My Secret Auckland: SailGP Black Foils’ Leo Takahashi shares his favourite spots in the city

SailGP Black Foils’ Leo Takahashi. Photo / Supplied

In this Herald on Sunday series, we ask well-known Aucklanders for their favourite spots in the city. This week, SailGP Black Foils’ Leo Takahashi takes us on a tour of his top places.

Favourite beach?

Takapuna. I lived nearby when I first started flatting out of school and I have some great memories of days spent at the beach with mates. It will always be a special place for me.

Favourite brunch spot?

Can’t beat Takapuna Beach Cafe after some time at the beach or on the water. 

Favourite restaurant for dinner with friends?

We are lucky to have an amazing array of cuisines in Auckland and depending on how I am feeling I have two favourites! Xi’an Food Bar in Northcote or Farina in Ponsonby.

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Favourite place to take a visitor to?

North Head provides an epic perspective on what makes Auckland special with the water on all sides and the view back towards the city. It’s hard to go wrong grabbing a coffee and taking visitors up one of Auckland’s many special maunga. 

Favourite spot to finish a night out?

There are lots of great options across Auckland to enjoy an evening, as a sailor it’s hard to beat some of the locations across North Wharf or the Viaduct. Or as a fan of Takapuna, the Surf Club has been a great addition to the area. 

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Favourite place to get coffee?

As a North Shore resident for most of my life it’s hard to go past Coffee Lab in Wairau Valley. They roast their own beans and the shop has a great vibe. 

Favourite fish and chip shop?

Growing up in the area, it’s hard to beat Orewa Beach Fish & Chips shop and eating them down at the beach. It’s a beautiful location and a good reminder of how many great beaches the Auckland region has to offer.

Favourite trail for a hike?

I live close to Riverhead Forest and I love getting in there for runs and walks with my family’s dogs. It’s a great place to connect with nature particularly if I have been away traveling with the Black Foils for an extended period of time. 

Favourite venue for a gig?

I love spending time outside so it’s hard to beat an outdoor venue for a concert like Western Springs. 

Favourite place to find a bargain?

In summer, can’t beat picking up some fruit like fresh berries or a real fruit ice cream from one of the stalls in West Auckland after a mission in Riverhead. 

The ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland will be held on 14 and 15 February in Auckland, transforming NZ’s unofficial home of sailing into the City of SailGP. Tickets are on sale now.