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Travel Guide: Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand's fashion, cafés and
nightlife are miles away from Middle
Earth.
By Sarah Daniel Dolphin
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If you've seen The Lord of the Rings, you're familiar with some of New Zealand's elemental charms: craggy cliffs, glacial lakes and emerald hills. But the country - which is divided into two islands in the southwestern Pacific - is also home to tony restaurants, über-luxe spas and fab shopping. Supermodel Rachel Hunter may spend time in Alberta with Jarret Stoll, her hunky Edmonton Oilers beau, but she's a loyal Kiwi. "My heart is in many places, but I love my home country and am very proud of it," she says. The model also raves about New Zealand fashion. "It's among the most dynamic and progressive in the world."
Auckland
The scene: In 30 minutes, you can go from the centre of New Zealand's largest city to a serene island in the Hauraki Gulf, where posh Aucklanders gather from December to February - New Zealand's summer months. "The vibe is laid-back, relaxed and friendly," says fashion designer Trelise Cooper, who singles out Auckland's thriving café culture as her favourite thing about the city.
Where to stay: At Mollies, a 14-room hilltop hotel, where a mix of 17th-century antiques and steel-and- glass furniture creates a Manhattan-loft feel. Sip champers in the salon while tenor and front-of-house manager Jack Bourke belts out tunes from The Phantom of the Opera.
Where to shop: Head to Newmarket and Parnell Village for the city's best shopping. Celebrated local designers, like Cooper (known for her feminine flounces and luxe silks and satins) and Kate Sylvester (whose trademark is tailored minimalism), have boutiques tucked in between other notable labels, such as veteran Jane Daniels, an inaugural member of the New Zealand Fashion Hall of Fame. Don't miss High Street, located in the heart of the city, for quirky pieces and jewellery from Karen Walker.
Click here to read more about Auckland, New Zealand.
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