Takapuna is your next escape from central Auckland’s concrete jungle. The community bursts with hot spots for you and your family to enjoy this summer.
Whether you’re looking to have a sunny day at the beach, enjoy fresh pastries and coffee, or eager to get your retail fix, Takapuna is a hive of activity, ready to be your new local getaway.
For all the foodies out there, diverse and award-winning eateries are among the hidden gems of Takapuna’s district. Whatever your preferences, vegan, keto, vegetarian, sweet or savoury, international or local, Takapuna’s restaurants and cafés cater to all needs and desires.
If you’re travelling from overseas and don’t have access to a car, considering hiring a vehicle from a company like Go Rentals car rentals in Auckland. They have a fleet of Teslas including Model 3s and Model Ys as well as carbon offsetting options to make sure your trip to Takapuna is a sustainable one.
Try mouth-watering vegan French toast at Mimosa, or stop by Keto Eats for one of their popular Cookie Bites. Maybe get adventurous with the organic shakes at Jam Organic Cafe, or enjoy the variety of possibilities down Eat Street, a neighbourhood of local favourites such as Bird on a Wire, Burger Burger, El Humero, and Poké Poké.
Take a walk down to Takapuna’s beachside, thriving with all kinds of dining opportunities. With the calming sounds of the shore nearby and Rangitoto in your sights, try the tasty sashimi at Tokyo Bay, or get involved in a crowd-pleasing sharing board and cocktails at Franc’s. Regatta awaits with good wine and fresh seafood, and a quick walk up The Strand arrives at Asian Fusion restaurant, Tok Tok whose menu is built for sharing with friends and family. With the sand and water only steps away, Takapuna’s beachside dining is a summer experience worth taking advantage of.
Looking for something sweeter? House of Chocolate will become your new but dangerous best friend with a menu full of mouth-watering desserts. If savoury is up your alley, Centro Cafe’s scones, quiches, and muffins won’t disappoint.
With bottomless brunches, bingo nights, and live performances, The Elephant Wrestler could be your next pit stop for evenings with friends, or join the locals for some banter, quiz nights, and tap beer at the Takapuna Boating Club.
Hurstmere Road is home not just to salivating tastes and flavours of Takapuna, but also a range of chic homeware and clothing stores. The new Spring 2022 collection is a must-see in Ruby; Lululemon is full of must-haves for exercise bunnies, including the first-ever special edition of workout gear in partnership with Movember; and find some of the hottest labels for menswear at Life For Men. Take a quick walk around the corner to explore homewares at Shut The Front Door, and later pick up the newest swimwear from Aktivworx.
Free on Sunday? Check out the amazing homemade, organic, recycled, and crafted goods from locals at the Takapuna Sunday Markets on Anzac Street. If Sunday’s don’t work, be a part of the Sunset Markets down McKenzie Arcade from 4pm-8pm, a perfect social experience on a spring evening.
Takapuna isn’t short on activities either, with something for all the family. Exciting VR experiences and escape rooms await at ThrillZone and Escape HQ, close to Monterey Cinema and Pumphouse Theatre, while a quick drive down the road will take you to the glow in the dark GloPutt Mini Golf. While the kids are getting their energy fix, unwind at local spas such as Ikoi Spa, Relaxology Spa or Caci Clinic, or practise your swing at the Takapuna Driving Range.
Enjoy the promise of summer in Takapuna with friendly locals, authentic foods, chic stores, and exciting entertainment, only a quick drive from across the bridge. With no lockdown or restrictive levels holding us indoors this season, revelling in our freedom with family and friends is more important than ever. Find your leisure in the heart of Takapuna’s community as we welcome a hot and busy summer season ahead!
WORDS— Stephanie Axtens
