The inspiration for Chloe’s Coffee Shop in my Wattle Lane novels came from one of our local cafes, Port ‘O’ Call, situated in the picturesque village of Ahuriri. To view their website click here. Port ‘O’ Call has a wonderful vintage tearoom in one half of the shop, a place where you are transported back to the fifties, with food served on pretty vintage china.

You can choose your own vintage teacup, for your tea or coffee, from the lovely display on the shelves behind the counter.

It is hard to decide what to choose, from the Devonshire cream teas, to the delicious cakes and slices and freshly baked breads.

The mouthwatering food is adorned with flowers, adding a touch of romance to the delightful setting. My pot of tea came nestled beneath a charming knitted tea cosy, like the one I use at home that my mum knitted more…