My Secret Auckland: Huia Rawiri shares her favourite spots in the city

Huia Rawiri is part of the cast of Waiora Te Ūkaipō– The Homeland.

In this Herald on Sunday series, we ask well-known Aucklanders for their favourite spots in the city. This week, actress Huia Rawiri takes us on a tour of her top places.

Favourite beach?

My beach pick is Pt Chevalier. Growing up in central Auckland, I remember going there with my family, eating fish and chips before swimming in the dark. Pt Chevalier became a place filled with some of my fav memories. After school, my friends and I would escape there to laugh, lay in the sun, and swim.

Favourite brunch spot?

My favourite brunch spot is Blue Rose Café. It’s another place filled with sentimental value and childhood memories. From its delicious Koko Samoa cupcakes to its famous pies, it’s a café I’ve always loved. We would go after netball games, catching up with family, or taking Nana out for a coffee, it is always a lovely place to visit.

Favourite restaurant for dinner with friends?

My current go-to spot to grab food with friends is Sensational Chicken. It’s not a fancy place, but the food is always good and so is sharing it with other people. It’s perfect among me and my uni friends.

Favourite place to take a visitor to?

One of my favourite day trips is the drive down to Muriwai. I’ve made that trip countless times with friends, or to visit my sister when she’s house sitting. It’s a beautiful beach, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun and is a nice walk along the beach.

Favourite spot to finish a night out?

Any kebab shop I can find. I always order mixed meat on chips. Delicious, and definitely unhealthy but hits the spot every time. One that I’ve been to too often after a night out is Star Kebab on Queen Street.

Favourite place to get coffee?

I’m not a coffee drinker like my nan but my mum and I do love a cup of tea at home.

Favourite fish-and-chip shop?

I don’t really get fish and chips often nowadays, but I have fond memories after school, going to the takeaways shop in Pt Chev and buying $3 chips before walking to the park.

Favourite trail for a hike?

Maungawhau has always been a favourite spot for a walk ever since I was little. I have memories of me and my whānau walking up there in the early morning alongside my primary school friends in hopes to get a glimpse of Matariki. It has beautiful views of the city as well.

Favourite venue for a gig?

This has only happened once, but my favourite gig venue is Ngā Wai o Horotiu marae. My university AUT hosted an intimate concert there one night, with a beautiful set for an equally beautiful performance by Mohi Allen. Afterwards, we moved to the wharekai for boil-up and a DJ set. I hope we do something like that again.

Favourite place to find a bargain?

Any op shop in Auckland does the job. I haven’t gone op shopping recently but K’ Road was always a good place to start.

See Huia Rawiri in Waiora Te Ūkaipō– The Homeland at the ASB Waterfront Theatre on March 6 – 22, presented by Tawata Productions and Auckland Theatre Company as part of Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival. For tickets and more information, visit: https://www.atc.co.nz/whats-on/2026-season/waiora-te-ukaipo-the-homeland