Lizzie is the director of Tennyson Gallery, a contemporary art space on the corner of Tennyson and Hastings Streets that champions local and emerging artists. She’s proudly called this spot home since 2016 and is a big believer in the creativity, style, and spirit of Napier’s CBD. A curator by trade and a fashion lover by nature, Lizzie brings an eye for detail to everything – from art to Albariño.
EAT
Community Burgers! The food is awesome and the vibe is fresh and friendly. These guys are so sweet and fun. Plus, a marg with your burg? Yes please. I also love to elevate daily coffee time at Georgia on Tennyson with a quiche. Banter with Benny, Ella and the team, some of the best coffee around (Third Eye – local as) and a very cheesy, eggy hit – breakfast of champions! And Pastel de nata from Lisbon Artisan Pastry Shop on Hastings Street, of course!
DRINK
During the workday it’s got to be a Gizzy fizzy (aka ’73 Citrus) from the fridge at Vinci’s Pizza, perfect for washing down a lunchtime slice. After 5, it’s likely to be something special and local on glass pour at Goldie’s…. Albariño Brothers perhaps, or the Chenin Blanc from Three Fates.
SHOP
For something gorgeous to wear, Degas Boutique. Theresa and her team Gill, Candace, and Julie are lovely experts, and they champion my favourite NZ designer, Sheryl May. When Sheryl May comes to town to preview her new collections with the ladies, I’m in there too, making my pre-orders six months in advance – how’s that for a hyper-local perk! Spex Eyewear has the most incredible selection and service when it comes to sunglasses, total Napier CBD legends. And I’ve recently discovered some really striking and unique frames with the team at Kuske Eyewear too, so our eyes are very well served in Napier.
For the best bedding, sleepwear, gorgeous gifts, and a good natter, Lucy and the team at Wallace Cotton always nail the brief.
We also have one of the two best book shops ever, right here in the CBD – Wardini Books. (The other best is Wardini Books in Havelock North, lol). What they don’t have, they’ll order in lightning-quick. What they do have is marvellous.
PLAY/SEE/DO
For a very special treat or a very special gift, a massage from either Sen Spa on Emerson Street or Bai Mint on Hastings Street.
WHY I CALL NAPIER HOME
I’ve been here on the corner of Tennyson and Hastings Streets for nine years and I love this spot. I bought the gallery and rebranded and adapted it in 2016. There have been really good times since, and really challenging periods for the CBD and wider community too. But being a part of this inner city still brings me delight and a sense of togetherness and I have lots of love and admiration for the many unique, plucky and innovative owner-operators and personalities who choose to do business here. I love being a retailer and a customer in the Napier CBD.
