Petanque: Anyone for boules?

Despite losing its parkland flavour for an industrial look, Garden Place is still attracting tourists.

Last week, on a chilly winter morning, the petanque court hosted a local builder and a couple of Frenchmen.

Sebastien Desclaux and Tony Franceschin were in New Zealand on an extended walking holiday which had seen them stride through much of the South Island.

They were on their way to Indonesia but took time out to visit Hamilton while in transit to Auckland and the airport.

While having a coffee, the pair met self-confessed petanque aficionado and Hamilton builder David Searle. At the mention of petanque (or boules) it was game on - Garden Place took on a French accent in the frosty sun.

And the winner? Petanque was the winner, they agreed.