A group of American and Canadian seafarers stuck at the Whangārei marina because of Covid-19 are putting together an international recipe book which doubles as a Whangārei guidebook.
Susan Koning and Betsy Linn talk about being docked in Whangārei, how the book came about, and share recipes for ceviche, and Walking Taco dip.
Photo: supplied
Listen to Susan Koning and Betsy Linn on Nine to Noon
Betsy Linn has lived on her boat for 12 years.
This is the third year she moored in Whangārei to avoid the Pacific cyclone season – something about 150 boats from around the world do every season, she says.
Normally she would have departed for the Pacific Islands in May but this year isn't sure of what to do next.
It's a bit of a dilemma being a visitor to New Zealand who arrived by boat, Susan says.
"The borders are closed here. Should we leave our boat – which is our home – to fly back and visit the family and friends and loved ones? We wouldn't be allowed back in."
The Whangārei community have been very kind to the yachties during their extended stay and the town is a very nice place to be stuck, she says.
Going to the pool and pilates classes and community volunteering are enjoyable things the yachties aren't normally able to do, adds Betsy.
The new cookbook will contain recipes from 15 countries, she says, and help future visitors to Whangārei know where to see a kiwi and get provisions and "marine widgets", Susan says.
When you're on a boat, the ideal meal is fresh fish, but more often its canned food. To jazz this up, good olive oil, vinegar and chutneys are good things to have on hand, Susan says. In New Zealand, she's been enjoying chicken salt and mixed spice.
Susan and Betsy's book will be printed by a local printer in Whangārei and they hope to have it for sale by Christmas.
Recipes: