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Foraging for food isn't a new concept but it's certainly had a resurgence in recent years and personally, we love the idea of heading out into nature, basket/re-usable bag in hand and loading up on fresh, oft unusual grub that would otherwise go to waste.

Auckland, we've just discovered an epic new dining experience you need to know about, and it happens to involve one of our favourite restaurants—the incredibly delicious Gochu.

Almost all of us struggle with our self-confidence at some point or another. From imposter syndrome to body hang ups, there’s always something standing in our way of stepping into our power. But what if we told you that a lack of self-love could be impacting your finances?

There are few things we love more than an excellent book to big screen adaptation, and honestly, we reckon we’ve uncovered the best one yet. Enter: the highly anticipated, The Woman In The Window.

We hear great things are brewing with each day bringing a new beer experience ranging from comedy nights to doughnuts and beer pairings. So, loosen your belts because here’s all the beery fun you should be getting amongst...

Krispy Kreme, you are offically the maker of dreams. Because hot off the back of your Easter doughnuts (which were just heavenly, thank you) comes another range of drop dead delicious treats for us to drool over, dubbed Perfect Partners—and we reckon they're some of your best yet.

We’re all about celebrating and amplifying women’s voices here at Urban List—and that’s certainly the case when it comes to entertainment. Fortunately, there is a slew of incredible, female-led shows that hero women in all aspects of life—from bossing it in the boardroom and the powerful tales of friendship to crime-fighting queens. 

Fact: Schnitzel is a staple part of our diet and life without this iconic, golden, crispy pub meal would be truly ordinary. Here to remind us all of the true glory and potential of the humble schnitty is The Bavarian and a brand-new 10-week-long festival dedicated to all things schnitzel. 

Start salivating. Two of your favourite foodie brands have teamed up to turn up the heat and bring us the ultimate fiery burger collaboration. 

All designed by New York’s most prolific 22-year-old.

Covid may have put the brakes on Food Truck Fridays one too many times recently, but worry not because Britomart's fave weekly food event is returning with a bang, including a different foodie theme every week for the month of April.

If you thought LinkedIn was just Instagram for corporate white blokes, think again. LinkedIn usage is on the rise, and so are all kinds of new roles and opportunities in emerging companies and sectors, whether you’re a digital slashie or corporate climber.

It’s that time of year again… The time when we have a perfectly good excuse to go all out on the carbs. But not just any carbs guys. We’re talking hot cross buns. Not all of us have the cooking skills or privilege to bake these ourselves to our own personal taste. But little do people know how much you can do to the classic store bought ones from your local supermarket. Here are some of our favourite ways to spice up our hot cross buns.

In news that will devastate Bridgeton fans, the show has just confirmed that the Duke of Hasting, played by mega babe Regé-jean Page will not be returning for season two of the historic drama.

Elizabeth Moss, aka our fave red cloak-wearing hero June, announced back in December that The Handmaid’s Tale was returning for another two epic seasons. What we didn’t know was when we’d see the dystopian thriller hit our screens again—thanks to COVID we expected major delays…

For those of you who aren't heading away this Anzac weekend, there are heaps of fun-fuelled events happening to keep you entertained. 

Bunny kisses, Easter Wishes. Whip out your cast iron pan, we are diving into this divine hot cross buns recipe this Easter week. This ironclad cranberry, currant, orange and maple hot cross cuns by Felicity Morgan-Rhind is going to straight to our cook book. 

When it comes to finding somewhere decent to drink, us Aucklanders have it pretty damn good. From sunny rooftop terraces to moody basement lounges and everything in between, there's something to suit absolutely every taste—and we haven't even started on the actual drinks yet!

For anyone who thinks dreams don't come true, you clearly haven't been introduced to the amazing Easter-themed cocktail from our friends at Coops Corner Pub. Yes, Easter magic is well and truly in the air at this lively lil' corner of the Viaduct, and it comes in the form of—wait for it—an Easter Egg Chocolate Margarita.

Located a stone’s throw from Auckland, the Mighty Waikato is a vibrant region brimming with countless experiences to uncover. From natural wonders and adventurous activities to zen retreats and epic eats, there’s something special for each and every Aucklander.

If one thing’s for sure, indoor plants sit in a very special place in our hearts these days. You know, those cute, spiky little cacti sitting on the windowsill, or those stunning, draping string of pearls hanging on the wall. Many of you will agree that having plants around the house just makes life better.

Got the itch for a getaway? Auckland is a thrilling region that offers the opportunity for endless adventures.

In 2020 we consumed a shedload of podcasts, and the one that truly stuck out for us, was The Dropout. Not familiar? The true crime series chronicled the insane life of Elizabeth Holmes, the former billionaire turned fraudster and jail dweller. 

As long as movies and TV shows have existed, books have been used as source material. That’s essentially why the Academy Awards has a Best Adapted Screenplay category–with so many of our favourite movies being based on the words of talented authors. 

SkyCity has recently launched Fortune on Fed, a craft beer pop-up bar serving divine craft brews. Treat yourself to cheeses, cold cuts and burgers – the perfect accomplices to an excellent beer sesh.

There’s no denying that credit cards can lead to overspending. Research has shown that when you use a credit card for purchases, you spend 14% more than when using cash or a debit card. But, that’s not to say there aren’t ways to tap your plastic responsibly.

Cross St. Music Festival is back, baby. After the March lockdown rained on its parade, a new date has been released, and it’s only a couple of weeks away! 

As if Easter wasn’t already the best time of the year (there’s nothing not to love about four day long weekends coupled with glorious weather and copious amounts of chocolate), the Aviary has gone and made it a whole load better!

Waffles are one of those magical foods that can be eaten any time, anywhere (just ask Eleven, right Stranger Things fans?). Whether they're loaded with bacon and maple syrup for breakfast—topped with a stack of fried chicken for dinner—or piled high with ice cream, fairy floss and chocolate sauce for a super decadent dessert, we can't think of a single occasion where these crunchy creations aren't welcome.

Auckland’s vibrant cultures are being celebrated this month with Auckland Council’s inaugral World of Cultures festival, successor to the Auckland International Cultural Festival.

Your wedding day is quite possibly the most special and exciting day of your life. You get to lock in forever with your loved one, eat all the food, drink all the wine and dance the night away with an assortment of your favourite people. Honeymoons, however, are the icing on the cake and New Zealand just so happens to be one of the best honeymoon-ing spots in the world.

There's a lot to love about New Zealand right now (just ask anyone living overseas!), so the timing really couldn't be more perfect for the opening of the Cordis hotel's gorgeous new Kiwi-themed bar—Our Land Is Alive.

 Enlighten yourself harder than the 1700s.

Starting from today in Auckland and with Wellington and Christchurch following soon, you can now order beers, wines and spirits from over 30 local bottle shops and have it delivered direct to your door. How good. 

Need a mid-week pick-me-up? Then say ciao to De’Longhi, who could be swinging by your workplace with a very special coffee-laced treat in tow for you and all of your colleagues (are you listening, team Urban List?).

When you think of tech gurus like Bill Gates and the late Steve Jobs, you think straight-talking, no nonsense leaders. Which is why it was a total breath of fresh—and surprising—air when we caught up with Danielle Krettek, the founder of Google’s Empathy Lab.

Clear your viewing calendars for Friday 9 April, because the new terror anthology series, Them, will be dropping on your screens and trust us when we say you’re going to want to devour it in a single sitting.

They’re offering free behind-the-scenes talks in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Invercargill to share the laughs, mess ups and learnings that got Fix & Fogg to where it is today, with drinks, nibbles, nut butter and a Q&A with Roman, CEO and Founder, to round up the evening. 

Time to let op-shop fever set in. Whether you could easily lose a day browsing pre-loved goodies, or you’ve come across some of the harrowing stats about the clothing industry, there’s no denying the demand for second-hand clothes is growing.

Ben & Jerry's have launched what's potentially the world's largest-ever Easter egg hunt—with 10,000 scoops of free ice cream thrown into the mix, no less—and you're invited. Now if you're wondering what the heck a virtual Easter egg hunt is or more importantly, how you can get involved—here's the scoop.

With the cooler months on the horizon and the hope of opening borders keeping us going, you're not alone if you’ve found yourself daydreaming of a tropical vacation to Fiji.

Ever since the first lockdown (remember that?) ‘Fairy Houses’ have started popping up in a Hobsonville park and to say they’re cute as a button would be an understatement. 

When the docu-series, Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, dropped on Netflix back in March, the world was equal parts enthralled and confused by the peroxide mulleted, gun-toting, occasional country singer turned big cat keeper. 

If you're a Kiwi of a certain age, chances are your childhood birthday parties consisted of three main treats—cheerios, sausage rolls and fairy bread. Now Shake Out is bringing you right on back to the days of pass-the-parcel and pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, with a magical Fairy Bread Shake that's a legit party in the mouth.

To help us bounce back from our lockdown blues, the ever-innovative hospo industry is here to tickle your taste buds with some much-craved international nibbles and cocktails.

First off, let's start with some sad news—producers of Killing Eve have just announced that after four seasons, the series will officially wrap. But, wipe those tears away guys because the great news is that a spin-off series is already in development.

Make tracks for this pop-up bar that's hit Morningside where you can sip pink drinks beneath pink disco balls and hanging greenery in a purpose-built Pink Bar - a garden oasis that’s sure to look awe worthy on your insta stories... and who doesn’t love a bit of pink on their gram?

Get your slurp on, a new pasta joint has landed on K’Road and it’s pasta-tively delicious! (we had to). 

Prepare to have your mind blown, because one of the country's favourite lollies now comes in ice cream form.

If you hadn’t previously considered this nature lover’s paradise as a destination for a soul-enriching Aussie holiday, here are four good reasons to convince you to book the trip to Tasmania.

If recent events have taught us anything, it’s that we should take up any chance to get together and celebrate. 

We're more than ready for this.

The Viaduct is already awash with exciting activations thanks to a lil' thing called The America's Cup, now we've got what could be your best incentive yet to get down to the waterfront. How does tequila ice cream sound?

Today, Urban List launched a new partnership with one of Australia’s brightest fintechs—a personal investing platform called Pearler. 

Just watched Oprah interview Meghan and Harry? We got you.

Why is updating your resumé so freakin’ stressful!? What goes in? What comes out? How long is too long? We all have these same questions. But, often we get so caught up trying to stuff in all the reasons why we’re worth hiring, that we forget to can the stuff that’s a major turn off to hiring managers.

Are you firmly on the side hustle bandwagon and keen to take it further? Whether you’re trying to quit your full-time job or simply scale up your side income, our resident finance blogger and side hustle queen, The Broke Generation, is sharing her top tips on growing your side hustle in 2021.

Listen up team, because we're about to put the cherry on top of your summer. Mövenpick has opened a brand new boutique in Mt Eden and it's here to make your wildest ice cream dreams come true.

These eight female owner-operators are making waves in an industry with more businesses you can shake a fork at, and have taken the time to discuss the hard truths as to what it takes to run the show.

We had some insightful chats with cool local businesswomen, dishing out thoughtful advice on what it takes to run the show and demonstrating that although The Future is Female, they’re living it in the here and now.

From horror and docos to action and comedy, every day of the year—including IWD—is a good day to check out the brilliant work of female filmmakers. Here are 9 epic films directed by women available on Netflix.

Without further ado, here’s our list of 10 epic movie locations around Auckland that made it onto the big screen.

LGBTQI+ stories on screen have become more prevalent in recent years (and rightly so), giving a historically silenced community a proud voice. From confronting and necessary stories of hardship depicting the queer community’s history and current realities to ones of hope and joy which celebrate and normalise LGBTQI+ sexuality and relationships. Lucky for us, streaming platforms are now dedicating more of their libraries to sharing tales of romantic love, friendship, family, self-love, and community.

We spoke to nine awesome entrepreneurs who reveal how they start their day, and given their track record for creating uber successful careers and businesses, we reckon you might want to recreate their routines at home.

First of all—it’s going to be epic.

Krispy Kreme, you've done it again—you've come up with an incredible collab that has us drooling over our computer screens and frantically scrolling for our nearest stockist.

Level 3, here we go again... but at least we can still get our sugar fix, right?

Official champagne partner G.H. Mumm is offering champagne delivery services both dockside and direct to your boat in the Hauraki Gulf. Soak in the sun while you watch the action and get chilled champagne hand-delivered to you on a jet ski in true Gatsby style.

Ready your spoons and don your stretchy pants because an adults-only ice cream truck is going on tour—and it could be stopping at your doorstep. 

Load Up your boot on covetable botanical goodies at Auckland Plant Market happening on March 21 at Smales Farm. Expect botanical art, live music, cute planters, colorful pots, jewelry, and skincare so whether you’re looking for adorable little succulents or kokedamas, you can find it all here.

Great news, your week just got off to a sweet start thanks to the good people at Pascall, who have bought together two of their most-loved lollies in one seriously scrumptious treat—Milkshakes Flavour Lumps.

We're pretty blessed here in NZ to get groceries—and even alcohol—delivered direct to our door, despite being in the midst of a nationwide lockdown. But after a bit of digging, we've discovered there's actually a number of other sweet products you can score online, that aren't milk, bread... or gin.

Kiss goodbye those roots and split ends the environmentally-friendly way, here are the very best of the sustainable salons in Auckland. 

Welcome to Ask Allira, the monthly column where sassy psychic and badass spiritual and mindset coach Allira Potter will sprinkle her special brand of magic by answering your burning questions on all things love, life and wellness.

The fine-dining scene is fantastic but Tasmania’s real point of difference—and appeal—is the short distance between paddock/trawler and plate, and the chance to meet the passionate distillers, winemakers, chefs, fishermen, providores and fromagers who call this community-minded, culinary haven home.

Waterbourne is a three-week extravaganza and will be New Zealand’s biggest beach festival and comes as part of Auckland Unlimited’s epic Summernova programme. 

Giving fans a real, raw look at their life behind the spotlight, we’ve rounded up the best celebrity documentaries you need to know about.

If you’re on constant lookout for new adventure and enjoy a healthy dose of adrenaline in your bloodstream, then canyoning is a must. 

Say hello to Mighty Hotdog—a Korean-style hotdog joint dishing out some seriously delicious snags. 

Ain’t no party like a street party—get ready for Parnell’s very own street party filled with groovy tunes, good vibes, and great food. As part of the Summernova line up, Parnell’s Faraday street festival will be pumping on 26 February.

Oh Lewis Road, how your flavoured milks make our hearts sing! Especially your latest offering, which combines the deliciousness of banana and caramel in a drink that tastes just like banoffee pie.

New Year is possibly the best holiday in existence. There’s something incredibly freeing about the idea of a year ticking over making us feel like we’re ready to face anything. 

​If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the past 12 months, it’s that prioritising your mental health and wellbeing is paramount. While many people claim meditation as the holy grail of mindfulness, it begs the question—what if you struggle to meditate or don’t enjoy it?

Whether you’re after a slow, healing holiday or exhilarating adrenaline experiences — or perhaps a mixture of the two — Tasmania has you covered. With nearly half of its landmass protected as national park and World Heritage wilderness, this easily accessible Australian island state offers a rare balance of heart-thumping adventure and heartwarming relaxation.  

Whittaker's Hundreds & Thousands choccy block is back, baby! That's right, the brand's most requested flavour of all time is returning after a seven-year hiatus, and it's just the kinda news we Kiwis need this week.

We caught up with fishing connoiseur and all round legend Tom Johanson of TRYCD to give us the inside oil on where to find the best fishing spots in Auckland.

A snazzy new fish and chip shop that'll do more than catch your eye. 

If your bad days are dragging into bad weeks, or the sad songs you’ve got on high rotation on Spotify are doing more harm than good, then it’s possible you’re stuck in a low mood because of something more serious, like anxiety or depression.

Picture this; your eyes are glued to the T.V. set watching your latest Blockbuster rental, Fruju tropical snow in hand, McCain Potato Smiles are the only food group that matters and your most prized possession is a portable CD player—feeling nostalgic yet? Us too. 

If there’s one thing Netflix just absolutely nails, it’s a solid documentary. While they’ve been dominating the true crime genre lately (we dig), their latest offering chronicles one of music's biggest stars, the late, great Notorious B.I.G.

From 5 February to 28 March, Wellington’s streets will become centre stage for a free, city-wide programme of music, art, dance and theatre as part of the newly launched festival, What If The City Was A Theatre? 

Landing a sweet new gig is a great feeling, but all too often it’s shadowed by the sheer dread of resigning from your current role. Fear not, we’ve got you covered with an easy-as guide to resigning like a total pro.

Our obsession with true crime-inspired series knows no end, which is why we want to do a solid for our fellow dark hearts out there by introducing you to Inventing Anna, Netflix’s new binge-worthy show.

Meet Candela – a Spanish/Latin American-inspired eatery and wine bar that will whisk you and your tastebuds away on the trip of a lifetime.

It's going to be a big year for music.

Whether you’re looking to impress a new date or want to inject some excitement into a long-term relationship, these 50 summer date ideas are guaranteed to get the romance going. 

There are few things we love more than a healthy dose of retail therapy, but when a day of shopping is paired with live tunes, epic eats and entertainment, well, that’s a recipe for the ultimate day out. 

If you can’t seem to shift the nagging thought—no, dream—about how good would life be if you were your own boss, working on something you are passionate about every day and dictating hours that suit you, then it might be time to ditch your nine to five.

Are you and the crew craving something fresh for your next night out? With so much to celebrate there’s no better time to take things to the next level and try something new, which is why we’ve teamed up with Westfield Newmarket to let you know all the happenings on Auckland’s best rooftop precinct.

​If you’ve never been into colouring books, puzzles seem far too mundane, you could ever stay consistent with journaling, we think we may have just found your favourite new mindfulness hobby.

Aucklanders! We are surrounded by beauty, and what is more beautiful that the sweet scent of flowers? Luckily for us, there are an abundance of Auckland gardens to stroll through. So, the next time you have a spare afternoon, you opt for soaking in the spectacular Auckland’s gardens. 

Introducing Anti-Valentine’s Day, the best night out for those riding solo, celebrating with mates, or with Tinder dates in tow.

For the swooners, the crooners and antics under the doonas.

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.

A new year is a great time for goals, but often we neglect to check in with where we’re at with our work wellbeing. Here are our favourite healthy work habits to get your career in the groove today and always.

Get ready to get the drinks and your creative juices flowing at this boozy painting in the park.

From hiking the Cradle Mountain Overland Track to cycling Tasmania’s East Coast, this is your chance to slow down and see this island state from a new perspective. You’ll feel the crunch of wilderness beneath your feet, breathe in the crisp sea air, and hike to misty mountaintops in what is a true bucket list-worthy experience. 

Get ready to take your stargazing up a notch with the best places to stargaze in New Zealand. 

With a thriving arts scene, fascinating wildlife, pristine wilderness and mouth-watering foodie experiences, Tasmania is the perfect destination for a memorable and rejuvenating overseas getaway for every type of traveller.

Time to crack open a bottle of Butterbeer.

Awaken your tastebuds, a new plant-based eatery has nestled into Nelson Street. 

Nothing beats good food and breathtaking views, so why not combine the two and head out for a picnic. We've taken the hard part out of your picnic organisation and put together a list of seven of the best spots you can set yourself up at around Auckland. 

If like us, you love a summer adventure, then pack up your things, hit the road and get ready for an epic staycation.

Strap yourself in, 2021 is going to deliver quite possibly the most intense, binge-worthy Netflix series yet. Yep, we know it’s a big call but trust us, Behind Her Eyes is the perfect mix of psychological thriller meets twisted romantic drama with just a touch of supernatural fantasy. Yes it’s hectic and yes, you’ll love it.

So, we’ve rounded up a few Auckland based business who nail the grazing craze with their exquisitely put together platters. So get amongst this trend and make your next event a little bit extra.

Get your political fix post US inauguration.

Whether it’s the reflection lakes of Wanaka or the emerald green waters that crater the Tongariro Crossing, Aotearoa is home to some amazing bodies of water. 

Lucky for you ice cream lovers, the locals in Mount Maunganui and Tauranga sure know how to create delicious ice cream in every flavour under the sun. Freshly made waffle cones, whipped cream and chocolate sauce, optional. Here are our picks of the best ice cream shops in The Mount and Tauranga.

Paint your mate to resemble a resident of Pandora at Paintvine’s awesome new painting experience. Held this February 14 at Auckland’s Platform 8, why not skip the fancy dinner and get up close and personal with your partner to spice up your Valentine’s day.

Aucklanders are spoilt for choice with two harbours and a rich maritime history, so where better to celebrate its anniversary than harbourside? Ports of Auckland invites you to Seeport in honour of the city’s 181st birthday. 

We can’t lie, we’re big old geeks when it comes to the Marvel Comic Universe (MCU) and while we don’t like to play favourites… Elizabeth Olsen’s Wanda Maximoff is right up there with the best. Which is why we’re seriously stoked that Maximoff’s very own spin-off series, WandaVision, finally hit our screens this week. 

While after work drinks are great and all, sometimes there’s nothing like challenging your mates to a game of skill while you’re at it. Enter Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen. They’ve set up the Sweat Shop Shuffle Club—Auckland’s only floor-based shuffleboard—on their expansive deck.

Maison Mumm is once again partnering with the 36th America’s Cup presented by Prada and they’re constructing an impressive two storey, custom-built bar from which to lounge, drink and make merry right in the heart of the America’s Cup village.

We’ve found seven cool and quirky places to camp in and around Queenstown. So pack your bags and get out there.

If you haven’t yet binged Netflix’s newest historical-romance, Shonda Rhimes' adaptation of Julia Quinn’s novels Bridgerton, (seriously, what have you been doing instead!?)—you might be confused by the sudden collective obsession with Regency-era style. 

Today we’re talking caves. These mysterious underground caverns are home to many fun things: glow-worms, stalagmites and stalactites, bats, Sméagol and a whole lot of other creepy crawlies that we’d prefer not to think about.

Guess what, people?! Summer is here and there’s a heck of a lot to be excited about.

Asking for more money can make for awkward conversations, especially if this is your first-time consulting, so here is some advice on how to approach it with your clients and to be confident in your ask.

Waiheke Distilling Co are opening their doors this weekend on New Zealand Gin day to its one-of-a-kind gin bar. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Rotorua and Pakatoa islands along with refreshing gin cocktails and a basket filled with local produce and delicacies.

Spending on stuff we don’t need is the ultimate thief of joy, but all too often those purchases happen when we’re in a specific emotional state, making it extra tricky to reign it in. Stress, anxiety, comparison, low self-esteem or even plain old boredom—all of these states put us at risk of handing over hard earned cash for a quick fix of dopamine that doesn’t last.

Forget paying through the nose, here are 11 of the best under-the-radar baches available in pristine regional parks dotted around Tāmaki Makaurau.

Farm Dinners will be plating a delicious five-course menu using Kelmarna’s organic seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Premium gin purveyors Bombay Sapphire are heading up four awesome workshops that will allow you to stir your creativity from the comfort of your own home, cocktail in hand.

You can stop holding your breath because the final movie in the romantic comedy trilogy, To All The Boys: Always and Forever, has finally got a release date, and it’s right around the corner...

If you’re anything like us, you devoured Bridgerton on Boxing Day whilst on the couch stuffing yourself silly with leftover Christmas ham and BBQ prawns. It was but a blissful eight hours that ended in tragedy when you realised you’d finished the entire season of Shonda Rhimes binge-worthy Netflix series in just one day. While we patiently wait for news of a second season (don’t worry, it will happen), we’ve done you a serious solid and found 17 juicy, historical shows to fill the Bridgerton-shaped hole in your life. 

We’re a sucker for a good playlist, allowing our favourite Netflix series to live on, way after the credits roll.

This will be a summer you won’t forget. 

4K All The Way.

 And just like that, we have a new TV series on the horizon.

Just when you thought Netflix was about to run out of the goods—after all, we well and truly binged the crap out of its entire suite of programs in 2020—it’s come through with a new movie, and it’s a straight up piece of art.

It's set to be a big year.

The Bavarian is dishing up a bottomless meat and cheese board for the first month of 2021.

A pop up bar slinging signature G&T's by Fever-Tree and Bombay Sapphire has just opened at Wynyard Pavilion, Steinlager’s official supporter’s bar of Emirates Team New Zealand, where you can catch all the racing action while basking in the sun, with a cheeky gin and tonic in hand. 

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we never know what’s coming. We can’t control the future, despite our best efforts. But we can adapt and innovate. And that’s exactly what these creative conferences explore. They’re the place to be if you want to be the first to know about innovations, new technologies and the future of creative industries. Check out what’s on offer in 2021 and get ready to have your mind blown. 

 That first week hits different, doesn’t it?

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight…Aucklanders, while the South Island may be famous for its skies, we’re pretty damn lucky too. 

Margo’s, Queenstown’s hottest new Mexican Restaurant and Bar has launched a new bottomless brunch just in time for Summer, and we’re not lying when we say we’re bloody pumped for this one. 

Oh cannoli, what did we ever do to deserve you? The Italians truly knew what they were doing when creating these sweet little parcels of perfection.

The Ōmanawanui Track along with Puriri Ridge Track is a six-kilometre upgrade to the Te Ara Tūhura / Hillary Trail. Make a day of it and take the new scenic route from Huia and Whatipu. Load up on sandwiches and sunscreen as this track is 12 kilometres long taking 5.5 hours each way.

Is The Little Mermaid your homegirl? Do you have dreams of befriending a flounder and brushing your hair with a fork? Well, Ariel, do we have news for you: you can make all your mermaid dreams a reality with snorkeling!

One thing we can probably all agree on? 2020 was a bit of a jerk. Most of us learnt to live that work-from-home life, playing musical chairs with our housemates as we vied for the best desk set up in the kitchen before eventually talking to our house plants for some company—it's safe to say we’re glad to see the back of it.

2020 has certainly been a strange year, but we're pleased to report that in spite of it all, a number of new drinking spots have come to the fore here in Auckland, with plenty of goodies amongst them. Whether you're looking for somewhere crankin' to take the crew, or a more intimate spot to take that hot date, we've got a few suggestions for ya—and they're right here on our list of best new bars for 2020.

We learned a lot of things in 2020. So. Many. Things. One of those things is that a crushing, crippling global pandemic can’t stop, won’t stop the fast-paced sneaker release market. Oh no, in spite of all its downsides, 2020 birthed a lot of new sneakers.

It might have been the year of home-delivered booze and bottled cocktails sipped in sweats and socks—but in spite of it all, a resilient hospitality industry in both Australia and New Zealand brought the goods with some seriously stunning new venues in 2020.

You want to do things differently this year? You will! Change is the ONLY certainty in 2021, but this month, staying realistic about how fast it can all happen is essential. Shaking up everything at once just isn’t practical, so start small and break up your game plan into bite-sized pieces.

If you love nothing more than a little design porn, or you’re just planning an eat-inerary now that borders are reopening, these are the most beautiful new restaurants that opened in 2020. 

There’s a lot that goes into excellent fish and chippies. Done right— just-caught-straight-off-the-boat fish with a golden batter, a squeeze of lemon, served with crunchy yet fluffy potato chips—and it’s a culinary masterpiece. When it’s done wrong, the end results can be well, ho hum—think stodgy, grey, and heaven forbid, soggy. We wore loose shorts and licked our greasy fingers eating our way around Tauranga and the Mount to bring you the very best places to get fish and chips. So without further ado, here they are.

2020 was the year we needed podcasts more than ever. From giving us the chance to virtually armchair travel around the world, to listening to groundbreaking investigative journalism firsthand—there’s been a shedload of incredible podcasts hitting the airwaves this year. If you’re in need of some solid recommendations for summer, you’re in luck because we’re here to tell you what to plug into as you hide from your extended family this holiday season.

When thinking about matches made in entertainment heaven, it doesn’t get much greater than Netflix and Shonda Rhimes. The powerhouse producer is responsible for a slew of award-winning series—like Scandal, How to Get Away With Murder and Grey’s Anatomy—and now, thanks to a rumoured nine-figure deal she’s inked with the streaming giant, we can expect a whole lot of Shondaland goodness coming our way.

Support local—it's a term we've all become well accustomed to in 2020 and one we're shining a (bright Christmas) light on one last time, before the year is through. Because when it comes to great gifts, us Kiwis really know how to make 'em—and make 'em good.

After the endless rounds of turkey, ham, pavlova and berries you need a well-deserved rest. Stay away from the streams of shoppers and get out of that kitchen this Boxing Day. 

There’s no need to flee the city for New Year, everything you need is right on your doorstep  

From 10am on Saturday 19 December, Wellingtonians will be able to get their hands on the famous yellow-stitched boots at the brand new Dr Martens flagship store on Cuba Street.

Who doesn't love a bit of quality café time? There's not a lot us Urban Listers love more than stepping out for brekkie, brunch, lunch or even just a cup of coffee and a cheeky treat, and while Aucklanders are already super spoilt for places to eat (you only need look at our list of best brekkies), there are a few new kids on the café block this year that we think you'll want to know about.

We don't care what anyone says, we can't get enough of festive flicks. Fortunately, the streaming gods have gifted us with yet another sleigh load of feel-good Christmas movies, from old school classics to rom-com newbies, all you need to do is organise bulk snacks for a mammoth viewing marathon. 

How many have you seen?

There’s no doubt about it, we all deserve a holiday after the year we’ve had.

If you're after a cool new spot to sink some drinks this summer, head on over to Brolly—an exciting new pop-up bought to us by the team behind one of our all-time favourite bars, Parasol & Swing. And you won't have to look hard to find it—it's located on the latter's lower level.

One of the largest floating parks in New Zealand, Waterworld will pop up across several beaches from St Heliers to Browns Bay and it is a guaranteed good time, for both participants and onlookers alike.

While it’s AMAAZING to get out of Auckland for a roadie, we also know that sometimes you’ve just gotta (or wanna) stay in town. And as the weather heats up, we’re lucky enough to not have to drive for a day to feel the cool embrace of the ocean. 

In the pursuit of serenity, we’ve found some of the best camping spots in and around Wellington. Whether you’re a tent-pitcher or glamping only type, there’s something for you, check out these epic camping spots.

2020 has been a year of highs, lows—and a slew of new restaurants, as it turns out. Yip, we're as surprised as anyone that during the year COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the globe, the Auckland food scene was going off; bringing us everything from a steakhouse direct from the Big Apple and an eatery that specialises exclusively in vegan Thai, through to new ventures from some of our most celebrated chefs.

Be the ultimate host with absolutely minimal effort. 

It’s something that’s usually reserved for the rich and famous, but now, you too can achieve baller status by renting out an entire floor of a luxe hotel and throwing the most epic party. That’s right, the cool kids at QT want you to send off the rollercoaster that is 2020 in total style by launching Floor’d—a one-of-a-kind wild night in that allows you to book the whole floor at one QT’s 10 swanky digs located around Australia and New Zealand.

You want to have one of those “remember that night…?” nights out in Auckland but clubbing just ain’t your thang? Don’t worry, you don’t have to spend your Saturdays at home eating canned tuna.

Sit back and take in the views as fave Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, Azabu, has just opened their second restaurant in Mission Bay.

If 2020 has taught us anything it’s that spending our time on Earth with purpose and meaning is a top priority. But this looks different for everyone—whether that be creating a loving family, pursuing your side-hustle or contributing to a better future for our planet and whānau. 

We're just going to come right out and say it. Amazon Prime Video is a mammoth vault of epic TV series you won't be able to stop watching. From murder mysteries to killer comedies and new sci-fi plots to cult favourites, there are so many brilliant shows worth bingeing your way through.

One of the best parts about Auckland is the fact that writing a list of the best beaches within a region is absolutely possible. We tend to forget other countries that don’t have this advantage and we need to pay some respect to the blessing.

Lacking inspiration for what to do on the weekend? We understand your pain and that’s why we are here—to give you the inspiration to make this weekend the best you’ve had in a while. Sometimes all you need is a little time spent with nature to make you realise the good things in life are right in front of you. 

This is not a drill! Despite blessing our ears back in July—AKA the epicentre of lockdown life—with her surprise album Folklore, Taylor Swift has gone and done us all a solid, gifting us yet another EP. And yes, she’s here to save 2020, one dreamy track at a time.

As if you needed further proof that vampires were well and truly trending in 2020, this is it—HBO has revealed they’re rebooting cult classic True Blood. That’s right, the vamps are coming outta their coffins.

Just five days out from Christmas, a slew of the country's most talented artisans will descend on Eden Park for the ultimate festive market. That's right, on Sunday December 20 New Zealand's most famous stadium will be ditching sports in favour of all things festive, with General Collective bringing the goods one final time this Christmas market season. 

We’ve rounded up some of the most progressive shows out there at the moment which all champion a greater movement to normalise so many aspects of sexuality, be it identity, consent or practising safer sex.

Forget whipped dalgona coffee, soft brew coffee is where it’s at right now.

How is it already the season to be muttering New Year’s resolutions?! In the year that’s felt like it’s lasted for 84 years one moment, and 11 minutes the next, it’s no surprise we’re less than ready to be setting lofty goals for 2021.

A modern Pacific and New Zealand dining experience has landed in Britomart.

If you would love to spend your weekend gazing at art-adored walls with a quizzical look on your face thinking ‘what the heck is that!?’ or ‘I could do a better job than that’ then we have found the best places for you.

With borders closed we’re always on the hunt for travel inspiration, advice and hacks. 

Nothing has us feeling more festive than a completely over-the-top display of Christmas lights—yes, this is definitely a case of the more the merrier! Lucky for us Aucklanders, a decent dose of holiday twinkle is never far away, even with a few notable locations pulling out this year due to COVID-19 (Franklin Road, you're breaking our hearts).

If you’re planning a Queenstown getaway, make it a memorable one by heading out to Glenorchy and exploring the impressive scenery in an electric 4WD buggy. Delta Discovery offers self-drive tours (so much more fun taking on river crossings yourself) in a 100% emissions free vehicle loaded with GPS technology. 

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?

If there’s one thing we want to keep from 2020, it’s cooking and entertaining at home. Not only is it a cost-effective way to get together with friends or simply enjoy a delicious meal, but it’s also the perfect excuse to up your culinary skills and experiment in the kitchen.

Aucklanders, you’re in for a treat. The Auckland museum is set to host the tallest LEGO brick model in all of the Southern Hemisphere as part of the Brickman Awesome LEGO exhibition.

This month we’re getting a major upgrade, with two planets (Saturn and Jupiter) changing signs. Expect a major vibe change—a little less heavy, and a little more heady; less “hard no” and more “how do we fix this?”. On the 22nd a major cosmic reset begins a new 200-year cycle that’s more focused on information, communication, ideas and data.

The eclectic local crowd knows how to have a good time and they’re just as likely to invite you along for the ride. So, buckle up and take in some of the best things to do in Dunedin by night.

Cult chicken joint, Winner Winner is opening a brand-new nest on the Shore. Bought to us by the same team behind BurgerFuel, this eggciting new eatery will be located on Anzac Road in Takapuna and joins three successfully-hatched stores in Wellington, Hamilton and Pukekohe.

In some juicy news fresh off the [burger] press, renowned spice connoisseurs, Nando’s, have unleashed their new menu in New Zealand and hooo-boy it’s an oozy doozy. 

Get all ‘Stranger Things’ with your fairy lights this Christmas. 

Possibly the world's most famous alcohol company, Moet & Chandon, are throwing an exclusive event this Saturday night November 28 to celebrate the things that defined 2020—the importance of togetherness and making every moment count.

Goldberg is back baby!

If you’ve ever dreamed of going to a drive-in cinema—and frankly, who hasn’t?—now’s your chance. On November 26, Cinema at the Stadia will be turning Mt Smart Stadium into the country’s biggest drive in cinema and screening four killer movies.

If you’re a fan of movies that cause you sleepless nights and make you question everything you thought you knew about the paranormal, then you’ll want to mark 5 December in your diary because Netflix is about to drop the scariest movie of the year—and even better, it was filmed in Australia. 

Queenstown is synonymous with adrenaline—it has not only forged an enduring reputation as a world leader in adventure tourism but has continued to adapt, innovate and evolve to reach new heights (excuse the pun) in the name of tourism—and we just can’t get enough. 

That sweet summer feeling is on the way and we’re here for it all. Everything from long weekends to balmy evening walks and, of course, delicious summer drinking. 

Launching 6pm AEST on November 23 across Australia and New Zealand, GenFEST ‘20 is General Pants Co's biggest offer in history. Giving you access to over 100 exclusive—and never before seen—styles.

Forget Mardi Gras, Viaduct hotspot Coops Corner are going one better and throwing their very own 'Margi Gras'/frozen margarita festival on Saturday 28 November. So if sinking tequila-laced slushies in the sun sounds like your kinda thing (hell yes!), then listen up.

You’ve probably heard that the gut is the second brain, or that you are what you eat. If you’re wondering how to approach healthier eating, look no further. The Two Raw sisters are here to help with cookbooks that’ll have you making easy, cost effective plant based dishes.

 Just like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber, Six60 are sharing their story on the big screen. Till The Lights Go Out hits cinemas 26 November and trust me when I say the boys don’t hold anything back. From each member's origin story to internal struggles within the group, they give fans a true insight into their lives. 

As Urban Listers, we know you'll be familiar with the name Peter Gordon. You'll also be familiar with the fact that the Whanganui-born chef has spent the last 30+ years carving out a very successful career in London, whilst juggling a handful of restaurants here (The Sugar Club amongst them).

Roller skating legend Macarena (founder of Hey Macarena) is teaming up with Crazy Eights Roller Skates to host a Studio 54, 70s-themed roller disco party on December 5 2020.

“I wish I didn’t get organised with my Christmas shopping!” said no one, ever.

Psst you! Yes, you! It’s no secret Auckland is one awesome city full of equally awesome things to see and do. However, many of the city’s greatest gems are top secret. Discovering all these hidden nooks and crannies would take a lifetime. So, to help you out, we’ve rounded up the city’s best secret spots you must visit. Please note: All of these are hush hush so don’t tell anyone, okay?

Skating is more than a sport. It’s an expression of self. An exercise. A hobby. And most of all, a lifestyle. Once you’ve tried skating, there’s not much that compares. Imagine flying down the sidewalk, feeling the wind on your face, adrenaline pumping through your body, nothing but a board between you and the harsh asphalt…beauty. 

Good news, it’s not all about being an influencer.

The Urban Wine Walk is going down in Wellington on Saturday 28 November and will see the capital's best bars and restaurants turn into urban cellar doors for your self-guided walking tour.

With the temperature rising, it’s officially time to sort your outdoor space for the season. 

Who says you can't work out and have fun? If you are looking for a workout that combines strength training, agility, stability, yet a conventional run or workout routine at the gym just doesn't quite get your adrenaline rushing, look no further. 

Ah, vampires—love them or hate them, these fanged, sexy and sometimes sparkly creatures have captured the hearts of readers and viewers for years. 

Guaranteeing all the cosy, Christmassy feels we’re desperately craving.

The Coromandel Peninsula, home to some of the country’s most idyllic beaches, native flora and relaxed seaside towns, is the ideal place for a weekend—or midweek—getaway. From quirky Airbnbs to breezy villas and bougie coastal homes with panoramic views, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Here are the best places to stay in the Coromandel.

Our windy capital makes for the perfect weekend getaway. Wellington is rich with interesting sights, delicious food and coffee strong enough to make any caffeine junky weep. So, why not get blown away this weekend with what our capital has to offer. 

If you needed another reason to get excited about the opening of QT's first hotel in Auckland, Esther is it. The latest venture from renowned chef Sean Connolly (formerly of Sky City's The Grill and Gusto at the Grand), this one takes pride of place on the ground floor of this funky new establishment and let us tell you, it's a feast for the senses.

Let’s face it—the Land of the Long White Cloud is pretty much the most beautiful country in the whole entire world. And, we Kiwis get to actually live here. Yep, pinch yourself, because we live in paradise. 

Set to become your new obsession, this morning (or hell, any time of day really) pick-me-up has been variously referred to as “cake in a cup” and “tiramisu minus the biscuit and chocolate”. 

New Zealanders are becoming more connected to their choices than ever, making conscious decisions on the 5 W’s (and H) of spending our money. And for what reason? Why, the future of our planet of course!

Drinks delivered to your doorstep. What a wonderful concept. Unfortunately (or fortunately) it's become a bit of a necessity in recent times, but we're here to tell you if your bar cart is running dry New Zealand has plenty of options to top you up. 

Something delicious has been brewing between Whittaker's and Garage Project and yip, you guessed it—it's choccy-flavoured beer.

You don't have to be Addison Rae Easterling for a lucrative career on TikTok.

When it comes to plant-based eating, Dunedin brings its A game. We’re talking dedicated shrines of veggie goodness creating such epic concoctions, you won’t even notice you’re eating healthy. Even the most stalwart carnivores will be convinced to add a little more plant spice to their lives. Viva la revolution.

Had a chance to think about those niggles during lockdown? Maybe you were doing yoga and now you’ve returned to feeling like you have a back that’s a decade ahead of your age. If there’s one thing to be learned, it’s that taking a little time for yourself might feel stressful but you’re on the road to better things. Apply that principle to your health and you’ll find yourself at WYLD Chiropractic. 

Baos, or also known as gua bao (刈包) in Chinese, are these fluffy pillows of happiness filled with crispy golden pork belly with just the right mix of grazed honey and savory soy. Although originally a much-loved street food in Fujian, China, you’ll be pleased to hear that Auckland dishes them out in bulk.

When it comes to advent calendars, why should the kid have all the fun? Well they don't, as it turns out—because a growing number of brands are cashing in on the festivities with their very own boujee versions that, quite frankly, are a whole lot better than the choccy numbers of our youth.

The Urban Wine Walk is going down in Ponsonby on Saturday 7 November and will see Ponsonby's best bars and restaurants turn into urban cellar doors for your self-guided walking tour.

Auckland Art Gallery is offering free drop-in figure drawing sessions on Friday lates. As the name suggests, you are free to come and go whenever you please. 

Beach please, if there’s one thing Kiwis know how to do well it’s the sun, surf and sand. Luckily just north of Auckland you'll be treated to some of New Zealand’s best beaches tucked away in the picturesque Bay of Islands. Think bright blue waters, rolling waves and secluded picnic spots. 

It’s not often that Wellingtonians go crazy over something out of Hamilton, but when it comes to Duck Island, locals are screaming for it. 

Spring has brought with it an epic pop up that you’re going to want to know about. For the first time ever, gelato will be infused with wine seltzer at a first-of-its-kind boozy gelato scoop shop in the heart of Auckland city. These bad boys are sure to slake your thirst. 

If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that nothing beats the smell of fresh flowers and, luckily for us we live in one of the best countries in the world for all things flora and fauna. Fields upon fields of native wildflowers take over every part of our country and we’ve rounded up the best spots to hunt these suckers down.

To feed our obsession with bees we caught up with the founder of Bees Up Top, Jessie Baker to ask her all our burning bee-related questions and to also ask how she ended up championing our tiny buzzy friends.