image above by julia rothman
last weekend amy and i spent some time looking at her giant map, plotting out all the points we wanted to visit as part of the d*s book tour. i’m not sure we’ll be able to physically visit as many places as we marked down, but i know for sure that i’m going to do whatever it takes to get to new zealand. so today i’m happy to be sharing a great city guide dedicated to auckland, new zealand! this wonderful guide comes to us from mel gregan, founder of blanket statements, and alisha sanvicens of seattleite imagery. i’ve so enjoyed reading through their suggestions for shops, restaurants, coffee spots, galleries, architecture and site-seeing- i can’t wait to check them out in person next year (fingers crossed!). thanks to mel and alisha for all their hard work!
CLICK HERE for the full auckland guide after the jump!
Auckland City Guide
Kia Ora and greetings from New Zealand! We’re delighted to put Auckland in the spotlight and show off a bit of this city we love. New Zealand never fails to evoke a slew of faithful images – epic panoramic shots of sweeping vistas, a cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc, a cheeky hobbit or two… but there’s so much more to be found in the lush nooks and crannies of New Zealand’s largest city. If you’re kicking around in the Southern Hemisphere we hope you’ll spend some time here and discover Auckland’s creative, indie and relaxed personality.
We love ourselves some good coffee (flat whites, please!), vintage homewares, Kiwiana kitsch and a bargain and Auckland treats us well in all of the above. Our list reflects our passions but also highlights many other design*sponge-worthy hot spots for your enjoyment. Please add your own Auckland darlings to the mix if we’ve left them out.
This guide separates Auckland into neighborhoods and offers a few gems in each to send you in the right direction. Absolute favorites are starred and we’ve focused on Kiwi designers throughout.
Now, without further ado…
The Perfect Day…
If you have only 24 hours before jumping into a camper van to live the Kiwi road-trip dream then better not sleep in! Here are our picks for one delicious day:
- Breakfast and a flat white at Sheinkin in the CBD
- Head next door to Jason Books and browse the vintage Polynesian and nautical book collections
- Swoop down High Street for kitschy Kiwiana souvenirs to be proud of
- Hit up K’road’s St. Kevin’s Arcade for vintage clothes, homewares and rising NZ designers
- Drive to Kingsland and Grey Lynn for more exploration of AKL’s creative scene
- Catch an early arthouse film at the The Bridgeway Cinema in Birkenhead
- Drive back to the CBD over the Harbour Bridge for a killer night view of the city
- Feast at Wine Chambers in the city
- Grab a glass of feijoa wine at Rakino’s to cap off a fine day in the South Pacific
More time on your hands? Fantastic! Let’s go in for the jugular…
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CBD)
The first thing to remember in this neck of the woods is that there’s more to the CBD than Queen Street. It may lure you in with its touristy temptations, sheepskins, kiwi plush toys and overpriced manuka honey, but don’t be fooled. The good stuff’s in the side streets and we’re going to expose a few of our favorites.
Parking, if you must
Parking can be a nightmare in the CBD, but if you must drive in, we recommend parking at the Atrium on Elliot. It’s a good location and a perfect excuse to stop by the Elliot Stables.
Order from one of the many vendors and take a seat in the charming dining hall. Reslau is great for coffee in the city. 34-41 Elliott Street
Housed directly above the Elliot Stables and furnished with beautiful Kiwi antique furniture, the Elliot Hotel is a great spot to stay in the city. Cnr Elliott and Wellesley Streets
OK, so we said to avoid Queen Street and we hold to that in general, but there are a few places that make it worth treading carefully on.
An Auckland institution offering Kiwi and international designers, fashion, jewelry, homewares and cosmetics. Established in 1880 as a drapery shop, it is Auckland’s oldest department store and it sure knows how to host a great sale. 253 – 261 Queen Street
This theatre was originally built in 1929 and restored to its incredible original state in 1999. The building interior is lush in a great vintage-styled velvet and gold kind of way. Our absolute favorite part is the New Zealand night sky that moves across the theatre ceiling during shows. Cnr Queen and Wellesley Streets
In Japanese, tanuki means raccoon, and judging by the atmosphere down here this is one hipster raccoon. Yakitori, sake and Japanese beer – Japanese-style cave dining at its best. 319b Queen Street
Fans of Amoeba Music will want to walk 5-10 minutes up Queen Street to pop in to this warehouse of mostly second-hand CDs from $1, boutique books, and second-hand clothing. 438 Queen Street
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki
The Auckland Art Gallery is made up of The Heritage Gallery, featuring contrasting portrayals of Maori and early colonial history, and The New Gallery, in an “Edwardian fusion” building and featuring, you guessed it, more contemporary Kiwi artists. Check out neighboring Albert Park when you’re done. Cnr Wellesley and Kitchener Streets and Cnr Wellesley and Lorne Streets
East of Queen Street is home to loads of lovely boutiques and where NZ designers flog their frocks, so a great place to add some Kiwi to the closet. There are too many to name but keep your eyes peeled going down High, Lorne, O’Connell and Shortland Streets and see which window displays lure you in. Vulcan Lane also offers healthy browsing. Some Kiwi designers to note include WORLD, Kate Sylvester, Ruby, Moochi, Zambesi and Karen Walker.
This utilitarian cafeteria is the place for brunch and your morning flat white. Once you’ve scanned the newspaper and filled the belly, head next door to Jason Books. You won’t regret it. 3 Lorne Street
Bibliophiles rejoice, this used bookstore is the stuff of dreams. Exposed brick walls, high ceilings, dreamy light – what more could you want? Books?! This place is well stocked with rare NZ, Maori, Polynesian and nautical books as well as the classics. When my friend recently named her newborn daughter Avonlea I stopped by, praying for a vintage copy of you-know-what and, lo and behold, a 1946 edition emerged. Jason has never let me down. 3 Lorne Street
Relaxed spot for an evening tipple. Get there for the lingering happy hour (3-9pm) and enjoy a very Kiwi sparkling feijoa wine on the balcony with live dj’s playing in the background. Level 1/35 High Street
A stylish spot for souvenirs to be proud of. We’re suckers for kitschy Kiwiana so this place caters to our fancies, in a beautiful rather than cheesy way. There are retro-inspired tea towels, tablecloths, North and South Island dishes, jewelry, ceramics and other hand-crafted items for the taking that celebrate NZ’s culture and people. 35 High Street
The Vault
Another spot for NZ-inspired homewares and gifts. They’ve got some gorgeous ceramics and funky Kiwiana clocks we’ve got our eyes on. 13 High Street
A family owned luxury boutique hotel with character. Their Housebar has been refurbished to reflect its art deco glory days and always seems to have a good happy hour and yummy cocktails. 2 High Street
Set in a stunning historical brick building in the heart of the city, the Wine Chambers is a great spot for dinner. It offers fine dining in a casual setting, and from entree through to dessert, the food is incredible. It is also a great stop for trying Kiwi wines, as 70% of its wine list comes from New Zealand. 33 Shortland Street
New Objects of Desire is aptly named. With Scandinavian styling, it provides desirable contemporary furniture and homewares at reasonable prices. Robust selection of gadgets and stationery and great sales! Britomart
Need more yum in the city? Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza for a tasty oasis and Ben’s Espresso for your next caffeine hit.
The decor of this new bar is a fab mix between a high-class modern hunting lodge and Kiwiana – a truly great combination. It is set in the old Downtown Police Station right across the road from the port and we are biased about this bar for two reasons. They quite often have a make-up artist in the ladies powder room on a Friday evening, not to mention the powder room is stunning! The second reason is that we saw Americas Next Top Model being filmed right outside it! Guys love this bar given its hunting lodge interior and its huge range of beers and ales. Cnr Quay Street and Britomart Place
Other deliciously well-styled drinking holes in the area worth dropping by include the Northern Steamship and Smith.
Some serious money was poured into the Viaduct Harbor area ahead of the 2000 America’s Cup and it’s still buzzing. Walk through if only to remind yourself why Auckland’s the City of Sails and see if you’re not tempted by a sunset drink overlooking the harbor at any of the bars and restaurants. Soul and Kermadec are always popular. Auckland’s all about the water so make sure you plan in a ferry ride to Devonport, Waiheke, Rangitoto or any of the other Hauraki islands serviced. Failing that, you can still gaze at the yellow Edwardian baroque Ferry Building and dream of future sea travel.
One more restaurant in the area, we couldn’t resist…
Honestly, what’s not to love about this place?! Before you even get in the door it affirms you with its slogan “love you long time”, written in brass in the pavement outside. It offers a great mix of incredible South East Asian cuisine. The staff dare you to try the famous Firecracker Chicken that stands true to its name. You have to see the decor – like the menu, it is a well blended mix of South East Asian tastes. Monsoon Poon, we do love you long time. 27 Customs Street West
Now, moving on…the next thing to remember is that there’s way more to Auckland than the CBD. K’Road is a good next stop for an inspiration hit.
KARANGAHAPE ROAD (K’ROAD)
K’Road’s not as seedy as it was in its 1970′s heyday but, even after regeneration, it’s still got some edge. You might not think it by driving by but there’s great vintage and homewares shopping to be done here. If you drive, park on Cross Street and check out the signs of creative life sprouting there before walking to K’Road.
Small but perfectly formed with room enough to sip a flat white, read design magazines and psych yourself out for St. Kevin’s Arcade. 22a Cross Street
This tiny space is packed with fun things for the home, from vintage and handmade products to kitchen wares and records. The owner doubles as a graphic designer and has a great eye for style. 22b Cross Street
Chinese antiques, knick knacks, vintage poster reprints, home décor items, gifts and more. We love the website and the store’s unapologetic use of red and neon. 17 Mercury Lane
St. Kevin’s Arcade is the perfect place to go to make your heart happy. Check out the following shops inside and browse away. 179-183 K’Road
The great big wooden tables in the airy arcade are the perfect place to pause with a flat white (of course!) and a newspaper. Shop 20 St. Kevin’s Arcade
I want my house to look like this store! And this store looks like a 1960’s time capsule. Guilty pleasure: even amidst all the Crown Lynn, vintage scarves and homewares I still was sucked into Aunty’s random Sweet Valley High collection last time I visited. A beautiful place to root around and be inspired. Shop 20 St. Kevin’s Arcade
A favorite! Life-changing!! What more can we say? Leather skirts, high-quality vintage, great prices, a dream. Go now! St. Kevin’s Arcade
More noteworthy shops in St. Kevin’s Arcade are Little Black Crown, Raven vs. Pony and Children of Vision and don’t miss the vintage cornucopia of Vixen No, 8 and psychedelic anime boutique Pleased to Meet You.
Cafes in the area include Revel and Verona.
Smells like cherries and with a Japanese feel, Iko Iko sells funky Kiwiana, brilliantly tacky wall clocks, colorful gifts, tote bags and locally made jewelry. 195 K’Road
Smells of plumeria and with a Polynesian feel, Buana Satu is like Pacific Islands Pier 1 Imports – the perfect place to inject some of the South Pacific into your home. 229 K’Road
Not a love shop, but filled with 1970’s loveliness. This is a walk-in closet of retro. 290 K’Road
We love the impressive rumpus room reenactment going on in this basement store. Come for 70′s homewares and groovy high-quality retro clothing. 151 K’Road
Auckland’s main showcase of contemporary art. 300 K’Road
FREEMAN’S BAY
This ex-bay quarter is walkable from the CBD and is worth going through en route to Ponsonby, the cafe and boutique mecca of Auckland.
Giant paint by numbers mountainscape mural, hearty selection of design magazines (we love Australian lifestyle mag Frankie by the way!) and superb desserts – Queenie’s is a local treasure. 24a Spring Street
Motorcycle shop, gallery and cafe all in one, naturally. Shed 5, 90 Wellesley Street
PONSONBY
For shopping and cafes, Ponsonby spoils you for choice. There’s a refreshingly low concentration of chain stores and something for most tastes. We’ve offered some highlights but this is a place to stroll and explore for yourself – there’s likely something to strike your fancy. Ponsonby is about a 20 minute walk (uphill) from the CBD (the walk up Franklin Street is a nice way to do it) or a 5 minute bus ride.
Stepping into this cafe induces hyperventilation. It’s the size of a broom closet but packed with beautiful things and retro wares. Like that Crown Lynn you spy? It’s yours – everything is for sale here so a very tempting destination. 181 Ponsonby Road
Come and gawk at the gorgeous displays or the beauty products displayed at this Auckland-based shop. Fine pampering from around the world. 175 Ponsonby Road
Eclectic display of Kiwi-made art, homewares, ceramics and jewelry. Good for high quality and contemporary Kiwiana. 95 Ponsonby Road
Unique and unusual homewares and gift shop started by a local mother and daughter team. 63 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby Village International Food Court
Cheap, cheerful and veggie friendly, this food court serves up Thai, Laotian, Indian, Turkish and Vietnamese among other cuisines. 106 Ponsonby Rd
A lively tapas bar in the shape of a rustic but swanky Spanish street scene, Bonita is hard to pass by without stopping for a drink or two. 242 Ponsonby Road
Great for a sunny Saturday morning with a friend. Breakfast here will start you off as you’d like to carry on. 256 Ponsonby Road
*Bambina
Another favorite Ponsonby cafe with a communal table, stacks of magazines and yummy treats. We could sit here for hours sipping coffee and people watching. 268 Ponsonby Road
NZ labels, shoes, accessories, coffee table style books and jewelry abound at this fun boutique that always stimulates creativity. 282 Ponsonby Road
Filled with wedding gift staples, Nest is the Crate & Barrel of NZ. Walk in to surround yourself with lots of wood, whites, glass and steel. 239 Ponsonby Road
Two more local favorites are il buco for casual streetside pizza dining and All Press Coffee for an excellent flat white on the fly.
Just a short walk from Ponsonby in St.Mary’s Bay is Mollies hotel. We admit, we haven’t stayed here, but since this luxury boutique hotel was rated “Best New Small Hotel in the World” they must be doing something right. 6 Tweed Street, St Mary’s Bay
GREY LYNN and KINGSLAND
Grey Lynn is Ponsonby’s shabbier, feistier little sister and a real charmer. The raw creativity, craftiness, colonial architecture and sense of local pride round these parts make it a good place to linger.
Flotsam and jetsam are the objects washed ashore after a shipwreck and this store attracts flotsam and jetsam of the highest standard. Great for finding unique home accent pieces. 168 Richmond Road
Not your grandma’s craft market! So, so much crafty yumminess to be found, with tons of Kiwi artisans showing off their stuff. Last Sunday of every month, 11-2pm; Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road. Every other Sunday the Grey Lynn Farmers Market meets here.
Savour and Devour
A great cafe decked out with vintage mirrors offering fine coffee, amazing cabinet treats and brunches to write home about. 478 Richmond Road
Ms. Sparkle is the real deal. She’s set up a boutique above the family vintage shop where she sells her luscious creations, as well as scarves, buttons, zippers, doilies and you name it. She’s only open from 1-3.30pm on weekdays so plan accordingly. 600 Great North Road (upstairs)
We’re obsessed with their light blue walls and white-framed mountain scenes. Sun-trap of a courtyard, but equally nice cheery atmosphere indoors for rainy days. 432 Richmond Road
A stunning vintage-styled bar with brilliant ambiance. A personal favorite for meeting up with friends. 455 Richmond Road
Kingsland’s only a short drive from Grey Lynn and the two places go hand in hand. It’s creative, a little unwashed and visibly gentrifying derelict chic, Kiwi style. There’s a lot to discover here and too many places so let yourself loose.
It’s like walking into the Brady Bunch, which we love. Fly by Night has a gorgeous range of clothes, boots, records, art and supplies for a 1970′s inspired Tupperware party. Always a pick me up. 500 New North Road
A fine addition to the Mac’s Brewbar family, we love their use of lamps in the décor! 498 New North Road
Native Agents were the fluent Maori speakers employed by the Crown to interact with Maori people during the colonial period, and this company uses that cultural interaction as inspiration in their designs. Celebrating the mixed heritage of NZ, Native Agent features, among other things, beautiful embroidered blankets and winter coats with Maori and colonial themes. 507 New North Road
Jewelry fans will love this converted art deco cinema showroom as much as the NZ bling on display. Look down on arrival because there’s an original floor mosaic from past glory days to greet you. 486 New North Rd Kingsland
For your Kingsland flat white it’s a toss up between Shaky Isles, Atomic Coffee Roasters and Roasted Addiqtion. Shaky Isles for the atmosphere and incredible brunch menu (love their vintage spoon collection!), Roasted Addiqtion for the mocha frappe and fantastic breakfasts (and buffalo burgers, the husband points out) and Atomic Coffee Roasters for a Fair Trade brew. Wherever you choose is a winner.
This place gets nothing but raves and is just the spot for the quintessential Kiwi pie experience. 507 New North Road
You’ll smell the garlic and hear the buzz of happy diners from Grey Lynn. The 1980′s Chinese scenery prints and light pink tablecloths add to the simple charm. 477 New North Road
Another small but growing craft market to stop by and support the crafty people of Auckland. Holy Trinity Church, corner of Sandringham and New North Roads
MT. EDEN and REMUERA DELIGHTS
These areas are pretty suburban but if you’re into vintage furniture, fabric and clothes they are worth delving into. Where Great South Road meets Market Road is an antiques alley and tucked away are two destinations for vintage lovers. If you’re in the area at sunset scurry up to the top of Mt. Eden to take in the view.
Take a deep breath before entry because this is like stumbling into your wealthy, eclectic aunt’s secret stash. The owner visits the Old World yearly to raid markets for high-quality European vintage goods. Anything goes in this treasure trove – thimbles, lace, costume jewelry, Victorian doll dresses, hats, some serious brooch action and other unidentified but fascinating goods. 85 Great South Road, Remuera
This showroom of things we love is the perfect place for anyone in the market for retro furniture, art deco lampshades and lamps, Crown Lynn, 1960s artwork, wool blankets or Pacific Island kitsch. And who’s not in the market for that, really? Quality products, reasonable prices. 89c Great South Road, Remuera
It’s worth driving another 5-10 minutes to get to the craftastic Salvage in Mt Eden next.
We seriously recommend all vintage fabric lovers stop by to bulk up their textile collections. The owner acquires new goods all the time, ranging from sweet Scandinavian to Japanese kimono fabrics. Also great for doilies, lace, buckles, buttons and vintage patterns. 537 Mt. Eden Road
PARNELL
Parnell is a polished suburb next to the CBD and is packed with culture and art galleries. The Domain should satisfy any green space cravings you might have after too many hours pounding pavement.
Ethical atmosphere heaven! This locally owned cafe flaunts not only amazing ambiance but has a conscience too – it’s all Fair Trade organic coffee and vegan-friendly dining in these parts. Love the Tiffany blue ceramic mugs, fresh flowers on the tables and the funky, tool-shed conversion vibe. 492 Parnell Road
The Domain is Auckland’s sprawling park placed conveniently atop the cone of an extinct volcano – perfect for city viewing. In the summer, head here with a picnic on Sunday afternoons for Music in Parks, a fab and free outdoor jazz event in the Rotunda. The Wintergardens are also worth checking out, with their two glasshouses filled with flora and a sweet little courtyard. From all over the park you can see the gorgeous Auckland War Memorial Museum which is definitely worth visiting for Maori exhibitions, cultural performances and galleries that tell the story of New Zealand.
Another free event that we’re huge, huge fans of is Movies in Parks. These outdoor movies on giant, inflatable screens are held in parks all over Auckland from February to March and have a real local, community vibe.
Also worth checking out in Parnell, depending on the mood, are the 1950’s designed Parnell Baths, Parnell Rose Gardens, La Cigale French Market and the tons of art galleries featuring Kiwi artists. Take your pick!
NEWMARKET
Newmarket is one of Auckland’s main shopping districts and is a good place to go to expose yourself to Kiwi fashion and design. Nuffield Street is tucked away from the main drag and is a strip of upmarket boutiques and dining options.
* Kikki.k
LOVE this Swedish/ Aussie slice of stationery heaven that will leave type A creatives panting. Books on organization, printed to-do lists, meal planners, goal books and fabric covered storage solutions make us flip out every time we visit. 22 Nuffield Street
A big name Kiwi label that has also become big overseas – especially Japan! It really is a NZ staple that is unafraid of the well-placed ruffle with covetable jewelry lines also. 6 Balm Street
Another Aussie store sneaking onto the list, but we can’t help ourselves. With a coral powder room atmosphere it’s like stepping into a Benefit catalogue, complete with frills, bows and funky girly details. 37 Nuffield Street
*Mac’s Nuffield Street Brewbar
Warm and dimly lit, Mac’s is a visual feast. We love the plywood tree centerpiece, behind-the-bar vintage cabinet arrangement, firewood feature wall and of course the NZ brewed Mac’s beer. A great place to end the week with friends. 23-27 Nuffield Street
Once Nuffield Street’s ticked off, Teed Street is a natural destination to further your Kiwi design education. This area has blossomed in the last few years and is another great place to find Kiwi homewares and clothing designers. The main NZ fashion labels housed here include Kate Sylvester, Zambesi, Moochi and Ruby. Here are some homewares shops worth peeking into.
For “look-at-me” accent pieces sourced from France and lots of color. There’s a Bambini cafe next door if you need a breather after all the excitement. 25 Teed Street
Cool Italian design featuring their signature colorful plastic contemporary furniture. 35 Teed Street
NZ owned kitchen hardware and delights served up here. If you’re travelling around Oceania you’re probably not in the market for an AGA cooker, but if you are, this is your place. 13-15 Teed Street
Sweet showcase of NZ art and design, ceramics, homewares, glass, jewelry, cool Kiwiana, embroidered pillows and more for the home. 17 Osborne Street
EASTERN BAYS
The bays are a bit of an oasis in Auckland, a lifestyle superpower of sorts. If you’re lucky enough to be in NZ in the summer and are into sleepy beachy villages, a trip to the bays is a treat. Pohutakawa-lined Tamaki Drive is six miles of coastal goodness and is meant to be strolled, jogged, cycled or roller-bladed. A more relaxing method of enjoying the bays is plopping yourself down on one of the beaches (bustling Mission Bay, quiet Kohimarama or villagey St.Heliers) and soaking it all in with a bottle of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and a picnic.
Here are some of our favorite places for sustenance:
Café on Kohi and The Store offer amazing coffee, pastries, picnic items and gelato. 3 Averill Ave, Kohimarama
A charming local favorite for take away Fair Trade coffee and ice cream. 8 Maheke Street, St. Heliers
The view of the bay and Rangitoto Island is hard to beat and the muffins with fruit are perfect for elevenses. 1 St.Heliers Bay Road, St. Heliers
We have a special place in our hearts for this cafe run by Taiwanese hippie artist Freddino. Check out the peaceful, artsy courtyard with East Asian flair. 14 Turua Street, St. Heliers
Not only an incredibly important location in the history of New Zealand Maori land rights, Bastion Point is a stunning reserve with views of the Waitemata Harbour and Rangitoto Island. It is only five minutes from downtown Auckland, and also houses the Marae (meeting house) of the local Maori tribe, Ngati Whatua. The Maori name for this spot is Takaparawhau (pronounced Tuck-a-pa-ra-foe).
THE SHORE
Over the Harbor Bridge some treasures await! Here are our picks for Birkenhead and Northcote.
Birkenhead is about a 10-15 minute drive from the city if traffic is on your side and is home to beautiful colonial villas and stunning harbor views. Get situated on the Shore with a cuppa and prepare for further expedition at Ravenhill or Flavour Deli, both on Hinemoa Street. Flavour Deli is styled with French and English antique furniture and Ravenhill is a lovely butchery conversion. The choice is yours.
Since The Tea Lady was born out of a “love of fine tea, cupcakes and all things gorgeous and vintage” you know we’re all over it. Put the kettle on because this refreshment room is utterly charming! 100 Hinemoa Street
If it’s a vintage brooch or Kiwi haute couture you’re after then you’ve come to the right boudoir. This place dizzies with antique sparkle action and there are some beautiful pieces to be found if you have the time and the money. Passionata’s fine things are often used in NZ magazine photo shoots and can even be hired out, should the need arise. 215 Hinemoa Street
Just down the road is the fortunately placed Northcote Point. Take in the view and then take in a film…
Bridgeway Cinema
A dazzling little cinema backing onto, as the name suggests, some incredible views of the Harbour Bridge. Bridgeway is a great stop for an arthouse movie and glass of Kiwi wine. 122 Queen Street, Northcote Point
Antiques and Angels
Since you’re here and all you might as well stop by to see the pleasing collection of European and Chinese antiques, homewares and decorative items in this corner shop. Last time we were here Mel scored a vintage police whistle for her Boy Scout belt – what luck! 130 Queen Street, Northcote Point
WEST AUCKLAND
A bit of a haul from the city (30 minutes) but so worth it. We adore this collection of vintage fabrics, clothes, tea towels, Maori prints and glorious Kiwiana. 717 Swanson Road, Swanson
Further out west are some gorgeous black sand beaches such as Piha (where The Piano was filmed) and Karakare that are worth a day trip. If you do go try and drive through Titirangi, a tree-laden mini-paradise in the Waitakere Ranges that will melt any bohemian tree lover’s heart.
AROUND AUCKLAND
If you happen to be a little north of Auckland on a Saturday morning, stop by the atmospheric Farmers Market in the attractive village of Matakana. The whole village gets involved with the event and you can get your hands on organic produce and meats, locally produced beer and wine and lots of vintage goodness.
Waiheke is a 45-minute ferry ride from Auckland and is a fantastic place for a holiday within a holiday (how lavish!). Vineyards cover the island and in autumn the vine leaves turn a spectacular electric red. If you want to stay the night the Kiwi way, rent yourself a simple and charming bach or holiday home.
Well, that’s it from us. We hope you enjoy Auckland and look forward to hearing from you!
About the authors:
Mel Gregan is a proud Kiwi and the founder of Blanket Statements, a boutique home accessories company showcasing her vintage kiwiana creations. Mel uses hand embroidery, sketching, appliqué and knitting to create hot, statement products. Her website is here: www.blanketstatements.co.nz
Alisha Sanvicens is a Seattleite writer who has been living in the UK for the last four years and moved to New Zealand in December with her Kiwi husband. She blog about creativity and expat life here.
52 Comments
Ah this is an ace guide! We went to a great cafe called Good One (sorry if you mentioned it already!)
http://www.beanhunter.com/cafes/review/good-one
Fabulous! I’ve lived as an expat in Auckland for 7 years and now I have a whole bunch of great new places to explore. Thanks so much.
Wow. Thanks so much for this. I am moving from London, UK to live in Auckland in just 3 weeks time as my husband has been offered a job transfer and now I know exactly where to go when I get there. Seriously, this kind of knowledge is invaluable. I won’t know any people there, but at least I now know some places to go where I might meet some like minded souls! Can’t wait to check all these places out. Thanks again x
We recently went back home to Auckland for a visit after being overseas for 6 years and it was fabulous to see new and old favourites again. If you are heading to Matakana, stop by ‘Mrs Jones’ store in Warkworth. Thanks for this great city guide of my hometown.
I would follow Alisha anywhere.
Thank you Grace, for the ability to write the guide for Auckland City. Alisha and I are huge fans of design*sponge. We both also love shopping in Auckland, so it has been a winner all round for us! Thanks again xxx
Oh, too bad for me you didn’t post this a couple of weeks ago when I was visiting Auckland. I did manage to find some of the places listed though.
I really enjoyed my time in New Zealand, and would definitely go back if I get the opportunity.
great thorough work here! these gals must be pros. ;)
Great guide!! Can’t wait to go to New Zealand and use these suggestions!!
Thank you for such an awesome guide. My goal is to try all of these fab suggestions before the year is out!!
- Expat Brit in Auckland
So awesome! Stoked to know and have visited 90% of these. Well done! A fabulous collection of places to visit. (I got some awesome shipping ephemera from Jasons books on my blog). x
Wow this is soo cool to see some of New Zealand on here! I have been reading this blog for a year now, and its so great to see some of where i live :D Thanks Mel and Alisha. x
Amazing list! Makes me want to skip work, jump in the car and drivee on up there…thats right I’m a kiwi!! (and proud…!!!). Looking forward to seeing a guide based on Wellington, NZ! Keep up the good work!
Awesome! I’ve lived in Auckland most of my life and can safely say I didn’t even know half those places existed. However would love to ad there’s a great market on every month (possibly soon to be every week) and Cassette Number Nine, just off high st on Saturdays. It’s a great little nook and definitely worth going to take a look.
LOVE it girls!!! Congratulations Mel & Alisha for an EXTREMELY extensive guide to amazing Auckland city!!!! Can’t WAIT to follow your tips for ‘one delicious day’ – but I’m thinking I’m going to need MORE than just 24 hours!!! hehehe!!!!
My home town! Some great suggestions here. Although I’m surprised Waitakere didn’t really feature. If you have a full day to spare you must head out to Titirangi Village and Piha/Karekare to see the amazing beaches and drink the amazing coffee! Looking forward to the tour. Georgia x
Wow Mel, what a great guide! It inspires me to get out there and explore my own city even more!
Love this! I live in Auckland and didn’t know of half these amazing-sounding places, thanks for a brilliant piece! It’s so cool to see NZ on this great blog too.
Thats a primo guide, the only thing missing is galbreiths, if your in Mt Eden / City / Kingsland stop here for an ale. It’s a cool local brewery.
Love it!! I live in Auckland and love that we have so much available. I love that also one of my favourite blog sites ‘Design*Source has Auckland featured. Sharing the LOVE x
…other design stores to check out in Ponsonby would be Republic Home. Always have new amazing stuff from homeware to fashion coming in all the time with great visual stimulation.
I recently moved to NZ. Can’t wait to check out the places in Auckland!
oh oh oh! off to NZ north island in july for a quick snow trip and have a day in aukland before flying out again, this guide couldn’t come at a more appropriate time!
It was so hard to narrow down all the choices for this guide – Auckland’s got SO much going on! Glad people are enjoying it. :) It was an absolute pleasure to write!
Cassette Super Markets on Saturday mornings outside Cassette Number Nine are definitely amazing! Great to see a guide about my home town, these places are the best.
What a wicked guide! A million more places for me to explore! Thanks!
LOVE IT girls!!!!!!! Ohhh I just feel like rushinig off to ST Kev’s arcade right now!!!!! And I am so going to Jasons on Saturday!
If anyone is heading over to Takapuna cafe which is a definate must….stop in at Verde Garden Cafe along the way. So girly and LOVE the little cakes and club sandwiches! Always sends me on a baking frenzy!
What an awesome guide!! I’m an Aucklander and love so many of the places you’ve listed and can’t wait to visit all of the ones you’ve mentioned that I haven’t been to yet. Good work.
Wow guys what a great guide, I’m going to be busy for weeks and weeks!! Those kiwiana cushions on your site Mel are wicked. So glad to have found it, been looking for such stuff for ages!!
So exciting to see Auckland on here! I glad you know we exist! Another great place is Widdess, 177 Ponsonby rd (just around the corner from Agnes Curren) for delicate, beautiful, feminine clothes
Yay! Thanks for the good work, both! And a shout out for Shaky Isles coffee house in Kingsland, opposite Native Agent. And vegan cupcakes from SAFE’s Cruelty Free Shop, St Kevin’s Arcade, K’Rd.
Wow, so many places in Auckland I didn’t know existed – brilliant! Another place I’d mention for dress fabric-lovers is Global Fabrics at 139 Newton Road. If you’re on K’Road it’s just a quick couple blocks up Symond’s Street at the beginning of Newton Road (or end maybe!). Well worth a look for the beautiful fabrics and great prices. Then you can pop across the road and see the beautiful windows at Sharondelier.
Just wanting to know if you guys could do a city guide on Hamilton, NZ; a town about 45mins from Auckland? I’m moving there in about 3 months and would love to know what’s to do/ where to go around there??!!
Ladies, thank you for this! I am thinking of making the move to Auckland and now this has made me even more excited about the idea! Love your work :-)
THE DEPARTMENT STORE is an absolute must. It is the most exciting and unique retail experience New Zealand has had to offer in a looong time. Check out http://blog.thedepartmentstore.co.nz/ to see what I’m talking about.
We love Maggies General Store in Oranga Ave Oranga. Maggie cooks from scratch and her family make your coffee and wait on your table. The food and coffee is fantastic but the people are even better. You can pick up a few little deli items to make your own creations in the kitchen. My friends and I love to sit in the window booths and watch the world go by.
I CRY – New Zealand was never this cool when I lived there. I am convinced this is the collective efforts of my friends back home to convince me to move back after 6 years – AND ITS ALMOST WORKING. Crafternoon Tea? Seriously!? I live in London and nothing is this awesome. NOTHING. Mostly because it involves getting on the underground in the weekend… which is just not happening.
Anyway, I love this, and thanks for contributing to the every growing list of blogs making me fall back in love with my home nation.
xx
Di
ps I’m pretty sure the Piano was filmed at KareKare?!
I recently moved back to Canada from Auckland (living in Kingsland, K’Road, and Titirangi). All of those places listed in the guide are terrific. My personal faves are Alleluya in St. Kevin’s arcade, Neighbourhood Pub on New North Road in Kingsland, and The Occidental (Belgian Beer pub) on Vulcan lane in the CBD.
Have a wonderful time!
Cassette 9 is fantastic! Cocktails in teapots – YES PLEASE!
http://www.cassettenine.com/
This is great! I just spent six months in New Zealand on the South Island, it was absolutely amazing!
What a great selection! Auckland can seem so lame if you don’t know where to go!
wow, there were loads of places I didn’t know about, and many I forgot about since having kids. What an amazing guide, thanks for inspiring me to get out there and explore again.
Great guide! Lived in Auckland for 6 years and your guide gets me long to go back. Leaving NZ made me truly realise what a creative and inspiring place it is.
This is a pretty cool bar as well:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=11182677732
On K Rd.
Wow! I can’t wait to visit next year!
I love this blog, so Happy to see our little Aotearoa on here. There are some beautiful florists in N.Z, check them out.
WOW…what an *e-x-t-e-n-s-i-v-e* list of great shops; (think I’ll have to go check some out). For anyone planning on doing Auckland central shopping, you got it covered!
this is my home town too! definitely makes me miss auckland, now im living in melbourne.
you have covered it all! a very good summary for out of towners! Also, salvage in mt eden is closing.
And what about Devonport? You haven’t been to Auckland if you haven’t been to Devonport, it’s so quaint and such a great place to go on a Sunday morning for a coffee (Try the hotel by the wharf). Not to mention Mt. Victoria and North Head – both great places to look out at the city.
Also, Salvage, the vintage fabric store, has now closed.
also for food: coco’s cantina on k rd – possibly one of the nicest tastiest and coolest bar/restuarants AK has to offer. Mondial (french wine bar & restaurant) in Grey Lynn – feels very homely and authentically european – always buzzing.
Then there’s a new bar in ponsonby – the Golden Dawn (corner Richmond & Ponsonby) – old fashioned cocktails, and a lovely outdoor courtyard.
While at Piha go to the Piha cafe (very cute interior, and good coffee from Supreme – the guys that own the equally cool Good One)
And last but DEF not least! Someone you’ve featured here, Workroom in Clevedon, and Rebecca’s new city based store, Douglas & Bec. Enjoy xxx
COCOS CANTINA:
http://www.cocoscantina.co.nz/
MONDIAL
http://www.mondialbar.co.nz/
PIHA CAFE:
http://www.thepihacafe.co.nz/
WORKROOM/DOUGLAS & BEC:
http://www.workroom.net.nz/news/
Loved the guide! Auckland (and NZ) have changed for the better since I lived there – except that it’s hard to get a real scone and a pot of real tea now. When we visited family recently, we stayed at a great B&B in Ponsonby called the Greater Ponsonby B&B. Great location, staff were fabulous, and we felt at home. Just saying….
Awesome list! I would add the Swiss Konditorei bakery in Avondale and the downtown Library bar (actually has shelves upon shelves of real books).
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