The simple joy of a summer picnic

The arrival of summer signals the start of picnic season! Packing a picnic and heading to a beautiful spot with friends and family to enjoy eating outdoors, is a lovely way to spend a summer’s day. From finding the right location to what to eat and pack, discover our tips for creating the perfect picnic.

DISCOVER NEW IN

Location – finding the perfect picnic spot

The quest for the perfect picnic spot doesn’t need to be as stressful as The Bear’s Picnic by Stan Berestain! Whether you’re heading to the park, the beach or the bush, we recommend a little research beforehand to mitigate any potential issues. Research nearby comfort facilities, parking, shade and swimming options. We think the perfect picnic spot is not too busy, offers both sun and natural shade and has a soft place to sit, either on sand or grass.

Equipment essentials – the tools for a perfect picnic

Make your picnic comfortable and stylish with beautiful picnic essentials. We recommend these items for maxium comfort and enjoyment, whether you’re picnicking on the beach or at the park. A good quality picnic blanket with a waterproof reverse in case the ground is damp, a sun umbrella or two for shade, filled outdoor cushions to recline on, a throw or two to snuggle under if it’s an evening picnic, cooler bags or picnic basket and accessories (see below) for your food and drinks and both bug spray and sun cream. If you’re taking children with you, a ball or games to play is a good idea, as long as their fun doesn’t knock over your wine!

DISCOVER OUTDOOR COLLECTION

What to pack for the perfect picnic menu

An ideal picnic menu includes food that can be eaten all together as one course or is designed for snacking on over the duration of a day out. Prepare food in advance and chill drinks overnight the night before. We recommend a good kiwi classic such as a bacon and egg pie and/or a vegetarian quiche which can be cut into finger food sized portions. Club sandwiches are picnic stalwarts – just avoid tomato as the bread will become soggy. A cheese or charcuterie board is an easy option for all day snacking. Or a simple summer salad to serve in fresh bread rolls with roast chicken or leftover Christmas ham. Add fresh strawberries for a sweet summery finish. Take plenty of fluids for a day’s picnicking in the sun along with fizzy water, chilled wine or light beer. We recommend packing your picnic basket with stackable reusable cups, small plates, proper cutlery, fabric napkins and linen tea towels (to cover food while picnicking and wrap up plates afterwards).

DISCOVER KITCHEN + DINING

Tunes to picnic with

Depending on your picnic location you may wish to add a little ambient music to your outdoor dining. Our in-house part-time musician recommends jazz music for any type of picnic. His top pick is the timeless ‘A Kind of Blue’ by Miles Davis. Alternatively, you may just enjoy the sounds of nature, from beautiful bird song and children laughing to the gentle lapping of the ocean. Happy summer picnicking!