Urban List Recommends

You know that episode of Friends where Ross loses it over someone at work stealing his sandwich? “MY SANDWICH?!” Well, we're not so different to old mate Ross here, because that'd 100% be us, should anyone try to mess with our own sando of choice: anything from new kid on the block, Fitzroy Deli.

Venture down one of the smallest, most secret lanes in Auckland CBD and you’ll happen upon a bar and cellar you won’t want to leave. Sitting pretty among a florist and botanical gift shop, a Thai vegan eatery, a Japanese restaurant, and a barista, Isle On Snickel completes a micro-climate that’s a welcome relief from the frenetic energy of the city. 

One of Auckland’s top boutique jewellers, Diamonds on Richmond presents a beautiful collection of designs from the classic to the unique. The helpful team of jewellers can also work with you to create the perfect for that special someone (or yourself!).

Rising from the proverbial ashes of the old Conch digs, Nami Record Bar might just be your next favourite hangout. It’s certainly one of ours. 

If you're hunting for the perfect rejuvenating gift for yourself or a loved one this Christmas look no further than Tronque x Tonic Room's gorgeous Summer Glow-up Body Treatment.

If you're a plant enthusiast, no doubt you will have come across online plant phenomenon Johnny Jungle on your plant acquisition journey. Well, now you can stalk your next plant baby in person as the slick online store has just put down physical roots in Ponsonby Central. 

The Arts House Trust holds one of the most extensive collections of contemporary art in New Zealand. Located in the stunning historic Pah Homestead, in Hillsborough's Monte Cecilia Park, it is host to a regular rotation of art exhibitions from Aotearoa artists, with works selected from the 9000 plus collection and host to nationally touring exhibitions.

Coveted Italian brand Golden Goose continues its worldwide expansion and has now finally landed in New Zealand, opening its first store in Auckland on the ground floor of Westfield Newmarket. 

Tucked away behind the main Remuera strip, along a charming cobblestone-style alley, you’ll find The Little Bookshop. A welcome addition to the wonderfully redeveloped 1050 Remuera Precinct, The Little Bookshop has been thoughtfully curated by bibliophiles with a passion for the written word. Whether you’re looking for a new page-turner, summer blockbuster or that classic book that’s been on your list for years, the knowledgeable staff will be able to recommend the perfect tome for you.

If you're a little plant-obsessed like us, and enjoy filling up your home (and your 'Gram) with gorgeous greenery, then Babylon Store has got you covered. 

Created by the legends behind men’s streetwear label ZANEROBE, Subtype features a very covetable collection of sneakers, all hand-selected based on their design credentials, exclusivity, innovation and creativity.

New Zealand is one beautiful country, that ain’t news to nobody. Sloping hills, soaring mountains, stunning lakes, waterfalls and endless greenery combined with the infamous harsh NZ light sure make for a sight or two! Capturing all this beauty in a soft yet dramatic way is German-born, NZ-settled, world-renowned photographer Stephen Romer. Through the lens of a camera Romer captures the subtleties that make our land special…The crispness of mountain air and the brooding nature of moody ocean waters. Looking to feast your eyes? The Romer Gallery, sitting across the road from the Auckland Art Gallery, showcases Stephen’s work, with large prints imposing against the sleek and simple background of plain gallery walls.

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Former winners of The Block NZ, Alex and Corban have made names for themselves in the world of homewares. Their homeware store stocks quirky brands from all around the world, each with unique designs. Take a slice of your favourite cultures back home. Alex and Corban's style can influence yours to give you great interior inspiration and items without the hefty price tag. The store items are mostly minimalistic in style with natural tones, beauty, character and class. Skincare and beauty, curated book selections, beautiful and eclectic gifts, kitchenware, lifestyle items and more. 

Auckland’s street-style game has been taken up a notch with this sneaker store. Hype DC have gone beyond and scoped out the best pieces from the classic brands that we all know and love like Nike, adidas, Vans and Converse. Other brands that can be found in store are Dr. Martens Made in England, Puma, Arkk and RM Williams. 

Calling all Auckland foodies. Heaven IS a place on earth and it involves copious amounts of cheese, decadent chocolate and gourmet goodies (and even more cheese, obvs).

If you’re after a cosmopolitan art nouveau style interior, Madder and Rouge is THE place you want to go. With wanderlust owners, their pieces are sourced from all over the world. Every item is not only stunning, but quality made. With French/Indian vibes, Madder and Rouge are perfect for all things artsy and bold with pieces that will give character to every room of the house.

If you're after elegance, class, and minimalism, Simon James is your go to. Specialising in woods, creams and metals, the pieces here are tasteful and classy for the home or office. They stock multiple brands and designers, all with impecable taste, to give you the best of quality, comfortant and beauty. Funiture, lightings, rugs—everything here is absolute design and comfort. As well as the Newmarket store there is also a Herne Bay Concept Store and Furnuture and Lighting Showroom on Upper Queen Street to check out.

If you're looking for effortless chic, look no further than Tessuti. Jam-packed with beautifully curated pieces, this Herne Bay store does minimalism like no other. For those who love a good shop, their store has a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy as you browse for the perfect piece to walk away with. Stocking everything from socks, perfume and jewellery, to linens, kitchenware and furniture, it's a must-visit for those looking to up their interiors game! 

Everyday Needs gives you life's essientials with thoughtful and quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Blankets, cushions, candles, pitchers and cups, books, kettles, dinnerware, lamps—their products will have your house looking sleek, natural and eclectic. They also have garden needs, beautiful house plant pots and other homewares to name a few. Stunningly simple, these items will give your house the minimalist approach with a ton of character. 

Walk through the doors of Allium Interiors and you'll find interior decorating heaven. Located in Newmarket, they overflow with contemporary, beautiful and stylish products with the feel of indulgence. Allium Interiors covers every room of the house—furniture and gifts, cushions, throws, rugs, bath needs, bed needs, furniture needs!  Allium exclusively stock the latest fabrics and furnishings by Designers Guild UK and the latest European, American and Australasian fabrics and wall coverings. But wait, there's more! Walk throught the doors and Allium can offer a one-on-one consultancy interior design service, regardless of your budget. Go in for a relaxed but pro offering. Style and comfort are coming your way!

We don't know where we'd be if Loaded wasn't here to help us with our street style. This store only has the latest and greatest pieces of streetwear from tracksuits, hats, hoodies to sneakers, these guys really do have it all. Stocking brands such as Puma, Nike, Adidas, Timberland and Champion, just to name a few, Loaded is always there to freshen up our wardrobes. 

Located in Ponsonby, Bob and Friends are the go-to for the best of the best in contemporary British interior design. The homely set up of the show room provides a preview of all the cosy possibilities within your own home. Shop through top designer furniture, accessories and homeware and create the home you’ve always dreamed of! 

Muse is an established luxury fashion destination thriving in Auckland’s fashion central—Newmarket. Muse stocks offerings from the world’s top fashion designers, offering exclusive collections and accessories as well as everyday basics. With a revolving roster of designers, there is always something new to see instore, resulting in an exciting mix of established designers and fresh talent. 

Established in 1997, Huffer has been serving New Zealanders with simple yet chic streetwear for over 20 years and they’re still counting. This brand has become iconic in the New Zealand fashion industry delivering not only style but also practicality which explains why their outerwear pieces are what they’re most renowned for.

Shopping has never been easier in the state-of-the-art Barkers in Ponsonby. Decked out with touch screens and their full collection on display, the process is simple: grab a coffee at Archie, have a browse through the store, and get a fade at the Groom Room. Keep an eye on your letterbox the next working day and rock your fresh new threads—you’ll go from zero to hero!

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

For those of you with a love for lush decor, get ready for this. Auckland has just welcomed its very first indoor plant store, and it’s more glam than we ever imagined.

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

The best things in life are comfy, which is exactly why you’re going to love every single thing at the oh-so trendy St Clements in Eden Terrace. From slick couches and contemporary dining tables to cool stools and Insta-worthy beds, this super progressive furniture store prides themselves on high quality and stylish homewares. Everything is functional, refined, and–above all–comfy AF.

The Attic is full of pre-loved, high quality, fashion-forward goodies. Their aim is to decrease the amount of textile waste in New Zealand. We all have that one beautiful dress which has been worn just once but can't seem to find an occasion to wear again. You can either drop by the Browns Bay store, or request a pickup. With all items sold, you will receive 50% of the selling price. Not only do they take out the hassle of selling your old clothes, but it's also for a good cause. 

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Seabreeze has taken the Auckland cafe scene by storm, sitting on a perfect little corner on Westmere near the ocean. The slick blue teal colours and fun beachwood furniture will have you and your friends hooked. And then there's the food! Inspired from classic dishes in the '90s, Seabreeze has you covered from delicious platter spreads, salmon bagels and crazy-good corn fritters. Do we need to say more?

Doughnuts and coffee—a standard combination, Olly takes things up a notch as an art gallery, too.  The Mt Eden venue serves up all the doughnut flavours under the sun, including matcha green tea, strawberry and cookies and cream, not to mention the old school fave of sugar and cinnamon. Wash it all down with an Allpress brew as you soak in the art.

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

J'aime Les Macarons, french for 'I love Macarons', bring you just that—love and passion for the perfect macaron. Made from fresh cream, eggs and butter, as well as seasonal fruit and Belgium chocolate to add a creative flair. Our favourite flavours are Sticky Date Pudding, Pistachio ans Salted Caramel Espresso. J'adore! 

For all your make up needs, look no further than Smashbox in Ponsonby. At this welcoming beauty store, you'll find all sorts of quality products to add to your make up bag or, book in with the talented ladies and they'll make you look fabulous in no time. Whether you've got a special occasion in the works or need to get glammed up for your wedding day, Smashbox Ponsonby has got your face covered—literally. 

Setting down roots in Mt Eden in 1955, Chapter Book & Tea Shop is a bookshop unlike any other. With walls upon walls of books and literally hundreds of tea flavours, you're sure to find something you'll love at this comfy bookshop-cum-cafe. Cosy vibes and a snug setting make this the perfect place to settle in for some peace and quiet and venture off into a wonderland of zen at Chapter Book & Tea Shop—one of the best cafes in Mt Eden.

Celebrating the strength and individuality of women, Lonely designs clothing, lingerie and swimwear that is embraces and empowers every lonely girl. Just off Ponsonby Road, their beautifully designed Auckland flagship boutique stocks all your Lonely favourites. A marble wall strategically placed in front of the store window keeps the store private from passing pedestrians, and this privacy continues inside with sizable fitting rooms providing plenty of space for customers to try on whatever takes their fancy.

If you a) love cupcakes and b) live on the Shore, you’ll be pleased to hear that Petal Cupcakes has found a home in Takapuna. Having built up a rep for making delish cupcakes out of their Newmarket store, Petal Cupcake’s expansion will make it even easier to get your cupcake fix. With flavours such as salted caramel, lemon tart and balsamic strawberry, and delivery within three hours of ordering, Petal Cupcakes Takapuna is a great addition to the shore. 

With her products available in more than 1000 stores worldwide, there seems to be no stopping Karen Walker. Luckily for us, one of our most successful fashion exports has her own spot on one of our favourite shopping strips in town and oh my, she's a wee beauty.

If your beauty bag is looking a little empty, it’s time to pay the team at Mecca Cosmetica in Ponsonby a visit. Here you’ll find more than 40 of the world’s best beauty brands such as Nars, Stila, bareMinerals and Chantecaille (swoon!). Aside from make-up, they’ve also got skin and hair care as well as fragrances. If you need some expert advice, their resident make-up artists and skincare specialists will point you in the right direction. Warning: there’s a high chance you’re gonna want to buy ALL the things!

In the world of interior and homeware, some stores have well and truly got it going on. Crave Home in Birkenhead is one of these stores. You’ll find gorgeous bits and bobs from prints, cushions and textiles to ceramics, planters and lighting—basically everything you could need and want for your home. Crave Home also stock toys, décor and adorable rompers, booties and sweaters for bubbas. 

Located in the heart of Ponsonby Central, you’ll stumble upon Ceres Fresh Market. The market store stocks fresh local produce and has an on-site juice and smoothie bar. Here you’ll find seasonal fruit and veggies of every colour of the rainbow. The best part? Everything is organic so you can rest easy knowing no chemical nasties are on them apples. There is also a grocery section stocking organic and environmentally conscious brands.

It’s true, Bluebells makes Auckland a better place. The Hillsborough café is the brand's first, and has since grown to include those in both Kingsland and Commercial Bay. Step inside this bright and light space and you’ll stumble upon the prettiest treats you ever did see. Bluebells is a sweet-tooth paradise, specialising in cupcakes, slices, doughnuts, macarons and—of course—cakes! Pop in for a treat and a cuppa or check out their website and get a cake delivered to your loved one.

Jordan Rondel of The Caker has made a name for herself for creating beautiful cafes in Auckland and now, she’s opened he cake salon, Salon de Cake on K Road. Perhaps an unlikely spot for a baby pink and white-hued cake store, but Salon de Cake is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood. The space functions as a spot for cake pick-ups, wedding consultations, events, venue hire and in its simplest form, a place to pop in for mini cakes and a cuppa tea. The Caker’s books and cake mixes are also available. 

Oh, how we love visiting Devonport Chocolates. The boutique chocolate store specialises in quality handmade chocolates and truffles that are not only delicious but also oh-so pretty—half the fun of visiting the store is simply gazing at all the intricately crafted treats. The chocolates and truffles come in a vast selection of flavours. Think strawberry rose wine, flat white, passionfruit honey and limoncello—you name it and chances are they have it! We’re particularly fond of their chocolate figurines in shapes such as a penguin, cat, purse and a high heel shoe. Grab a chocolatey treat for your loved one or simply spoil yourself—go on, you deserve it!

Located on Newmarket’s Teed Street, Petal Cupcakes is your one stop shop for a real ‘sweet’ gift… or a treat for yourself! Specialising in—you guessed it—cupcakes, Petal Cupcakes have up to 20 flavours available on any given day. The have all your classics (vanilla, raspberry and double chocolate), as well as some more unique flavours (black Doris plum, tropical mango and golden syrup). Buy a single cupcake or opt for a four, six or 12 pack. Trust us when we say, one is simply not enough—they’re absolutely delish and very moreish.

Ellerslie is home to one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in Auckland, Mexican Specialties. They’ve become Auckland-famous for their soft tacos filled with beef, prawn and chicken as well as their crunchy tostada. While you can dine in and take away, Mexican Specialties also has a range of Mexican products for sale. Pick up a bag of soft tacos, sauces, organic vanilla, hot sauce and even a sombrero! 

Nestled in the brick Saatchi & Saatchi building on The Strand, Huckleberry is Parnell’s go-to spot for everything healthy and delicious. Whether you’re looking for organic ingredients, a nutrient-loaded juice or fresh produce, Huckleberry is stocked with everything you could possibly want and need. They also have organic coffee from Kokako for caffeine fiends. 

If your wardrobe is in need of some new trends, pop into Ponsonby Road’s Tanya Carlson and get yourself sorted with some gorgeous garments. The boutique fashion store stocks Kiwi designer Tanya’s stunning outfits and Nineteen//46 knitwear. Expect to find ’70s-inspired florals, statement pieces as well as classic coats and blazers. Whether you’re after an elegant going-out outfit or something more casual, you’ll find what you’re after here.

If you like both a) cooking and b) books, Cook the Books is the store for you! The Grey Lynn bookstore specialises in books about—you guessed it—cooking! Allow plenty of time to browse the treasure trove of books and  take a seat in one of the store’s many comfortable chairs as you flick through the stunning recipes. Can’t find what you’re looking for? The friendly folk are only too happy to order it in for you. They also offer free gift wrapping and gift vouchers, making it the perfect spot to pick up a gift for your foodie friend.

If your walls are looking a little drab, get down to Ponsonby’s Endemicworld to pick up some prints. The store specialises in all sorts of prints: screen prints, letterpress prints, stencilled prints, photographic prints… You get the picture (pun intended). We’re big fans of their extensive Kiwiana collection from New Zealand creatives. Check ’em out at their Ponsonby Road shop or buy online.

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Ex-pat American’s and those who just lurve all things American, Martha’s Backyard is here to meet all your needs. Situated in Ellerslie, you’ll find some fashion and homewares and allll the food you stock up on when you head to the States. There’s lollies, Swiss Hot Chocolate, original Cheerios, Twinkies, Cheetos and so much more that will satisfy that craving. Ya’ll come back now, ya hear?

If you’re a gal who’s all about classic yet pretty style, then chances are twenty-seven names dominates your wardrobe. Made with high-quality materials, the timeless pieces will stand the test of time and keep you on-trend for seasons to come. You can stock up on all things TSN at the pretty as a petal boutique store in Newmarket. There’s no such thing as clutter at the gorgeous light-filled store, making it a relaxing shopping experience. The hardest part will be narrowing down your purchases—you’ll want it all!

Calling all book lovers! If you haven’t already, make sure you pop on in to Novel Bookshop in Herne Bay. You can easily pass away the hours away as your browse the store’s selection of both fiction and non-fiction books. Novel Bookshop is known for it’s mighty fine collection of coffee-table books—there’s something for every home! 

The Women’s Bookshop has been promoting women’s writing since 1989. They originally set up shop in Mt Eden but relocated to Ponsonby in 1999 and have continued to sell plenty of great reads in a range of subjects. Whether you’re after history, fiction, poetry or cuisine, you’ll find a book to reel you in at The Women’s Bookshop. 

If you’re after a lil something-something to gift to your mother, brother or lover, look no further than Ponsonby Road gift shop Iko Iko. We could quite happily spend hours browsing through the store’s delightful nick nacks, homewares and stationery. Here you’ll find everything from New Zealand-shaped cookie cutters and tiki salad servers, to inflatable flamingos and Justin Bieber posters. We guarantee you’ll leave the store with not only a gift for your loved one, but also a little treat (or two) for yourself.

Sitting pretty on High Street is Unity Books. The bookstore is a delightful oasis from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. Allow yourself an hour (but more likely more), to browse the treasure trove of books. Whatever books you’re into, we guarantee you’ll leave the store with a brown paper bag filled of goodies to feast your eyes on. 

We first encountered Deadly Ponies on our hunt for the perfect handbag—functional yet fashionable and made of smooth, butter-like leather. And boy, Deadly Ponies didn’t disappoint. 

Working with contrast, texture and colours, Chaos & Harmony create design-led stylish footwear that let’s face it, is TDF. 

Céline Rita’s part store, part showroom and part workroom in Newton is off the beaten track (a.k.a. Pons Road) but well worth the trek over Newton Bridge. 

The newly opened Ingrid Starnes boutique on Ponsonby Road is the stomping ground of discerning shoppers who can’t get enough of her signature prints, structure styles and detailing. Designed and made in New Zealand, Ingrid’s classic collections will make you share her love of quality fabrics and celebrate her contemporary take on vintage accents. 

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Staple & Cloth might just be Ponsonby’s best kept secret. The label was created out of the need for the perfect white shirt, and because the founders couldn’t find one, they made one. Since then they’ve been producing seasonal collections and selling coveted labels such as Salasai, Sol Sana, Mooi, Nyne & Silk & Steel (just to name a few) through their self-named Ponsonby Road boutique.

Just enter Augustine's Ponsonby boutique and you’ll be dreaming of sundowners somewhere tropical. Established in 2008 by Kelly Coe, the brand consecutively creates colourful collections that will blow your resort-wear and going-out attire out of the water—all at affordable prices. After a trip to Augustine, getting ready will be the highlight of your day. 

I Love Ugly is the brainchild of a group of like-minded people who share a love for all things creative—beyond the realms of just fashion. Since starting out in a closet back in ’08, the I Love Ugly team have been consistently producing top-notch quality collections across menswear and accessories. Check out the Auckland flagship store in Mt Eden for the ultimate Ugly experience. Who knew Ugly could be so good?

Gorman on Nuffield Street is the Australian fashion label’s first foray into the New Zealand market and we’re welcoming them with arms WIDE open. Designed and created by Lisa Gorman, the label has become famous Down Under thanks to her distinctive handwriting, signature prints and daring colour palettes. Head to the Newmarket store and shop up a storm—it is definitely one of the best fashion stores in Auckland. 

Juliette Hogan’s Britomart boutique is in prime location for a lunchtime jaunt. Saturated in an abundance of natural light, you’ll feel relaxed as you browse through the racks of modern-designed pieces that accommodate for everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Juliette sums up her collections perfectly with the simple phrase—contemporary simplicity—and we couldn’t agree more.

A staple on the Auckland fashion scene, Andrea Moore has been kitting Kiwis out with structured, colourful and fashion-forward garments since opening in Wellington more than 15 years ago. If you’re looking for locally-produced threads and black isn’t your everyday go-to then the Milford boutique should be your new local. 

The Poi Room Ponsonby is a Māori-owned Retail Art Gallery currently supporting over 100 local artists. The gallery specialises in Aotearoa-made goods including prints, Māori arts, glass, paintings, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery, books and stationery, homewares, and beauty and is one of the best Pounamu stores in New Zealand. In addition to their online and Ponsonby stores, you can find their original gallery at 17 Osborne Street in Newmarket. 

Situated in Matakana (where the weekend markets take place) is The Village Bookshop, a boutique, independent bookstore with a wide selection of books, wrapping paper, cards and other bits and bobs. From New Zealand literature to eclectic and international reads, The Village Bookshop is the perfect place to pop into after hitting up the markets or grabbing a bite to at the Matakana Market Kitchen. Owner, Tracy and her staff will be more than happy to make a recommendation. 

The friendly folk at The Village Winery in Mt Eden Village know a thing or two about wine—and beer, for that matter. The independent, family-owned alcohol store only stocks the best of the best. In order to make it on their shelves, their hand-picked wine must be of exceptional quality, value and character. They also stock an impressive collection of single malt whiskey and specialty beer. Cheers, The Village Winery!

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Situated at the top of Jervois Road is a children’s paradise—the Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop. With a huge collection of quality books as well as a range of educational toys, puzzles, games, music and audio books, it is a great place to take the sprogs and inspire them into the world of reading. One of the best bookshops in Auckland, the Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop is a must-visit if you have kids or need to buy a gift for one. 

Opening in 1984, Hard To Find bookstore was first located in an Onehunga basement. Making it—yup, you guessed it—hard to find! The second hand bookstore was located on Onehunga Mall, making it MUCH easier to find and now it has moved to St Benedicts Street! Give yourself at least an hour (but probably more like half a day) to browse the treasure trove. Every single nook and cranny is stacked high with books and you're guaranteed to find some gems. 

Although the location is not so secret anymore, Amy’s Secret Kitchen on Brown Street in Ponsonby is still revered as a treasure. What started as a passionate hobby of sisters Amy and Charlotte, has blossomed into Amy’s Secret Kitchen, which officially launched in 2012. The girls are on a quest to create the most delicious and gorgeous confectionary in New Zealand.

It’s not everyday that you are able to wine and dine amongst blossoming flowers and greenery. The Botanist in City Works Depot is the collision of a café, wine bar and florist, so your options are endless. With a team made up of restaurateurs, florists and sommaliers, the experience you get at The Botanist is truly inventive and invigorating.

Flowers After Hours, located in trendy Parnell, has been bringing joy to Aucklanders for the past 25 years. The specialized team of florists behind Flowers After Hours consistently create unique bouquets and arrangements that are a beautiful way to complement any occasion, from corporate events and product launches to dinner parties and special gifts.

Take a store and name it after a jewel. Take a designer and create some beautiful clothes. What do you have? A shop-sized wardrobe with more magic than the one that leads to Narnia. Little girls dream of dressing up like princesses and young women dream of wearing dresses from Ruby. Located in Newmarket, Ruby is set amongst shopping sophistication. Ruby is the place to go when in need of a dress for that special occasion, a gift for that special someone, or even a glossy new diary for that glossy new you.

Pah Gallery is part of Pah Homestead, located in Hillsborough. The carefully selected exhibitions are astounding and complex. Pah Gallery’s unusual location, and unique exhibitions are inspiring to even the most un-artistic of us. Alongside Pah Gallery is its very own gift shop, showcasing talent from all over New Zealand, with a large proportion from Auckland. There's plenty of gifts and products on display—handcrafted, exquisite and always changing. 

Superette is super. Superette, Newmarket is one of our faves. The store itself is a beauty, decked out in delightful ornaments and prints—a pleasure to the eye. Glass cases show off some of our favourite New Zealand designer’s work, which is something we love about Superette. Supporting local designers in their dreams to leave an impression on the fashion world, has left an impression on us. We love supporting our fellow Kiwis, and we love that Superette supports them too.

Ponsonby has always been the neighbourhood of all things stylish and new. Superette does nothing but compliment this hip suburb with its alternative interior and fashionable attire. You can count on Superette to have the latest and greatest for both men and women, including but not limited to; shoes, clothing and jewellery. Superette never fails at having something that catches the eye, and what else can you expect when they sell some of the best designer brands in New Zealand.

Sunny Taka is slowly developing its shopping hub, and Superette sits top of the list. Walking into Superette is an outing of its own, beautifully designed items displayed so perfectly that you almost don’t want to buy them. But you do. Because you’re in Superette and everything is so carefully, artistically and lovingly produced. If you’re in the mood to spend a pretty penny, then you know where to go.

After a rather long stint in the shadows, the iconic Victoria Park Market has been returned to its former gorgeous self. It’s looking shiny and new, but with the exposed brick and community feel that made Aucklanders fall in love with the place all those years ago. Victoria Park Market’s re-development has seen a number of stores move in as well as some great bars and restaurants, old and new. 

Urban farmers market, gourmet kitchen, florist, and ultimate playground for anyone who loves local, artisan food, Scarecrow on Victoria Street West might just be the one of city’s coolest openings this year. Scarecrow stocks over 120 products from the best artisan producers in the area—we’re talking chocolate, wine, bread (three of life’s guilty pleasures) and heaps of other goodies that you’ll want to get your hands on. Scarecrow also has an excellent menu, or pick up a sammie and enjoy it next door at Albert Park. 

Presentz on Richmond Road in Grey Lynn likes to do things a bit different. Like it’s name, the gifts inside are equal parts quirky, fun and New-Zealand inspired. Presentz is one of those gift shops that you look forward to visiting because the offerings are an eclectic amalgam of things that you never knew existed but somehow always wanted.

Saigon Crafts on Jervois Road in Ponsonby is a conduit for Vietnamese culture here in Auckland City. Working directly with Vietnamese crafts people and artists, Saigon Crafts imports hand-made quality gifts that truly are one-of-a-kind.

Naomi and Ulala are the sisters behind coffee roastery ARK Coffee on Takapuna’s Lake Road. Founded on a love for the caffeinated bean, ARK offers brewing classes, tasting sessions, and bloody brilliant cup of coffee. A giant roaster sits in the middle of the store, so you know the beans are fresh as can be. ARK’s long black is an absolute treat, and the serene, welcoming atmosphere will have you coming back for more. 

Shut the Front Door is about the coolest name, for a homewares store, that we’ve ever heard. And tell you what, if the interior of our house was this awesome, we would want to shut the front door and stay at home forever. Shut the Front Door has one of the best assortments of homewares, furniture, nic nacs and just about anything you can think of, but cooler. In our minds, Shut the Front Door is one of the best home stores in Auckland.