Spy: Oprah's Kiwi love affair

Oprah Winfrey. Photo / Supplied

New Zealand's love affair with Oprah Winfrey intensified even further during her whirlwind trip here earlier this week.

And the feelings are mutual, with the Queen of TV talk shows vowing her first trip to our shores definitely won't be her last.

Winfrey had a packed audience at Auckland's Vector Arena in the palm of her hand during her show on Wednesday night. Earlier, she revealed some of the behind-the-scenes secrets of her legendary talk show career at a small VIP gathering - which Spy proudly attended with Bronagh Key, Dame Trelise Cooper, Annabelle Langbein, Maria Tutaia, Karen Walker, Steve Hansen and other leading Kiwi personalities.

Winfrey wowed us - just as she did the ticket-paying public who attended her show on Wednesday night.

Despite being at the top of her game at Vector Arena, an early night wasn't on the cards for her after the gig.

Instead, Winfrey and an 18-strong entourage headed to Seafarers Members Lounge for a late supper.

Management of the venue were told to "Oprahfy" the space, dressing it up with candles, crisp white table cloths and flowers.

Gifts were also provided for Winfrey and her team, including goody bags by Ecoya and Dame Trelise.

The crowd was entertained by live music from TJ Taotua and the Hettig brothers. Canapes were served - including some featuring the very best of New Zealand produce - making for a very memorable event.

Before the crowd departed Seafarers, Winfrey thanked and shook the hand of every staff member, saying she loved the venue's atmosphere, and said she would return to Auckland in the near future.

A source from Seafarers told Spy that Winfrey and her team flew to Queenstown on Thursday morning.