One of the most prominent shopping districts and trendy suburbs of Auckland, Ponsonby is named after the major thoroughfare skirting it. A cultural hub, it was the base of artists, revolutionaries, poets, playwrights, lawyers and romantics. Historic villas, hip boutiques, charming cafes, lively bars and clubs and art galleries dot the streetscape of this iconic inner-city suburb giving it a bohemian vibe. Franklin Road during Christmas is decked up with fairy lights, giving it a magical aura.
The Saturday morning open-air market at Otara is already bustling as the sun comes up. Stallholders sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to island music CDs and arts and crafts. With a decidedly South Pacific flavor, the Otara Market draws thousands of shoppers looking for bargains and exotic clothing and foods such as raw fish marinated in coconut milk or pineapple fritters. Access is from the East Tamaki off-ramp, about 20 kilometers south of central Auckland on the Southern Motorway. Arrive early for a good car park.
If you have ever thought Bill Clinton looks well fed, here is the reason why. He popped in to this store on his way through New Zealand. Specialists in handmade chocolates (with over 100 to choose from), they also do gift boxes and corporate packages. Attached is a dessert and coffee shop where you may like to relax over a hot or cold drink, a snack, or some Swensen's ice cream. So, if you are after truffles, liqueur, fruit and nut, rocky road, coconut rough...whatever--this is the place.
Sylvia Park is known to be one of largest shopping areas in town. Housing a cinema theater, numerous dining outlets, entertainment venues, and a number of stores, the place is one of the most visited in Auckland. To spend a day shopping, eating and making merry, take your friends and family along and spend a day at Sylvia Park.
A combination of record shop and a restobar, Conch Kitchen and Bar is one of its kind. With comfortable dining area inside the shop and out in the courtyard, this place is spacious enough to accommodate all of the visiting customers. Design of the seating area in the courtyard is similar to that of a beach shack with each table separated by a wooden wall in between. The menu comprises local cuisine along with dishes with South American and Latin infusions, the menu also comrpises a small pizza section for people who do not wish to experiment. Bar menu comprises local as well as imported craft beer, cider, wines and all kinds of spirits. Being a place with musical inclination, this venue plays host to local as well as touring international DJs too. With a huge collection of classic as well as latest vinyl records, Conch Kitchen and Bar is haven for music lovers.
Featuring mainly New Zealand and Australian labels, this is the place for specialized sportswear. The wide range of stock includes women's dresses up to size 22, sarongs, rash shirts for sun protection, board shorts, gymwear, swimwear, sportswear, Italian sandals up to size 10, accessories, socks and swim goggles. Swimwear is available all year round. There is plenty of parking on the street.