More than food on the menu
Some of Christchurch’s hottest places have more than delicious fare, tempting tipples and welcoming vibes.
This week, Neat Places names its top picks for the best spots to eat, drink and then some…
Christchurch Adventure Park
225 Worsleys Rd
This adventure park is a tranquil escape for those seeking more than just thrills.
Among the towering pine forests and deep valleys of the
358-hectare park a 15-minute drive from the central city, it offers stunning views and delicious cafe and bar offerings, as well as off-pedal activities.
Beyond some of the best mountainbike trails in the country, there is a walking track guests can climb, with a free chairlift ride back down; a jawdroppingly stunning zipline tour, and weekly events including quiz nights and lads’ and ladies’ evenings.
When you’re done exploring, sit on the cafe’s large, elevated deck and enjoy an Underground coffee, Cassels & Sons Brewing Co beer, and wines from Black Estate, as well as an extensive casual dining menu.
Ten27
1027 Ferry Rd, Ferrymead
A go-to for coastal locals, familyrun Ten27 may be Ferrymead’s best-kept secret for visitors.
Bringing upmarket cafe fare, craft beer, New Zealand wines and live music performances to the area, Ten27 is complemented by the beautiful furniture and homeware store Casual and Country, with which it shares premises and ownership.
The airy, pristine interior is championed by the stunning exterior – architecturally designed by Greg Young in a postearthquake rebuild.
The Ferry Rd destination stocks Garage Project, Cassels & Sons and Three Boys craft beers, and serves local produce, Akaroa salmon and Wakanui beef.
Seating for up to 100 people makes Ten27 a great venue choice, and means there will be a spot for your brunch, lunch or dinner requirements.
Space Academy
371 St Asaph St
It is not astrophysics you will find at Space Academy, but a collaborative space frequently hosting gigs, talks and other performances.
Kadett cafe by day, bar by night, settle into the truly eclectic vibe this establishment offers and enjoy the music over craft beer and a small but fine selection of wine and snacks.
Rollickin Gelato Cafe at the Arts Centre
28 Worcester Blvd
Rollickin Gelato has quickly developed cult status in the city, evolving from a post-quake roving cart into its flagship creamery on New Regent St, and its second store is at home in the idyllic Christchurch Arts Centre.
Also serving C4 Coffee Co coffee, Rollickin is a great destination for those on the west side of the city who may want a caffeine fix or gelato hit to go. Patrons can wander through the nearby botanic gardens, visit the rest of the Arts Centre or wait for the next tram.
Christchurch Farmers’ Market
16 Kahu Rd, Riccarton
Locals need no introduction to the Riccarton Bush market: every Saturday morning, the precinct is bustling with shoppers and stallholders enjoying the best of Christchurch’s local food, produce, and arts and crafts.
Enjoy the cuisine options from Bacon Bros or Posh Porridge while you wander the stalls filled with fresh, local produce and artisan delights.
Next to Christchurch’s oldest house, in a precinct of native bush, the setting is so delightful you will need to be strong-willed to resist parking up on the riverbank to watch the ducks while you contemplate your next purchase (whether it’s for the pantry or your belly).
❚ Discover more neat places around town at neatplaces.co.nz and download the free and offline Neat Places smartphone app.