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For tasty kai with bangin' views, make a beeline for the Auckland Viaduct. 

Rotorua is one of the most popular destinations in Aotearoa and for good reason⁠—there’s a helluva lot of awesome things to do there whether you’re into history, hot mud, or adventures to send your adrenaline levels sky high. And there are loads of great places to stay too. 

Walking is one of the best ways to make the most of the City of Sails. So grab some sturdy shoes, make use of the kauri dieback wash stations and get amongst the beautiful coastlines, stunning waterfalls, urban strolls and native bush.

​If your go-to food hit list is dwindling as you've eaten through your home city, Brisbane's pumping restaurant scene has got you covered.

Thanks to Visit Brisbane, we’ve found some unique wonderful adventures in this thriving city you can have with your lover so you can get planning, pronto.

We’ve rounded up a list of the best Airbnbs in Queenstown to make that dream holiday a reality…

Whoever came up with this cunning way of eating cake for breakfast (or any other meal, for that matter), we thank you for your service.

We called on you—our tasteful readers—to give us all the goss on what should be at the top of our list on a trip to Fiji.

If you’re looking to woo someone special, celebrate a milestone or perhaps even pop a special question, our handpicked list of the most romantic restaurants in Auckland has your next date sorted. Food, wine, romantic vibes, views—they’re all here.

If there’s one day that can trigger the battle of the high teas it’s Mother’s Day, and this year is no exception.

Easter is upon us and a long weekend of resting and feasting awaits. Take this holiday as a chance to go out to get your wine and dine on because that’s what we’ll be doing!

Sometimes you’ve just had your fill of hotels, motels and Holiday Inns, and you’re yearning for something with a little more… personality. When that mood strikes, it’s all about Airbnb. And if you’re bound for Taupo, you’ll be very pleased to know there are a bunch of great places on offer. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a slow sit-down and sip, or a takeaway coffee to accompany you on your daily errands, from Auckland CBD and Ponsonby/Herne Bay/Grey Lynn/Karangahape Road/Eden Terrace to Newmarket/Mount Eden/Kingsland/Morningside and The North Shore, Urban List has downed a dangerous dosage of caffeine to create the ultimate list of Auckland’s best coffee shops that you’re going to want to bookmark ASAP.

As Kiwis, a love of pies is practically in our DNA. These hearty pastries have been keeping us fuelled for generations and are the perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or even a cheeky brekkie.

Wellington’s breakfast game is strong, just like their coffee.

If you’re anything like us, you know that one of life’s greatest pleasures is trawling through a bookstore to discover your next read.

From boutique to five-star luxury we've scoured town for la crème de la crème, so without further ado, here are the best hotels in Auckland.

Get ready for the sticky fingers, doughy bellies and warm fuzzies, as you eat your way through our list of Auckland’s best cinnamon buns.

It's no secret we love a new opening and if you're reading this, chances are you do, too. As luck would have it, Wellington is packed with tantalizing eats with new eateries. 

There’s a reason why Wellington is Aotearoa’s coolest capital. Among the most (and best) flat whites per corner, beach-side brunch spots and breathtaking walks along the windy hills, Te-Whanganui-a-Tara truly has some of the best restaurants in Aotearoa.

Your guide to finding more soul-nourishing moments in 2025.

Turns out The Garden City isn’t just about botanicals—it’s also one helluva foodie scene.

April has arrived in the blink of an eye which means yet another round of school holidays are fast approaching. If you're scrambling for ways to keep the boredom at bay, we've got you. From an eggciting Easter hunt to a dazzling kids' ballet, and a cute as clay workshop, there's a whole lot of kid-approved things to get amongst this month. 

Easter is fast approaching and for the sweet tooths amongst us (me!), this is pleasing news indeed. After all, what other holiday is celebrated by stuffing your face with as much chocolate as humanly possible?

Seafood lovers listen up! A boujee seafood-inspired restaurant has opened at the new-look Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour Hotel and we can’t contain our excitement. 

Auckland's a pretty fun place to grow up. Not only do we have world-class beaches on our doorstep and all the usual family-friendly tropes like a zoo, arcades, and a museum, there's also a host of city exclusives like our very own marine reserve to swim around, a Wonka-esque sugar factory to explore and of course, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere (which, btw, kids over 10 can even jump off!).

Queenstown is famous for its jaw-dropping landscapes, and while the Great Walks get all the hype, there are plenty of other incredible trails that deserve a spot on your to-do list.

From anniversaries and honeymoons, to family reunions and birthdays, there’s one special spot that caters for every important milestone—Singapore.

Steeped in culture and brimming with world-class hotels, Michelin-starred street eats, a vibing nightlife and sun-kissed islands, Singapore is worthy of so much more than just a few hours between flights.

Between the gleaming skyscrapers and perfectly manicured gardens lies a paradise for savvy travellers. Let's dive in, shall we? 

Forget the total routine overhaul, in 2025 we're making small changes that stack up to a better year. 

One of the side effects of becoming the Editor of Urban List is friends and strangers alike are always sliding into my DMs asking for recs (which I dig, by the way—she loves a flex). So I decided I should really be spilling my secrets here, for all of you, too. 

The warmer weather is here, and that means it’s the season for lavender to bloom. Here are the best farms across New Zealand where you can stroll amongst the fields, take a picture for the gram and pick your own lavender. Hot tip: pop a few flowers into your next glass of champagne.

Chocolate may get most of the attention at Easter, but it isn't the only treat we're coveting once the season for bunnies, eggs and unabashed gluttony rolls round. Yip, that's right fam—we're talking about hot cross buns, or HCBs.

Stockholm is sort of an archipelago city. Dozens of islands and little urban peninsulas divided by oceanic canals that freeze solid in mid-winter. Bridges are a big deal here.

One of the best things about Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the fact that writing a list of the best beaches within a region is absolutely possible.

The economy may be in dire straits but your bank account need not be—cheap eats are not a thing of the past. In fact, you can tuck into a lunch that’s quick and healthy for less than twenty bucks, even if you work in Auckland CBD.

We’ve rounded up our go-to picks for that bakery run—whether you’re a sucker for a kiwi classic, a modern Asian sweet, gluten-free sausage roll or a vegan croissant—we’ve got you.

Renowned for serving up the best in spirit-stacked sips, creative mastermind, and a-lister in the bartending scene Alastair Walker is set to hit Ōtautahi to host an epic night of all things shaken and stirred. 

Bank balance not quite as abundant as you were hoping? Assets looking a bit... non-existent? We feel you—it isn't easy getting your finances in check but in this economy it's especially vital. Here's where to start. 

Whether it’s Mother’s Day, a special occasion, or you just wanna spoil someone (but also yourself!), high tea is always the answer. Lucky for us, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has no shortage of spots serving up a swanky high tea with alllll the treats, including tea, cake, and if you're lucky, a cheeky glass of bubbles.

Though long viewed as a luxury destination—cue over indulgence and splashing of cash—Waiheke is literally awash in great options to have you out and about and enjoying the land in many different ways, all without breaking the bank.

Myland & Co is a day retreat that's definitely worth forking out for. 

Arts and culture capital of Aotearoa, Te Whanganui-a-Tara is packed with an epic lineup of things to do.

Feeling dusty? You poor, you-only-have-yourself-to-blame thing. Lucky for you we live in 2025, where ordering a post-hangover feed to your door is as easy as pie (mmm, pie). With a few clicks of a button you can literally have curry, burgers, shawarma—or a sammie and freshly squeezed juice, if that's more your vibe—delivered to you in your delicate state, within mere minutes.

The North Shore is as much for eating out and drinking, as it is for hitting the beach. If you don't believe us, check out the more than 55 spots we've carefully curated by suburb below, ranging from old-fashioned pubs, bakeries and burger joints to chic wine bars, cafes, and bistros.

If you’re a bit of a tramping fiend, chances are you’ve lowkey got your eye on crossing off all of the New Zealand Great Walks. If you haven’t done the Routeburn yet, it should be high on your list. 

Beer o'clock? We've got you. 

Working from home? Keep things fresh with our essential home office edit. 

Would you climb inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber? We did, and this is what happened.

​Auckland is a mecca for hair salons and when it comes to choosing “the one”, selecting a hairdresser to entrust with your precious locks is a big freakin’ deal.

After a long morning walk and a day spent lounging lakeside, a bar hop chasing the sun seems the next appropriate step.

There’s a lot to love about music festivals in the Aotearoa summer. Racing between stages, dancing like no one’s watching, and snapping up some epic memories. 

We caught up with Hāmiora Bailey, director of Auckland Pride 2025 to pick their brains on the festival and all their favourite spots in the Tāmaki Makaurau. 

Grab your tickets to this free family-friendly event filled with fireworks, local dance and drum performances, lion dancing and beautiful lanterns lighting up the grounds. With over 60 food stalls and lines out the door each year—we’ve rounded up our top food picks while enjoying the sights and lights.

Hello lovers, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so if you haven’t made plans yet, you'd better hustle.

Eat a rainbow this Auckland Pride with eight must-try chromatic dishes from local hospo legends. 

These are the best festivals hitting Aotearoa this summer. 

Renowned for his ability to serve the best Kiwi cuisine, ex-MasterChef New Zealand judge Simon Gault has built his reputation through a love of pushing boundaries and celebrating local ingredients.

Here are all the events not to miss at this year's Auckland Pride Festival. 

If there was a recipe for a banging summer in Tāmaki Makaurau, it’d absolutely involve the sea, some good food, a bit of music and a boogie.

Let us hear you say love. Whether it’s your first or your one hundredth date, a little thought goes a long way and a dinner and a movie just ain't it. 

There’s really nothing better than smashing back a good burger. It’s salty, it’s satisfying, and it’s what hungry dreams are made of. However, we all know there are many components that go into making a decent burger. Once you weigh up the bun, the patty, the sauce, and the toppings, it can become a very spirited debate. Which begs the question, who IS slinging the best burgers in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland?

Sport is basically a religion here in Aotearoa, and meeting your mates to share a drink and yell sports-themed profanities is a rite of passage. And when you can’t make it to a game, there’s no better way to experience nail-biting sport than with a drink in your hand and plenty of people to create the vibe. 

Whether you love getting amongst the arts or prefer to eat your way around town, Ōtautahi’s got something for you. Here are the best events happening in Christchurch in 2025. 

We’ve taken the hard yards out of scoping out the very best massage places in Auckland, so that you can sit back and slip right into a state of bliss. Toodles, tension. 

Sunflower season is short but sweet and while there might not be an abundance of sunflower farms in Aotearoa, there are five magical spots you’ll definitely want to visit.

20 New Zealand-made gins that will turn your typical G&T on its head.

Pantone has been selecting its Colour of the Year for more than a decade now and in 2025, that honour goes to Mocha Mousse (PANTONE 17-1230). According to the official Pantone website, this is a “warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.”

There’s no shortage of events and entertainment available in Tāmaki Makaurau from comedy shows and international superstars to theatre, or just a good ol' gig, we’re spoiled for choice. With that in mind, there’s one thing every music lover, theatre enthusiast, art fan, or comedy connoisseur needs: a satisfying pre-show bite.

There's a misconception that pilates is an easy-going style of workout that doesn't require the same strength and effort as traditional gym workouts. Well, we're here to smash that myth once and for all. Pilates isn't just a challenging and effective workout, it's a safe one too. 

The North Shore isn't just about sun, sand, and surf, it's also about beautiful food and drink. As a matter of fact, we reckon some of the city's best restaurants reside on this side of the bridge. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of our most-loved spots on the North Shore for a feed.

We’ve scoured around for the Airbnbs with the prettiest pools in all the land (Auck-land that is) so you can feel like an absolute water baby.

Brimming with vineyards and distilleries, terrific food, forest tracks, beaches and swimming spots, the only thing better than a day trip to Waiheke Island is an overnighter. Here's where to stay. 

Between scaling Mt Taranaki and hitting the mountain bike tracks around Lake Mangamahoe, surfing up a storm or soaking up the art, you’ll likely work up quite the appetite in New Plymouth. And, luckily, there’s a bunch of local eateries on hand to refuel at. 

Rotorua is a foodie haven, from boujee fine dining to delectable cheap eats spotlighting local and international cuisines.  

Whatever the occasion or vibe, Kirikiriroa Hamilton’s buzzing restaurant scene has it all. Whether you’re after a sophisticated date destination, a culinary journey around the world, or simply on the hunt for some hearty comfort food, Urban List has you covered with a list of the best restaurants in Hamilton.

It’s handy to have a healthy appetite when you try out Invercargill’s restaurants, as down south the portions are generous and don’t skimp on flavour.

A bijou city it may be, but Ōtepoti Dunedin knows how to punch above its weight when it comes to culinary genius per capita.

It's official—Onehunga is one of Auckland's most hip albeit underrated suburbs. Studded with historic buildings and delightful villas, this charming neighbourhood has really amped things up in recent years on the eating-out front, with a host of top-notch bars, restaurants and cafés coming to the fore.

Takapuna is one of our favourite suburbs in all of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Not only is it home to one of the most popular beaches on the North Shore, it also boasts a long list of amazing places to eat and drink.

Blenheim certainly does a good elixir (of the alcoholic variety) but it holds its own on the foodie front too. Forks at the ready, here are the best Blenheim restaurants.

For a night out feeling fancy, a sweet pick-me-up or a tasty bite to get you through your day, Parnell won’t disappoint. Arguably the most stroll-worthy suburb in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, it's packed with restaurants, cafes and bars that know a thing or two about really good kai.

Waiheke Island. A magical getaway, a wine-lover’s paradise, the perfect wedding destination... and a next-level foodie scene. Here are the best and tastiest restaurants on Waiheke Island. 

From Peruvian tacos and schnitzels the size of your face, to perfect coffee and cocktails in bongs (for reals!), this suburb certainly has plenty to eat out on.  

I scream, you scream... well, you know how it goes. Whether it's fresh and fruity or rich and chocolatey, in a cone, on a stick or in a cup, we just can't get enough of the cold stuff. So without further ado, here's our pick of the coolest (yes, we did just do that) ice cream and gelato shops in Auckland.

A bunch of workshops have popped up all over Auckland with every kind of class imaginable.

Activewear is the holy grail of the wardrobe. 

Piping hot and packed full of flavour, ramen is as good for the soul as it is for the stomach. It's no wonder this drool-worthy dish, which features noodles swimming in a lush savoury broth, topped with goodies like braised or barbecued pork and soft-boiled eggs—is one of Japan's most popular dishes and an absolute fan favourite here in New Zealand.

We’ve rounded up our top picks of Māori-owned kai pakihi (food businesses) across the motu where you can show your support.

2024 is almost done and dusted. Only one question remains—where will you be when the new year dawns?

From jaw-dropping outback retreats to island escapes, get all swept up in each other’s irresistibleness at one of our top picks for best romantic holidays around Australia. 

From bubble skirts to 'that' tank, these are the season's pieces to curate a wardrobe for every occasion

‘Fire and ice’ has taken on a new definition this year with contrast therapy becoming the next biggest wellness buzzword as the fitness industry starts to lean into recovery in a massive way.

A rite of passage for many, we’ve got a tonne of descriptors for Gisbone’s Rhythm & Vines festival—namely, good vibes, good tunes and good company. This year we’re adding ‘healthy’ to that list (and we’re as surprised about it as you are). 

As a year ends and a new one dawns it's customary to reflect... So of course at Urban List we jump straight to the food.

Beer—it makes the world a better place and lucky for us hop lovers, Auckland’s craft beer scene is absolutely booming. 

Epic fitness endurance comp, HYROX, is coming to New Zealand in February.

Activewear brand LSKD has just made its Aotearoa debut, opening a brick-and-mortar store in Takapuna which is kind of a big deal (goodbye shipping fees!). We caught up with LSKD ambassador, Lilz, for the lowdown on all the best pieces to add to our wardrobe. 

There’s a very fine balance between spontaneity and organisation when it comes to making summer plans. For trail walks—like all of Aotearoa’s summertime activities—a few notable basics are a must.

Christmas is the season for twinkling lights, merry tunes and prettily wrapped presents under the tree. Oh, and more unapologetically festive treats than you could ever hope to work your way through before Santa comes calling. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of must-try Christmas treats (some naughty, some nice) for you to enjoy this holiday season.

Left your Christmas shopping a bit, shall we say, fashionably late? This gift edit doubles as a gift for future you—each piece is pretty fun in its own right but they’ll also have you sorted for back to school (or uni) when the new year dawns and it’s time to hit the books.

While it’s not hard to find a great beach, Urban List has done a little more exploring to discover these secret gems. 

This epic pop-up is here to help you donate your spare travel cash and win a stack of epic travel prizes. 

If you’re one of those folk who likes adventures but can’t be faffed travelling far and wide for them, Auckland is the best place to live. An outdoor playground lies—quite literally—just beyond our doorstep, waiting for us to explore it. 

We’ve scoped the waterfalls around the city to bring you a list of the best in Auckland. Take a picnic!

We’ve all been there. Dashing into the supermarket in sand-crusted jandals, scanning the wine racks for this evening’s sip, onion soup sachets and cans of reduced cream gripped to your chest. 

Fish and chips. They’re pretty much our national tucker. Here are our picks for the best fish and chips shops in Auckland.

We're proudly (and perhaps a little tipsily) presenting to you the most refreshing cocktails for kicking back with this summer. 

If you’re like us and love a juicy berry punnet or two, then read on to find the best pick-your-own strawberry fields in Tāmaki (and beyond). 

Whether you’re diving into the mad scramble that is Boxing Day sales, after a top-tier refuel mid-beach day, or soothing a deathly hangover on New Year’s Day, don’t waste your calories (and dollaz) on shoddy fare. It’s time to celebrate. Come 2025, it’s a new year and a new you, and that new you deserves to be fueled by the finest kai Auckland has to offer.

As the gateway to the South Island, Ōtautahi Christchurch attracts visitors of all types and it's not hard to see why. Alongside amazing food and drink, the Garden City is blessed with some of the country’s best hotels, and we've put together a list of our faves so you can have an A+ Christchurch getaway whether you're travelling in luxury or you're on a budget.

Having just completed her very first marathon in The Big Apple, Meg Marshall is the young kiwi proving that a casual Friday jog and a bit of initiative can take you a long way. 

There are about 99 reasons to head to Waiheke but no one can deny one of its (very main) alter egos is Wine-heke. Here's how to tackle a wine tasting like a pro. 

Set in the stunning Southern Alps, Rhythm and Alps has got to be one of the best festivals around. This year’s festival comes with an insane lineup including powerhouse Becky Hill, Andy C, and Shapeshifter, who will be celebrating their 25th anniversary. 

Whatever your tipple of choice—we’ve got you. Here are the best bars in Wellington.

Wineries are a field that Waiheke have got down pat and it’d be criminal to leave without visiting one. Here’s a list of the best Waiheke wineries. 

There’s no getting around the fact that The Good Life requires something to live that good life on (aka a planet) but climate anxiety really knocks the dopamine out of a cheeky add to cart. 

To make things easy for you, we’ve created this list of the best places to buy your Christmas tree this year—now you have no reason to procrastinate!

Christmas is indeed the most wonderful time of the year and our fave part of the festivities is decorating the tree. That said, we've searched out the very best Christmas decorations money can buy, and we think you'll be impressed. From pop stars and film characters to pretend treats and treats proper (or at least, baubles filled with them), there's a lot to get excited about.

Black Friday is on the horizon—Friday 29 November, to be exact—and while it’s a froth-worthy occasion for some, it prompts a wave of eye-rolling for others. The Conscious Countdown, however, is, allowing you to snag a bargain from a curation of local businesses that put the planet and people first. 

Craving a taste of Italy without the plane ticket? Look no further than Wellington's vibrant Italian food scene.

All I want for Christmas is to spend the day slaving over a hot oven and washing dishes, said nobody ever. Most of us would prefer a delicious meal cooked and cleaned up afterwards by someone else. Which brings us to one of the festive season's greatest blessings—restaurants that kindly open their doors on the 25th of December, especially for our wining and dining pleasure.

To help you tick off your Christmas shopping list and leave you with money in the bank, we’ve put together a Christmas gift guide with a bunch of options for a fiddy dollar note, or less. 

It’s all about choosing brands based on our own values—not just the dollar value of a product.

One thing’s for sure: porteños (those born and bred in Buenos Aires) know how to party, and they tend to be out and about most nights of the week. 

We've found the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in Wellington for 2024, so you can sit back, relax, and scrap the tradition of stressful cooking.

Whether you’re out for a veggie deal, are craving some homemade treats, or just want to support local grassroots creatives, Wellington’s market scene has got you.

As the saying goes, you can’t beat Wellington on a good day.

Wellington prides itself on its cafe culture and we’ll be the first to say it’s justified.

Ho, ho, holy snowball. December is nearly here and it's time to get our Christmas party on. Is it just us, or did this year really sneak up on us?

Here are the best events happening in Queenstown in 2025.

Just two and a half hours drive from Tāmaki Makaurau, Rotorua is an easy roadie and for the quintessentially Kiwi experience, you’ve got to go camping. 

If you haven’t camped in Taupō, can you really say you’ve fully experienced it? We'll go ahead and nope that. Here are the best spots for camping in and around Taupō. 

Escape on an island adventure to the majestic yet mysterious, Rakiura Stewart Island. 

Finding a restaurant to eat at in Auckland on Christmas Day isn't always easy (the phrase 'needle in a haystack' springs to mind). Well never fear, 'cos we've done the hard yards for you and found out who's open to play host this year so you can sit back, relax and make merry while someone else does all the work.

Nothing has us feeling more festive than a completely over-the-top display of Christmas lights—this is definitely a case of the more the merrier! Lucky for us Aucklanders, a decent dose of holiday twinkle is never far away.

No, it's not just you—eBikes are everywhere right now.

Summer has officially started which pretty much means three things: ice cream, cocktails and swimming.

Our fine capital is home to some fantastic hotels for all kinds of visitors looking for all kinds of getaways. Whether you’re looking for a staycation in your own city or need to find a place for a cheeky trip away, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington has somewhere for everyone.

We love a good market, especially one with the word 'Christmas' attached! So hop in the car, crank up the Mariah (your secret's safe with us) and head along to one of these incredible Christmas markets coming to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland this holiday season.

Welcome to 2024, where advent calendars are as big of a deal for adults as they are for children, and filled with so much more than cheap choccy. We're talking beauty products, booze, and even treats for in the bedroom (there's a reason Santa has a naughty list).

From authentic experiences to Japanese patisserie, we’ve scoped out the very best Japanese restaurants in Wellington, so in no particular order, here are the best Japanese joints in town.

Kiwi summers are incomplete without heading out to the wild exploring the beautiful nature the land has to offer. Read on to learn about the five spots in Hamilton to relax this summer. 

Ahhh Raglan, a bohemian jewel in Aotearoa’s crown. While there are plenty of cute accomodation options in and around Raglan, there’s nothing quite like camping so we’ve rounded up the cream of the crop (vegan cream, that is—let's be real).

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 60 km long tramping track that traces the coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, which straddles Tasman Bay and Golden Bay, northwest of Nelson. Here’s everything you need to know to start planning your trip to this gorgeous corner of the top of the south.

It’s getting chilly out there, and while we pile on the layers, we often forget our furry friends need the same care when it comes to keeping warm during winter.

Nothing triggers guilt like the puppy or kitten eyes you get when leaving your pet for work

To give you a taste of lush, effortless hair, this month Shark Beauty is showing off their best range of good hair day promising tools in an exclusive Newmarket pop-up. 

Smattered across four and a bit floors, Westfield Newmarket is Auckland’s only rooftop dining precinct, shopping, eating and playing to take on such luxurious form. Where else can you window shop a designer bag, mid-pedicure, while being an escalator away from a round of rooftop fresh oysters?

Legend has it that at summer’s end or ‘Samhain’—the inspiration behind Halloween traditions—the veil between the world of the living and the underworld is at its thinnest. The dead will walk.

We’ve said it before but we’ll say it again: rooftop bars are the shiz. What’s not to love about sitting sky-high, sipping on a beverage and taking in an epic view? Auckland’s best rooftop bars are dotted across the city and come in all shapes in sizes.

If there’s something New Zealanders know how to appreciate, it’s a well-cooked, tender steak. Coupled with roasted vegetables and a cheeky glass of fine red wine, you can’t go wrong with a simple steak dish.

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is home to some seriously spooky spots. 

Get amped up for the most wonderful time of the year. We’re talkin’ New Zealand’s festival season. Across the country, lads and lasses will be locking in tickets to some of the best festivals our country has to offer, all promising an epic mash-up of beats, vibes and all round good times.

Dive into Urban List's top picks for the best Italian restaurants in Auckland.

Sick of being a passive bystander in a movie theatre? Perhaps it’s time to become the lead in your own story.

There are some excellent pet-friendly campgrounds scattered around New Zealand that are happy to welcome both you and your furry ones.

So it not your doggo’s first rodeo when it comes to walkies. But there are walkies and then there are walkies, if you catch our drift.

When your doggo’s done the mahi, they ought to get the treats. But not just any treats, your canine’s deserving of only the best. 

We've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a dog in Auckland so you can be part of the solution.

Who loves the salt, sand and sea more than us humans? Our furry best friends of course. That's why we've got to get them out and about at the most dog-friendly beaches in Auckland.

It’s a well-known fact that we here at Urban List love our pooches and so we’ve rounded up some of Auckland’s best dog-friendly parks because—let’s face it—your dog’s already peed on all the trees at your local. So, treat your pup and take them to the best dog parks in Auckland.

The best things in life are furry, so we've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a cat in New Zealand so you can help a kitty in need.

Show your pup some love and reward them for being a good boy or girl at these dog-loving establishments.

Whether it’s a new puppy and kitten or you’re rescuing an older pet from your local adoption centre—the first year of pet ownership can be pretty intense. Read on for some top tips on pet parenthood from our very own team of animal lovers.

It’s not too late to rally the troops, or just yourself, to raise a bit of cashola for this totally worthy and far-too-close-to-home cause.

Explore the stunning Fiordland National Park on an epic three to four-day tramping adventure.

Few things in life come close to the excitement of receiving jewellery. The box, the silky lining, the glamour of it all—nothing compares. Here are a few of our favourite jewellers in Tāmaki Makaurau for you to chase that thrill. 

In this economy, barely anything can top the excitement of free parking. But SkyCity's served us twice over with the holy grail itself, plus an exciting new addition to October and November's epicurean calendar. Enter: Served, two massive months of feasting. 

Whether you're a margherita purist, a meat lover or into a serious deep-dish, we’ve found the best pizza in Auckland for you to devour. These joints offer fresh, quality ingredients that can make the experience feel almost healthy (almost). 

Grab a spot by the water, dig in to a tasty something and let the City of Sails treat you some next-level hospitality at Auckland’s best waterfront eateries.

The only thing worse than staying in on Sunday is being lumped with the responsibility of having to find a good restaurant that’s open on Sunday night. While usually a thankless task we've scoured all our favourite eateries to put together a list of where to eat in Auckland on a Sunday night. 

You don’t want to be chained to your kitchen island in a booming pre-drinks party. There’s chins to wag, sunrays to soak up, and gossip to catch up on over a round or three.

Venue Veterans is a brand new gig series that'll see iconic New Zealand musicians returning to the venue that ignited their career. We caught up with David Dallas ahead of the launch.

‘Monday-itis’ can be cured by two things: a good meal and a strong beverage.

Forget everything you thought you knew about vegan and vegetarian food. Far from its can-o’-chickpea origins, vegan fare is now unapologetically delicious.

It’s time to double-whammy that precious downtime the same way you “write minutes” for meetings that really could’ve been an email. Our trick? Hybrid venues and sleek multi-purpose experiences. Sure, cocktails and burgers are great, but paired with a raging film club or arcade game? That’s where the good stuff's at. 

Enter The Gin Experience aka Urban Botanica’s new choose-your-adventure-style sipping session.  

Juicy, creamy burrata dishes are ripe for the picking in Auckland. Some simple, some jazzed up. Some pocket-sized, some re-imagined as full-size mains. All very, very scrumptious. 

You bring the booze and they’ll take care of the food at any one of these fine Auckland establishments. Read on to discover the best BYO restaurants in Auckland and get ready to eat, drink and be merry!

We’ve tracked down the best all-you-can-eat restaurants for when à la carte just doesn’t cut it. Stretchy pants advised.

Ahhh Karangahape Road. One of the most vibrant, creative, and bangin’ precincts in all of Tāmaki Makaurau.

From creamy kormas and crispy pakora to dry fire-breathing curries and fluffy biryani, here are the best Indian restaurants in Auckland.

Māori Language Week is just around the corner (14-21 Mahuru/September to be exact) and here are 10 ways to celebrate. 

This week, and every week henceforth, we encourage you to go beyond learning how to order your coffee in Māori in exchange for a free brew at work, and do something to create a lasting impact for yourself and te reo Māori.

The independent arts festival kicks off from 2-22 September, celebrating the weird and wonderful of Auckland’s art scene, and everything in between.

Calling all snow homies, holiday heroes, music-mad, and just plain festy frothers—epic destination festival, Snow Machine is next week. And. You. Don’t. Want. To. Miss. Out. 

Father’s Day is just around the corner (1 September if you’re wondering) and while not all of us have a father we almost certainly all have someone who’s unabashedly cracked dad jokes with reckless abandon.

Consult any impassioned skincare enthusiast both IRL and on your for you page, and you’ll hear them name-drop Paula’s Choice.

From limited edition beer collabs and linen pants to packable day packs, and an edition outdoor oven, check out our hit list of the best Father's Day gifts to shop this year. 

There's only one thing better than a dumpling and that's a plate of them, along with a generous portion of chilli crisp for dipping. 

While Korean food may not be on your radar, it totally should be. If you love big, bold flavours, an abundance of free side-dishes and are all about spice, then you’re going to fall in love with Korean cuisine. 

Innovative fitness studio, Sala, has just launched a brand new studio. Meet: Chroma HIIT, a workout based on colour therapy. 

With its top-notch eateries and unrivalled views of the Waitematā Harbour, Wynyard Quarter is one of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s most beautiful spots. 

Taking your pup for a walk is all very well until you realise you’re in a park that’s a no-go for pooches. Talk about barking up the wrong tree. Luckily, there’s a whole lot of dog-friendly walks you can waltz along to your heart’s content, your fur baby by your side.

There’s a huge range of design-inspired pet products that will seamlessly blend with your decor and bring lashings of luxury. 

We all know the hunt for the next Netflix binge never ends. To make your search a little easier, we at Urban List have rounded up a slew of the best Netflix Series available in NZ right now. Grab the snacks and get comfy, here are the best shows on Netflix NZ.

Summer, winter, autumn or spring, Queenstown is a beauty to behold.

As far as celebrations go, they don't get much bigger than a wedding and here in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to finding that special somewhere to say 'I do'.

At Urban List, we are lovers of food, drink, travel, culture, and above all, our cities. Over the past 11 years, we've built Asia Pacific’s #1 destination for culture seekers—a social compass for those who live like it matters. We are one of the fastest-growing lifestyle platforms and influential content marketing channels, increasingly attracting the attention of some of the world’s best lifestyle brands—and some seriously talented people. 

There really is no combination more drool-worthy than an oozy serving of good ol’ mac ’n’ cheese. 

There's something about the humble schnitzel that never fails to satisfy. Perhaps it's the crispy golden crumb on the outside, or the juicy, tender meat on the inside—whatever the reason, one thing's for sure, this timeless comfort food that's a favourite amongst the European set is as popular now as it's ever been.

The centrepiece of Auckland’s food events is officially back on the radar: Restaurant Month is here. We’ve never been so grateful to for having 31 whole days.

Whether you want to enjoy a picnic alfresco, go for a walk, watch the sunrise or sunset or just get away from it all, here are the top suggestions for reconnecting with nature and filling your wellness cup.

Psst, we’ll let you in on a secret—heaven is a place on earth. From mainland Fiji, a scenic two-hour boat ride will take you to the magical Yasawa Islands. The word Yasawa, meaning ‘heaven’, is a totally apt translation for the breathtaking vistas seen before your very eyes.

Dig out your swimmers and wrangle your travel buddy, because we’ve done the digging and found a bunch of truly epic travel packages to Fiji this winter. 

The crew at Kathmandu have dropped a new range just in time for winter, with a whole slew of gear designed to keep your body warm and your wardrobe rotation fresh.

A secluded collection of islands stretching across the western side of Fiji, the enchanting Yasawa Islands have a reputation for filling camera rolls with shots of sun-drenched sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise waters.

New Zealand invites you to explore its breathtaking landscapes by road.

Here are eight epic day trips from Auckland for you to tick off one by one.

They say that dogs are like their owners—who’s to say your pooch isn’t also partial to a low-fat puppaccino and a catchup with the crew? 

In the season known to wreak havoc on your skin and beauty rituals, it’s all about working smarter, not harder. Here are the holy-grailers to do the heavy lifting for your face, hair and body.

It’s hard enough making sense of this dog-eat-dog world as a human, let alone as a four-legged floof. Here are the best dog training programmes for you and your doggo.  

Dogs don’t ask for much and that’s all the more reason to treat them to the finer things in life.

QT Queenstown has given us yet another excellent excuse for a cheeky getaway, and it’s Champagne-soaked. Pop a bottle, The Champagne Parlour's back. 

Nan used to say "your butcher knows best" so we’ve called on the best on Aotearoa—literally.

Whether you slurp them in soups or chew with chilli oil, we’ve rounded up the best hand-pulled noodle spots in Auckland so you can decide which way is best for yourself. 

Here are 52 things to do in Auckland this winter that will (almost) distract you from missing summer.

Nothing cheers us up more on a cold Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland day (any day, to be fair) than wrapping our mitts around a mug of hot chocolate. Whether it’s a classic number done right, or a more adventurous drop laced with peanut butter or peppermint, served in an edible cup or even topped with bright pink fairy floss, sippin’ on a hot choccy is always a good time.

You’ve inevitably stumbled into this friendly neighbourhood cafe at some stage of your life, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee greets you like an old friend, and each bite of the pastries feels like grandma baked it.

Skincare is everywhere—these are the brands that actually work and the hero products that made them famous. 

See Sydney in a brand new light this year with our guide to the best spots to eat, stay, and play on your Vivid adventure.

Auckland weather is a true ode to the power of Mother Nature who seems to have a soft spot for constantly dealing us the meteorological middle finger. Luckily, whether you’re prepared for it or not (and you probably won’t be), there’s still plenty of things to do in Auckland when it rains.

Since jetting off to the tropics isn't even an option this summer, why not take some time to wander through the Abel Tasman and explore one of Aotearoa’s best landscapes. Grab your boots and your tramping buddy, and try out 10 of the best day tramps the Abel Tasman has to offer.

Want to challenge your taste buds? Read on as we shine a spotlight on dining in the dark. 

Popping that pretty question can be a nerve-racking time—we get that. What should be a piece of cake, however, is picking out that sparkling little something to seal the deal with. Here’s your definitive list of the best places to shop for engagement rings in New Zealand.

Those in the know frequent Auckland CBD’s best-kept secret: Panacea. The intimate cocktail kitchen can be stumbled upon up an unassuming flight of stairs on O’Connell Street. 

Some Kiwis do their initiation into adulthood and go on a “gap year,” aka the big OE. For me, I didn’t exactly get that chance. Instead, I dived headfirst into a career shift in my mid-twenties. 

Don’t get us wrong, we love a night in with Netflix but it just doesn’t compare to seeing movies on the silver screen, a bucket of popcorn in hand.

Swooning for a hooning? Feel the need for speed? Careen around the race track and leave your mates in the dust at one of Tāmaki Makaurau’s best spots for Go Karting.

Commissioned by Auckland Transport, pockets of Māori mahi toi (art) are woven through the city centre. What starts as a functional project—say revamping infrastructure—becomes a powerful art project. 

We love wining and dining in Ponsonby at the best of times—but throw in some one-off creations, tasting menus, and special prices, and we really don’t need our arm further twisted. So grab your planner and round up your foodie friends, here are all the best events you need to devour this year at Eat Drink Love Ponsonby 2024:

From tiny huts in the forest to a luxurious private retreat and accommodation in an actual boot, Aotearoa has an abundance of cosy winter escapes for a cheeky weekend away.

Find the perfect Mother's Day gift for the most important woman in your life. Our hand-picked selection of unique and thoughtful gifts is sure to make her day.

Forget what you know about the Southern Lights. Aurora Australis? Please…we have something much more exciting for you! Come Queen’s Birthday weekend, Queenstown’s waterfront is set to transform into a magical forest wonderland, lit up with interactive light sculptures and illuminated art installations.

We've teamed up with Bombay Sapphire to inspire you to get out of your G&T comfort zone and stir a bit more creatively. 

Ponsonby Central has long been renowned as a vibrant precinct. Its eclectic restaurants and bars serve up everything from Cambodian to Korean and feel-good American fare. 

Buttering up the popcorn and firing up Netflix has got to be our favourite thing ever. If you’re anything like us we know you don’t relish in spending hours scrolling for something half decent to kick back to.