After the champagne and celebrations of the night before, New Year’s Day should be one of indulgence, relaxation and fresh experiences. For the perfect recovery and rejuvenation, here are some of Auckland’s hidden gems and classic favourites that promise an eventful day for everyone, leaving you ready to tackle the beginning of a new year...
Brunch
Odettes Eatery | City Works Depot
Resembling a sophisticated beach house, Odettes Eatery makes for the ideal summer brunch venue. With a menu driven by seasonal produce, their dishes are fresh, flavoursome and experimental. With inspiration from African spices, you’ll find new favourites and adventurous takes on the breakfast standards. A must-try on the menu is their Vanilla Crêpe, coated in chocolate cremeux, candied orange, vanilla cream and pistachio ice cream. With a great indoor and outdoor flow that is shaded in greenery, this eatery is one of the best ways to start the day within the central city.
Midday activity recommendation
Tepid Baths | 100 Customs Street
“The Teps” is an iconic Auckland landmark that has been a fixture in the city for over 100 years. The indoor facility has two pools, and is a completely wheelchair accessible centre. If you feel the need to work off some excess from the night before you could squeeze in a session at the Fitness centre but for recovery, nothing beats relaxing in the spa pool and sauna.
Late Lunch / Afternoon Tea
Picnic in Silo Park | Supplies from Amano Bakery
Continue the day’s outing with a picnic and relaxation in the sun. Make sure you visit Amano Bakery, earlier on the day, for authentic artisanal breads and baked goods from their French Viennoiserie range, or stop off at your favourite cafe for food-to-go on your way through. Once you’ve assembled the perfect picnic spread wander down the waterfront and pick your spot. We recommend a rest in the sunshine at Silo Park where there’s plenty to do for the activity-inclined or find a shady spot and share your favourite moments from 2017 or the New Year’s resolutions for the year ahead.
Dinner
Beast & Butterflies | M Social, 196-200 Quay Street
After enjoying a gentle walk along the waterfront, continue on the eating theme and dine at the exciting new addition to the waterfront area. Beast & Butterflies brings together exotic flavours from regions around the Pacific Rim. Influenced by street food themes and making the most of tantalising fresh seafood, the restaurant offers dishes from Kingfish Ceviche or Pickled Octopus through Fragrant Herb Salad with Tofu to Braised Short Rib Rendang Curry or the exquisite flavour, distinctive marbling and fine texture of the Wakanui Scotch Fillet. With private dining, and outdoor terrace or a table inside you’ll find the perfect setting for your crew within the stylish surrounds of this superbly appointed restaurant.
Dessert or Post-Dinner Drinks
The Sugar Club | Sky Tower
Situated up the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club is the perfect way to finish off the first day of 2018, with dessert, drinks or a combination of the two. With delectable sweet treats and premium cocktails plus a stunning view of the city, what better way to end your day.