Joy Sushi is a sushi shop at 56 Main Street in Pahiatua, Tararua, holding a 4.8 rating on Google, with details shared through its Facebook page. Good sushi stands or falls on its rice: lightly seasoned with vinegar, made through the day, and served at room temperature rather than straight from the fridge. New Zealand sushi shops typically fill their cabinets with hand rolls and packs — teriyaki chicken, salmon and avocado among the usual favourites — and regulars know the early birds get the choice fillings before the lunch rush clears the tray. Nori should be crisp rather than chewy, rice fluffy rather than dense, and anything that has been sitting since morning is best passed over. It is takeaway food at heart, made to be eaten the same day. For a small Tararua town, a well-loved sushi counter on Main Street is a handy thing for Pahiatua locals and travellers passing through alike.