A fortnightly series about those moving here to call Central Home.

Central foodies know "French food isn't just a meal; it's a way of life," and in a small Central town two Frenchies have been making a mark.  

Friends and co-owners of Omakau’s Muddy Creek Cafe are Alice Caron and Marie-Caroline Dubois. Alice hails from Toulouse in the southwest of France and Marie from Provence. 

The pair have owned the business since October 2022, but have been in New Zealand for more than ten years, leaving their home for adventures, working and soaking up their OE (overseas experience). 

Alice said they met in 2014 in Arrowtown and their friendship led them to business ventures together.  

First they sold smoked salmon at The Remarkables market in Queenstown (where she met her partner organic farmer Brendan Lopez) and then to Muddy Creek.

Last week Alice received her New Zealand citizenship in a special ceremony at Central Otago District Council chambers. 

Pictured (from left) are Carter Mitchell, Scott Mitchell, Alice Caron and Geoff Moore at the citizenship ceremony. PHOTO: The Central App

She said it was a lovely ceremony and she was surprised at how emotional she felt.

“I really feel torn between the two countries, but I’ve been here for 12 years so it was an achievement too.”

Alice said she missed friends, family and the culture and heritage aspects of France.

“I could talk about France for hours… you can go and see a medieval castle, or explore ancient caves.”

The peacefulness of life here, the landscape and the kindness of the community are the main reasons she has stayed.

“Then there is the tramping, the hills, visiting remote huts… that’s a big part of what I love here.”

The pair have been holding French Nights which feature one long table, a set three course menu with treats from their home cuisine.

They’ve held Korean and Mexican inspired evenings which have been well attended too.

Outside of work Marie has been training with the Waka Ama Manuherikia Wahine team. 

She said she loves the sport and learning cultural aspects, it’s great training keeping her fit for being a chef and on her feet all day.

Marie (centre) is a member of the women’s crew. Pictured here she is in Wānaka for the winter kayak series last month. PHOTO: Lu Ann/ Waka Ama Manuherikia Facebook

The crew is training for the 2025 Vaka Eiva Regatta in Rarotonga, and for one of the races paddlers make a 36km trip around the island.  

Read more: Central Home: From the French Navy to Alexandra. 

Read more: Central Home: Ice rink attracts GPs from USA.

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