At its heart, Hapuku Kitchen is focused on reconnecting the kitchen to the land and sea, celebrating the abundant larder nature has to offer – taking inspiration from the wild Kaikōura landscape. You are hosted in the home of Fiona & Chris Read, located between the soaring peaks of the Kaikōura mountains and the wild Pacific coast of Aotearoa New Zealand, for a culinary adventure that celebrates the season.

The Hapuku Kitchen Seasonal Feast is an ever-changing half day experience, focused on uncomplicated and utterly delicious dishes made from ingredients sourced from the gardens and local producers.

The day begins with an introduction to the kitchen and the menu for the day.  This is discussed over a cup of locally roasted coffee or a refreshing drink made from herbs and flowers from the garden.  You’ll then embark on a wander around the Hapuku Kitchen property, foraging in the garden for fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Once you have completed the harvest, return to the kitchen and as a group, prepare the various dishes that make up the menu.  With help always at hand, you will learn many techniques and tricks on the creation of the dishes of the day.

To finish the day, simply relax and enjoy the feast accompanied with wine or beer from some of Fiona’s favourite Canterbury and Marlborough winemakers and brewers.  Delicious home-made non-alcoholic beverages are also available, such as sparkling elderflower and cucumber.

Why is this Chuffed Worthy?

While we haven’t yet had a chance to experience Hapuku Kitchen first-hand, we were so inspired hearing the story of Fiona & Chris & their passion for using locally sourced, seasonally fresh ingredients in all of their experiences, we knew we had to get them on board for our customers for experience themselves. The Chuffed team are arguing over who gets to go and ‘quality control’ this experience first!