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Our guide to the shows you simply must hit in the 2025 NZ International Comedy Festival. 

You’ve made it—the weekend’s here and she’s a vibe.

To help you glow in 2025, we’ve teamed up with the legends at Revlon to bring you a list of the latest and greatest beauty buys, books and fragrances to help you feel your best. 

Your go-to guide for maximising your time on-board.

It's now over a quarter of the way through the year, and that ain't no April Fools. It's also no joke that the first of the school holidays is coming up this month, along with Easter (deep breaths, parents, deep breaths). This means there's a tonne of child-friendly events on the horizon, including some of the most anticipated kids' flicks of 2025 (Snow White and A Minecraft Movie), immersive experiences with animatronic dinosaurs and giant light-up dogs and of course, Easter activities aplenty.

We caught up with the Kiwi sports team of the moment, the Black Ferns, to talk game day routines, mental health and pump-up tunes. 

Auckland is pulling out all the stops this month. Here’s what’s on in Auckland this week, this month, and this year. 

Small in size, big on adventure, indulgence and memories.

For tasty kai with bangin' views, make a beeline for the Auckland Viaduct. 

No matter your budget—from cheap and cheerful to total baller—there’s all manner of top-tier eateries to sink your teeth into.

Roll up, roll up. It’s time for this week’s New Zealand food news. Hot off the press (or should we say, toastie press) are all the tasty tidbits you need to know. 

This is your one-stop money-saving guide to ensure you stay on track with your finances while you study. 

Rotorua is one of the most popular destinations in Aotearoa and for good reason⁠—there’s a helluva lot of awesome things to do there whether you’re into history, hot mud, or adventures to send your adrenaline levels sky high. And there are loads of great places to stay too. 

Walking is one of the best ways to make the most of the City of Sails. So grab some sturdy shoes, make use of the kauri dieback wash stations and get amongst the beautiful coastlines, stunning waterfalls, urban strolls and native bush.

From the Smokefree Rockquest stage to the billboards of Times Square.

Connection through fashion, nude bike shorts and finding your glow.

​If your go-to food hit list is dwindling as you've eaten through your home city, Brisbane's pumping restaurant scene has got you covered.

Thanks to Visit Brisbane, we’ve found some unique wonderful adventures in this thriving city you can have with your lover so you can get planning, pronto.

We’ve rounded up a list of the best Airbnbs in Queenstown to make that dream holiday a reality…

We live for new openings (especially the kind that involves food) and know you do, too. Fortunately, Auckland is the city that just keeps on giving when it comes to new restaurants, bars, cafes and bakeries—we really are a lucky bunch.

Whoever came up with this cunning way of eating cake for breakfast (or any other meal, for that matter), we thank you for your service.

We called on you—our tasteful readers—to give us all the goss on what should be at the top of our list on a trip to Fiji.

If you’re looking to woo someone special, celebrate a milestone or perhaps even pop a special question, our handpicked list of the most romantic restaurants in Auckland has your next date sorted. Food, wine, romantic vibes, views—they’re all here.

At Urban List, we've spent a lot of time thinking about what makes the difference between a good restaurant and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland's very best. 

If there’s one day that can trigger the battle of the high teas it’s Mother’s Day, and this year is no exception.

Easter is upon us and a long weekend of resting and feasting awaits. Take this holiday as a chance to go out to get your wine and dine on because that’s what we’ll be doing!

Sometimes you’ve just had your fill of hotels, motels and Holiday Inns, and you’re yearning for something with a little more… personality. When that mood strikes, it’s all about Airbnb. And if you’re bound for Taupo, you’ll be very pleased to know there are a bunch of great places on offer. 

Ahhh brunch, the perfect blend of breakfast and lunch we just can’t get enough of, which is lucky because the brunch game is strong in Tāmaki Makaurau.

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but why settle for the usual smashed avo when you can take a morning trip around the globe—no passport required?

In our opinion, you can never have too many streaming services, and Apple TV+ is a must-have. Packed with all-star casts and binge-worthy shows, it's the perfect addition to your watchlist.

Whether you’re in the mood for a slow sit-down and sip, or a takeaway coffee to accompany you on your daily errands, from Auckland CBD and Ponsonby/Herne Bay/Grey Lynn/Karangahape Road/Eden Terrace to Newmarket/Mount Eden/Kingsland/Morningside and The North Shore, Urban List has downed a dangerous dosage of caffeine to create the ultimate list of Auckland’s best coffee shops that you’re going to want to bookmark ASAP.

As Kiwis, a love of pies is practically in our DNA. These hearty pastries have been keeping us fuelled for generations and are the perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or even a cheeky brekkie.

Wellington’s breakfast game is strong, just like their coffee.

If you’re anything like us, you know that one of life’s greatest pleasures is trawling through a bookstore to discover your next read.

From boutique to five-star luxury we've scoured town for la crème de la crème, so without further ado, here are the best hotels in Auckland.

Get ready for the sticky fingers, doughy bellies and warm fuzzies, as you eat your way through our list of Auckland’s best cinnamon buns.

It's no secret we love a new opening and if you're reading this, chances are you do, too. As luck would have it, Wellington is packed with tantalizing eats with new eateries. 

As the adage goes, if the zombie apocalypse comes after leg day, the ‘fittest’ will be the first ones to go. That said, when your survival odds rest on your ability to head for the hills (and actually make it there), it makes sense to put the leg work in today.

There’s a reason why Wellington is Aotearoa’s coolest capital. Among the most (and best) flat whites per corner, beach-side brunch spots and breathtaking walks along the windy hills, Te-Whanganui-a-Tara truly has some of the best restaurants in Aotearoa.

Your guide to finding more soul-nourishing moments in 2025.

Turns out The Garden City isn’t just about botanicals—it’s also one helluva foodie scene.

April has arrived in the blink of an eye which means yet another round of school holidays are fast approaching. If you're scrambling for ways to keep the boredom at bay, we've got you. From an eggciting Easter hunt to a dazzling kids' ballet, and a cute as clay workshop, there's a whole lot of kid-approved things to get amongst this month. 

Welcome to the most fabulous corner of the internet—Urban List's destination for the picks of the beauty crop. This month, our fave haircare has a glow up, there's new scents galore, indie brands are having a *moment* and a new immersive beauty space. 

Easter is fast approaching and for the sweet tooths amongst us (me!), this is pleasing news indeed. After all, what other holiday is celebrated by stuffing your face with as much chocolate as humanly possible?

Skip dinner altogether and go straight into a sugar-glazed euphoria.

Seafood lovers listen up! A boujee seafood-inspired restaurant has opened at the new-look Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour Hotel and we can’t contain our excitement. 

Whether payday is a distant memory or you simply don’t want to spend your life savings on a meal, don’t go running for those two-minute noodles just yet. There are plenty of cheap eats in Auckland that are minimal on coin but maximum on deliciousness.

Auckland's a pretty fun place to grow up. Not only do we have world-class beaches on our doorstep and all the usual family-friendly tropes like a zoo, arcades, and a museum, there's also a host of city exclusives like our very own marine reserve to swim around, a Wonka-esque sugar factory to explore and of course, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere (which, btw, kids over 10 can even jump off!).

Pampering yourself doesn’t come much better than a sleek set of nails. 

Tattoos are a universal art form used as a form of self-expression and tribute and as the world’s most tattooed nation, it's no surprise we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a tattoo studio in Auckland.

Queenstown is famous for its jaw-dropping landscapes, and while the Great Walks get all the hype, there are plenty of other incredible trails that deserve a spot on your to-do list.

From anniversaries and honeymoons, to family reunions and birthdays, there’s one special spot that caters for every important milestone—Singapore.

Steeped in culture and brimming with world-class hotels, Michelin-starred street eats, a vibing nightlife and sun-kissed islands, Singapore is worthy of so much more than just a few hours between flights.

Between the gleaming skyscrapers and perfectly manicured gardens lies a paradise for savvy travellers. Let's dive in, shall we? 

Forget the total routine overhaul, in 2025 we're making small changes that stack up to a better year. 

Fear not, breakfast-lover—you’re about to have the ultimate list of the best breakfasts in Auckland right at your fingertips.

One of the side effects of becoming the Editor of Urban List is friends and strangers alike are always sliding into my DMs asking for recs (which I dig, by the way—she loves a flex). So I decided I should really be spilling my secrets here, for all of you, too. 

The warmer weather is here, and that means it’s the season for lavender to bloom. Here are the best farms across New Zealand where you can stroll amongst the fields, take a picture for the gram and pick your own lavender. Hot tip: pop a few flowers into your next glass of champagne.

Chocolate may get most of the attention at Easter, but it isn't the only treat we're coveting once the season for bunnies, eggs and unabashed gluttony rolls round. Yip, that's right fam—we're talking about hot cross buns, or HCBs.

Whether you’re a matcha convert or you’re curious about the vibrant green tea that's taken the world by storm, Tāmaki Makaurau has you sussed. Let's find your perfect match-a. 

Stockholm is sort of an archipelago city. Dozens of islands and little urban peninsulas divided by oceanic canals that freeze solid in mid-winter. Bridges are a big deal here.

One of the best things about Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the fact that writing a list of the best beaches within a region is absolutely possible.

The economy may be in dire straits but your bank account need not be—cheap eats are not a thing of the past. In fact, you can tuck into a lunch that’s quick and healthy for less than twenty bucks, even if you work in Auckland CBD.

We’ve rounded up our go-to picks for that bakery run—whether you’re a sucker for a kiwi classic, a modern Asian sweet, gluten-free sausage roll or a vegan croissant—we’ve got you.

Renowned for serving up the best in spirit-stacked sips, creative mastermind, and a-lister in the bartending scene Alastair Walker is set to hit Ōtautahi to host an epic night of all things shaken and stirred. 

Bank balance not quite as abundant as you were hoping? Assets looking a bit... non-existent? We feel you—it isn't easy getting your finances in check but in this economy it's especially vital. Here's where to start. 

Whether it’s Mother’s Day, a special occasion, or you just want to spoil someone (and yourself), high tea in Auckland is the perfect thing to do, complete with tea and cake (and sometimes a glass of bubbles). Lucky for us, various venues across Auckland are serving up a swanky high tea fit for royalty. Without further ado, here's where to find the best high tea in Auckland.

Though long viewed as a luxury destination—cue over indulgence and splashing of cash—Waiheke is literally awash in great options to have you out and about and enjoying the land in many different ways, all without breaking the bank.

Myland & Co is a day retreat that's definitely worth forking out for. 

Arts and culture capital of Aotearoa, Te Whanganui-a-Tara is packed with an epic lineup of things to do.

Feeling dusty? You poor, you-only-have-yourself-to-blame thing. Lucky for you we live in 2025, where ordering a post-hangover feed to your door is as easy as pie (mmm, pie). With a few clicks of a button you can literally have curry, burgers, shawarma—or a sammie and freshly squeezed juice, if that's more your vibe—delivered to you in your delicate state, within mere minutes.

The North Shore is as much for eating out and drinking, as it is for hitting the beach. If you don't believe us, check out the more than 55 spots we've carefully curated by suburb below, ranging from old-fashioned pubs, bakeries and burger joints to chic wine bars, cafes, and bistros.

If you’re a bit of a tramping fiend, chances are you’ve lowkey got your eye on crossing off all of the New Zealand Great Walks. If you haven’t done the Routeburn yet, it should be high on your list. 

Beer o'clock? We've got you. 

Working from home? Keep things fresh with our essential home office edit. 

Would you climb inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber? We did, and this is what happened.

​Auckland is a mecca for hair salons and when it comes to choosing “the one”, selecting a hairdresser to entrust with your precious locks is a big freakin’ deal.

After a long morning walk and a day spent lounging lakeside, a bar hop chasing the sun seems the next appropriate step.

There’s a lot to love about music festivals in the Aotearoa summer. Racing between stages, dancing like no one’s watching, and snapping up some epic memories. 

We caught up with Hāmiora Bailey, director of Auckland Pride 2025 to pick their brains on the festival and all their favourite spots in the Tāmaki Makaurau. 

Grab your tickets to this free family-friendly event filled with fireworks, local dance and drum performances, lion dancing and beautiful lanterns lighting up the grounds. With over 60 food stalls and lines out the door each year—we’ve rounded up our top food picks while enjoying the sights and lights.

Hello lovers, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so if you haven’t made plans yet, you'd better hustle.

Eat a rainbow this Auckland Pride with eight must-try chromatic dishes from local hospo legends. 

These are the best festivals hitting Aotearoa this summer. 

Renowned for his ability to serve the best Kiwi cuisine, ex-MasterChef New Zealand judge Simon Gault has built his reputation through a love of pushing boundaries and celebrating local ingredients.

Oh, bella Roma. It seems that this ancient land always manages to weave  some sort of magic on its visitors, leaving them desperate to return again and again - and with so many stunning historical monuments and some of the world’s greatest restaurants, it’s not hard to see why.

Here are all the events not to miss at this year's Auckland Pride Festival. 

If there was a recipe for a banging summer in Tāmaki Makaurau, it’d absolutely involve the sea, some good food, a bit of music and a boogie.

Let us hear you say love. Whether it’s your first or your one hundredth date, a little thought goes a long way and a dinner and a movie just ain't it. 

There’s really nothing better than smashing back a good burger. It’s salty, it’s satisfying, and it’s what hungry dreams are made of. However, we all know there are many components that go into making a decent burger. Once you weigh up the bun, the patty, the sauce, and the toppings, it can become a very spirited debate. Which begs the question, who IS slinging the best burgers in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland?

Although we may have reluctantly come to terms with the fact that we don’t possess the golfing prowess of Lydia Ko or Rory McIIroy, it doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy an 18-hole game from time to time.

Sport is basically a religion here in Aotearoa, and meeting your mates to share a drink and yell sports-themed profanities is a rite of passage. And when you can’t make it to a game, there’s no better way to experience nail-biting sport than with a drink in your hand and plenty of people to create the vibe. 

Whether you love getting amongst the arts or prefer to eat your way around town, Ōtautahi’s got something for you. Here are the best events happening in Christchurch in 2025. 

If there’s one genre we can’t get enough of for a binge-session, it’s crime. From gripping detective dramas to chilling serial killer series, these 20 Netflix crime shows will have you hooked.

Kick back and dive into the best Disney+ has to offer in Australia and New Zealand for 2025.

We’ve taken the hard yards out of scoping out the very best massage places in Auckland, so that you can sit back and slip right into a state of bliss. Toodles, tension. 

Sunflower season is short but sweet and while there might not be an abundance of sunflower farms in Aotearoa, there are five magical spots you’ll definitely want to visit.

Make markets your favourite weekend morning ritual and kick on with mates for the night markets too (we're looking at you Auckland Night Markets). We've rounded up a list of all of the best markets across Tāmaki you need to check out. 

20 New Zealand-made gins that will turn your typical G&T on its head.

Pantone has been selecting its Colour of the Year for more than a decade now and in 2025, that honour goes to Mocha Mousse (PANTONE 17-1230). According to the official Pantone website, this is a “warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.”

It's the time of year when we resolve to go harder, to be better, to move faster, and to get stronger—no wait, that might just be Daft Punk. 

There’s no shortage of events and entertainment available in Tāmaki Makaurau from comedy shows and international superstars to theatre, or just a good ol' gig, we’re spoiled for choice. With that in mind, there’s one thing every music lover, theatre enthusiast, art fan, or comedy connoisseur needs: a satisfying pre-show bite.

Not only is yoga good for your body, but it also has amazing benefits for your mind too. In the busyness and craziness of life, taking up yoga is one of the best things you could do for your entire wellbeing.

There's a misconception that pilates is an easy-going style of workout that doesn't require the same strength and effort as traditional gym workouts. Well, we're here to smash that myth once and for all. Pilates isn't just a challenging and effective workout, it's a safe one too. 

The North Shore isn't just about sun, sand, and surf, it's also about beautiful food and drink. As a matter of fact, we reckon some of the city's best restaurants reside on this side of the bridge. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of our most-loved spots on the North Shore for a feed.

We’ve scoured around for the Airbnbs with the prettiest pools in all the land (Auck-land that is) so you can feel like an absolute water baby.

Brimming with vineyards and distilleries, terrific food, forest tracks, beaches and swimming spots, the only thing better than a day trip to Waiheke Island is an overnighter. Here's where to stay. 

We’ve done the research and know the must-visit restaurants in QT, so read on for the best restaurants in Queenstown.

Between scaling Mt Taranaki and hitting the mountain bike tracks around Lake Mangamahoe, surfing up a storm or soaking up the art, you’ll likely work up quite the appetite in New Plymouth. And, luckily, there’s a bunch of local eateries on hand to refuel at. 

Rotorua is a foodie haven, from boujee fine dining to delectable cheap eats spotlighting local and international cuisines.  

Whatever the occasion or vibe, Kirikiriroa Hamilton’s buzzing restaurant scene has it all. Whether you’re after a sophisticated date destination, a culinary journey around the world, or simply on the hunt for some hearty comfort food, Urban List has you covered with a list of the best restaurants in Hamilton.

It’s handy to have a healthy appetite when you try out Invercargill’s restaurants, as down south the portions are generous and don’t skimp on flavour.

A bijou city it may be, but Ōtepoti Dunedin knows how to punch above its weight when it comes to culinary genius per capita.

It's official—Onehunga is one of Auckland's most hip albeit underrated suburbs. Studded with historic buildings and delightful villas, this charming neighbourhood has really amped things up in recent years on the eating-out front, with a host of top-notch bars, restaurants and cafés coming to the fore.

Takapuna is one of our favourite suburbs in all of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Not only is it home to one of the most popular beaches on the North Shore, it also boasts a long list of amazing places to eat and drink.

Blenheim certainly does a good elixir (of the alcoholic variety) but it holds its own on the foodie front too. Forks at the ready, here are the best Blenheim restaurants.

For a night out feeling fancy, a sweet pick-me-up or a tasty bite to get you through your day, Parnell won’t disappoint. Arguably the most stroll-worthy suburb in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, it's packed with restaurants, cafes and bars that know a thing or two about really good kai.

Waiheke Island. A magical getaway, a wine-lover’s paradise, the perfect wedding destination... and a next-level foodie scene. Here are the best and tastiest restaurants on Waiheke Island. 

So you're looking for somewhere to eat in Ōtautahi Christchurch? The Garden City is enough lucky to have so many choice restaurants popping up all over the place that it can be hard to keep track, so let Urban List show you where it's at with our handy alphabetical list.

From Peruvian tacos and schnitzels the size of your face, to perfect coffee and cocktails in bongs (for reals!), this suburb certainly has plenty to eat out on.  

We love Japanese food an awful lot here at the Urban List. And who’s to blame us? From sushi to sashimi to sake, Japanese cuisine delivers deliciousness on all levels.

I scream, you scream... well, you know how it goes. Whether it's fresh and fruity or rich and chocolatey, in a cone, on a stick or in a cup, we just can't get enough of the cold stuff. So without further ado, here's our pick of the coolest (yes, we did just do that) ice cream and gelato shops in Auckland.

A bunch of workshops have popped up all over Auckland with every kind of class imaginable.

Activewear is the holy grail of the wardrobe. 

Piping hot and packed full of flavour, ramen is as good for the soul as it is for the stomach. It's no wonder this drool-worthy dish, which features noodles swimming in a lush savoury broth, topped with goodies like braised or barbecued pork and soft-boiled eggs—is one of Japan's most popular dishes and an absolute fan favourite here in New Zealand.

We've rounded up the best of the best bars, with oldies, newbies and everything in between. No matter the specifics, all of these places have one thing in common: they're a damn fine spot to sink a drink.

We’ve rounded up our top picks of Māori-owned kai pakihi (food businesses) across the motu where you can show your support.

2024 is almost done and dusted. Only one question remains—where will you be when the new year dawns?

From jaw-dropping outback retreats to island escapes, get all swept up in each other’s irresistibleness at one of our top picks for best romantic holidays around Australia. 

Explore Tasmania's most romantic getaways, from cozy retreats with ocean views to luxurious lodges in secluded wilderness areas.

Does your romance feel a little less shiny than you’d like it to be? Maybe life’s so hectic right now that you’re missing out on those magical moments with your special someone. A romantic getaway could be just what you need to reignite the flame and connect at a deeper level than ever before. 

From bubble skirts to 'that' tank, these are the season's pieces to curate a wardrobe for every occasion

‘Fire and ice’ has taken on a new definition this year with contrast therapy becoming the next biggest wellness buzzword as the fitness industry starts to lean into recovery in a massive way.

A rite of passage for many, we’ve got a tonne of descriptors for Gisbone’s Rhythm & Vines festival—namely, good vibes, good tunes and good company. This year we’re adding ‘healthy’ to that list (and we’re as surprised about it as you are). 

As a year ends and a new one dawns it's customary to reflect... So of course at Urban List we jump straight to the food.

Beer—it makes the world a better place and lucky for us hop lovers, Auckland’s craft beer scene is absolutely booming. 

Epic fitness endurance comp, HYROX, is coming to New Zealand in February.

Activewear brand LSKD has just made its Aotearoa debut, opening a brick-and-mortar store in Takapuna which is kind of a big deal (goodbye shipping fees!). We caught up with LSKD ambassador, Lilz, for the lowdown on all the best pieces to add to our wardrobe. 

There’s a very fine balance between spontaneity and organisation when it comes to making summer plans. For trail walks—like all of Aotearoa’s summertime activities—a few notable basics are a must.

Christmas is the season for twinkling lights, merry tunes and prettily wrapped presents under the tree. Oh, and more unapologetically festive treats than you could ever hope to work your way through before Santa comes calling. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of must-try Christmas treats (some naughty, some nice) for you to enjoy this holiday season.

Left your Christmas shopping a bit, shall we say, fashionably late? This gift edit doubles as a gift for future you—each piece is pretty fun in its own right but they’ll also have you sorted for back to school (or uni) when the new year dawns and it’s time to hit the books.

While it’s not hard to find a great beach, Urban List has done a little more exploring to discover these secret gems. 

This epic pop-up is here to help you donate your spare travel cash and win a stack of epic travel prizes. 

If you’re one of those folk who likes adventures but can’t be faffed travelling far and wide for them, Auckland is the best place to live. An outdoor playground lies—quite literally—just beyond our doorstep, waiting for us to explore it. 

Let’s be honest, Mother Nature is one amazing lady. She’s the mastermind behind some of life’s finest things: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, forests…the list goes on. 

We’ve scoped the waterfalls around the city to bring you a list of the best in Auckland. Take a picnic!

We’ve all been there. Dashing into the supermarket in sand-crusted jandals, scanning the wine racks for this evening’s sip, onion soup sachets and cans of reduced cream gripped to your chest. 

Fish and chips. They’re pretty much our national tucker. Here are our picks for the best fish and chips shops in Auckland.

We're proudly (and perhaps a little tipsily) presenting to you the most refreshing cocktails for kicking back with this summer. 

If you’re like us and love a juicy berry punnet or two, then read on to find the best pick-your-own strawberry fields in Tāmaki (and beyond). 

Whether you’re diving into the mad scramble that is Boxing Day sales, after a top-tier refuel mid-beach day, or soothing a deathly hangover on New Year’s Day, don’t waste your calories (and dollaz) on shoddy fare. It’s time to celebrate. Come 2025, it’s a new year and a new you, and that new you deserves to be fueled by the finest kai Auckland has to offer.

As the gateway to the South Island, Ōtautahi Christchurch attracts visitors of all types and it's not hard to see why. Alongside amazing food and drink, the Garden City is blessed with some of the country’s best hotels, and we've put together a list of our faves so you can have an A+ Christchurch getaway whether you're travelling in luxury or you're on a budget.

Having just completed her very first marathon in The Big Apple, Meg Marshall is the young kiwi proving that a casual Friday jog and a bit of initiative can take you a long way. 

There are about 99 reasons to head to Waiheke but no one can deny one of its (very main) alter egos is Wine-heke. Here's how to tackle a wine tasting like a pro. 

Set in the stunning Southern Alps, Rhythm and Alps has got to be one of the best festivals around. This year’s festival comes with an insane lineup including powerhouse Becky Hill, Andy C, and Shapeshifter, who will be celebrating their 25th anniversary. 

Whatever your tipple of choice—we’ve got you. Here are the best bars in Wellington.

Wineries are a field that Waiheke have got down pat and it’d be criminal to leave without visiting one. Here’s a list of the best Waiheke wineries. 

There’s no getting around the fact that The Good Life requires something to live that good life on (aka a planet) but climate anxiety really knocks the dopamine out of a cheeky add to cart. 

To make things easy for you, we’ve created this list of the best places to buy your Christmas tree this year—now you have no reason to procrastinate!

Christmas is indeed the most wonderful time of the year and our fave part of the festivities is decorating the tree. That said, we've searched out the very best Christmas decorations money can buy, and we think you'll be impressed. From pop stars and film characters to pretend treats and treats proper (or at least, baubles filled with them), there's a lot to get excited about.

Black Friday is on the horizon—Friday 29 November, to be exact—and while it’s a froth-worthy occasion for some, it prompts a wave of eye-rolling for others. The Conscious Countdown, however, is, allowing you to snag a bargain from a curation of local businesses that put the planet and people first. 

All I want for Christmas is to spend the day slaving over a hot oven and washing dishes, said nobody ever. Most of us would prefer a delicious meal cooked and cleaned up afterwards by someone else. Which brings us to one of the festive season's greatest blessings—restaurants that kindly open their doors on the 25th of December, especially for our wining and dining pleasure.

To help you tick off your Christmas shopping list and leave you with money in the bank, we’ve put together a Christmas gift guide with a bunch of options for a fiddy dollar note, or less. 

It’s all about choosing brands based on our own values—not just the dollar value of a product.

One thing’s for sure: porteños (those born and bred in Buenos Aires) know how to party, and they tend to be out and about most nights of the week. 

We've found the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in Wellington for 2024, so you can sit back, relax, and scrap the tradition of stressful cooking.

Whether you’re out for a veggie deal, are craving some homemade treats, or just want to support local grassroots creatives, Wellington’s market scene has got you.

Get ready to hit the town.

As the saying goes, you can’t beat Wellington on a good day.

Wellington prides itself on its cafe culture and we’ll be the first to say it’s justified.

Ho, ho, holy snowball. December is nearly here and it's time to get our Christmas party on. Is it just us, or did this year really sneak up on us?

Here are the best events happening in Queenstown in 2025.

Just two and a half hours drive from Tāmaki Makaurau, Rotorua is an easy roadie and for the quintessentially Kiwi experience, you’ve got to go camping. 

If you haven’t camped in Taupō, can you really say you’ve fully experienced it? We'll go ahead and nope that. Here are the best spots for camping in and around Taupō. 

Escape on an island adventure to the majestic yet mysterious, Rakiura Stewart Island. 

Finding a restaurant to eat at in Auckland on Christmas Day isn't always easy (the phrase 'needle in a haystack' springs to mind). Well never fear, 'cos we've done the hard yards for you and found out who's open to play host this year so you can sit back, relax and make merry while someone else does all the work.

Nothing has us feeling more festive than a completely over-the-top display of Christmas lights—this is definitely a case of the more the merrier! Lucky for us Aucklanders, a decent dose of holiday twinkle is never far away.

No, it's not just you—eBikes are everywhere right now.

Summer has officially started which pretty much means three things: ice cream, cocktails and swimming.

Our fine capital is home to some fantastic hotels for all kinds of visitors looking for all kinds of getaways. Whether you’re looking for a staycation in your own city or need to find a place for a cheeky trip away, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington has somewhere for everyone.

We love a good market, especially one with the word 'Christmas' attached! So hop in the car, crank up the Mariah (your secret's safe with us) and head along to one of these incredible Christmas markets coming to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland this holiday season.

Welcome to 2024, where advent calendars are as big of a deal for adults as they are for children, and filled with so much more than cheap choccy. We're talking beauty products, booze, and even treats for in the bedroom (there's a reason Santa has a naughty list).

We love satisfying our food cravings and nabbing a bangin’ food deal at the same time—and what better way than getting a chicken wing fix while also getting more bang for your buck (yes to making savings for the next meal).

From authentic experiences to Japanese patisserie, we’ve scoped out the very best Japanese restaurants in Wellington, so in no particular order, here are the best Japanese joints in town.

Kiwi summers are incomplete without heading out to the wild exploring the beautiful nature the land has to offer. Read on to learn about the five spots in Hamilton to relax this summer. 

Ahhh Raglan, a bohemian jewel in Aotearoa’s crown. While there are plenty of cute accomodation options in and around Raglan, there’s nothing quite like camping so we’ve rounded up the cream of the crop (vegan cream, that is—let's be real).

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 60 km long tramping track that traces the coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, which straddles Tasman Bay and Golden Bay, northwest of Nelson. Here’s everything you need to know to start planning your trip to this gorgeous corner of the top of the south.

It’s getting chilly out there, and while we pile on the layers, we often forget our furry friends need the same care when it comes to keeping warm during winter.

Nothing triggers guilt like the puppy or kitten eyes you get when leaving your pet for work

To give you a taste of lush, effortless hair, this month Shark Beauty is showing off their best range of good hair day promising tools in an exclusive Newmarket pop-up. 

Smattered across four and a bit floors, Westfield Newmarket is Auckland’s only rooftop dining precinct, shopping, eating and playing to take on such luxurious form. Where else can you window shop a designer bag, mid-pedicure, while being an escalator away from a round of rooftop fresh oysters?

Legend has it that at summer’s end or ‘Samhain’—the inspiration behind Halloween traditions—the veil between the world of the living and the underworld is at its thinnest. The dead will walk.

We’ve said it before but we’ll say it again: rooftop bars are the shiz. What’s not to love about sitting sky-high, sipping on a beverage and taking in an epic view? Auckland’s best rooftop bars are dotted across the city and come in all shapes in sizes.

If there’s something New Zealanders know how to appreciate, it’s a well-cooked, tender steak. Coupled with roasted vegetables and a cheeky glass of fine red wine, you can’t go wrong with a simple steak dish.

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is home to some seriously spooky spots. 

Get amped up for the most wonderful time of the year. We’re talkin’ New Zealand’s festival season. Across the country, lads and lasses will be locking in tickets to some of the best festivals our country has to offer, all promising an epic mash-up of beats, vibes and all round good times.

We all deserve a bit of relaxation time now and again, let’s face it. Tired? Needing a pick-me-up? Feel like treating yo'self? 

Dive into Urban List's top picks for the best Italian restaurants in Auckland.

Sick of being a passive bystander in a movie theatre? Perhaps it’s time to become the lead in your own story.

There are some excellent pet-friendly campgrounds scattered around New Zealand that are happy to welcome both you and your furry ones.

So it not your doggo’s first rodeo when it comes to walkies. But there are walkies and then there are walkies, if you catch our drift.

When your doggo’s done the mahi, they ought to get the treats. But not just any treats, your canine’s deserving of only the best. 

We've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a dog in Auckland so you can be part of the solution.

Who loves the salt, sand and sea more than us humans? Our furry best friends of course. That's why we've got to get them out and about at the most dog-friendly beaches in Auckland.

It’s a well-known fact that we here at Urban List love our pooches and so we’ve rounded up some of Auckland’s best dog-friendly parks because—let’s face it—your dog’s already peed on all the trees at your local. So, treat your pup and take them to the best dog parks in Auckland.

The best things in life are furry, so we've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a cat in New Zealand so you can help a kitty in need.

Show your pup some love and reward them for being a good boy or girl at these dog-loving establishments.

Whether it’s a new puppy and kitten or you’re rescuing an older pet from your local adoption centre—the first year of pet ownership can be pretty intense. Read on for some top tips on pet parenthood from our very own team of animal lovers.

It’s not too late to rally the troops, or just yourself, to raise a bit of cashola for this totally worthy and far-too-close-to-home cause.

Explore the stunning Fiordland National Park on an epic three to four-day tramping adventure.

Few things in life come close to the excitement of receiving jewellery. The box, the silky lining, the glamour of it all—nothing compares. Here are a few of our favourite jewellers in Tāmaki Makaurau for you to chase that thrill. 

In this economy, barely anything can top the excitement of free parking. But SkyCity's served us twice over with the holy grail itself, plus an exciting new addition to October and November's epicurean calendar. Enter: Served, two massive months of feasting. 

Battling with guy ropes, losing pegs and trying to figure out where you should even position the damn thing makes tenting not a walk in the park. But never fear—fallouts and deflating air beds will become a thing of the past when you get your glamping pants on. 

Whether you're a margherita purist, a meat lover or into a serious deep-dish, we’ve found the best pizza in Auckland for you to devour. These joints offer fresh, quality ingredients that can make the experience feel almost healthy (almost). 

Grab a spot by the water, dig in to a tasty something and let the City of Sails treat you some next-level hospitality at Auckland’s best waterfront eateries.

The only thing worse than staying in on Sunday is being lumped with the responsibility of having to find a good restaurant that’s open on Sunday night. While usually a thankless task we've scoured all our favourite eateries to put together a list of where to eat in Auckland on a Sunday night. 

You don’t want to be chained to your kitchen island in a booming pre-drinks party. There’s chins to wag, sunrays to soak up, and gossip to catch up on over a round or three.

Venue Veterans is a brand new gig series that'll see iconic New Zealand musicians returning to the venue that ignited their career. We caught up with David Dallas ahead of the launch.

‘Monday-itis’ can be cured by two things: a good meal and a strong beverage.

Forget everything you thought you knew about vegan and vegetarian food. Far from its can-o’-chickpea origins, vegan fare is now unapologetically delicious.

We’ve looked high and low and we’ve scouted the best places to eat if you’re gluten free—because there’s no need to miss out.

It’s time to double-whammy that precious downtime the same way you “write minutes” for meetings that really could’ve been an email. Our trick? Hybrid venues and sleek multi-purpose experiences. Sure, cocktails and burgers are great, but paired with a raging film club or arcade game? That’s where the good stuff's at. 

Enter The Gin Experience aka Urban Botanica’s new choose-your-adventure-style sipping session.  

Juicy, creamy burrata dishes are ripe for the picking in Auckland. Some simple, some jazzed up. Some pocket-sized, some re-imagined as full-size mains. All very, very scrumptious. 

You bring the booze and they’ll take care of the food at any one of these fine Auckland establishments. Read on to discover the best BYO restaurants in Auckland and get ready to eat, drink and be merry!

We’ve tracked down the best all-you-can-eat restaurants for when à la carte just doesn’t cut it. Stretchy pants advised.

Ahhh Karangahape Road. One of the most vibrant, creative, and bangin’ precincts in all of Tāmaki Makaurau.

From creamy kormas and crispy pakora to dry fire-breathing curries and fluffy biryani, here are the best Indian restaurants in Auckland.

Māori Language Week is just around the corner (14-21 Mahuru/September to be exact) and here are 10 ways to celebrate. 

This week, and every week henceforth, we encourage you to go beyond learning how to order your coffee in Māori in exchange for a free brew at work, and do something to create a lasting impact for yourself and te reo Māori.

Jump on the true crime bandwagon, hit play, and start bingeing these must-listen podcasts.

Every route is a scenic route when road tripping through Tasmania, so there’s a lot to get excited about. So pack your bags and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with these 10 stunning road trips to take in Tasmania.

The independent arts festival kicks off from 2-22 September, celebrating the weird and wonderful of Auckland’s art scene, and everything in between.

Calling all snow homies, holiday heroes, music-mad, and just plain festy frothers—epic destination festival, Snow Machine is next week. And. You. Don’t. Want. To. Miss. Out. 

Father’s Day is just around the corner (1 September if you’re wondering) and while not all of us have a father we almost certainly all have someone who’s unabashedly cracked dad jokes with reckless abandon.

Consult any impassioned skincare enthusiast both IRL and on your for you page, and you’ll hear them name-drop Paula’s Choice.

From limited edition beer collabs and linen pants to packable day packs, and an edition outdoor oven, check out our hit list of the best Father's Day gifts to shop this year. 

There's only one thing better than a dumpling and that's a plate of them, along with a generous portion of chilli crisp for dipping. 

Doughnuts are having a moment—and that’s totally fine by us. Whether you like them dusted with sugar, oozing with chocolate custard or stuffed with cream, there’s something for everyone in this doughnut lovin’ city of ours. We’ve rounded up the best places to get the best doughnuts in Auckland. Dough-not delay, try one today.

While Korean food may not be on your radar, it totally should be. If you love big, bold flavours, an abundance of free side-dishes and are all about spice, then you’re going to fall in love with Korean cuisine.