Spons

Let’s be honest, Mother Nature is one amazing lady. She’s the mastermind behind some of life’s finest things: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, forests…the list goes on. 

Found: A cringe-free, wholesome and fun Valentine’s Day date idea they'll actually love. 

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

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

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

It’s time to pack away those winter jackets people because summer is officially here. If last year is anything to go off, we’re in for one hell of a hot holiday. And boy are we ready for it. Together with Hawaiian Tropics we’ve got you covered with must-dos that will serve you well through to the the first chill of Autumn.

If you’re the person who somehow ends up the nominated event planner for your group, we feel you. But don’t worry fearless party leaders, because help is at hand. And it comes in the form of private dining rooms. Together with SKYCITY, here are five private dining rooms that will have you looking like the ultimate hostess without breaking a sweat.

If there is one single accessory every woman should invest in it’s her handbag. We all love a cheap fashion piece, whether it is that 80s style bum bag or the current tiny glasses trend. But there’s just some things you can’t gamble on, and one of those is your handbag, aka your life source. Our partners at Gem Visa totally get that, so together we’re unlocking a list of curated faves and why you should hit ‘add to cart’ on them.

Payday came and went and you’ve got nothing to show for it. Oops. It can feel as though money is slipping through your fingers—but it doesn’t have to be. The little changes you make to your spending can add up to make a biiig difference.

When you’re living that busy city life, your skincare routine is often rushed or pushed to last on the agenda. Whether you’re flakey like puff pastry or fighting the oily battles, the struggle is real, and we hear your collective sighs. That’s why we teamed up with NIVEA to bring you these five skinsaving hacks for all you ladies on the go.

Nope, you did not read that title wrong. Literal cash will be hidden inside ice cream scoops this weekend. And yes, the ice cream will be free. Friends, we believe that’s exactly what they call a win-win. 

Let us walk you through a quick hypothetical. You’re trying to save money, stop eating badly, and start bringing your lunch to work. You’re two days into this new commitment when you’ve begun to run out of ingredients, you’ve already spent more on groceries for the week than you would have on buying lunch each day, and you’re sick to death of tinned tuna.

Well, holy moly. It’s officially the best time to be Kiwi ever. Why? Because the almighty Kiwi icons Tip Top and Whittaker’s have just dropped the mother of all collabs. And it’s here forever, baby!

In case you missed the memo (or have been living under an ignorance-is-bliss rock), Christmas is just around the corner. We all know what that means: Santa, summer holiday and—the best part—the work Christmas party.

When Kim Kardashian shared her love of The Ordinary’s anti-ageing serum, the internet basically had a meltdown as everyone scrambled to get their mitts on the magic formula. 

​Run, don’t walk—a new peanut butter creation is hitting New Zealand’s shores and it’s totally out of this world.

Ain’t no doubt about it: the 90s were legitimately the best decade ever. We mean, what’s not to love about jamming to the Spice Girls dressed head-to-toe in denim?! What a time to be alive. 

If you’re in a bit of a dining rut, a speak-easy turned uber-cool Japanese restaurant hidden behind a big ol’ red door on K-Road will probably do the trick. K-Road’s famous Vegas Rooms (that’s the former strip club part, if you’re too young to remember this era) are being transformed into Auckland’s coolest hidden dining spot, complete with multiple courses of Japanese food, overflowing drinks, music you can get down to, and an all-round sensory experience from the moment you find the red door. 

If you’re anything like us, you love both a) waffles and b) burgers. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, we don’t mind when…we just want the deliciousness in our belly! Well, what if we were to tell you that a waffle and a burger got together and had a baby?!

The nights are getting less frost-bite inducing, and flowers are starting to bloom, which can mean one thing: spring has sprung, people!

While we love exploring the corners of Auckland City, we’re always up for a road trip further afield. The wider region is brimming with off-the-beaten-track finds. Think: remote beaches, sculpture gardens, regional parks and—most importantly—epic food.

Hands up who loves a cheat meal?! Just as we suspected. If your favourite day isn’t cheat day, you’re obviously lying to yourself. We teamed up with the hungriest member New Balance’s squad, Sarah Collier, aka the literal queen of cheat meals to pick her brains on all things food related, because what else would we ask someone about.

In case you missed it, we’re pretty proud to call Auckland home. Our city keeps the good times coming with world-class restaurants, quirky cafes, boutique shopping and beautiful scenery. Seriously, what’s not to love?!

Thought you knew all the secret corners of Auckland? Think again! The city is filled with all sorts of quirky spots and under-the-radar finds. From hidden wine cellars and magical chai lounges to underground cinemas (literally) and urban courtyards, there’s no shortage of gems.

Here in Auckland, we can definitely get around a good brunch. Or lunch. Or dinner. Look, you get the gist: we're a darn hungry city, and we're hungry at pretty much any time and any place. So, we felt we'd do you a solid and round up seven ridiculously delicious new Auckland openings so you can impress the socks your mates when you blow their minds this weekend with their fave restaurant. 

Let’s be honest: spending money is all fun, fun, fun! Saving money is, err, not so fun. But it doesn’t have to be a total drag (or hard work). Become a lil money savvy and you can easily build those savings—without sacrificing your social life, travel plans or smashed avo (god forbid).

Living your best life is expensive, right? Wrong! You can live it up large without breaking the bank thanks to The Warehouse. The one-stop shop has it all with everything from books and vinyl to pot plants and champagne flutes. 

Tough day at work? Treat yo’self to a well-deserved island getaway… well, kinda. There’s no need to fork out on tickets to Hawaii—a tropical oasis can be found in the heart of Britomart. 

Winter isn’t coming; hell, it’s here. In fact, we’re already well and truly buried into the frosty arms of its cool embrace, which means leaving the house for anything other than to purchase an electric blanket has the appeal factor of slamming your hand in a car door. So, unless LBD stands for ‘little black Daikin-split-system-heat-bump’, we’re not interested.

Let’s be honest: we’re #blessed to call Auckland home. The city keeps the good times coming with mouth-watering restaurants, boutique shops, pampering spas and epic nightlife. Some suburbs go just that lil bit over and above, including the bustling precinct of Ponsonby.

Auckland, you’re one cool city. The 09 is chockablock with epic places to eat, drink, shop and play. From cosy cafes and bustling bars to beautiful beaches and incred walks, you’re never far from your next adventure. 

Auckland is brimming with golden-coloured leaves meaning one thing: autumn is in full swing. But not for much longer, folks. Winter is hot on its heels!

Winter is here, folks! Seriously though, how did that happen?!

Auckland is filled with all sorts of edgy, under-the-radar places to explore. From daring galleries and quirky stores, there’s no shortage of gems.

Let’s be honest, no bucket list is complete without an appearance from the USA. From the Hollywood Hills and Golden Gate Bridge to Texan BBQ and deep-dish pizza, there’s no shortage of things to see, do and—most importantly—eat!

If you’re looking for your next cheat meal, you’ve come to the right place. In a laneway in the heart of Britomart, you’ll stumble upon Orleans. Oozing intimate, speakeasy vibes, the bar-slash-eatery is all about music, liquor and New Orleans-inspired eats.

In case you missed the memo, you can’t call yourself an Aucklander until you’ve been to a SKYCITY Breakers game. The rite of passage has it all: pumping music, hilarious entertainment, celebrity spotting and—of course—fast-paced basketball. 

If there’s one thing New Zealand isn’t short on, it’s adventure. Bungy jumping, skydiving, mountain biking, snowboarding… you can have it all (and then some). The best part? The heart-racing activities will put you in the thick of the country’s breathtaking beauty. 

“I hate French food,” said no one ever. The French have made the world a better (and tastier) place with everything from croissants and crêpes to escargot and the best damn burgers in the world (sorry, America). 

We hate to break it to you, but summer is quickly becoming a distant memory. But it’s not all doom and gloom—autumn can be cool too, y’know?!

Summer is far from being over in the City of Sails. Heck, we’re just getting started! If your perfect summer day is all about cocktails and good times in the sun, then this epic party is for you.

It’s no secret: we live in the world’s most breathtaking country. From striking mountains and bubbling rivers to lush forest and white (and black!) sand beaches, New Zealand has it ALL.

We hate to break it to you, but it’s almost half way through the year already, and we don’t know about you, but we’re seriously behind on our travel goals for 2018. That’s why we’ve put together this list of under the radar (yet epic) destinations you need to tick off before the year is out.

The holidays have come to a grinding halt and it’s back to work for you. Ouch. Chances are you’re already dreaming of your next adventure. 

Let’s be honest, any getaway must (must!) involve delicious food and drink. But there’s no need to jet off to the other side of the globe to get amongst mouth-watering fare.

Not all of us can afford to live it up like a Kardashian, right? Wrong! Slum it no more, Aucklanders. Open your mind, get a lil savvy and you’ll discover plenty of ways to live like a total baller.

Auckland has no shortage of waterfalls you can feast your eyes on. From Kitekite Falls in the west to Hunua Falls in the south, these picturesque spots have us spoilt for choice.

Margot Robbie, you amazing human being you. From "The Wolf of Wall Street" to "Suicide Squad", you are one hella amazing actress. Double points because you’re also hella cool AND a total babe.

Partying on December 31 is sooo last year—literally. New Year’s Day is where it’s at!

In case you missed the memo, Christmas is just around the corner. The most magical time of the year is all about family, Santa and ALL the festive treats. 

Get ready for Barefoot and Thompson's Twilight Summer Night to heat things up this party season

Hello, weekend—we’ve been waiting for you all week! We all know what that means… time to adjust your belt buckle and get your knife and fork at the ready. We’re going to brunch! 

The countdown to the weekend is officially on. We all know what that means: time to get brunching! If you’re anything like us, one of your weekend faves is the wonderful waffle. 

If there’s anyone who deserves a holiday, it’s you. But there’s no need to jet off to faraway lands for va-cay vibes. Nope, your perfect holiday is closer than you think.

The weekend is so close we can almost taste it—literally. Chances are you’re ready to devour some perfect poachies drowned in hollandaise sauce. Yep, we’re talking about everyone’s much-loved eggs benedict. 

Last night was one of those nights when you come home and declare “that was the best night ever!”. Why so? Because we were busy eating (and drinking!) our way around Auckland’s pop-up of the year.

Summer is here (wellllll, almost).

You spend more than 35 per cent of your time working. That’s a massive chunk of your life. It would be crazy to spend all that time in a job that simply pays the bills. 

Asian fusion is taking over Auckland and we can’t get enough of the deliciousness. Crispy roti, moreish dumplings and slurp-worthy curries… we want it all and we want it now.

Auckland, we need to talk. Big is NOT better when it comes to brows. The big, bold brow trend has gone too far—your brows shouldn’t enter the room before you. 

“I hate Italian food,” said no one ever. The Italians have made the world a better (and tastier) place with everything from pasta and gnocchi to gelato and Prosecco. Mamma mia—get in our belly!

Adulting is one tough gig. You quickly realise the rubbish doesn’t take itself out, laundry doesn’t wash itself and—shock horror—dinner doesn’t *actually* cook itself. 

New restaurants are popping up left, right and centre in the City of Sails. And, while we’re all for trying new things, sometimes you just can’t go wrong with a classic.

Stop with the Netflix and *chill* dates, guys. We know it’s cold but that’s no excuse to get lazy with your dates. 

The Italians have really outdone themselves when it comes to introducing the world to all sorts of deliciousness. Gelato, pizza, espresso and pasta, glorious pasta!

Winter is well and truly in full swing. While Netflix marathons and copious hot chocolates bring comfort, what we really want need is an island getaway—asap. 

There’s nothing quite like a good ol’ jog to work up a sweat, release some endorphins, and get rid of built-up stress. Is there anything a run can’t fix? Nope, probably not. 

So, if you’re anything like us, you’re all about putting the best things in your body (aka three-cheese fettuccine). But what about when it comes to what goes on your skin?

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are cool and stuff, but dessert is where the real magic happens. While some people wave away the menu after mains, we’ve chosen our happy ending before the meal’s even begun—priorities, right?

So, things are getting pretty serious between you and your new boyfriend/girlfriend. You’ve met their flatmates, you’ve met their friends. Heck, you’ve even shared a cocktail with their colleagues. It’s now time for the introduction of all introductions… meeting the parents. Yikes. 

Auckland has really upped its game in the cafe scene as of late. Of course, none of this would be possible if it weren’t for the baristas, chefs and wait staff hustling day in, day out—and we love ‘em for it! 

Forget the upcoming parliament election, there’s a more pressing election you need to know about: The Big Burgerlection.

Loosen your belt buckle, tuck in your napkin and get your knife and fork at the ready. Auckland just got a whole lot tastier and you’re going to want to eat it ALL.

Get prepped for weekly binge session in your PJ’s, guys, because Twin Peaks is back!

Gone are the days of being a white or red wine-drinker…it’s all about blue (yes, BLUE) wine!

​While we love each and every suburb in Auckland, there are some that we hold close to our hearts. We’re talking about the ‘burbs jam-packed with local businesses doing cool things. 

Oh, how the world loves fitness trackers. The oh-so popular tool is praised for knowing how on track your life is. Are you moving enough? Getting enough sleep? Fitness-ing enough? If not, what are you even doing with your time?

Life in New Zealand ain’t all that bad. However, we have to admit, we do, on occasion, get jealous of those living it up in Europe.

Let’s be honest, Mother Nature is one amazing lady. She’s the mastermind behind some of life’s finest things: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, forests…the list goes on. 

​With the weekend quickly approaching, we’re crossing our fingers for sweet swells and dreamy offshore winds—the perfect excuse to make a beeline for the beach, surf board tucked firmly under our arm.

​If you’re having a bad day, it’s about to get feta—we’ve got some grate news!

Something magical happens when the Italian aperitif Aperol is mixed with soda water and prosecco. It’s like a little explosion of summer in your mouth.

2017 was going to be YOUR year, wasn’t it? You were going to channel you inner Wonder Woman to run a marathon, squat 100kgs (goals) and conquer a forearm stand in yoga.

​You set yourself a New Year’s resolution to get fighting fit, didn’t you? How’s that working for you? All too often, life gets in the way and you find yourself running around like a headless chicken with no time to pick up those dumbbells—don’t worry, we understand.

If cocktails with city views sounds like your jam this summer (um, yes!), then we have news for you! It’s time to get excited because The Deck at Ostro has been transformed into an Aperol Spritz garden for one month only.

New year new you, huh? This year you’re going to run a marathon, master that pull-up and bench more than The Rock (you’ve so totally got this). 

​There’s no denying us Aucklanders love our rosé. Whether it’s frozen, blended in a cocktail or just as is, we can’t get enough of the pink delight.

​Summer is officially hereee. Hello beach road trips, long evenings and excessive consumption of ice cream (the best part). If you thought the only way to have a good time was to leave Auckland, think again! 

Ain’t nothing better than street food. Noodles, skewers and dumplings—we want it and we want it all!