In preparation for Bastille Day, Capital Times finds out why many Wellingtonians are going French.

WELLINGTON interest in French culture is on the rise, thanks to an increase in the number of French restaurants that give New Zealanders a taste of the country, says French enthusiast Catharine Franks.
She’s part of a French conversation group that meets once a week to discuss everything from movies to food.
“My friend [Bobbi Gibbons] arranged a meeting in a pub with a few people who spoke French because she was trying to learn it, and I brought along Marlise Legras (the French ambassador’s wife) because I thought she would have some expertise,” says Franks. “Marlise then asked if we wanted to meet at her house. There are about 15 of us who come, and Marlise insists we speak French.”
The group are a colourful mix of cultures, from Kiwi and French, to Italian, Swiss, and Brazilian.
“Sometimes it’s hard for Kiwis to understand all the accents. At a French restaurant recently asked if I was Swiss, so maybe I’ve picked up an accent,” laughs Franks.
The group have had cooking classes in French à la chef Angela Martin, wife of the head of Alliance Française, they often go to French movies, and some have been on holiday together.
“I think Kiwis have become interested in food and wine, particularly in Wellington, and there’s been a real growth in the number of French restaurants,” Franks says.
The group has been invaluable in many ways, both in friendships gained, and the language itself.
While Franks’ French was “terrible” when she started the group, she can now hold a conversation, and listens to the news in French.
“I got an MA in French from Canterbury University 30 years ago, and I haven’t really done any since. I’ve now gained confidence to talk about day-to-day things,” she says. “Two years ago I had the confidence to go to France on my own because of the group. We also went to France this year. It was the time of the ash cloud, and the trains were on strike, so it was really helpful to be able to speak the language.”

It’s all about the French
JULY 14 is a special day for the country of berets, cheese, and frogs. Bastille Day (formally La Fête Nationale) is a French national holiday that commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789. The fortress was known for holding political prisoners whose writing had offended the Royal Government. The attack symbolised the ending of a monarchy and the birth of the Republic. Many around the world celebrate Bastille Day including Wellington’s French community.  Below is a list of activities you can do to join in.
• Exhibition Charles de Gaulle, Une Vie showcases the work and life of Général de Gaulle, and is on at Alliance Française until 18 August.
• The Ruby Lounge on Bond Street is putting on a French party to celebrate Bastille Day, with music from Afro-Beat, Crazy Fat Brazilian and Zirigidum.
• See French movie The French Kissers at Paramount Theatre, and French films at The New Zealand Film Festival (opening 16 July) include, Certified Copy, Gainsbourg, Ne Change Rien, Farewell, and La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet.
• Sample French delicacies at Bordeaux Bakery on Thorndon Quay, Simply Paris on Cuba Street, Francois in Thorndon, Le Metropolitain on Cuba Street, and Hippopotamus in the Museum Hotel, which is offering a French feast menu for Bastille Day.