Rhubarb, raspberry & ginger strudel braid
A beautifully braided pastry, bursting with tart rhubarb, juicy raspberries and warming ginger, all wrapped in golden puff pastry with a sweet almond crunch. From Nadia Lim’s latest book, it’s an eye-catching dessert or morning-tea treat that’s easier to make than it looks. SERVES 6 to 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: […]
Summer fun
What visions does the word ‘festival’ evoke? Sun. Warmth. Laughter. Flavour. Music. Joy. That’s all to come as the summer festival season in Christchurch kicks off in Hagley Park. Celebrating its fifteenth year, the South Island Wine & Food Festival on Saturday 6 December from 11.30am to 7pm has something for everyone – […]
Charcuterie
Warm weather and a drink and nibble in the sun. Bliss. A grazing platter, or charcuterie board, is the ideal appetiser for relaxing or entertaining. Here’s your guide to the perfect platter – the five key elements to effortlessly assemble and arrange yours. The beauty of platters is that they are fully customisable […]
Pomegranate punch
This quinoa and pomegranate salad recipe is perfect for spring events, Christmas celebrations, and beyond. INGREDIENTS 200g tri-coloured quinoa 75g kale 1/3 cup Pepper & Me Long Lunch Dressing (or balsamic vinaigrette) 2 oranges 1 handful fresh mint 100g pomegranate arils 1 tsp Pepper & Me Man Grind Flakes 100g feta METHOD Boil […]
Season to celebrate: The Old Vicarage
With Christmas and the new year fast approaching, end-of-year work functions are in the planning stage, and finding the perfect place can be a challenge. Specialising in group bookings, The Old Vicarage has been hosting some of Christchurch’s finest companies’ work functions over the past 20 years. Offering a range of private rooms […]
Race day favourite: The Golden Mile
For horse owners, Cup and Show Week is a time of celebration – and one of the biggest moments on any Cantabrian’s calendar. For The Golden Mile Tavern owner Murray Hollamby, Cup and Show Week is a significant event. With gallopers of his own as well as sponsored races in the Motukarara harness […]
Chicken fajitas recipe
Tequila? I don’t even know her! If there’s a cuisine that lends itself to a fun family get-together or an evening of entertaining, think Tex-Mex. These chicken fajitas, followed by the dessert nachos overleaf, make for a memorable yet super easy dinner. Ingredients Serves 2 – preparation 15 minutes – cooking 12 minutes […]
Selwyn’s spring escape: Thirsty Acres
As the excitement of Cup and Show Week takes over Christchurch, consider a serene escape just 30 minutes away in the beautiful Selwyn district. Set against the backdrop of rolling rural landscapes, Thirsty Acres provides the perfect mix of modern hospitality and charm, offering a peaceful retreat from the city buzz. The scenic […]
Head to the hangar: Wigram Brewing Co
Pizza and beer. Burgers and beer. Can you think of a more perfect match? You’ll find these happily marry together at Wigram Brewing Co’s Hangar 57 Fillery and Taproom on Sonter Road. “We have just launched an on-site pizzeria and food trailer that faces out to our courtyard,” says Caroline McGurk co-owner of […]
A bloody good time: Bloody Mary’s at Rydges
One of the city’s premier steakhouses, this central spot is ideal for celebrating, watching the big game, or just enjoying the sunshine. Perfectly positioned in the centre of Christchurch, Bloody Mary’s at Rydges Latimer Hotel has earned a reputation as a chameleon perfect for any event; The restaurant is known as one of […]












