Johnny Clark, the 30-year-old third-generation owner of Nins Bin, a family-owned crayfish shop, is the heart and soul behind this iconic caravan parked along a coastal road in the South Island. Every day, Johnny is up at the crack of dawn, fueling up his boat, the Blade Runner Catamaran, and heading out to sea to check the 50 crayfish traps. He meticulously baits them and hopes for a bountiful catch.
A Day in the Life of Johnny Clark
By 10 am, Johnny is back at the shop, weighing and cooking the freshly caught crayfish, ensuring they are ready for eager customers looking for a taste of the ocean. With a commitment to quality and service, Johnny strives to never sell out, a testament to his dedication to his craft.
The Love and Challenges of Running Nins Bin
Despite the early mornings and long hours, Johnny finds solace in the beauty of the fishing days when the sea is calm and the catch is plentiful. However, he acknowledges the harsh reality of the job when faced with inclement weather and the pressure to keep the shop open for his loyal customers.
When asked about his passion for the job, Johnny reflects on the joy of connecting people with the best crayfish and fish and chips they’ve ever had. The satisfaction of seeing happy customers enjoying his fresh seafood keeps him going, even on the toughest days.
Balancing Work and Life
While most of his summers are spent working seven days a week, Johnny dreams of taking a break and going overseas for eight weeks to unwind and relax. He jokes about becoming rich one day and enjoying a leisurely winter filled with maintenance on the sheds and boat.
Despite the challenges and sacrifices, Johnny’s dedication to Nins Bin shines through in his commitment to providing top-notch seafood and memorable experiences for all who visit his shop. So the next time you find yourself in KaikÅura, make sure to stop by Nins Bin and savor a taste of Johnny’s passion for the sea.