The Art of Water

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After two decades covering food and beverage, I never expected one of the most fascinating masterclasses I would attend to be about bottled water.

At Vesuvio, Matthew Barnsley introduced me to the world of premium mineral water through Antipodes Water, and completely changed my understanding of what belongs on a fine dining table.

If you grew up in Christchurch before the earthquakes, you will remember the purity of our tap water. It is something many of us only truly appreciated once we travelled. Water has flavour, texture, weight, and balance and as I learned, those qualities dramatically affect food and wine.

Matthew explained how founder Simon Woolley spent over a year visiting more than 150 aquifers searching for water pure enough to complement, not compete with, premium dining experiences. The chosen source became New Zealand’s deepest registered artesian aquifer at 327 metres, producing naturally filtered water with low mineral interference, neutral pH, and remarkable softness on the palate.

The discussion around Total Dissolved Solids was particularly eye opening. When enjoying exceptional wine, every detail matters, including the water beside it. Antipodes was created with that philosophy in mind.

What impressed me most was that long before sustainability became fashionable, Antipodes had already embraced environmental leadership, becoming zero carbon certified in 2007 and operating with 100 percent renewable energy.

Minimalist, refined, and unmistakably New Zealand, Antipodes has become more than bottled water. It is a study in restraint, provenance, and considered luxury.

After Matthew’s expert guidance, I will never look at water the same way again.

WORDS: Nicholas Henare 

In a city where hospitality continues to evolve, Manu is setting a new benchmark. Not through noise or novelty, but through intention.

Owner Karen Hattaway brings a wealth of industry experience to Manu, paired with a clear vision of what modern hospitality should look like. It is not just about exceptional food and considered service. It is about responsibility. It is about care.

At the centre of this approach is the introduction of Angel Wing Drink Protectors. Thoughtfully designed by Karen herself, these custom glass top protectors sit seamlessly over drinks, offering a discreet layer of safety for guests without interrupting the experience.

This is not a reactive measure. It is a proactive commitment to ensuring patrons feel secure in every moment they spend at Manu.

Grounded in the principle of manaakitanga, this initiative reflects a deeper philosophy. Hospitality is not just about what is served. It is about how people are made to feel. Safe. Respected. Looked after.

For many wahine, the presence of these protectors represents more than a practical solution. It signals awareness. It signals leadership. It signals that their wellbeing has been considered before they even arrive.

Guest response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing genuine appreciation for the thoughtfulness behind the gesture. It is a quiet detail that speaks volumes.
Karen’s leadership places Manu at the forefront of a more conscious hospitality movement in Christchurch. One where venues lead with integrity and understand that true service extends beyond the table.

“Hospitality should never compromise safety. The Angel Wing Drink Protectors are part of our responsibility as a venue not just to serve great food and cocktails, but to lead with integrity and care within our community.”

Manu is not just creating an experience. It is setting a standard.

Visit Manu.co.nz

It started as a simple addition to the holiday bag and quickly became a CM-approved staple.

We took three flavours with us, salt and pepper, Whitaker’s chocolate, and the now well-known 3 seed as seen on our CM Instagram, and put them to a proper taste test. Different times of day, different people, different settings, real life.

Each one delivered. Here are the results:

Salt and pepper was clean, punchy and moreish. The go-to after swims and late afternoons when something savoury was needed.

The 3 seed brought texture and depth. Nutty, wholesome and quietly addictive. We paired this one with the last of the season’s strawberries and shared the moment on Instagram. Fresh, local and naturally sweet alongside something protein-rich and satisfying. A simple combination that felt elevated and intentional.

Whitaker’s chocolate added a subtle indulgence. Just enough sweetness to feel like a treat while still sitting comfortably in that better-for-you space. The tester also had a naughty double dipping spoon confession but since we run things anonymously here, their secret single behavior is safe with us. 

What sets these apart is balance. Natural protein, simple ingredients and no heaviness. A snack that works whether you are travelling, unwinding or feeding the family.

CM doesn’t just try products. We live with them.
Affordable. Accessible. Genuinely good.

For more, visit their website and follow along on Instagram.

https://www.picspeanutbutter.com/