If you’ve ever ventured down Herne Bay’s famously festive avenues on Halloween, you’ll know the neighbourhood takes the occasion very seriously. Elaborately decorated homes, hordes of K-Pop Demon Hunters, Galindas and Elphabas, and more than a few parents getting into the spirit of things make for one of Auckland’s most entertaining afternoons. And right in the heart of it all, on Jervois Road, Andiamo has become something of a Halloween institution in its own right.
This year, with Halloween falling on a Saturday, we’re expecting the celebrations to be bigger, busier and considerably more spirited than ever. The Andiamo team will be embracing the occasion in full costume, with themed cocktails, exceptional food and an atmosphere that’s guaranteed to be anything but ordinary. On the drinks front, expect a Bloody Orange Margarita, the vodka-based Witches Cauldron and the gin-infused Black Widow, while a live DJ will keep the festivities going from 3pm until 9.30pm. Dressing up is very much encouraged, and little ghouls and goblins are more than welcome. In fact, we’d suggest getting there early, finding a spot in the sunshine and watching the neighbourhood’s wonderfully eccentric Halloween parade unfold around you.
For parents accompanying the trick-or-treating brigade, Andiamo makes an excellent meeting point for a well-earned drink, particularly once the older children are off exploring the avenues. And when the last sweets have been collected and appetites inevitably return, there’s no better excuse to gather everyone around the table for a delicious meal. Just be warned, on a Saturday Halloween in Herne Bay, we suspect securing a table will be almost as competitive as getting your hands on the best Halloween candy.
