Nicola Amy Hinman

Living in harmony with the seasons has many benefits, and dining at Gatherings is undoubtedly one of them. Long known for its innovative but grounded approach to culinary excellence, this local Canterbury institution keeps evolving in ways that continue to delight our senses.

The Porirua food scene is awash with local artisan makers and innovators putting their neighbourhood on the map.

As a tram rattles down Worcester Boulevard, the driver loves to point out an adorable outdoor set-up known as The Custard Square Bookshop. Tucked into a corner of The Arts Centre, close to Frances Nation Grocer, the miniature bookshop’s cute factor is impossible to ignore.

Known for its great beaches and chilled vibes, Porirua epitomises everything there is to love about a great Kiwi summer. For day trips and summer roadies, Porirua has all the goods.

If you’re feeling grumpy or a little blue, a visit to Mind Your Temper is sure to lighten your mood. Owner and Chief Chocolatier Nel believes chocolate should be fun and life should be too.

Everyone deserves a good lunch, and you’ll get a great one at Zeek’s. Fresh, fast and super tasty is the name of the game. Perfect for a workday grab and eat, a post-gym feed, or a chilled weekend lunch with mates.

In the small foodie haven of Bryndwr lies Christchurch’s very own slice of Japan. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with Irasshaimase, a traditional Japanese welcome, and immediately feel transported to another continent.

Game, set, match! In a sunny spot on Worcester Boulevard, this tennis-themed café with a gram-worthy brunch menu is the new King of the Court. A self-titled ‘house of refreshments’, the crew at Doubles sure know how to serve the goods.

If you’re in Christchurch and seeking an exceptional coffee experience, C4 Coffee should be your primary destination. With a solid 27 years of experience on their side, C4 is the real OG of the Christchurch coffee scene and a pioneer of the specialty coffee movement in Ōtautahi.

Tucked inside the CoCA art gallery building on Gloucester Street, you’ll find the aesthetically pleasing Lux Espresso. A hotspot for central city workers and art lovers alike, their baked goods and mouth-watering salads are typically sold out long before lunchtime.

In a stately heritage building with a highly sought-after High Street address, Seagar Design has found its perfect Christchurch home.

Getting started as a freelance writer can be daunting. There are so many moving pieces to think about, such as: Who should I pitch to? What should I write about? How much should I charge?

For the discerning modern traveller, The Mayfair is a rare and precious find in the typically heritage-focused city of Christchurch. Here you’ll discover a new form of luxury that is relaxed, welcoming and unpretentious.

In the thriving Christchurch neighbourhood of Cashmere, Foxglove Florist has carved out a perfect niche for itself amongst a supportive community of bespoke small businesses.

Have you seen other adventure travelers raving about the amazing hikes in NZ South Island? Feeling a little bit jealous?
It’s time to get excited!