Spotlight on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Martin Duncan recommends hiking to Kondalilla Falls in the Blackall Range. Photo / Tourism and Events Queensland

Each week a New Zealand expat based in Queensland gives the inside word on their region. Today we hear from Martin Duncan, Owner of Freestyle Experiences, Sunshine Coast Food Ambassador and supporter of local food producers.

I always dreamed of running a cooking and art school with luxury accommodation in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and in 2008 it became a reality with the opening of the Freestyle Escape.

I am a real foodie and search for the best local produce. I love Richard Mohan's padron peppers and Trevor Hart's Cedar St Cheeserie in Maleny.

Also, cool Kiwi chick Sally Hookey's Hinterland Feijoas has marvellous food.

In fact, all the produce on the Sunshine Coast is amazing.

For great dining, try Berardo's on the beach at Noosa or Spirit House in Yandina. Also, Betty's Burgers at Noosa, Fish on Parkyn and Spice Bar at Mooloolaba are terrific.

If you are looking for somewhere special, you can't do better than The Long Apron at Spicers Clovelly in Montville.

Those looking for a bracing walk should try the Kondalilla Falls in Maleny.

When Kiwis visit, they love best-kept secret Andy Goldsworthy's cairn sculpture in the rainforest.

Try to plan your trip around unmissable events such as the Noosa International Food & Wine Festival (May) or the Real Food Festival (September).

Rest your head at the Montville Country Cabins. Their awesome secret is rain on a tin roof - they even have a rain maker when there is no rain. It's the best lullaby to fall to sleep to.

The Outrigger at Noosa is also nestled in rainforest.

The best place to be pampered is at Clinic Aroma in Buderim.

Casa Di Natura is an amazing spa hidden away in the rainforest.

This series is part of a content partnership with Tourism Australia.