Rock Shic

#730 Family Dining in New Zealand – Zibibbo Style

In an almost unprecedented move, I’m kicking off this week with two major announcements!

• My collaboration with Luxe Recess (which is actually a much belated fact), featured here.
• City Baby Dining’s new dashboard featuring our Dining Aboard Reviews.

Really, both were organic and seamless developments that have been a long time coming. If you follow us on Instagram, either on Rockshic, Rockshic Eats, or City Baby Dining, you would have definitely witnessed all of the above. However, if Instagram is not your thing (and let’s face it, I can’t blame you, since I personally am still warming up to the idea of Snap Chat, I know I know… how technologically backward of me!), then this may be news for you and you might DELIGHTED to know about new developments of City Baby Dining abroad and Luxe Recess.

Nevertheless, what better way to kick-start both facets with an update from Windy Welly? I won’t lie, I still miss our beautiful abode – the dreamy penthouse on Evans Bay, and our idyllic lifestyle there. Sure we were both wretchedly tired and jetlagged, and munchkin was peaking in what could only be described as his “terrible two’s”… but now, looking back, and as the weather here in NYC is so gloomy and dreary, I can’t help but pine after our halcyon days back in Wellington.

Plus… the fabulous eats! I forget the actual trivia, but I believe that per capita Wellington has something like the highest density of restaurants per capita of any major city we know, and I can certainly attest to this fact. Every day it seemed like we were on the brink of a new discovery, and Zibibbo is just one of many such culinary delights that I am happy to fill you in about. A couple of highlights from the evening – pizza from their wood-fired oven with fresh basil and mozzarella (a fail-safe combo in my book), Wairarapa lamb with spiced aubergine, Sicilian caponata, salsa verde, and pinor noir jus (yum), and Waitoa chicken (butter pochae3d with roasted cauliflower, Riesling lyonnaise, cauliflower tahnini topped with fried herbs). Okay I must stop because I am on the cusp of midnight snacking and we all know where that leads us to.

For more baby-friendly info, you can check out the full feature here on City Baby Dining (under our new ✈ The Traveling Baby Diner section!). Until then… enjoy the pics and I promise to deliver better and more frequent updates of our culinary adventures on the road and overseas!!

 

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"Urban Forest" sculptures by the waterfront, designed by the Dutch born artist Leon van den Eijkel, who later emigrated to New Zealand in 1986. #wellingtonsculptures

Hanging with my love at Zibbibo, winner of Wellington on a Plate Best Menu 2015 #dinnerdate

Aloha! Thanks to the good old lucky Leap Year effect, we get a whole extra DAY to conclude February, and this mamma is quite grateful for that.

For one thing, I’ve been completely off the grid for two weeks plus, as we’ve been traveling through the North Island of New Zealand, plus San Francisco along the way. I have amassed a wealth of experiences, tastes, photos and stores which I’m really looking forward to sharing. This trip has taught me many things, one of which is how small I am in this world, and how absolutely critical it is to foster human connections along the way and not take anything for granted. I’ve learned that sometimes it’s nice to simply slow down and pull back from the hustle and bustle of our lives here in New York City (ok, maybe just a little bit), and just wind down with a good old cup of flat white, overlooking the ocean, and ultimately… making the most of every moment.

Here are some of my personal favorite photos of Wellington, the windy little capital beside the Sea!

While we’re at it, I’m also sharing the lyrics from one of my favorite songs by the Mutton Birds (alright, so truth be told I’ve never even heard of these guys until hubby came along… but then I again we have been together for more than a decade, so I suppose his musical pursuits might as well be mine at this stage).

I wish I was in Wellington, the weather's not so good
The wind it cuts right through you and it rains more than it should
But I'd be there tomorrow, if I only could
Oh I wish I was in Wellington
I wish I was in Wellington - the bureaucracy
The suits and the briefcases along Lambton Quay
The Harbour City Capital, the lights beside the sea
Oh I wish I was in Wellington
It just isn't practical, you down in the capital
And me at the other end of the island
The problem is the gap - between us on the map
And there's no easy way to reconcile it
I wish I was in Wellington, the cafes and the bars
The music and the theatre, and the old Cable Car
And you can walk everywhere 'cause nowhere's very far
Oh I wish I was in Wellington
Oh I wish...
Oh I wish I was in Wellington, the wind it cuts right through
I wish I was in Wellington, there's so much more to do
I wish I was in Wellington, and you wish I was too
Oh I wish I was in Wellington, 'cause then I'd be with you

Seize the day on Haitaitai Beach! #whywellington #newzealandfun

 

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So here we are, (a little bit past) week 2 of my “Couples-only” reflection series.  See origination of idea here.

These photos were taken during one of our trips to New Zealand (obviously not our latest excursion circa January 2014, where we traveled with munchkin in tow).  I forget exactly where we were (I suspect somewhere on the South Island as we flew to Queensland and then made our way up North).  It was perfect weather and so we decided to visit one of the nearby country-sides for relaxing afternoon of ambling upon the rolling hills on horse-back.  What could be better?  I remember thinking that I wasn’t terribly good on horses (though I suspect that I’m even rustier now – come to think of that, that may have been the last time I was on a horse! Circa December 2011).  I also recall that the farm we visited had tons of baby animals, it was birthing season, I suppose… and that our guide seemed terribly bored.

All to say, it portrayed a different time, a simpler time.  Perhaps after my Switzerland trip and our upcoming family trip to Sunset Beach on Shelter Island, I can look into booking a horseback riding trip with hubby!

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In yet another #TBT moment, these photos were taken in January, when the Nuke was just five months!  We had endeavored upon a road trip in New Zealand, where we stopped through Rotorua (known for its thermal pools), and then shacked up for a few days at the Solitaire Lodge, which was sheer bliss.

Here, my wardrobe comprised almost entirely of Southern Hemisphere favorites (think Country Road, Jigsaw, and maybe even an odd Witchery accessory thrown in here or there).  The Nuke is dressed almost entirely in Le Petite Bateau (my then-obsession), coupled by this ridiculous horsey hat I found for him plus these Ro Sham Bo Baby sunnies that I was absolutely obsessed with during our Southern Hemisphere road trip.

And yes, that was our backyard, aka the view we woke up to every morning at the Solitaire Lodge.  I know that hubs might have been a bit cross with me at the time for wanting to do a photoshoot after a long drive and still recovering from potential jetlag.  But, I must say, it was worth it!!! 

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The beautiful Wairarapa region! Just an hour's drive from Wellington across the winding Rimutaka Hills.

 

Tempura softshell crab! #noms

 

Coastal scenes of Cape Palliser, Wairarapa

 

The wineries of Martinborough, home to some of the world's finest boutique vineyards

Happy Wednesday!  This ladybird’s been all over the place lately… I guess that’s the game of juggling mommydom, work, and being wifey – something’s gotta give!

I’m also leaving in a couple of days for good old San Francisco (cannot wait!!).  We’ll be shacked up at the Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park, soaking in the rays and chowing down some seriously delicious food.

Speaking of yumminess, I came across these on my old camera (taken from the Wakelin House situated in Greytown, Wairarapa, NZ) and just had to share.  This may sound very strange but I just love whitebait fish!  They’re very popular in New Zealand and are used in everything from fritters to omelets to deconstructed side & mains. 

Oddly enough, we didn’t go back this time around when we were in Greytown (where we’d stayed at the boutique hotel White Swan – full review forthcoming!), but we were there several years ago and I remember the food being absolutely AMAZING.  You can either dine in their cozy living room with the open fire, or al fresco outdoors in Wakelin’s backyard garden, with a glass of vino from the local wineries. 

Now how incredible is that?!

Come to think of it… I must be getting awfully hungry as it’s way past my lunch break.

 

It never ceases to amaze me how absolutely stunning and photogenic the coastlines of New Zealand can be.&nbsp; See another photo series <a href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2012/12/257-memories-of-new-zealand.html" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2012/12/257-memories-of-new-zealand.html">here</a>, also taken during this trip.

 

We even found some New Zealand fur seals just over the jagged coast!&nbsp; The cute fishing village of Ngawi is apparently the country's largest breeding area for these guys.

 

Whitebait crusted catch of the day -- looking beautiful and tasty.&nbsp; I remember having lots of whitebait on that particular trip, it was heavenly. &nbsp;

 

Hubby went big with crayfish, ceviche, and a side of roast prawn shooter. Lucky him!

 

The next day we went ballooning early in the morning... see <a href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2012/12/268-up-up-and-away.html" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2012/12/268-up-up-and-away.html">here</a> for more photos.

 

Our yummy menu for the night, perfected by Michelin star trained head chef Anthony North, formerly of the luxury lodge <a href="http://www.wharekauhau.co.nz/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.wharekauhau.co.nz/">Wharekauhau Estate</a>

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#504 Coastal Cutie

We’re gearing up to take our little munchkin out for his first swimming class soon! My-oh-my. 

Before we do so, here are a few photos taken of the little guy strutting his stuff in full nautical regalia at a Vineyard in Martinborough, during our recent trip to New Zealand.  I recall that day fondly, how the vibrant & exuberant colors he donned matched our moods at the moment. 

In truth, both hubs and I were absolutely exhausted (major time-zone changes can really wreak havoc on a little one’s schedule!), but our little Nuke’s sense of adventure & playfulness, on top of his oh-so-good nature, undeniably lifted our spirits. 

That’s the thing about little kiddos, they really do bring out the best in you sometimes!! 

 

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#494 Wai-O-Tapu – Welcome to the Champagne Pool

It’s hard to believe that nearly a month has gone by since we left New Zealand.  My oh my how quickly time flies!

I was just going over our (fully-loaded) photo album from the epic trek to the Southern Hemisphere.  That’s the thing about being a blogger, you end up taking way too many photos and they can often get lost in the shuffle.

That said, have you ever seen anything more incredible than the Champagne Pool of Wai-O-Tapu?  We stopped by this place after reluctantly leaving behind the pampering perfection that was the Solitaire Louge... only to be taken over by the sheer beauty & other-worldliness of these natural pools.  

Simply put, it totally blew our minds...

This sort of thermal wonder is what makes Rotorua one of the top tourist attractions of New Zealand, and judging by the pictures alone, you can understand why!  (Note: it is all the more impressive up close and personal).

Yes, the sulphur-laden mist of the initial encounter will overwhelm you.  However, you will soon forget such noxious odors as your nose gives way to your eyes… beholding and utterly surrendering to the ethereal & dreamlike beauty of the thermal wonders of Rotorua.

Oh, and for the record, the Champagne Pool really does bubble over enthusiastically.  What’s more, I heard that you can actually hold private dinner parties and concerts by the pool – now there’s a concept! 

 

 

Bunny's all dressed up in Bonpoint, Zara (last seen <a href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2013/11/458-post-baby-chic-week-12-attitude.html" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.rockshic.com/my-blog/2013/11/458-post-baby-chic-week-12-attitude.html">here</a>), Hanna Andersson, and camera-ready in his <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tourist-Infant-Sleeve-Galaxy-6-12m/dp/B00H4P9NSO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=rocshisty-20&amp;linkCode=w00&amp;creativeASIN=B00H4P9NSO" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.amazon.com/Tourist-Infant-Sleeve-Galaxy-6-12m/dp/B00H4P9NSO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=rocshisty-20&amp;linkCode=w00&amp;creativeASIN=B00H4P9NSO">Baby Tourist suit!</a>&nbsp;

 

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Building precious memories in paradise!

 

On our second day, we took bubs for a quiet hike along <a href="http://www.solitairelodge.co.nz/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.solitairelodge.co.nz/">the lodge's</a> private and untouched coastline, followed by a lazy afternoon picnic of delicious smoked salmon bagels and fruits prepped by the kitchen. &nbsp;It was sheer yumminess and precisely what we needed as a family!

While in New Zealand, hubs and I embarked on a remarkable getaway at the Solitaire Lodge in Rotorua.   Having done a bit of “glamping” in the deserts of Dubai and the wilderness of South Africa, I was intrigued by what we might find in the back and beyond of Mount Tarawera (the latter of which was responsible for one of New Zealand’s largest volcanic eruptions to date). 

The result? 

Sheer bliss and tranquility.  Believe me when I say – such moments of luxury don’t come easily these days, particularly when you’re toting around a little one.

We were treated to a rare blend of world-class luxe and that good-old downhome taste of “Kiwiana" culture, or what hubby proudly dubs the “New Zealand Way” (as demonstrated by both Wayne the owner and Graham the General Manager).  Amazing farm-to-table cuisine paired with personalized wine recommendations made by their in-house sommelier?  Check.  Fantastic panoramic views of the lake and the Tarawera volcano? Check.  A pre-breakfast dip in the volcanic thermal pool via the hotel’s private jet boat? Done and done. 

All in all, the three days we spent at the lodge felt a bit like a dream that one wakes up from reluctantly.  We were utterly besotted when Ingrid, the hotel owner herself, happily offered to look after our little precious bundle while mommy and daddy basked in a private morning thermal dip.  Such enchanting experiences don't come around very often, and when they do… you embrace it and never, ever take them for granted.  (For the record, the thermal soak felt amazing!). 

These days, travel is as much about the ability to relax and let go as it is about the destination, and our fantastic journey at the Solitaire Lodge offered exactly that.  We were able to properly unwind from our 28+ hour journey from NYC to Wellington (no small feat when you’re making three back-to-back flights with a five months old! More on that later).  On top of it all, we were treated to some of the best company, scenic views, and tasty multi-courses cooking (with a nod to molecular gastronomy of course) we’ve had in ages. 

Now that’s a rare treat indeed!!

Date night at the lodge... off to our private five-course meal for two, wearing Jigsaw, Witchery, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, and Helmut Lang.  Beyond excited!

Now that's quite the view to wake up to, little one!

 

Our couples-only swim in a natural hot-pool by boat. #awesome

Morning thermal dip! Heavenly.

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It’s hard to believe that we’ve been in New Zealand for over two weeks now!  Time sure flies when you’re having fun.

Speaking of fun, hubs and I had the great luck of hitting the IRB Rugby Sevens yesterday, arguably Wellington’s biggest party of the year.  This is where tens of thousands of rugby fans (it is New Zealand, after all) from all over flock to the city’s capital for the two-day event.  The tournament, held in the city’s Westpac Stadium, is the third in the IRB (International Rugby Board)’s World Series that features sixteen international teams.

Now, I’m no rugby aficionado by any stretch of the imagination – though hubby is an absolute fanatic when it comes to the sport (which means our boy will be too).  That said, I do enjoy a nice live sporting event (last seen here), and what better than the Rugby Sevens? Did I mention, also, that everybody comes in their costumes for the game?  (Perfect excuse to go shopping, might I add).  It’s like Mardi Gras, Carnival, and Halloween all rolled up into one big sporting phenomenon, mixed in with good old-natured fun.  What could be better?

Oh, and at the end of the day, New Zealand won – talk about icing on an already delcious cake!

#268 Up Up and Away

Christmas Eve -- New Zealand -- 2011

Somewhere between Christmas day and now, I caught a nasty bug, that’s been keeping me mostly home in my pajamas – drinking lots of coconut water, and homemade tea with lemon, basil, and honey.  I’m hoping to reach a turning point soon (today perhaps?), though my spirits were indefinitely lifted when hubby came home today with loads of fashion magazines from McNally Jackson, our local book store.  “I figured you’d want to read these while you were resting.” He said.  I smiled – how did I get so lucky with this man?

Perhaps it’s the ever-recurring nostalgia for travel, or perhaps it’s these ubiquitous LV balloon ads above – whatever the case, I totally had another flashback when I flipped through the pages of British Vogue, with memories of a balloon ride we took last Christmas in New Zealand… amidst the beautiful vineyards of Marinborough.

It was a crisp, clear summer dawn in New Zealand (quite chilly actually, though supposedly that’s ideal for ballooning), and we were whisked away for a most charming ride.  I missed the ascent, sadly, as I somehow managed to trap my scarf into my own zipper (fool!).  When I did finally look up, I was literally orbiting another plane, or so it seemed.   Your entire perspective changes when you’re up so high, floating in a basket… surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.  It was truly a magical experience – followed by a champagne breakfast with a toast.

Though I must add, as awesome as my first ballooning experience was, it will also likely be my last.  Hubby and I learned weeks later of a tragic ballooning accident which occurred in the very same spot (what are the odds?!!).  I supposed the lesson here is… be warned, sometimes fairy tales come with a price!

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