Lukka Jones is a powerhouse: the first woman canoe slalom paddler to represent New Zealand at an Olympic Games, World Championship medalist and four time Olympian. The current national champion is ranked number one in New Zealand, and recently added author to her impressive resume.
She has co-authored new book Sustain: Plant-based food for active people with Olympic rower Brooke Donoghue and nutritionist Christel Dunshea-Mooij, with practical advice and recipes for those who want to embrace a plant-based diet and stay at ‘peak performance’. The project came about following the postponement of the Olympics in 2020, and proceeds will be donated to The Waterboy, a charity that supports more Kiwi children to participate in sports.
Jones lives an active life in Rotorua, having moved back to the city last year (she lived there for five years in her early 20s). She shares her food and sports-influenced guide to her new hometown.
What’s so great about Rotorua?
Rotorua is a pretty special place to live for somebody who is into the outdoors! We are spoiled for choice for places to train and adventure.
There are five beautiful lakes in which to paddle or swim within 20 minutes of my house. The Kaituna River spills out of Lake Rotoiti and is one of my favourite places to paddle. To top it off, the Whakarewarewa forest is a world class mountain biking Mecca and is right here on our doorstep.
Where do you go for a workout?
Park on Long Mile Road, and head into the forest on any of the signposted walking tracks. Run past 100 year old redwood trees under the forest canopy. If you don’t mind a bit of uphill, then follow the Pohaturoa track up to a trig point. Catch your breath as you take in the views over Rotorua, before heading back down.
The restaurant you’ve been going to for years?
I am a sucker for Saigon 60’s, a small, authentic Vietnamese restaurant on Fenton Street. You will like the casual atmosphere and they are always brimming with happy customers. I don’t often stray from their Vietnamese salad with lemongrass tofu. If you are extra hungry, you won’t regret the summer rolls.
Best place for breakfast (and what is it)?
Okere Falls Store has an incredible menu. My favourite breakfast has to be the chilli scramble: scrambled eggs on sourdough with sweet chilli, coriander and toasted coconut and sesame seeds. I pair that with an oat milk flat white and I am a happy girl.
Best ‘cheap eat’?
If it's a fine evening, and you are not at burger night, head to the centre of Rotorua town centre to browse the night markets. You'll find a wide selection of local vendors selling delicious street food, and there is often live music to add to the cheerful atmosphere.
Favourite restaurant to visit with friends?
Again, I would have to nominate Okere Falls Store. While it could technically be called a cafe, there is a big beer garden out the back with a spectacular choice of drinks (be aware of options paralysis!). Head out there for dinner on a Thursday and you might find yourself participating in burger night, where they have a selection of three burgers that change every week, always including a tasty vegan/vege option.
Where do you go for some relaxation or a beauty treatment?
If you want to relax in a wooden hot tub, and have a drink while admiring the beauty of the surrounding forest, then head to Secret Spot. It's not really a secret, as it's a popular place to treat yourself to a relaxing dip. But it is a must do if you’re visiting the city.
Where do you go when you’re after local art or design?
If you are at the Rotorua night markets, or at the arts village, be sure to check out local potter Kaeleb Ngatai (@kaelebskups). He crafts the most beautiful coffee cups, of which I have quite a few!
• Sustain: Plant-based food for active people, by Lukka Jones, Brooke Donoghue and Christel Dunshea-Mooij, $45. Published by Bateman Books
