Alice in Bakingland cookbook | Murray Lloyd Photography

After bringing armfuls of fresh baking home over the last couple of months, I will miss Alice and her kitchen. Alice has been fantastic to work with and her generosity showed no bounds. This was typified when on the last day of food photography she offered me a cake to take home. Aptly named Celebration Cake, Alice was celebrated when the cake was presented at a friend's house and held pride of place amongst fish and chips, burgers and a few beers.

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Although the styling here differs from the more refined book version, the inside remained the same - three layers of chocolate cake. For those who like to bake, look out for the book in the middle of next year.

Mad Hatters Tea Party in Wool | Murray Lloyd Photography

The inedible food at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party seemed very un-birthday partyish but after being served free tea and Kiwiana themed biscuits the mood became more festive. Although surrounded by tea cosies rather than mad hats this exhibition at the Kapiti Art Gallery resonated well with events on the other side of the world.

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Asparagus rolls and crackers at Mad Hatter's tea party in New Zealand

Wool crackers at Mad Hatter's tea party in New Zealand

Crackers at Mad Hatter's tea party in New Zealand

Wool sandwiches at Mad Hatter tea party in New Zealand

Kiwiana biscuit in shape of Kiwi

Kiwiana biscuit in shape of New Zealand

Wool food at mad hatters tea party in New Zealand

Wool food at mad hatters tea party in New Zealand

Walnut recipes by Ruth Pretty| Murray Lloyd Photography

Having only eaten walnuts sporadically I was intrigued to find although the nut has culinary use, the shells are used for making dynamite, oil paint, plastics and helping to drill oil wells. I am sure the dynamite discovery must have come from some lateral thinker watching the walnuts 'explode' from their husks before falling to the ground.

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Fresh walnut ripening on tree

The walnuts (roasted) go well with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Champagne...

Whole Parmiganio Reggiano cheese with cheese straws and champagne.

...but if you desire something tasty on a smaller budget try this salad from Ruth Pretty

Ruth Pretty's pear, celery and walnut salad with honey vinaigrette.