Journellement

For my birthday I was lucky enough to travel down to Napier for a long weekend. It was a place I had been hoping to spend more time exploring and this provided the perfect opportunity.

The weather was rainy and grey - but amidst the art deco festivities (it just happened to be the winter art deco weekend) we went horse riding, wine tasting, swam in the hot pools and relaxed in the most beautiful cottage I have ever stayed in. 

William Colenso was the first person to settle in Napier and he lived in this very cottage while an adjoining homestead was built for his family. It is high up on Bluff Hill with views out to Te Mata Peak and out to the Pacific Ocean. Peaceful and luxurious in the middle of a stormy winter. Thank you to Katie for making it so enjoyable.

www.colensocottage.co.nz

Nothing compares to a cold glass of Sapporo. Japanese beer is right up there with my favourite beverages of all time.

I wasn’t sure what to make of this - ordered the fejoa + icecream dessert but wasn’t expecting it to be deep fried!

We just made it to the top of the hill before the clouds rolled in. Champagne sunset looking out off the coast.

Mysterious objects hiding in the roof….

I have been fortunate enough to travel around the country with work over the last few months and now have a new found enthusiasm for travelling during autumn. Sunny afternoons and crisp mornings, beautiful textures and rich warm colours. Now need to work ‘living in the South Island’ into the life plan.

In other exciting news, I am now a graduate and in full time employment. Once I settle into the corporate routine I will endeavour to post less sporadically and more frequently x

Some notable dishes of late.

Fried Haloumi with Pine Nuts, Raisins, Chilli, Lemon, Mint - The Boat Shed

Fresh Fejoas - Mum and Dad’s House

Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil and Buffalo Mozzarella - Domain Ayr

Pistachio and Cranberry Nougat - Vudu Cafe

Wonder breakfast made by my beautiful friend Justine.

Ripe Strawberry Cupcakes - Petal

North to South

and everything in between.

High Tea at the Langham to celebrate graduation.

Opera cake, chocolate mud cake and brandied cherries.

A few snapshots of summer in the top of the North Island. 

So lucky to have paradise as my homeland.