The Marvel Grill is my go-to place for special occasion. In my experience with this restaurant, I…read morefind I have to go big or go home- there's always so much I want to try here! Marvel Grill has everything you want- supreme location smack bang in the city but very close to the water, A-grade service and its beautiful to look at; the decor of this place is spacious, comfy and sophisticated. The semi-outdoor area provides more dining space and a nice view onto the viaduct. What sets apart this place from others is their attention to detail. They have a great range of skillets to start you with and those alone show a great combination of ingredients and flavours that really compliment each other. The best I've tried so far has to be the maple chilli glazed pork belly with an apple slaw, which is a sign of thing to come, especially when it comes to Marvel Grill and meat. I'll never forget the first time I tried Marvel Mixed Grill; a large hot skillet filled with four types of meat. While I had to have my boyfriend finish my meal for me, it was a great experience. The meat was cooked perfectly (I'm a medium rare girl) and we definitely got our money's worth. For exceptional side dishes, I recommend the iceberg wedge, blue cheese dressing, walnuts & bacon salad and the scalloped potatoes- both delicious! I could talk about Marvel Grill for hours- I love this place. If you feel like splurging on a meal that has been cooked to perfection with the utmost care and the best ingredients available, you can't go past it!

I was truly excited to visit Whatipu Beach because I have been to so many of our West Auckland…read morebeach favourites, but I had not experienced this wonder. Upon arrival I was off with my family to walk the 20 minute/1.5km track to the Whatipu Caves. On the walk to the biggest cave you pass smaller old sea caves along the track, they are really fun to walk into for some exploring. The big cave was very impressive; I really enjoyed walking around and hearing my voice bounce around its walls. I made sure I listened to the department of conservation- and sprayed a disinfectant on the bottoms of my shoes before and after entering the walk; this would help prevent the deadly Kauri collar rot which is easily passed from soiled footwear to trees. After the cave walk, I headed to the beach for a bite of lunch and a chance to soak in the scenery, hardly a sole to see. Picturesque waves rolled in to the shore, while in the distance the Manukau bar dramatically splashed up almost to say check me out I'm dangerous. I will be back Whatipu I promised as I departed this afternoon- you are a mysterious beauty.

Over Christmas my husband and I knew we wanted to go camping but also wanted some quietude, so we…read morelooked somewhere close to home, the Waitakere ranges were it, and Whatipu Lodge camp grounds looked quite remote but interesting. It took quite a windy drive to get to, passing very close to the oceans edge and down some narrow curly passes but with just a mild case of nausea (for me) we eventually got there. The space was very open and had one other camper nearby, a family tenting. We have a van decked out, which was ideal as the place was very windy and wet. It rained the whole time, but I liked it none the less, it wasn't cold and a bit of rain is no drama in my world. The hike up the big hill was easy and gave amazing views of the coast that we had walked along earlier in the day. The wind up on the cliffs did mean we had to keep our wits about us, and no rock climbing. We tried to get to the caves but it wasn't really possible without more serious wet weather gear, we got soggy shoes and socks even through the mere attempt to get at them. I recently read about all the ghost sightings in this place, we saw, nor felt, none, but it did give off a rather haunting feel. But that could also be because it felt like such an isolated environment and was so wet and windy. We did, however, see a lot of bird life. Bird watching is not a hobby of mine but it was kind of cool to see so many and all their antics. The lodge caretakers came over to the car and collected the $15 (per night, per car) and had a brief chat soon after we had arrived. Bookings are essential before you arrive.

I f you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a weekend afternoon, Duder…read moreregional Park a few kilometres past Maraetai could be just the place for you to visit. Situated on the Whakakaiwhara Peninsula looking out towards the Coromandel, the park offers a choice of walking options. The farmland option provides expansive views of the Hauraki Gulf, with one walk taking about 1i/2 hours and the otherabout 1 hour. However the day we went we chose the short walk soft option along the coast line. The peace and tranquility we encountered, with hardly another soul around made the 50 min drive from Auckland well worth while. There are public toilets at the park entrance, and clearly marked maps available. There are signs warning about leaving valuables in the car, which is a useful reminder.

An institution on Waiheke Island, Saturday morning markets at Ostend…read more Love the food stalls, everything from samosas, crepes, Turkish breads and baklava, organic spelt breads, artisan yoghurt and cheese, island olives and fresh fruits and vegetables. But be in quick because believe me, things sell out fast and you'd not want to go away hungry. The stalls spill out from the Ostend hall to the curb and adjoining field. Regular merchants come and sell their wares as well as garage sale type stalls. We picked up a few items of bargain clothing from the latter. Also couldn't resist some ceramic artworks for sale at wholesale prices at the market. We loved the buskers and the addition of sail covers to the central area. A great day out for the family, wouldn't miss a Saturday.

It was a great shame that the rain had rolled in for our visit here. Lots of people were crowded…read moreinto the hall, it was like walking down Oxford Street (London) at Christmas. Saw a few cool looking trade stores, brought a lovely handmade card. The little tea urn was boiling overtime. Outside being wet, it was not idea to sample of the delights on offer. There was some sort of dance presentation trying to put a show on, but the rain beat them. I liked the look of the different food stalls, was tempted to try the Hungarian bread, but it would have ended a soggy mess. Hoping the weather plays ball on our next visit.

Love Tui Glen Reserve. Super popular with families - especially the flying fox. For really little…read moreones (pre-toddler years) there is a smaller playground about 60 metres across the park with small swings and slides. Great place to bring a picnic and relax under the large shade trees.

I understand this place used to be a camping park years ago and one of the closet camping parks to…read morethe city. It's a huge playground with all sorts of climbing contraptions and flying foxes now and attracts a big crowd on the weekend and during the school holidays. There are plenty of smaller playgrounds around but the attractions here are really big and it would almost make you want to be a kid again. It might not suit younger kids and it can get a bit rough with all the older kids competing for space. There are these holiday chalets around it so not sure if tourists still come here. There are plenty of seats where you can sit down for a picnic and the area has running water. If you have kids, it's certainly worth a visit as they will love it. There is a nice walking/cycling trail that eventually leads down to the North Western bikeway path. If you are in the car however, your best bet is to take Edmonton Road towards Henderson and it's the last turn on the right.

Voted Auckland's best food market by a local newspaper, La Cigale French Market is held every…read moreSaturday from 8 AM to 1:30 PM and Sunday from 9 AM to 1:30 PM. This market is inspired by the wonderful food markets found in France. This market didn't exist when I lived in New Zealand in 2003, but I figured it would be an eye-opening experience to compare and contrast the Otara Polynesian Market. This market is just a 20-minute drive from the Otara Market, but will feel worlds away with its much pricier food options, perfectly primped dogs, live jazz performances and wine bars. If you're into high-end experiences, this will be your jam.

Awww how I wish we had something like this in Hawaii. ALL the foods looked great. The smoked salmon…read morewas by FAR the best I've had. So delicious, wish we had bought more! But it was our last night in Auckland. Some of the extras actually made the journey with us to Queenstown. Enough vendors to get your fill on the spot as well as to go. A nice assortment of foods that you still need to prepare, sides, breads, smoothies, etc. Worth a visit as a local or a tourist!

Did the Glenbrook Vintage train ride on Jan 1st, 2023 with the "First Class Experience" - that's…read morethe one in the enclosed parlour carriage with High Tea served. It is about an hour's round trip on the train going through the countryside. Our group enjoyed the trip and the tea/refreshments served by the train volunteers. This is about 10 minutes drive out from Pukekohe.

Railway Enthusiasts this way please!…read more This is such a gem of vintage railway history, which dates back to 1922. The current train tracks run from Glenbrook as far as Waiuku which is just less than 8 KM. I am not a enthusiast as such, but ventured to Glenbrook just the other day in fact for a special event- The Thomas the Tank day with my son, who has of lately become thrilled with the little engine. I was very impressed as all the people who bring this wonderful railway together are volunteers they do not get paid, however are happy to share with us the fruits of their labor. A self supported vintage steam train railway. If you would like to take a ride on one of the vintage trains at the station, pay your fee at the ticket office, 18 dollars for adults, and if your child is under four they are free, or from 4-14 years old they pay 9 dollars. There is a little tuck shop; with sandwiches and coffee, or tea, and ice cream should you find yourself a little peckish. Glenbrook Vintage Railway is a sure treat for all.

This is an open letter to the good gentlemen who operate the Lotto. Dear Sirs, please can you pick…read morethe correct numbers, as I am doing my share by filling in the little form. The reason I would like you to pick the correct numbers, is so that I can buy a small bach near Mairangi Bay beach. The small beach on Auckland's East Coast Bays, is just the place where I can see myself living. The water is good for swimming, the beach is not too big, and not too small, and the eye candy is plentiful. There is just enough parking to keep away the masses, and it is just a short walk away from Mairangi Bay village. A village filled with excellent dining options, and all the facilities a Lotto winner will need. Thank you, I await your selection.

This golden sand beach is wonderful as it's just behind the strip of many great little cafes and…read moreshops as well as one of the beaches along East Coast bays with the concrete walkway. It's connected to Murrays one way and Campbell's the other way and makes for a nice treat, especially with a buddy or a 4-legged companion. It's best at low tide but it was also a shrieking-good surprise with the waves coming in at high tide as well. The grass is elevated behind a stone wall from the beach with swings above the sand. The Mairangi Bay Surf Life saving Club sits just to one corner with patrols during the weekends. We came and saw littles running one weekend morning doing their water safety training. There were also heaps of people in the water and as well as boat taken out. Definitely a great one for summer

Hillsborough Bay is a place of beauty. Just off the top of Hillsborough Road there is also a track…read moreyou can take which is like walking through the jungle to get there. At the bottom lies a green and a picnic table. Carry on across the road down steps to the bay and you will be in awe of the beautiful surroundings. You can see a couple of mountains before you. The setting is tranquil and there are wooden benches to sit on. Take a book and sit under the shade of a tree. There is a children's park at the end, however, it is rarely used. There is also a beach area, however its quite stoney. If you want to meditate or go somewhere peaceful this is your place.