Leading Auckland publications tell us why Parnell is The Space to Be, from endless hospitality options to leading design.
Explore some of our press coverage from 2025.
NZ Entrepeneur, 16 December 2025
From a makeshift lab in a garage in Auckland, a quiet revolution in spirits distillation began taking shape. It started, as many breakthroughs do, with a simple frustration. Mark Eltom, a Canadian-born chemist and founder of deep-tech startup Reactory, was tired of watching his favourite whiskey climb beyond reach in price. Rather than complain he built a machine that could replicate years of barrel ageing in a fraction of the time.
Auckland brain implant start-up Kitea Health has closed an over-subscribed funding round at $13 million, co-founder and chief executive Professor Simon Malpas says. The firm is also on track to begin human trials in the US, following the completion of its first round of human trials, conducted at Auckland Hospital from mid-2024.
Plan ahead: A heavenly location for a Christmas market
Both our Cathedral Christmas Market and Beacons of Light were featured in NZ Herald’s weekend what’s on guide.
Guided by haka expert Michael Steedman, Föenander Galleries presents a unique cultural culmination this December, opening on Friday 5th December. Aptly named Haka, this collaborative exhibition examines the role of our national expression through diverse sculptural practice.
Parnell institution Non Solo Pizza is inviting Aucklanders to embrace La Dolce Vita in true celebratory style. With summer’s arrival comes the return of NSP’s Weekend Long Lunches, bringing together generous dishes, fresh produce, and the convivial spirit of Italy, all enjoyed in a sun-soaked courtyard.
NZ Entrepreneur, 25 November 2025
Based in Parnell’s Outset Ventures in Auckland, deep-tech startup Neocrete has created a breakthrough concrete additive inspired by ancient Roman chemistry. With their low-carbon innovation now gaining traction offshore, one small New Zealand team could hold the key to reducing up to eight percent of the world’s carbon emissions.
Celebrate Christmas Eve in true Italian style at Parnell’s Non Solo Pizza, where a leisurely lunch transforms into a lingering, festive feast. Start your day early, claim your spot in the sun, and indulge in generous platters of family-style favourites in NSP’s convivial courtyard, all paired with a glass or two to toast the season.
Parnell’s festive spirit is set to shine once again as the Cathedral Christmas Market returns to the Holy Trinity Cathedral on Tuesday, December 9. Following a successful debut, this free, family-friendly event will fill the evening with food, music, and Christmas cheer from 5pm. Visitors can browse festive craft stalls curated by the Village Square Trust, featuring handmade gifts and artisanal treasures, while sampling bites and beverages from the Food Truck Collective.
Local or not, there’s always something new to see and do and Auckland, with endless spots vying for your attention. Amongst them, Auckland Museum in Parnell brings New Zealand’s history and culture to life, while the nearby Domain Wintergardens showcase rare plants in grand glasshouses.
Tala, a fine-dining modern Samoan restaurant in Parnell, was yesterday crowned this year’s ultimate winner in Viva’s Top 50 Auckland Restaurants. Jesse delivered the news in person to Tala’s unsuspecting co-owners Henry and Debby Onesemo. Viva arranged the interview under the guise of a new video series talking to Auckland’s top chefs.
Creatives across every discipline are bound by universal themes — such as transformation, memory, and the search for meaning — that transcend style. As Föenander Galleries’ Spring/Summer Edition exhibition arrives, the subtle threads connecting eight distinct New Zealand artists become more apparent. Though each artist’s approach is strikingly different, their work resonates with shared philosophical commonalities.
For those seeking interiors that exude sophistication, Trenzseater has established itself as a leader in New Zealand’s design landscape. Founded by Ben and Hamish Lewis, the company offers a comprehensive interior design service that spans residential and commercial projects, working closely with clients from concept through to completion.
The vibrant art installation Beacons of Light is returning to the newly revitalised Heard Park, Parnell, for this year’s Christmas season.
Restaurant & Cafe, 31 October 2025
Auckland-based chef Henry Onesemo has represented his Samoan culture at the Best Chef Awards in Milan, something he described as a very proud moment. Onesemo is the Co-Owner and Chef of TALA, a Parnell restaurant dedicated to Samoan cuisine.
For over two decades, Sutcliffe Jewellery has been creating showstopping bespoke pieces with such meticulous attention to detail that every glance reveals something new. Under the eye of master craftsman Brent Sutcliffe, a goldsmith whose career spans New Zealand’s finest workshops to London’s elite Hatton Garden, each commission is a marriage of artistry and engineering.
Two Kiwi summer icons are teaming up to make your swims even sweeter—Tip Top is partnering with the historic Parnell Baths to stock the poolside café with frozen treats when it opens for the season this Saturday. Debuting are the new Trumpet Choc Bar and Popsicle Watermelon, plus the return of nostalgic fan favourite Toppa that’ll take you straight back to that one perfect summer long, long ago.
Now available in New Zealand exclusively through Dawson & Co., Kett delivers timeless furniture defined by craft, place, and enduring details.Each piece reflects the character of the environments that inspire it. From rugged coastlines to urban skylines, these references are distilled into furniture that feels grounded, enduring, and deeply considered.
Emma Stanford tries the Fāgogo Journey at Tala. With dish names like fa’apāpā, pisupo and vaisu, she has no idea what’s to come. But she trusts head chef Henry Onesemo, who trained in his home of Samoa and worked under renowned Kiwi chef Michael Meredith. Now acclaimed in his own right, Onesemo’s Tala earned three Hats in the Cuisine Good Food Awards in August.
Tucked away in the heart of Parnell, Non Solo Pizza’s exclusive private room is an intimate enclave that channels Napa Valley’s refined spirit. Designed for groups of 10–20, it embodies relaxed elegance with warm timber detailing, muted lighting, and richly upholstered seating.
When honey experts Sri Govindaraju and Sunil Pinnamaneni co-founded The Experiment Company in late 2019, their goals was to elevate the profile of kānuka honey. Little did they know they’d pivot to address a major challenge in global health and food security. From humble beginnings testing glycoproteins in honey, the biotech startup is now developing a platform that could transform how laboratories worldwide detect and manage antimicrobial resistance.
In the heart of Parnell, Elysian introduces a rare opportunity. Developed with Crosson Architects with interiors by Sarah Foote, the luxury residences sit across five levels, including two sweeping penthouses, setting a new benchmark for apartment living.
Broke Boy Taco, part-owned by Israel Adesanya, is ending its feud with Taco Amaiz after earlier accusing its Mexican chef of mimicking its branding. They now plan to raise spatulas together for a charity cook up in Parnell on October 17.
Believe it or not, the apps aren’t the only places to find romance in the 2020s. Auckland Museum is hosting its uber-popular Mingle at the Museum next week and it’s the perfect opportunity for you to meet someone the old-fashioned way: in the wild.
Auckland Council, 3 October 2025
The Auckland Mayor is celebrating another win for sports in Auckland following the announcement of $5 million worth of government funding for upgrades at the Manuka Doctor Tennis Arena in Parnell.
Whether you’re marking a personal milestone or choosing a meaningful gift, art is a worthy investment. Here, gallerist Elle Föenander shares her advice on artists that resonate through different life stages.
Kelly Bennett, founder and CEO of One Plus One Communications, has had a standout year. Under his leadership, One Plus One took home the Large PR Agency of the Year at the PRINZ awards for the third consecutive year. The agency also won Boutique Agency of the Year at the PR Awards Asia Pacific for the first time.
There’s a low-key eatery slowly and quietly becoming one of the top spots to find a true taste of Mexico in Auckland. Taco Amaiz, in the heart of Parnell at 269, is a taqueria centred on good, hearty, authentic Mexican cuisine—no frills, just delicious, quality food.
Auckland For Kids, September 2025
Here is our hand picked guide for two bright weeks in Auckland, including the new playground opening in Heard Park in the heart of Parnell.
Parnell recently gained a sweet new dining destination in Éclair Studio, a boutique pâtisserie where pastries are treated less like desserts and more like works of art.
The celebrated restaurant Tala shares priceless stories of Samoan food and culture through an intimate dining experience. Chef-owner Henry Onesemo chats about this special set menu – showcasing childhood favourites to his take on the country’s obsession with corned beef – available for just $110 thanks to Mastercard.
Continuing their long-standing tradition of championing the country’s most exceptional eateries, we are proud
to unveil Denizen’s Best of 2025, an expert-curated list showcasing the best restaurants across New Zealand. Featuring Cibo, Non Solo Pizza, and Rhu.
The Spinoff rounds up the markets that run weekly or fortnightly: the neighbourhood farmers and flea markets of Tāmaki Makaurau, including Parnell Farmers’ Market.
Dan Shanan, co-founder of Doc Edge Film Festival, has shared some of his favourite Auckland places, including Aula’s Kitchen for dining with friends.
Awards have been dished out to the country’s top restaurants and chefs, at the Cuisine Food Awards. Samoan restaurant Tala in Parnell Auckland has achieved a three hat rating. Owner Henry Onesemo spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Sarah Hutchings is a jewellery designer who fell in love so much with the handmade aesthetics of Italian jewellery she opened a “cupboard” store in Auckland 17 years ago, selling artisan Italian pieces, before eventually designing her own at Orsini.
The Petits cakes from Vaniyé Patisserie are listed among Metro’s Top 50 Baked goods in Auckland. Even those lacking a sweet tooth will be charmed by the many single-portion sugary masterpieces that beam from behind the counter at this patisserie.
Numerous Italian eateries have come and gone, but there are a few that have secured their place in our competitive restaurant scene—including Parnell icon Non Solo Pizza.
As Ensemble turns five, they check in with some other businesses that were founded during 2020, including Hana Spa.
Together Journal, 12 August 2025
If you’re a style-conscious couple planning your big day, allow us to let you in on a little secret: Parnell, Auckland’s oldest suburb, is quietly becoming the place to source fashion-forward wedding fits and finds. With its elegant charm, creative energy, and a discerning collective of boutiques reshaping bridal fashion, jewellery and design, this leafy inner-city neighbourhood is fast establishing itself as a must-visit destination for couples with refined taste.
Rhu’s Honey Toast was rated one of the Top Baked Goods in Auckland by Metro. It’s a textural revelation, in which a brittle outer shell gives way to the squishy chew of the milk bread within.
Auckland Museum’s Diva exhibition, which has crossed the globe from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, is a must-see for anyone interested in fashion, women in history, Hollywood icons and/or entertainment. Featuring iconic garments and ephemera that relate to divas of the past and present, visitors wear headphones and as they move through the exhibition audio plays automatically.
Ernst & Young New Zealand has announced the 19 finalists for the 2025 EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards, spotlighting a diverse group of business leaders nominated for solving complex problems with future-focused solutions. Parnell-based finalists include Kami, and Daisy Lab, Kitea Health and Mint Innovation (from Outset Ventures).
Savor Festival is back for another unforgettable season of tantalising events that are sure to tempt the taste buds, including two months of events and specials at Non Solo Pizza.
The Business of Tech, 31 July 2025
In the latest episode of The Business of Tech, Zarina from Neocrete sits down for an in-depth interview about how her New Zealand startup is tackling one of the world’s most stubborn climate problems: cement, the glue in concrete, is responsible for around 8% of global CO2 emissions.
Javiera Vergara, a barista at Red Rabbit cafe in Parnell, won this year’s national Aeropress tournament in Wellington. She will now fly New Zealand’s flag at the World Aeropress Championships at Seoul in December.
On tour from London’s famed V&A, the DIVA exhibition at Auckland Museum explores the evolution of the diva, from operatic idols to camp superstars and today’s ‘divapreneurs’, through music, performance and fabulous fashion.
For those who like their pre-dinner ritual local, Parnell’s Non Solo Pizza presents a transformative journey where the Aperol flows, the Neapolitan-style pizzas are on point, and the energy rivals that of Capri in July.
A favourite amongst city-dwellers, Hello Mister is a local take on Vietnamese with a particular focus on fresh, fast, and insanely tasty grab-and-go fare, and the concise menu has been crafted with this in mind. The perfect spot for a light weekday lunch, Hello Mister is firmly on our radar.
If you’re craving something new and inspiring for your walls, consider work from these exciting up-and-coming artists making waves across the city’s vibrant art scene. Featured artists include Andrea Bolima, Vishmi Helaratne and Jess Swney, represented by Föenander Galleries; Peter Collis and Cruz Jimenez, represented by Black Door Gallery; and Elliot Love, represented by Parnell Gallery;
In this list of eateries grabbing the attention of gourmet travellers, Tala has been deemed “one of the most exciting restaurants in the southern hemisphere today”.
Elton John’s 50th birthday suit, Janelle Monáe’s “vagina pants” and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa’s “Millennium Coat” are among the hundreds of splendid costumes on display at Auckland Museum‘s new DIVA exhibition.
Tommy Hope is the new head chef at Tala, New Zealand’s first modern Samoan restaurant, opened in 2023 by chef Henry Onesemo and his wife Debby in Parnell.
Whether it’s taming, tinting or a total transformation, from affordable upkeep to trendy treatments, Urban List’s updated guide to the best eyebrow services in Auckland has it covered—including Amanda Guerin Brow Artistry and End0ta.
As we find ourselves beginning to crave warmer and lighter days, a calendar packed with cultural events is keeping us excited for the second month of winter. This guide includes Echo Bravo, the current exhibition on display at Foenander Gallery.
After a disastrous, asbestos–ridden few weeks, the Auckland Museum has reopened its doors with style. Today marks the opening of the new Diva exhibition from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.
There are a number of eateries around Auckland that offer the kinds of environments and menus that the whole family can enjoy, including TwoFold and Non Solo Pizza.
In this edition of Society Insider, NZ Opera opened their winter season of La bohème, and Label House by Soni Sandhu rolled out the red carpet for an exclusive showcase of its Winter 2025 Collection.
Four Parnell eateries—Rhu, Tala, Cibo, and Gerome—have their most iconic dishes represented in this year’s Iconic Auckland Eats promotion.
Who knew that the world’s only artificial gut manufacturer was based in Parnell? Garth Sutherland is CEO at The Insides Company and tells Perlina Lau all about prosthetic intestines.
Hospitality Business, 13 June 2025
Award-winning contemporary Samoan restaurant TALA has launched a new menu crafted by Executive Chef/Co-Owner Henry Onesemo, and appointed Tommy Hope as new Head Chef.
With mid-year group gatherings high on the agenda, Denizen has got you covered with their extensive guide to the best private dining rooms to book now, including Non Solo Pizza.
Picture this: It’s Friday evening, the sun has just set. In your wing mirror: work and all the worries of the week. Ahead of you: two hours of an intentful, crystal-tea-warmth-energy-infused night of calmly lit quiet connection. Yup, ChaBliss is hosting a crystal bracelet workshop and I’m already feeling blissed out.
NZ Opera tenor Chris McCrae shares his favourite spots in Auckland, including Parnell favourites Winona Forever, the Domain Wintergarden, and Blue Hills Books.
Within the heart of Parnell, Non Solo Pizza has unveiled the To Kalon Room—an elegant new private dining space inspired by one of Napa Valley’s most revered vineyards. Named for the famed Grand Cru site and shaped by the legacy of Robert Mondavi, the room pays homage to California’s winemaking heritage while staying true to Non Solo’s Italian soul.
What does it take to start a tech company with global impact like a Rocket Lab or a LanzaTech?
Outset Ventures has just closed its second fund, announcing today it’s raised $41 million.
The company is run out of a warehouse in Auckland, credited as the birthplace of Rocket Lab. The Government’s Elevate fund has tipped in $15 million.
Outset Ventures—which numbers Sir Peter Beck on its investment committee—has raised $41.5 million for its second venture capital fund, including $15m chipped in from the Crown-backed Elevate funds.
In this fortnightly series, Viva’s resident dining-out editor shares advice on where and what to eat. If you want something new and special, you should go to Tala, a sacred restaurant space in Parnell, where chef Henry Onesemo creates dishes inspired by memories of Samoa. The service team are exceptional and this is real event dining.
Mark Eltom, founder of Reactory (located in Outset Ventures), talks to Tom Raynel about building distilling technology in his basement, and how his technology impressed some of the industry’s biggest players.
The symbolic release of Deborah Kelland’s monarch butterflies will mark an emotional milestone for the former boutique real estate high-flyer, whose exhibition The Sacred Journey: A Flight for Life opens at Little Rosie Cafe on May 15.
May continues to be awash with arts and cultural events that endeavour to entice you off your couch and out of your warm cosy whare, including NZ Opera‘s Open Day at their Parnell headquarters.
Take Mum to this heavenly wellness space for an indulgent massage and sauna treatment. Available at Hana Parnell across two weekends, May 9-11 and May 16-18, this special Mother’s Day treatment is a curated experience designed for deep restoration, connection and nourishment. It begins with a 45-minute private infrared sauna, followed by a 60-minute full body massage.
Congratulations to the magnificent women who were recognised for their valuable contributions at the Women In Food & Drink Aotearoa New Zealand Awards 2025, including Catherine Bell from Epicure Trading.
Around ngā mōtu there is art, film, comedy and literature—including ‘Ngā Hau e Whā/The Four Winds’ exhibition at Foenander Gallery.
Restaurant & Cafe, 29 April 2025
Epicure has unveiled a new ultra stylish buffet system, created for restaurants, cafes, conference and event venues, caterers and hotels.
The Lifestyle Awards is a curated shortlist of the Remix community’s favourite people, places and products, and both Hana and 269 Parnell are category finalists.
This year, whether you plan to attend a service locally or pay your respects in other ways, there are a number of events around the city to choose from, including services and events at Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Every year on April 25, the country pauses to honour the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served and sacrificed in times of war. One of the most significant ANZAC events in Auckland is the dawn service at Auckland Museum.
Mia Bennett searches out the top flavours of France right here in New Zealand, and what better way to truly immerse yourself in a great culture than to get involved in a cooking class? If learning the art behind the elegance interests you, Vaniyé Patisserie offers dessert and baking classes taught by Sonia Haumonté.
Cornelia has a Parnell Rd address but is actually at the end of a dark side street: you could walk the whole strip while dying of thirst and never know it was here. As such, when you finally do step through the front door and into this bright and friendly space, it feels as though you’ve stumbled upon something special, writes Jesse Mulligan.
Here’s a list of some of the cafes, restaurants and bars that’ll be open in Auckland this Easter weekend, including Biskit, Tuitui Bistro & Cafe, Young Dandy, Tala, Urban Vibes, and WAR Pacific Island Fusion.
Justyna White, Operations Manager at Non Solo Pizza, shares her hospitality predictions for 2025. “Shared plates go beyond a trend—they bring people together, and no one does it better than the Italians, or NSP.”
Auckland based entrepreneur and managing director of LyLo Tim Alpe shares his favourite Auckland spots, including Bandung, Catch a Fish, and Parnell Farmers Market.
Here, Denizen present our guide to the best of the best hot cross buns, including something for every taste preference—with both Pandoro and Vaniye Patisserie making this list.
Is the soft-serve frozen yoghurt shop making a comeback? In Parnell, at least, yes. Frozen Yo has just opened on Parnell Rd with all the self-serve frozen yoghurt machines and customisable toppings you need to mentally transport yourself back to the heady days of the early 2010s.
Sydney-based food and travel write Alex Carlton gives a shout-out to Tala and its head chef, Henry Onesemo.
Last Friday, in honour of International Women’s Day, Non Solo Pizza in Parnell had the perfect setting for Orsini Fine Jewellery‘s celebratory luncheon honouring women and their achievements.
From foodies for foodies—this is a list of Dish readers’ favourite cafes across the country, including Parnell’s rising star Young Dandy.
Interactive light sculptures, art installations, and creative events will converge on Thursday 6 March from 5pm for Rediscover Parnell Village—a one-night-only experience that will show you the heart of Parnell in a new light
In this edition of Travel Alerts, NZ Herald spotlights our upcoming event, Rediscover Parnell Village.
With some help from readers, The Spinoff compilation of the best outdoor pools this country has to offer. Ranked among them are the iconic Parnell Baths.
Looking for a great brunch spot in Auckland? Viva recommends Rhu, a space where people can enjoy well-crafted food and drinks throughout the day.
Denizen has matched Auckland’s best fish and chip purveyors with the most scenic spots around town to devour them, including Catch a Fish Takeaways to be enjoyed at the Rose Gardens or Judges Bay.
