Where to Eat and Explore in Auckland

Designer Lillie Toogood and her husband Dirk Paetzold are shaping the narrative of New Zealand for an international audience. Toogood, with her label Good&Co, creates beautifully crafted scarves that showcase the country’s unique and effortless fashion sense. German-born Paetzold, who serves as the creative director of Erstwhile, a vintage-map distributor, has recently introduced Landroamer, providing stylish camping kits and Land Rover Defenders for travelers looking to explore New Zealand’s breathtaking outdoors. They call Auckland home.

Characters of New Zealand

Dirk Paetzold (DP): New Zealand’s remote location, with Australia being the nearest neighbor 2,500 km away, nurtures a distinctive type of community. Visitors often experience the genuine friendliness and willingness to help, particularly when they venture out of Auckland or Wellington, as everyone seems to be connected.

Lillie Toogood (LT): The country’s beauty continues to astonish me, especially as I grow older. Kiwis are sociable, cheerful people with a ‘Just get on with it’ mentality, making it an inspiring time to be part of such a vibrant community.

Exploring Culinary Delights in Auckland

LT: While visitors may not come to New Zealand for the cities, Auckland has much to offer. Our largest city is rich with culinary and creative diversity. The suburbs are particularly exciting, showcasing innovative dining experiences. If you’re a food enthusiast, I suggest visiting Ozone in Grey Lynn for an exceptional lunch. For dinner, Lillian in Grey Lynn is a trendy restaurant worth the wait.

DP: If you’re looking for a unique breakfast or lunch, try Buoy Café, a charming spot with an excellent menu and coffee. Nestled in Westhaven Marina, it offers beautiful views of the water. Another fantastic option is Kingi, located in the trendy Britomart area, known for its sustainably sourced seafood.

Drink Recommendations

LT: For a relaxed weekend outing, consider visiting Hallertau Brewery in Riverhead or Little Creatures Brewery. Both venues accommodate families, making them perfect for a day out with friends and kids.

Don’t miss out on the delightful wine bars scattered across the city. Stafford Road Wine Bar and Annabels on Ponsonby Road are fantastic spots to catch the sunset while enjoying a good glass of wine. Freida Margolis and Madame George are also excellent choices for a cozy evening.

Finding Solitude Beyond the City

LT: For a true escape from the urban environment, the dramatic black sand beaches along the West Coast are a must-visit. Bethells Beach offers stunning cliffs and a chance for invigorating ocean air. During summertime, Thorne Bay becomes a cherished getaway, perfect for a peaceful swim.

Discovering the Rest of New Zealand

DP: We enjoy visiting Turangi, a quaint town on the North Island, situated between Wellington and Auckland. It’s near the beautiful Lake Taupo and the world-renowned Tongariro River, celebrated for trout fishing.

Nearby, Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park, offers breathtaking scenery, including active volcanoes. The Tongariro Crossing, listed among the Top 10 day hikes globally, provides an unforgettable experience, with stunning views of emerald lakes and astonishing landscapes.