Neat Places recently released their Parnell Christmas Gift Guide for 2022, sharing their top recommendations for Christmas shopping in Parnell. For more Christmas inspiration, check out our Christmas Gift Guide.
If you’re in the market for some thoughtful or unique gifts, Neat Places suggests you take yourself on a trip to Parnell. Lovingly coined as Auckland’s first suburb, Parnell has everything from its famously historic streets and architecture to chic boutiques and new and innovative businesses. Here you will find plenty of Christmas treasures, with everything from sweet stocking fillers to big ticket items that are well-deserving of a prime position under the tree.
237 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
As you walk into The Fantail House you can tell everything here has been selected with intention. Stocking artisan mementos, homewares and gifts, everything in store is 100% NZ made – with the strong ethos of supporting a more sustainable New Zealand steering the business. A browse of the store will uncover gems such as handmade pottery and ceramics, mohair throws and merino scarves, manuka honey skincare, hand-crocheted children’s toys and much more. Their friendly staff are well versed in the gift of giving and will help you find something for everyone on your list – and they can even gift wrap and post internationally for you as well.
251 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
For the art aficionado on your Xmas list head along to Black Door Gallery – a contemporary art gallery specialising in New Zealand art and design housed in an historic Parnell villa. Championing local design, Black Door showcases an array of contemporary paintings, wall art, sculpture and glass from acclaimed artists. Christmastime or not, this iconic gallery is a must-visit spot in Parnell. Pro-tip: you can even purchase a gift voucher so your lucky recipient can pick the piece that speaks to them the most from the gallery’s entire collection or even put it towards a special commission.
263 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
If you’re looking for colour and creativity, head on to Parnell Gallery. Open since 1976, Parnell Gallery celebrates both emerging and established New Zealand artists including painters, sculptors and printmakers. The gallery has monthly exhibitions housed upstairs, while the ground floor is home to a permanent collection of artists. If you’re not based in Auckland, the gallery has an online store and delivery via sleigh can be arranged in time for Christmas.
G01/100 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
For the avid readers, look no further than Lamplight Books – an independent bookstore bang smack in the heart of the bustling Parnell Road. Presenting more as a luxurious library than a store (think sky-high shelving and super classy interiors), Lamplight is the flagbearer for titles that focus on art and culture. Whether you’re looking for something design-focused, fashion-forward Aotearoa-specific, you’ll be sure to enjoy the search. Lamplight is a true haven for both book and art lovers, and is well worth a visit.
Sweet Treats of Parnell
If you have a foodie in your life, we recommend you take a look at some of the tasty treats being created in Parnell. Vaniye is an authentic French patisserie and cake shop serving up delectable delights on the daily. Atelier Shu is an Asian-influenced minimalistic bakery that specialises in exotic Asian flavours presented in beautiful fashion. So whether you need something impressive to take to Christmas day (tiramisu Christmas log anyone?), want to reach a loved one’s heart via their stomach, or want to treat your tum during a busy day’s shopping – Vaniye and Atelier Shu will certainly sort you out.
223 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
Alfresco is the perfect shopping spot to find something for those who love to care for their home or entertain. The business’s ethos is clear – creating beautiful living spaces that bring people together. Created by designer and director Carol Mortimer, Alfresco collaborates with Kiwi and international designers to create the best of the best furniture and accessories. Pieces are designed to last, with timeless treasures such as outdoor furniture featuring sleek and modern lines and gorgeous textures for living rooms and bedrooms. Alfresco is certainly a spot that should be on your Christmas list – whether for a gift to others or simply a gift to self.
Parnell Road is lined with some of the best jewellers in the super city. Orsini showcases handcrafted Italian jewellery, with a focus on exquisite design and intricate craftsmanship, Hartfield’s offers exclusive access to Pasquale Bruni and Chaumet jewellery, and Sutcliffe offers everything from unique antiques to distinctive modern pieces. Whatever your style or budget, a gift from one of these jewellers is sure to impress.
8 George Street, Parnell, Auckland
Corso De’ Fiori is everything class and aesthetic. With a focus on beautiful interiors, Corso De’ Fiori sources homeware, furniture and giftware from around the world – showcasing careful work from luxury brands to undiscovered artisans. Carefully curated objects will please all sorts of shoppers – with everything from seasonal sensory candles and diffusers to bespoke furniture. Armed with a crew of interior stylists, the team will happily help you pick something perfect for that impossible-to-buy-for or special person in your life.
177 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
Birdwoods Gallery is another artistic gem in the crown of Parnell. A must-visit on Parnell Road, Birdwoods flaunts a unique range of New Zealand and African art and craftwork. A walk through the space will uncover sculptures, textiles, collectables, furniture, jewellery and more. It also provides a showroom for Jack Stobart – a prominent New Zealand stone artist.
Christmas Coffee Buzz
Give the gift of quality coffee and caffeine brewing equipment this Christmas. Parnell is home to Red Rabbit Roastery and Espresso Workshop. Both have all the coffee-related gadgets you can think of to give the gift of good coffee making. Also in Parnell is the La Marzocco showroom. Pay them a visit to find out why these machines are rated the best in the world, and maybe take one home as a Christmas gift to yourself.
