When it comes to making Saturday plans, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Parnell—and we’re not the only ones saying that!
The media has thrown a recent spotlight on some of the best weekend spots that Parnell has to offer, and we’ve collated them all into one Saturday round-up!
Morning—Hit up Auckland's best markets
Every Saturday morning, Parnell is home to two of Auckland’s finest markets.
NZ Herald tested farmers’ markets across Auckland, including a trip to Parnell Farmers’ Market at Jubilee Hall on a Saturday morning.
“The gourmet wonders at Parnell Farmers’ Market have been available to devour every Saturday since 2007. Grab a coffee and peruse the beautiful displays of fruit, vegetables, meat, flowers, bakery goods, deli produce and more. They’re brought to you by the producers themselves, so you can ask all about the provenance of the stocks you’ll no doubt leave with by the basketful.”
Down at Saint Georges Bay Road is another Saturday morning market—Buono Gastro Market. This market brings a slice of Italy to Parnell, and is on Stuff’s itinerary for spending a weekend in Auckland with kids.
“Visitors will find European delights and food products inside the retail deli store, while the open-air market is the spot to pick up produce, pastries and boutique products direct from local stallholders. Mouthwatering goods including doughnuts, organic gelato and wood-fired pizza. Refuel with a fresh coffee and catch some local entertainment.”
Midday—Enjoy lunch at Parnell's newest eatery
Hit Wellington eatery Chaat Street recently opened its hotly-anticipated Auckland restaurant on Parnell Road. It’s received hype from big publications such as Denizen and Broadsheet, and we’re not surprised. Adopting a modern, tapas-style approach to traditional street food, Co-owner and Chef Vaibhav Vishen is proving to Kiwis yet again that flavourful Indian dishes go beyond the dated trope of just another spicy curry, and is serving up mouth-watering dishes in the process.
Afternoon—Explore new worlds at Auckland Museum
Another entry on Stuff’s list of weekend entertainment for children, Auckland Museum is the perfect attraction for all ages.
“Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira is much more than a repository for old bones, although, you’ll currently find two giant T-rex skeletons in the South Atrium – the first time an adult male and female have been displayed together.
Also in the foyer is the interactive light and sound installation Under the Tanoa which is an instant hit with young kids. Sit back with another coffee from the onsite café as they chase projections of wildlife across the carpet.
Elsewhere in the neoclassical building, walk through a full-size Māori meeting house, enter the volcano experience and visit the Weird & Wonderful Discovery Centre to look at oddities in glass jars.”
Evening—Dinner and drinks at an up-market bar
Parnell has no shortage of restaurants and bars to choose from, and there’s a few in particular that make for a special weekend experience.
For a secret speakeasy, Urban List recommends Pineapple on Parnell.
“With its prohibition vibe and piano tunes, this rum bar’s a fine find. And just FYI, your sober driver is going to LOVE their mocktails.”
For a fine dining experience, Denizen has written rave reviews of Faraday Bar’s new omakase menu, created in collaboration with renowned private chef, Anthony Price.
“For those seeking the full experience, we recommend booking at least 24 hours ahead to be able to partake in options like the Temaki Box (allowing you to roll your own sushi), the Nigiri Boat (with tamagoyaki) and the exceptional Hibachi Grilled Scotch Fillet (served with truffle tarragon wagyu-fat-mayo and togarashi kewpie).”
To finish your night, head to Crown Range Lounge for some live music while you enjoy a drink in their ambient courtyard.
