Article Search

Spoiler: Chardonnay is set to be the drop of the summer. 

It’s the end of the decade, and what have we learned? This month we take a look at the critters creeping onto menus and plates across the country, the rise of chessy Christmas movies and a new category of wellness that’s centred on partying but not at the expense of your wellbeing. 

Never heard of Ljubljana? It’s okay we’re not here to judge, just to make you look cool for your friends. Thanks to its rich history and culinary prowess, Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana (pronounced loob-ly-ana) is the perfect under the radar European city to lose yourself in.

Glamping has changed the camping game forever, and boy, are we thankful! With spots all over New Zealand, you can be sure to catch a stress-free snooze under the stars. What are you waiting for, get booking that getaway!

A superhero, super foody, super gluten-free eatery has just opened in Freeman’s Bay.

Elevate your night out.

New Plymouth’s cafe scene has exploded in the last few years so we’ve sorted the best from the rest, so there’s no need to waste your time on sub-par eggs benny or a burnt cup of coffee.

Fact: the noughties served up some of the best damn music of all time. Don’t fight us on it. 

​Ahh Christmas, easily my favourite time of the year. Why, you ask? Apart from the obvious—extended time off work, Christmas ham and sunny days spent at the beach—it’s also the time of year where no one judges your boozy escapades.

It's the most wonderful time of the year and Auckland is embracing the festivities with a long list of Christmas-y events throughout December. From annual favourites such as the Franklin Road Christmas Lights and Coca-Cola Christmas In The Park, to an intergalactic Christmas comedy and even a Christmas stargazing sesh, there's something even the grinchiest peeps can get excited about!

The Hungarian capital has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe—a statement we don’t make lightly. On the River Danube and backdropped by the Buda Hills, it’s at once grand and full of history, yet forward-thinking and edgy with some of the coolest creative haunts on the continent. Whether you’re exploring Buda (on the west bank of the Danube) or Pest (on the east), you’ll discover cosmopolitan and cultural attractions at every turn. Read on for everything you need to know—the sights, the spas, the restaurants, hotels and bars—when planning your inaugural trip to Budapest.

While we hate to play favourites, we’re going to go ahead and say straight up that Hiriketiya is our favourite spot to hang out on the south coast of Sri Lanka. We won’t try and tell you it’s off the beaten track—those days are over—but the kind of travellers you find in Hiriketiya are the good ones; obnoxious tourists just don’t seem to be attracted to this place. Plus, the influx of people has meant that seriously good cafes, restaurants, bars and accommodation options have popped up; so you get to feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere but still pour back a silky smooth flat white every morning. 

Get ready, Aucklanders, our favourite night market is back and it's better than ever.

After becoming local celebrities and winning the latest season of The Block NZ, what else is left for Lisa Ridout-Gordon and Chris Gordon? Fulfilling a long term dream and opening up The Ribz Shak, of course. 

We get it, finding the perfect hairdresser can be a lifelong journey. Trusting someone to work their magic on your hair is a decision that requires dedicated research and often referral. It’s a journey we take quite seriously here at Urban List so whether your hair’s in need of some serious TLC or you’re just wanting a trim, we've found the best hairdressers in Queenstown. You're welcome.

Going on an overseas holiday is one of life’s most exciting adventures, however, it doesn’t come without its stresses. So, we’ve teamed up with Cathay Pacific to suss out the best tips and tricks to minimising stress and maximising a good time

We know how much you love Middle Eastern food and the Lebanese have got some of the best. Thanks to Ottoman influences back in the day, French influence more recently and it’s proximity to Europe, The Middle East and Africa, they’ve been able to get their hands on the best spices and recipes for centuries and they’ve worked some magic. From veg-friendly dishes like hummus and falafel to meaty shawarma, there’s no foodie who wouldn’t have a field day in Beirut, or anywhere in Lebanon for that matter. 

Whether you fancy a bit of yoga, desire the comfort of some baked goods or are seeking to be a little healthier—look no further than The Welder, the largest Health and Wellbeing complex in the country.

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably been in a situation where you had some intentions around your money but failed to translate them into the results you wanted. It could be spending on an epic summer holiday, buying some new tech gear, or hitting some savings targets to start your new year on the financial front foot. I know I’ve definitely been there…

Let’s cut to the chase. There’s a big pool of sex podcasts sitting out there (most likely full of lots of banana inflatables) in the world and wading through the underwhelming to get the amazing ones can be kind of, well… hard.

It’s time to grab your robe, your owl and your wand and head to Auckland because the city is set to get a Wizarding Academy Express in 2020.

As of writing, Lightbox seems to be the home of thrillers, and thrilled you will be with its gripping selection of new shows, quality box-sets and new-release movie rentals. Like all good diets, your TV regimen should be one of balance, so when your heart rate goes back to normal, check out the best of their feel-good options which we’ve also conveniently included below.

There’s nothing better than a good waterfall with the thundering flow of water, dramatic rock faces and bright blue foamy water. Whether you want to admire one from afar, swim below one or climb down one, there’s sure to be a waterfall for you not too far away. While it’s a hard list to narrow down, we’ve found 10 of the best waterfalls in the world, from the world-famous to the lesser-known gems.

Their latest single ‘Run Wild’ is set to be the bop of this summer.

Folk are flocking to New Zealand’s first dedicated mac (of mac 'n' cheese fame) eatery in Petone, and for good reason.

​When LA Times reporter Christopher Goffard released a little-known podcast by the name of Dirty John last year, true crime buffs lost their collective minds. The podcast became a smash hit and spawned a Netflix show of the same name, plus a bunch of international speaking events… because who wouldn’t want to hear the dulcet tones of Goffard in person?

This rooftop oasis is the place of foodie dreams. 

Long time fans of Sumner’s Utopia Ice have had their prayers answered. The delicious artisanal ice cream shop has opened a gorgeous store in the central city on High Street.

Finally, Auckland is getting a David Jones and we can’t WAIT!

Wanderlusters, meet Taupō, an adventure seeker’s ultimate playground.

Get ready to fill that Mindhunter-shaped hole in your life – this one’s too good to miss.

Fancy getting inked? Why not do it for a good cause at Ink Me at QT. Oh, and did we mention celebrity tattooist Lauren Winzer? She’ll be there.

When we heard Basque was closing, tears were shed. It was a staple in the rooftop bar scene and home to some of the best sangria in Wellington. It may be the end of an era, but luckily for us, they’ve renovated and reopened as Mockingbird; a vegetarian and vegan plant-based food eatery and bar that still serves up banging sangria, has an impressive craft beer and cider range, and will make your vegan heart (and stomach) very, very full. 

The shadowy mouse empire is moving, and it’s coming for your bank account.

With food waste and climate change rising exponentially in the last ten years, the team at Everybody Eats is most definitely on a mission. By taking raw items and ingredients that would otherwise be wasted, this pay-as-you-feel system works to feed the community (and not just those living below the poverty line). So come one, come all… to a welcoming and heartwarming space. And get ready to fill your belly to the brim, with food, glorious food. 

Meet the next generation game of Pokémon Go.

For all the wannabe plant parents out there, consider this your indoor plant bible.

​Want to know what one of the biggest travel trends for 2020 is? It’s all about escapism. That’s right, in the new year people want to zen out away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and we think we might have found the perfect, wanderlust-filled location for doing just that. 

​Praise the sweet streaming lords, our obsession with cult creeper You is about to be renewed with Netflix releasing all the deets on season two… and yes we finally have a premiere date.

Is there anything better than a cookie? Well, yes, yes there is. If you’re not familiar allow us to introduce the Cookie Pie, masterminded by the legends over at Moustache Milk and Cookie Bar.

A totally wild and remote region of islands, First Nations villages, towering peaks and glacier-lined valleys, The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the world’s last remaining coastal temperate rainforests and is home to some of the earth's most magical landscapes, oasis and wildlife – you’ll find cougars and wolves on the land, and sea lines and orcas in the water (hint: the best time to spot orcas in the wild is July – October).

There are few places left off the beaten path. Anywhere you want to jet set, it’s just a hop, skip and Insta search away. Enter Azerbaijan. Azer…wha? Yep, that’s right, it’s the country you’ve never heard of. Well, that is unless you are a diehard Eurovision fan or follow the Formula 1.

For those lucky enough to have travelled to Spain, you’ll be well acquainted with the gastronomic delight that is tapas. Small bites traditionally served with drinks in the early evening before having a larger meal, tapas are ideal for sharing. Up until this point, we haven’t had a go-to for this culinary delight in Christchurch, but thankfully Castro’s Tapas has entered the scene.

Get those sleighbells ringing, a festive high tea is coming to Wellington.

When Canada pops up in conversation at Urban List, it’s often Vancouver or Toronto in the spotlight. And while the attention for both is well deserved, there’s so much more to this insanely beautiful country. Case in point: Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park and home to rocky mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, picturesque mountain villages and wildlife.

Something good is brewing down at Wynyard Quarter, and we think you're going to like it. Good George, the award-winning Hamilton brewery with a knack for crafting amazing beers and ciders, has opened the doors to its eleventh and arguably most epic outpost yet in an enviable position on the edge of North Wharf.

Apparently Cantabrians are the biggest Caramilk fans in New Zealand and Cadbury has taken notice. They’ve crowned Christchurch the Caramilk Capital of New Zealand and partnered with the local legends at C1 Espresso. 

Finally, just what the central city has been waiting for.

Settle in for the long haul, and if you can’t find something you’d be happy to lose sleep over, then go and play outside.

Turkish food is up there as one of our favourite cuisines of all time, so when one famous foodie city in Anatolia made the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy lists, we thought we’d better pay attention. Gaziantep has been said to be the food capital of the world and after a few food-fueled days spent eating our way around the city, we’d happily agree. 

If you’re a lover of all things pasta, then come and spaghett it at Avondale's new Italian eatery. 

We are stoked that snazzy new wine-bar Puffin has opened in Wellington’s Cuba Precinct.

When it comes to restaurants, bars and cafes, Ponsonby is a literal smorgasbord—in fact, this is one suburb where it's more about narrowing down your choices, rather than seeking them out (Ponsonby Road alone has a staggering amount of places to wine, dine, and get your coffee on).

If eco-anxiety is 2019’s biggest emotional vibe, cannabis culture is this year’s biggest buy-in.

Teaming up with Sir Ridley Scott (the genius behind Alien and Blade Runner) on his new project set to retell the murder of Guccio Gucci’s grandson Maurizio Gucci, Gaga is locked to play Maurizio Gucci’s ex-wife, Patrizia Reggiani.

Get yourself into a pickle during International Pickle Day 

If you’re feeling a little uninspired by the likes of a sweaty Christmas in Australia, then you’ll want to read this. We’ve compiled this list of the best Christmas markets from across the globe and if this doesn’t get rid of your inner Grinch, then nothing will. That’s right, we’re talking legit winter wonderlands filled with snow, lights, mulled wine and carols. 

It’s an old favourite with a new twist. 

The Christchurch brunch scene is constantly evolving, with new eateries opening up on the regular. Here are our all-time favourite spots for dishes that go well beyond the regular eggs benedict and smashed avocado on toast. 

Just a short ferry-ride out of Auckland, is a magnificent island called Waiheke. Technically, it’s part of Auckland, but… it also isn’t. 

Meal delivery services have become commonplace over the last few years, as delivery drivers in cars and on scooters replaced the late-night trip down to the local pizza or fish and chip shop.

Set to fill that GOT-shaped hole in your life.

Marrying the unmatched beauty of Canadian wilderness with the laid back culture of their Alaskan neighbours, British Columbia is a haven for travellers seeking an off-the-grid experience. From surfing along Canada’s famous surf highway to getting up close and personal with grizzly bears in their natural habitat, we've rounded up a list of absolute must-do experiences for all adventure seekers in British Columbia.

Many visitors to Greece touch down in the capital and head straight to an island. But there are plenty of reasons to linger in Athens, not in the least the atmospheric—and history packed—neighbourhoods that surround the Acropolis. Here’s our guide on where to eat, drink and shop when you’ve navigated the queues at the city’s hilltop citadel.  

As we race toward summer and the slew of Christmas party invites roll in, the bank balance can start to get a little low. 

We all know that eating like a local is key to a good holiday, but why limit yourself to a single restaurant at each meal when you can taste everything under the sun if you get your timing right. Whether you want something tried and true like pizza and chocolate or you’re after something a little wilder, there’s a food festival somewhere in the world for you. 

Whether you're after the comfort of a morning coffee, the excitement of an evening cocktail or something in between—you'll find it all at Wynyard Pavilion, the epic all-day eatery that's now open on North Wharf. Located inside the spacious heritage building that once housed Jack Tar, this stylish new restaurant boasts some of the best ocean views (and people-watching) in the city, along with a menu to boot.

You'll be right.

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to expand your LEGO set collection, this news is about to hit you like a ton of bricks: Alceon Group is building New Zealand's first LEGO® Certified Store in Newmarket's swanky new Westfield.

Goodbye sweet sleep.

This Croatian town is the perfect place for your next European getaway.

As we charge towards Christmas time, it can be a stark reminder of our financial situation and a time of longing for a pay rise (okay, so maybe we’re always longing for a pay rise…). If you’ve been killing your daily grind lately, we’ve enlisted a pro to help you smash your performance review and score that promotion you’ve been hoping for.  

Add This Hidden Beach Town To Your Bucket List STAT!

La Belle Waffle is the new kid on the block, a bright yellow hole in the wall and a little ray of sunshine in the middle of the city. You’ll find the Belgian style waffles being served up in Dukes Arcade by owner Nicholas, who is Belgian himself so he knows the real deal. Take the fact that they have sold out several times since opening as positive proof of his waff skills.

Hubble bubble toil and trouble baby, October 31 is the perfect day to be a little extra and transform yourself into something spooky and we’re here to help you prep for it. We've found the freakiest and most skilful make-up artists on the 'Gram to scare you into shape this Halloween.

There are many things a historical drama ticks more than other movies. For starters, it’s the number one genre that goes all out with costume detailing (we’re looking at The Crown for that one), takes make-up to the next level (no doubt Elizabeth upped the ante here) and plays with historical accuracy like it’s nothing.

Those of you who have been waiting for somewhere to drink really great wine on the north side of Wellington will be thrilled about the opening of Atlas.

Fire up, guys. The FOMO 2020 is around the corner, and freaking Lizzo is headlining. There’s no denying it, 2019 was Lizzo’s year. The flute-playing queen has been ripping up the charts (if you haven’t belted out Truth Hurts in the shower you’re lying!) and now you’ve got the chance to witness her magic live.

Not all business and career podcasts are made equal. Fact.

A quirky pizza bar is bringing a splash of European razzle-dazzle to Ponsonby. 

Ask any first time traveller to Europe and chances are Amsterdam will be part of their I-have-three-weeks-in-Europe-and-you-better-believe-I’ll-fit-in-20-cities list. But when it comes to cities that are worth staying a while, Amsterdam should be right up there and for good reason, ten in fact.

Scapegrace has been winning awards ever since it first burst onto the scene in 2014, with Scapegrace gold winning best London dry gin in the world at the London International wine and spirits awards in 2018. Recently Scapegrace hit the news after they launched the world’s first naturally black gin and it sold out in a day. All this points to an obsession with gin that’s showing no sign of slowing down.

​Prepare yourself for peak nostalgia, Barbie just became an Airbnb host so now you can live your best pink-filled life in her Malibu Dreamhouse. The ocean-front home has Barbie touches throughout and is tricked out with all of her favourite things. There’s an infinity pool with views of the California coast (complete with a waterslide of course), a private cinema, hobby studio featuring arts and crafts, sport court and meditation space—because even Barbie likes to zen out. 

We don’t know about you, but wine is one of our favourite things. And lucky for us, Hawke’s Bay is known as one of the best wine-making regions in the country, not to mention the world. There’s no shortage of delicious drops in the Bay. In fact, there are 72 (and counting) wineries and most of which are family-owned. So, whether you’re wanting to spend the day drinking with friends or enjoying a beautiful long lunch with family, we’ve narrowed it down for you. These are the 7 best wineries in Hawke’s Bay. We’ll drink to that.

Stumped on what to wear to your next job interview? We asked Deadly Ponies, Song for the Mute, Sans Beast and NIQUE to be your workwear stylists. 

Guess what, Christchurch? There's a brand new gelato and bubble tea spot in town and it's set to become your go-to for delicious desserts. 

If the idea of setting your alarm for a ungodly hour pre-6am spins induces a frenzied panic, and after work hours are dedicated to those ever-important social activities, we’re here to help.

Barefoot Investor is great and all but have you read these?

A boozy Halloween event with a tropical twist is on its way to our shores.

Leave it to the pros, these are the best hairdressers in Christchurch…

Cheese High Tea. High Cheeses. Whatever you want to call them—dedicated cheese-themed afternoon teas are a thing, and they’re swapping out the traditional scones, jam and cream for, well, all things cheese. And we’re digging them!

Newmarket, you’ve got it going onnn. There’s no shortage of things to see and do in this happening suburb.

Every noteworthy podcast trending hard right now.

We’ve woken up in a reel-y good mood this morning due to the fact that Cadbury are including everyone’s private obsession—chocolate covered fish—in limited-edition boxes of Favourites due to hit stores today.

If you’re yet to catch onto the non-dairy milk buzz, now’s the time. With plenty of options cropping up, we knuckle down on the best alternative dairy milk option and why you need it in your life, stat. Oat Milk. Say wha? Yep, you heard right. Oats are a humble little grain that have not been getting all the love they deserve, but now, it's their time to shine. 

Look at you go, you’ve landed your dream job! Ok, so maybe it’s not your dream job, but it is a new job nonetheless, and you want to make a good first impression, right? We get it, it’s a stressful time—everything seems daunting, and there are so many things to think about before you even step through the door. What to wear, where to go, what’s my name again… Well fear not, we’ve got your back on this one. Here are our top 10 tips for making sure your first day on the job is a good one, and not one you’d rather forget.

Are you on the hunt for your next under-the-radar destination? Look no further because beautiful Buenos Aires has you covered.

Round up the crew to celebrate life and loved ones at this year’s annual Day of the Dead Street Fiesta.

Fried chicken is the name of the game at Hamilton’s hottest new eatery, The Bearded Weasel.

My house, as they say, my castle. Dressing up your home is something we take very seriously and get super excited about. It is, after all, a reflection of who you are. The word ‘homeware’ itself has us squealing with joy. There’s little we enjoy more than navigating our way through stores, falling in love with half the display items, picking out dream pieces for the home none of us can afford.

Are you harnessing the power of your smartphone to get ahead in your career, or does your app collection consist of the defaults and Candy Crush? It’s time to put your device to good use with these apps that will make your work and life a whole lot easier.

Ever wanted to visit Peru to sink your teeth into their culinary delights, but can’t quite afford that plane ticket? Well, you’re in luck as new Peruvian-style restaurant, INCA, hits Westfield Newmarket's rooftop dining scene. (Let the mouthwatering commence)

​For Auckland peeps, a love of cafes seems to be in our DNA. Life is infinitely better with bacon, smashed avo and three rounds of coffee—and there are plenty of Auckland cafes serving up just that.

Whether you’re heading to QT for a ski getaway or to dance the night away with your pals, we’ve done the research and found the very best hotels on offer. Take your pick, these are the best hotels in Queenstown. 

Auckland’s having a long-term love affair with anything pork belly and this is one romance that we’re hoping never dies. From the crispy crackling, to the tender meat, and all its salty goodness, there’s nothing not to love about this juicy culinary delight.

After consuming many bowls of pho and more bánh mi's than considered healthy, we have rounded up a list of Auckland's best Vietnamese restaurants.

Kuala Lumpur (KL) has always moved at slightly breakneck speed. Chinese and Malay tin miners carved out the original settlement in the 1850s, and it only took the British a few decades to turn KL into the capital of Peninsular Malaysia. These days the city is like some crazy historical mash-up, where Mogul-style domes and colonial relics run head-first into hawker carts, street markets, steel skyscrapers and air-conditioned mega-malls like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC. This is where Malaysia comes for a good time. And there’s definitely no shortage of stuff to see. 

Ping pong, fast WiFi and a crew of achingly cool creatives—that's the freelance perks.

Come October 25, for 15 days only the Gin Jubilee will see 54 of Auckland’s hottest locations invite the public to discover new and exciting gin and tonic pairings, before choosing their favourite creation. So, brush up on you tasting notes knowledge, because this isn’t your average G&T situation—this is an opportunity to experience everything the constantly evolving gin world has to offer.

Plus everything you need to binge this week.

Edna Swart is the considerable brains behind the ed&i swimwear and body care range and recently starred on TVNZ's Boss Babes. We caught up with Swart to find out how she made the transition from part-time side hustle to full-time head of a thriving business.

We’re pretty into the latest style meets tech drop: a classic denim trucker jacket created by Levi’s and Google—it answers calls, finds your phone and plays your favourite songs. 

Only go 15-minutes to spare? We’ve got you.

For a city the size of what some might consider a small town, Amsterdam has more than its fair share of quality watering holes perfect for your next holiday tipple. Whether you’re after natural wines, beers, spirits or you just came for the view, we’ve rounded up the best bars guaranteed to have you feeling (and drinking) like a local. So, leave the red light district to the tourists, these are the best bars to hit up the next time you find yourself in Amsterdam, proost!

Whether you’re after some Auckland CBD convenience, something with a little character or just something cheap, there are heaps of spots for you to choose from in the City of Sails. 

Bon appétit mes amis—it’s time to eat your way through our picks for Auckland’s Best French Patisseries.

Break out those dirndls and lederhosen, a massive German restaurant is coming to Auckland and it’s bringing 500 free frankfurters with it.

Five and a half metres under the icy seas of Norway's North Atlantic ocean lies a restaurant that's making waves across the world.

From casual day dates to the more formal evening affairs, read on for the most romantic things to do in Dunedin. 

Cinnamon Bun Day Is A Thing And You Can Smash Free Buns This Friday

​Ever wanted to eat chocolate covered things two or three times a day and not feel guilty about it? Then hiking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is definitely the thing for you. Every tough moment of hiking is rewarded with the knowledge that no matter how often you sit around in your pyjamas binging Netflix, nobody can call you lazy ever again. Tell anyone you’re hiking in Nepal and they’ll assume it’s Everest Base Camp. However, the Annapurna Circuit offers much the same, if not more, with less crowds and more culture. A seven to 16-day trek, depending on where you start and finish, will wind its way around the tenth tallest mountain in the world. It takes you through small rural Nepalese villages, valleys filled with horses, and finally over the Thorong La Pass. 

Asking your boss for a raise is next-level tricky compared to reminding your housemate to transfer you twenty bucks for the internet. 

Settle in for a good week of viewing because there's a stellar line-up of fresh new release shows hitting New Zealand screens this week.

Intuitive eating has been around for yonks but, thanks to the rise of Instagram, we’re hearing a lot more about it now as Insta-dietitians and online fitness personalities shake things up. And having tried it ourselves, we’re big fans, here’s why.

Plus everything you need to binge this week.

Hot on the heels of their runaway success on Ponsonby Road, top notch ice cream aficionados Duck Island have been quietly preparing to open a new store in Newmarket.

At a loss to know what type of yoga would suit you best? We’ve got you covered from A-Z with the different types of yoga to suit your personality. 

Auckland has a beach for everything. Whether you prefer to sit on the sand and chow down on chippies, a snorkel in a bay to look for Nemo, or love a good, old-fashioned private bask in a secret escape, we’ve got it all. 

Welcome to generation burnout, population: you! If you’re finding yourself in a losing battle between work and play, whilst trying to land your dream job or score that promotion, then you’re going to want to keep reading…

Sly is finally ready to crack open its rather secretive doors.

Taste of Auckland is an annual highlight for the Super City because it means the warmer weather is upon us and we get to spend hours indulging in all of the very best our food and drink scene has to offer.

We're drooling over the new kids on the block. 

With The World Of Wearable Art (WOW) exhibition just around the corner, Auckland finalist Ian Bernhard is gearing up to send his daring designs out on the stage. We had a chat with Ian about what inspires him, his design journey, and all things WOW.

Christchurch, it’s time to meet your brand new local, Child Sister. 

It’s pretty hard to avoid news about the sorry state of planet Earth these days, but in case you’ve been in a media blackout, there’s a huge Global Climate Strike kicking off this Friday 27 September, and we’re asking you to join us out there on the streets as we send a message to the government that it’s time to take action after the UN Climate Action summit on 23 September.

It’s been a long wait, but those shiny, deep-fried delights Krispy Kreme is famous for will finally be touching down in the South with a pop-up shop not to be missed.

Auckland’s acai bowl obsession is something that doesn’t seem to fade. Since we’re always on the lookout for Auckland’s best, here are the top acai bowls you should add to your health kick—these superfood, super-smoothie concoctions are exactly what breakfast dreams are made of.​

Spring is finally upon us, and with it comes the mack-daddy of springtime experiences. 

Finding the right book to suit you can be a big task, so we’ve done the hard yards to bring you a list of some of the best books on mindfulness.

Over the years tattoos have evolved from a symbol of the criminal underworld to a universal art form used as a form of self-expression and tribute. Portraits of family and idols, homage to favourite cartoons and video games, religion and various sub-cultures… the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Plus everything you need to binge this week.

Whether you are looking for some pals to go running with, a sweat inducing HIIT workout or a good regular yoga practise, New Zealand's ‘coolest little capital’ has you covered.

Get ready to really back the boys, black laundry is coming.

No partner? No problem. Greece is an amazing place to explore on your own, appealing to sun worshippers, adventure seekers and history buffs in equal measure. Like any country, it pays to have your wits about you when you’re on your own—hey, when you’re with company as well. Here are the top eight reasons why you should consider enjoying this postcard-perfect slice of the Med, solo. 

If you loved the glitz and glam of The Great Gatsby, then get excited because for three months, Speakeasy Thursdays is taking you back to the 1920s.

Whether you pulled them, picked them or swiped them it’s time to test their mettle. Here are the best places in Auckland for that awkward first date.  

We all love a bottomless brunch, but a bottomless Saturday afternoon session is pretty hard to beat. 

Holidays are meant to be about unwinding and relaxing, but these days they can be more about getting that perfect shot for Instagram, ticking off a new place without really experiencing it and drinking your body weight in cocktails every single night. If you’ve ever said, or even thought, something along the lines of “I need a holiday to recover from my holiday” it’s time for you to discover the art of slow travel. 

Real Rad Food founder Hannah Mellsop talks scaling a business sustainably, the nostalgia of After Dinner Mints and overcoming anxiety.

While most tourists touch down in Athens and head straight to an island, there are plenty of reasons to linger in the Greek capital beyond the Acropolis. And many of said reasons have to do with wine and ouzo. Read on for the city’s top places to while away an evening, or a day, or both!

Roll up, roll up, calling all kidults.

Glow at Artweek is returning for another year to charm us all with a little bit of magic in our lives. If a wander under the moonlit and gleaming art installations sounds like a bit of you, keep on reading for all the deets to get you to your fluorescent paradise.

Ever wanted to hear Darude’s Sandstorm in G Minor with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra? Yeah, us neither, come to think of it. But it does sound like one awesome mash-up.

We want noodles and we want them now. Here’s where to find the best noodles in Auckland. 

Plus everything you need to binge this week.

Timberland are launching an exciting and serious #throwback collaboration today. Get ready for Spongebob X Timberland.

Leave it to the pros, these are the best hairdressers in Dunedin.

If there’s one thing we can’t get enough of right now, it’s true crime podcasts, so we’re always a little giddy when we uncover one particularly chilling. And it doesn’t get much creepier than having the voice behind one of your favourite cartoons talk you through heinous true crimes in graphic details. 

Two national icons have come together in a real-life stroke of genius to deliver the Cadbury Dairy Milk Pineapple Lumps block.

If you think sake is only that lukewarm beverage that looks like water but does NOT taste like water and is served in small shot-like glasses, that accompanies any authentic Japanese meal, then it’s time to get over that idea and think again.

Here’s some of the hottest places to eat and drink like a local in Dunedin right now.

Crunch down on finger lickin’ sushi for one day only.

​If there’s one thing we can’t get enough of right now, it’s all things horoscope related. We’re more than happy to live our lives according to our zodiac—but maybe that’s just the Gemini in us. Either way when Spotify announced they were releasing Cosmic Playlists today we lost our collective minds.

​Lacing up your walking shoes is one of the best ways to explore Hamilton and the Mighty Waikato. The region features an abundance of breathtaking vistas with staggering mountains, lush bush, tranquil springs and—of course—the iconic Waikato River.

Sushi trains are cool and all but packing a conveyor belt with different varieties of cheese and you’re scoring genius status in our books. If cheese is your thing, you’ll want to go ahead and book yourself a flight to London stat because The Cheese Bar is making all of our dairy-filled dreams come true. 

Sometimes in life, the dilemma of what to cook for lunch and dinner can get all too much. 

Kia Ora Māori Language Week, we meet again. A time for New Zealand to get behind an epic cause and help keep te reo Māori thriving in Aotearoa.

It’s no surprise Ponsonby’s latest addition Clipper, is the talk of the town.

While we endure the anxious and long wait for season four of The Handmaid’s Tale to hit our screens (and find out if June ever does escape that hell hole), it turns out you can get your Gilead fix sooner than you think.  

Plus everything you need to binge this weekend.

A designer, surfer, mother and business-owner, Danielle Clayton is the pure definition of boss lady.

Get around $1 chicken wings and $6 espresso martinis. 

Clear your calendar, because Westfield’s Taste. Shop. Play is back for another weekend of epic pop-ups brimming with drool-worthy eats, makeup tutorials and creative exhibits.

One of our favourite Kiwi exports—filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi has got us all hyped after dropping the full trailer for his highly anticipated latest film Jojo Rabbit.  

September is off to a good start in the culinary world here in Auckland and it is only set to get better this week. 

Land of volcanoes and geothermal hot spots, Aotearoa's geographic history has truly blessed us with the best! With an abundance of natural hot pools across both the North and South Island, here at Urban List, we’ve accumulated the finest thermal retreats to lure even the coldest of souls. Hit up this list and consider your winter getaway sorted.

With sustainability as the theme at NZFW this year, both familiar favourites and brand new labels took to the runway with thoughtful and responsibly-made collections. 

Whether you’re #shreddingforsummer, looking for the hottest new workout trend, or are a weekend warrior needing a new challenge, you’re in luck, because Auckland is home to some of the best indoor and outdoor places to get fit and have fun at the same time.

Tucked away on Fanshawe street is Rebel Rebel, a small but mighty modern eatery worth a visit.

Here are some things to do in November, December and January that may help you feel a little less stressed, and a little more zen. 

Turn off Netflix this November, December and January as we’ve got a bunch of action-packed events for you to check out. From the best summer festivals to head to with your mates, to art exhibitions, comedy shows, wrestling and a musical, here’s what to do over the coming months. Carpe Diem etc.

So you're an adventurer at heart? Check out the events happening around the country to help you get out and living your best life. From paintballing and extreme tracks to cycling and working on your calisthenics skills, you're sure to find something to whet your appetite here. So what are you waiting for, find your ideal event and get out there.

Here at Urban List, eating and drinking are some of the things that we like the most. And we know that you take it very seriously, too. From outdoor festivals showcasing local produce, to dinners held in the dark and a master class on gin, when in comes to everything food and drink related over the coming months, we’ve got you covered. Just a heads up, you may want to wear comfy shorts to some of these events (in particular, the dumpling tour).

Here are our top picks for the best things to see and do in our fine capital during September.

As the days become warmer and the nights longer, there’s officially no excuse for you to stay at home.

Plus everything you need to binge this weekend.

Auckland’s latest waterfront gastro-pub has just opened its doors, and it’s not to be missed.

New Zealand has a strong history of raising major, earth-shattering fashion talent. In honour of New Zealand Fashion Week this week, here are six of the best under the radar designers you need to get to know.

Here’s your chance to experience a TEDx talk the first of its kind in the world, because TEDxAuckland is stepping it up a notch with their next event—plunging the entire audience, plus the speakers, into complete darkness. 

The Victorian art form of taxidermy is fashionable once more and this time with a fitting 21st century, female-led twist.

​Anyone who has been to Switzerland will confirm two things: it is breathtakingly beautiful and, at times, breathtakingly expensive. While the former makes up for the latter, one way to curb your expenditure is by sticking to one region for a few days.

From concept stores to luxury multi-brand retailers, here are the best boutiques in Wellington to find a unique addition to your wardrobe or a memento of a Wellingtonian getaway. Get ready to pop those tags. 

Put the pedal to the metal.

It's always a good day when we get to roll out all of the latest and greatest foodie news for you to soak in—we're talking all the new products, new menus and new openings around the city that are deliciously exciting.

100% on Rotten Tomatoes and complicated family dynamics? Sign us up.

​In an age of online shopping, shifting through a beautiful boutique is more special than ever. Lucky for you, Hamilton is home to a delectable selection of fashion boutiques stocking your favourite New Zealand and international designers.

​Sometimes it’s nice to give up the gas guzzler for a big city holiday, but if you’re the kind who likes to explore beyond the beaten path, there’s no better way to do it than with your own set of wheels. From one day spins to month-long hauls, it’s time to fire up the playlist because these are the best road trips in the world.

Starring on the first ever New Zealand version of international smash hit fashion designer show Project Runway, Benjamin Alexander’s serious dedication to the world of fashion was evident right from the start. We caught up with Benjamin Alexander ahead of his much-anticipated show at NZFW this year. 

NZ Fashion Week is back in town fellow fashion lovers—and we’ve got the inside scoop on what this iconic event is bringing to the sartorial scene this year. 

If you think you’ll get snow board (soz) of drizzly city life this winter, there’s only one thing you should be doing—hitting the slopes. 

Plus everything you need to binge this weekend.

Say cheers to craft brews and crispy fried chicken.

Auckland’s restaurant scene is booming big time, but there’s still plenty of room in our stomachs (and hearts) for some good ol’ fashioned, honest pub grub.

Who revolutionised the charts for EDM DJs, genre-bending music and women?

Neo and Trinity are back!

Finding quality second hand clothes that won’t break the bank involves a bit of effort, so we’re here to help you discover the very best thrift and op shops Christchurch has to offer.

​We are very fortunate in Australia to experience a generous portion of Vietnamese culture. Just head to Cabramatta in Sydney’s west, the south Brisbane suburb of Inala, or drive a mere half an hour south-east of Melbourne to Springvale, and salty wafts of pho will have you salivating long before you step inside the bustling restaurants. 

Here it is foodies, your latest scoop on all of the newest and very best eats, menus and openings around town.

Just when you thought yoga classes couldn’t get any more zen.

Ben Lecomte is swimming from Hawaii to L.A. to raise awareness of the ocean plastic pollution problem. 

The North Face Frontier is a highlight within the Winter Games New Zealand calender and one worth marking in and checking out. 

We caught up with Natalie Procter ahead of her show at NZFW '19 to talk setting up your own business, teleportation and her life-changing trip to India.

Melbourne is a city like no other, the perfect balance of fast-paced bustle and artsy hidden gems with an out-of-this-world food scene and beautiful history all make for the perfect excuse for a quick trip across the ditch.

Known for their unbelievable nightlife, robust culture and creative industries, there’s no doubting that Berlin is a city to be reckoned with. So if you’re planning a visit to Germany’s capital, make sure to come well rested because here’s everything you should see, eat and do while you’re in Berlin. 

Plus everything you need to binge this weekend.

This desert metropolis pairs tradition with a futuristic vision, and following an oil boom in 1966, Dubai quickly developed to rival popular tourist destinations around the world. On their quest to be the biggest and most extravagant, Dubai built more skyscrapers than any city except for New York and Hong Kong, boasts the second-largest mall, the world’s tallest building and the only palm tree-shaped island (with two more in the works). 

Raise a glass (or two) in a Silo for one night only.

Clear out your makeup bag Christchurch, MECCA is opening a new store and you won’t want to miss this one.

From covetable rooftop terraces to decadent hidden cocktail dens, we’ve hand-picked Auckland’s best cocktail bars, for all your tippling and cheers-ing needs.

Although they’re heavenly on the eyes and worryingly moreish to smell, the beloved bouquet of flowers has become a tad monotonous…

Alright food lovers, it is that time of the week again where we bring you everything you need to know about the latest foodie products, openings and menus hitting the Kiwi scene.

In an offer you simply can’t refuse, PUMA has upped the ante on style inspiration with a collab that takes on a cinematic classic.

Experiencing the local cuisine is usually the number one priority for us when on holiday, and there’s no better place to do it than at a local market. Whether you’re after ready-made deliciousness to dig into on the spot or you want to check out the local produce from the area, here are the best food markets around the world.

Get excited New Zealand because Urban List NZ have the world exclusive first look at Cardi B rocking Reebok’s latest Meet You There collection. You're welcome.

Get ready to pop some tags and swipe that credit card, here are the best vintage stores in Wellington for all your thrifting needs and desires. 

If you’re planning on heading to Europe in October, we highly recommend you make a pitstop in London, more specifically the Harry Potter Warner Bros studio tour. For just three special nights, brave witches, wizards and muggles are invited for an exclusive, after-hours evening of magic.

​Most people plan their South American adventure around the big ticket items. Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands, a trek through Torres del Paine National Park. But considering the growing problem of overtourism, it’s worth skipping the obvious stuff, ditching the crowds at the Sun Gate, and spending your hard-earned tourism dollars somewhere else. Let’s be honest, the Inca Trail will get along just fine without you.  

Get those credit cards at the ready, Superette have just opened a surplus store on the shore.

Whether you’re looking for that one-off piece or the trendiest, must-have item of the season, we’ve scoured the racks to bring you all the must-visit boutiques in Christchurch.

​The sheer swagger and personality of Rio de Janeiro, the so-called Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City), means travellers often forget about the rest of Brazil. All 8.5 million square kilometres of it. A lot of tour itineraries skip the north coast entirely, whisking tourists from Rio to Iguazu Falls, then quickly down to Buenos Aires. But that’s a shame, because there’s a lot more to Brazil than Ipanema and the Sambadrome. 

For those of you who are on the summer shred, we have made a list on where to eat in Auckland when you’re on a keto diet.

New Zealand’s newest online store, TheMarket, boasts 1,500 brands and we’re so ready. 

​Africa tends to drag most of the big ‘safari crowd’, which is fair enough. Not many continents can rival Tanzania’s wildebeest migration (in fact, outside Africa, wildebeest are generally pretty thin on the ground). But South America has a diverse wildlife tourism industry too. And it’s not just kicking with sea turtles off the Galapagos Islands either (although you can’t go past it). There are dozens of mind-blowing wildlife experiences all over the continent, from birdwatching in Colombia’s Santa Marta to tracking puma over the mountains of Torres del Paine.

We caught up With Holly Norman ahead of Fashion Week to talk art, sustainability and the best part of being your own boss.

Doughnuts are having a moment—and that’s totally fine by us. Whether you like them dusted with sugar, oozing with chocolate custard or stuffed with cream, there’s something for everyone in this doughnut lovin’ city of ours. We’ve rounded up the best places to get the best doughnuts in Auckland. Dough-not delay, try one today.

Heads up good people, Allbirds are opening their first retail store in New Zealand next week.

And here's where you can get your hot hands on these must-have hair tools.  

There is nothing like a boozy mug of piping hot red vino brewed with cinnamon, cloves, star anise and orange zest to warm your insides. 

Thrift store, op-shop, charity store… whatever you know it by, Hamilton is home to a plethora of second-hand stores. There’s nothing more satisfying than scouring through racks of pre-loved clothing to discover, like, the coolest vintage jacket, ever—just ask Macklemore.

Reckon you’re the biggest Potter fan out there? Well now it's time to test your knowledge.