My Secret Auckland: Junghwi Jo shares her favourite spots in the city

Junghwi Jo is an actor born in South Korea, raised in Ōtautahi and now living in Auckland. Photo / Supplied

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

Favourite beach?

I wasn’t the biggest beachgoer until I met one of my best friends, Caitlin, who would always drag me out of the house to go for a swim with her last summer. Through Caitlin, I’ve been able to explore the many beautiful beaches across Tāmaki Makaurau that I didn’t know existed. My favourite spot for a swim is Cheltenham Beach in Devonport. The sand is always so soft, and the pastel-coloured houses on the side end of the beach makes me feel like I’m in my Euro-summer in Italy... (one day). My go-to destination for a long walk across the sand is definitely Piha Beach during sunset hours. The view of the sun setting is always as clear as day, putting the golden hour into full effect. Shoutout to Caitlin for being such a beachbum, and for always being the one to drive too. Saranghae!

Favourite brunch spot?

I’m not much of a brunch-er, but I love a good pie from PieFee.

View this post on Instagram

Favourite restaurant for dinner with friends?

Parade on Ponsonby Rd. Good vibes, lovely service. Their smashed burgers paired with an Asahi cures everything.

Favourite place to take a visitor to?

Karangahape Rd. I spent a lot of time there training as an actor at The Actors’ Program (TAP) in the Samoa House Fale, whilst working part-time at Coco’s Cantina. I love everything about K’ Rd, the shops, restaurants, events, and the inclusive and empowering culture of community. It’s always special to show my family and friends around to the place where my journey to acting began.

Favourite spot to finish a night out?

Little Turkish Café - I love a kebab shop. During pre’s before going out, I’m always thinking about the mixed meat on chips I’ll eventually be having at the end of the night. It’s really what motivates me to go out.

Favourite place to get coffee?

I don’t drink coffee too often, so I like to go to Janken on Jervois Rd, where they have a selection of really good non-coffee options. My favourite is their black sesame latte.

View this post on Instagram

Favourite fish-and-chip shop?

Blue Lagoon Takeaways on Te Atatū Rd. It’s always my go-to pit-stop on the way to Piha Beach.

Favourite trail for a hike?

I’m not much of a hiker, but I’ve been wanting to tick the Duder Regional Park walk off my list.

Favourite venue for a gig?

Basement Theatre. I go there often to watch shows that my friends are either performing in, or have directed, produced, or written. It’s an awesome and generous space for local artists to showcase their work and talent.

Favourite place to find a bargain?

I recently went to the Central Flea Market on Balmoral Rd and got some really cool glasses for $15.

See Junghwi Jo in Genuine and Stable, presented by Proudly Asian Theatre with Auckland Live, on from 9 – 13 December at Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.aucklandlive.co.nz/show/genuine-and-stable