4 Creative Ways To Spark Inspiration In Parnell

Parnell’s rich history makes it such an interesting place to discover on foot. From the cusp of Newmarket through to Parnell Rise, you’ll find plenty of colonial character and charm dotted along Parnell Road. On your walking tour, don’t miss a trip to Bishop Selwyn Chapel and Holy Trinity Cathedral. The chapel was designed by local architects Fearon Hay and is an architectural cornerstone of Parnell’s streetscape. 

However, a hop, skip and a jump over to St Georges Bay Road and you’ll think you’ve been transported to New York. With large warehouses, exposed brick, high ceilings and modern touches, the industrial quarter offers a rustic counterpart to the more traditional pockets of Parnell.

When it comes to special spots to eat and drink in Parnell, the list seems endless. Luckily, we’ve written the list for you. For a sure-fire hit of foodie inspo, TALA is the place to go. ’Tala’ means story or tale in Samoan, and dining here is an experience nothing less than an immersive, memorable, modern and innovative take on tradition. Samoan-raised head chef Henry has been passionate about food his entire life and at TALA he endeavours to encapsulate his childhood memories in a refined and elevated way.

If sweet treats are more your thing, be sure to swing by Vaniyé Pâtisserie tucked just back from Parnell Road. From artfully displayed fruit tarts to intricate, indulgent desserts, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Chef Sonia trained in Pairs — whatever you pick from the cabinet, you’ll be treated to a delectable bite of authentic French finery.

Known for its creative vibe, it’s no surprise Parnell is home to an array of Kiwi merchants doing what they do best. Our first stop would be Lamplight Books, an elegant bookstore along the main strip. With a focus on curating art and culture reads, you’ll find a whole section dedicated to the creatives and designers of Parnell. 

When it comes to fashion, Bara will have you lusting after the latest threads. The boutique leans more art gallery vibes than a typical clothing shop and stocks collections from local designers. Speaking of art, you’ll want to get a peek at the stunning Textile Lofts while you’re around. We recommend booking a session with London St Art Club so that you can take in the building’s beauty alongside a glass of wine and a painting class.

A day trip in itself, Auckland Museum and the Domain offer endless pockets of inspiration just waiting to be discovered. Get your nature fix by exploring the surrounding Domain, and don’t miss a trip to the Wintergardens for a ‘Gram-worthy collection of flora and fauna. 

Meanwhile, the Museum boasts a slew of exhibits celebrating art, nature, culture and New Zealand’s history. Some highlights include the natural history galleries as well as the Māori galleries, which are home to more than 1,000 taonga (treasure). They also host visiting local and international exhibits, guided tours and evening talks, so peep what’s on before you visit.