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gather & hunt is an online directory, magazine and event guide about this surprisingly sweet place we live in: Auckland city.

DIRECTORY
We’ve compiled a searchable database of our favourite places to eat, drink, look and play around town, it’s called the gather & hunt directory. Have a browse, you might find something new.
SEARCH THE DIRECTORY

STORIES
We’re big fans of chatting to interesting people who are doing interesting things. We write the stuff down and put it into our stories section. Take a look, have a read, roll your eyes and smile (maybe).

READ A STORY OR TWO

NOW NOW NOW
We know better than anyone that boredom can be a problem in modern life, so we made an event guide to keep up with what’s going on (and to let us know what we could be doing).

UNCOVER EVENTS

A RANDOM SELECTION FROM OUR DIRECTORY:

Vulcan Lane Bagels

A cheerful hole-in-the wall cafe serving delicious bagels, treats from Scratch Bakers and Atomic coffee

Cake & Co

A sweet little cake and coffee shop where you can give in to temptation without the post-treat guilt

Mi Vietnamese Baguettes

A tiny, bright take-away spot serving delicious báhn mì, made as you order from fresh bread and hand-picked herbs.

The White Rabbit

A surprisingly spacious inner-city escape serving food and drinks exciting enough to brighten any morning, afternoon or night

Ima Deli

A traditional Israeli deli filled with cheeses, cured meats, dips and a wonderful Tel Aviv-style breakfast menu

The Lunchroom

An urban refuge in which you can sip on Kokako Organic coffee and eat a beautiful meal all with a view of the busy world below

Apero

A cosy local wine bar with a lovely wine list and delicious, simple French menu featuring the best local ingredients

ZOOL ZOOL

A simple, welcoming restaurant serving some of the best ramen in town

Scarecrow

A specialty food store and cafe serving fresh salads and tasty dishes for breakfast and lunch alongside Kokako Coffee and Nice Blocks

Meadow

A summery, modern eatery hidden in the Meadowbank shops with fresh produce delivered each day from its own farm

Woodworks

A spacious cafe right out in the suburbs serving casual French-inspired cuisine and Supreme coffee

Chinoiserie

A casual bar on an unlikely corner in suburbia, serving cold beers and Gua Bao and spilling all the good vibes right out onto the street

Odettes Eatery

A gorgeous casual bistro with a delicious shared menu and great service, coming here feels like going on holiday

Misters

A spacious, cool spot with a fast, wholefoods menu that's designed for busy people in need of sustenance

Dilecta

A warm, friendly neighbourhood bar and restaurant with a great wine list and a menu filled with heart, comforting fare

The Shelter

A spacious concept store with local and international fashion brands, homewares, locally roasted coffee and tokyobikes

Siostra

A lovely, warm neighbourhood restaurant with hearty comfort food designed for long, lingering meals

Euro

A waterfront institution that's serving up a menu that's focussed on health and well-being as well as deliciousness

Waffle Supreme

A cheery street stall offering traditional Leige and Belgian waffles with indulgent toppings, and eighthirty coffee

Boy & Bird

A joyous, fun casual eatery specialising in free range rotisserie chicken served in a multitude of ways. It's family friendly too.

Little and Friday After Hours

A very special food store with a rotating menu of hearty, homemade takeaway evening meals, sides, salads and desserts

Best Ugly Bagels Newmarket

A Newmarket version of Al Brown's beloved institution, serving freshly made bagels and Havana coffee

Kaffeine

A lovely little cafe with simple, well-made sandwiches and Best Ugly bagels, and great Kokako Organic coffee

Cassia

A sleek yet casual contemporary Indian restaurant created by one of the city's most celebrated chefs

Little Sister

A fun, neighbourly cafe with a south-east Asian influenced menu, amazing donuts and Kokako Organic coffee

Freida Margolis

A gorgeous local bar with boutique wines, craft beers, tapas and a piano sitting quietly in one corner

Willow

A surprise in a sea of concrete, this crisp, bach-like cafe has a familiar yet still surprising menu and Millers coffee

Dear Jervois

A spacious, welcoming cafe with a huge menu, amazing waffles and Supreme coffee

Bolaven

A beautiful, modern space with an innovative cafe menu inspired by the food of Laos

Better Burger

A no frills burger joint offering made-to-order burgers using local ingredients for a stupidly cheap price

Mondays Wholefoods

A picturesque little laneway cafe with delicious, nourishing wholefoods fare and Supreme Coffee

Roskill Coffee Project

A not-for-profit cafe run by the local community serving fairtrade People Coffee, delicious sandwiches and baked treats

Hallertau Brewery and Restaurant

A family-friendly craft brewery and restaurant, serving delicious healthy but fast food

Heaven Scent

A lofty, light cafe with views over St Patrick's Square, incredible gourmet pies and eighthirty coffee

Lot23

A gallery, cafe, studio and workspace with a hearty menu,great cabinet food and Brazil coffee

Burger Burger

A little, loud, fun restaurant serving simply perfect burgers using local, fresh ingredients

Rosie

A stylish, light-filled neighbourhood bistro with hearty, fresh and seasonal dishes

Heart of Flavour

A spacious patisserie and cafe with delicate artisan French-style desserts and a small blackboard menu

Tonic Room

A crisp, beautiful modern apothecary and health clinic with a focus on natural health and beauty products

Welcome Eatery

A crisp, friendly cafe with brilliant coffee, a seasonal menu, and heaps of space to work or chat in

Chuffed

Another world in the heart of the city, with an innovative menu and lovely coffee

Gusto at the Grand

A warm, welcoming Italian bistro in a sparkling hotel lobby that serves exceptional, theatrical food

The Return of Rad

A sophisticated toybox of a cafe with some of the most unusual flavour combinations in town

Goodness Gracious

A perfectly formed cafe and bagelry that's exactly what it says it is, with a few surprises thrown in

Ariki Store

A friendly corner store and cafe with Allpress coffee, homemade milkshake syrups and great sandwiches

The Mustard Kitchen

A bright food bar filled with crispy, delicious pies, fresh salads and donuts all made with care on site

Terrarium

A store and studio filled with makers of beautiful things from handbags to cushions and chocolate

Try it Out

A simple, authentic restaurant serving wonderful, affordable Vietnamese food that's worth the trip

Nice Day

A tiny, awesome espresso bar and cronut purveyor tucked down a sweet lane in the CBD

L'oeuf

A design focused café with one of the most original menus in Auckland

Twisted Tomato

A welcoming local restaurant with truly delicious and intriguing dishes and a great wine list

Supreme Seafarers

A cafe and shop filled with carefully curated, beautiful things to eat, drink and buy from the team at Coffee Supreme

French Revolver Studio

An inspiring studio concept that includes a hair salon and an art gallery in one

Whites and Co. Vulcan Lane

A central outpost for all things Collective Dairy, from fro-yo to strained Greek, creaming sodas and parfaits

The Third Eye

A glittering treasure trove of a store that's well worth putting some time aside to explore.

Charlie & George

A roomy, fun cafe with a generous, fresh menu and a whole lot of heart

Masu Japanese Restaurant & Bar

A spacious, stylish Japanese robata restaurant with brilliant food that offers more than a few surprises

D&M Hair Design

A chic salon filled with a friendly, passionate team who really know their stuff

Everyday Needs

Shelves filled with everyday objects from all over the world that double up as pieces of art.

Miss Clawdy

A colourful, friendly southern style restaurant with tasty, well-priced food and a great cocktail menu

The Nathan Club

A sleek, character-filled event space in a beautiful heritage building at the heart of Britomart

La Cigale Bistro

A market on the weekends that turns into a wonderful, cosy French bistro from Wednesday - Friday

Scullery

A friendly spot with delicious salads, Three Beans coffee and incredible baking from Scratch

Ginger Meggs Emporium

A minimalistic, well-designed hair salon with family history and heart

The Sugar Club

A luxurious fine dining restaurant by Peter Gordon on the 53rd level of Auckland's iconic Sky Tower

Oh Calcutta

A beloved neighbourhood restaurant that serves some of the best Indian food in town

PIA Boutique

A tucked away boutique with dresses in every colour of the brightest rainbow

Baduzzi

A casual Italian restaurant specialising in handmade Polpette (meatballs), with a menu created by celebrated chef Ben Bayly

Non Solo Pizza

One of the most authentic Italians in the city, perfect for large groups and long lunches.

Federal Delicatessen

A bright New York Jewish style delicatessen with authenticity and personality in abundance.

Johnny Feedback

A corner coffee shop with a bright yellow coffee machine, Supreme coffee and perfect lunch treats

Little Bird Summer Street

A delightfully simple space where the passion for raw, organic, creative and delicious food is contagious

Q Theatre. Cafe. Bar

A theatre, cafe and bar that's become a buzzing hub for performing arts in Auckland

Espresso Workshop

A spacious, friendly space for enthusiasts to drink and learn about unique, locally roasted and ethically sourced coffee

Orphans Kitchen

A friendly, casual eatery with simple, unfussy dishes, a great wine list and craft beer on tap

Warwick Henderson Gallery

An intimate, purpose built gallery where you will find a quality selection of contemporary and historical New Zealand art.

Te Tuhi Centre for the Arts

An unnassuming gallery for all those seeking some serious cultural indulgence.

The Civic Wintergarden

A beautiful event space beneath the oldest theatre in its style in Australasia

Mekong Baby

A fun, hot little number puts its own spin on Southeast Asian favourites and encourages the spirit of sharing.

La Fourchette

A sleek, effortless café-bistro-restaurant serving up classic French dishes

Honey

A sweet-natured café with a neighbourhood feel and a bright, colourful outlook.

KK Malaysian

An unassuming but well-loved eatery jam-packed with people and flavour.

Mudbrick Winery Restaurant

A family-owned and run vineyard and restaurant with one of the most stunning views on the Island

James

An elegant dining establishment offering contemporary food in a stylish, intimate setting.

Mojo Vulcan Lane

A small, beautiful espresso bar at the bar with a stunning fit out and freshly made pastry and sandwiches

Gus Fisher Gallery

A contemporary gallery housed within a beautiful heritage building, not far from the University.

The Blue Breeze Inn

An Asia-Pacific style restaurant and a contemporary Chinese menu, with some of the friendliest staff in the town.

Scratch Bakers

A simple, industrial space filled with some of the most innovative and delicious baked goods in town

Honeytrap

A gorgeous, pint-sized cafe with filter coffee, incredible sandwiches and a sweet mezzanine

Pocket

A pocket of sunshine, filled with thoughtfully curated clothes and accessories for men and women

Ark Coffee

A spacious, light specialty coffee roastery and art gallery hidden at one end of an unlikely arcade

Jam Organic Cafe

A popular Takapuna cafe beside Hurstmere Green. Order the signature eggs. Just do!

The Food Truck Garage

A busy, spacious garage space serving delicious, healthy versions of burgers, chips and hot dogs. Yes, really.

Kazuya

A hidden, surprising Japanese inspired restaurant where the food is an entertainment certain to make you smile

Humbug Cafe

Vintage-inspired, eco-friendly, local and fairtrade, this spacious cafe is a favourite with new suburbanites

Milse

A tiny, cocoon-like wonderland filled with the most perfect, stunning desserts you can possibly imagine

Whoopie Nuffield Street

A cafe which matches the whoopie pie in joyous personality

Late Night Diner

A casual American eatery brimming with fun, that's open later than most.

Little King

A spacious cafe with a beautiful interior, a lengthy menu and a penchant for making delicious waffles

Eden Park

A hallowed sports ground that's witnessed many epic moments in our nation's sporting history

Best Ugly Bagels

A cafe and bagelry serving soft, delightfully chewy Montreal-style bagels with incredible toppings

Ruben

A gorgeous, green and light-filled cafe with Three Beans coffee and jaffles

Tuihana Cafe

A wonderfully warm, generous cafe with a great Kiwi menu and friendly staff

Piha Cafe

A friendly beach side cafe with famous pizzas and ice cream and a beautiful view

Bread and Butter Bakery

A spaicious, light bakery and cafe serving delicious german-style bread that you'll become addicted to

The Fridge

A bustling deli and cafe with a huge selection of fresh sandwiches and salads, and an extensive brunch menu

Citizen Park

A casual Californian-style restaurant and bar with an approachable and affordable menu

The Boiler Room

A hidden store filled with one-off designed furniture inspired by the owners' collection of industrial artifacts

Ortolana

A beautiful all day bistro serving incredible European-inspired seasonal dishes that you won't forget

Coffee General

A cool neighborhood coffee brew bar offering beans from five different roasters, making use of every brewing method imaginable.

Conch Backyard Cafe

An independent record store with a courtyard cafe hidden out the back

Foxtrot Parlour

A breezy cafe with a great all day menu, a cabinet filled with freshness, Kapiti ice cream and Supreme coffee

The Store

A food store filled with an incredible array of lunch options, a diner with a casual menu, and a wine bar at night

St Heliers Bay Cafe & Bistro

An effortless, casual all-day bistro where the perfection of each detail turns your visit into a delicious, dreamy experience

Little Bread & Butter

An organic german bakery with every style of bread and pastry you can imagine, and baguettes and quiches too.

Voyager Maritime Museum

An interactive waterfront museum concerned with the nation's seaside history, free for Aucklanders

Fukuko

A Japanese shochu bar with intriguing cocktails, delicious shared plates and a range of ice creams

Beatnik

A book store and office for the ladies behind Beatnik Publishing, they sell Nice Blocks here too!

Brothers Beer

Less of a bar, more of a den, with beers brewed on site in every flavour of the rainbow

Three Beans Roastery

A simple espresso bar and roastery serving Three Beans unique blends as well as single origin and cold drip brews

Toru

An airy, friendly cafe with a great menu, Three Beans coffee and plenty of seating room

The Tasting Shed

A beautiful eatery in the country where the food is as lovely as the scenery.

Richmond Larder

A simple, friendly neighbourhood cafe where attention is paid to all the details.

Covet

A breezy consignment store selling clothes, jewellery, art and bric-a-brac.

Zomer

A bright beachside cafe that's like stepping into a holiday.

Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

A fascinating place in which to learn about the night sky, the solar system. Much more entertaining than it sounds.

Mojo Viaduct Harbour

A giant cafe catering to corporates that still manages to be warm, friendly and innovative

White's & Co.

A hole-in-the-wall with frozen yoghurt treats, eighthirty coffee and the best, healthy breakfast on the run in the CBD

mea culpa

A narrow, beloved local bar with creative mixologists to pour your heart out to.

Raven & Cook

A lovely light-filled deli and cafe with a hearty, comforting menu and cute kid-friendly touches.

Dry & Tea

A pretty blow wave and tea bar selling T2 concoctions and sweet treats to munch on while you are beautified.

Moustache Milk & Cookie Bar

A tiny, friendly spot with giant, exciting cookies in big glass jars, Supreme coffee and milkshakes

The Refreshment Room

A cabin-like restaurant in the midst of a forest, serving tasty, seasonal dishes.

Eden Noodles

A tiny, busy and basic restaurant serving spicy Sichuan-style noodles and dumplings

Food Alley

A narrow, food-filled alley with a huge range of cuisines on offer for very low prices

St Patrick's Square

An inner city oasis complete with public art, a terraced waterfall and plenty of spots to sit in the sun

The Duchess

An old-school low key bakery in which it's easy to find lunch for less than five bucks

Ponsonby Road Bistro

An unassuming street-side bistro serving seasonal dishes of consistent quality

il buco

A friendly local for coffee, pizza and free-range rotisserie chooks made to order

Galbraith's Alehouse

Auckland's finest pub, in our opinion.

Cazador

A unique, innovative family-run restaurant specialising in game food and good chat

The Little Bird Unbakery

An organic raw food wonderland where the food is brightly coloured and more delicious than you can imagine

Xuxu

A stylish Vietnamese-style bar and eatery with distinct east-meets-west designs.

Hopscotch Beer Company

A warehouse selling boutique beer on tap by the litre or the keg.

The Commons

A stylish eating house offering different styles of dining from lunch until late.

Ramen Do

A word-of-mouth gem where you'll find giant, comforting bowls of fresh noodles in thick, hearty stock

Celine Rita Boutique

A workshop and showroom space for Celine's romantic, timeless designs.

split/fountain

A category-defying space where you can see art and design in real life and in books

AS Colour

A t-shirt, sweats and hoodie store that's got your basics covered.

Modicum

A hole-in-the-wall cafe that'll add just the right amount of happy to your day.

Cafe Liaison

A nostalgic little tearoom in the heart of modern Ponsonby.

Sidart

A surprising restaurant that will send you on an unexpectedly enjoyable dining adventure.

Kitchen at Hotel deBrett

A beautiful, lofty and quiet living room in the bustling heart of the city

Story Espresso Bar

A beautiful lightbox of an espresso bar brewing coffee that tells a story

Montage

A suburban cocktail bar in the lofty, marble-chipped lobby of an abandoned cinema

Libertine

A sophisticated bar and eatery with an impressive shared plates and a la carte menu.

Cool Food Cafe

Extra fresh, feel-good food and eighthirty coffee in a design-lovers wonderland

Olaf's Artisan Bakery Cafe

A spacious, light bakery and cafe where you'll find the love is in the detail

Hard to Find Books

A three-level booklover's paradise housing over 90,000 books on every topic imaginable

TSB Bank Wallace Arts Centre

A historic homestead housing an incredible collection of contemporary NZ art

Bluebells Cakery

An unexpected and sweet retro hideaway filled with the aroma of freshly baked cupcakes

Ima

A warm bistro offering traditional meditteranean and Israeli cuisine for lunch and dinner.

Barilla

A no fuss plastic plate restaurant serving incredible steamed dumplings you'll go back for again and again

Mojo Garage

A renovated industrial garage with an open kitchen and a great breakfast-brunch-lunch menu

Basque Kitchen & Bar

A restaurant that's perfected the art of tapas, and has the perfect wine to go with them.

Sri Pinang

A little Malaysian-flavoured diamond in the K Road rough.

Collected by Leeann Yare

A beautiful, bright space filled with stunning design objects and party accessories

Farro Fresh Grey Lynn

A gourmet food store and source of culinary inspiration that champions local, artisan produce

Vaniyé

A stunning french patisserie with sweet french pastry treats that look and taste beautiful.

Eight.Two

A consistent neighbourhood local with an ever-changing menu and a great wine list.

Fatimas

For food that's fast, fresh and comes with an optional side of potato koftas (as opposed to guilt).

Depot

An all-day bistro serving incredibly fresh and heartfelt food with laid back warmth and old-fashioned friendliness.

Cereal Killa

A split-level, spacious neighbourhood cafe serving amazing eighthirty coffee

Atomic Roastery Kingsland

A roastery, cafe and brew bar roasting up all kinds of delicious.

Elliott Stables

A gourmet food court that's perfect for large groups or a quick bit before a show.

Middle East Cafe

A simple yet amazing Auckland institution that's been serving delicious chawarma and felafel for decades.

York Street Mechanics

A hidden refuge with an open fire, a beautiful, casual menu and some of the most hospitable staff in town

The Engine Room

A popular local bistro with luminous spaces and dishes that have become neighbourhood favourites

Bird on a Wire

A place to find a healthy fast meal - free range rotisserie chooks, amazing salads, burgers and sandwiches

eighthirty

A boutique roastery dedicated to making coffee that's incredible and sustainable at the same time.

Maaike + Co

An edgy yet inviting store filled with Maiike's beautiful layered pieces and warming knits plus a careful selection of other NZ designers.

Anna Miles Gallery

A secret white-bricked space tucked away on the fourth floor of an incredible, narrow building on High Street

Whoopie

A pocket-sized wonderland filled with whoopie cakes in amazing flavours and Italian hot chocolate.

The Keep

A mysterious mix between store and gallery, fashion and art.

I Love Ugly

The flagship store for the popular I Love Ugly brand; specialists in simple, clean lines and sweet graphic prints.

twentythree

A friendly neighbourhood cafe reknowned for its consistent goodness

Cocoro

An unassuming spot where you'll find Japanese fine dining perfection

Imperial Lane

A cool, health-conscious laneway cafe by day and a romantic tapas bar by night. With mighty fine hot dogs.

Coyle Park

A beautiful grassy space perched at the end of Point Chev with a truly amazing playground and beach access

Mexico

A place filled with energy, tequila and soft-shelled tacos that will make you feel as if anything is possible.

Kokako Cafe & Roastery

A bright, friendly corner cafe with organic, locally sourced goodness and incredible coffee.

Everybody's Izakaya

A beautiful restaurant and bar with a genius Japanese Izakaya menu, perfect for Friday drinks

Mo's

A tiny corner bar serving the best traditional cocktails in town.

Monsterthreads

A cool shop with cool stuff for cool folk like you.

Passion for Paper

A little shop full of the romance and nostalgia of all things handwritten.

The Lucha Lounge

A hidden wee bar with a cool, relaxed interior and decor and food that's inspired by a Mexican wrestling style.

Sitka

A cosy log cabin of a store stocking sustainable clothing and footwear and supporting the local community.

Wise Cicada

An organic, natural, sustainable haven of goodness and a foodstore for trick and picky eaters.

Atico-Cocina

A delicious taste of the Caribbean right in the hidden heart of Auckland city.

Millers Coffee

A cafe and roastery producing some of the most amazing coffee you'll ever try in one of the coolest spaces you'll ever see.

Bellota

A cosy tapas bar serving authentic spanish dishes that'll impress your friends and your tastebuds.

Arcade

A light and hidden store for skating enthusisasts and wearers of sweet streetwear.

Auckland Museum

A stunning building in a stunning place filled with history, beauty and memories.

Merediths

A tasteful monochramatic haven offering one of the most memorable fine dining experiences in the city.

Soto

A celebrated and zen-like Japanese restaurant serving izakaya style cuisine that's great to share

Mexican Specialities

A hidden yet famous spot serving the most delicious Mexican food imaginable in a small and very very busy space.

Mimosa

A sleek and quiet cafe with quirky food and amazing light-fittings.

Takapuna Beach

A lovely long stretch of beach to run or stroll or play on.

Cornwall Park

An epic, hilly, tree-lined space with glorious trees, gambolling lambs and a rich history.

Taylor

A tranquil space where you'll find timeless pieces that you'll wear over and over again

Melanie Roger Gallery

A simple, unassuming and approachable space where you'll see a huge variety of works

Cosset

A cosy and unexpected cafe with wizards in its kitchen and a big heart on its sleeve.

Nadu

A light-filled sanctuary where you'll find coffee, fresh juice and upside-down hanging plants.

Little Shoal Bay

A gorgeous wee bay and reserve with views of the city, boardwalks and sports fields aplenty.

Coucou

A gorgeous vintage store filled with quirky internationally sourced pieces at incredible prices.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki

An epic and stunning gallery that showcases the best of New Zealand art and history.

Catroux

A stylish and unforgettable addition to the Westmere shops; you'll feel more beautiful after eating here.

Movenpick

A beautiful land of ice-creamery goodness with freshly made waffle cones.

Winehot

An dark and mysterious bar in an unassuming spot with over eighty wines available by the glass.

Thorne Bay

An idyllic seaside spot for picnicking, playing or simply soaking up the sun.

North Head

A beautiful reserve with an intriguing military history and a stunning outlook.

Miss Crabb

A unique voice in New Zealand fashion, come here to find a well-made, timeless piece you'll treasure.

Silo Park

A reclaimed public space with an epic playground, an industrial heritage and lovely views of the harbour.

1885

A great big bar with three distinctive spaces to party the night away in.

Bambina

A busy yet tranquil haven from the bustling street outside.

O'Connell Street Bistro

A small and thoughtful restaurant with an impeccable wine list to match the impeccable food.

Look Sharp

An endless subterranean cavern of delights, perfect for costumes and bargain-hunting.

Sass and Bide

A spacious and light store filled with the distinctive pieces by the iconic Australian design-duo.

The Vitrine

A hidden expansive space in Grey Lynn filled with stunning french antiques

Jetset Bohemian

A tiny treasure of a store filled with beautiful, unique and surprisingly affordable pieces.

Britomart Country Club

A modern urban space in which an English summer reigns all year round.

Racket

A hair-raising, hilarious bar where you'll run into old friends and make new ones while dancing like a maniac.

Canton

A chaotic Chinese restaurant with an awesome BYO policy and fresh, generous and tasty food.

Tyler St. Garage

A modern and classy bar in what used to be an inner city car park that's taking simplicity and effectiveness to new heights.

Hurstmere Road Brewbar

A spacious, warm and friendly haven for everyone to relax and unwind in.

Meola Kitchen

A place of loftiness, light and food so good each dish will have a halo in your memory.

The Bread & Butter Letter

A gorgeous, bright boutique selling local craft, prints, jewellery, clothing and vintage pieces, and organic tea as well!

Clooney

An elegant fine dining sanctuary where you'll experience spectacular food and beautiful wine.

C'est Fromage

A French escape for a fraction of the price - indulge yourself with some of the gourmet deli delights you'll find here.

Ben

A place to go if you're serious about good coffee.

Jason Books

A haven of library-quality silence in a semi-subterranean spot.

Harvest Wholefoods

A food lover's paradise - particularly for organic and fair trade hunters, and those with special diets.

Western Park

A vast yet hidden green space with plenty of shady spots and lovely views of the city skyline.

Kohimarama Beach

A calm and dreamy beachside spot, Tamaki Drive's quieter alternative.

The Booklover

A spacious and light independent bookstore with something for everyone.

The Little Cake Kitchen

A sweet little place serving delicious homemade baked goods with Supreme coffee.

Sake Bar 601

A cosy Japanese restaurant serving perfect sushi and sashimi with an extensive sake list.

MooChowChow

A restaurant with a personality of its own offering a fresh twist on Thai food, and amazing cocktails.

Mondial

A busy tapas bar that will transport you to sunny Spain the minute you set foot inside.

Little b

A hidden wee coffee bar serving a consistently amazing brew and delicious treats made fresh on-site.

Clear Water Peak

A thin sliver of a cafe serving up surprising, generous food in an unassuming and friendly way.

La Cigale Cafe & Market

A cafe and french market that's filled with foodie options to eat there or take home for later.

The Gypsy Tea Room

A dimly lit living room with distressed wallpaper, fairy lights and an extensive wine list.

Gingerbirds

A secret space of light and baked goodness on Dominion Road.

Garnet Station

A friendly cafe with incredible sticky sweet brioche. Stop there and try it. You must.

Benson Road Deli

A fresh and delicious spot hidden away in leafy Remuera.

Takapuna Beach Cafe

A pretty spot with pretty chairs, pretty cakes beneath pretty glass domes, and a very pretty view.

Ripe Delicatessen

A bustling deli and cafe with some of the best-looking ready-to-eat food in the entire city.

Cafe on Kohi

A buzzing cafe that's a favourite with locals; you'll fall for the view and the food.

Northern Steamship

A vast yet cosy bar that's sure to start your weekend off right.

St Heliers Bay & Vellenoweth Green

A seaside escape, you'll feel miles away from the city.

Mission Bay

A park that shows Auckland at it's best, the perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day.

Madills Farm

A park in which kids learn to ride bicycles and swing cricket bats.

Bloodworth Park

A large flat park with excellent paths for walking or running.

Mt Hobson

A volcano that will reward your exertion with beautiful views.

Albert Park

A historic and beautifully maintained park where university students go to think, read, laugh and play.

The Domain

An inner city green place to rest, play, explore, learn and relax.

Ebisu

A stark stylish Japanese restaurant in which you can gracefully over-indulge.

Fabric

A place to find a new beauty for your wardrobe, or just to browse the racks and sigh.

Black Box Boutique

A famous yet hidden store filled with inspirational pieces that are essential to your continued existence.

The Department Store

A collaborative concept store that's one of the most beautiful and inspiring places in the entire city.

Village Co-op

A store beneath a striped awning offering a tempting selection of fresh bread, coffee and ice cream.

Golden Dawn

A cosy and secretive but not so secret bar on an unassuming corner of Ponsonby Road.

Magnation

A place to get lost in the glossy wonders of the world.

l'Assiette

A bright and modern haven to French cuisine in the Britomart precinct. Go there now.

Glover Park

A perfect park for cricket, picnics, or a bit of quiet time, plus there's a stunning view too.

Dizengoff

A busy Ponsonby cafe that truly deserves its popularity.

Fred's

A leafy pocket-sized cafe with Supreme coffee, homemade soda syrups and excellent sandwiches.

Teed Street Larder

An unpretentious, airy cafe serving all your old favourites with a fresh twist.

La Boulange

A cafe and french grocer selling the best pain au chocolat in the Southern Hemisphere. Arguably.

Nuffield Street Trading Co.

A local that's so welcoming even non-locals feel at home.

The Elbow Room

A perfect spot from which to watch the sunset over Jervois Road on a sunny afternoon.

Domain & Ayr

A shrine to all that is fresh, organic and delicious in this city.

Gow Langsford

A gallery with a serious reputation - it's always worth popping in for a look around.

Objectspace

A community-run space showing works that blur the lines between craft, fine art, jewellery, furniture and fashion.

Starkwhite

A beautiful blank space on K Road, pop in and find some pretty thought-provoking works.

Bath Street Gallery

A perfect gallery to meander around one afternoon, you might find something seriously beautiful to take home with you.

Two Rooms

A top gallery to visit, both conceptually and experientially.

Ivan Anthony

A slightly intimidating gallery that's worth the effort.

Artspace

A non-profit artist-run space that will challenge you conceptually, visually and emotionally.

Coco's Cantina

An unashamedly casual and busy cantina serving delicious seasonal food that'll leave you wanting more.

Sue Crockford Gallery

An airy, billowy gallery with a stunning view and stunning art from some of the country's most well-known names.

Whitespace

A large and approachable space where you'll find a good mix of established artists and fresh talent.

Fingers Gallery

A space where your perception of what is precious will be challenged.

FhE

A gallery showing impressive contemporary works paired with richly historical pieces.

Tim Melville Gallery

An approachable gallery with a knack for picking artists poised on the brink of greatness.

Fox Jensen Gallery

An echoing space that's hard to find but worth the hunt.

Masterworks

A space offering objects that cross boundaries between the world of art and the world of reality and functionality.

Myers Park

A hidden, half-forgotten tropical oasis in the heart of the CBD.

Unity Books

A bookshop that'll expand your mind and steal your heart.

Tattys

A pair of fashion recycle stores for those of you love designer clothes but don't always have the budget for them.

Superette

A couple of stores in which you'll find cool things that you'll want really badly. Simple.

Simon James Design Showroom

A place to go for inspiration, and really nice things.

Millys Kitchen Store

A place to go if you're an aspiring master chef, after all, you can't expect results without the right equipment.

Made

A grungy glamorous store filled with amazing things to drape yourself in.

Juliette Hogan

A gorgeous boutique from a designer who combines simplicity, femininity and practicality to great effect.

Flotsam & Jetsam

An attic-like world filled with beautiful things you'll convince yourself you need.

Douglas + Bec

A lovely light-filled store that proves beautiful things can come in tiny packages.

Design 55

A jewel of a store specialising in extra special and rare objects to adorn your life with.

Dear Reader

A booklover's living room, except you can take one (or two) away with you when you leave.

Wine Cellar

A cosy hideaway in the depths of St Kevins Arcade where wine flows like water, and good conversation follows.

Tiffin

A family run restaurant serving what just might be the best curry in town...

The Grove

A welcoming fine dining restaurant serving beautiful, seasonal dishes that you'll savour for hours afterward

Tanuki's Cave

An underground Japanese gem that's perfect for a quick meal before a show or movie.

SPQR

A local favourite that's been around forever for one reason; it's consistently great.

Shaky Isles Coffee Co.

A cafe that's so bright and positive and delicious you'll leave feeling as if you could take over the world.

Satya South Indian

A BYO restaurant that dares you to step off the tourist path and experience the delights of Southern Indian cusine.

Richmond Road Cafe

A perpetually bustling cafe serving seasonal food in a relaxed space.

Queenies

A feast for your tastebuds and your eyes, this cafe is a hidden jewel in Freeman's Bay.

Prego

A friendly, reliable Auckland institution that never fails to hit the spot.

Petal Cupcakes

If there is a baking heaven it will look exactly like this.

Neighbourhood

A casual, comfortable spot that you can't go past without wanting to stop and have a beer in the sun.

Monterey

A neighbourhood cafe and bar that serves excellent bistro fare using local produce alongside local wines

Monsoon Poon

An eccentric, hilarious delicious restaurant serving modern asian cuisine with a sense of humour

Little and Friday

A wonderland of sweetness and light, the perfect spot to go when you're at a loose end and need some inspiration

Java Room

A casual restaurant serving contemporary Asian cuisine within sight of Auckland Museum.

Jafa

A beautiful space with living green walls, colour breakfast and lunch options and epic milkshakes

Good One

A hidden gem for Supreme Coffee and National Geographic lovers.

The French Cafe

A restaurant that has set the bar for fine dining in Auckland city.

Didas Wine Bar

A cosy bar with delicious tapas and a colossal wine list.

Grey Lynn Park

A park for the suburban family complete with a paddling pool, a flying fox, and a skateboard ramp

Victoria Park

A secret green heart in Auckland city; a place to sit and look and watch and wait.

Cox's Bay Reserve

A vast park with meandering boardwalks, mangrove swamps, secret pathways and stunning views.

Cafe Hanoi

An airy Vietnamese wonderland with some of the brightest, happiest food you'll ever eat.

Andiamo

Herne Bay institution that's perfect for weekend brunch, right through to a celebratory dinner.

Alleluya

A laid back and friendly spot with stunning views of downtown Auckland.

FEATURED STORIES

AAF R&R: Water & Light

Listening to the APO beside a metaphorical river that's drying up before our eyes

I don't go to see the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra very often, and judging by the rest of the audience at the Auckland Town Hall on Wednesday, that's a norm for my age. I think perhaps it's time to shift that norm though, because it was the most fascinating evening, so heavy with tradition...

Read

AAF R&R: Hīkoi

A moving play about one family's strength and love, set against history's lingering scars

Read

Latest Content

AAF R&R: Water & Light

Story

Listening to the APO beside a metaphorical river that's drying up before our eyes

AAF R&R: Hīkoi

Story

A moving play about one family's strength and love, set against history's lingering scars

As soon I opened up Hīkoi's programme I was treated to a history lesson. Despite high school trips to the Bay of Islands to look at old-fashioned tanneries and printing presses, this programme contained more relevant and important information than I was ever taught in history class - it retraced the steps towards Te Reo Māori being recognised as an official language of NZ. Since high school I can thank the internet and the odd lecturer for my increased understanding of NZ's past, but I can't help but wonder, why isn't this information common knowledge?

A Guide: Auckland Arts Festival

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The Auckland Arts Festival is underway, which means we're lucky enough to have almost three weeks

AAF: LIMBO

Event

LIMBO comes to town all a-sizzle after sensational sell-out seasons at London's Southbank and the Sydney Festival.

Taking sexy bravado to dizzying new heights, this circus-cabaret, directed by Scott Maidment, is wild, wicked and out of this world. In it there's gut-churning aerial acrobatics, hand-over-mouth contortion, mind-boggling illusions and fiery flames hot from Dante's inferno. A rambunctious live band led by Sxip Shirey dishes out devilish electronica beats on brass, harmonica and concertina - the perfect live soundtrack for some other-worldly circus antics.

AAF: I AM

Event

Powerful, immersive and visionary, I AM is the latest internationally acclaimed creation from MAU and the brilliant artistic mind of Samoan-New Zealand director, Lemi Ponifasio.

I AM questions our humanity, faith and redemption. Colin McCahon's expressive painting victory over death 2 (1970) dominates the work. Frighteningly beautiful projections loom large behind the performers. I AM is hypnotic and spectacularly lit by Helen Todd.

High Tea at Alberton

Event

Situated on Mt Albert road, Alberton is one of Auckland's finest historic buildings. The home of prominent colonial family - the Kerr Taylors - for over 100 years, it is an 1863, eighteen room, timber mansion with grand, Indian influenced verandahs and turrets.

Renowned in the 19th century for its balls, hunts, garden parties and music, the house is now managed by Heritage New Zealand and open to the public 5 days a week.

Interview: Summer Shakespeare

Story

Amber-Rose Henshall and Arlo Gibson, stars of A Midsummer Night's Dream

There's only one measly sleep until Auckland University is again filled with its usual inhabitants - lengthy lectures and caffeine-powered students - but over the last couple of weeks the grounds has been the scene of something decidedly more fun. The 52nd season of Summer Shakespeare has set up shop on campus and

Oh hi there

Story

Renee Liang, scientist and storyteller

There are two wonderful plays happening as part of the Lantern and Fringe festivals right now. The Two Farting Sisters is told with the help of puppets and silhouettes and is about a girl whose magic farts make headlines as they drift throughout the country, spreading happiness and help to those in need. There's live music played throughout it and you'll leave the theatre with confetti in your hair.

Fringe R&R: Bucket's List

Story

A play full of delicate emotion and the quirkiest of humour.

Throughout my life, I have never really thought a lot about buckets. The plastic vessels didn’t exactly intrigue me, nor did I ever really need them. But then, it’s always the seemingly simple things that carry the most magic.

For doe-eyed Bucket, his whole life had revolved around the object of his very name, buckets. Upon losing his job at the bucket factory down the road, Bucket realised the single most beautiful part of his (wonderfully) simple life was the array of rainbow-hued plastic surrounding him.

Vulcan Lane Bagels

Location

Cafe

A cheerful hole-in-the wall cafe serving delicious bagels, treats from Scratch Bakers and Atomic coffee

Perched on Vulcan Lane Bagel's humble wee ledge waiting for our breakfast, we overheard the person at the counter point out that the small hole-in-the-wall cafe was "single-handedly brightening up the street". Admittedly, the speaker did seem to be friends with Ruben, the owner. But then again, even on your first visit, Ruben will treat you like an old friend. He's the best kind of friend you could ask for, really - one who also happens to have an endless supply of delicious bagels.