Can you believe we are already three months into 2020? I guess it is true that time flys when you are having fun! But we still have one more month of summer, and we refuse to let it go to waste, with so much more events, concerts and activities happening in the city in March, there is no excuse to not get out and make the most of that blistering Auckland summer! and luck for you, we have rounded up some of out favourite events to get you inspired.
Auckland Fringe 2020
Easily one of the highlights of the year, Auckland Fringe is the catalyst for the most exciting, outrageous and unique events in the Auckland cultural calendar.
With a programme that’s open access and non-curated that has garnered a reputation both nationally and internationally, there’s truly something for everyone to sink their teeth into. Fringe festival is all about showcasing the country’s diverse range of art forms and creators of all ages, and a totally open-access experience that will bring the city to life with all forms of theatre, comedy, dance, music and everything in between.
The Book of Mormon
The Tony®, Olivier®, Grammy® and Helpmann® award-winning Broadway hit musical written by Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez, is coming to New Zealand for the very first time, and is not to be missed!
The play is a satirical examination of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ beliefs and practices that ultimately endorses the positive power of love and service, through a series of laugh-out-loud musical numbers and great set pieces. Since making its world premiere in March 2011 at New York’s Eugene O’Neill Theatre, where it won nine Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, The Book of Mormon has been performed on three continents and won over thirty international awards. The musical has smashed long-standing box office records in New York, London, Melbourne, Sydney and cities across the U.S – so get in quick if you don’t want to miss out!
Ports of Auckland Round the Bays
Ports of Auckland Round the Bays is New Zealand’s largest fun run, boasting over 29,000 participants each year – and growing! Our home is the vibrant city of Auckland, with the 8.4km course following the city’s picturesque coastline. Now in it’s 47th year, its a great way to get out and get fit, no matter your fitness level it’s great to say that you have been a part of New Zealand’s largest fun run!
Lenny Kravitz – Here To Love World Tour
One of the most successful and best-selling artists of his generation, Lenny Kravitz is bringing his famous brand of steamy rock and roll to New Zealand for the very first time!
Known for his undeniable, energetic gigs, as well as winning four consecutive Grammy Awards, Kravits has a huge reputation – and it’s pone he lives up to! Bringing all the classic hits along with the new music from his most recent album, Raise Vibration, where Kravitz elevates the union of rock n roll, funk, blues, and soul that’s not to be missed.
Are you visiting for business and expecting long days that could be draining? How about a vacation with the kids and needed the extra energy to get through the day? Obviously a good coffee is exactly what you need, and Auckland has (arguably) some of the best in the country, and because there is nothing worse than bad coffee, we have picked out some of the best so you can recharge right on your visit!
Bestie
We have to start off with a local favorite that has been popular with big-name celebrities that have visited the city! Easily the best espresso spot along Karangahape road, it’s the perfect stop for those heading out for a bit of vintage shopping, and best of all, their alternative milks are reasonably priced! The coffee at bestie is simple but perfect, Just a good cup of Eighthirty, skillfully prepared by a happy barista – pair it with some of their award-winning food and you have yourself a win-win.
Atomic Roastery Kingsland
A Kingsland coffee staple for years, it’s outlasted many of the old favorites on the strip, and the reason for this is simple. Atomic Roastery makes a bloody good coffee. A roastery, ‘Brew Bar’ and eatery all-in-one; the airy and modern interior is a great place to sit and enjoy a good, strong cup of roasted bean juice. Atomic has made a big name for itself not only in Auckland but across the country – for good reason.
Eighthirty
Speaking of business that has made a big name for themselves, since 2009 Eighthirty has slowly but surely become a favorite with coffee lovers across the country with their fantastic blend, cool industrial fit-outs, and expertly brewed coffee. With joints on K Road, Ponsonby Central, High Street and Anzac Ave, there’s bound to be an Eighthirty near you. If that’s not the case, you’ll find the much-loved brand in a handful of great cafes throughout the city!
Chuffed
If you are working in the city, this little hidden gem is the place to go to keep you well-caffeinated for the long day! Tucked away on High St, Chuffed has been brewing for a number of years now and has been topping some of the “best of” lists for a few years. A busy café with not only great food but also highly experienced baristas who take coffee very, very seriously. Their flat whites are great but their cold brews really deserve a special mention. They also have a great outdoor space with art spray-painted on the surrounding walls, making it the ideal spot to sit and take a break from the crazy city.
Summer romance is a staple of any summer, and if you are planning to visit us with someone special and you want to treat him or her right – then you have come to the right city! Brimming with so much on offer, for any price point, we have found three of our favorite date ideas to sweep your significant other of their feet.
Stardome Observatory and Planetarium
Let’s start this list off strong – Is there anything more romantic than a night under the stars? It’s a simple and peaceful idea, and luckily in Auckland, you can take your love to new heights with an evening at One Tree Hill’s Stardome Observatory and Planetarium, where you’ll be treated to drinks, canapés, and a stunning night sky show that pays tribute to the heavens’ most romantic objects. And we guarantee you’ll be feeling the love, even more, when you’re presented with a gift box containing an Adopt a Star pack and other charming goodies, also included in the ticket price. So grab your guy, or girl, and head along to see if your love is truly written in the stars!
Giapo
Maybe you want to keep it simple – how about Auckland’s most creative and delicious ice cream parlor?
This inner-city outfit definitely sets the bar for originality, serving up epic creations that are known just as much for their looks as they are for their taste, perhaps the ice cream in the shape of the Sky Tower, or maybe the one that looks like a giant squid. The flavours, however, are far from secondary—largely inspired by the owners’ Italian heritage and ranging from a delicious ‘bueno’ offering made with caramel, hazelnut praline and amaretti, through to ‘Cher’s chocolate’—a decadent scoop named after the American superstar who famously visited the store in 2018.
Westhaven Promenade Loop
Wanting to try something a little more active? Want to explore the city while spending some time with your loved one? Then this leisurely walk along the harbor is just what you need.
Take a stroll in the sun along the seven-kilometre Westhaven Marina, which begins at the Harbour Bridge end of Westhaven Drive. The wooden boardwalk parallels the harbor for seaside views of the Waitemata Harbour, Herne Bay Beach, and Cox’s Bay. In summer you’ll be greeted with blossoms of red pohutakawa in trees and coating the footpath! And the harbor is littered with restaurants, cafes and sweet shops that make it worth walking along at any time of the day – a nice day out of a romantic night walk – this is the cost-effective date or you!
We are two weeks deep into December and we are close to the festive time and New Years’ goodbyes and we have rounded up some of our favorite events to help keep you busy and soaking in the sun!
Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park
Gather your family and friends and celebrate the nation’s biggest free outdoor Christmas party! If you haven’t heard of this famous annual event, Christmas in the park brings the country’s top singers, dancers, and musicians together to ignite the big stage, performing your all-time Christmas favorites and hottest hits! This year’s line up includes Ladi6, Sons of Zion, Robinson, Vince Harder and so much more! There’s also great food, stalls, and fireworks on the night.
Once again Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park is supporting Youthline. Please be generous at Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park and buy a light stick or give a gold coin donation upon entry!
Christmas Lights
Want to get the little ones more hyped for Christmas, but also have them do some learning along the way? Then head out to MOTAT this December over twelve magical evenings when it’s heritage buildings, streetscapes and trams will be beautifully lit up with Christmas lights! There will be entertainment for all ages, including an outdoor ice-skating rink, and of course the opportunity to meet Santa and his elves and share in the magic of Christmas. There’ll be lots of things to see and do with live entertainment, indoor movies, tram rides, carollers, craft activities, Santa’s grotto and more! Best of all it’s affordable as heck – Just $2 entry fee per person, and children under 5 are free!
Christmas at Silo Park
Your much loved urban playground, Silo Park, is back and they are starting the summer season with 4 days of Christmas festivities!
From 20 Dec- 23 Dec they will have DJ’s, food trucks, entertainment, and games – we’ve even got carols for a sing-along! The Silo Park bar will be serving up delicious Christmas cheer and our mate Santa will be joining us for a few hours each day. There’s also the famous open-air cinema that kicks off with a user-voted Christmas classic!
New Year’s Eve at Sweatshop
For those that are a little bit older and want to head out top the biggest New Year’s Eve party in the city, look no further than Sweat Shop’s New Year’s Eve Party. Kick off the celebrations at one of Auckland’s largest outdoor decks, a prime spot to watch the Sky Tower’s fireworks display overhead. Sip away on a fresh brew or bubbles from our bustling bar, before dabbling in a dance with Auckland’s one and only The Beat Council and DJs.
SkyCity Boxing Day Races
It’s not boxing day without soaking in the summer sun at the races! Running for over 160 years, the most colourful fashion, high-octane racing, hospitality & family entertainment combines at the annual Ellerslie racecourse Boxing Day Races!
Iconic to Auckland’s social calendar, the SkyCity Boxing Day Races offer a winning trifecta of fashion, entertainment and some of the best thoroughbred racing on offer.
The Infield Family Zone is returning in 2019 and with it, some fun, free activities for the younger family members including free pony rides, a mobile barnyard and more. The perfect spot for a family picnic, children under 15 years of age get free entry into this precinct and you can use Ellerslie’s barbeque to cook your Christmas leftovers on.
Young, fun and keen to socialise at the races? Infield party precinct, The Paddock, is making a comeback complete with a full day’s line-up of DJs headed up by Jupiter Project!
Traveling up to Auckland this New Years and looking to see how the city brings in the new year? Then look no further, we have gone out and done some research and found some great parties, places and people to help start 2020 right!
Britomart Block Party
This iconic downtown party has been running for years and become a staple for those who love the Auckland Nightlife! Spread across 3 different iconic Britomart venues: Caretaker, AV Club and 1885, it’s a great way to experience some of the best clubs in the city. Featuring sets from Sigma, P Money, Dick Johnson, Aroha and many more—there is literally something for everyone!
NYE Black & Gold Gala Dinner
Looking for something less sweaty and cramped and more glitz and glam? Then head along to Stamford Plaza’s Black and Gold Gala Dinner where you can toast to the end of the year, whilst indulging in a menu to die for and cocktails galore. Think slow-roasted lamb, a whole barbecued angus sirloin, New Zealand and French cheese selection! It’s the perfect place to see in the year with some friends or a special someone, and have one of the best last meals of 2019!
New Year’s Eve At Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen
Want to rip it up on the dance floor, but also have the opportunity to see the New-Years fireworks at the sky tower? Then roll on over to Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen who (given the title of their bar) know how to host a pumping party! But this venue also has one of Auckland’s largest outdoor decks so you can take in the killer view of the Sky Tower fireworks as the clock strikes 12. There will also be live music provided by The Beat Council, DJ Styla, Joe Turk and DJ Lucas.
Northern Bass
Probably the most notable on this list, Northern Bass is a staple in the NYE festival scene for a reason, Hundreds of people from all over New Zealand and the world flock to Mangawhai every year to attend this 3-day festival. End your 2019 by dancing the night away to the likes of Fat Freddy’s Drop, and start 2020 as you mean to go on by listening to sick beats, moving your feet and digging into some tasty treats!
The New Year’s Eve White Party
Looking for something a little bit more ‘formal’ but still encapsulating the boogie? Then the Brazillian white party, which is taking over Princes Wharf,is the New Year’s party for you. Pop those bottles and sip on the champers to your heart’s content whilst getting your groove on to Brazilian-Latino Sertanejo, Axé, Pop, Rock and Reggaeton jams. Grab your best white outfit and go get your boogie on!
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.
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!
Sometimes when you are traveling you want to save a few pennies here and there, especially if you have put most of your money into travel, accommodation, and one core activity such as a concert. But luckily for you, Auckland is bustling with a pleather of activities that have little to no cost, and we have gone out and done the research for you! Here are some of the best cheap activities in Auckland:
The Lightpath:
She’s a relatively new activity but is fast becoming one of Auckland’s most iconic, mainly due to the bright pink bridge that is quite hard to miss when driving into the city! This path takes you on a fun and interactive walk across the Auckland city center stopping by iconic locations and offering views only available on foot – and this one is absolutely free!
Silo Park:
Auckland is called the city of sails for a good reason, and a walk along Auckland’s waterfront to Silo park will reveal exactly why. Silo park features a lot of things kids dream of including two playgrounds, the water, and a great viewing platform. There is also a selection of great restaurants and gelato ice cream if you do feel like breaching the wallet!
Goat Island Marine Reserve
The perfect low-cost summer activity is to grab some snorkels and togs and head out to the Goat Island Marine Reserve and explore the depths and watch the wildlife if the bustle of the city just isn’t for you, this one is tailor-made for you.
Cheap flicks
In the opposite season when the weather isn’t so great, sometimes you just want to be indoors, so why not catch a movie. Now, I know what you are thinking, movies aren’t exactly cheap these days – buts that’s where you’re wrong! Auckland has not one, but two low-cost options that won’t break the bank: Reading Cinemas offers $10 tickets for films, and Capitol Cinemas offer $11 Tuesdays as well!
Check out some local Live Music
For a unique night out, why not check out what some of Auckland’s local talent has on offer? You can find bands playing original songs for free, or at a low cost at such famous local venues as whammy bar, wine cellar and Portland public house. Usually featuring a wide range of talent and genre, these gigs can offer you something small towns can’t.
