IN SEASON

I’m totally biased when it comes to living in and loving my hometown, but the thought of summer in the city – especially this summer and this city – feels particularly enticing.

After such a long year, long on issues and challenges, it’s the perfect time to dress up and sample our city’s best features.

So, what’s on my list? First will be a visit to the recently finished and completely new Ravenscar House Museum. This stylish establishment houses an incredible New Zealand art collection of over 110 paintings and is the generous legacy of Christchurch couple Jim and Susan Wakefield. The museum itself is funded with insurance proceeds from their previous home, also called Ravenscar House, which was destroyed in the Canterbury Earthquakes. 

Being able to visit something so beautifully gifted to our city, with the added attachment of a legacy that has come from the pain of our earthquake losses, is deeply special.

Next will be numerous (I hope) walks around our largest park. I’m fortunate to live close to Hagley Park, and although every season – and we’re lucky to enjoy the full four here (unlike our northern cousins) – has its variations, the summertime brings more people, more park-based events, and a really strong sense of community.

Finally, I’m going to eat plenty whilst drinking mindfully and do my utmost to visit with family and friends some of my favourite restaurants and cafés. These include Unknown Chapter, Mediterranean Market, Hali, and Earl, in the knowledge that the season and our location will be represented by imaginative fare that hasn’t been overhandled or overthought.

Having seen what a year of constant Covid issues can do throughout the country, I’m for supporting the city, especially the city businesses, the best way I can. I’m going to spend, invest, and eat locally.

I’m for backing my own backyard, and here’s to every other Cantab who has the same idea. If you’re dreaming of a simpler life in this, the silly season, it’s all there or should I say ‘here’. Thanks, Canterbury.