We’re all well acquainted with the annual fashion weeks of Milan, New York, Paris, London and the likes, but this Monday marks the start of a lesser-known event – New Zealand Fashion Week.
Now in its 14th year, New Zealand Fashion Week is the focal date in the Kiwi fashion calendar and is a great platform for local designers to pitch their work to a wider audience in country that is filled with potential.
The event runs from 25 – 31 August at Auckland’s ANZ Viaduct Events Centre and the schedule is jam packed with exciting events, but if you are one of the lucky ones heading over and happen to be after a little downtime then we’ve got a few ideas for your trip:
Hit the beach on Awhitu Peninsula
Although only an hour away from Auckland city centre, Awhitu Peninsula remains relatively undiscovered to many locals. The area, where the Tasman Sea meets the black sands of the island’s west coast, offers tranquil bays and a picturesque coastline – perfect for getting away from the bustling city. The Manukau Heads Lighthouse on the tip of the peninsula is one of the few in New Zealand which is open to the public, and once you've climbed to the top you’ll be blessed with stunning 360 ° views of the beautiful landscape.
Climb a volcano at Mount Eden
There’s no better way to take in the stunning panoramic views of Auckland than from the top of Mount Eden, the highest natural point of the city. Discover the history of traditional Māori tribes who set up villages on the volcano with guided trips showing you terraces, storage pits and housing sites which still remain today; immerse yourself in the 5.5 acre award-winning gardens filled with colourful plants, waterfalls and native birds or soak in some culture in one of Mount Eden’s art galleries – there’s much more to do than just climbing to the top.
Soak up the culture of K’ Road
Karangahape Road – affectionately known as K’ Road to the locals – is the bustling cultural epicentre of Auckland and is widely regarded for its creativity, boutique shopping, vibrant atmosphere and buzzing nightlife. You can dance the night away in cabaret-style restaurants, karaoke bars, gay clubs and local bars; find one-of-a-kind garments in the many retro clothing stores and experience a diverse range of flavours in over 100 of the city’s finest eateries.