I'm a big fan of avoiding chain stores where possible, and this is an example of a local business where staff actually remember who you are from visit to visit and they take the time to properly explain what your eye test has shown and what that means, etc . Have heard one too many stories about negative experiences at chain optometrists.
Harrison and Graham has been in Ponsonby for years and has a good range of frames, including frames for all your hipster needs. They've got a bunch of sweet sunnies as well that can have prescription lenses put in them
The prices for eye tests are reasonable, and the staff are generally up for a good yarn.
Super cute range of kids frames, just as an aside (including some very excellent kids sunnies that made me wish i actually had a kid to put them on...). read more