BNZ Lantern Festival

From open-air opera to unmissable exhibitions, our February Culture Guide has everything to book this month

Words Sjaan Askwith | 31 Jan 2025

As is always the case, summer is proving to be the busiest season on the social calendar, packed with a raft of exceptional cultural events to keep you occupied. From a series of international touring artists to uproarious comedy shows, myriad festivals and exhibitions, and this year’s jam-packed Auckland Pride month, we’ve rounded up the must not miss events of the season.

Opera in the Park

When & Where: Saturday 1st February, Auckland Botanic Gardens, Manurewa

Celebrate summer in Tāmaki Makaurau with the second and final enchanting performance of opera open-air. Part of Auckland Council’s Music in Parks series, this free event features acclaimed Aotearoa talent, breathtaking music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Bring a picnic and revel in the magic of live performance.

Final Curator’s Tour — Modern Women: Flight of Time

When & Where: Sunday 23rd February, 3—4pm, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Celebrate the final day of Modern Women: Flight of Time with a special curator-led tour by Julia Waite. Discover how the exhibition’s creation and visitor engagement have shaped her insights into the artworks and themes, highlighting the overlooked contributions of pioneering women artists. This free event offers a unique chance to explore the journey behind this remarkable showcase — registration is recommended.

BNZ Lantern Festival

When & Where: Thursday 13th — Sunday 16th February, Manukau Sports Bowl

The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is set to light up the Manukau Sports Bowl this February to mark the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Snake. This free-ticketed event features 500+ spectacular handmade lanterns, a series of cultural performances, an outdoor cinema screen showcasing familiar favourites, and mouthwatering street food. With free Auckland Transport access included, it’s easier than ever to enjoy one of Auckland’s favourite cultural celebrations.

Auckland Shakespeare in the Park

When & Where: Saturday 15th February, PumpHouse Theatre

Experience the magic of Shakespeare this summer as Richard III graces the stage at The PumpHouse Theatre. With outdoor evening performances and indoor matinees, this family-friendly event promises captivating storytelling, dynamic local talent, and unforgettable moments. Children 12 and under attend free — perfect for a memorable summer night out.

Huseyin Sami: Rhythm & Cuts at Sumer Gallery

When & Where: Thursday 31st January — Saturday 1 March 2025, Sumer Fine Art

Sumer Gallery presents Rhythm & Cuts, the first Aotearoa solo exhibition by Sydney-based artist Huseyin Sami. Known for his playful approach to abstraction, Sami’s ‘cut’ paintings merge modernist influences with vibrant spontaneity. His signature sliced canvases, echoing Lucio Fontana, create layered, almost whimsical forms that dance between structure and fluidity. On view until March 1st, this exhibition is a must-see for contemporary art enthusiasts.

Auckland Gin Festival

When & Where: Friday 31st January — Sunday 2nd February, The Cloud

Sip, savour, and discover at Auckland’s ultimate gin celebration. Showcasing craft distillers from New Zealand and Australia, this tasting experience includes unlimited gin samples (across a 3.5 hour period), masterclasses, and exclusive take-home treats. With food trucks, expert insights, and premium spirits galore, it’s the tastiest ticket in town for gin lovers.

Auckland Pride

When & Where: Saturday 1st February — Saturday 1st March, Auckland-wide

Celebrate connection and community at Auckland Pride 2025. With over 60 events across Tāmaki Makaurau, the festival embraces the theme Tētahi Ki Tētahi — ‘one to another and each other’, which honours the powerful truth that ‘we exist because we relate. Highlights including the vibrant opening at Seasons Gallery, powerful performances at Pride Elevates, the unmissable Big Gay Out, and the reimagined Waimahara closing event, uniting art, advocacy, and shared vision for liberation.

Tyler Childers

When & Where: Thursday 6th February, Spark Arena

Grammy-nominated country artist Tyler Childers is bringing his sell-out Mule Pull ‘24 Tour to Auckland this summer, for a single, unmissable show. Known for his stirring performances and soulful songwriting, Childers’ show will feature hits from his acclaimed album — Rustin’ In The Rain, in a transportive experience.

Moana Auckland

When & Where: Monday 24th February — Monday 24th March, Auckland-wide

New Zealand’s ocean festival is set to make waves this summer, bringing together on and off-water events that highlight our love affair with the ocean, with over 30 events taking place throughout the month-long event.

Sarah Millican

When & Where: Saturday 1st — Tuesday 4th February, Kiri Te Kawana Theatre

From a shy, friendless teen to a confident, goose-booing comedian, Sarah Millican’s Late Bloomer explores the observational British comic’s journey with her signature wit. Expect hilarious musings on dinners, lady gardens, and life’s quirks. Laugh with, at, or beside her in this unmissable new stand-up show from one of comedy’s sharpest voices.

Laneway Festival

When & Where: Thursday 6th February, Western Springs

With a reputation for having its finger on the global pulse, Laneway is back with a bang, with a lineup that is nothing short of extraordinary. Back with a stacked lineup including brat summer star Charli XCX, Beabadoobee, Clairo, BICEP who present their new AJ/DJ show Chroma, Barry Can’t Swim, Remi Wolf, Olivia Dean and many more, alongside an array of emerging talent, this is one summer event you won’t want to miss.

Flamingo Pier

When & Where: Saturday 8th February, Ahipao, Waiheke Island

Flamingo Pier is marking a decade of unforgettable dancefloor magic on Waiheke Island this summer. On February 8th, celebrate with a day-to-night party at Ahipao featuring global legends Sadar Bahar, Kamma, and Make A Dance, plus an incredible local lineup. Two dancefloors, timeless grooves, and island vibes — this is set to be a party for the ages.

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The Ayrburn Classic is set to be the event of the season

Words Sjaan Askwith | 31 Jan 2025

Mark your calendars for a weekend of unparalleled luxury, motoring excellence, and sophisticated entertainment at the inaugural Ayrburn Classic, debuting from 21st—23rd March. Set against the breathtaking beauty of Ayrburn’s historic estate on the outskirts of Queenstown, the festival is poised to become one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most prestigious motoring events.

This exceptional celebration will bring together over 200 stunning vehicles — from vintage treasures to iconic classics and cutting-edge supercars — spanning nine feature classes. For motoring aficionados, highlights include the Showcase on the Dell, where the finest vehicles will parade before being presented on stage. Test drives on the scenic roads of Central Otago offer attendees the chance to experience the thrill of driving a luxury car.

But the Ayrburn Classic caters to more than just car enthusiasts. Award-winning wine tastings, gourmet dining from Ayrburn’s acclaimed culinary team, live music, and exclusive VIP lounges and more are on offer across the event. Headlining the entertainment is internationally-renowned country singer-songwriter (and car enthusiast) Miranda Easten, whose performance will add a unique vibrancy to the Saturday festivities.

Inspired by the heritage of Kiwi motoring pioneers, the festival will also feature tributes to New Zealand’s contributions to automotive innovation. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of classic cars, fine dining, or simply the opportunity to soak in Ayrburn’s stunning surroundings, this is an event not to be missed.

Tickets are now available at ayrburnclassic.com — secure your place at this unforgettable celebration.

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Swarovski has unveiled the Ariana Grande Capsule Collection — a dazzling celebration of self-expression

Words Sjaan Askwith | 29 Jan 2025

Swarovski has unveiled its first collaboration with global brand ambassador Ariana Grande, marking a new chapter in luxury jewellery. The Ariana Grande x Swarovski Capsule Collection, co-designed with Swarovski’s Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert, celebrates self-expression through the universal language of music. Inspired by musical notes and the transcendent power of love, the collection brings together Grande’s radiant spirit and Swarovski’s signature extravagant elegance.

The 16-piece edit showcases Swarovski’s renowned craftsmanship, featuring bracelets and earrings fashioned from flowing crystals, a whimsical tiara, and a striking heart pendant. Crafted with impeccable detail, each piece embodies modern sophistication with the Maison’s ever-timeless appeal.

“Working with Ariana has been a dream,” shared Giovanna Engelbert. “Her artistic energy deeply inspired our creative journey, leading us to a collection that celebrates contemporary glamour through classic elegance and a touch of modernity.” She continues, “My vision was to merge Swarovski’s heritage of craftsmanship with Ariana’s vibrant spirit, creating a collection that resonates with lovers of music and elegance worldwide.”

Ariana Grande added, “I’m thrilled to continue my creative journey with Swarovski by bringing my love for music and self-expression to this shining jewellery collection, co-designed with Giovanna. I can’t wait for everyone to discover their unique sparkle and enjoy these beautiful pieces as much as I do.”

The collection is enlivened by a campaign lensed in black and white by legendary fashion photographers Mert and Marcus, in which Grande exudes old Hollywood glamour and charm. Launching yesterday, the edit is set to debut at exclusive pop-ups in luxury locales across the world, from Harrods to Galeries Lafayette, and Mall of the Emirates, alongside activations in New York, Tokyo, and Milan.

swarovski.com

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Does Joico’s K-Pak range live up to the hype? Our Editor finds out

Words Sjaan Askwith | 29 Jan 2025

Honestly, haircare has never been my forte. As someone with very, very thick hair, I’ve always been more of a wash, air-dry, and call it a day kind of girl. But, following the birth of my daughter, my once well-behaved, low maintenance hair became anything but.

In the space of a few months, my locks became frizzy and coarse, and the dreaded postpartum hair loss hangover that is mini fringes and flyaways came into full effect. Short on time and with personal maintenance low on the agenda, I booked into my hairdresser and lopped half of it off, making promises to overhaul my haircare routine when I had time. Something I’d failed to act on until now.

After decades of colouring my hair blonde, I needed a heavy hitter to repair years of damage and protect against future breakages — something which iconic haircare brand Joico’s extensive range promised to deliver on implicitly. I took Joico’s online ‘healthy hair quiz‘ to uncover which range best suited my tresses, and quickly (and accurately) was able to identify the best products for my specific areas of concern. For my thick, dry, dull, and damaged hair, Joico’s K-Pak range was apparently my perfect match.

Editor, Sjaan’s hair before (left) and after (right) one use of Joico’s K-Pak Reconstructing Shampoo and Reconstructor

Powered by Joico’s SmartRelease liposome technology that promises to repair, strengthen, and protect hair where it needs it, the innovative K-Pak collection helps to repair years of visible damage and fight future breakage at the same time. According to the brand, with just one use, distressed tresses are rescued and restored to their shining, healthy-looking former glory, and, while I may not have seen an instant transformation to Rosie Huntington-Whitely-level sleekness and shine, I can honestly say I saw a change to the overall look and feel of my hair with just one use.

Beyond being impressively efficacious, there is a luxurious vibe to the K-Pak range which made washing my hair, which I’ve always considered an admin task and approached reluctantly, a feel-good ritual. The beautiful scent helped, combined with the lush, creamy textures of each of the products, which just feel like they work.

The first step is the Reconstructing Shampoo, formulated with damage-seeking Keratin and protective Guajava Fruit Extract which combine to help to fortify weak strands and prevent future damage when used in conjunction with a K-Pak conditioning product.

Having been a long-time fan of Joico’s leave-in treatments, I opted for the K-Pak Reconstructor which has been dubbed the “holy grail” hair hero — and is the product that started it all for Joico fifty years ago. Packed with a powerful combo of amino acids and Joico’s smart Keratin technology, this five-minute treatment rebuilds and strengthens stressed strands to instantly restore hair to its healthy best. Used by millions of stylists the world-round, I instantly discovered why this product has earned cult status amongst those in the know. Not only did it instantly nourish and hydrate my hair, but I noticed it was far more manageable when combing and drying, and was left with a subtle sheen that my lacklustre hair had long-been missing.

As Joico celebrates 50 years of delivering high-performance, efficacious, and innovative haircare products, it’s easy to see why this is a brand that has endured for decades, and only continued to rise in popularity through time and trend cycles. Consider me a convert.

Beyond hair repair for damaged locks like mine, Joico has ranges bespoke to every hair concern, from the protectant Defy Damage range to the ultra-hydrating HydraSplash range to the Colourful Collection range, specifically-crafted to keep you true to your hue. To find your perfect match, take the healthy hair quiz, and begin your journey towards healthy, revitalised locks.

joico.com.au

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Denizen Dining Agenda: Where to go and what to eat this week

Words Sjaan Askwith | 29 Jan 2025

As always, there are a number of tasty happenings to have on your radar this week and beyond. From special menus to epic events, and the new menu items you simple must try, we round up five things to add to your dining agenda right now.

Secure your spot at the Paris Butter x Bar Teresa event

On January 31st, experience a one-night-only collaboration with Teresa, Hawke’s Bay’s renowned cocktail haven, and Herne Bay stalwart Paris Butter. Delight in four courses and snacks paired with handcrafted cocktails, expertly brought together by the talented teams from both venues. Immerse yourself in sustainable, locally inspired flavours, and an evening of culinary artistry. Tickets are $250 per person — secure your place for this unforgettable event here.

Make for Beabea’s and try the loaf everyone is talking about

Westmere go-to, Beabea’s, only opened it’s doors last year but has already solidified itself as one of the city’s most-loved bakeries (lest we forget Ben & Sarah took out the top spot in Denizen’s annual hot cross bun competition in 2024). A fact that makes their newest special all the more exciting. For a limited time only, and only available on Saturdays, Beabea’s has added a tasty Fruit Loaf to the mix, brimming with figs, apricots, sultanas and currants. Pair a thick slice with some cold butter and a cup of their expertly-prepared coffee, and you have yourself one hell of a weekend breakfast.

Partake in SkyCity’s Lunar New Year festivities

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Auckland’s finest Lunar New Year dining experiences. From Huami’s traditional sharing menus to Metita’s Pacific-inspired tasting menu, and Masu’s exclusive Tokyo platter, SkyCity’s top restaurants are embracing the festive spirit. The precinct is also running vibrant street food markets on Fridays and Saturdays for a limited time — inspiring Aucklanders to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Snake with unforgettable flavours, festivities, and fun for the whole family.

Treat yourself to Gloria’s new slice for lunch

White peach, bacon, honey, chilli and basil combine to stunning effect on Gloria’s tasty new slice, available at the Commercial Bay-based deli from this week. Gloria’s pizza al taglio — expertly crafted by chef Nick Landsman and his team who place a huge amount of emphasis on quality, flies out of the cabinet come lunchtime, so moreish and satisfying are the inventive yet approachable flavour combinations. This new iteration — part of the eatery’s menu refresh, is one of Landman’s tastiest takes yet, and well worth adding to your lunchtime agenda this week.

End the week on a high note with Somm’s Sunday Socials

Unwind in style at Somm’s Sunday Socials, every Sunday from 2–7pm at Princes Wharf. Enjoy waterfront views, curated cocktails, and DJ Spence’s mellow tunes, all while indulging in fresh and tasty share plates. With its laid-back vibe and seasonal menu, Somm Wine Bar & Bistro is the perfect spot to end your week in relaxingly low-key fashion.

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Lunar New Year: Here’s everything you need to know about the Year of the Snake

Words Sjaan Askwith | 29 Jan 2025

Today, January 29th, marks the first day of the Lunar New Year 2025, also known as Chinese New Year. Bidding farewell to the Year of the Dragon, we are now ushering in the Year of the Snake in a cultural event celebrated by over 1.5 billion people annually, for up to 15 days. Here, we share everything you need to know about Lunar New Year, and the Year of the Snake.

Lunar New Year is the most important event on the Chinese cultural calendar, and is celebrated by most Asian countries as well as those with large Asian communities. Also known in China as the Spring Festival, this year it spans January 29th 2025 to February 15th 2026, when Year of the Horse will begin. It is guided by the lunisolar Chinese calendar, meaning the date changes every year.

Each new year is characterised by a different zodiac animal, of which there are 12 — similar to the Western zodiac, except the latter changes every month. This year is the Year of the Snake (or the Wood Snake, specifically), known as a resilient and wise animal in the Chinese zodiac. Each person has a zodiac animal that corresponds with the year they were born. This year, that’s people born in 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013.

The Snake, in Chinese culture, symbolises wisdom, intuition and mystery. It is also associated with charm, elegance, and transformation. People born in the Year of the Snake are thought to be mysterious, charismatic, intuitive, calm, strategic, positive, wise, determined, intelligent, goal-oriented, responsible and graceful.

Ways to mark the occasion vary across different cultures, but in Chinese culture it’s very common for elders to give younger family members money in lucky red envelopes, and red lanterns and decorations are usually put up. Spring cleaning to step into the new year clean and fresh is widespread the day before celebrations begin, however it’s taboo to sweep or clean on the first day of Lunar New Year.

In New Zealand, there are country-wide celebrations to ring in the occasion. In Auckland, the annual Auckland Lantern Festival is occurring this year from the 13th — 16th of February. Presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited on behalf of Auckland Council, the festival boasts four days of festivities, with delicious food stalls and stage performances, plenty of family-friendly activities, an outdoor cinema screen, and of course many beautiful lanterns on display (over 500, to be exact). This year, the event is free-ticketed (for capacity management purposes), so be sure to book your free tickets online. There’s also free transport to and from the festival for all ticket holders.

In the city — on Federal Street, SkyCity will be hosting a range of festivities, including night market food stalls running from now until February 1st between 3—9pm, and special menus and dishes at many of the precinct’s most loved eateries.

For thoughtful gifts, a host of brands have curated or released special collections celebrating the Year of the Snake — from Tiffany & Co. to Gucci to Bulgari and more. Shop the collections here.

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Meet Coffee AFC — Auckland’s new community-driven cafe serving speciality coffee & tasty baked goods

Words Sjaan Askwith | 24 Jan 2025

Auckland FC has unveiled Coffee AFC — an inviting new cafe on College Hill designed to bring people together over great coffee and the spirit of community.

Launched as an inclusive space where fans, families, friends, and locals can connect beyond match days, Coffee AFC blends the spirited energy of Auckland FC with the warmth of a neighbourhood cafe. Offering accessible, $5.50 lattes — made using expertly-prepared Allpress coffee, alongside a selection of Daily Bread pastries and doughnuts, this laid-back new spot is the perfect drop-in for those working or living nearby.

The space itself is minimalist and sleekly designed, rendered entirely in white with a stainless steel counter and AFC’s royal blue peppered throughout. Auckland FC fans will also find AFC fixtures, exclusive merchandise, and photographic artwork celebrating the spirit of both the club and the city’s vibrancy.

Whether stopping by for a quick coffee or soaking up the relaxed atmosphere over a tasty bite and a chat with a like-minded local, Coffee AFC offers a uniquely community-minded experience.

“Auckland FC is about being more than just a football club. We are a community that represents the whole city,” shares Ali Williams, local owner of Auckland FC. “Coffee AFC will help us to continue to create that sense of belonging for Auckland. It is why we are selling coffee at low prices; we want to bring people together. It’s just one of the many ways we aim to be a true community club, a place for fans, locals, and visitors to come together.”

Located at the base of College Hill, Coffee AFC is open weekdays from 7.30am, and offers a perfect drop-in any time of day. Come for the coffee, stay for the camaraderie, and be part of Auckland FC’s growing story — on and off the pitch.

Opening hours:
Monday — Friday, 7:30am until 2pm

instagram.com/coffeeafc

Coffee AFC

25 College Hill
Freemans Bay
Auckland

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Mark the Lunar New Year by indulging in this exclusive menu at one of the city’s tastiest eateries

Words Sjaan Askwith | 24 Jan 2025

Celebrate the Lunar New Year in sumptuous style at Jervois Steak House, where an exclusive menu has been thoughtfully curated to mark the beginning of the Year of the Snake. Running from January 29th to February 1st, this culinary experience blends the best local cuts and produce with the celebratory essence of the Chinese new year — expertly brought together by Jervois Steakhouse’s renowned chefs.

Begin your evening with a dozen natural, fresh oysters — a crisp and refreshing nod to the bounty of the sea, accompanied by a zesty shallot vinaigrette. For the mains, diners are treated to the unparalleled quality of New Zealand’s coastal lamb rack or grain-fed Lake Ohau scotch — a Central Otago treasure, aged for 200 days to ensure unmatched tenderness and flavour. Or, if you’re keen to go all out, opt for the Zen-Noh A5 wagyu sirloin from Miyazaki, Japan — a symphony of flavour that epitomises indulgence.

Pair your selections with sauces like the umami-rich XO or the velvety porcini butter, and complement the experience with expertly prepared sides such as JSH’s iconic creamed spinach or seasonal green veg.

At $130 per guest (minimum two) for a two-course meal and sides, this is an occasion to gather, celebrate, and toast to good fortune and the promise of a fresh new year on the horizon. Reserve your table here.

jervoissteakhouse.co.nz

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Skin craving some post-holiday TLC? We’ve found three facials to get you glowing again

Words Sjaan Askwith | 14 Jan 2025

While we’ve all just had a wonderful summer break, the effects of sun, saltwater, sand, sunscreen, makeup and other happy hallmarks of holidays well-spent can wreak havoc on the skin. This means that now is the perfect time to book in with an expert to ensure that your skin is looking ship shape for the year ahead.

Here, we round up three Denizen-approved facials to give your skin some of the post-holiday care it deserves.

Rae Face — Face Sculpting

Stepping into Rae’s space feels like stepping into a dreamstate, and her signature Face Scultping facial, which leaves your skin feeling all kinds of taught and lifted, feels like the ultimate act of self-care. This non-invasive and holistic facial massage uses techniques to improve blood circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage, as Rae works on the facial muscles outside and inside the mouth (including buccal massage) to relax and release tension. The resulting treatment helps to balance and strengthen the facial posture as well as your nervous system for a naturally radiat result.

The Facialist — The Super Facial

The Facialist has long-been a go-to for Aucklanders looking to give their skin some much-needed TLC, and for good reason. The destination’s highest performing treatment is The Super Facial — which combines all of their most advanced treatment modalities and most effective products into one targeted, all-encompassing, super effective facial. Expect the likes of LED, Microcurrent, Radiofrequency, Hydro-enzyme, and a Hydrojelly mask, with the 60-minute option combining two modalities, and the 90-minute option combining three — with combinations recommended by The Facialist’s trusted experts.

Spring Spa — Codage Hydration Facial

If you’re seeking hydration, then Codage’s Ultimate Hydration Facial should be your first port of call. Thanks to Spring Spa’s beautiful experience, the facial is both relaxing and powerful — a combination that makes for the perfect encounter. Using Codage’s incredible range, complete with an enzyme peel, this facial regenerates and moisturises skin, boosting vitality and supporting your year-round glow.

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These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know

Words Sjaan Askwith | 17 Dec 2024

The holidays are here, which means a well-deserved break for all of us — including those in the hospitality industry. Fortunately, there are a handful of establishments keeping their doors open over the break, so if you do find yourself wondering where you can go for a bite out in Auckland, these are the places to visit.

Bivacco Bar & Grill

From its delicious food to its sprawling space, Bivacco has found fast popularity with discerning Auckland diners — and for good reason. Thankfully, this summer, Bivacco Bar & Grill will open every day except for Christmas Day. And with plenty of long, summer afternoons on the horizon, we recommend booking a table in advance — especially if you’ve managed to rustle up a crowd for a convivial lunch in the new year. (Although there’s usually always room to squeeze in at the bar.)

Andiamo

Luckily, for anyone hanging around over the break, Andiamo has generously decided to keep its doors open for most of the holidays, aside from the 25th and the 26th of December, and the 1st and 2nd of January. Any other day, you can stop in for some of its delectable Italian-style fare and perhaps nab one of the sought-after street-side tables.

Somm Wine Bar & Bistro

Somm is shutting its doors from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day, opening up again between 27th — 31st December for those staying in the city and looking for a perfect spot to enjoy a festive tipple and a celebratory afternoon in the sun, before taking a break during the 1st and 2nd of January.

Soul Bar & Bistro

Aside from Christmas Day, Soul Bar & Bistro’s hours are remaining more-or-less normal. Despite being closed for Christmas Day, Soul is back open on Boxing Day, with the bar open from 11am and DJs kicking off from 2pm, set to play through to the wee hours to keep the festive spirit going. Soul will also close on New Year’s Day, to give its team some much-needed R&R. Might we suggest you do that too?

Metita

Michael Meredith’s impeccable restaurant serving elevated Pacific fare is keeping its doors open throughout the break. With a special Christmas offering available on the day itself, a New Year’s Eve menu, and their usual fare and delightful drinks available throughout the festive period, Metita will be a lively spot to spend a long lunch or convivial dinner over the break.

Commercial Bay Eateries

All of Commercial Bay’s wonderful eateries are staying open for the entirety of the break, only shutting down for Christmas Day, meaning you’ll be able to dine at the likes of Advieh, Ahi, Origine, Gochu, The Lodge Bar, Gemmi and more all summer long.

Amano

Securing a table at Amano is not typically an easy task, so while most people are out of town, use this time as an opportunity to dine at this widely-loved, modern Italian restaurant. Amano will only be closed on Christmas Day, before returning to its regular hours for the rest of 2024 and into the new year.

Bar Magda

We’re never short of reasons to visit Bar Magda — from their delicious fare and inventive cocktails to the aperitivo hour and more, and we’ll be heading in over the summer (likely for all of the above) and suggest you do, too. They’re shutting up shop for a much-deserved break on the 21st of December, and opening their doors again mid-January.

Jervois Steakhouse

The carnivorous amongst us will be delighted to find that Jervois Steakhouse is open for most of the holidays, only shutting its doors between the 25th and 27th of December, then again on January 1st and 2nd. Visit the Herne Bay stalwart at any other time and it’ll be business as usual.

Park Hyatt Auckland

Dine in at Park Hyatt’s Onemata and Living Room eateries right through the holidays, with only slight changes to their usual scheduling. The Living Room will suspend its high tea service on the 26th and the 27th of December, otherwise, you can book as usual, as Park Hyatt is open on both the 1st and 2nd of January and beyond.

Non Solo Pizza

Our go-to Parnell institution Non Solo Pizza will still be serving its delectable Italian fare and (importantly, given the timing) pouring all manner of lively libations across the festive period, only shutting up shop on the official public holidays to give their lovely staff a much-deserved break.

Kingi

The Hotel Britomart’s flagship restaurant is welcoming patrons most days over the holidays, including Christmas Day (find details for its Christmas lunch here) and New Year’s Eve (find here). For those seeking a much-needed staycation, we happen to think The Hotel Britomart’s adjacent dining offering is perfect.

QT Hotel

The QT Hotel’s Mediterranean must-visit, Esther, is open right through the holidays and is also offering a delicious New Year’s feasting menu — find details here — on the 31st of December. The Rooftop at QT is also putting on a fun New Year’s Eve party not to be missed.

MoVida

With a beautiful, elevated outlook, and inspired cuisine unlike anywhere else in the City, MoVida is one destination you’ll find us at often this summer. Service here will be taking a momentary pause this year, with the kitchen closing from the 25th of December until the until the 18th of January, before reopening its doors for plenty of convivial celebrations.

Hello Beasty

If you’re making the most of a sunny day in Auckland with a stroll around Viaduct Harbour, why not stop in at Hello Beasty? The flavoursome fusion restaurant will be closed from the 24th of December until the 4th of January at 12pm — just in time for a delicious long lunch to mark your return to the office.

Saint Alice

Another Viaduct Harbour mainstay, Saint Alice has even more days open on its calendar, this year offering both a Christmas Day lunch and a New Year’s Eve party, only closing its doors for a short reprieve on Boxing Day. A festive lunch up high above the water, with some of the best food in town? Sounds like a great way to mark a special occasion if you ask us.

Other holiday hours worth noting:

A — B

Advieh: Open throughout.

Ahi: Closed 25th December, open from 5pm 26th December, 1st – 2nd January.

Alma: Closed 24th — 26th December & 1st — 2nd January.

Ayrburn: Closed 25th December.

Azabu Ponsonby: Closed 25th December — 15th January.

Azabu Mission Bay: Closed 25th & 26th December.

Bar Non Solo: Closed 25th — 18th January.

Beau & Beau Deli: Closed 22nd December — 3rd January.

Bodega: Closed 22nd December — 4th January.

Bowler: Closed 25th – 26th December & 1st — 2nd January.

C — D

Candela: Closed 22nd December — 14th January.

Cassia: Closed on 25th December, 29th December, 1st January & 5th January.

The College Hill Wine Room: Closed 25th — 26th December and 1st — 2nd January.

Daily Bread: Ponsonby, Point Chev, Britomart, Belmont, Newmarket, New Lynn — Closed 25th — 26th December & 1st — 2nd January. Federal St — Closed 25th December and open from 8th January.

Depot: Closed 25th & 26th December, open from 12pm 27th, closed 1st — 3rd January, open from 3pm 4th, open from 11.30am 6th — 10th January.

Duo: Closed 23rd December — 3rd January.

Dr Rudi: Closed 25th December.

E — H

Ebisu: Closed 25th & 26th December.

Farina: 23rd & 24th December, open 12pm – Late, closed 25th & 26th December, 30th December & Tuesday 31st December, open 5pm — late, closed 1st & 2nd January

First Mates, Last Laugh: Closed 25th December.

Gilt: Closed 25th — 26th December, open from 5pm on the 27th December, 11.30am — late 28th-31st December and closed 1st — 5th January.

Honey Bones: Closed 23rd December — 7th January.

Hotel Ponsonby: Closed 24th December — 4th January. Reopening from the 5th, 12pm — late daily.

Huami: Closed 23rd — 24th & 30th December.

I — O

Kol: Closed 23rd December — 8th January.

Kome: Closed 25th December.

Knead on Benson: Open throughout. 6.30am — 12pm on Christmas Day.

Lilian: Closed 24th December — 12th January.

Masu: Closed 26th December.

Mr Morris: Closed 22nd — 26th December. Closed 1st — 21st January.

Nami: Closed 23rd December — 8th January.

Norma Taps: Closed 21st December — 8th January.

Olle: Closed 23rd – 26th December and from 30th December — 2nd January.

Onslow: Closed 25th-26th December, open from 5pm 27th — 28th December, open 12pm-5pm 29th December, open from 5pm 30th — 31st December, closed 1st — 2nd January, open from 5pm 3rd — 4th January.

Orbit: Open throughout.

Origine: Closed 25th — 26th December, open from 5pm 1st — 2nd January.

Ortolana: Closed 25th December.

Osteria Uno: Closed 22nd December — 3rd January.

P — S

Palmer: Closed 22nd December — 14th January.

Parro: Closed 23rd December – 7th January.

Portside Cocktail bar: Closed 24th December – 6th January.

Queens Rooftop: Closed 25th & 26th December.

Ragtag: Closed 23rd December — 9th January.

Rhu: Closed 25th & 31st December — 1st January.

San Ray: Closed 25th — 26th December & 1st — 2nd January.

Schapiro’s: Closed 23rd December — 2nd January.

Síso: Closed 25th December — 12th January.

Skybar: Closed 25th December.

T — Z

Takapuna Beach Cafe: Open throughout. 7am —12pm on Christmas Day.

The Brit: Closed 24th — 26th December and 1st and 2nd January.

The Grill: Open throughout, 5pm — close.

The Pantry at Park Hyatt: Closed 25th December — 6th January.

The Store: Closed 25th December.

Trivet: Open throughout.

Tobi: Closed 25th December & 1st January.

Two Fold: Closed 23rd December — 9th January.

Tyler Street Sport: Closed 24th December — 6th January.

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