Now she is back in Wānaka living almost rent-free in a container. All 5.04sq m of it.
A woman with the tools and skills, she has not let the cost of living nor a tight rental market put her off finding a home in Wānaka.
The 35-year-old moved back earlier this year and has kitted out an old industrial container where she pays just $50 in rent.
"Choosing to live in a container home here in Wānaka wasn’t just a financial decision, although affordability definitely played a part.
"For me, it’s also tied into my building apprenticeship, my love for small, purposeful spaces and a bigger vision for how I want to live."
After travelling the world working on super yachts, Miss Moulton became accustomed to tiny living spaces, and with minimal belongings, she preferred it.
"I have been fortunate enough to live a life where I haven’t had to pay rent all that much, and enjoy life on the road travelling.
"I’ve spent time figuring out what ‘home’ really means to me.
"I’ve become drawn to the challenge and creativity of making small spaces not just functional, but comfortable and beautiful."
Last year, Miss Moulton converted a chicken coop into a livable space for her, hidden among the bush of Great Barrier Island.
"What I love is [being] able to show people how basic it is to build something like this.
"I have always been about learning new skills, I do find it rewarding."
She also experienced the millionaire lifestyle, making it as far as first mate during her 12 years on yachts between Australia, South East Asia, Europe and the Caribbean.
Landing back in Wānaka, she will be finishing up her building apprenticeship she started in 2020.
Building was more than an occupation to her.
"It’s not just to get a trade under my belt, but because I want to build a solid skillset I can carry through life.
"One day, I hope to create a space of my own where friends, whānau and I can gather, rest and just be.
"It’s about independence, resilience and being able to contribute meaningfully to the people around me."
It was time to settle down and lay down some roots, and Wānaka was the place to do it.
"My people are here, I love the community vibe here and I am familiar with this place.
"It’s the South Island which is where I belong."
Despite subzero temperatures in Wānaka’s frosty mornings, winter would not be so bad, she said.
"It can be pretty fresh, the bed is warm.
"For me, this way of living is about connection, contribution and creativity.
"I wouldn’t have it any other way."
