Sanctuary satisfies all needs
In Wanaka, Justine Tyerman returns to her tu¯rangawaewae where she meets an axewielding man, some endearing alpacas and a tribe of rabbits.
followed by entrees of venison and pinot noir salami, smoked mussels, sun-dried tomato and capsicum dips, grilled baba ganoush, olives, cheeses, fruit, baby vegetables, artisan breads, crackers and chutneys.
The substantial main courses included tasty Akaroa barrel-smoked salmon, free-range chicken on coconut rice, Cardrona merino lamb and rack of beef served with a variety of quinoa, potato, roast vegetable and green salads, all gluten-free. The finale was smoked apricot cheesecake with rosemary.
The dishes were beautifully presented on schist plates, wine barrel staves and paua shells with Central Otago wild thyme and award-winning Wild Earth wines.
The verdict
Central Otago is my tu¯ rangawaewae, a place I call home. It’s where I feel a fierce sense of ownership of the mountains, lakes, rivers and glaciers, the golden tussocks, the long shadows in the late afternoon, the sweet smell of the summer lupins, the diamond pathway across the lake at sunset, Mt Aspiring glowing pink and gold at dawn ... And Te Ariki Nui is an exceptionally peaceful place to stay. At a time of high pressure and excitement, the home and surroundings are soothing, tranquil and restful. Hall describes her home as a ‘‘sanctuary’’ and indeed it is... while satisfying every physical and spiritual need.
The writer stayed with some help from Te Ariki Nui and Jucy Rentals.
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