Vive La France!

Christchurch. Jan. 2009. Ajr

This morning's French Farmer's Market in Struthers Lane was a quiet affair.

Mind you, I was there early and several of the stall holders are apparently still on holiday. That must explain the complete and unfortunate lack of a French baker! Surely you cannot have a French market without a French baker? But it was a mellow morning and it was nice to sit there regardless, sipping on espresso, watching people come and go.

New Life for Old Warehouses

Old Warehouses, Struthers Lane, Christchurch. Dec. 2008. Ajr

This fabulous old brick warehouse is typical of those in the back alleys of central Christchurch near SOL (South of Lichfield) and in Poplar Lane. Many of them have already been revamped and given new life as apartments, boutique shops, studios, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes. I keep watching this one to see if it will also be re-invented as something chic and useful again....I hope so as these developments have certainly punched new life into central Christchurch. www.sol.co.nz

A Slice of Hawke's Bay Luxury...

Greenhill Lodge, Hawke's Bay. Dec. 2008. Images Supplied.

I’m a sucker for an old homestead, so Greenhill Lodge in Hawke’s Bay is right up my alley. Designed by architect, George Sollitt (1834-1912) it features a grand three-storey central viewing turret, where lodge owners, Neil Barber and Craig Hay have created a small sitting room complete with telescope. The homestead was built by Archibald McLean and was started in 1897. Its many gorgeous features include the grand, wood-panelled billiard room, elaborate hand-painted lead lights, elegant carved archways and now, five elaborate guest suites, each with its own ensuite. The old stables have been converted into a gymnasium and a pool awaits. Greenhill was owned by six generations of the same family and their most esteemed guest was Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother in 1958. The property finally sold in 2001 to Neil and Craig, who have established it as one of Hawke’s Bay’s star properties. www.greenhill.co.nz