Shhh, We've Discovered New Zealand’s Best Hidden Laneways

Situated above Customs Street East, Fort Lane is home to downtown’s most drool-worthy destinations. With the neon art installations lighting up the sky, it's the perfect way to kick off a night out in Auckland. Whisky lovers will want to stop by The Jefferson for an impressive tasting session, while those looking to throw down should head to Roxy Nightclub for good vibes and tunes.

If that’s not enough, you’ll also stumble upon Snickel Lane—a New York-style food court connecting up with Commerce Street. Yes, it’s a laneway within a laneway; lane-ception if you like. Expect a wine and mezcal bar, a damn good flat white and vegan burgers galore. Our taste buds are so ready.

Newmarket has caught a lot of attention lately for the arrival of the next-level Westfield mall. But if you want a taste of the OG town, take a stroll down Osborne Lane. It's a serious NYC vibe, with tree-lined streets, brick buildings and cobbled pavers. Drop your cash at local boutiques like twenty-seven names, I Love Ugly and Zoe & Morgan jewellers. It’s okay, we won’t judge.

Get your food fix at The Candy Shop. Whether it’s the iconic croffles (croissant waffles) or omurice, you can fuel up breakfast through to dinner. But whatever you do, just be sure to leave room for a scoop of Duck Island from around the corner. Because you need to try Fairy Bread ice cream at least once in your life.

Hamilton East's Lovegrove Lane is a one-stop-shop for all things good for your soul. Known for its colourful murals, lush greenery and relaxed local vendors, we're all about the wholesome vibes here.

This collection of quaint shops sums up the perfect morning in our books: sunrise yoga at Sun Salute Yoga Centre followed by a coffee at Space Cadet. While you're there, wander around The Flower Crate and Framing House for some cosy interiors inspiration. 

Fact: after visiting Riverbank Lane you may never want to leave. Honestly, this place has it all: a café, a bar, a hairdresser, sustainable shopping, and more. You’ll enjoy eating yourself silly at Café Kopi, Banh Mi Caphe and Mr. Pickles, and on the retail front, you can peruse second-hand books at Browsers or discover some stylish homewares at Found.

Riverside Lanes is right next to Riverside Market, and boasts an impressive lineup of boutiques, bars and restaurants. With more than 30 eateries to choose from, foodies are spoiled for choice. Stop by Dimitri's stall for the best souvlakis in town, get a slice of chocolate heaven at Badass Brownies or sip a local pint at Kaiser Brew Garden.

Walk off your food coma and check out the independent boutiques lining the streets. From curated homewares to fashion to New Zealand's oldest rock and crystal store, you can easily wile away an afternoon here.

Come hungry, they said. It will be delicious, they said. Well, ‘they’ were right. Dubbed the most drool-worthy laneway in New Zealand, the mandate is simple: wear stretchy pants.

Italian purists will be wrapped to discover Pizza Pomodoro, a hole-in-the-wall pizzeria serving classic Neapolitan-style slices. Mr Go’s is a bright and delicious mix of East meets West and each dish on their menu packs punchy flavour and texture. But we know you’re really here for the sweets, so don’t miss grabbing a hot chocolate or loaded iced drink at Wellington Chocolate Factory.

When it comes to small-town style, Wānaka is a cut above the rest. Enter: The Precinct, an architecturally designed retail concept that is positioned as the antidote to malls. This old police station turned outdoor haven is home to independent retailers doing what they do best.

Food-wise, try Kamino for a sun-soaked coffee spot and Paloma for terrific tacos and cocktails. Ukiyo Salon has your back for a fresh cut, DEVàl will deck you out in the latest threads, and swing by Revology Concept Store & Tea House, a unique space to enjoy a hot cuppa and explore mindful living. And don't forget to head up to the rooftop garden for one of the best views in this picturesque town.