Maria R.'s
What to do this weekend
- 11A Place to Build Art ProjectsChristchurch CentralArtists and visionaries from all over Christchurch have come together to make this gap filler an interactive space in which creativity can blossom. This space provides the tools, supplies and atmosphere for artists of all backgrounds and fields to come together and make exactly what they want to make – art.
- 21The ApothecaryWoolstonThe Apothecary is unlike any pharmacy you’ll find at your local mall. Specialising in natural and traditional remedies for modern health, the Apothecary is perfect for those of you who want to try a different method in fitness and health.
- 31Wanderer CollectiveWoolstonThis newly opened clothing boutique is none like any other you would have come across before. Serving as both a showroom and workroom, Wanderer Collective is more than just a clothing boutique, it’s an open art space for young, local and creative designers to create their beautiful pieces right before your very eyes.
- 46Black Estate & Tasting RoomWaiparaThe food at Black Estate is organic, free range and seasonal, so the menu changes frequently. The little serving table in the dining area is unique and perfectly simple. Family owned and run, expect excellent, warm and welcoming service. And the wine? Go try for yourself!
Maria R.'s
Fairtrade Coffee
- 11Ritual Coffee BeansNelsonMarlborough’s only 100% fairtrade and organic roasting company. Find Matt (owner and operator) and his single coffee blend at the Marlborough Farmers Market.
- 28Kush CoffeeNelsonIt’s all about ethical and environmentally friendly business practices at Kush Coffee. They source their beans from organic fairtrade small producers that grow for quality rather than quantity. Enjoy your coffee in a compostable takeaway cup alongside a freshly baked Danish pastry.
- 32Samo CoffeeLytteltonSelling locally roasted coffee by the boys at Lyttelton Coffee Company, Samo’s also offers a great view of the famous harbour
- 412Addington Coffee Co-opAddingtonA quaintly opulent, natural light-filled cafe and roastery that spins Blondie, roasts and peddles their own brand of Fair Trade coffee
- 53C4 CoffeeChristchurch CentralA specialist roastery located in a warehouse near the CBD. Whilst you’re visiting, take a look at the coffee accessories and equipment (commercial and domestic) which will help you master the perfect brew at home
Maria R.'s
Boutique Beer Bars
- 15Darkroom BarChristchurch CentralArguably the experts in craft beer in Christchurch. This place is one of our all time favourite bars
- 25There’s an ever expanding range of boutique beers here. The main beer on tap is Moa
- 36Pomeroy's Old Brewery InnChristchurch CentralEnjoy your boutique beer alongside some fantastic atypical pub fare. This place is a home away from home for the expats from England.
- 44The Mussel InnGolden BayLocated in the heart of the ever popular Golden Bay area in the top of the South Island, this place is worth the two drive from Nelson. There’s a great seafood menu, a live music venue and most importantly a brewery on site. The Captain Cooker Manuka Beer is highly recommended.
- 51Totara Brewing CompanyWakefieldTotara Brewing is New Zealand’s only Hop Farm Brewery. They produce hand crafted beers using only natural ingredients, led by a fifth generation hop grower! Their range of beers include Drover’s Draught, Totara Gold and Ninaksi Green Limited Edition.
Maria R.'s
Best caterers
- 11The Garden Party CollectiveRangioraThe Garden Party Collective is an emerging catering outfit who are producing fresh, simple fare with an emphasis on sourcing local and organic produce wherever they can. Catering for all kinds of events from rustic weddings to the kind of high tea Nana ought to enjoy, their food is imaginatively and whimsically displayed. Tea trolleys may rattle around, hay bale tables might support platters laden with a hearty ploughman’s lunch.
- 21Catering BelleWoolstonNot only is Catering Belle an amazing catering business, it’s a gorgeous (and original) café too. All the food is made on site (sandwiches and sausage rolls included) by the Yorkshire chef. The bread is sold at the Opawa Market on Sundays and on Wednesday it is sushi day. Check out their other great cafe, Belle Curve, on Madras Street
- 31Sauce KitchenChristchurch CentralChristchurch’s 100% free range caterers, we love Sauce Kitchen for the fresh and delicious savouries and sweets.
- 41Kudos Food DesignNelsonNelson caterers Kudos Food Design partners with The Mudcastle to offer you a fantastic and interactive night based on themes such as Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre nights to Medieval parties, Rocky Horror shows and Christmas parties. You name they do it. Guaranteed to be a hilarious night.
- 51The Quest Catering Co is not restricted to Picton. They spread themselves across Blenheim, Picton and the Marlborough Sounds, ensuring the residents there are full and happy. Have a crazy party theme in mind? They’ll match it with the right food and service.
Maria R.'s
Best florists
- 11The Flower ShopRoslynA trip up the hill into the suburb of Roslyn is well worth it to see this florist. Personalized service and value for money is their motto. If you cannot make the journey up the hill, just go online and get shopping!
- 20Wild Poppies QueenstownQueenstownLocated in Queenstown, Wild Poppies also has a store in Auckland, and the two work in harmony with each other to deliver flowers all over the country. These talented florists seem to know exactly what the customer likes in a bouquet, and they deliver greatness every time.
- 31Flowers for every reason. Incredibly bright and colourful arrangements that are eye-catching and classy. They have a free delivery service to the Southland Hospital and currently have bouquets of sunflowers for everyone to enjoy (SUNFLOWERS- it is essentially the happiest looking flower ever!).
- 42Amaryllis For FlowersDunedin CentralLocated in the heart of the city, this florist specializes in wedding flowers and arrangements for corporate events, however they have everything you could imagine under the sun- even skincare and chocolates! Flowers, both fresh and silk, adorn all surfaces of this lush white shop, and the colour of the petals truly pops against its background.
Maria R.'s
Where to buy some togs
- 11Void ClothingDunedin CentralThis store has a whole floor dedicated to bathing suits of all varieties. Mainly bikinis and mainly the label Seafolly, there is something to be found for most age groups. Funky hipster vibes come from the indie music and the old wooden floorboards and is always jam-packed when the new shipment of costumes come in, in preparation for the Summer months.
- 23H & J SmithDunedin CentralA great selection of swimming togs for both men and women, as well as children. Simple and flattering is the majority, however hidden gems of cut-outs, bikinis, and intense floral prints can be found among the racks. Well-priced and good quality, a top place to find the perfect pair of togs for you.
- 31Pumpkin Patch QueenstownQueenstownPumpkin Patch is always a fantastic go-to when you need to get anything for the kids. The Queenstown branch is a two story building in the heart of the CBD and has one of the better collections stocked. At this time of year (summer!), swimmers are essential, and this shop right on the lakefront can give you exactly what you need. You can purchase, dress and then get in the water for a swim (if you are so inclined, the lake really is freezing) all in a matter of 10 minutes!
- 41Raw EnergyInvercargillI know what you are all thinking- Swimsuits? In Invercargill? But bear with me. This independently run clothing store gets in tons of pairs of swimsuits when October hits, in preparation for the Summer rush. Huge amounts of popular name brands, in all different styles and colours, and for both men and women. This is where I always shop for my swimsuits and I don’t think I will ever look back!