Hop from holidays to haute cuisine

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 287, 23 May 1989, Page 13

Hop from holidays to haute cuisine

A.former Auckland travel agent is making a name for himself in the Waimarino, as a restaurateur.

Alan Crossman opened Parklands Restaurant for business early last month, which features a revised menu and revamped interior. Mr Crossman said he is working at creating a good local following so will be aiming to operate for longer hours and keep prices low. The menu which changes regularly features a wide selection of meals including lasagnes and curries, as well as many of the old favourites. Mr Crossman has incorporated the theme of the upstairs art gallery into the restaurant. Patrons can dine in style in relaxed surroundings, amidst floral arrangements, pot plants and paintings. He said he intends to stock the gallery with arts and crafts and increase the line of paintings, as an added attraction for patrons. Mr Crossman said he is realising a dream, to operate a restaurant in a ski resort area. Business is gradually building up he said, after an eight month period when the restaurant

was closed. He is also operating the take-away bar incorporated in the building and says the business is attracting a regular clientele. The restaurant is open for breakfasts and

light meals six days a week, and for main meals three nights a week. These hours will be extended he said, when the restaurant is fully established. Tlje former travel agent has toured extensively in Europe and

America, and worked in Australia for 10 years promoting New Zealand as a holiday destination. He was also involved with setting up the country's first Dutchstyle 'clock auction', for cut flower dealers, in Auckland.