prairie girl musings

Category: City Guide

Where To Have Lunch In Christchurch’s CBD

Christchurch’s CBD is steadily growing with new businesses popping up on the regular. In fact, it seems like every other day, a new café or restaurant opens in Christchurch! With so many offices moving back into the CBD, there’s plenty of space for growth and many mouths to feed.

If you haven’t been to the CBD in awhile, you may find yourself overwhelmed with all the new gems. These are my six favourite spots to grab lunch (and one new café thrown into the mix!) The majority of these spots are conveniently located on St. Asaph Street.

Grain
19 Southwark Street
Grain Coffee and Eatery is a minimalist’s dream. The stark white walls and high ceilings mean that the coffee and food remain a key focus. Their olive green machine pumps out AllPress coffee and they have both an enticing menu and cabinet food on offer. I recommend trying their grain bowls – filled with fresh veggies, these are filling and oh so tasty.

Thai Box
270 St. Asaph Street
The fresh spring rolls at this lunchtime mainstay are my go-to on busy days. Prepared fresh, they are perfect to grab and go. I’ve also tried the Massaman curry and Pad thai at Thai Box, both are the stuff of dreams!

Steampunk Laboratory
270 St. Asaph Street
Did you know you could get Korean food to go in Christchurch? For a speedy lunch option that’s warm and full of flavour, grab a cup bop at Steampunk. I can’t resist the tofu option.

Engine Coffee Brewers
270 St. Asaph Street
Hidden behind Thai Box on St. Asaph Street, Engine Coffee Brewers has been open only three days. While off to grab spring rolls (see above) I stumbled upon their sign and was intrigued to find a sparse café filled with greenery and some fresh baked goods. The cool thing about Engine is that they know coffee and have made this their priority. Order it black or white and stay a while.

Madam Woo
255 St. Asaph Street
Hailing from Queenstown, Madam Woo has now opened venues across the country. Much to the delight of Cantabrians, Christchurch now has a place to get your Malaysian street food fix. Feast on hawker rolls, sui mai and dumplings, actually try everything on the menu because it’s all amazing. This is the place to go for a long lunch (complemented by a beverage, of course!)

Potsticker Dumpling Bar
144 Lichfield Street (Poplar Lane)
My colleagues and I often enjoy treating ourselves to delicious dumplings from Potsticker on Poplar Lane. With a rotating, seasonal menu, you’re sure to find an option to satisfy your palette. Their dessert dumplings are particularly noteworthy. The good news is they’ve now opened another establishment on Victoria Street, Sister Kong, which serves Hong Kong street eats!

May 17, 2017
Tokyo’s Must-Visit Neighbourhoods: Shibuya

With two and a half days on either side of our two week journey through Japan, we initially stayed in tourist hub, Shibuya at Granbell Hotel. Only steps away from the train station, I loved beginning our travels in Shibuya as it placed us close to key attractions like the Shibuya Crossing, Yoyogi Park and the Hachikō statue. It was also close to a few of the restaurants and cafés I wanted to visit because what trip is complete without a bit of café hopping, am I right? The hotel itself was one of the few boutique properties in a city known for its global, towering chains.

Only a short bike ride from Shibuya is Daikanyama, a quiet local area where you’ll find Tokyo’s (maybe even the world’s) most beautiful bookstore, Tsutaya Books. I was seriously tempted to fill my suitcase with dozens of coffee table books and magazines. Nicknamed, “A Library in the Woods”, the building itself is gorgeous and reminiscent of California-style architecture. I couldn’t help gazing at the people inside as well, all impeccably dressed. Be sure to grab a drink on Log Road, similar to New York’s High Line, you’ll find freestanding bars, stores and cafés. My favourite was Spring Valley Brewery. A particularly local area, Daikanyama manages to feel quiet and community-focused in bustling Shibuya.

My two favourite cafés in the area were Little Nap (pictured) and About Life Coffee Roasters. There’s a whole street of ramen restaurants right across from Shibuya Station, so you really can’t go wrong!

One of the most remarkable things about Shibuya are the buildings’ facades. They are often discreet and perfectly tidy; yielding incredible shops, restaurants and cafés inside. Michelin-starred ramen shops sit beside aged apartment blocks and world-renown cafés (Kafe Mameya, for instance) are hidden deep within tiny alleyways. Shibuya is a labyrinth, an area that would take years to fully experience.

This series reads more like a general guide because Tokyo is best spent wandering and exploring, rather than following a typical tourist agenda.

May 13, 2017
Tokyo’s Must-Visit Neighbourhoods: Harajuku

Shortly after catching the Narita Express to Shibuya Station, I soon realized we would barely scratch Tokyo’s surface. I quickly made the decision to plot out a few key neighbourhoods worth visiting during our short stay. I knew we’d hit a few popular attractions, see beautiful temples and palaces, and spend a lot of time in parks gazing at cherry blossoms. Much to my delight, we managed to time our trip perfectly with sakura season!

With only four days in Tokyo, I knew I’d have to be strategic about where I’d spend my time and Harajuku topped the list! If you’re heading to Tokyo, make sure to spend at least a few hours exploring this vibrant, fashionable district!

During the day, much of Tokyo can feel quite pared back and greige, (beige and grey) but Harajuku is full of colour. There’s so much to take in and I felt like my senses were working overtime! We were lucky to spot a few Harajuku Girls (you know, like the ones from Gwen Stefani’s music videos!) If you’re on the hunt for any piece of clothing that is particularly trendy, Harajuku’s multitude of shops are your best bet! If you’re a makeup lover, Harajuku’s beauty shops are a great place to get inspired and learn about the latest makeup trends. You’ll see packs of school girls stocking up on coloured contacts and hair bows. If you’re visiting Harajuku on a Sunday, get ready for Lolita-land.

I noticed that pastel hair is still all the rage and pink eyeshadow is making a comeback. Platform shoes are preferred as well as lace and full hemlines. Let’s just say, I’m even more tempted to dye my hair lavender now…

You’ll need fuel for all the people-watching and shopping you’ll be doing. Try Tokyo’s best soft serve at Zaku Zaku or a cotton candy bigger than your head at Totti Candy Factory. We tried both and experienced an extreme sugar rush, which could only be counteracted with ramen. As we wandered around Harajuku in a dream-like trance, we even discovered a Cookie Time karaoke bar! All the way from Christchurch to Harajuku, I suppose.

The myriad of crepe stands in Harajuku are works of art. There are dozens upon dozens of stalls, so take your pick. You can order crepes of all variations, strawberry, blueberry, matcha, the list goes on. Some even feature whole slices of cake!

Next up, I’ll be showcasing another favourite Tokyo neighbourhood. Can you guess which one?

April 30, 2017
72 Hours in Melbourne

Melbourne is easy to love and adored by many. It often tops the world’s most liveable city lists, which is unsurprising given it excels in multiple categories and appeals to various demographics. It’s an urbanite’s dream. Based on a grid system, many of the city’s greatest delights are hidden in laneways. The myriad of lanes are ripe for business owners, currently tenanted by independent art galleries, bars, cafés, and boutiques.

This sometimes gritty and always edgy city reminds me of the Toronto I know and love. Melbourne has multiple personalities that each offer worthwhile and unique ways to experience the city. We discovered businesses with complex, multi-purpose identities. Cafés in old warehouses that showcased the art of up and coming artists and boutique hotels with art studios, situated in children’s hospitals.

While Melbourne can’t compete physically with Sydney, looks aren’t everything. Melbourne’s cuisine, culture and art scenes are impressive on a global scale and draw in hoards of tourists and new immigrants year-round. This 72-hour guide merely scratches the surface of what is quickly becoming one of my favourite cities.

STAY: The Larwill Studio

Staying in up and coming North Melbourne was an easy decision. I had read a lot about the vintage shopping and quality cafés in the area and wanted to be based close to Fitzroy. We decided on The Larwill Studio, which is part of the Art Series Hotel Group. The boutique hotel is dedicated to quirky Australian artist, David Larwill and features pops of orange that complement Larwill’s lighthearted pieces. The hotel is located in The Royal Children’s Hospital AND offers art classes and studio space available for booking. Nick and I both agreed that the beds were the comfiest we’ve ever slept in and loved having access to Lekker cruisers to explore the city.

EAT & DRINK:

With three full days in Melbourne, we spent a lot of time eating and drinking. The city delivered on both accounts and we’re already dreaming of returning to venture to all the places we didn’t get a chance to visit. In short, nowhere else does brunch quite like Melbourne!

Fourth Chapter: Found in Prahran, just off Church Street, this delightfully bright café is filled with incredible greenery and mouthwatering dishes. They offer healthy alternatives like açai and cherry bowls and avocado smash with fritters. Their back patio is perfect on a sunny day.

Higher Ground: If you’re after Melbourne’s tastiest and most instagrammable hotcakes, be sure to visit Higher Ground, Top Paddock or The Kettle Black. They are served with fruit, flowers, whipped cream, and maple syrup and you may want to share!

Auction Rooms: I couldn’t get over the gorgeous interior at this North Melbourne café. Swarming with locals when we visited, we waited on one of the church pews outside with a strong coffee and croissant until our table was ready.

Market Lane Coffee: If you’re after high quality brew, you’ve come to the right place. With a handful of locations scattered through Melbourne, the team behind Market Lane is passionate about coffee. The specialty roastery, cafe and reatailer insists on doing one thing and doing it well, which is evident in their espresso, aeropress and pour over options.

Doughboys Doughnuts: Some people have an affinity for macarons, others cupcakes. My obsession is with doughnuts and Doughboys serves up some of Melbourne’s freshest. Visiting with an empty stomach is advisable!

Trippy Taco: Some of the most delicious vegetarian tacos I’ve ever tasted on super cool Gertrude Street.

Chin Chin: Everyone who knows Melbourne will tell you to dine at Chin Chin – listen to them! There’s always a wait, but you can grab a drink downstairs at GoGo Bar (which has my all-time favourite neon sign). As was recommended to us, we tried the Tasting Platter and plate after plate of mouthwatering food soon appeared before us!

Adelphi Hotel: After overindulging at dinner, we ventured to Adelphi Hotel to sample their extensive and elaborate cocktail menu. The intimate bar offers everything one could desire from a hotel bar – moody lighting, strong drinks and attentive service. Both Nick and I were impressed by the creativity and presentation that went into our drinks. I had the Summer G&T, which includes a generous pour of Hendricks gin (yes!), elderflower, cucumber, raspberries, rose syrup and capi tonic! It’s served in a pot hole infuser! I’ve never known someone to love mojitos as much as Nick, so he opted for the Toothpaste mojito, which is as strange as it sounds. After a light brush with mojito toothpaste and toothbrush, light rum, pressed organic mint, clarified lime juice is a delight to the palette.

Naked For Satan: If you’re looking for Melbourne’s best rooftop bar, look no further! This popular Fitzroy spot not only serves up some of the best cocktails and Spanish tapas in the city, it also showcases the Melbourne skyline in all its glory!

KitKat Chocolatory: Make your very own chocolate bar at the world’s only KitKat chocolatory. My friend and local Melburnian, Jess introduced us to this exciting foodie destination, and I was way too excited about crafting my own bar and selecting the packaging. I opted for salted caramel, honeycomb and hibiscus mixed into dark chocolate. YUM!

EXPLORE:

Brighton Beach: Avoid touristy St. Kilda and venture further south to Brighton Beach. Get your photo taken in front of the colourful bathing boxes, which are definitely unique to the area!

Botanic Gardens: I had visited the botanic gardens on my last trip to Melbourne, and insisted we return again this time! During the summer months, be sure to check out the moonlight cinema.

Queen Victoria Market: The market itself is as tacky as you’d expect, but worth visiting for the shops just outside. The pop-up shops rotate throughout the year and Books for Cooks bookstore can inspire even the laziest of chefs (aka me). There’s also a Market Lane location next door, so you can get your caffeine fix.

SHOPS:

I aimed not to spend much money in Melbourne. I’m streamlining my wardrobe and my life because I have a tendency to accumulate clutter. Also, I want to reduce my spending and environmental footprint. That said, there were several shops I couldn’t help poking my head into since Melbourne is, after all, known as a shopping destination!

Aesop: Be sure to visit the mothership whilst in Melbourne. Aesop was established in Melbourne in 1987 with the objective to formulate skin, hair and body care products of the finest quality. They aim to source plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients. Each of their stores is unique, and their employees are always super helpful!

Milk & Sugar: With two locations, this Melbourne shop carries a range of bedspreads, linens, homewares & creative lighting. Perfect for those who are decorating their homes and strive for a minimalist aesthetic.

COS: One of my go-to stores for quality basics with a twist, COS has made its way from Sweden to Australia. The Melbourne store is relatively small, but still features a decent range of their current collection.

Saturdays Surf NYC: Selling menswear and coffee, this New York institution is worth visiting if you have a thing for good design and attractive surfers.

Tell me, what are your must-visit spots in Melbourne?

February 9, 2017
A Quick Trip To Queenstown

As New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown is on everybody’s travel bucket list. On my first visit in April 2009, my friends and I decided it was a good idea to go bungy jumping, sky diving, white water rafting, jet boating, luging and for a helicopter ride – in one weekend alone! We also tried Fergburger, visited a multitude of bars and pubs, and marvelled at the Remarkables. Needless to say, my recent visits to Queenstown aren’t quite as jam packed.

With summer around the corner and the pull of a long weekend, Nick and I packed our weekend bags and hopped in the car for an Otago road trip. Tourism has skyrocketed in Queenstown since 2009, and so have house prices and temporary accommodation. Thankfully, Nick’s uncle has graciously opened his home to us on recent trips. His well-situated pad offers breathtaking views within close proximity to the wonders of the city.

Should you be considering a visit to Queenstown, the following list will take you beyond the typical tourist traps.

Activities:
First up, we visited the Onsen Pools, located in Arthur’s Point. They are located high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon. The pools have seen a refresh in recent years and the experience is similar to that of authentic onsens in Japan. I’m not sure how it’s taken me seven years to venture to these hot pools, but I don’t want you to suffer the same fate. If you’re looking for a date idea with a view, these pools will be right up your alley.

One of my all-time favourite breakfasts can be enjoyed at Bespoke Kitchen. The café, which was named New Zealand Café of the Year in 2015, focuses primarily on raw and organic options. Alongside vegan and vegetarian staples, Bespoke also has heartier (and meatier) dishes available. I highly recommend the smoothie bowls and chia pudding. Vudu Café and Larder, which is run by the same team, is another Queenstown favourite.

Other Queenstown restaurants worth mentioning:

Rata: Run by Michelin-starred chef, Josh Emmett.
Eichardt’s Bar: An iconic Queenstown bar serving delicious cocktails in a gorgeous setting.
Amisfield Winery: If you like your meal with a view, Amisfield is sure to satisfy.
The Boat Shed: Relaxed waterfront dining at Sugar Lane Frankton Marina.
La Rumbla: A casual eatery with excellent wine, cocktails and food.

A trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without a stop in Arrowtown. Sitting in the Arrow Basin, the gold rush village is nestled below the peaks that surround the Arrow River. Explore the historic main street and marvel at the heritage buildings, some of which still retain their original facades.

Be sure to stop by The Chop Shop Merchants for coffee and a pastry. If it’s raining, catch a flick at the cutest micro cinema, Dorothy Browns.

December 4, 2016
New Opening: Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters

Working in Christchurch’s CBD, I’ve kept a close watch on all the cafés and restaurant openings over the past six months. And it seems there’s a new spot open every other week. As a frequent café-goer, I’ve relished in all these new dining opportunities. Oddly enough, I didn’t notice the new roastery on St. Asaph Street until a couple days before it opened. Only a block from our new Plato Creative offices on Manchester Street, Unknown Chapter is conveniently situated for a work session or client breakfast.

The interior is reminiscent of Australian cafés, crisp minimalism with fauna and greenery gracing the ceiling. All the white space is a refreshing change in Christchurch, where cafés tend to be slightly crowded and occasionally claustrophobic. There’s ample seating and plenty of windows. With the sun pouring in, it’s a gorgeous place to begin your day. It also makes my ever-growing list of New Zealand’s most Instagrammable cafés.

The menu is somewhat limited on opening morning. I opt for an omelette with prosciutto and goat’s cheese, Alice decides on the classic granola and Nancy opts for eggs on toast. I’d love to see a few more inventive dishes, but my omelette is nevertheless satisfying. The team is still working out some kinks, but it’s clear they care deeply about what they do. When our breakfasts were delayed coming out of the kitchen, we’re promptly offered free coffees served with apologetic smiles.

Finding delicious coffee isn’t difficult in Christchurch, yet I’m impressed to see flawless latté art at Unknown Chapter. Whether you’re looking for a new environment for study or a wholesome breakfast before work, Unknown Chapter is an excellent addition to the Christchurch café scene.

November 5, 2016
Exploring The Queen City

As Saskatchewan’s two biggest cities, Saskatoon and Regina have always experienced a rivalry of sorts.

With close relatives in Saskatoon, I didn’t spend much time in Regina until my final year of high school. After auditioning for Saskatchewan Express, I spent all my weekends and the summer after high school in The Queen City. Some of my fondest memories are from those days, when all I wanted to do was eat, sleep and dance. Recent trips to Regina involve seeing friends and discovering new galleries and cafés. So, why not share some of my favourite Queen City haunts with you all?

Regina isn’t known for its cafe culture, but fortunately that’s starting to change. Begin your day with coffee at local roastery, 33 1/3. Offering fresh and locally-sourced espresso, 33’s beans can be found throughout the province.

Another place to feed your caffeine addiction is Atlantis Coffee, which is located on Hamilton Street. They also serve bagels and sandwiches if you’re feeling peckish.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, I suggest visiting Orange Izayaka for some of the best Japanese and Korean food in Saskatchewan. Otherwise, check out Flip Eatery and Café for comfort food in a casual setting.

You can’t leave The Queen City without visiting Dessart. Whether you’re a soft serve fiend like myself or simply want to peruse the unique and retro sweets on offer, Dessart considers dessert to be an art form. I can’t say I disagree.

Visiting Regina on a Saturday? Stop by the Farmers’ Market for local and seasonal produce.

Shopping in Regina is best experienced on Scarth Street or near The Cathedral. Paper Umbrella is a cute shop filled with gift ideas. Next door is Argento, which stocks jewellery by Canadian designer, Leah Alexandra.

There’s plenty to see and do in Regina, and I’d recommend visiting The MacKenzie Art Gallery. With eight expansive galleries, MacKenzie features exhibits by Saskatchewan, Canadian and international artists.

As Saskatchewan’s capital city, make sure you visit the Legislative Buildings. Tours are available seven days a week in both English and French. After your tour, walk through the gardens to take in all the

Wascana is beautiful year-round, after lunch, set off on one of the many trails that encompass the area. Before you leave, see what’s on at the Conexus Arts Centre. The Rocky Horror Show will be on for Halloween and The Regina Symphony Orchestra is definitely worth a listen!

Tell me, what are your favourite Regina spots?

October 22, 2016
Five Things To Do In Yorkton

Yorkton is my hometown. I grew up here, went to school here and left only after finishing high school. Since moving away, many new businesses have opened up. And it’s only fitting that I share some of my must-visit Yorkton spots.

Refresh Massage Spa and Studio
A contemporary day spa that offers high quality massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and makeup application. I recently had a facial here and was impressed with both the products used (Éminence Organics) and level of service. The extractions were thorough and the facial itself was relaxing and sleep-inducing. I also loved the steaming, which brought all of my impurities to the surface. I highly recommend booking yourself in for a facial this winter, your skin will thank you.

Get Half Baked
If you’re anything like me, life sometimes gets in the way of cooking wholesome, healthy meals. Fortunately, my mother is a fantastic cook and makes me the most delicious meals whenever I return home. However, it’s a relief to know Get Half Baked will help me out if I’m in a pinch and need to host a dinner party.

Inner Cycle Studio
Get your sweat on at this newly opened spin studio. The classes are upbeat and energizing. The motivating instructors will ensure you’re challenging yourself and staying positive throughout your workout. I’m also a fan of their company gear, be sure to check it out.

Body Poetry
A beautiful place to elevate your practice, Body Poetry offers a spectrum of yoga classes. Everything from gentle and restorative to Vinyasa flow and Bikram, Body Poetry is my favourite place to practice my downward dogs and breathing in Yorkton.

Godfrey Dean Art Gallery and Western Development Museum
While these cultural hubs aren’t new, (we used to play piano at Godfrey Dean in high school) the exhibitions on offer are constantly changing. Regardless of what floats your boat, you’ll find something of intrigue at Godfrey Dean. The Western Development Museum is the place to learn about Saskatchewan’s vast history. With a brand new tagline, Saskatchewan Inspired, “the museum celebrates artifacts that represent the innovation, creativity and resourcefulness that are so much a part of Saskatchewan’s heritage.” Both are worth a visit whenever you’re in town.

October 13, 2016
Wonderful Wellington Weekends

I’ve professed my love for Wellington on numerous occasions. It’s my favourite New Zealand city for its cafe culture, fashion sense, art, film scene, and walkability. The list goes on, but let’s just say, I’ll never turn down a trip to Wellington. Here are my recommendations, whether you have a week or a weekend in the capital.

There are plenty of accommodation options in Wellington, but nothing beats a stay at Museum Art Hotel. It used to sit where Te Papa now resides, but was moved to its current location (on railway tracks, no less!) in 1993. The apartment side was added on ten years ago and is designed for longer stays. The Museum Hotel is filled with contemporary art, all owned by previous hotelier, Chris Parkin, who also designed each room. No detail is spared and you never know who you’ll rub shoulders with at this design-focused hotel. Upon checking in, we received local chocolate and coffee soda from Wellington’s own, Six Barrel Soda Co. We stayed in a spacious apartment adorned with gold-foil palm-tree wallpaper. How dreamy! Make sure to head upstairs to the Hippopotamus Restaurant and Bar and have the bartender create a handcrafted cocktail. I felt like Daisy Buchanan.

Located next to Museum Art Hotel is Te Papa. You simply cannot visit Wellington without a trip to the national museum. On at the moment is the Gallipoli Exhibition. As a Canadian expat, I wasn’t fully aware of New Zealand’s significant role in the battle of Gallipoli during WWI, but found the exhibition incredibly educational and moving. Be sure to check it out when you’re in Wellington next.

Shopping:

Shopping in Wellington is such an enjoyable experience with shops located within walking distance of each other. Visit the Old Bank Arcade for its opulent interior and check out I Love Paris, Ricochet and Ruby. Other favourites include:

Twenty Seven Names remains a must-visit for its minimalism and gallery interior approach.

Good As Gold, the name says it all with both local labels and international designers that are hard to find elsewhere in New Zealand.

Madame Fancy Pants is wonderful gift shop filled with cards, jewellery, even t-shirts by Toronto designer, Stay Home Club. A piece of home that always makes me smile.

Arty Bees has an extensive collection of used books. It’s an excellent place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Food and Drink

Customs Brew Bar: Try the doughnuts by Little Dough Co. at this sunny café on Ghunzee. The coffee is Supreme, the service is excellent, and the sun streams in.

Field and Green: Yummy breakfast options are served alongside quality coffee in this bright café.

Viva Mexico: Mexican food as it should be – cheap and simple. This hole in the wall authentic Mexican restaurant is what I’ve been missing since moving back to New Zealand.

Floriditas: This gorgeous café came recommended by a colleague and I was as impressed by the tiled floors and large windows as I was the fresh, inventive menu.

Gipsy Kitchen: This Strathmore café is a stone’s throw from The Roxy Theatre and Peter Jackson’s Weta Workshop – all three are worth a visit.

Other faves:
Memphis Belle
Flight Hangar Coffee
Frank’s
Egmont Street Eatery
Tommy Millions for pizza and soft serve (!)

Entertainment:

Catch a film at Light House Cinema. The small cinema is hidden down an alleyway on Wigan Street. Instead of the usual uncomfortable seats, the theatres at Light House are decked out with couches and pillows. Order a coffee or a wine and settle in!

If you have a couple hours to spare, check out The Great War Memorial and Exhibition for a moving history lesson. Or, if the sun is shining, catch a ferry from the harbourfront to Days Bay. From there, grab a coffee, walk along the seafront to Eastbourne and check out an antique shop or two.

How would you spend an extended weekend in Wellington?

May 31, 2016
6 Delightful Days in Dunedin

As you may already know from my Instagram posts, I spent last week in Dunedin for iD Fashion Week. The event has been running for the past seventeen years and it’s easy to see why it’s so successful. As New Zealand’s oldest city, Dunedin has such a strong creative community. With New Zealand’s oldest university and local designers like Margi Robertson and Liz Findlay, the city exudes style, cleverness and imagination.

On previous visits to Dunedin with Nick, whose mum is from a town just outside Dunedin, I marvelled at the city’s architecture and steep streets. This week called for a healthy dose of networking and collaboration, two of my favourite activities.

Less touristy than other South Island destinations, Dunedin is often overlooked for the likes of Queenstown, Christchurch and Nelson. But those who venture here will see its striking resemblance to Scotland. After all, Dunedin means Edinburgh in Gaelic.

Stay/

I was fortunate to spend the week at the Claremont House in Roslyn. This stately private guesthouse was built in 1908. The Edwardian-style house is hard to miss, overlooking the gorgeous city below. Claremont House is all I’ve ever wanted in a B&B and then some. The friendly team welcomed me with open arms, working around my busy schedule and leaving delicious sweets in my room. They also served the most scrumptious organic breakfasts in the elegant dining room every morning. The house itself is perfectly preserved, retaining its original character while feeling comfortably modern. Each room features the comfiest of king and queen-sized beds and an adjacent living room with ample space for lounging and tea-sipping. The Claremont House encompasses luxury and history and I highly recommend booking a stay here on your next trip to Dunedin!

Eat, Drink, Be Merry/

Vanguard Coffee Co.: My absolute favourite café in Dunedin, this place ticks all the boxes. There is ample seating, lots of light, beautiful fauna and florals, and a breakfast menu that runs all day. I sampled the shakshuka (amazing!) and too many flat whites to count. Shout out to the lovely baristas who let us stay late to work (aka take way too many photos!)

Kiki Beware: Visit for the gorgeous interior, but stay for the yummy coffee and inventive menu. The fries here will make you betray your diet. Served with salts and dips of all varieties, you’ll want to go with a friend and share!

Morning Magpie: This place is as eclectic as it is cozy. While I usually prefer minimalist cafes, I couldn’t pass this quirky, haphazard coffee shop. It will remind you of your grandmother’s living room.

Chamber of Coffee: If you’re starting to sense a theme…well, that’s because coffee was in ample supply all weeklong. The Chamber of Coffee also has delightful salads if you’re in need of some greens!

Taste Nature: After a few too many indulgent meals, I was relieved to discover Taste Nature. An organic grocery store that sells everything from kale to kombucha, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you arrive before 2pm on a weekday, they also have a menu of salads, soups, sandwiches and my personal favourite, green smoothies.

Di Lusso: Easy to miss, this small bar is neatly tucked into Stuart Street, and often overlooked for the more raucous students bars and pubs on this street. For iD, various designers crafted their own cocktails that were served throughout the week.

Do/

The Octagon: I’m convinced that every good city has a town square, a place to congregate. In Dunedin, it’s the Octagon. With several cafés, restaurants, bars, galleries and theatres, this is the place to begin your week(end) in Dunedin.

Dunedin Public Art Gallery: Many of the designer presentations were held at the city’s largest art gallery. It’s worth visiting for its extensive collection of local, national and international artwork. Margarita Robertson of NOM*D’s exhibition, 3.33.12. will be running for the next month, so be sure to check that out!

Dunedin Town Hall: Again, many iD events were held at the town hall, but it’s worth visiting even if Fashion Week’s not on your radar.

The Regent Theatre: Located on the lower half of Dunedin’s central Octagon reserve, Regent regularly plays host to live theatre, music, opera, dance, and film. The sign reminds me of the old California theatres.

Dunedin Railway Station: “Gingerbread George,” as it’s affectionately known, the Railway Station connects Dunedin with several South Island destinations. It has also played host to iD Fashion Week for a number of years. Along with being the longest runway in the world, the station provides a unique setting for a spectacular event.

Moeraki Boulders: Though outside Dunedin, you’ll absolutely want to stop by these unusually large, spherical boulders that lie along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Moeraki Boulders: Though outside Dunedin, you’ll absolutely want to stop by these unusually large, spherical boulders that lie along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Also, if you’re heading to see the boulders, stop by Fleur’s Place for some of the freshest seafood and best service you’ll ever experience!

Baldwin Street: The steepest street in the world!

Beaches: There are many beaches in Dunedin, so take your pick!

Shop/

Shopping in Dunedin is surprisingly extensive and very local. Avoid the malls, and meander along George Street. Hit up Slick Willy’s, Belle Bird Boutique, and Plume for unique shops well-stocked with New Zealand designers and beyond. The Ruby shop here also deserves a mention for its fireplace!

Dunedin is such a stunning city filled with so much history! Regardless of how you spend your time here, you really can’t go wrong. I hope you have the chance to visit someday soon!

March 22, 2016