Lyttelton’s finest

Just over the hills is Christchurch’s arty portside suburb of Lyttelton. On top of being within the beautiful bays of Banks Peninsula, it offers great fare, quaint shops, and cool locals. Avenues checks out what’s hot in Whakaraupō Lyttelton.

This is the ultimate place to find cool gifts for interesting people; it is dog friendly and harbours the best vibes in the land. Owned by resident caffeine goddess Tessa and local legend Oscar, they deliver the finest coffee in a town renowned for exceptional brews, which can be savoured while admiring the distinctive artwork. Dead Video’s horror fiend and toy expert Evan Kiddey has created a haven for cinephiles with cult classics and rare finds to delight the most specific tastes. Full to the brim with treasures, you can easily find yourself spending an entire afternoon discussing the intricacies of historic and world cinema with till minder Benny while you browse.

This institution has hosted some of the most memorable live music events in recent years within its gorgeous 1921 heritage noted building. Serving outstanding coffee roasted on-site and a wide array of cabinet food, you can wander down to Canterbury’s finest second-hand bookstore, London Street Bookshop, with your caffeine still buzzing and lose yourself for hours in their outstanding selection of literature, specialising in novels and poetry. You’ll also encounter the best magazine shop in Ōtautahi at Leslies Magazines, tucked away under Lyttelton Coffee Co. and just across from the fabulous London Street Vintage.

Mapu is as much about the experience as the food. In this experimental kitchen where renowned chef Giulio Sturla unleashes his creativity, up to six guests join him in his explorations. Lyttelton artist and wine writer Dr. Jo Burzynska shares her experience: “You can trust Giulio Sturla to deliver exquisitely prepared locally sourced food, which he cooks right in front of you, paired with some really interesting wines.”

The menu at Super boasts vegan, vegetarian, seafood, and gluten-free options and is abundant in Asian fusion choices. Kimchi fries featuring the inarguably superior agria potato are regarded as a must-try, irresistible fresh salads and kaimoana beckon or go for the robust options of smoked tofu donburi and pork belly eggs benedict. The drinks menu is extensive, with the particularly alluring ‘brunch cocktails’ featuring ingredients such as miso salted caramel and burnt butter ice cream.

Forty Two has a doggie on a throne and tapas to die for. The majority of greens served are grown on-site in an aquaponic system, bringing awareness to this organic and sustainable farming method. Locals recommend Korean-style tofu, soy mushrooms, and tacos. A relaxed but vibrant ambience creates the perfect atmosphere to catch up over delectable, shareable nibbles and drinks. The house sour, North End La Mure blackberry ale, is not to be missed.

Lyttelton local and hospitality darling Alex Wright provides a special insider’s guide: don’t miss out on indulging in a refreshing, sweet gelato before or after trying the gnocchi and Diavola pizza from Bomba. He also recommends momo dumplings from Sherpa Kai, a Nepalese restaurant located within Commoners Bar. While you’re in the neighbourhood, keep an eye out for the recently opened micro-bakery Blue House and its array of mouthwatering carbohydrates.