Nick van Halderen AKA Taipei Popcorn grew up in Dunedin before taking Taiwan by storm as their drag alter ego. With family and friends still in Ōtepoti, Popcorn routinely returns to visit.
Here's their guide to Dunedin must-dos, the attractions you have to visit and the best places to dine in the city.
What is Dunedin’s best beach?
Karitāne in the north of the city. We used to go there often when I was a teenager and it's gorgeous. You can experience the white sand beach, sculptural rock formations, sea lions lazing in the sun, and a gorgeous walk along the Huriawa Pā trail through conservation area. It's a very special place.
Your number one Dunedin must-do or place you’d take friends or family who are visiting?
The Rhododendron Dell in the Dunedin Botanic Garden in October and November is heavenly. It's truly one of the most beautiful gardens I've visited in the world, so well maintained and bursting with colour.
What is the best place to dine out in Dunedin?
No 7 Balmac. It's quite a way up the hill to get there but located in a cute little suburban part of Māori Hill. The Mediterranean Breakfast is delicious, the interior is cozy and beautifully designed, the coffee is perfect, and the service is excellent!
Best place for a pre/post-event drink?
I like Woof! On Moray Place. It's chill and colourful, super spacious with lots of seating areas, queer-friendly and an easy place to socialise.
Best hidden gem?
Patti's & Cream Scoop Shop in Mornington. The ice cream flavours are so mouthwatering, you can get one to go and walk around nearby Jubilee Park.
Dunedin does coffee well. Where do you like to get yours from and what’s your order?
I always go to Modaks! It was my favourite place to meet with friends and hang out in high school. It's been open forever and is always so nostalgic to go back to. I usually just get a flat white (exciting, I know), it's very hard to find them in Taiwan so I always make sure to have as many as I can whenever I'm back in Aotearoa!
What’s your favourite Dunedin boutique or designer?
Check out Belle Bird when walking along George Street. It's been there for so long, and for a reason. It houses an eclectic collection of Aotearoa designers. The earrings and sunglasses are especially colourful and campy.
Where do you go for a little bit of culture?
The Toitū Otago Settlers Museum is a spectacular institution. The architecture is stunning, the exhibitions are wonderfully curated and designed, and it really immerses and connects you to the rich history of Ōtepoti. It's a treasure for the city.