Just come back from a family dinner here. We chose it by address and type of food so we could save everyone a long drive, and all find something to eat. Friendly staff, lots on the menu, good specials. Service was a bit slow but with only 1 person on the floor (Thusday), we should have expected it.

Approximate cost: $16

Helpful staff for every query whether it is a CD I can't find, or assistance with sound equipment. Staff are young and enthusiastic, always polite and knowledgeable. If they don't know the answer, then a quick call to the back room finds someone who can help. Its my first port of call for music and movies.

This is a family business and they like to remember you and do a good job. They take your details for their database so nothing ever gets lost or forgotten. They're honest if they think something is too badly stained to clean well, but I find they do a great job even in these situations.

My school uses these people to make small presentation gifts when the students graduate. I can fax or email the order with all the details for each plaque, they keep the school logo on file, and it all happens without any fuss. They used to be in Ashburton but the new premises are bigger.

Claudine & Carina basically make PJs out of weird and wonderful fabrics. They fit everyone, source special colours and fabrics, and are fussy about details. I had a pair of PJs made for a pregnant friend and I can bring them back to make smaller if she wants.... then I bought a mad summer dressing gown for myself and cant wait for winter to be over to dazzle the neighbours when I get the paper.

We took our German Shepherd and two cats here, and they looked after them all for 2 weeks. Our dog needed eye drops and we KNOW she got them because her eyes were great when we picked her up. The cats were glossy coated and calm. They even lent me a lead when I forgot mine.

Tracy was recommended when our first dog-washer retired. She rings the day before to make sure we remember, makes a note of whatever problem she finds (sore ears, lumps and limps) if any, and best of all our dog thinks she's her very best friend. Tracy visits every 4 weeks in summer and every 6 in winter.

Approximate cost: $35.00

I took them a huge poster that I wanted to keep, and they mounted it faultlessly on MDF, painted the edges black, attached picture mounts and cord. And it was ready exactly when they said it would be.

I have to say that I hate going to the dentist,but these people are quick, polite, calm and understanding, plus they seem to do a good job. I still dont enjoy the experience, but they're much nicer than where I used to go. They've moved from beside Brighton Beach railway station to beside Hampton railway station......... they must have a thing for funny shaped buildings.

We always drop into this little restaurant after an early movie at the Rivoli because its just across the road (and up the little street) and you can always get a seat for two. The pizzas are fresh and tasty and the specials board usually has a vegetarian choice too. Wine by the glass.

Approximate cost: $12.00