Every year local producers descend on the Glenmark Domain located just 45 minutes out of Christchurch for the annual North Canterbury Wine and Food festival.
In the lead up, I'd made sure I was heading into the weekend hungry, knowing I had two days of nothing but food and wine on the to-do list.
My first port of call was Limestone Hills where I met Rosie, the most adorable beagle.
But, just being cute wasn't the only thing Rosie was good at, she was an expert at hunting out truffles, a fascinating process to watch.
In just ten minutes Rosie had proudly produced six of the best for her owner Gareth who passes them onto local restaurants. From paws to the plate, it doesn't get any more local than this.
My accommodation for the night may have only been a short drive out of Christchurch, but it was miles away from any sign of civilisation.
I was staying in a cute little cottage at Karetu Downs. No cellphone coverage, an enormous 2000 hectare hill country property populated only by more than 4000 sheep, 120 cows, two kune kune pigs and donkey called Barney, and to top it off, the Waipara River glides its way around the farm's edges.
A day of food and wine had me quite exhausted, so I spent the evening doing a bit more of the same, a glass of pinot noir in front of the fireplace.
The following day was showday, the main event.
Despite the rain, locals still turned out in droves to sample the best of local produce.
Wines from Pegasus Bay and The Boneline were my favourite picks out of the many vineyards taking part in the festival.
Then there was the food. From pork ribs and smokey t-bones to duck parfait trumpets and vegan charcuterie, there was something on offer for everyone, and everything on offer for someone - me.
This part of our beautiful country has suffered so much, I can't think of a better way to support their economy than indulging in the hospitality in this pocket of paradise.
Alexia Santamaria is a freelance food and travel writer.
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