Where I’d take an out of towner in Auckland
People don’t just come to Auckland for Auckland. They come for a slice of NZ. The landscapes, the produce, the vineyards, the coastlines, the energy.
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First stop? Queen’s Rooftop. One of the highest viewpoints over the Waitematā Harbour, with a direct line out to the Waitākere Ranges. Honestly, the sunset from up here is next-level — it’s beyond special, and makes for the most memorable start to your tour. The energy is always spot-on: a little bit fancy, always buzzy. Grab a drink, take in the view, and ease into Auckland properly.
Once the sky’s done its thing, head downstairs to Ahi for dinner. It’s one of my all-time favourite spots to take people — especially when I want to show off what our beautiful country has to offer by way of cuisine. Everything on the menu has that thoughtful, true-to-NZ feel. It’s refined, but not stuffy. Just genuinely good food, done right, with slick service, that still has that approachable kiwi feeling.
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We’re heading west — to Piha, one of New Zealand’s most iconic black-sand beaches. It’s raw, rugged, and completely breathtaking. I was a Westy for just over 17 years, and this region has my heart. There’s something special out here: the wild coastline, the native bush, the pace of life. I’ve travelled the world many times, and there’s truly nothing else like Piha — it’s one of a kind.
Now, onto the food.
Down the hill, where the old Piha Café once stood, is Aryeh — a dining experience that genuinely stays with you. Executive Chef Lucas Parkinson, (formerly of the award-winning Ode in Wānaka), brings a food philosophy rooted in sustainability, seasonality and storytelling. His dishes are driven by what’s local, what’s good, and what’s meaningful — crafted from ingredients foraged and sourced from the surrounding region.
The food is thoughtful and elevated without losing its soul. The space is simple, perched in nature with big windows, expansive outdoor dining space and even bigger views. Once the sun starts to dip behind Lion rock, it’s hard not to get swept up in the moment.
A couple of courses, a great bottle of wine, and suddenly you’ve completely settled into west coast mode.
Even if you don’t have an out-of-towner to impress, take someone special. This is one of those rare spots that feels like a proper discovery.
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If you love wine (hi, it’s me), then a day on the island is a non-negotiable. Just a short ferry ride from the city, Waiheke brings rolling vineyards, beautiful beaches, and some of Auckland’s best sipping.
Here’s the plan:
Grab the bus or a taxi straight to Tantalus Estate to kick things off. It’s easy, convenient, and starts things strong.Tantalus is a bit of a unicorn — award-winning wines, an on-site brewery, lush gardens, stunning architecture, and one of the best seasonal menus on the island. If wine’s not your thing (or someone in your crew’s), the beer paddles are a great shout.
Start with their guided cellar door tasting — it’s structured, insightful, and lets you sample some of their delicious drops. Once you’ve discovered your fave, grab a glass and head out to the terrace or lawn. The gardens are too good not to linger.
Hot tip: Pair the tasting with their small snacks menu — it’s more budget-friendly, and this way you won’t miss out on the good stuff! The team will help you match the dishes to your wine flight. (Just make sure to book the tasting ahead — this place fills up fast.)
Next Stops (all within walking distance):
Stonyridge – Well known for bordeaux-style reds. The vineyard has a beautiful olive-tree courtyard and a relaxed Med feel.
Te Motu – Intimate and rustic with a zero-waste kitchen and estate-grown blends.
Wild Estate – Wine, beer, cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, lawn games, and chill vibes. Great if you want to switch things up a little.
Why I love this line-up:
It’s all walkable — no taxis needed in-between, just a vineyard-to-vineyard wander.Finish with a pie on the ferry (you might need it) and call it a day well spent.