Hideaway with a view
Auckland 1001
+64 9 377 8424
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Hideaway with a view |
183 Karangahape Road Auckland 1001 +64 9 377 8424 |
Hidden away at the very end of St Kevin's Arcade on "K' Road", Alleluya features nice views over Myers Park into the city. Sip on your favorite drink at the bar or feast on a hearty meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bec Dean |
 Premier performing arts and cultural centre |
Queen Street (The Edge, Aotea Square) Auckland 1001 +64 9 307 5060 http://www.the-edge.co.nz/auck... aoteasquaremarket@the-edge.co.nz |
New Zealand opera star Dame Kiri Te Kanawa opened the centre in 1990, and the multi-purpose venue is host to productions by Opera New Zealand, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the Auckland Philharmonia, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, as well as international artists, conventions and exhibitions, theatrical and musical performances. Various venues within the centre seat audiences from 180 to 2256. Admission and bookings: Admission to view the centre is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chamary  |
 Photo: Bentley Smith |
Child-friendly cafe |
121 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 376 4954 |
Atomic Cafe has been established for so long that they sell a custom T-shirt and branded coffee! Original brick walls, polished kauri floorboards and a collection of antique coffee pots lend character. There is a small garden and deck at the rear, complete with a sandpit for the kids. Check out the petanque happening out the back on Saturday mornings. As well as excellent coffee and a wide range of teas, the cakes and brioche are luscious! The tasty and healthy breakfast and lunch menus are up on the board. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Main reserve in city |
Park Road (Across Grafton Bridge) Auckland 1001 +64 9 379 2020 (Tourist Information) http://www.aucklandcity.govt.n... |
Just a short walk east from the city centre, Auckland Domain is New Zealand's oldest municipal park. Founded in 1840 by Governor Hobson, the Domain features the Auckland War Memorial Museum, an outdoor fernery and botanic Wintergardens, a band rotunda (watch for free concerts on summer weekends), sculptures, lawn bowls, kiosk and more. The Domain is the location of the huge concerts such as Coca Cola Christmas in the Park when 300,000 people jam in for a night of music and fireworks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: explode |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: explode |
 Photo: Kevan J. Williams |
 Photo: Jeremy Yee |
 Photo: Gareth R. Howells |
 Photo: black_lava |
 Photo: Daniel Kelpe |
 Photo: Francesca Hughes |
 Photo: recuerdos del futuro |
 Photo: NZ Alex |
 Photo: juan ujčić |
 Photo: Chris Simonson |
 Photo: Kara Maloney |
 Photo: Jørgen Rakke |
 Photo: Urs Ross |
 Photo: ayliu |
 Photo: JanusKopf |
 Photo: malloreigh hamilton |
 The world on screen |
Civic Theatre Corner Queen and Wellesley Streets Auckland 1001 +64 4 385 0162 http://www.enzedff.co.nz |
Run by the New Zealand Film Festival, a charitable trust set up to foster interest in good movies, the Auckland International Film Festival is a big attraction every July. About 120 features and a similar number of short movies are shown each festival, not only in Auckland, but also in Wellington and with selected highlights in other regional centres. Auckland's festival, directed by Bill Gosden, was founded in 1970, and audiences now exceed 200,000 annually. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: visualmongoose |
 Orchestra with International Talent |
Dominion Road P.O. Box 56 024 Auckland 1030 +64 9 638 7073 http://www.akl-phil.co.nz/ ap@aucklandphil.co.nz |
The major international concert series for the orchestra each year features international conductors and soloists, as well as pre-concert talks. Fifteen concerts are held between March and September in either the Town Hall or the adjacent Aotea Centre. These concerts are heavily subscribed and adult admission prices vary from NZD25-NZD85 per concert. However, some concerts offer free tickets, so check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
A wedge with edge |
Queen Street Aotea Square Auckland 1001 +64 9 307 5060 http://www.the-edge.co.nz/auck... info@the-edge.co.nz |
Officially opened in 1911, this Italian renaissance revival-style building not only serves as the Council Chamber and city mayoral offices, it has two performance venues, the Great Hall and the Concert Chamber, as well as several function spaces. The wedge-shaped building underwent a NZD32.8 million restoration in 1997 to maintain its heritage features and Edwardian elegance. The Great Hall is regarded as one of the finest concert halls (acoustically) in the world, and has hosted circus acts, formal government dinners, weddings, music awards and rock concerts. It seats 1700 people, while the Concert Chamber caters for up to 400 people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laela Delprat |
 Photo: Laela Delprat |
 Photo: Sarah Macmillan |
 Photo: Daniel McIntosh |
 Photo: Wayne Wheeler |
 Photo: Tim A |
 Photo: isaac.christian |
 Photo: Jacqueline Ramos |
 Brochures and bookings |
Corner Quay & Hobson Streets Viaduct Harbour Auckland 1001 +64 9 979 7070 http://www.aucklandnz.com/Visi... enquiries@aucklandnz.com |
There is plenty of room here to relax while browsing through the enormous number of free brochures available. Information covers accommodation, local public transport, travel arrangements further afield and all manner of activities including sightseeing and tours. Information is available for the whole of New Zealand. The friendly staff can help you with information and reservations. A small range of souvenirs is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
Stylish cafe/bistro |
268 Ponsonby Road Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 378 7766 / +64 (0)25 989 869 (Mobile) bambina@xtra.co.nz |
Bambina is a well-established, small café with a faithful clientele. The décor is a cool but gentle minimalism blended with a touch of the past. It offers an all-day breakfast, and is renowned for its panini and other delectable items such as bruschetta with avocado and tomato (NZD7.50), and orange polenta cake. The lunch menu operates from 11am (NZD10.50-14). Try the Greek salad with haloumi NZD11.50. The food tends to be international in style with a Pacific Rim touch. Bambina is licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Loud Music and Entertainment |
Ericsson Stadium, Maurice Rd Penrose Auckland 1006 +64 (0)9 571 1699 http://www.bigdayout.com |
Launched in 1996, this day-long event tours Auckland and five Australian cities annually. Major international acts are in the line up as well as local New Zealand and Australian bands. There are three stages with continuous music, as well as The Boiler Room tent for house music. Food and beverage stalls keep the energy levels high. Other stalls sell band promotional material, jewellery, tattoos and body piercing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stuart Broughton |
 Photo: Tom Henderson |
 Photo: Dana Pepcak |
 Photo: maidmeg7 |
 Photo: Tim Fieldes |
 Photo: Steffen Rusten |
 Photo: Grainne O'Sullivan |
 Photo: Kat - TeamKitten |
 Photo: mandy_zara |
 Photo: Alan and Alli Jordan |
 Photo: bevan_nz |
 Photo: Kai König |
Neo-post industrial cafe |
256 Karangahape Rd Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 302 2677 http://www.brazil.co.nz stronghold@brazil.co.nz |
Located in the historic Norman Ng building, Brazil features an iconoclastic décor, superb coffee (they roast their own beans), a diverse clientele and awesome snacks--plus you can surf the Web on the upstairs workstation. Brazil features exposed pipes, peeling paint, and an apocalyptic espresso machine. But the décor pales next to the clientele--dress codes do not apply and there are probably more piercings and tattoos per capita here than anywhere else in town. Brazil is a top destination for lovers of fine coffee, regardless of hair style. Simple but hearty breakfasts are served all day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Take a trip down the Arcade stairs |
Basement Level 179 Karangahape Road Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 303 1673 |
Calibre is perhaps Auckland's most select nightclub--but if you look good, you are guaranteed entry. Many famous, international faces have been spotted here and foreign DJs often spin grooves here on a Friday night. Some call the décor gloomy, but the music is hot and so is the well-dressed clientele. A trip down the stairs of St Kevin's Arcade is well worth it for a super-cool night out in Auckland. Drinks are a little more expensive here than in other bars and clubs. A cocktail shaker will cost you approximately NZD25 but it will be expertly prepared. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura J. Murphy |
 Photo: Laura J. Murphy |
Two rooms; two sounds |
33-35 High Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 303 1336 info@thebox.co.nz |
Cause Celebre and The Box are really one club, split into two areas, each playing different music running the gamut of drum'n'bass, jungle, house and hip hop music for those who love to dance. Long established and centrally located on High Street, it is a popular spot. Besides resident DJs (Chris Hogan, Chris Cox and Emerson Todd), The Box frequently features international guest DJs. Cause Celebre hosts "Retrorama" on Wednesdays featuring nostalgic club hits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The main artery of Queen Street, studded with retail and commercial buildings, flows like lava from Newton to Downtown, with the shadow of the Sky Tower reflected in every gleaming glass tower. Take a cultural stopover at the Art Gallery, Town Hall, Aotea Centre, the Force Entertainment Centre and the Civic Theatre. The fashion heart is located nearby in High Street, home to some of the world's hottest new labels-World, Karen Walker and Zambesi. Queen Street eventually converges with the waterfront and the revamped Viaduct Harbour. On the inner city fringe is Grafton, location of Auckland Hospital, the ice-cream coloured Starship Children's Hospital and Auckland's major recreational park-the Domain, with its sports fields, Wintergardens, duck ponds and War Memorial Museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Iqbal Ansari |
 Photo: Iqbal Ansari |
 Photo: Bentley Smith |
 Photo: Will Luo |
 Photo: Martin O'Connell |
 Photo: Gareth R. Howells |
Opulent theatre and movie house |
Corner Wellesley and Queen Streets Auckland Auckland 1001 +64 9 307 5075 http://www.civictheatre.co.nz civictheatre@xtra.co.nz |
After a NZD39.8 million restoration, the grandeur and opulence of the spectacular Civic features many facets not seen by the public for many years. The theatre was built in 1929 with Indian motifs plus stars on the auditorium ceiling reflecting the Southern Hemisphere night sky. There is a grand staircase to the Winter Garden, originally a Continental-style tea garden that was a wartime cabaret. The international-standard lyric theatre itself seats 2350 people. Unfortunately the interior is not open purely for viewing - but it is well worth buying a movie ticket so as to get to see it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel McCollum |
 Photo: John Power |
 Photo: André Meurer |
 Photo: Annalise Davidson |
 Photo: tom reed |
 Photo: Andrew Zen |
 Photo: Alexander Steeb |
 Photo: Megan J. Mohn |
 Go for a laugh |
321 Queen Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 373 4321 http://www.comedy.co.nz info@comedy.co.nz |
There has always been funny business in this establishment--before it became a comedy theatre, it was a porn cinema! Now, you will find a varied array of funny folk from part-timers and professionals through to international comedians. Occasionally there are other events, such as music, film and video, and alternative cabaret. Check their website for details of events. There are two licensed bars and cabaret seating for up to 140 people. Admission: Session prices vary from NZD6-15. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: explode |
Bar with a view |
Level 7, Hewlett Packard Building Prince's Wharf Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 300 9966 http://www.coastbar.co.nz enquiry@coastbar.co.nz |
Enjoy a drink high above Prince's Wharf in this stylish and desirable bar. Popular with Auckland's nightclub set, it also has one of the best views the city has to offer, as well as some fantastic cocktails (NZD11) and other beverages. Bar snacks such as antipasto platters are served for around NZD10. DJs are in residence on Friday and Saturday nights. Entry is gained via a lift on the ground floor. The doormen can be ruthless and a high standard of dress is required. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Jazzy sounds from a cool, dark bar |
17 High Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 379 6811 |
Deschlers Bar found fame as a modern jazz venue, and live bands feature several nights a week. Deschlers is long and narrow, with plenty of bar seating and a row of old-style booths. The clientele ranges from students to mature businesspeople relaxing after a hard day at the office. Deschlers has a great range of beers and cocktails--all expertly made by experienced staff. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Harper |
 Photo: Jason O'Brien |
Flowers Galore |
Regional Botanic Gardens, Hill Road Manurewa Auckland 1702 +64 (0)9 309 7875 http://www.ellerslieflowershow... mail@ellerslieflowershow.co.nz |
Each November, the largest gardening and outdoor event in the Southern Hemisphere attracts more than 60,000 visitors from all parts of the world. Running over five days, it features floral design exhibits and garden, art and market stalls. The Rotary Club of Auckland launched the event in 1993 to raise money for charity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joe Max Laufer |
 Photo: Charlotte Franklin |
 Photo: Joe Max Laufer |
 Photo: André Meurer |
 Photo: Madeleine Howard |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Photo: Madeleine Howard |
 Photo: Charlotte Franklin |
 Photo: sue tickner |
 Photo: Abby Turbott |
Organic with style |
Shed 22 Prince's Wharf Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 309 9866 http://www.eurobar.co.nz |
Euro is consistently rated amongst the best restaurants in Auckland. Looking out from the edge of Prince's Wharf over the Waitemata harbour, the dining room is crisp, minimalist and very trendy. Nearly all the produce used at Euro is organic. Try the salt and pepper squid with roasted garlic mayo, charred lime and virgin olive oil NZD16.50, followed by the restaurant's signature dish--rotisserie chicken, rubbed, spiced and lightly blackened, served with creamy mash and celeriac slaw NZD24.50. Euro has a very good wine list. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine Klitsie |
IMAX screen, 12 cinemas, food, bars and fun |
Aotea Square Queen Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 979 2405 |
In this architectural masterpiece, the historic art-deco stylings of the cherished Civic Theatre meld into the futuristic sci-fi stylings at the opposite end of the block. Here, rocket-like columns open onto Aotea Square. An immense six-level atrium links the various businesses housed by the centre: New Zealand's largest multiplex cinema (12 screens), the Imax giant-screen cinema, the New Century Boulevard food hall, the Time Out family games and leisure centre, Planet Hollywood and Borders mega book store. A ride in the 10.4 metre-high rocket-shaped observation lift is an experience in itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel McCollum |
 Photo: Daniel McCollum |
Gay mecca |
5 High St Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 336 1101 |
Located in the middle of the city, this historic gay nightclub, formerly called "Alfies," underwent major renovations before changing its name. The club features resident DJs and drag shows. A free membership card gives you free entrance to the club, otherwise admission is NZD5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Louise Simms |
If You Have It, Flaunt It! |
Ponsonby Road Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 367 0634 http://www.Hero.org.nz info@hero.org.nz |
Auckland's own gay pride extravaganza, the Hero Parade, is the showcase for the Hero organization, a gay and lesbian group. The organization is beign reorganized, and therefore the future of the parade is a bit up in the air. Usually, the February parade and street party wends its way along the restaurant strip of Ponsonby Road, closing the street to traffic and drawing massive crowds. The marching boys are always a crowd favourite, putting on a very slick performance. None can match the glamour of the drag queens, who dust off their finest outfits for this great night out. Check the website for more details on other Hero Festival events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Class act |
3 Enfield Street Mt Eden Auckland 1003 +64 (0)9 630 3055 |
Located in an impressive turn-of-the-century brick building, the Horse and Trap is an Auckland institution. With three levels of bars and restaurants, the wood/brick interior is exquisite--the wooden bar is especially ornate. There is a fireplace for chilly evenings and a garden patio for warm afternoons. With a good selection of local beers on tap, including Monteiths, and a fine selection of food, the Horse and Trap is a class act--it even has its own stop on the adjacent rail line! Who could ask for anything more than good traditional pub food washed down with hand-crafted beer? Review © 2007, Wcities |
Max out visually |
Corner Aotea Square and Queen Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 915 2222 http://www.imax.com.au info@imax.com.au |
Tiered like an amphitheatre, Imax guarantees you can see all of the screen unhindered--and there is a lot of screen at 19.8 by 27 metres. The film image is 10 times the size provided by 35mm film. This means clear, in-your-face viewing and superb sound provided by a 30,000-watt system using DVD technology. Comfortable airline-style seats allow you to sit back and relax. Certain movies are viewed in 3D with special electronic goggles. The film play list has something to interest everyone, however the subject matter is almost secondary. Come here and be amazed at the technology! Admission: Adult NZD14.95; Child NZD8.95. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Leggat |
 Photo: Kate |
 Photo: Rui Jiang |
 Photo: Kate |
 Photo: Rui Jiang |
Music for the 30 something set |
Downstairs @ Corner Ponsonby Road and Pompallier Terrace Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 376 5870 http://www.javajive.co.nz info@javajive.co.nz |
Java Jive provides a live music venue for the 30+ set who still relish a good night out and good music. There is live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday evenings with anything from jazz to rhythm and blues; country rock to rock 'n roll. The dress code is casual--but clean and tidy and the atmosphere is friendly. The venue is fully licensed with a well-stocked bar with New Zealand beers and wines, a good variety of cocktails, liqueurs and spirits as well as coffee and soft drinks. The kitchen turns out simple but hearty fare. Check the gig guide on their websit Review © 2007, Wcities |
Clubbers delight |
309 Karangahape Road Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 303 2726 http://www.kissnightclub.co.nz/ ian@kissnightclub.co.nz |
Kiss Bar is a night clubbers dream—non-stop pumping house music in great surroundings. This is one of Auckland's most pleasant nightclubs—it is never over-filled and the decor is clean and bright. The clubbers here are usually young and energetic and the vibe is infectious. Very inflexible doormen ensure that a semblance of style is preserved even on a wild Friday night. The drinks are of average price, a local beer costing around NZD5.50. The bar staff can usually mix up a mean shaker to help your night roll along. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel McCollum |
With a twist! |
167 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 360 7167 |
Lime is relaxed and friendly and you are likely to hear old Dean Martin tracks playing on the sound system. Space is at a premium, so busy nights are not recommended for claustrophobics! The cramped conditions, however, make it a great place for chatting to people—and the clientele is largely made up of friendly local people. The cocktails are superb—the average price being around NZD12 for a classic Cosmopolitan. The wine and beer list is vast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Pig out |
204 Quay Street, The America's Cup Village Viaduct Basin, PO Box 106 191 Auckland 1001 +64 9 366 6491 http://www.loadedhog.co.nz/ hogakld@loadedhoggroup.co.nz |
With its prime location right on Viaduct Harbour, the Loaded Hog could serve pigswill and still draw a decent crowd. However, the food and beer are excellent and as a result the place is always busy. It has giant paintings of famous New Zealanders, and antique farm implements on the walls. The Loaded Hog is comfortable and never too smoky. The beer is brewed on-site. Hog Gold Lager, Hog Draft, Hog Wheat and the especially tasty Hog Dark Ale are all available on tap. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mick Yates |
 Photo: Timothy L Jones |
Join the locals in this unpretentious British bar |
Corner Queen and Wellesley Streets Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 373 3684 http://www.hellhq.co.nz/londonbar |
This typical British-influenced Kiwi pub is right in the middle of the city, located upstairs across the road from the Civic Theatre. The pub features live music, mainly jazz, from Thursday through to Sunday evenings, with local bands and artists. This traditional pub draws a mixed clientele, especially on jazz nights. It is a good place to meet the locals drinking their Lion Red--a rather sweet New Zealand beer. There is a well-stocked bar with several beers on tap. Pub food and snacks are available for around NZD5 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
Home of Warriors and Kingz |
Beasley Avenue Penrose Auckland 1006 +64 9 571 1603 http://www.mtsmartstadium.co.nz stadium@arc.govt.nz |
In industrial Penrose, is the home of the Auckland Warriors Rugby League Club, the Football Kingz and Athletics Auckland. International bands performances and large scale open-air operas have also been staged here. The music festival - The Big Day Out -happens here each January. The ground was home of the track and field events for the 1990 Commonwealth Games. Review © 2007, Wcities |
If you want to dance |
17 Albert Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 373 3664 |
The Ministry has been the site of many clubs through the years, but none so successful as its present incarnation. It is dedicated to dance, and different types of dance music are featured each night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Gather For Gags |
Level One 321 Queen Street Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 309 9241 http://www.comedyfestival.co.nz info@comedyfestival.co.nz |
This is the annual major international comedy event in New Zealand. The laughs include stand-up comedy to take in music, theatre and magic. Guest highlights on the programme included Paton Jackson, Rich Hall, Jimeoin and Adam Bloom and of course the best of New Zealand's comedic talent. There are several venues hosting events all over town including The Classic Comedy & Bar and Leftfield Sports Bar & Restaurant. For full details and bookings check the web site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Belgian beer and mussels |
6 Vulcan Lane Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 300 6226 occi@belgian-beer-cafe.co.nz |
This café is located on a character-rich pedestrian lane between Queen Street and High Street, right in the city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Caico |
 Photo: Richard Chisholm |
 Photo: Richard Chisholm |
Arts and crafts of Polynesia |
Great North Road (Western Springs Lakeside) Auckland 1002 +64 (0)9 379 2020 http://www.akcity.govt.nz/ pasifika@aucklandcity.govt.nz |
Auckland has the world's largest urban Polynesian population, and this festival is New Zealand's largest Pacific Islands' community event. The event has grown annually, in size and popularity, since 1993. Various stages dotted around the lake, present entertainment. More than 180 stalls sell and display Pacific Island crafts and foods, and the cultural villages present arts, crafts, performances, storytelling and ceremonial displays. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fiji tuwawa |
 Photo: Rebekah Davies |
 Photo: Matthias Postel |
 Eclectic and stylish |
Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 979 2333 (Tourist Information) http://www.ponsonbyonline.co.nz |
Famous for its role as Auckland's cafe and restaurant mecca, Ponsonby Road has in recent years also become a spot to shop for that unusual or special, gift or piece of clothing. The road is long but flat, with plenty of watering holes along the way. Highlights include the beautiful Redcurrent store near the Richmond Road intersection, where pashminas fill the room with vibrant and cheerful colour. Other must sees are Made in Japan over the road from Redcurrent, for designer pieces. Opening hours: Opening hours are given as a guide only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Power music |
33 Mt Eden Road Mt Eden Auckland 1003 +64 (0)9 377 3488 http://www.powerstation.co.nz |
The Powerstation is a licensed, live music and entertainment venue. It has an audience capacity of 1000 plus, and some big names in the music industry have performed here in the past. It is also a regular venue on the TV2 International Laugh Festival itinerary and has even hosted a New Zealand heavyweight boxing title fight! The liquor licence here allows minors to enter. The Powerstation is only open for events--telephone or check their web site for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M Streeter |
 Photo: M Streeter |
 Buy, sell and trade music |
438 Queen Street Auckland Central Auckland 91285 +64 (0)9 302 3940 http://www.realgroovy.co.nz auckland@realgroovy.co.nz |
Opened in 1981, this cavernous store prides itself on offering the biggest range of music in New Zealand. It is particularly popular with musicians because of this, and also thanks to its range of music-related clothing and a notice board that helps promote bands and connect musicians. Not only are there stacks of CDs and tapes, but also videos, DVDs, computer games and accessories, and an eclectic range of books and magazines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Annalise Davidson |
Definitive Ponsonby Road eatery |
150 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 360 1710 http://www.ponsonbyroad.co.nz/... SPQRNZ@xtra.co.nz |
SPQR was one of the original cafes in Ponsonby and its popularity has stood the test of time. It is now a sophisticated upmarket restaurant and bar rather than a simple café. It has a certain energy—the later it gets the more it seems to buzz. It draws an eclectic crowd from gays, lesbians and cross-dressers to business people and straights—people watching is a treat here. The beautifully presented food is Italian. Some examples from the menu include char-grilled calamari salad with rocket, roast garlic and lemon oil, and seared, rare tuna with smoked tomato, salsa, rocket, balsamic and caroli oil. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tina Paredes |
Small but sophisticated |
114-116 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 378 8431 |
Much of the action at Santos happens on the street where you can see and be seen. Coffee enthusiasts from South America are behind this popular daytime haunt. The café interior is narrow, and has a smart minimalist style. Wide glass doors open to the street front or over the courtyard at the side, and the chairs are comfortable. A relaxed and jovial air prevails. Food is simple but tasty and Italian in character, such as panini (NZD6-8) and biscotti served with Santos coffee and fresh juices. The standard breakfast menu runs until about 2pm. Prices are very reasonable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
New Zealand on stage |
Lower Greys Avenue Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 366 0339 http://www.silotheatre.co.nz/ info@silotheatre.co.nz |
This theatre was incorporated as a charitable trust in 1998 with the aim of providing a venue for the development of budding New Zealand works, training and experimentation. The programmes include improvised shows, jazz, comedy, short films and the spoken word. Bar facilities are available, and the theatre seats a hundred people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
Get into the groove! |
373 Karangahape Road Auckland 1001 +64 9 308 9985 webmaster@sinners.co.nz |
Located on lively "K'Road", Sinners is a dance club on two floors. They have good resident DJs and frequently host overseas guest DJs playing the hottest groove tracks to keep you dancing all night. Sinners is a very popular haunt, with pool tables, a lounge area and dance floor. The clientele is a relaxed mix of straights, gays, and lesbians in their 20s and 30s. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Multiple entertainment options |
Corner Victoria and Federal Streets Auckland 1001 +64 (0)9 912 6000 http://www.skycity.co.nz enquiries@skycity.co.nz |
A good variety of games including blackjack, roulette and baccarat as well as over 1,000 slot machines with top pay outs of more than NZD250,000 can be found here. For beginners, free lessons are available. You must be 20 years or over to enter the casino. The Alto Casino & Bar, on level three, offers a quieter atmosphere and has a "smart" dress code. The complex also has a hotel, many restaurants and bars, a theatre and of course the 328-metre Sky Tower. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leon Arndt |
 Photo: Michelle Howson |
Take five days for jazz |
Waiheke Island Auckland 1240 +64 (0)800 52 9933 http://www.waihekejazz.co.nz david@waihekejazz.co.nz |
Musician, David Paquette, a resident on this island of some 7000 souls, founded the festival in 1992. For five days over every Easter weekend, the various styles of jazz attract more than 20,000 people to take the 40-minute boat trip to the island. Special buses take fans to various venues. Musicians come from as far afield as the USA and France, and performances are held at various times in venues including pubs, cafes and vineyards. Check the web site for more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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