The Drawing Room - PTV #26

In the heart of our beautiful Tauranga is the The Drawing Room - a place of relaxation and warmth that represents the Mount in the best possible way ... through its fresh local food and wonderful service.

I love finding places that ooze creativity and this place does it not only with their food but with their atmosphere, eye for the different, and support for the local People. With menus positioned in old retro cookbooks (yes, like Alison Holst!), and art covering the front windows you really feel like you are in for an adventure, something special.

Amazing seafood and mouth watering meat dishes to keep you wanting more, this place is just perfect for a brilliant night out to taste some great contemporary food created by one of the best Kiwi chefs around - Trent Clarke.

Without breaking the bank you have a fantastic meal and leave with the urge to tell as many People as possible about your little find .. hence it is one of our Places To Visit.

So if you don't feel like your usual fish 'n chips or you are passing through and want a taste and feel of Tauranga, then make a booking and check these guys out ...

107 Maunganui Road

Tauranga

p 07 575 0096

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Hallertau Brewbar and Restaurant - PTV #25

Freshly brewed beer flowing straight through to the taps and into your glass has a somewhat refreshing feeling when drinking it ...

Hallertau is one of NZ's first brewbar and restaurants in one and is a must visit.  This place is where you can enjoy the great taste of the Hallertau beer whilst relaxing and enjoying some tasty food from their restaurant.

The Hallertau beer itself is full of flavour and the aroma and colour are grand.  From their first four beers made (appropriately named One, Two, Three and Four) to their Heroic Range, the taste is extremely noticable.  Fruits, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee ... I could go on!

The Restaurant provides an All Day Grazing menu which is great to have whilst exploring the beers.  It also provides lunch and dinner which is full of as many freshly picked ingredients as possible accompanied by freshly made bread from the brewery kitchen and eggs from the roaming brewery chooks (be careful of them when parking!).

Hallertau is tucked away in some of West Auckland's most beautiful scenery and the combination of the serene atmosphere, great beer and food is very inviting.  A Sunday drive out to Riverhead is a good option if wanting to kick back and relax as Hallertau provide live music to accompany your meal and drink.

Do take a visit if you haven't already.  It is a great place to visit.  Paper, scissors, rock for who's driving .... but don't worry ... you will be back for more!


Open 7 Days

Bookings are Best (gets very, very busy around eating times - even on Sundays!)

1171 Coatesville Riverhead Highway

Riverhead

Auckland 0892

p (09) 412 5555

e hoppy@hallertau.co.nz

Diplodocus :: Design Store - PTV #24

Everyone has to start somewhere and for the Young Kiwis studying a Diploma in Art at the Windermere Campus in Tauranga, they have the perfect place to do just that.

The Diplodocus Design Store is a creative project developed and managed by the the students attending the course.  Here they are able to show off their paintings, jewllery and ceramic designs whilst learning.

What I love most, apart from helping out the students by buying their art, is the fact that whatever you buy will probably be a one and only original.  Their art can be anywhere from playful to elegant and consists of art not only painted on canvas, but other materials as well - some extreme creativity going on here!

If you are out and about that way, or even driving through, do go in and check them out.  A great little store and another example of Kiwi Creativity - Choice!

C5, Art Block

Windermere Campus

Tauranga

Wed - Thurs

10am - 3pm

e diplodocus.design@gmail.com

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Elliot Stables - Eating Adventure - PTV #23

Hidden away in Auckland's Elliot Street is an intimate little alley where you can sit anywhere and eat from everywhere.

This place is just fantastic and is a must visit if you want to check out something new or simply to enjoy a space full of character with great food and wine.

From beautiful Spanish cuisine provided by El Faro, or amazing French crepes cooked for you by Torchon French Creperie, to some delicious Latin American dishes and creative Italian cuisine. It's narrow alley provides for a interesting atmosphere which transports you to a place away from all the mayhem and city life.

Also included is our famous Kapiti Cheese, recognised in its own shop called The Kapiti Store.  Top notch dairy products from our very own NZ;  cheese, yoghurt and ice cream!! Yum!

Explore and have some fun ...

39 - 41 Elliot Street

Central Auckland



Escobar Espresso - This is Coffee - PTV #22

You ain't going to find many Cafes owned by People who actually grew up in what could be classifed as the best coffee region in the World ... but lucky for us, Natalia did.

Natalia Escobar grew up in Columbia, enjoying a fresh cup of coffee every morning made from beans grown by her very own family!  Jealous much?  With all her experience from Columbia and other parts of the World, she finally came to reside in NZ, where she and her Partner Nigel started, what may well become, the best coffee bar in NZ.

And, it is all about the coffee.  The taste, the passion - you don't get a coffee with your milk ... but you get milk with your coffee.  The coffee tastes superb, and if you really know your coffee, you will enjoy popping in to get your dose!

A definite Place To Visit if you are a coffee lover.  You can have a bite to eat ... but really, here, it is all about the coffee.

Choice!

483 Richmond Road

Grey Lynn

Auckland

Birkenhead Library - Kiwi Style - PTV #21

I'm a big fan of books.  In fact I really want to get Kiwi kids excited about books.  Every Friday my Grandma picked my bro and I up from school and we headed straight to the library to find some books to read.  It is one routine I terribly miss and one which our current youth don't get to do.

Whether they are picture books or novels, it doesn't really matter, the library is a place that you can explore.  I have a big love for libraries but in recent times have felt that they need some kind of a change so that they invite People in, not shoo them away ... and then the Birkenhead Library was built.

Not only do the People of Birkenhead own, what has to be, the best library in all of Aotearoa, but after Friday's NZ Architecture Awards for 2011, they now have a National Award Winning Library - Choice!

This place is a must visit as it will inspire you and your children to make those trips to the library.  To relax and explore all the books it has to offer, to expand your mind and feel like you are ''reading in a tree'' as some have described it.

It is a absolute beauty and a real Kiwi place to be.  Beautiful wooden touches, harbour scenery, a massive amount of light and one of the most eco friendly buildings you will find.

Go check it out and get excited.  Even if it is just to look at the architecture .... you won't be disappointed!!



Nell Fisher Reserve

Hinemoa Street

Birkenhead

Auckland

p (09) 486 8460

Birkenhead Library

A little hideaway in the Gala Cafe - PTV #20

In the places that you least expect it, there can be something simply superb.

Gala Cafe was something I stumbled upon when looking for somewhere different to try.  I was slightly worried when I couldn't quite find the place, situated in a business complex, but after my experience, I would gladly hunt for it again!  (Google Maps is probably a must here though!)

The Gala has outstanding service accompanied with some great food.  Instead of the usual breakfast and lunch meals found in many a cafe, they take some great combinations and simplify them so that you can enjoy something different in a relaxed environment.

It has a quiet confidence about itself and the food probably boasts this.  From Toasted Brioche with Ricotta and Vanilla Honeycomb or a Bistro Salad comprising of Frisee with Cripsy Pancetta, Croutons, Parmesian and Egg to the 'Mother in Laws' North Inidan Eggs or the Arthur Reubens Madison Ave Deli Sandwich.  The Gala offers some brilliants options that kind of 're-kindles' the view of a cafe with a little difference.

If you feel like a change, visit Gala Cafe and take a break from the norm.



Zone 23, Unit G08

23 Edwin Street

Mt Eden

Auckland

ph: (09) 623 1572

www.galacafe.co.nz/

Coucou! Voulez vous cafe avec moi? - PTV #19

If you are in or around Karori in Wellington, take a break and head to Coucou for a taste of France.

Coucou focuses on French cuisine, but whether you are after a coffee and cake or a three course meal, it doesn't matter because your experience will be a memorable one.

This is a special family owned restaurant run by Jerome Touzard.  Jerome, being the head chef and owner, grew up and trained in France before working in some of the top restaurants around the world.

His aim is to provide high quality and affordable French cuisine for Everyone to experience.  With old favs like Creme Brulee and Gratinee Lyonnaise (tradtional French Onion soup with Gruyere on toast) the menu offers some real traditional French items along with some nice mixed Kiwi / French influenced ones!

A great place to relax.  Definitely pop in if you are close by.

92 Karori Road

Karori

Wellington

Brunch and Lunch, Wednesday to Sunday

9am - 4pm

Dinner, Wednesday to Saturday

6pm onwards

The Fridge - PTV #18

Some of the best coffee you will find in Auckland and definitely THE BEST PIES ... soooo good that you need to be in quick because this little precious in the heart of Kingsland is always packed!!

It is worth making a trip to visit these guys and experience the coffee and gourmet pies.  The pies themselves range from old favs like mince and cheese, to creative ones like Thai Chicken Curry, Beef and Guinness or Moroccan Lamb.

In addition to these famous pies, they also have many homemade goodies on display that will tempt your taste buds; like cakes, sweets, lamingtons, and slices.  Great salads and meals for everyones dietary needs, or quirks, and more space than they had before.  You can't get better than their backyard though as it places you nicely out of sight of the main road and you can get lost in hours of conversation and good food when that sun is shining right!

Check them out ...

507 New North Road

Kingsland

Auckland

Nelson Markets - PTV #17

I'm sure many of you have heard of the Nelson Markets, but if you were to ask a Nelson local for a great Place To Visit, they would tell you to go see the Markets on a Saturday morning!  Hence, this needs to be added!

Situated in Montgomery Square, the Nelson Markets are just superb.  From honey which is made up the road, to the older fella who makes planes, cars and motorbikes from tin cans, you just can't help but check out nearly every stall there!

From kids clothes, paintings, dolls, honey, jewellery and food, to even massage stalls and well being ideas.  The market is absolutely full of creative People sharing their little treasures and wanting to spread a word or two about their creations!

I love having a bratwurst hot dog with a freshly squeezed juice in the middle of the market while watching the hustle and bustle of it all.  It is great fun and a nice way to spend the morning.

If you are in the South Island,  it is definitely worth a visit, along with the rest of sunny Nelson!

Every Saturday, 8am to 1pm,  Montgomery Square.

http://www.nelsonmarket.co.nz/

Two Rooms - PTV #16

This is a great contemporary art gallery situated in Putiki Street, Newton and focuses on mixing it with both Kiwi and International Artists.

The gallery itself, which is a converted warehouse, is very unassuming.  It has a great feel about it and allows the artists to really represent themselves well.

Encouraging and supporting the local artists, Two Rooms also has a Residency Program that is used to provide opportunity for Kiwi or International Artists to work in Auckland for up to three months.

Find out what exhibition is on and go have a peek.  You may be surprised at what you may like!  Exhibitions change all the time, so sign up for the updates.  Lots of fun!

16 Putiki Street

Newton

 Auckland

Tuesday – Friday 11am – 6pm
Saturday 11am – 3pm

wwww.tworooms.co.nz

Sahara Restaurant, Bar and Lounge - Paparoa - PTV #15

If you are travelling through the Brynderwyns and would like a bite to eat, take the State Highway 12 turnoff and head out to Paparoa for some great food, in a relaxed and genuine Kiwi environment.

Paparoa is a little place in the valley that you come across while heading out to the Kaipara Harbour from the mighty Brynderwyns.  It is only a 15 minute drive and boy does it give you a taste of Kiwi - a sprinkle of houses, great People, beautiful landscape and wonderfully quiet!

The Sahara Restaurant occupies the old National Bank of New Zealand building built in 1914.  It is situated across from the Paparoa store and holds its head very high whilst being well looked after by the Locals.

Being so close to the harbour and lush farms, these guys provide some top quality meals because of the freshness of their ingredients.  Being quite remote the menu can also vary a bit and some things may not be available, but that can be a blessing in disguise with these guys as their passion for food means they can whip up something brilliant in no time at all.

The service is top notch and they are very welcoming and worth a visit some time on your travels.  Maybe some of the best chicken you have eaten in ages!

Vist their website for information on opening hours and booking contacts.  If you can spend an arvo here it will be well worthwhile.

Eat Drink Chill



http://www.eatdrinkchill.co.nz/

Paparoa Store

Check out the Paparoa website  - http://www.paparoa.org.nz/

Sri Mahkota - a taste of Malaysia - PTV - #14

Whether you have tried Malaysian or not, this place will beam you all the way to Malaysia and back with its fantastic display of Malaysian cuisine.

I was taken here by a friend of mine on a weekday for lunch, and after arriving right on noon and being seated, the place filled up within 10 minutes and a queue was being quietly created - so a booking here is a good idea.

Ordering a number of dishes to choose from and share between yourselves, you won't be disappointed whether you try something new or something you have had before somewhere else .. this place will raise the bar.  With their fantastic colours and flavours and an underestimated look, for around forty bucks you can feed four of you with a curry, veges, meat and seafood dish.  Unbelievable value!

Make a booking if you want to check out some great Malaysian cuisine ...

164 Great South Road

(Cnr Great South and Market Road)

Remuera

ph 09 520 2998

Monterey House - PTV #13

A secluded and beautiful place to visit for any special occasion ...

Situated between Ngatimoti and Motueka Valley, this is a seasonal restaurant that has spectacular food within a stunning environment.

Originally a cafe and club house (for a golf course) it is now a Tea House and Restaurant.  The food is of an extremely high standard and the decor of flowers inside and around the deck create a delightful ambiance.

The staff have smiles on their faces, but don't overcrowd you, and the wine list is right up with the play showing off some beautiful NZ wines.  You need to be prepared to have three courses here as you will want to spend quite a bit of time enjoying the atmosphere and scenery!!!

About a 50 minute drive from Nelson.  A must Place To Visit.  You won't be disappointed!

Orinoco Valley RD1

Motueka

ph (03) 526 8267

http://www.montereyhouse.co.nz/



Wild Wheat - PTV #12

If you like your bread and all the different kinds, then you may very well need to pop into Wild Wheat and take a look at their speciality breads.

These guys specialise in european style artisan breads and they use no additives or preservatives ... yay!

From your Ciabatta to Focaccia, Croissants to Brioche (my fav), a range of different sourdoughs and even some flavoured loaves, it is worth trying them if you haven't before and see whether any of them will tickle your fancy!

They also sell some great Bagels and Turkish Bread that compliment a coffee ... which you can get from next door!

Check them out ...

811 Mt Eden Road

Mt Eden

Auckland

http://www.wildwheat.co.nz/

(check the web for their other shops in Takas, Belmont and Howick)

Brick Bay Winery - PTV #11

This place is not just about the wine but about supporting NZ art.

First, the wine itself is top notch.  Great tasting varieties very smooth on the palate.  Wine tasting here is a lot of fun and the food that goes with it is absolutely fantastic.  If you can sort yourself out a box of their Pharos 2006, you won't be disappointed!

Second, and the great thing about this winery, is that it has a sculpture trail that yourselves and the family can go on.  The sculptures are all very smartly placed along the walk, which first is a worn out trail, and then through some beautiful NZ 'bush' with ferns and the likes.

It is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon.  The staff are great and the Glass House that you can sit in is a great piece of architecture.

Check them out, about an hour out of Auckland.  Very much worth the visit :-)

Arabella Lane

Snells Beach

Warkworth

09 425 4690

http://www.brickbay.co.nz/

the poi room - PTV #10

I just love this place - a great celebration of Kiwi art and design, this place will teach you a thing or two about what is Kiwi, or remind you all of the icons you have grown up with in being a Kiwi!!

Situated in Osborne Street in Newmarket, the poi room has a range of kiwi items from t-shirts, ceramics, paintings, keyrings, jewellery and more.

It is a pretty cool place to visit to see what some of our artists have come up with as well, and you will be pleasantly surprised with what you find!

There is some awesome stuff in here and whether or not you want to spend a little or a lot, you will no doubt find something.

Check them out ... with or without your wallet ...

17 Osborne Street

Newmarket

Auckland



http://www.thepoiroom.co.nz/

Chapter - PTV #9

Chapter is one of the very few book cafes we have in NZ and it's also a loose tea leaf house (actully the first that was established in Auckland).

You may not be one for tea, but this place is worth a visit regardless, as it amazing to see so many different types of tea there are.

If you do like your teas then you will be more than at home here with teas ranging from traditional black, flavoured greens, fruit and herbal infused and even ones they call Oolong and Pu Erh teas - there will definitely be teas you may not have heard of!

There a small sachets you can purchase to try different types, but because they are loose leaf, you are not restricted to a packet so you can try however many you like.  Prices are per 100g.

It is quite a lot of fun to try a new tea and then scan over the books that they have there.  Specialising in the romance fiction genre, you will find some great reads amongst many you have not heard of before.  They do however also sell books of other genres, though not quite as many, but I did walk away with the latest copy of Jodi Picoult's series.

If you feel like a walk around the shops and having your own afternoon of 'high tea' then check these guys out.  Staff are great and they will help you in finding a tea you may like to try.

442 Mt Eden Road

 Mt Eden

Auckland

http://www.chapter.co.nz/

Lupton Lodge - PTV #8

A romantic weekend away, bed and breakfast, or a place to relax with the littlies ...

Lupton Lodge is tucked away in between some beautiful scenery up north in Ngunguru (out of Whangarei towards Tutukaka).  It has beautiful gardens and orchard, a swimming pool and a guest room (containing books and a pool table), which totally help you unwind with or without the kids.

Packages are the best deal here, and the one we had experience with had champagne on arrival and a great three course meal at night ... I think it was the romantic package!  There are many options to choose from and they do their best to cater for everyones needs. 

Each room in the house has a theme and you can choose whichever you please.  The owners assist you wherever needed but give you a huge amount of space to enjoy your stay and relax to your hearts content.

Next time you want to get out of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquility but not be too far from civilisation, then give these guys a buzz and they'll sort you out no probs.

http://www.luptonlodge.co.nz/

555 Ngunguru Road

Glenbervie

Whangarei

09 437 2989

City Designers Market - PTV #7

Those of you missing the Aotea markets .... never fear ... I found some of the offcuts!!!!

Yes, some of our aspiring clothes designers were smart enough to find a place to set up shop after the Aotea markets were temporarily closed.  A few of them now have their clothes being sold out of a small shop in high street and dubbed themselves the City Designers Markets.

It is more than worth a look with clothes at affordable prices.  You don't have to worry at all about the weather or the crowds as the only people that will be there are those who want to look at clothes!

The designers come from all different backgrounds and have quite different tastes, but you will be surprised at one or two that may just tickle your fancy.

If you do know your Kiwi designers then the following are those which are on display; Flox, Hannah Morgan Harriet Falvey, Misty Lang, Ribbon on a Bombshell.

Corner of High Street and Freyburg Square

(across from the water fountain)

Friday 9am to 6pm

Saturday 10am to 5pm

http://www.citydesignersmarket.co.nz/