banker turned raft guide, met Kate during a rafting trip in Nepal. At the time, Kate was in a relationship, but after they reconnected in London, their romance blossomed. They established their guiding business in 1992 while back in New Zealand. Cam’s unconventional proposal while mountain biking near Motueka involved a beer tab, leading to Kate’s lighthearted acceptance of “I suppose so.”

Building a Life Together

The couple has three children: sons Archer, 27, and Xander, 19, and daughter Arabella, 25. They have lived in various countries, embarking on numerous adventures, including a decade-long stay in Uganda. When faced with the choice of shutting down their Uganda business or moving there, Kate suggested they all go, which led to a family relocation.

Cam shared, “One of the things I love most about Kate is that she’s always up for an adventure.” Despite her reluctance for some of Cam’s more extreme sports, she has consistently supported their bold choices. After a serious surfing accident last year where Cam broke his back and neck, he demonstrated his tenacity by sailing to Tonga just days later, much to Kate’s dismay.

Kate, originally from Australia, grew up in a navy family, which involved frequent relocations. She moved to London in 1989 for her overseas experience and eventually ended her previous relationship upon reconnecting with Cam. Their shared love for travel formed the foundation of their life together.

A Partnership of Passion and Purpose

The couple’s guiding business has taken them across continents—from the Zambezi River to the Amazon, operating in countries like Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe, Ecuador, and Turkey. For the past five years, they have shifted focus towards wellness, running retreats that combine yoga, meditation, and personal growth.

Kate emphasized the importance of their shared values, stating, “We have an enormous capacity for people and adventures.” Cam’s relentless enthusiasm for life complements Kate’s detail-oriented nature, even when it drives him a bit “nuts.” Their mutual commitment to well-being extends beyond their business; they volunteer to teach yoga in diverse communities.

Cam’s stubbornness sometimes leads him to take risks, as seen in his sailing decision post-injury. Kate expressed her concerns, but their relationship thrives on mutual respect and understanding. They navigate challenges together, often asking themselves, “What would love do?”—a mantra that guides their relationship.

Their story showcases how love and adventure can intertwine to create a fulfilling life together, inspiring others to embrace the unknown and find joy in shared experiences.