Billiard table back on the rebound - by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga

An old but not so familiar friend has returned to Highwic, the historic Newmarket mansion cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

A full-size 12-foot by six-foot billiard table which once belonged to the original owner and builder of Highwic, Alfred Buckland, has been returned to its original location in Highwic’s Billiard House.

It has been over 40 years since the table last graced the heritage property.

“For years we’ve had to explain to people that there was once, in years gone by, an actual billiard table in Highwic’s Billiard House,” says Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Property Lead Auckland Elton Fraser.

“Now people can see the table for themselves.”

The table, cues, scoreboard and cue rack – all original – were removed from the house by descendants of Alfred Buckland when Highwic was sold to Auckland City Council and the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (now Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga) in 1977.

Highwic Billiard Table
Highwic’s billiard table has returned to the Billiard House after over 40 years. Photo by Guy Quartermain.

The table and associated items eventually ended up with descendant Graham Roy who passed away in 2022, and were subsequently purchased privately with funds from the Hudson Bequest. The bequest was set up in 1991 following the death of another Buckland descendant, Mrs Doris Mary Hudson, who had allocated money to be used for special projects relating to Highwic.

Built by Alcock and Co in Melbourne betwen 1860 and 1890, the table has a registration mark recording it as number 922 and is known as a Canted Leg Model. Alcock and Co is still making billiard tables today.

“The billiard table was possibly acquired by the Buckland family as early as 1884 when the billiard house was extended,” says Elton.

“Prior to this the billiard house was much smaller and possibly used by Alfred Buckland as an office.”

The billiards scoreboard was hung in its original location above the Billiard House fireplace last year. Restoration of missing and damaged parts of the table were carried out by another veteran company, Barton McGill – a New Zealand firm that has been in the blilliard table business since 1892. The table was unveiled in March 2024.

It seems that playing billiards was very much a Buckland family pastime with a number of the historic cues engraved with the initials of family members including Malcolm Buckland, Alfred Buckland and one with the letters ‘MJ’ – for Matilda Jane Buckland.

At times the billiard table was used for non-sporting purposes – with one occasion being particularly memorable.

“Family history records that after Alfred Buckland died in June 1903, his coffin was placed on the billiard table so that those wishing to pay their condolences could do so without disturbing the family in the house nearby,” says Elton.

“A number of accounts suggest that many people from Auckland and further afield came to see Alfred prior to his funeral at St Marks church in Remuera. It is this story that may have given rise to some people referring to the Billiard House as the ‘chapel’.”

Although the billiard table has been fully restored and is in excellent condition for its age, there are no current plans for people to use it.

“Although the billiard table seems fairly robust, it is also a historic artefact which needs to be cared for appropriately,” says Elton.

“Visitors to Highwic are now able to enjoy the Billiard House much as it was when Alfred Buckland was alive – but unfortunately they won’t be able to pick up a cue and play a few frames!”

For more on Newmarket's history, click here.

It's not too late to sneak in some easter baking, whether you are heading away this long weekend, or planning a stay-cation, its a great opportunity to indulge in a little treat (or two).

This recipe from combines our favourite things; Rich chocolate brownie, decadent KitKat Chunky Cookie Dough bars, and smooth creamy peanut butter and is the perfect way to celebrate the return of KitKat Chunky Cookie dough to our shelves!

The KitKat Cookie Dough range will be available at New World and Countdown Newmarket, in two sizes, KitKat Chunky Cookie Dough (52g, RRP$2.20) & KitKat Cookie Dough Block (170gg, RRP$4.40).

Cookie Dough Peanut Butter Brownie

KitKat Chunky Cookie Dough Brownie


Serves 12 | Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C fan bake. Line a square or rectangular cake tin with baking
    paper.
  2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric beater or mixer until light
    and fluffy. Add the eggs, then beat well to combine.
  3. Fold in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt until the batter is
    smooth, then fold in the chopped KitKat Cookie Dough; keeping a handful of pieces for
    the topping.
  4. Pour the batter into the lined tin and spread evenly across the tin. Dollop pockets of
    peanut butter across the top of the brownie, then use a skewer to marble into the
    brownie batter. Scatter the reserved KitKat pieces over the top, along with the chopped
    peanuts.
  5. Bake the brownie for 45 minutes, or until the center still has a slight wobble and the
    edges have set.
  6. Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 30 minutes or until firm enough to lift from
    the tin, then place on a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing into 12 pieces.
    Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

For more recipes, foodie news and places to dine, click here.

Leading fine jewellery retailer, Michael Hill Jewellers have announced the launch of their gold recycling program into New Zealand as part of their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals and sustainability commitment, whilst aligning to the rise and adoption of a circular economy.

 Michael Hill’s gold recycling program, titled “Re:cycle”, is the first phase of the company’s new sustainable jewellery ecosystem, which focuses on the renewal and circularity of existing precious metals and products. Due to the inherent nature of precious jewellery materials, precious metals used to craft jewellery can be refined and recycled repeatedly, without losing their value or purity. 

 The jeweller is encouraging Kiwis to give “new life to their old loves”, by recycling any broken, old or no longer worn gold jewellery pieces in exchange for its value* on a Michael Hill gift card, to purchase a new piece online or instore. 

Michael Hill Gold Necklace

To enable this jewellery circularity program, Michael Hill continues to evolve its long-term partnership with Morris & Watson, a fourth-generation family-owned precious metal services company. The gold from each piece of jewellery sent in will be recycled, through a rigorous refining process, ready to be reused and crafted into something new, lessening the need to source new, virgin material. 

To get involved in the gold recycling program, customers can either choose to pick up a free Re:cycle kit from any Michael Hill store or order it online via Michael Hill’s dedicated gold recycling website. 

When ready with their gold, customers can visit the website to enter their details and photos of the items in exchange for a postage label. Once the gold pieces are sent to Michael Hill’s support office, they are assessed and valued by Michael Hill’s experts, with customers offered a Michael Hill gift card in exchange. 

We've rounded up a few of our favourite pieces from Michael Hill as inspiration to recycle any unworn gold, and find yourself a new treasure to love.

Paperclip Bracelet in 10kt Yellow Gold.
Diamond Star Accent Narrow Signet Ring
Engravable Beaded Disc Pendant.
Pear Shape Cubic Ziconia Drop Stud Earrings.
Men's Silver Curb Bracelet with Black Diamonds.

For more information on the Michael Hill Re:cycle program, click here. Or visit Michael Hill Newmarket located on the ground floor of Westfield Newmarket, 309 Broadway.

For more news, click here.

Saturday 24th February, 2024

We all know there is more to easter than chocolate eggs and hot cross buns, but that doesn't dampen our desire for the opportunity to indulge. Easter is not just a treat for the little ones (although the magic of waking up to hidden brightly coloured foil covered chocolate is high on the list of core memories of most), it's a multi-generational chance to indulge a little.

Whether you are setting up a chocolate egg hunt for the kids, decorating the home, or simply looking for a little luxurious treat to share (or not!) with loved ones, we have you covered with our round up of our favourite Easter treats, all available in Newmarket.

Father Rabbit

Father Rabbit is one of our favourite places to visit for their beautiful homewares and great gift ideas. The store has a beautiful range of sweet Easter decor as well as luxury chocolates, perfect for gifting.

Bed Bath N' Table

Set up a whimsical Easter table and indulge in some toasted hot cross buns for a chocolate free Easter weekend. Bed Bath N' Table always have gorgeous decorations perfect for adding a little magic to the day.

French Country Collections

Home of the most beautiful modern-rustic homewares, French Country Collections has a stunning Easter collection that will stand the test of time and look great year round. We love the outdoor decor for a subtle touch.

We love these little Bunny Tail Pot Stands, to add a hint of whimsy to your outdoor space while being practical at the same time.
Perfect for indoors, these sweet little Hanging Bunnies are designed to hang off ledges or surfaces to add some charm, plus they come in a set of four!

The Warehouse

If you are looking for a one stop shop for Easter, head to The Warehouse. Packed full of easter treats, from chocolate bunnies, to dress ups, and PJ's, The Warehouse has it all.

New World

Head to New World and grab a great selection of chocolate from your favourite brands, or grab the ingredients and try out their Easter pudding recipe - the perfect way to use up left over hot cross buns (if they exist!) and turn it into a buttery hot pudding, perfect as the weather starts to cool.


And as Easter isn't all about Chocolate, we've rounded up some of our other favourite ways to celebrate Easter.

easter basket
Grab a Seed Bunny Basket and create an egg hunt.
LUSH have once again created the cutest Easter collection, from bubble bar carrots, to bath bomb chick's and even a hot cross bunny, you'll find something for everyone.
For a sugar free Easter treat, grab this Mimi & Lula Easter Egg Surprise Available at Allium
Luna Bakehouse have once again created a twist on a classic with these Biscoff filled hot cross buns - yum!
Opt for a dippy egg instead of chocolate, these detailed Cinemon Flora Egg Cups from Farmers are the perfect way to enjoy them.

For more shopping news, click here.

Yet another 'retro' trend has re-emerged, but with a sleek and modern spin.

Slingback heels rose to fame in the 20's as they became synonymous with Hollywood glamour through the likes of Audrey Hepburn and her classic style. Originally designed as a practical yet stylish solution for women with the strap providing comfort and a secure fit, the style has well and truly stood the test of time.

The slingback style has once again crept onto our radar in a variety of modern styles. From a glossy patent pump, to bright pops of colour or a pearl detail style ballet flat, we've rounded up some of our favourite versions of this trend all available in Newmarket.

With their mesh front and dainty bow, these sweet slingbacks are top of our list.

Ted Baker Relona Heel - Available at Smith & Caughey's
The perfect neutral heel, the colour and subtle shine of these Alias Mae slingbacks would work with every outfit.

Alias Mae Isabel - Available at Superette
Channeling barbie-core, these pink slingback heels from Novo add a whimsical touch to any outfit. Perfect to dress up denim, or add a pop of colour to a neutral outfit.

Novo Intelligent Heels
These grunge style flats from Isabella Anselmi are a flattering shape, the buckle across the foot adds interest and texture to a classic style.

Isabella Anselmi West Slingback Flat - Available at Merchant
From the dainty buckle, to the elegant heel, these patent leather heels are the holy grail of slingback.

Saint Laurent Lee Slingback
These loafer style slingbacks are the perfect choice for both casual and formal occasions. The chain detail across the front adds a touch of rock and roll to the classic cut.

Elleme Eva Slingback - Available at David Jones
The silver hardware and elongated pointed toe give these slingbacks an edge that amplifies any outfit. Plus, you can remove the ankle strap to easily convert your look.

Rag & bone Victory Slingback - Available at SCARPA
A perfect everyday shoe, we love the nude tone and soft shape of the toe on these slingback flats.

Nicole Rebstock Raven
A modern neutral, the deep chocolate colour and square toe is a great trans-seasonal option that pairs well with light denim or more formal pieces.

Kathryn Wilson Bree Slingback
We love the pearl detail on this ballet flat style slingback from Stuart Weitzman. The subtle touch transforms this classic shoe to something a little bit dressier.

Stuart Weitzman Pearl Slingback -Available at David Jones

Click for more shopping guides and fashion news.

新年快樂 恭喜發財

Wishing you a Happy New Year!


It’s a known fact that Aucklanders love dumplings and what better way to celebrate the Chinese New Year than to participate in a tradition that'll not only fill your belly but fill your heart.

Traditionally, on the eve of the New Year, dumplings are eaten by families in China. Their golden money pouch exterior is said to represent fortune and prosperity which makes this tasty treat even more delicious. Dumplings are eaten during Chinese New Year because the dumplings themselves look like money pouches and are said to represent fortune and prosperity in the coming year. So on that note, let's eat!


Pear Garden Slider V1


Pearl Garden

Pearl Garden is an Auckland institution, one of Newmarket’s most famous and well-frequented spots known for their bustling Yum Cha. The much-loved eatery serves up all of the classics when it comes to Chinese cuisine, but their dumplings are worth their very own mention. Fresh, steaming little delights packed with flavour. Some of our favourites include the spinach and prawn, pork and cashew and the duck and mushroom. We suggest grabbing your friends and heading to Sunday Yum Cha to get the full Pearl Garden experience.

1 Teed Street


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108 Tastes

With lots of different options on the menu, deciding what you want can be hard...but not for us, it's the dumplings that we're here for! Steamed to perfection, these delicate dumplings are sure to warm you up whatever mealtime you pop in for.

100 Carlton Gore Rd


TianFu Noodles

Don’t be fooled by the name, TianFu Noodles also serve up a delicious range of dumplings in soup. Their range of hearty flavours are some of our favourites for a quick lunchtime bite or to fill that late-night craving. We highly recommend the dumplings in spicy and sour soup.

477 Khyber Pass Road


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White + Wong’s Newmarket

Newmarket’s latest rooftop dining outposts take on ‘east meets west’ cuisine fuses street food flavours from China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand, resulting in the most delicious dumplings you might have ever tasted. Try our personal favourite – the Prawn & Coriander Crystal Skin Dumplings. They’re the perfect ratio of prawn to coriander and are a 'melt-in-your-mouth' starter prior to a delectable Asian fusion feast.

Level 5, Rooftop on Broadway, Westfield Newmarket


Eden Noodles

This noodle spot quickly became a public favourite after their spicy dumplings took social media by storm. Crafted with precision, filled with a fusion of savoury fillings and soaked in fiery spices, each bite will leave you wanting more. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, these dumplings hit the spot every time and we can’t resist ordering these upon every visit. Although they have a selection of different flavours, we will always opt for the classic pork and cabbage in spicy sauce - delicious! 

424 Khyber Pass Rd



Canto Canto

If pan-fried dumplings are more down your alley, Canto Canto is calling your name. As these golden parcels sizzle in the pan, their casing develops a crispy skin which traps all that juicy goodness inside. So whether you crave the flavoursome filling or the crunchy casing, Canto Canto offers you both with this option. 

Level 3/277 Broadway


Kuai Dian Eatery

Although they are known for their endless selection of Chinese favourites, we know them for their dumplings! After biting into one of these you'll never want to order anything else again. Each mouthful is a sweet symphony of flavour with the perfect amount of spice for that little kick at the end.

473 Khyber Pass Rd

For more food and drink options, click here.

Our favourite drink takes on a new look over the warmer months, the steaming hot cup of coffee becomes icy cold - a refreshing twist much needed to cool us down on a hot day. As self proclaimed coffee connoisseurs, the iced coffee still has to be made perfectly. With a strong double shot of espresso being at the core of our favourite cold brews.

We've rounded up some of our favourite places in Newmarket to grab a great iced coffee. Keep this list handy - its a goodie.

Altezano

A visit to Altezano is always a great idea. These coffee roasters know how to perfectly roast, grind and extract coffee for that perfect creamy flavour, and the iced coffee is no different. Made with chilled milk and fresh espresso just the way we like it, youll be sneaking in a daily visit before you know it.

Altezano, 1 Kent Street | @altezanobrothers

Leafé Cafe

Right by the 277 entrance to Westfield Newmarket is Leafé Cafe, a bustling cafe serving up freshly made food and an incredible array of treats from the cabinet. Leafé is well known for it's Matcha latte's, however they also make an incredible Cold Brew coffee. Brewed in house and served in a take home glass bottle, this is the perfect way to enjoy an iced coffee whether it's in the cafe, at your desk or at home.

Leafe Cafe, Westfield Newmarket 277 | @leafecafe_akl

Leafe Cafe Cold Brew

Majestic

On the ground floor of Westfield Newmarket, near to David Jones is Majestic Tea Bar - alongside their extensive selection of tea, this cafe has an impressive range of iced drinks and frappes, including our favourite Iced Latte.

Majestic, Westfield Newmarket 277 | @majesticnz

L'Affare

If you are a coffee lover, L'Affare will already be on your hit list. Their Newmarket cafe is their Auckland HQ where they roast, blend, grind and brew their coffee beans to perfection. For an extra special treat, why not try their affogato, freshly brewed espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, technically an Italian desert but it makes for the perfect cold coffee treat on a hot day.

L'Affare Newmarket, 22 Melrose Street | @laffarenewmarket

Teed Street Larder

One of the best spots in Newmarket on a sunny day is Teed Street Larder. Grab a seat in their courtyard, a bite to eat or a sneaky treat from the cabinet and sip away on a refreshing iced coffee.

Teed Street Larder, 7 Teed Street | @teedstreetlarder

Bambina

A quick stop at the most instagrammable cafe in Newmarket is a must, the food looks *almost* too good to eat, and they serve up an impressive iced coffee too! Their iced Mocha is our go-to for a cold, caffeinated and decadent treat, served in a glass swirled with lashings of chocolate sauce.

Bambina Newmarket, Shop 3, 25 Teed Street | @bambinanewmarket_cafe

Bambina Newmarket Iced Mocha

Luna Bakehouse

Not only do Luna Bakehouse make the most incredible croissants and pastries, they also make a great iced coffee. Made just the way you like it and served over ice for that perfect, cold caffeine hit.

Luna Bakehouse, 237 Broadway | @lunabakehousenz

Starbucks

Home of the Frappuccino as well as a range of decadent dessert flavoured cold coffee's, Starbucks boasts an impressive range of ways to get your iced coffee fix. Whether you like it blended, poured over ice, flavoured with your favourite syrup, black, cold brew or with a dash of sweet cream, Starbucks has it all.

Starbucks, Westfield Newmarket | @starbucksnz

Starbucks Newmarket

Best Ugly Bagels

This Montreal style bagel shop serves up an iced coffee with a twist, made with Good Joe coffee and sweetened with 100% pure maple syrup, served over ice - this is the perfect antidote to that sweet craving, whilst also being uber refreshing.

Best Ugly Bagels, 3A York Street | @bestuglybagels

iced coffee

So if you are in the mood for your caffeine hit but its too hot for a steamy latte, try one of these delicious icy cold options instead.

For more food and drink news, click here.

It's been rumoured to be a long hot summer in New Zealand, and with the heat, extra UV exposure and use of air conditioning, our skin can easily become dehydrated. While avoiding the sun is near impossible, giving your skin a hydration boost has never been easier thanks to the array of science and nature backed skincare products on offer.

Not to be confused with moisturisers which form a barrier on skin locking in the hydration you already have, skin hydrators actively work to draw in moisture from the atmosphere and trap it in your skin, adding hydration. These products often contain glycerin or hyaluronic acid - a powerhouse skincare ingredient but there are many other super-hydrating ingredients to look out for.

If you have ever walked in store and felt overwhelmed with where to begin, we've whittled down 10 of our current favourite skin hydrators to make your life just that little bit simpler.

La Roche Posay Hydrator Serum

1.

From the dermatologist-backed French brand La Roche-Posay comes one of our favourite Hyaluronic Acid serums. This silky serum contains two types of HA as well as vitamin B5 for an hydrating and re-plumping the skin, plus its perfect for sensitive skin too.

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum Available at Chemist Warehouse.

2.

A super hydrator in a mist formula? Yes please! The Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist uses four types of Hyaluronic Acid in its hydration rich mist, as well ceramide to lock in moisture for supple skin. Gently mist across skin for a calming hydration boost at any time of the day.

Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist Available at Smith & Caughey's.

3.

Aloe is one of the best natural hydrators and this Moisture Surge hydrator from Clinique is packed with this super ingredient in an oil-free, gel cream formula for a great hydration boost.

Clinique Moisture Surge 100 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator Available at Farmers.

4.

Snail Mucin is a powerful hydrator popular in Korean beauty products for helping to achieve that glass skin look. This serum from Hikoco is our current go-to.

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence Available at Hikoco.

5.

Hydrate while you sleep with this overnight mask from MECCA MAX. The formula contains the salt form of hyaluronic acid, as well as Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E for smooth, plumped and hydrated skin.

MECCA MAX NIGHT DUTY Hydrating Overnight Jelly Mask

6.

This Charlotte Tilbury Serum contains Polyglutamic acid, a supercharged skincare ingredient that is super hydrating as well as vitamin c for skin brightening.

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir Available at MECCA

7.

People with oily skin will often skip hydration, but just because you have oily skin doesn't mean your skin isn't dehydrated, and dry skin can actually make the problem worse. Instead opt for a water based hydrator like this Aesop Serum which feels light on the skin and sinks in quickly.

Aesop Lightweight Facial Hydrating Serum

8.

The skin on our body can often be neglected when we are focusing on our ten-step skincare routine, reach for this super hydrating body moisturiser packed full of Hyaluronic Acid as well as Squalane for smooth, hydrated skin all over.

The Solution Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Body Lotion Available at Life Pharmcy.

9.

Containing Glycerin (another super hydrator) as well as Hyaluronic Acid, this light jelly-serum from Summer Fridays absorbs quickly into the skin. The Squalane helps support a healthy moisture barrier meaning soothed and hydrated skin.

Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum Available at MECCA.

10.

And finally, don't skip your lips! Dry lips can mean cracking or tightness. Ensuring our lips are well hydrated makes for smoother, fuller lips. This Dior gloss also contains Hyaluronic Acid to help plump fine lines and moisturise for a perfect, glossy and hydrated pout.

Dior Addict Lip Maximiser Plumping Gloss Available at Sephora.

By learning how your skin reacts to different products, you will find exactly what it needs and your skin may prefer one product or hydrating ingredient over others.

For more beauty updates, the latest products and more, click here.

Famous for its flamboyant carnaval, iconic beaches and beautiful samba music, Mark Knoff-Thomas takes us through his life-long love affair with Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's beautiful beachside metropolis.

Shown above: Christ The Redeemer Statue Created by French Sculptor Paul Landowski.
Photo: Marchello74 / Shutterstock.

Ahhhh Rio! Cidade Maravilhosa – Marvellous City. My lifelong love affair with this iconic Brazilian metropolis began back in Standard 2 or 3 (that’s Year 4 or 5 in modern speak). Back in those days for geography projects in class, the teacher would get out a huge rocker stamp, and dutifully press the outline of a country onto a piece of paper for you. (The smell of the ink was enough to put you into rehab to be honest). The anticipation would build as you didn’t know where the place would be until the imprint was revealed. This was the beginning of an exciting journey into faraway and exotic places – very far from Dunedin, in the 70s. One such project - and one of the few memories I have retained from primary school - was Brazil, and in particular a feature on the beautiful city of Rio de Janeiro. A spark was lit, I was mesmerized.

Fast forward a few decades…. on arrival and after jumping into a taxi, at then Galeāo Airport but now renamed Tom Jobim International, we slowly made our way towards the hotel in Ipanema. Rio is hectic, but not in a Bangkok kind of way. It’s a city that moves, slowly, it’s busy, and traffic can give Bali-esque PTSD. Your eyes will drink in so many iconic geographic sites and buildings – driving passed Maracan. stadium – the largest in Brazil, Sugar Loaf Mountain, glimpses of the coast, and Corcovado (Christ the Redeemer statue). There are also confronting images of young kids walking in motorway lanes selling chips and drinks, weaving in and out of cars. It’s a lot. It’s a chaotic symphony. As you get closer to the main beach areas you soon realise some of the best views of Rio are had from some of the most impoverished parts. Favelas (shanty towns) crawl their way up the steep hills encircling the city with grandstand views of some of the world’s most famous beach fronts. It’s an oddly beautiful juxtaposition. Favelas are home to plenty of every day decent people, but some also harbour dark secrets, drug and gang activity. The Rio Federal Police have their work cut out keeping on top of the issues.

The inhabitants of Rio are known as Cariocas,they embrace life and live it to the fullest. Music and dance is in their DNA. Rio is famous for many things like its annual Carnaval (Carnival), Samba, Bossa Nova, and of course its beautiful beaches. Moving from west to east, are Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana and Leme. They form a continuous line with a peninsula break in the middle between Ipanema and Copacabana. All are open to the public and are well worth spending some time at. All along the city-side of the beaches you will notice “Postos”, which are numbered lifeguard stations, often indicating what sort of crowds go where and what activities are available. The Postos also have facilities such as showers, toilets and changing rooms. Small fees may apply. Postos 1-6 are best for sunrises, playing volleyball, football, or showing off your muscles, and Sugar Loaf Mountain views; Posto 7 is more surfer oriented, or for quieter romantics and sunsets; 8 and 9 are LGBTQI+ specific spaces; 10-12 are very boujee and where the millionaires and celebs hang out.

Rio - Ipanema Beach
Ipanema Beach. Photo: Catarina Belova / Shutterstock

Commerce all over Brazilian beaches is alive and well. And in Rio at regular intervals along the soft sandy stretches you will find bars and cafes. But parading the beaches are vendors selling a vast array of things. From hammocks to sarongs and bikinis, to fried haloumi, prawns on sticks, sunglasses and drinks. The sellers really are their own art form. Great for people watching, and good for bargains. Just be mindful of any wooden handicrafts as you don’t want to be that person featuring on Border Patrol on your return to NZ.

If you love trawling through markets for souvenirs, knickknacks or clothing you’re in for a treat. Rio is very well served with plenty of markets, plus if you are a bit of an art lover and enjoy supporting up and coming artists, you can find some great original pieces at ‘Feira Hippie de Ipanema’. It will undoubtedly get to the point where you will spend significantly more on framing the canvases than you did on the actual art! Copacabana has a night market on Avenida Atlantica every day except Sundays. And remember you’re in Brazil, the mothership of Havaianas - don’t miss out on picking up a pair. For a more upmarket retail experience head to the boutiques in Ipanema (especially Rua Visconde do Piraja, a vibrant street parallel to the beach that crosses the whole Ipanema neighbourhood and links Copacabana to Leblon) and Leblon.

If, like me, you’re an architecture nerd, and in particular love the designs of Oscar Niemeyer, you are in for a treat. Rio doesn’t have the same volume of Niemeyer’s work as Brazil's capital Brasilia, but it does have some superb examples. His buildings are dotted around the city, but it’s well worth making the small trip over the harbour to Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum – a 6km NZ$30 taxi ride. The museum wouldn’t look out of place on the Jetsons and is part of the Caminho Niemeyer (Niemeyer Way), an 11km route showcasing many of Niemeyer’s designs. Quite stunning. Architecturally Rio gives midcentury vibes. Many examples of modernist commercial and apartment blocks with superb use of concrete (I’m a huge fan… look out for my TED Talk on Le Corbusier – just joking). You can imagine the elite of Europe and the US flocking to the beaches here in the 60’s. I’m sure Hollywood A-listers, Jackie O, Euro-royalty and The Rolling Stones etc, would have been regulars. It has that Roger-Moore-as-James-Bond-in-a-tux-sipping-a-martini energy.

Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum. Photo: Renatopmeireles / Shutterstock

Apart from their succulent BBQ meats, Brazil is not really all that well-known for its food, but the country does have some absolute delights. For a hot country – and it can reach fan-bake oven temperatures – they sure love stew. Rio has great food aplenty and boasts the best dishes from all over the country. If you’ve never tried Feijoada (black bean stew) often served with farofa - fried cassava flour, do it, or Moqueca (fish stew, with origins from Bahia in the northeast of Brazil), pastel (a rectangular-shaped fried snack with a vast array of delicious fillings), coxinha (a chicken filled croquette), biscoito Globo with mate tea at the beach (a tradition for Cariocas), a refreshing acai, and you must try one of the many Churrasco restaurants (specialising in steak – apols to vegetarians). In particular – peak tourist - but nonetheless fabulous, was the steak I devoured at Restaurante Garota de Ipanema. This was the place where composer Antonio Carlos ‘Tom’ Jobim was at when he got inspiration to write the song “The Girl from Ipanema”. Most churrascaria (BBQ restaurants) will serve endless amounts of meat to your table, carved out in front of you, until you say stop, or get the meat sweats – whichever comes first. This type of bottomless service is called ‘rodizio’ – and is keto heaven! (NB: In Brazilian Portuguese the letter ‘R’ is generally pronounced like ‘H’).

When visiting many international cities, you need to have your wits about you (actually that probably applies to Auckland these days too), Rio does have a reputation for crime. Be mindful of bags, phones and even smart watches. When I travel anywhere these days, I keep my phone safely locked away in a bag, and my smart watch in an ActionSleeve positioned on my upper arm under my t-shirt sleeve. It means I can keep up my activity and steps (mild obsession) but not have my watch on display to tempt the more lightfingered.

Depending on how much time you have, I’d recommend doing a tour, there are plenty on offer. They make navigating the city easy, and you can rely on expert local advice. At the end of the tour, don’t be surprised if your guide asks for a tip, this is pretty common practice. On top of what I have already mentioned, other things I’d recommend for your bucket list:

Museu do Amanhā – Museum of Tomorrow located in Praça Mauá.
Photo: R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock
Escadaria Selarón, or ‘Lapa Steps’.
Photo: Aleksandar Todorovic / Shutterstock

There have been rumours circling for many years that Air NZ was planning direct flights to Brazil, but COVID seems to have put that on the back burner. They do however do a code share with United Airlines via Houston. Or LATAM operate daily flights to Santiago, Chile on their very comfortable 787 Dreamliner, with direct connections through to Rio.

This is merely a snippet of things that you can do and see in Rio. Auckland has a fast-growing population of Brazilians, and links between New Zealand and the South American continent are only getting stronger and stronger. Rio, and Brazil in general, provides a superb option for a holiday destination, for something unique and different. Plus, currently the exchange rate is favourable to the NZ dollar. Rio really is Cidade Maravilhosa!

This article was published in NEWMARKET. Magazine Summer issue, click here to view more.

Join us on Lumsden Green for Sunday Sounds, a FREE event with live music, as well as great food and cold drinks available from your favourite Lumsden Green Restaurants including Archies Pizzeria, Safran, Flying Burrito Brothers, The Lumsden Freehouse, V.T.Station, and Dear Deer. This event is proudly brought to you by the Newmarket Business Association and Waitematā Local Board

Event runs 12pm - 4pm on Sunday 4th February, Sunday 11th February and Sunday 18th February 2024.

Some seating available.

Lumsden Green is on the corner of Khyber Pass & Broadway - click here to view it on a map.

For the best parking in Newmarket, and public transport information, click here.

Find out more about Lumsden Green's restaurants below.

Event dining options
Archies Pizzeria
Flying Burrito Brothers
V.T. Station

Archies Pizzeria

Archie's, is homely Italian food at its best. With their long list of creamy pastas and renowned wood fired pizzas (an especially popular one being the salmon and tomato concasse), further complimented by an extensive beverage menu, Archies is a cozy joint perfect for a family meal or a quick lunch.

Safran

A delicious taste of the Mediterranean, Safran is the perfect place to share some fresh Calamari, Hummus and Pita bread, and selection of your favourite dishes from Spain and Italy. Safran has a beautiful outdoor area perfect for enjoying a cold glass of wine and a sharing a delicious platter.

Flying Burrito Brothers

All the best of Mexican street food in Newmarket, Flying Burrito Brothers is an ideal spot to grab a jug of sangria, and your favourite Mexican dishes. They have all the classics like traditional guacamole, fresh tacos filled with anything from pulled pork, fish or spiced chicken to battered garlic prawns, as well as Quesadilla, Enchiladas and tasty small bites too.

The Lumsden Freehouse

The home of craft beer in Newmarket, The Lumsden Freehouse has an extensive list of local brews as well as an impressive bourbon selection, and great wine and cocktail list. The Lumsden has a welcoming atmosphere and a great food menu to satisfy any craving.

V.T. Station

If you love Indian flavours, V.T. Station is the place to go, this fantastic restaurant offers up delicious and authentic Indian street food and an incredible cocktail menu including some amazing alcohol-free options as well. From small dishes to curries and beautifully smoked meat cooked on the charcoal grill, if you love punchy flavours, V.T. Station is an absolute must try.

Dear Deer

Dear Deer offers up premium coffee made just the way you like it. Freshly roasted beans are brewed to perfection in a range of different methods. You can find your classic espresso based coffees like flat whites, cappuccinos and long blacks, as well as traditional Japanese methods such as the use of a Kalita pour over for a different taste and aroma.

To keep up to date with event information, find out more here. We hope to see you there!

Opinion by Mark Knoff-Thomas, CEO, Newmarket Business Association

The sand between the toes has gone, putting on socks and long pants again never felt so odd, the Christmas/ New Year break is over and we’re gearing up to get stuck into 2024.

Looking back, it’s fair to say 2023 was turbulent. Inflation, and rising mortgage rates, played a major role in determining what people were able to spend at the eftpos machines in supermarkets, retail stores and in cafes, bars and restaurants around the country. The election (campaigning for which seemed to start in January!) caused decision making paralysis and a feeling of uncertainty – at least until the outcome was known. Unexpected weather events provided some significant challenges –  and subsequently insurance costs have surged.

Thankfully we don’t have an election to contend with this year, so that clears away some uncertainty. However we should expect the unexpected, and the country is facing some head winds, let alone what is happening geo-politically.

The new government has made quick work of acting on their 100-day plan: cancelling Auckland Light Rail; repealing Fair Pay Agreement legislation; reintroducing 90-day trials for all sized businesses, to name a few of the changes.

The reality is though, many New Zealanders are looking to the government to deliver some miracles. According to the IRD website, there are approximately 3.38 million tax payers in this country. Our tax comes from three sources – income tax, company tax and GST. We are a country comparable in size geographically to Japan or the UK. The tax yield from those 3.38 million has to go a hell of a long way. Not only do we need to ensure we maintain what we already have around the country from government services and housing, to roading, rail and other infrastructure, but also anticipate growth (we tend to be pretty average at that side of the equation). I have used the analogy that New Zealand sometimes feels like a villa undergoing a reno and we’re a bit short of cash to complete it.  The new government will have to be smart with how and where they spend, and also look at new innovative ways and partnerships in the private sector to help get things done. And boy oh boy there is a lot to get done. The infrastructure deficit, the housing situation, the health system, inflation/ cost of living, the water, the roads, the rail… and Auckland.  Auckland needs some serious attention with robust and sustainable solutions on the table to allow it to increase productivity and fully flex as the greatest big little city in the world.

Wishing all businesses all the very best this year – lets hope we can leave the roller coaster that was 2020-2023 for the history books.

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