Earlier on this year we stopped in Ōtorohanga, New Zealand’s kiwiana town. We couldn’t resist photographing this kiwi eyeing up a pav, part of a mural painted on the Ed Hillary Walkway, in the town’s main street.

One for the end of the year, a little way off, we then thought. And, as they say, time flies… so, this brings us to our last journal for 2017.

With Ōtorohanga so fittingly providing the inspiration for this year’s final posting, we must tell you about this treasure of a Waikato town. This place adorns kiwiana with real pride. You’ll find no shortage of displays of many of New Zealand’s popular culture icons.

So, of course, in the mural in the Ed Hillary Walkway the pavlova is right there amongst it. You’ll spot it alongside the kiwi, the All Blacks, buzzy bee, Edmonds baking powder, jandals, goodnight kiwi (to those old enough to remember), Sir Colin Meads, the silver fern, Mr Four Square, Marmite, Ches ’n Dale, Weetbix … (And here’s a tip: pop into Ō Cafe alongside for coffee and a bite to eat while you’re on the go.)

The year’s ending often prompts a nostalgic moment or two. And so too the walkway. Time to reflect on the good times, how things were, how things change.

It’s been a big year for The FoodPath NZ team, as we’ve ventured throughout our lovely New Zealand.

Still, we remain so impressed by the stunning local food we find throughout the country. New Zealand’s coffee stops and eateries, artisan producers, specialty grocers and farmers’ markets are amazing. This country is very blessed to have them.

And our first food travel guide for the North Island was launched. Thank you so much to all of you who have downloaded it, used it, given us feedback, and told others about it. We are immensely grateful for your support.

We’ve been working hard through the year on getting new places listed for you around the North Island, and setting up our plans to work on the South Island guide in 2018. And, in amongst all that, other products in the pipeline too…

As always, we're looking forward to what's ahead.

Our wishes to you all for a safe and happy festive season, filled with all the joys of summertime. And we look forward to catching up again in 2018.

Merry Christmas
The FoodPath NZ