More than simply a face shade, a sunhat elevates even the simplest of outfits come summer — these are our picks

Now’s the time to feel the wind in our hair and sand between our toes. Get set for beach season with a sun-shielding bucket hat or elevated cap sure to see you through the summer and beyond.

Celine Plein Soleil 24

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Fancy some fresh air? These may just be Auckland’s best picnic spots

On a balmy afternoon when the sun is high, it doesn’t get much better than gathering some friends, packing some yummy food and heading to one of the best picnic spots in Auckland. Whether heading out and about with friends or that special someone, it’s time to pack up some delicious treats and refreshing drinks and head to one of these picturesque spots — they may just be the best in the city.

Mahurangi Cement Works

Mahurangi Cement Works

Location: 79/133 Wilson Road South, Warkworth

Darkly beautiful with its eroding buildings and lush green surrounds, New Zealand’s first cement manufacturing plant has become the pinnacle of off-piste picnicking since the late 1920s.

Charcoal Bay

Location: Via Rosecamp Road Foreshore Reserve, Beach Haven

If it is a picturesque sunset meal you desire, this west-facing bay is the answer. A lack of signposts makes a hidden gem that the masses are unaware of, but the track — once found — is easily navigable and a breeze to walk.

Maukatia Bay

Maukatia Bay

Location: Muriwai

A beautiful hidden gem located south of Muriwai Beach, Maukatia Bay is the perfect spot to park up for a picnic. Remote, wild and undeniably beautiful, this bay is the ideal place to watch the sun go down, just make sure you have all the essentials on hand.

Eden Garden

Location: 24 Omana Ave, Epsom

While Mount Eden is arguably one of Auckland’s most popular picnic destinations, those in the know skip the climb and head to the 5.5-acre, flower-filled garden at its base.

Secret Cove

Secret Cove

Location: Corner of Stanley Point Road and Second Avenue, Devonport

Set down a narrow accessway on a quiet suburban street, you’ll often find this Pohutukawa-sheltered beach completely deserted, making it an easy contender for one of the best picnic spots in Auckland.

Coyle Park

Location: Point Chevalier

Coyle Park, nestled in Point Chevalier, is a perfect picnic destination for families. With sweeping grassy areas, playgrounds, and breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour, it offers a serene coastal escape. After picnicking, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal walkway or explore the playgrounds.

Silo Park

Location: Corner of Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Wynyard Quarter

Silo Park, overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, combines urban charm with waterfront serenity, making it an ideal picnic spot. Featuring grassy areas, picnic tables, and seasonal open-air cinema, it offers a vibrant atmosphere and stunning cityscape views for families to enjoy Auckland’s bustling waterfront.

Lake Wainamu

Location: Te Henga / Bethells Beach

Lake Wainamu, near Bethells Beach, is a tranquil spot surrounded by towering sand dunes and lush native bush. Enjoy a lakeside meal before exploring the dunes, where adventurous families can try sandboarding for an exhilarating experience amidst the serene beauty of this hidden gem.

Auckland Domain

Location: Park Road, Parnell

Auckland Domain, near the city center, is a historic park perfect for family picnics. Enjoy lush surroundings, charming rose gardens, and serene duck ponds. After your meal, stroll along picturesque pathways or visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to explore its captivating exhibits.

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Beat the heat with our guide to the best ice cream purveyors in town

“An ice cream a day” might be our summer mantra, but this frequency can make it necessary to branch out from the typical flavours. From gourmet gelato to classic cones, these are the best scoops in town.

Left: Duck Island. Right: Miann

Duck Island

Locations: Ponsonby, Takapuna, Newmarket, & Auckland CBD

One of our favourite scoops has to be Duck Island’s Salted Caramel & Cacao Crumb flavour, perfectly sweet with a moreish hint of salt, finished with clusters of cacao nib crumbs layered throughout to offer a bit of chew and texture. That said, this ice cream purveyor is known for its innovation, and is always adding exciting new ice-cream treats to its cabinet. From refreshing berry sorbet scoops, to decadent chocolate and caramel variations to a new Christmas Mince Pie iteration that we’ve certainly got our eyes on, Duck Island’s ice creams offer an array of unique flavours. Although, if it’s something different you’re after, Duck Island also offers ice cream sandwiches (the Cookies & Cream is a particular favourite of ours) and ice cream sundaes, complete will all the tasty trimmings.

Miann

Locations: Ponsonby Central, Britomart

The Mango Lassi flavour from Miann is a fragrant treat that sees refreshing mango blended with a good hint of cardamon, resulting in what tastes like summer in a cone. Or, if you’re after something slightly more indulgent, the now-famous Mont Blanc gelato, with layers of citrusy lemon curd and matcha sponge topped with matcha gelato and matcha Mont Blanc is an utter showstopper.

Little Lato

Locations: Ponsonby, Hahei Beach, Kohimarama Beach

Taking nuttiness to a whole new level is Little Lato’s indulgent (and award-winning) Peanut Butter Chocolate flavour. It’s even dairy-free, so plant-based eaters can also enjoy a scoop or two. That said, Little Lato’s Biscoff Cookie Dough is a must-try this summer. This delectable flavour sees Biscoff Cookie Dough gelato loaded with The Vegan Treatory’s Biscoff cookie dough in a match made in heaven. Otherwise, flavours like Banana & Peanut, Crumpet & Golden Syrup, and Espresso Martini await you at this always-creative ice cream outlet.

Left: Island Gelato. Right: Little Lato

Island Gelato

Locations: City-wide

There is a reason that Island Gelato has expanded well beyond its Waiheke Island beginnings — the flavours here are exceptional. In fact, Island Gelato is one of the most awarded ice cream purveyors in the country, with plenty of creativity and quality at play. Here, find a raft of award-winning flavours like Pineapple Mojito, Strawberry Cashew Cheesecake, Pic’s Peanut Butter Caramel, Spiced Raspberry Vanilla, and so much more.

Charlie’s Gelato

Location: Matakana

An absolute institution in Warkworth, Charlies Gelato is the perfect place to pick up a scoop or two before enjoying a stroll around Matakana. The Black Doris Plum Sorbetto is heavenly, but even better when paired with the new Christmas Cherry. You’re welcome.

Left: Charlie’s Gelato. Right: Giapo

Giapo

Location: Auckland CBD

Operating under the philosophy that ‘normal ice cream is boring’, Giapo is the place to go for something a little less ‘vanilla’. Here, from the cones to the flavours to the toppings, there is no limit to the ice cream makers’ creativity, making it hardly surprising that Giapo is frequently dubbed the best ice cream in Auckland. And while there are a number of showstopping scoops to choose from, the World Famous Hokey Pokey is always a winner.

Ben & Jerry’s

Locations: City-wide

One for the seasoned sugar fans who want to enjoy their scoops guilt-free, Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair flavour was inspired by Tony’s Chocolonely and saw the renowned ice cream purveyors join the chocolatiers’ mission to end modern slavery in cocoa farming. Featuring chocolate ice cream with salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks & sea salt chocolatey chunks made with traceable open-sourced cocoa from Tony’s Open Chain, indulging in creamy goodness has never felt so good.

Left: Penguino. Right: Phil Greig Strawberry Gardens.

Penguino

Location: Browns Bay

Take a trip down memory lane at Browns Bay’s iconic gelato parlour, Penguino — renowned for its deliciously creamy, handmade scoops and tasty flavours that change daily. If you can get your hands on a scoop of the Cotton Candy or the Coconut Choc Chip, you’re in luck.

Phil Greig Strawberry Gardens

Location: Kumeu

Heading to Muriwai for a beach day? Stop off in Kumeu at Phil Greig Strawberry Gardens for real fruit ice creams and smoothies. Generously sized even if you order the smallest version, our favourite is always a frozen yoghurt, mixed berry combo.

Movenpick

Movenpick

Locations: City-wide

Of course, summer in the City wouldn’t be the same without a walk along Mission Bay, finished off with a scoop from Movenpick. Our favourite would have to be the classic tiramisu in one of Movenpick’s renowned waffle cones. That said, there are Movenpick locations all around Auckland if you can’t make it out East.

Tsujiri

Locations: Auckland CBD, Newmarket & Albany

Mad for matcha? Tsujiri has three locations in Auckland and undoubtedly serves the best matcha soft-serves in town. A niche but always very delicious option, very deserving of its place as one of the best ice cream spots in Auckland.

Left: Takapuna Beach Cafe. Right: Tsujiri.

Takapuna Beach Cafe

Location: Takapuna

During the long and hot days of summer, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the North Shore, especially when it includes a stroll along Takapuna Beach. This is only made better with a scoop (or two) of gelato from Takapuna Beach Cafe in hand — where you can find flavours like Salted Caramel, Blood Orange, Chocolate Hazelnut and Honeycomb.

Ollies Burgers & Ice Cream

Location: Royal Oak

An iconic ice cream parlour that offers some of the most beloved, nostalgic Tip Top scoops around, Ollies Burgers & Ice Cream in Royal Oak has been running for 50 years and is still a firm favourite among those looking for a satiating scoop. Proving that you can’t beat the classics, this recognisable corner spot is a summertime must-visit.

Gelatiamo

Location: Wynyard Quarter

Nestled in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, Gelatiamo has been crafting award-winning gelatos and sorbets since 2011. Renowned for its pure, authentic flavours, this artisan spot combines premium Italian ingredients with fresh New Zealand produce. Beyond gelato, their onsite pâtissier creates irresistible desserts, from classic tiramisu to French-inspired pâtisserie.

Left: Gelatiamo. Right: Giapo Pop Up

Giapo Pop-Up at Park Hyatt

Location: Wynyard Quarter

This summer, Giapo brings is bringing its iconic ice cream creations to Wynyard Quarter with the newly-launched Giapo x The Pantry Ice Cream Hut at Park Hyatt Auckland. With five signature flavours to choose from, including Matcha in Coconut and Berry Martini, served right on the water, this limited-time pop-up (open Wednesday — Saturdays all summer) is sure to satisfy all season.

Pistackio

Location: Mount Eden

Tucked away in Mount Eden, Pistackio Gelato & Co. delights with award-winning, handcrafted artisanal gelato made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, each scoop is better than the last, with flavours like Banana & Dolce de Leche, Coconut & Butterscotch, and classic Pistachio on offer.

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Ecostore Boat Wash

Taking your boat out this summer? You need this eco-friendly boat wash, used on some of the world’s most epic superyachts

The fact that Auckland is known as the City of Sails is a testament to our widespread enthusiasm for boating, particularly over the summer season. After all, when so many boats are moored just a hop-skip-and-jump from the central city and with access to the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf mere minutes away, it makes sense that boating is a favourite pastime for many who call Auckland home. But, for every languid, leisurely day spent on the water comes the need for some serious maintenance behind the scenes, whether that be packing supplies or keeping one’s vessel adequately clean. We therefore present a product no boat owner should go without — Ecostore’s dedicated Boat Wash.

Made to remove salt and grime from a range of surfaces, including fibreglass, vinyl, plastic, metal, wood, rubber and glass, Ecostore’s Boat Wash is a seafaring essential. Formulated with all-natural ingredients, it is gentle on precious marine environments and any sensitive skin it comes into contact with.

Ecostore’s new addition has been used as the boat wash of choice for some of the world’s most prestigious superyachts, like the 69-metre Feadship Samaya and the world’s largest aluminium sail ship, Sea Eagle II — a reliable solution to marine maintenance that doesn’t let its low-impact footprint get in the way of some of the most impressive results we’ve ever seen.

The biodegradable formula is available in Ecostore’s signature packaging, which is sustainable and refillable. The concentrated boat wash is economical to use and space-efficient to store, too, with five litres of concentrate able to make 200 litres of solution — more than enough for the summer days ahead.

ecostore.com

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Hit the beach in style with our edit of the season’s must-have beach bags — as practical as they are chic

A designer hold-all tote bag that fits all your summer essentials is a summer essential in itself, and is a sure-fire way to elevate any beach ensemble. From raffia and leather to crochet and canvas, this season, there’s plenty to choose from on the tote front — perfect for a last-minute request from Santa.

Saint Laurent Endless Summer 25

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The dog-friendly walks to enjoy with your furry friend

There’s nothing quite like a hit of fresh air and immersing yourself in nature to boost your mood, and taking your furry friend along for the ride makes the ritual all the more enjoyable. Auckland has no shortage of walks and hikes that are easy enough for you and your dog to enjoy together — a number of which we’ve rounded up below.

Mercer Bay Loop

Duration: 1.4km / 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: On leash

A dramatic trail that weaves its way around some of Auckland’s highest sea cliffs in Piha, the views from Mercer Bay track are exceptional. A brilliant way to tire the dog out while enjoying some indulgent aesthetics, be careful on this one after a downpour as it can get slippery.

Dog Park at Meola Reef

Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash

If your canine had a choice on how to spend its days, we’re relatively sure that bolting about at this Point Chevalier dog park would be it. A fenced area in the centre of Meola Reserve, this is true puppy paradise. A fun one for the whole family, just be careful if you’re taking wee ones along as the dogs can get a tad over-excited and aren’t always known for looking where they’re going.

Māngere Mountain Walk

Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy with some steep sections
Dog: Off leash areas

Though most people tend to head out West when they feel like a weekend wander, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had elsewhere. Southbound, Māngere’s Mountain Path (Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru) is one of our top picks. With paths leading around the volcano’s crater and right up to the rim where stretching views of the Manukau Harbour await, it’s a fresh place for you and Fido to explore.

Waikōwhai Walkway

Duration: 10km / 4 hours but you can do smaller sections
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Dog: Off leash areas

A versatile outing, the sprawling Waikōwhai Walkway offers bush trails, beachfront, off leash areas and more. With an extensive map that covers the entire area and the different trails available for download here, Hillsborough’s coastal walkway is an adventure for all.

Unsworth Reserve

Duration: 5km / About an hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash areas

With a well-maintained trail taking care of your exercise for the day and off-leash areas to give the dog a decent run, Albany’s native-addled Unsworth Reserve provides an excellent day out.

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Beach Etiquette — Your guide to acting beachside appropriate this summer

Given that the beach is one of the few places where it’s acceptable to show up in various states of undress and there aren’t many set rules for beachgoers, there is (in our opinion anyway) a certain standard of behaviour that all of us should adhere to when hitting the seaside this summer.

01. Children

Much like McDonald’s, the beach really is the domain of children. Cast your mind back to your childhood days: there was nothing more exciting than a day at the beach. So show some respect for little Fred and Mary’s day-long civil engineering feat of constructing a small empire (complete with moat) and watch your step. Your haphazard wandering could otherwise extinguish the architectural hopes and dreams of future generations. Likewise, it is never a good idea to outdo the little ones’ construction efforts by developing a larger, more impressive sand castle directly alongside their juvenile attempt. Do the kids a favour and instead, offer to become the one they bury in the sand – preferably at the low tide mark.

02. PDA

While the beach has long been the natural backdrop for many a great romance, there’s nothing quite as stomach-churning as having to witness an overly frisky couple frolicking, limbs akimbo in the middle of the beach. We’re not about to begrudge a few passionate moments, but anyone displaying moves more suited to an R18 movie should be promptly thrown into the surf to dampen their inappropriate ardour. ‘Sex On The Beach’ is a cocktail, not an invite. Let’s keep it that way, shall we?

03. Nudity

Ah, the long-debated topless topic. Should you take your beach attire cues from the Europeans and free your nipple on the beach? Perhaps. But do keep in mind a couple of considerations: a particularly buxom bosom might be best kept within the confines of a bikini top, and we would suggest you show some decorum if there are children in the vicinity. That said, please save the full-blown nudity for beaches that are dedicated to it.

04. The Towel Flick

There is nothing quite as annoying as the inconsiderate towel flick. So next time you’re emerging from the ocean while trying to retain your sexy James Bond composure – don’t lunge at your towel and fling it about your body with nary a thought for anyone else in the area. As we all know, towels hold an extraordinary amount of sand when lifted quickly from the beach, and your inconsiderate gesture will shower everyone within a 100-metre radius in clingy particles. Do the polite thing: either dry yourself with unbridled enthusiasm in an isolated area or carefully lift your towel and take it away from everyone else to shake it clean.

05. Hassling The Lifeguard

Thou shalt respect the man in yellow who waves his hands and blows his whistle. He may seem like he’s overreacting, but it’s more likely that your rather amateurish attempt at body surfing is causing widespread concern amongst the lifeguard fraternity. While you’ve been blissfully unaware of your actions, they have noted your rapid descent to the far reaches of the large swell, thanks to the almighty rip in which you’ve been floundering. Do everyone a favour and heed the lifeguard’s advice, and best do it quickly or your fantasy of locking lips with a buff lifeguard may become more of a lifesaving mouth-to-mouth reality.

06. Dogs

Man’s best friend or unsuspecting beachgoer’s worst nightmare? Canines have been a long-debated addition to beach life, and while many public spots have strict bans on dogs, there are still some more remote spots where Fido is as welcome as the rest of us. Although we can all see the entertainment in an over-enthusiastic dog flailing about in the waves while trying to fetch a large piece of driftwood, what’s not so enjoyable is the realisation that you’ve placed your towel atop a pile of sun-crusted dog turd. Often mistaken for a large section of dried sand, said turd will, upon impact with your tush, ooze through the towel and adhere to your newly prized Gucci one-piece. So if you’re bringing your canine companion to the beach, for god’s sake do the right thing and pick up after them.

07. Noise

The beach is one of the few places where we’re happy to compromise our personal space in order to secure a prime waterfront position. What we must not forget, however, is that the beach has the uncanny ability to amplify every whisper into a shout. So please think twice before loudly giving your beach companion an X-rated, blow-by-blow account of your recent sexual escapades. Similarly, if you are one of those people who brings music to the beach, at least play something that most of us are likely to enjoy listening to. Waking up from a tranquil beach nap to David Guetta’s greatest hits played on a tiny, tinny speaker will never not be annoying.

08. Smoking

The sheer act of lighting up a stinking hot cancer stick in the middle of a beach on a steamy day is quite frankly a phenomenon that we will never understand. But for those of you who are partial, let us remind you that the rest of us are here to escape the toxic city fumes, not to have you kill us slowly with your secondhand badness. We suggest you do everyone a favour and light up somewhere private while we fill our lungs with fresh, salty sea air.

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With summer in full swing and our moods on the up and up, we explore why we feel so good when the sun is shining

From the restorative power of the ocean to the immune-boosting properties of sunshine, summer is the season of radiance and joy for a reason. Here, we look at why we feel so good when the sun is shining.

Life is full of many great pleasures, but nothing quite compares to the specific joy the summer months bring. From devouring a good book outdoors to spending time bobbing on a boat, to tucking into fish & chips at the beach, or the first cool ocean dip of the season — summer is filled with moments that soothe the soul. But, there’s more to those serotonin spikes than meets the eye. Both the sun (and the vitamin D we absorb from its rays), and the ocean (dubbed vitamin sea for a reason) boast myriad benefits, bolstering both our physical and mental health in unprecedented ways. 

Solar Salve

The benefits we reap from vitamin D are vast. And, while we know diligent sun protection is vital when it comes to catching rays (particularly in our corner of the world), the vitamin D produced in our skin after being exposed to the sun has been proven to offer astounding health benefits. Colloquially called ‘the sunshine vitamin’, vitamin D is essential for maintaining overall health — both physical and mental.

Crucial for bones (adequate levels can prevent conditions like osteoporosis), immunity — with vitamin D playing a significant role in boosting our immune system and even proven to prevent colds and flus, bolstering heart health, improving fertility, and more, with exposure also linked to reducing the risk of many cancers, ultimately, vitamin D supercharges our health on unprecedented levels, and is essential for longevity.  

And, beyond physical health, research also suggests that vitamin D can contribute to better mental wellbeing, reducing the risk of depression and mood disorders. We all know anecdotally how much better we feel when getting regular sunshine across the warmer months (Seasonal Affective Disorder is no joke), but there’s real science behind it. The skin makes beta-endorphins when exposed to the sun, which gives you a similar rush to that experienced post-workout. 

Healing Waters

The allure of the ocean is omnipresent for many of us, and, come summer, it’s to the vastness of the sea that we turn. Be it for reprieve from the heat, moments of calm, entertainment, or simply pleasure, the sea is the central axis from which our summer plans revolve. But, its appeal goes beyond pleasure alone. It’s no secret that there are myriad benefits to connecting with nature, and science has uncovered how much can be gained from time spent in green spaces, but the perks of the ocean are lesser-known. 

Without delving too deeply into the science of it all, ‘ocean air’ (much more than a whiff of salt) is known to increase the flow of oxygen around the body, boosting serotonin levels in the process. Moreover, floating in mineral-rich sea water is not only great for your skin and detoxifying for your body, but can reduce stress to meditative levels. This state of relaxation is heightened by the sounds and sights of the ocean, which have been scientifically linked to a relaxed mindstate. 

As these benefits become more widely recognised, a healthy dose of vitamin sea is now even being prescribed as part of therapy treatments. And the wellness and beauty industries are fast jumping on the bandwagon, too, imbuing products with marine extracts — from algae to seaweed, capitalising on each element’s specific attributes.

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Lonely Bay, Shakespeare Reserve, Whitianga

Get off the grid with these secret(ish) swimming spots to discover over summer

There’s something magical about stumbling across a deserted beach, lake, waterfall or swimming hole. Tranquil, secluded places where (if you’re lucky) your only company is the echoing bird calls from the surrounding trees, secret swimming spots are something to be cherished. After sharing a few of our favourites a little while ago, we thought it time to update our list and let you in on some more of our top, isolated spots.

Lonely Bay, Shakespeare Reserve, Whitianga

Located in the Shakespeare Cliff Reserve, a short five-to-ten-minute walk down from the track car park sits Lonely Bay — a breathtaking spot surrounded by pōhutukawa trees and far more private than its often-busy neighbour, Cooks Beach. To get to Lonely Bay, drive to the end of Cooks Beach, turn right up a steep gravel road to Shakespeare Scenic and Historic Reserve and park in the area on the right, near the top of the road.

Peachgrove Bay.

Peachgrove Bay, Great Mercury Island

Though you will need a boat to reach this idyllic bay, your hard work will pay off in spades. Sheltered by thick pōhutukawa covered hills, the crystal clear, turquoise waters are almost tropical and are clear down to four metres. A short walk from the beach, there is also a freshwater river that runs from the beach to a delightful waterfall and swimming hole.

Blue Pools Track, Makarora River.

Blue Pools Track, Makarora River, Mt Aspiring National Park

An hour from Wanaka lies the Makarora River where you can wander through native forests and over swing bridges to reach the pristine Blue Pools, which are as blue as the photographs promise. The river runs clean from the nearby mountains in Mt Aspiring National Park, making it the perfect place for a (very) refreshing dip.

Lake Crucible.

Lake Crucible, Mount Aspiring National Park

A plunge into this alpine lake is exhilarating, to say the least. Dotted with icebergs and found at the top point of Wanaka’s Gillespie Pass Circuit (a 58-kilometre loop hike that takes between three to four days to finish) this dip might take some courage and perseverance, but we can assure you it’s worth it.

Puheke Beach, Doubtless Bay.

Puheke Beach, Doubtless Bay

With nothing but the great sweep of the coast, the white stretch of sand and the undulating sand dunes for company, Puheke Beach on the Karikari Peninsula is the perfect spot for some crowd-free relaxation. To get there, turn off the State Highway 10 onto Inland Road leading to Maitai Bay and follow the road signs.

Whale Bay.

Whale Bay, Matapouri

An exquisite spot for snorkelling, swimming or a day of sunbathing, this white sand beach surrounded by bush is accessed only by foot. Park up in the Matapouri Road car park and follow the track down.

Smugglers Bay.

Smugglers Bay, Bream Head Scenic Reserve, Whangarei Heads

Drive around three hours from Auckland and you’ll reach the Bream Head Scenic Reserve, offering a number of walking tracks. Park at the Urquhart Bay car park and wander across beautiful farmland to reach Smugglers Bay. The white sandy beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is the perfect spot for a picnic and a refreshing dip.

Waewaetorea Island, Russell.

Waewaetorea Island, Russell

Crystal clear, turquoise waters surround this stunning island, and with plenty of captivatingly beautiful, secluded beaches, too — there’s a good chance you’ll have this place to yourself. Waewaetorea Island can only be reached by boat.

Paynes Ford Pools.

Paynes Ford Tramline Track Pools, Golden Bay

A beautiful walking trail that follows an old tramline that was once used to transport timber, the Paynes Ford Track is dotted with a number of superb waterholes. An easy hour-long round trip that allows dogs (on leash), you’ll find the entrance at 1886 Takaka Valley Highway, State Highway 60.

New Chums Beach, Whangapoua.

New Chums Beach, Whangapoua

From the car park at the north end of Whangapoua Beach, cross the stream and walk along the rocky shoreline and over the headland to reach New Chums Beach — a stunning secluded treasure in the Coromandel.

The Eel Hole, Murchison, Tasman.

The Eel Hole, Murchison, Tasman

Don’t be put off by its nickname; this local waterhole is the perfect summer swimming spot — rope swing and all. To reach it, follow the road north of Murchison town for 1km then turn left onto Riverview Road, continuing past the holiday park until you hit the Buller River. 

Elliot Bay, Bay of Islands.

Elliot Bay, Bay of Islands

Located just out of the Bay of Islands you’ll find this privately-owned stunning white sand beach with punchy fun waves, ideal for surfers looking to beat the crowds. Head north on Western Hills Drive, State Highway 1, turn right onto Russell Road before turning right onto Rawhiti Road and continuing round to Elliot Bay. Cross the private property to access the beach and pay your way via the honesty box.

Lake Wainamu.

Lake Wainamu, Waitakere, Auckland

Inland from Te Henga / Bethell’s Beach, Lake Wainamu resides with its sweeping black sand dunes and picturesque surroundings. Park up at the Lake Wainamu car park on your left, a little before you reach the main Te Henga car park, and follow the stream/path to this freshwater lake. You’ll want to take your shoes off for this, as you’ll be walking through water (the stream itself is the path), however make sure you have slides or footwear that’s easy to slip on as that black sand can be scorching. From the car park to the lake takes about 30 minutes, so make sure you take everything you need to park up lakeside for as long as you want.

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Nail your New Year’s Eve makeup with these easy-to-do party looks

The end of the year is nigh, so alongside planning your various New Year’s Eve celebrations (or preparing to attend one of the epic parties happening around Auckland) it’s time to start thinking about your look. Outfits aside, New Year’s Eve offers the perfect opportunity to try out something new on the beauty front, whether it’s a bold eye, a standout lip or colours you wouldn’t usually dare to wear on a normal night out. It is an evening of celebration, after all.

Here are five easy-to-do makeup looks that will have you turning heads this New Year’s Eve.

Make it Metallic

Giving classic New Year’s Eve glamour a decidedly futuristic edge, this beauty trend is all about making the eyes stand out and embracing a sleek, metallic look.

Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eye Palette from Smith & Caugheys
Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Ink Liquid Eyeliner from Sephora
NYX Jumbo Eyes Pencil from AdoreBeauty
Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow from Mecca

Glitter Glow

Give yourself the ultimate glow with a good dose of glitter. Best when applied liberally to the eyes or cheeks, this sparkly trend is sure to turn heads.

Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner from Mecca
GLITTER from MAC
Anastasia Beverly Hills Cosmic Collection Space Dust from AdoreBeauty
Half Magic Face Gems from Mecca

Go Graphic

Trade the classic, demure cat-eye for this bold iteration and command attention at any party. When trying this look at home, don’t be afraid of using a heavy hand. The trick here is a thick, dark line, extended beyond the bounds of your natural eyes to make them look dark and mysterious.

Gucci Beauty Stylo Définition L’Obscur Eyeliner from AdoreBeauty
Napoleon Perdis Sketch Pot Gel Eyeliner from AdoreBeauty
BENEFIT COSMETICS
Roller Lash Mascara from Sephora
Huda Beauty
Life-Liner Duo Pencil & Liquid Eyeliner from Sephora

Heavenly Holographic

Another futuristic beauty trend, holographic hype is transforming our makeup from minimalist matte to light-reflecting radiance with the flick of a brush. Designed to give your eyes an ethereal pop, this trend is for those who want to stand out in a more subtle (but no less effective) way.

DAZZLESHADOW LIQUID from MAC
Half Magic
Glitterpuck Multi-Use Pressed Fairy Dust from Mecca
MECCA MAX
Show-Topper Holographic Eyeshadow Toppers from Mecca
Rituel de Fille Celestial Sphere Gelée Eye Gloss from Mecca

Cherry Lips

To enter the new year with a polished, pronounced pout, perfect your base (hydration, hydration, hydration), followed by a deep, dark, vibrant cherry red — finishing with a gloss for shine, if you’re that way inclined.

MAC Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick from Smith & Caugheys
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil from Sephora
Clinique Pop Plush Creamy Lip Gloss from Adorebeauty
Estee Lauder Pure Color Revitalizing Crystal Balm from Iconic

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