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Rediscovering Thorndon Quay: Where History Meets Modern Design

Steeped in history and creativity, Wellington's Thorndon Quay boasts a unique blend of old and new – with a rich mix of contemporary design, heritage buildings, cosy eateries and eclectic boutiques ready to welcome you in.

Gift Guide 2024: Neat Gifts from Neat Places in Aotearoa

Books and homewares on shelf at Crushes in Auckland

Don’t ask how, but we’ve officially entered the Christmas countdown. Michael Bublé is blasting in aisle 4, your Type A sister has already assigned everyone their Christmas lunch tasks, and everyone's dropping not-so-subtle gift hints left, right and centre. If the thought of gift shopping sends you spiralling, take a deep breath – we’ve got you.

The Heart of Thorndon Quay: Four Traders Who Have Stood the Test of Time

A woman leaning on a couch.
Wellington

A walk down Thorndon Quay is a quick reminder of the strength, resilience and creativity of Wellington’s business community. Even as challenges have reshaped the area, a collection of beloved local businesses remain as an enduring anchor of the community. From handcrafted furniture and authentic French cuisine to vibrant textiles and personalised hairstyling, these enduring traders reflect the heart of the Quay – inviting visitors to explore, enjoy, and support the places that have long been part of its fabric.

Toast the Season: Festive Hospitality Hotspots in Parnell

A man making a cocktail at a bar.
Auckland

As the year rapidly draws to a close, local businesses are gearing up to celebrate the festive season in a multitude of creative ways. Parnell's diverse hospitality scene is no exception, with many cafes, restaurants, and bars refreshing their menus and offering private spaces for holiday gatherings. This, combined with the inherent charm of the neighbourhood, makes Parnell the perfect destination to embrace the magic of the silly season.

Meet and Greet: Barkeepers of St Asaph Block

A group of people posing for the camera behind a bar.
Christchurch & Canterbury
 On any given week, St Asaph Street comes alive with fun and creative happenings, drawing a lively buzz to the neighbourhood. This area between Fitzgerald Ave and Barbadoes Street has earned itself a reputation for its inclusive and down-to-earth bar and nightlife scene, where local musicians and artists take centre stage. From sharing how they started out to revealing their hopes for Ōtautahi Christchurch’s future, here’s what Feather from Darkroom, Megan and Richard from Space Academy, and Lois from Scoundrel had to say.

We celebrate the neat restaurants, cafes, shops, and galleries around New Zealand. Whether you're a local or visiting you'll find something on Neat Places to tickle your fancy.

New and Notable

Restaurant O.G.B

View of Restaurant O.G.B
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

If you’re searching for a taste of London cool meets Mediterranean vibes in the heart of Christchurch city, Restaurant O.G.B is the answer.

Dhi Ferrari Cakes

Cakes in the cabinet at Dhi Ferrari.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury

If a craving for something sweet strikes and you’re near The Welder in Christchurch’s city centre, you must immediately seek out Dhi Ferrari Cakes.

Vesuvio

The courtyard at Vesuvio.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

Walking or driving down an ever-busy Papanui Road in Christchurch, you might be surprised that a sophisticated slice of Europe can be found only metres away at Vesuvio.

Trees for Canterbury

Wide view of Trees for Canterbury.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Goods key icon.

Located down a quiet suburban street in Christchurch’s Ferrymead you will find a hidden gem called Trees for Canterbury, a native plant nursery, garden centre and...

Jolly Deli

Customer holding a Jolly Deli sandwich.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon.

Jolly Deli on Christchurch’s Tuam Street sees two of the city’s food scene stars join forces to serve up some of the best sammies around the ‘03.

Silenzio Pottery

Close up of Silenzio Pottery's Andrew Killick
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki

Clay has been used as a medium to craft pottery since prehistoric times, yet its novelty hasn’t worn off – arguably, the allure of a handcrafted ceramic holds...

Art on Thames

Shop with an eclectic selection of colourful artwork on the wall including a series of liquorice allsorts works
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki

If happiness was a shop, it would look like this one. Founded by Philina Den Dulk, Art on Thames is a celebration of beautiful things designed and made in Aotearoa.

Wicksey Studio & Gallery

Close up of small art prints featuring a nostalgic elephant slide and fish and chip shop
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki
Galleries and museum key icon.

If you’ve explored Ōamaru and the wider Waitaki region, you’ve probably already been stopped in your tracks by the work of Matthew Wicks (aka Wicksey), long...

Stories

Insider’s Guide to Christchurch’s St Asaph Block

The exterior of Space Academy Christchurch.
Located on the South-East edge of Christchurch’s Central City, the St Asaph Street block exudes a cool grittiness that’s hard to imitate. While this one-way stretch runs right through the city and ends at Hagley Park, it’s the laid-back mixed-use zone between Fitzgerald Ave and Barbadoes Street that defines this street’s unique character. From music venues and community events to art spaces, low-key bars, and a great coffee roastery, here are 10 reasons why this St Asaph Street block should never be overlooked.

Courtenay Creatives: The Best of Art, Style and Design in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct

Homewares on display at Kura Wellington.
Wellington

From tucked-away galleries to quirky boutiques, Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct is brimming with creativity. Whether you’re looking for original artwork, vintage oddities, or avant-garde fashion, there’s plenty to explore in this rich part of the capital city.

7 Fresh New Finds in Hastings & Havelock North

Hastings

The more, the merrier – a sentiment that couldn’t be more fitting when it comes to the wave of new independent businesses opening in Hastings and Havelock North. The last couple of years certainly haven’t been without their challenges, but that hasn’t stopped talented locals from diving into exciting new ventures, bringing fresh energy and creativity to the neighbourhood. Whether you’re after flowers or fashion, croissants or ceviche, here are seven new faces to meet next time you’re in the sunny Hawke’s Bay region.

Dine off the Beaten Path in Hastings & Havelock North

A container cafe nestled into a green grassy knoll.
Hastings

If you’re craving a destination with a delicious reward, here are eight of our favourite “off the beaten path” spots to explore with an appetite.

9 International Food Destinations in Hastings & Havelock North

A woman holding chopsticks.
Hastings

Here are nine of our favourite local eateries that will take you on a delicious trip around the world. No passport required – but remember to pack your appetite.

12 Hour City Itineraries