As part of the BIG little City launch of 453 reasons to love your city via Instagram, Life & Style Editor Nicky Park shares some of her favourite central city spots.
Get fresh at Federal & Wolfe: This is one of my favourite cafes in the inner-city. It's edgy,it's friendly, the menu is interesting and it's all organic, free-range and locally sourced. Their fresh juices served in jam jars are delicious - I like the zinger to get me going (apple, pear, lime and ginger) or go for the booster (beetroot, celery, carrot, apples and ginger) if you want to give your insides something to sing about. There's alluring cabinet food and a menu packed with wholesome offerings.
Feel heavenly at East Day Spa: Spa treatments are wonderful. Most people don't allow themselves this sort of time out. But at least once a month I pencil a massage in my diary. East Day Spa has a menu of massages based on ancient Indian Ayurvedic and Balinese rituals - so they're great for the mind, body and soul. Pick the one that suits you best and soak up that me time.
Tackle free yoga at Lululemon Athletica: If you're feeling in a bit of a fitness rut, the dreamy lululemon athletica store at Britomart is sure to get you in the mood. The international brand boasts the world's best gear for your sweaty pursuits. They're founded on the quirky mantra of living 'long, healthy and fun lives' and the store inspires this. Go in store to find out about their free yoga classes and get your downward dog on.
Walk home via Victoria Park: There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad preparation. You've got to keep reminding yourself of this in a city where the weather is as fickle as here in Auckland. So, I like to gear up and walk home from the city whenever I can. If it's sunny I like to soak up the rays, cutting through Victoria Park, observing friendly sports games, boot camp classes, and dog walkers. Taking in the town by foot makes me remember why I picked Auckland to be my home.
