I think I need to repeat myself: what a coffee scene here in New Zealand! We were told that there are more than 300 roasters in New Zealand. Although I could not verify the large number, I tend to believe it. However, there are more coffee roasters per capita in New Zealand than anywhere in …
Indeed, there are many good reasons to stay and prolong your stop in Nelson, the beautiful little town in Tasman Bay and eventually a matter of taste; The highest sunshine hours in the south island? The beaches to swim, kajak or run along? The vivid coffee scene in town? The superb pace of life? The …
This time we only stayed for one night in Wellington before heading to the South Island. Yet it wasn’t really by our own choise, rather because we faced again a very busy place and time. Furthermore the weather forecast was definitely better for the South Island (Tasman Bay) than here in Wellington. But it’s only …
It’s a cosy pace in New Plymouth, although shortly before 9 am there are some “nearly hectical” activities sensible; pupils stroll towards schools, cars find their ways to offices and the coffees are wrapped up in business! And that’s my favourite coffee hour: busy, laughing, discussing people all over, the flavour of fresh croissants, omelettes …
Actually we wanted to stay in one of the typical Beach Bach Villas here in New Plymouth, alongside the famous Surf Highway 45. Hence we checked a couple of them, such as the Ahu Ahu Beach Villas in Oakura, the Wai Iti Beach Retreat in Urenui and the Chalets at Okurukuru Winery, but we haven’t …
Our first address was the Old Oak Boutique Hotel in Mangonui, but unfortunately the rooms we were looking for were fully booked, and the last available suite upstairs simply has too low ceilings for my little claustrophobia. Hence we spent our time in Cable Bay at the Doubtless Bay Villas. And I have to say, …
Although Mangonui in Doubtless Bay is a very small village, easily manageable with a nice, tranquil pace, there is a good choice of eating places for dining in or take away. Where to find
Kerikeri is indeed a neat, smart and colourful, little town, hosting New Zealand’s oldest building, the Stone Store, and appeals almost surreal. However, the farmers market, the chocolates, boutique vineyards and cafes are all very, very real and lovely. The wineries are very casual and open and they turn each wine tasting into a pure, …
Our options to choose where to sleep in Kerikeri where quite limited due to the heavy flu I had. Clearly, we needed a fully equiped apartment. And that’s why we have chosen the Kerikeri Homestead Apartment, and it was really comfortable: fully equiped, perfect Wifi, nice surrounding, quiet and peaceful. Where to find
The Kokohuia Lodge is coming very close to my imagination of a romantic hideaway. It’s sitting like a eyrie high above the native bush, allowing great views over the Hokianga harbour. It invites you to sit on the balcony, to listen to the birds and the sounds of the bush or to observe the stars …
I love Ponsonby! It’s one of those neighbourhoods which are hip, cosy, cool, a little stale, modern and fancy. And if you believe it’s easy to make your mind where to dine, forget it! Really, here you are spoilt for choice…more than 100 restaurants, coffees and bars are spread around Ponsonby. Choose between Indian, Thai, …