We usually tend to cover a handful of popular and wide range of events that are coming up in the new month, but this time we have decided to do something a little different, with a few strange and different events coming up in March, we look into this quirky events to convince you to give the, a try!
Cross Sreet Music Festival
Located one street back from Karangahape Road, Cross Street is best known for a market packing hand-crafted gifts, one-of-a-kind vintage treasures and nicknacks.
This March, a block party will take over the strip with one heck of a lineup. Legendary hip hop act Ladi6 will take the stage with The Alpha Sessions, a concept which sees her improvise material live on stage and deconstruct catalogue classics.
Also on the bill is Auckland psychedelic rock group Racing, Dunedin chill-pop band Marlin’s Dreaming, post-punk act Yukon Era, lo-fi pop band Créme Jéan, producer/composer/drummer extraordinaire Julien Dyne, and Wellington’s Zuke (Ed Zuccollo).
Between the raucous live entertainment will be support DJs Frank Booker, Soraya, Hudge, Dylan C and Christoph El Truento to keep the dance floor humming. Rounding things off, there will be a seated area lined with food trucks, shopping galore courtesy of The Cross Street Market and walk-ins at Sunset Tattoo if you are tempted by some fresh ink.
This event is perfect for hipsters and all those who are fans of the creative and want to support local music and creatives.
The Ferment Festival
The process of fermentation is praised for the production of good bacteria which can improve digestion, boost immunity and promote a healthy weight. The country’s leading producers of gut-friendly goods will come together at Queens Wharf this March for Auckland’s first celebration of fermentation.
The aptly-titled Ferment Festival will round up over 60 small producers crafting products that have been fermented at some point in their lifetime. The festival will be set up like a farmers’ market, allowing ticket holders to wander as they taste samples or buy products direct from producers. You can expect specialist probiotic cheeses, kimchi, wine, kombucha, cider, cured meats, kefir, chocolate, yoghurt and bread.
Not the most common or normal festivals, but this is one that will be a can’t miss for those that re fans of eating right and want to educate themselves on a time honoured tradition.
The Auckland Coffee Festival 2019
Auckland is known for its coffee drinking, so it only makes sense that we have a festival celebrating every bodies favourite bean-based caffeinated beverage! This festival is a love affair of all thing coffee, showcasing the best of the bean from roasters, baristas and enthusiasts from all over New Zealand and the world.
After three sell-out events the New Zealand Coffee Festival returns to Shed 10 in March. Across two day you’ll have the chance to sample the best boutique brands with creations from local espresso legends, test out the latest barista machinery and up your knowledge at dedicated coffee seminars. No Auckland event caters to coffee lovers like this one, so if you’re a caffeine fiend — don’t miss it.
One of the great things about Auckland is how much of a creative hub it is, you will find all sorts of original, unique and hand crafted things at your disposal that are locally made. If you are visit g from overseas or just want to take something home to remind you of a great trip, don’t go to cheap souvenir stores, take a morning off to explore some of these great local markets:
Mt. Eden Village Craft Market
Let’s start off with ne that pretty much covers what you need to know in its name. The Mt. Eden Village Craft Market is a fortnightly market with an amazing selection of hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind gems. Held on the second Saturday each month right in the centre of the village, stock up on locally-made crafts.
Matakana Farmers’ Market
We are all for supporting and enjoying local produce, and why not go to a market that has great view? With a place to sit by the river, take in the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy the sun, the Matakana Markets are a firm favourite. The stalls feature Italian-style sausages, locally-brewed beer, fine wines, and organic chocolate, as well as live music and fresh ground coffee to really kick-start your weekend. Don’t forget to take a wander around the town centre and see everything artisan Matakana has to offer. This market is on every Saturday at the Matakana Square.
Auckland Night Markets
We can’t really talk about markets without name-dropping the. OST famous and well known markets, famous for their diverse offerings, and with six different locations full of every type of food stall you can imagine, the Auckland Night Markets make it so easy to beat your hunger. Grab some friends and make a night out of food-truck-hopping this month.
Huge Pop And Rock Vinyl Record Sale
This one pops up every few months, so you’ll want to try and time it right! For those who like the classic crackle of a record, or serious collectors, you’ll be happy looking through thousands of records at affordable prices, including everything from David Bowie to the Beatles to Pink Floyd.
Pop-Up Vintage Market
One of Auckland favourite breweries also hosts some pop-up markets from to,e to time that are worth the visit for clothing, hats and posters from Percy’s Vintage, Percy’s Headwear, Rain City Vintage, One World of Sport and more. It’s a cash-only market, served with fresh beer.
Alberton Market Day
If you are looking for a market with a little bit of history attached, look no further! Held at the historic and beautiful Alberton House, this outdoor market features speciality produce and handmade items with entertainment, food stalls, coffee, flowers, plants and even a pop-up tea room on the veranda. Stroll through the quaint gardens, sip on some kombucha and be in to win a huge hamper of goodies all provided by the stall holders.
One of the reasons many reasons people choose to stay with us (especially return customers) is our location right by the water. And who can blame them? There’s something beautifully calming about the water, especially in the evening with a nice meal and a drink or two!
In this blog we are going to recommend some of our favorite places in the city to wine and dine by the water, so you can get planning some romantic nights by the water!
THE CRAB SHACK
We obviously have to start here, we can’t make a list about dining at the water front and not mention seas food! And let me tell you, The Crab Shack is the one spot you need to satisfy your crab cravings from the cheaper options, to the more expensive (The King Alaska Crab), but it also makes it hard to say no for either lunch or dinner with its daily special deals. Perfect for a snack or meal after a long day of exploring!
GRANGERS
This one is a little closer to us, looking over Half Moon Bay’s promenade, Richard Cooke and Gina Henry’s sunny tap house is down-to-earth home cooking with the touch of refinement that is matched with a beautiful light-filled space adjacent to the boats that fill the marina. Grangers has quickly become a local favorite for their large selection of local craft beer and wine, if you are looking to enjoy some home-style cooked food and sink a few drinks while watching the sunset across the harbor – look no further.
FISH
This aptly named eatery is located in the city on the end of Princes Wharf, FISH mixes uninterrupted views of the Waitemata Harbour with a fresh seafood experience. Fish’s menu will be a great pallet cleanser for those visiting the country or those wanting some local flavor as it features foods traditionally grown in the Pacific mixed with the French style of cooking.
MORETONS
Another great eatery by the water that is just a shrt drive from the motel on Tamaki Drive, is Moreton’s. This beautiful bar comes with its picture-perfect view of Rangitoto. Mortens is the perfect all-day destination that can work for all different types of visitors. During the day it is the perfect place to visit after a few hours of exploring the waterfront and is the perfect spot for a hearty meal or sneaky beverage for that adventuring refuel. The menu has everything you could ask for, seriously, there are nine different sections, and that’s not even including dessert, drinks or the kid’s menu.
For those looking for somewhere to end the day and have some drinks by the water, Moreton’s turns into a great waterfront drinking spot. evolving into a gastropub/sports bar hybrid. The drinks list includes mostly mainstream beer and cider varieties, though there are a couple of hoppy craft brews.
A lot of times in our blogs we cover things happening in the city centre and surrounding areas, but one of the great upsides of being located in Kohimarama is that there are some amazing hidden gems located a few minutes walk from the motel. One of these smaller suburbs is Mission Bay, this small waterside township is a few minutes walk from the hotel and is brimming with life and local favourites. So let’s have a deeper look into why!
The Good George Craft House
If you are a fan of craft beer and good cuisine, then boy do we have the spot for you. This roof top bar and restaurant is fairly new, but has quickly become a local favourite. With 18 beers and ciders on tap, both the core range and seasonal varieties are on offer, we recommend giving them all a try with the tasting paddle. If you aren’t a beer fan, don’t worry, there’s even a frosé cider on tap.
Feeling peckish? Wile away a lazy afternoon with some modern pub-style eats from their new menu. We love a sharing platter and there’s something for everyone here, whether you’re into mussels and meats, or classic charcuterie board. If you’re after a pub favourite, you can’t go wrong with Good George’s beef and chicken burgers, they also have vegetarian options that are equally as mouth watering.
If that’s not enough to convince you, it’s worth visiting for the view alone, the craft house features a sun-soaked deck that overlooks Mission Bay and Selwyn Reserve.
50s Flavours and Themes at Bald Eagle
If you are after a dining experience that mixes American classics such as milkshakes, waffles, burgers and Southern fried chicken and a decorative the, that takes you back in time, then you are going to fall in love with Bald Eagle Diner! Complete with checkered floors, vinyl booths and a jukebox, you’ll think you walked on to the set of Grease. Sip on a milkshake (there’s 11 flavours to choose from) and listen to the rock ‘n’ roll tunes late into the night.
Soak in the Sun at the Fountain
Not every experience needs to come at a big cost, if you want to take the family out to enjoy mission bay and save a little money then head to Selwyn Reserve which borders the beach and The Promenade, making it the perfect picnic spot. There are plenty of places to set u in the park where you can enjoy the historic fountain and head for a dip when it gets too hot. If you don’t feel like taking your own food, don’t stress, the reserve is minutes away from takeaways such as Andrea Ristorante Italiano, who offer both authentic Italian pizza and classic fish and chips. Alternatively, grab a healthy noodle fix from Otto Woo.
Get Out On The Water
Head to Mission Bay Watersports (found in the beachside carpark) to book anything from a half-hour paddleboard hire to spending all day in a kayak. No experience needed, the team even offer introductory lessons and fitness classes for those wanting to nail stand-up-paddle-boarding. They also offer sunset kayak across the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto, where you can hike up and catch the surreal sundown view from the summit.
Summer is in full force and with the heat and clear skies comes the usual roll-out of summer festivals, and Auckland has a proud history of being host to some of the best festivals in the country, featuring a mix of local and international acts, if you are planning to stay with us over these times, it’s always crucial to book ahead of time, but before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s have a closer look at what’s coming to the city this summer season:
FOMO By Night
The summer festival that has been a popular staple in Australia is finally making its way to Auckland, taking over Spark Arena on January 9. FOMO By Night features top musicians that have topped the charts and are constantly pumping in our nightlife scenes. Acts including Mura Masa, Nicki Minaj, and local New Zealand DJs, The Katayanagi Twins. FOMO, Fear of Missing Out, is an accurate name if you miss this one.
Ellerslie Summer Race Day
A visit to the Ellerslie races is an Auckland summer must do, rock up with your own picnic basket with your favorite treats, enjoy a cold beverage of your choice, sit back in the sun and maybe even place your best bet on a racehorse. Summer Race Day has a more chilled out vibe than Ellerslie’s regular races and is a perfect activity for large groups visiting the city.
Takapuna Beach Summer Days Festival
The perfect day out for any beach loving family, this small festival by the water is a popular day outing everyone can enjoy. On January 19 from 11am, Takapuna beach brings in the new year in style and is truly kiwi: music, the beach and good food. From live performances and food trucks to keep your bellies full, lock it in your calendars for a classic Kiwi summer day.
St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival
Summer wouldn’t be the same without St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival. It’s the biggest and easily the most popular music event in Auckland, with so many people coming from across the country, its almost become an annual tradition for many. Just when you think this it has reached its peak, they outdo themselves the following year with a stellar line-up. This year we’re lucky enough to have international favourites such as Florence + The Machine and Courtney Barnett as well as local hitmakers Daffodils and Miss June.
Flamingo Pier
The best way to sell this festival is by describing it as a small Coachella on Waiheke Island. Held at the secluded Rangihoua Olive Grove, Flamingo Pier is where you can bust out your festival fashions and rock out to the live music on the open fields.
Splore
End of February marks the end of the long summer for Aucklanders and there’s no better way celebrate than hitting up the three-day festival, Splore from February 21 – 24. The Beths, Lady Flic and Forrest Bump are just a fraction of the mega line-up and it doesn’t just stop at music. Tapapakanga Regional Park is transformed into an art extravaganza from workshops, installations, wellness centres and a whole lot of love, so get amongst it.
Heineken Urban Polo
Wrap up the summer season at one of the bougier events Auckland has to offer. Watch a game of polo-otherwise referred to as the sport of Kings-while listening to live music at Heineken Urban Polo. Heineken has taken the classic sport of royalty and created a fusion event with urban live tunes with their impressive line-up including Kilter and Miami Horror.
One thing we can be proud of in our city is its diverse culture – and that diversity spreads to food. Having such a big city that sprawls across so many locations you are guaranteed to find something that pleases each dietary need.
With vegetarian and vegan diets coming more and more prominent, the city has adapted and some of the best restaurants in the city are vegetarian, so if you fall into this category, or just want to explore how the other half lives, here’s a guide to what the city has to offer:
Odettes Eatery
Odettes Eatery offers a menu that has it all and is enjoyed by people no matter what their dietary requirements are. Although Odettes is not a café that is targeted at the vegetarian public, they won’t let anyone miss out on a tasty experience. Cauliflower lentil and halloumi, wild mushrooms doused in whipped feta, vanilla crepes and maple granola with peanut yogurt are just a few of their many vegetarian creations. This hotspot is located in the city works depot for those looking to explore the city center.
Little Bird Unbakery
Located in both Ponsonby and Britomart, Little Bird Unbakery was one of the first in Auckland to introduce us to the raw vegan movement with their bird bowls of absolute health, superfood smoothies and of course, their raw cheesecakes and slices. Home of one of the best caramel slices in town, it’s hard to believe that these tasty treats aren’t only free of animal products but also refined sugar! The Unbakery also whip up the richest raw vegan raspberry and cacao brownie, which is so decadent and rich, you won’t believe that it’s made from only natural ingredients.
Lord of the Fries
If you’re looking for a burger but avoid both meat and dairy, look no further than Lord of the Fries. This 100% pure vegan fast food joint doesn’t fool around with food and has created what many of us thought was impossible. Their mock meats make you forget that you’re not actually consuming any animal products—and they don’t just stop at burgers and fries. They serve uploaded up hot dogs, onion rings, nuggets and fried “chicken,” making Lord of the Fries the ultimate cheat meal eatery for the vegetarians of Auckland. With locations in queen street and k’road, this one is an easy find.
Ralphs
Located in Mt. Eden, this offering mixes American inspired diner food with a vegetarian twist. Ralph’s vegetarian sloppy joe with nacho cheese, jalapeños, and lime cream is one that will stay in your minds as it’s just that good. Located in Mt. Eden, Ralphs will quickly become a guilty pleasure for all those who enter.
There’s no doubt that Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s most popular suburbs to visit, for both locals and out of towners. Ponsonby is most known for its boutique fashion stores and bars, but also for being the hub for some of Auckland’s best restaurants.
The selection in Ponsonby is a diverse one filled with kiwi classics, award-winning eateries, and restaurants that evolve into night clubs as the night beacons. We have had a good look across the internet to find you some of the most popular selections for you to pamper your pallets with!
Honeybear
Located in Ponsonby’s crown jewel of dining, Ponsonby Central is Honeybear, which brings with it a new nuance of Southeast Asian cuisine to Auckland. Honeybear brings the fresh and fun flavours of Burma to Auckland, The Menu is bustling with all kinds of Burmese-Indian fusion dishes— including a local favorite: poutine! And if you decide that this is the beginning of a night out exploring Ponsonby, then you can’t finish the meal without diving into Honeybear’s cocktail menus which feature mixes named after Maharajas.
Little Bird Unbakery
I already know what you are thinking, what is an unbakery? Well, as it turns out it is a heaven for health-food lovers – All food is raw, organic and free from gluten, dairy, soy and cane sugar. But don’t start thinking that this is at all a roadblock for deliciousness, because that’s not the case at all, the food here is creative and most importantly delicious. Highlights include kimchi pancake, chia bircher and spiced chestnut waffles, and pizza – which they run specials for daily. The drinks range is also equally diverse and healthy, featuring favourites such as a large range of smoothie offerings, chocolate drinks, matcha-based drinks, cold-pressed juice, kombucha and more.
Food Truck Garage
Not only is this food truck renowned in Ponsonby, but it has also made a name for itself across the city for one popular reason: healthy fast food. Yes, you read that right, this food truck mixes the divine mouth-watering taste of fast-food and removes the guilt that comes with consuming it – it’s a win-win situation. Ask anyone and they’d tell you that the food truck is most famous for its beetroot burger, and for good reason too, filled with juicy goodness, you’ll instantly be under its spell. The menu also features new burgers; chicken crunch and epic veggie, as well as burger bowls packed between salad-stuffed lettuce cups, and hassleback fires.
Mr. Toms
This newly opened bar and restaurant has quickly become a Ponsonby favourite, giving its fellow Ponsonby eateries a run for their money. You’ll see why as soon as you open the menu which focuses on rustic pizzas, cocktails, and an approachable atmosphere—on the sunny side of Ponsonby Road. All the furniture is handcrafted in Raglan and the lovely, passionate staff will offer an experience so great that you’ll probably find yourself there until late at night as the nightlife takes over.
Sometimes it’s hard to pack in exploring an entire city into one day, and with a city the sprawls as far as Auckland, ours can be especially hard! If your time is limited here in the city of sales and you want to experience the most of what Auckland has to offer, then many would suggest hoping a bus, boat or helicopter and take in a tour! We have done a little research and selected five tours that are well worth your time!
If you want to dedicate a whole day to explore the city at a leisurely pace, taking in all famous hotspots the city has to offer, then look no further than the full day Auckland Scenic Tours. You’ll start the tour off driving across the famous harbour bridge and along the Auckland waterfront (see why we are called the city of sails) as you are taken to your first destination: Devonport! You’ll be able to take photos of the city that are saved for postcards and advertisements as you reach the summits Mt. Victoria and North Head. This tour also takes you through the top shopping hotspots and historic locations such as in central Auckland and the Viaduct before you travel out West with a stop at the breathtaking Muriwai Beach to see the Gannet Colony. You’ll finish your tour, as all good days should, with a trip to a winery or the historic Riverhead Tavern – which is one of the country’s oldest pubs, with the second oldest liquor license.
Maybe you’d just like to get up in the air? For those who want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, this one is for you. You’ll get a look at the beaches of Auckland, the Sky Tower, and you’ll get to soak in the view from one of Auckland’s many (extinct) volcanos. You’ll also be dropped off for some fine dining, and the helicopter waits for you! This truly is a tour for those wanting to show off a bit of money.
Fine Wine Tours
Yes, there is no way we could make a list about tours without appealing to those who like a tasty drop and a good meal! Fine Wine Tours bring over 40 year’s experience with their guides, as they take you on a food adventure that includes a seaside morning coffee at Pt. Chev, tours through to fine food stores, wineries, vineyard, and markets. You’ll be packed to the brim by the end, but don’t worry, you’ll also be gifted a goodie bag of authentic New Zealand foodie items so you can keep reliving the magic for days to come!
If you feel like eating while burning off some of the food at the same time, then why not take a walking food tour? Eat Auckland offers walking tours of different varieties which include a walk along a lane of authentic Chinese eateries in Balmoral, or a tour for dumplings in the heart of the CBD or experience the fine dining of Ponsonby! This company has a walk for all taste buds!
In past blogs, we have given you guides to some of the most common places to visit in Auckland for first-time visitors, taken you to some of the best restaurants and walks outside of the city, and found the best way to save money on your visit. Our next guide to exploring the city will take you to some of the best-kept secrets in the inner city.
Academy Cinemas
If you want to treat yourself and your partner to a romantic night out that wraps up with a movie – but want to avoid the usual chain theatres, then look no further than Academy Cinemas. Located under ground beneath the Central City Library, this boutique cinema has only two screens, one classic full-sized one and a smaller sixteen seat theatre.
Academy chooses to skip the typical Hollywood blockbusters and instead showcases a diverse selection of indie films from both domestic and local distributors, and if you time your visit right, you might even be able to catch one of their famous and much-loved movie marathons. Hot tip – visit on a Wednesday for a five-dollar film.
Hard-To-Find Books
Truly an iconic Auckland favourite and a must visit for all bookworms is the legendary hard-to-find bookshop. Located off the main streets in a renovated old Victorian brick home, this bookstore takes a bit of adventuring to find, but once found, you’ll be glad you went. This book shop is not only called hard-to-find because of its location, but also for the collection it contains over one hundred and twenty thousand books, some of which are extremely rare – and you guessed it – hard to find. Well worth sacrificing a couple of hours to explore and for the friendly and well educated service, its well worth a visit to this Auckland institution.
Freida Margolis
Located in a historic building that was once a butchery for over one hundred years Frida Margolis is now transformed into a secret little wine bar located in the heart of Grey Lynn. You’ll fall in love with this the exposed brick walls, wooden European-esque seats and quirky paintings adorning the bar. Drinks include boutique wines, craft beers and mulled wine in the winter.
The Kimchi Project
How does the sound of delouse Asian-fusion eats in a spacious, covered courtyard tucked away in the heart of the CBD? Well we have the place for you – The Kimchi project offers everything from kimchi dumplings and pulled pork waffles to soft-shell bao and beef bulogogi stew. Worth a visits as it is located in high street, the small one way street located just off Queen street that hides a series of off-shoots and paths containing some well-renowned boutique shops and restaurants making it one of Auckland’s most popular secrets.
Being so close to ferry terminals makes it easy for you to explore what Auckland has on offer, including some of its most iconic and beautiful little villages, and in just ten minutes you’ll find yourself in one of Auckland’s cutest little villages: Devonport. This quaint little seaside town is postcard pretty, but it’s not all looks, this village has a lot to offer with its epic bars, cafes and restaurants – and we have made just a small selection of things for you to explore to get you excited about exploring:
North Head Tunnels
Feel like getting some exercise in while having a little history lesson? Devonport is home to Head to North Head and explore the dark tunnels that are placed on a long extinct volcano. The tunnels were created as early as the 1800s and soon developed across many different world wars as a way to be one of the country’s first defenses against coastal invasion. As a result, some cannons and shooting sights and prisoner barracks remain prime for exploration.
Vic Theatre
This seaside theatre sells itself as one of oldest theatre in the Southern hemisphere, this theatre has been around for a long time and has managed to maintain its heritage by sticking to its vintage look, which in turn makes for quite a unique and romantic date night. Don’t worry, despite the vintage look, the theatre still features all the modern furnishings: Big screens, comfortable seats and choc-top ice creams!
Devonport Chocolates
Calling all chocolate lovers! We have the one and only reason you’ll want to visit Devonport: boutique quality handmade chocolates and truffles that both look amazing and taste just as good! This store has everything to make your inner child spring outside from crazy flavors to chocolate figurines, these chocolates are the perfect reward after a day’s exploring, or to just full that empty space in your heart!
Devon on the Warf
Speaking of food, ask any local and they’ll send you to this Turkish-inspired restaurant that is located right by the water with stunning views of the Auckland Harbour and beyond. You can either start or end your day here (or both if you love it as much as we do!). The décor mixes homely wooden tables and chairs with a geometric-tiled floor and bright light and greenery. The bar features a selection of beers, wines and cocktails as well breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that are equally creative as they are delicious.
Shopping In Devonport
Devonport is a heaven for those loving a good vintage find and book Cosi Fan Tutte is where you can find vintage pieces that are completely unique, and both Bookmark Secondhand books and Paradox books feature such a wide selection of reads, you’ll accidentally be in there for hours!
