Lunch at Paekakariki

 We met up with our SLG friends during the week.  It was Robin's turn to arrange an outing for March, and he decided to meet for lunch at the Paekakariki Hotel.  The meaning of Paekakariki is "pae" for perching and "kakariki" is a native parrot.  The local cafe just across the road from the pub is called "The Perching Parrot".  

Paekakariki Hotel

Calvin and Helen joined us in Finn's Restaurant for lunch, with Trish unable to make it.  As we sat at the table by the window, we remarked at the railway barrier arms coming down across the road, stopping traffic as a train went by.  This happened time and time again while we were enjoying our meal, passenger trains arriving and departing regularly, and the occasional freight trains too.  This is a very busy rail line indeed.  

We took some time choosing our meals - I was after soup as it was a chilly day, but no soup on the menu just yet, I was told.  Eventually, we placed our orders, and the food arrived.  I tried corn fritters for a change, and Robin enjoyed his sweet and sour pork on rice.  Having a nice meal for lunch means I don't have to cook another meal for our dinner that night.

Corn fritters for lunch

There was  plenty to chat about as usual, including our friend Trish who was about to embark on an overseas adventure, how exciting for her.  We certainly wished her well, and safe travels.  With our SLG numbers so much lower these days, the time for the draw had come around again, and we picked a piece of paper showing who selected which month for the next few months.

Calvin, Helen, Robin and Jenny

THere was an interesting print of an old painting (painted in 1868) on the wall by our table, which I investigated, showing the local Maori people and their waka (boats) on the beach, with Mana Island in the background.

It was time to say our goodbyes and we headed home, stopping off at a couple of places with things to cross off on our list.  And no trip along the coast is complete without a stop to admire Kapiti Island, is it.  This really is my favourite island, I have to say.

Kapiti Island, along the coast road