Monthly Archives

January 2020

Inventive Ways to Cool Off in Auckland this Summer

By | Activities, day trips, walks | No Comments

Auckland is famous for its summers, you can’t beat the long days, the luscious greenery and the beautiful feeling of wearing light clothing. But Summer in the city of sails doesn’t come without that famous dry heat that sticks around all summer long. So if you’re feeling like your sticking to everything, or melting away and need some quick remedies that are local and creative, then this is the list for you!

Bethells & Pākiri Beach

Obviously, this list is going to have a couple of our favorite beaches, it could be argued that Auckland has some of the best beaches in the country, and they’d be right.

For those who are looking for a little peace and quiet as they dip and cool off in the surrounding waters look no further than Bethell’s. Less than an hour’s drive from the city, Bethell’s Beach is the place to get some much need relaxing in as you cool off as it’s more sheltered and tucked away than many other surrounding beaches.

While we are on the topic of quiet beaches, Pākiri Beach is just that and is the perfect place for a wee escape from the city life of Auckland. The isolation makes it an idyllic and peaceful place when looking for some downtime. Pākiri Beach doesn’t allow amplified music and sometimes, silence is the only thing you need to get away and cool off!

Ollies Burgers & Ice Cream

Nothing screams summer like a classic ice cream parlor, and Ollies encapsulates every essence of the word. The retro fit-out features everything you’d expect, including chequered floors, arcade games, and a shiny red countertop, Its features the New Zealand staple of summer ice creams, Tip Top, we’re talking hokey pokey, orange chocolate chip, good- goody gumdrops, gold rush and all the other fabulous flavors this iconic Kiwi brand has introduced to us over the years. Alternatively, order yourself one of the eatery’s super-nostalgic banana splits, complete with all the trimmings.

Take a Stroll, or Relax Under Native Trees

 Sometimes just sitting under a tree and reading a book is just what the doctor ordered on a hot summer’s day. If you want to get some shade, take in the view of some magnificent native trees and maybe learn a thing or two along the way, then you can’t beat the beautiful Parry Kauri Park. Take an easy stroll along one of the well-made boardwalks, through the native bush, to the lookout and kauri tree grove. Pick up a brochure from the Museum souvenir shop that describes and identifies the native trees and shrubs found along the path.

What’s On in Auckland January 2020

By | Activities, food & Drink, Nightlife | No Comments

After months of waiting it seems like are finally fully submerged in summer weather, the season the city comes alive! If your New Years’ resolution was to get out and do more than boy do we have the list to help you!

Here’s what’s on this January in Auckland:

2020 ASB Classic

Don your best whites, as the iconic summer sports tournament, the ASB Classic (New Zealand’s premier tennis tournament), returns! With some of the biggest names in international tennis set to take centre court, including the one and only Serena Williams—it’s one not to be missed! As well as kicking back and watching the game, you can indulge in the highest quality cuisine, made by some top-notch chefs!

Fat Freddy’s Drop

Quite possibly the kings of kiwi summer music, Fat Freddys are the dub, reggae seven-piece who don’t quit and are unmissable; live! Luckily for us the band are hitting the road this summer with their NZ Summer Record tour. This year gets a super-charged tune-up with the addition of some epic tour buddies— DJ David Rodigan, L.A.B, Avantdale Bowling Club, JessB, Chaii & Bailey Wiley. Its an incredible line up of local talent, and this one heading to Western Springs, it literally is where summer is at.

Exquisite Waiheke Pool Party

If the name doesn’t sell you alone, let me lay out the pitch: iconic Auckland landmass Waiheke, partying on a private resort minutes away from a golden sand beach, complete with pool, spa, a minigolf course, bar, and restaurant. With DJs to keep you partying long into the night, this is a pool party to end all pool parties and will cement your summer for sure!

SIlo Cinemas

No Auckland summer is complete without heading to an outdoor movie, eating snacks and cuddling up with someone you care about and watching a good flick in the fresh summer air! The Silo Cinemas are back this year with a fantastic lineup of films that make for a great date or something to take the whole family to.

Laneway Festival New Zealand

The crown Jem of Auckland summer festivals, Laneway is back in 2020 and closing off the first month of 2020 with a day of music, food and dancing that you’ll likely never forget. Some of the world’s most critically-acclaimed acts will be joining in the fun at Laneway Festival, party it up with the likes of English pop-rock band The 1975, Aussie alternative dance group RÜFÜS DU SOL and pop princess Charli XCX.