Tuesday Travel - Auckland

I'm covering for AD today who is currently catching up on some much needed sleep after an epic 25 hour journey back to NZ with her gorgeous little toddler. The good thing is that they'll be waking up to sunny blue skies (hopefully) which always makes jet lag recovery so much easier. I've been thinking about all the nice things they'll be able to do back home which brings me to my post today.

What to do in Auckland! Our hometown. We'll develop this over the next few months so by the end we should have a great guide to the City of Sails.

My post today focuses on a place called Britomart in downtown Auckland. In the 1880's this was one of Auckland's principal business districts however a century later, this area suffered from a lack of investment and for many years this was a deserted area with not much going on. However in the past few years, Britomart has undergone a huge transformation and is now a vibrant shopping, entertainment and business precinct. Wandering around here has a unique feel as you're surrounded by new shiny office towers interspersed with beautifully restored heritage buildings.

Shopping wise there is a lot to choose from. Most of the big Kiwi designers are there including Karen Walker, Trelise Cooper, Kate Sylvester and Zambesi. There's also Bobbi Brown, Jo Malone and a LuluLemon for your sporty needs!

One of the things I love most about being back in Auckland is going out for a nice coffee and brunch. Ortolana will be one of the first places I try when I go back.

There are a plethora of bar and restaurants at Britomart. Cafe Hanoi, Mexico and Ostro are dining spots that all come highly recommended by friends and for a drink you could head to Tyler Street Garage or Britomart Country Club.

Hopefully AD will be able to provide an update on the area with her favourite shops and cafes! Or check out our Instagram (bambooandblue) for more pictures of her adventure. MP

Images: 1 & 3, 2 & 4, 5