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Treasure Island Mini Golf

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Auckland is home to many tourist attractions, and the best one on the scene is Treasure Island Mini Golf.

Located at Auckland Airport, this 18-hole mini golf course is set on a pirate-themed island and provides hours of family fun. It’s perfect for all ages, and there’s even a special area for toddlers.


A classic and a must-do! Discover Treasure Island, an adventure golf course themed in the style of pirates with pirate ships, cascading waterfalls, haunted caves, and shark-infested waters. This course is sure to please the whole family.

Here Is Where You Can Get Tickets!

Features

✅ Awesome pirate-themed adventure golf course

✅ Fun family entertainment for all ages

✅ Auckland’s largest adventure golf course

✅ Two 18 hole courses – Blackbeard’s & Captain’s

Book Your Golfing Experience Here!


Take on waterfalls, crocodiles, sharks, and eels as you putt, club, and drive your way over them! Treasure Island offers two 18-hole courses. There is plenty of fun to be had on the courses and they are a great day out for the whole family or to make your first date a little more exciting. It is perfect for parties, corporate events, sports teams, youth groups, families, and friends during the summer.

Putt through haunted treasure caves, over life-size pirate ships, past majestic waterfalls and past shark-infested waters on this beautifully landscaped course.

Family adventure entertainment at its finest: high fun for adults and kids, low risk, and minimal skills required.

Booking Is Now Available Here!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is everyone provided with a ball and club?

Each player gets a ball and a club. Kids and adults get clubs with different lengths.

If it rains, are they open? Is it undercover?

Yes, they are open when it rains. The course may be closed in severe weather. If it is stormy, it is best to call in advance. They are not under cover, so bring your raincoats!

Is mini-golf suitable for children of what age? Can my infant play? Can the elderly play?

Mini-golf is best suited for ages 3+, although younger toddlers are welcome. You may not, however, want to include their scores on the scoreboard! It is important to be aware that the courses have water features, bricks, rocks, and other hazards. Treasure Island’s courses do not have steep hills or unstable ground, so even those with mobility problems and the elderly can walk easily.

Do the courses allow pushchairs and wheelchairs?

Only the Caption course does.

Are you allowed to bring our own food and drink?

Of course you can, just make sure you use the bins provided and clean up after yourself.

How long does a round of golf last (approximately)?

One course takes approximately 30 minutes – 45 minutes to complete. Depending on how busy it is and how fast you or your group are, it could take more or less time.


Extra information and facilities:

  • Toilets
  • The Captain’s course is wheelchair and pushchair accessible
  • Free parking
  • Ice cream and cold drinks are available for purchase
  • On request, BBQs are available
  • There are three function areas for birthday parties, family get-togethers, corporate functions, and hen and stag parties

Opening Hours: (weather permitting)

From December to February

  • Monday – Saturday: 9am to 9pm 
  • Sunday: 9am to 9pm 8.30pm LAST ENTRY

From March to April

  • Monday to Wednesday – 9am to 5pm
  • Thursday to Saturday – 9am to 9pm 
  • Sunday: 9am to 7pm 

From  May – November

  • Monday – Thursday: 9am to 5pm 
  • Friday – Saturday: 9am to 9pm 
  • Sunday 9am to 6pm

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Sensory Maze

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Odyssey Sensory Maze is an attraction located in Auckland, New Zealand. It is a maze made up of different rooms with various optical illusions and sensory experiences.

The maze is designed to stimulate the senses and provide an interesting experience for visitors. There are different rooms with unique optical illusions and sensory experiences that will challenge and entertain guests of all ages.

This attraction is perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a fun day out.

Get Your Tickets Here!!


Experience the Odyssey Sensory Maze in Auckland and let your senses come alive! This tourist attraction is located in Auckland’s central business district, right next to the busy Aotea Square and inside the Skyworld Entertainment Centre on the lower basement level.

In Odyssey there are obstacles, fun illusions, lighting effects, scents, sound effects, and strange sensations galore.

You will be blown away by the adventure maze, which has been specially designed to blow your mind! You get unlimited re-entry to Odyssey Sensory Maze for one hour with the 1 hour ticket, and you get a pair of crazy goggles as well.

Experience the world from a completely different perspective as you stretch your imagination, excite your senses, and challenge yourself! Perfect for all age groups and all weather conditions. Open from Sunday to Thursday from 10am – 9pm, and from Friday to Saturday from 10am -10pm.

Here Is Where You Can Get Tickets!!


Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does it take to complete the maze?

In general, the course takes 20 – 30 minutes to complete, however this may vary from person to person or group to group depending on how confused or lost you get or how long it takes you to manoeuvre through the obstacles! No time limit is set, so we encourage you to take your time to explore as it isn’t just about finding your way out but also enjoying everything we have to offer!

Do young children have a chance to play in the maze?

Odyssey does not recommend it for children under the age of 8. It is largely due to the fact that there are darker areas inside the maze (one small area is pitch black), combined with some intense sound effects and young children can find these areas difficult. This age group is not prohibited from entering, but Odyssey  are not recommending it. 

Different children have different reactions to these experiences, and some find them delightful, while others find them a little intimidating. Therefore, entry for younger children is at the discretion of the accompanying parent or guardian after they have been informed of the above. You should also note that should you decide to take young children through the maze and then want to exit early, we cannot process any refunds, so this is something to consider when deciding whether or not to take them through.

What kind of clothing should I wear to the maze?

Dress in something casual and comfortable that you can move easily in. Dresses and skirts are probably not the best choice for the maze since there are some physical challenges and quirky obstacles.

Can I wear my glasses inside the maze?

Yes. If you wear glasses, you will want to keep your hands out in front of your face wherever you cannot see or see the way. It is important to take extra caution through the maze as Odyssey is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal property.

How difficult is it to navigate the maze?

It’s not designed to be difficult to complete the maze. There are a few obstacles to navigate, but the path ahead is generally straightforward. Mazes are supposed to be fun activities to enjoy, not a contest or challenge to beat. Because of this, they encourage every group to take their time and to enjoy the sensory maze journey.

Is my camera allowed in the sensory maze?

Phones, cameras, and other recording devices are not allowed in the sensory maze. During the sensory maze experience, all belongings can be stored in lockers located in the reception area.

What are crazy goggles?

Crazy goggles have amazing light diffraction lenses. It enhances the sensory maze experience and is popular with visitors.

Pins Henderson

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Looking for a fun activity to do in Auckland?

Pins Henderson offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. Their bowling alley is perfect for family fun or group events. They also have a café on site so you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while you play.

The lanes at Pins are well-maintained and offer a great experience for everyone who visits. Plus, their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so they can help you with anything you need.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, first date, or just relaxing, bowling is great for all ages! This place is perfect for group functions, kids’ birthday parties, and much more. The ultimate 10 pin bowling action and entertainment is waiting for you at Pins Lincoln Road Auckland.

Click Here To Purchase Your Tickets Here!!

Features:

✅ A family-friendly activity

✅ 10 pin bowling

✅ There are game zones

✅ A café and a bar

Get down to Pins Lincoln Road for the best ten pin bowling action and entertainment around. Whether you are a kingpin or a gutter ball expert, you will love bowling at Pins Henderson.

West Auckland’s premier indoor recreation space offers great value for money entertainment.

With its 10 pin bowling lanes, games zone, café and bar, Pins is the best place to play. Come for a fun bowling experience, then relax and laugh with your friends and family.

Opening hours: Open every day of the week from 9:30am to midnight

Book Here So You Don’t Miss Out

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ten-pin bowling?

During ten-pin bowling, a bowler rolls the bowling ball down a wood or synthetic lane toward ten pins arranged evenly in four rows in the shape of an equilateral triangle at the far end of the lane. The aim is to knock down all ten pins on the first roll of the ball, or if that fails, on the second roll.

Can you wear your own shoes at bowling?

As long as they are flat-soled, closed-toe shoes, everyone (adults and children) can bowl with their own shoes.

Duder Regional Park

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Auckland is a city of natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting Duder Regional Park.

Duder Regional Park offers stunning views of Auckland’s skyline and harbour, as well as plenty of fun for visitors to enjoy. There are walking and biking trails, a playground, a swimming area, and more.


The Duder Regional Park lies on the pōhutukawa-fringed Whakakaiwhara Peninsula, which cuts into the Tamaki Strait. The panoramic views of the surrounding hills, Hunua Ranges, and Hauraki Gulf islands may make you feel like you’re on your own island.

You can enjoy this 6.3-km loop trail near Manurewa, Auckland. It takes an average of 1 hour 43 minutes to complete this route. There are plenty of opportunities for birding, hiking, and mountain biking on this trail, but you can still appreciate some peace and quiet during quieter hours. At the entrance, there is a car park with toilet facilities, maps, and a shoe cleaning station to prevent kauri dieback disease.

✅ Hiking

✅ Mountain biking

✅ Kid friendly

✅ Walking

✅ Bird watching

✅ Running

✅ Views

✅ Historic 

What you need to know:

Animals:

  • All Auckland Council regional parks’ bookable campsites and accommodation prohibit dogs, other animals, and pets. Registered assistance dogs are an exception. When booking, you must inform staff if you have a registered service dog.
  • According to the park’s information and the Regional Parks Management Plan, dogs are only allowed in regional parks in the dog walking section. Animals other than those authorised by Auckland Council are prohibited at all times.

Alcohol:

  • Alcohol consumption that is visible and excessive is prohibited.
  • You may be asked to leave the park and terminate your permit

Outside Fires:

  • In the Auckland region, it is illegal to light a fire outside in any public area.

Access to Duder Regional Park

  • Accessible to pedestrians 24 hours a day
  • Summer gate access is from 6am to 9pm (Daylight saving time)
  • Gate access winter – 6am to 7pm (non-daylight saving time)
  • An automatic gate is located at the park’s entrance for vehicle access. The park is closed after hours. When vehicles leave, the gate will open automatically.

We hope you take the time to visit this wonderful park during your stay in Auckland. It’s the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of our city.

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Ice Skating Avondale

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Paradice Ice Skating is the perfect place to have some family fun!

The Ice rink is located in Avondale and they offer a range of activities for people of all ages. Whether you want to skate or play ice hockey, they’ve got you covered. They also have a snack bar and a café on site, so you can grab a bite to eat after your session.

Paradice Ice Skating is the best ice skating place to spend an afternoon or evening with your friends and family. They have something for everyone, so head over to Paradice Avondale today!

Purchase Your Tickets Here!!


The Paradice Ice Skating Avondale is your go-to entertainment spot! Under the disco lights of their Olympic ice rink, skate along to the latest hits.

Features:

✅ The ice skating rink is Olympic-sized

✅ The latest hits will be played under disco lights

✅ Everyone will have a blast!

✅ Helmet and skates are included

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Paradice Ice Skating is Avondale’s hottest spot. It is located in West Auckland. You can skate along to the latest music and lighting effects in their Olympic-sized arena. 

A variety of hot cabinet food is available at the De Frost café, as well as platters and combos suitable for groups and parties.

Get Your Tickets Here!

Details:

What’s Included:

  • General admission
  • Skate hire
  • Helmet hire

Duration:

  • The whole experience should take approximately two hours.

Location:

  • 150 Lansford Crescent, Avondale, Auckland 0600, New Zealand

Restrictions:

  • Minimum age for skating: 3 years old 

Check Out: Activities in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions:

When should we arrive before a session? 

Skates are handed out around 10 minutes before the session starts, so arriving a few minutes early is a good idea to avoid the long lines.

Are spectators expected to pay?

There are capacity restrictions at red light, so spectators must pay general admission to enter. Parent and guardian spectators are free when there are no capacity restrictions.

Is it cold inside?

Depending on the weather outside, the temperature changes. The temperature inside is around 5 degrees. It is essential to dress warmly. Don’t forget to wear socks too!

Is my bag safe?

It is strongly recommended that you use the lockers and not leave bags, wallets, and mobile phones on the seats at Paradice Ice Skating Avondale. Paradice Ice Skating Avondale does not accept responsibility for lost or stolen items. Avondale Ice Skating offers coin operated lockers for $3 for 3 hours or $5 for 5 hours. Each locker holds a medium-sized bag and a pair of shoes.

What is the minimum age for children to skate?

In order to skate at Paradice Avondale, children must be at least 3 years old. Your child must wear a helmet if they are 6 years or younger. You may either bring your own helmet or we have helmets available for free use.

Is it possible to bring my own food and drinks?

Due to the snack bar and the café on site, there may not be any other food or drink brought on the premises.

Is there any safety equipment I need?

Although ice skating is a fun and safe activity, Paradice recommends that their guests wear helmets while they are skating to protect themselves from accidents. Please Note: 6 and under are required to wear a helmet, these are free to use, otherwise, you are encouraged to bring your own.

Customer Reviews:

  • We paid for an upgrade on our skates. Definitely a good idea, as even these skates were not amazing quality. Tabatha – Trip advisor
  • Came here for date night on a Saturday night and had a blast! Almost kissed the ice a couple times but still a hell of a lot of fun! For beginners like myself I would recommend the class offered and or a beginners frame. Thanks to the staff for being attentive and friendly! Amy – Trip advisor

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Dining In The Dark Auckland

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Are you tired of boring dining? Are you craving a fantastic experience that will engage your other senses while eating food? Wanting a unique sensory experience? Look no further because Dans Le Noir presents the dining in the dark (in Auckland) that you have been looking for. Yes, you heard us right – eat your wondrous meals in pitch-black darkness and take your dining experience to a whole new level.

Dans Le Noir (meaning “in the dark” in French) is an international company known for their delicious and fabulous dining experiences. Their main concept is having a fantastic meal full of flavours that you eat in the dark. You won’t just be eating in complete darkness; you will also be guided and served by low vision or blind people. The servers will help you manage your way to your delicious meal. More than 1.6 million people have already lived this unique experience worldwide, will you be next?

At first glance, it may sound a bit odd, we know. However, by eliminating your vision, your other senses will be heightened. By leaning on your sense of smell and taste, all while not paying attention to other guests, you’ll be able to elevate your meal like never before. This isn’t just a cute date idea, this is a fabulous event that you’ll never forget.

Surprise your taste buds

Dining in the Dark Auckland is the ultimate tasting experience. Step inside a darkened restaurant and have the most amazing three-course meal from the surprise menu while losing your senses in the darkness. This truly makes for a unique tasting experience, as the pitch darkness just somehow makes the food taste so much better.

There will be a multitude of diverse flavours, textures, and aromas. Some food will come at various temperatures, bringing your dinner to a whole new level. Sounds like a great time, doesn’t it? Research conducted by psychologists has shown that this is a unique social experience as well as a unique tasting experience.

Dining in the dark – How Does It Work?

Once you arrive at the restaurant, a guide will be waiting for you and lead you into the darkened environment, where you will be, of course, dining in the dark. The guide is there to make sure that you don’t accidentally bump into anything on your way to your table.

Waitress Georgia (a well-known waitress in the restaurant) will bring you your welcome drink (most often wine), so make sure that you carefully grab and hold the glass in your hands once you receive it. The welcome drink is often a carefully picked wine to help elevate your meal. After that, you will be slowly introduced to the food menu. If you have any dietary requirements such as not consuming meat for religious reasons or if you’re a vegan, worry not, because there will be an option for you on the surprise menu.

The address details are:

  • Viaduct Yacht Club (48 Market Place, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand, 1010, Auckland)

Food menu & surprise menu

Dans le Noir is open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:30 pm. It’s located in the heart of Auckland city (CBD Auckland), at Rydges Auckland. This well-thought experience has been around for many years, serving countless guests from all over the world. Attending this event is guaranteed to be a great time. Rely on your other senses, and do your best to carefully grab your cutlery and welcome drink.

The team behind Dans le Noir has created their famous surprise menu that comes in three different versions. The first one is called “Trust the Chef”, the second one is called “Seafood” and the third option is created for those who are vegan. It might sound crazy, but complete darkness will elevate your taste buds. Dining in the dark will, therefore, be a fantastic experience like never before.

Options and pricing

Are you ready to surprise your senses? Good. Since the night will be full of speculation, relying on your sense of smell, excitement, wine, delicious flavours, and even some self-questioning. This unique sensory experience is truly a fantastic yet fun lifetime event. Something that you’ll tell your grandkids about for many years. Immerse yourself fully in your dinner while dining in the dark, in Auckland CBD.

Dans le Noir also does private events, special events, and even corporate events on request, every day of the week.

Here is a breakdown of the prices of this fantastic experience:

  • Classic food menu – 3 course meal : starter, main and dessert: $95.00 ea
  • 2 course menu – starter & main or main & dessert: $74.00 ea
  • Gourmet food menu – starter, main, cheese plate, and dessert: $115.00 ea

You are guaranteed to have a fun experience for your senses at the Rydges hotel in Auckland. The dark in Auckland has never tasted this good.

The Finest Evening in Auckland

Join Dans le Noir no matter what your dietary requirements are. Be welcomed by the finest, unexpected guides that Auckland has to offer. Their unexpected guides (waitress Georgia being the most well known) make dining in the dark a unique human experience as well. Since the waiters and waitresses are all either blind or have low vision, meaning that you will also be experiencing dining their way, creating a unique sensory adventure.

This human experience may even permanently change how you perceive the life of those who have poor eyesight or don’t have it at all. You can call the guides experts of the dark since they will make sure that you don’t miss the table or accidentally hit it. Your safety is in the hands of the best restaurant team in Auckland.

Send your taste buds on an adventure like never before. Don’t wait any longer! Elevate your meal and purchase your ticket as soon as today! Countless testimonials go on and on about what a well-thought experience it is. Dining in the dark will challenge all of your senses in a way that you will never forget. Purchase your ticket for this fantastic event at the Viaduct Yacht Club. Remember… Anything can happen in the dark.

Eat and have fun in the dark, in Auckland!

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The Mesmerising Candlelight concerts Auckland

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The tagline of the candlelight experience is “Music, in a whole new light”, and it’s definitely true. The Candlelight music series presents an intimate multi-sensory experience with the best musicians, the best music, and the best dates, all at the beautiful Saint Matthew in the City (also known as one of the most beautiful churches in Auckland City). There will be an event for everyone since the event features music from different time periods; from classical music to hits from Queen, Coldplay, and the Beatles. On the Candlelight website, they claim that they carefully chose all the venues for every event so that the location elevates the listening experience.

Whether you’re listening to smooth jazz under the night sky in a stunning park or listening to Aretha Franklin being played by some of the top performers in one of Auckland’s beautiful churches – just know that you are in for a top-notch experience. Thanks to Candlelight music series, a locally based company, you can have one of the best dates of your life, while enjoying well-known music or new music, in a sea of LED candles.

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Candlelight Music Series Presents: All-Time Film Music Favourites

Enjoy the ambient glow of hundreds of LED candles, all while listening to enchanting movie soundtracks from timeless classics such as Mulan, Moana, Frozen, Tangled, Pocahontas, and so on. All of the beautiful yet comforting songs will be played by the greatest talents music has to offer. Just like in previous concerts, these hits will be played by a top-notch string quartet. A night full of atmospheric candlelight has never sounded more appealing.

In order to assure the safety of all of the guests, the Candlelight music series urges everyone to wear a suitable mask; unless members of the audience are eating or drinking. Otherwise, a suitable mask is required for the full length of the concerts.

Candlelight: Presenting Ludovico Einaudi

Imagine this: you are surrounded by an ambient glow while listening to the wonderful and well-known music of Ludovico Einaudi played by remarkably talented solo pianist Fionnuala Ward. This fantasy can become a reality thanks to the Candlelight music series. We mentioned that some of the multi-sensory experience(s) are going to take place at beautiful churches. This concert will take place in the city of Leeds, at St. George’s church. If you’re still in doubt about whether or not you want to attend this wondrous candlelight concert, check out some of the reviews and testimonials of the people who attended the previous concerts.

Candlelight: Ballet in LED Candles

Candlelight music series features music from all over the world, meaning that you can have a ballet experience while surrounded by LED candles. This year, Candlelight music series presents the beautiful sounds of Tchaikovsky, Strauss, and other composers at a secret location in the city of Leeds. It’s one of the most magical venues that the Candlelight music series has to offer.

Candlelight: It’s All Yellow

Do you know a single person that can’t name any of the Coldplay songs? The chances are slim. Now, imagine having this experience while surrounded by gorgeous candlelight all around you. This wonderful night includes all of Coldplay’s greatest hits, all played by a pianist and violinist. If you are a Coldplay fan – this is an experience that you won’t want to miss. Even if you are not the biggest Coldplay fan, hearing this music played live by incredibly talented musicians is going to be a night that you’ll never forget.

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Jazz, Sam Jones and so much more

Candlelight Music Series is a locally based company that prides itself on bringing fantastic talent, as well as a plethora of new guests, to Auckland City. Resident pianist Sam Jones loves to make an appearance at Candlelight concerts. Who doesn’t love the lead of Samson Live alongside an ocean of LED candles?

Previous Candlelight Music Series performances have featured artists such as Moses Mackay (Sol3 Mio), (the already mentioned) Sam Jones (Samson Live), Pascal Roggen (Violinist), Andy Keys (Christmas in the Park), and many more. Are you ready to go on a journey through jazz, film music favourites, classical and more, or do you need some more convincing?

Classical music and film music favourites – the top event for music lover

If you are looking for something fun and exciting to do, Candlelight music series is the event for you and your loved ones. Remember, there are only a limited number of tickets for each show, so book your intimate multi-sensory experience now! You definitely won’t regret having the opportunity to enjoy timeless music pieces performed by the featured artists, while surrounded by the ambient glow of candlelight.

Every night of the Candlelight music series includes new music and new top performers. If we haven’t convinced you yet, feel free to check out some of the testimonials and reviews. Want to impress your partner or crush with one of the best dates of their life? Get your ticket today and enjoy the wonders that Auckland city has to offer!

The Best Pancakes in Auckland

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Craving pancakes but don’t know where to go?

We have located the best pancakes in Auckland! These restaurants have a variety of flavours and toppings to choose from, so you can find the perfect pancake for your taste.

These pancakes are made fresh and with high-quality ingredients, so you can enjoy them guilt-free.

Whether you like ’em with maple syrup, cinnamon butter, candied walnuts, grilled banana, seasonal fruit, whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or just plain savoury pancakes – we can all agree that whoever came up with eating cake for breakfast was a pure and utter genius. This delicious food can be easily found on a dinner menu anywhere in New Zealand.

However, where in New Zealand can you get the peak pancake eating pleasure? What is the ideal place to get your Sunday brunch pancake craving fixed? That’s where we come in and share our almost sacred knowledge about the best bacon and banana pancakes in Auckland.

No matter if you like your pancake with mixed berry compote, vanilla yoghurt, cherry mascarpone, a vanilla whey batter, or if you’re more of a rum and raisin pancake type of person. Stick with us (maple syrup joke – sue us), and learn about which places you should visit if you want to have some of the best pancakes in Auckland, New Zealand.

Below, you’ll find our top picks for the top stacks.


Pour that maple syrup!

Woolfy’s Dessert

If you are more of a fan of traditional pancakes, we have the place for you. You can find the perfect fluffy cakes in the heart of Auckland. They have a uniquely airy and fluffy rise, combined with the delicious taste of blueberry ricotta hotcake. Personally, their stacks combined with fresh seasonal fruit, as well as white chocolate crumbs will have you foaming at the mouth. These epic flavours make for some of the best pancakes found in New Zealand. Ask for their blueberry compote and tangy lemon curd pancakes if you want to spend half an hour in heaven.

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Circus Circus

Our top recommendation are the candyfloss pancakes from Circus Circus. These fluffy sticky date cakes are beyond tasty, and will definitely bring excitement to your taste buds. You go to Circus Circus when you’re looking for a fix for your sweet tooth – not for a savoury pancake. They have been around ever since 1995, and they are a true staple of New Zealand.

If you wanna get fancy, ask for vanilla maple syrup or honey orange blossom syrup over your (tiramisu) pancake. The creamy Greek yoghurt alongside spiced poached pears is always a hit. (They do have other delicious fruity toppings, such as berry coulis or strawberry compote.) Whatever you order from here, just know that you’re in for some amazing food.

If you’ve never had a cheese pancake – ask for their vanilla mascarpone pancakes made with delicious ricotta laced batter or ultra fluffy nippon pancakes with whipped cream cheese. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra punch. Eat dessert like you never have before at Circus Circus. PS. Try their mermaid yoghurt bowls.

Jam Organic Cafe Takapuna

People boast about them in the reviews, and we have to agree. They produce some gorgeous, ultra fluffy nippon pancakes that are quite literally to die for. They have incredible griddle cakes and iconic dessert pies that you won’t stop mentioning to your friends once you’ve had them. Combine this with their delicious fruity toppings, and you have a one-stop ticket to pancake heaven, my friend.

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Yun (ex Major Sprout)

If you’re worried about your brunch cravings breaking the budget, visit Yun. Yun has a beautiful interior and exterior, and with its large gorgeous windows. You definitely won’t miss this gorgeous place on Graham Street. To us, this is one of the greater pancake places in New Zealand. They have delicious Korean-style pancakes topped with almond mascarpone, made with a buttermilk batter. One of our favourites is their ricotta pancakes. For an extra three dollars, you can get a side of gorgeous vanilla ice cream. PS. Their buttermilk citrus pancakes are a favourite for many New Zealand natives. If they have it on the menu, try their housemade butterscotch sauce. Visit Yun to get your sugar fix!

Lemon curd, seasonal fruit, or vanilla bean ice cream?

Candy Shop

If you’re worried about your brunch cravings breaking the budget

but-boring brunch, and while the cabinet usually has any number of delectable baked treats to satisfy a sweet craving, the dine-in menu’s pancakes are worth a try. The default batter is gluten free, and is presented under a cloud of creamy labneh topped with stewed local quince and topped with Fijian dark chocolate crumble for textural contrast. Buttermilk pancakes and hotteok from The Candy Shop If you’re seeking pure indulgence, The Candy Shop’s buttermilk pancakes are for you. The plate is lined with sweet strawberry mascarpone and dollops of Nutella foam while the cakes themselves are garnished with coffee

Honey Bones

Honey Bones is well known for serving pancakes that are as big as your entire plate. Their have truly unique flavour profiles. Some of our personal favourites are their ricotta pancakes, which are served with lemon curd, Greek yoghurt (expect vanilla yoghurt), luscious poached fruit, and bacon that is optional. If you’re not into pancakes with a poached pear, try their salty Green Tea pancake. It’s made with pumpkin, kale, seasonal greens, dukkah, and served with a poached egg and an optional avocado. Their breakfast menu is amazing, so check them out even if you don’t feel like getting a pancake.

Marua Road Cafe

Carrot cake is truly appreciated in New Zealand, meaning that it’s no surprise that so many people adore Marua Road’s carrot cake pancake. The only downside with this place is that their portions aren’t as big as you would like. However, the taste makes them easily one of the greatest pancakes in Auckland. The fluffy stack comes surrounded by cinnamon crumble, maple drizzle, and cheese frosting. The combo of these items makes for a truly delicious dish.

Conclusion

Us Kiwis, we truly praise whoever is to credit for the invention of pancakes. Whether you like sweet pancakes or savoury Korean pancakes, we know a place for you. Only the best of the best for the ultimate lovers of this fluffy goodness! I’m sure that you can find the baklava pancake of your dreams served with rhubarb poached pear, alongside red velvet hotcakes in one of our recommendations. We always think that it’s fun to experiment with foods that you love

What’s your favourite pancake place, and which pancakes do you order?

Hopefully, I’ve inspired you to play around with your pancake order a bit more.

Where to Eat Waffles in Auckland

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Craving some delicious waffles in Auckland? Look no further!

We have rounded up the best place to find the most amazing waffles in Auckland. They have a wide variety of flavours for you to choose from, and with a team that is passionate about making sure you have an unforgettable experience.

These waffles are made fresh daily with only the finest ingredients – so you can taste the difference. Once you try one of their waffles, you’ll be coming back for more.


The Best Waffles Auckland

We’ve all come to love this tasty delicacy. However, we’re prompted with the question: “What makes waffle dishes stand out?” Waffles have a long history. Did you know that the first waffle recipe dates back to the 14th century? It was a recipe that a husband wrote for his wife. It stated: “Beat some eggs in a bowl, season with salt and add wine.”

This is a bit different from how we make waffles today, making it harder to pin down what the perfect waffle is. Some people like them light and fluffy, while others like them dense and moist. Some adore the caramelised edges, others like ’em with caramel sauce. Whether you like waffles crispy and chewy or soft and airy; finding the perfect waffles in Auckland is quite a challenge.

Waffles are a favourite to a lot of people since you can add all kinds of delicious additions, even though a truly great waffle will stand out on its own. You can have sweet waffles and you can have savoury waffles (preferably with some fried chicken to top the flavours). What can we say? Waffles are, simply said, great food. No matter if they are served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, caramelised banana, bacon (and fries), or topped over with honey or Nutella.

We have decided to make your life a bit easier and we’ve tested out where you can get the best waffle fix in Auckland. We’ve put together this list based on flavour, texture, and we have added extra points for originality. Are you ready to live a bit easier as a waffle lover in Auckland?

Let’s dive in.

With Fried Chicken or Maple Syrup: The Best of The Best

We often refer to waffles as something that Americans created, even though the French were the first ones to eat waffles. However, it’s undeniable that America gave its own twist to waffles. They became a staple comfort food for families all across the world. Luckily, we have all embraced the chicken-waffle and have our own hot spots to get the best fried chicken waffles.

Peach’s Hot Chicken

If you want to have the true experience of a fried chicken waffle, right from the heart of Nashville – Peach’s Hot Chicken is where you’ll want to go. For the cheap price of $17, you can get some truly authentic and delicious fried chicken waffles. This is one of our favourite places for a waffle bite full of flavours. Be sure to grab a to-go bag, too! The waffles are fluffy, beautiful (thanks to the gorgeous batter), and covered in whipped garlic butter and maple syrup.

Bread & Butter

This adorable bakery is another spot with delicious fried chicken. Some people may consider this cheating since their waffle resembles hashbrowns more than actual waffles, but this dish is almost better than anything from a top restaurant. You can find this bakery at 34 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand.

Waffle Supreme

Waffle Supreme is located on Elliot Street, and it’s small but wondrous. The waffles here make for the perfect sweet treat. Try the raspberry mascarpone combined with either ice cream or chocolate toppings. We are also huge fans of their coffee – just an FYI. Expect excellency from Waffle Supreme. After all, they aren’t called that for nothing.

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Bald Eagle Diner

Located at 89 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay, Auckland 1071, New Zealand 4, they have some of the most unique chicken waffle dishes. Their beautiful savoury waffle is one you shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re a native of New Zealand. This dish will drive you nuts. Believe us (it’s one of the best ones that we ate). The taste is simply immaculate. Just simply – yum.

Little Bird Unbakery

This might seem like an odd choice – but to us, their waffle is an absolute winner. If you are looking for a more unique flavour profile, Little Bird is worth visiting. If you are not a fan of the salty waffle, get a plate of their gingerbread waffle that is served with fresh fruit (such as coconut and pears) and candied nuts. Combined with milk tea, this is one of the best treats. Visit this Auckland beauty and tell them that we sent you! PS. The ginger bread is gluten-free.

Café Mimosa

This is definitely one of the best dishes that Auckland has to offer. This café is a vegan hot spot, since you can find some epic waffles here. We recommend the red velvet and chocolate banana waffles. It’s so ridiculously good, we’re truly at a loss for words. They offer sweet and delicious toppings, and you can wash it all down with great coffee. If you’ve never tried a vegan waffle, this sweet and cute dessert place is definitely a spot in Auckland that you should visit with all of your friends.

Salted Caramel or Chocolate Sauce

Eggloo

The location is Sylvia Park: 286 Mount Wellington Highway Mount Wellington, Auckland 1060 Mt Albert Dessert Café: 883 New North Road, Mount Albert, Auckland 1025. If you’re not a bacon and fries type of person, go and grab some dessert at Eggloo. You’ve heard of bubble tea (which they also have), but now get ready for – bubble waffles! Our recommendation is to try some bubble waffles with whipped cream or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a dessert that you will remember forever, no matter which toppings you choose. All of them are a great choice. Not only does it taste delicious – it looks cute too! Order a waffle and wash it down with some beautiful bubble tea.

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Charlie & George

If you are looking for breakfast for dinner – come to Charlie & George. They have an all-day breakfast menu where you can find your sweet fresh fruit waffle fix with mascarpone cheese. The lunch menu has salty corn and chicken waffles, making this place ideal for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner! Whatever meal you choose – you won’t go wrong. The portions are huge, so you’ll have more than enough food to eat even for dinner. They serve their waffles beautifully, in a stack of three.

The mascarpone cheese and delicious batter are unmatched. They serve this dish with a side of lemon curd, making it the food of your dreams. It’s fragrant and thick and it’s just begging for that topping of maple syrup.

Conclusion

As you can see, waffles can be eaten at all times of the day. Whether you like your waffles with chocolate drizzles or served with a side of fries, one thing is for sure: its happiness served on a plate. Auckland has some real waffle gems, perfect to satisfy your waffle fix.

Check out some of our favourites and let us know how much you enjoyed your meal. Enjoy your delicious treats and get munching!

Best Pies in Auckland

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Looking for the best pies in Auckland? Look no further! Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, try one today!

We, as Kiwis, just simply have a natural affinity for the yummy, savoury goodness, otherwise known as pies. Delicious pastries have kept us full and satisfied for generations. We’re such serious and dedicated pie fans that we have pie competitions and supreme pie awards that we take extremely seriously. Only the best pie of all pies in Auckland can be called the supreme pie. Last year, this prize was won by a female baker, for the first time in Auckland history.

This tasty pastry is perfect for any meal; breakfast, lunch, or dinner – a good pie will always be an excellent choice. Let me introduce you to the best pies in Auckland; whether you like ’em with apples or with beef and gravy.

The Best Cheese Pies

Often, when we say pies, people may think of apple pie from a cute bakery. This type of imaging is enough to make your mouth water uncontrollably. Here in New Zealand, we mean savoury pies. (Even though all flavours of pie are valid and beautiful in their own way). Here, we are going to focus on the top savoury pies, in the classic flavours of Auckland. Try to think of mince and cheese, steak and cheese, pastries with perfect layering, eaten with gravy… Is your mouth watering yet? Because if not, it will once you hear more about the top finalists and about the supreme winner of the supreme pie awards.

The only question now is what makes this gorgeous pastry one of the best pies that Auckland has to offer? Is it the additional ingredients/source of protein such as smoked fish, pork belly, steak, mince, or bacon? Is it the creamy sauce? Or is it the type of cheese used? The answer is: all of it… and a little more. Let’s break down who deserves our gold award for best pie.


Humble pie or Cheese pie: The Creme De La Creme

The Federal Delicatessen

This wonderful diner is located at 86 Federal Street, Auckland City, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. They have a rating of 4.5 on TripAdvisor, and countless reviews raving about how great their food is. Their whole theme is a mixture of authentic NYC dishes combined with Jewish heritage. Here, you will want to try their American-style griddle cakes. They’re soft, tasty, and filled with chicken, beef, or pumpkin. What more would you want? Some other pies in Auckland that you should try are the steak and cheese pie, or the mince pie which is so rich in flavour that it almost tastes sweet.

Dairy Flat Bakery

Located at 1443 Dairy Flat Highway, Albany, Auckland 0794, New Zealand; where would this list be without the Dairy Flat Bakery? Their pies have won more awards than Katharine Hepburn has Oscars. This bakery won in five different categories back in 2015. They are well known for their amazing chicken and spiced apple pies. In our eyes, this bakery deserves a gold award every year.

The Fridge

The Fridge has been proclaimed online as one of the top places for the best cheese pies in Auckland. If you’ve never had a pie from The Fridge – you need to try their mince and cheese pie. They have all the classic flavours, and you can find a pie here for more than one occasion. They do anniversary pies, birthday pies, and even Mother’s day pies. If you think you can handle having your life changed forever, try one of their best pies: the steak and cheese. Their golden flaky pastry is, honestly, to die for. Buttery, yet hearty and full of flavours.

Ronnie’s Cafe and Bakery

Located at 3 Albert Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand, this is an excellent choice if you want to go easier on your wallet. Known for the semi-soft tangy cheese in their pies, you will definitely have a delicious experience visiting this place.


Supreme Pie Award

Last year was a historic year for the Supreme Pie Awards. For the first time, a female baker took the title. Auckland baker Sopheap Long from the Euro Patisserie bakery in Torbay, New Zealand, has won the 24th Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Award thanks to her beautiful steak and cheese pie. (She makes it with mozzarella!) New Zealand Bakels managing director expressed his excitement with Sopheap Long winning this award:

“This is an enormous achievement for her and we congratulate her on her success. It shows that if you are determined to work hard and be committed to the quality of what you produce then it can take you far and reward you well. Pie fans from everywhere will be heading for her bakery to try her pies and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed.

When it came to judging Sopheap’s gold-winning steak and cheese pie in the final round to find the Supreme winner it seemed like all of us judging stopped in our tracks as we tasted it and we were all deep in thought. This pie has everything going for it! The steak was chunky but so tender it just melted in your mouth. It was surrounded by rich, dark gravy and topped with a semi-soft tangy cheese; just delicious. The golden flaky pastry had perfect layering and the base was lightly golden brown with a hand hold-able firmness. We just couldn’t fault it.”

Sopheap Long had to outshine over 5000 pies that were competing against each other in the competition this year, with around 465 bakeries entering the competition.

Bakers spent time polishing their beloved recipes during lockdown times, creating quite a competition this year. Kiwis love a good blend of beef and cheese, as the two categories “steak and cheese” and “mince and cheese” had the highest numbers of entries.

However, the bacon and egg pies were also quite popular this year. (P.S. Bacon and egg pies are a very popular breakfast seller, if you weren’t aware of this.) Another pie trend that was noticed during the competition was the rise of gluten-free and vegetarian pies.

Pumpkin was a popular choice for the vegetarian category. For some categories, it was an extremely close call. There were instances where it would have been either a tie or where a baker won with one point difference and even half a point difference.

“This year the Bacon and Egg gold award pie had a creamy sauce surrounding the egg and wonderful smoky bacon. The Gourmet Meat gold winner was slow-cooked Wagyu beef curry, perfectly balanced sweet and savoury spices in an Asian-fusion style. Both demonstrate that pies today are enormously superior to when we started this competition and yet they are still an affordable, nourishing meal,” says Mr Kersel.

Bakers from across New Zealand met up at the Hilton Hotel in Auckland on July 27 for the 24th Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Awards – a Bourbon St, New Orleans themed night – to celebrate the winners among them (Jason Hay) and to crown the first-ever Pie Queen, Sopheap Long, with her top prize.


Conclusion

Since Kiwis love pies so much, we need to mention some honourable pie places such as Ginger Dynamite Go Go Food and Coffee with their excellent lentil and curry pie. This is made with cooked wagyu beef curry.

No list is complete without the Mustard Kitchen and their wondrous bacon and egg pie, made with only the best of the best ingredients. If you are looking for a flavour different from the ordinary apple pie or chicken pie, go to Mairangi bay. This bakery is well known for its tasty smoked fish pies. If you are ready to expand and challenge your taste buds – go to Mairangi bay.

Try some of Auckland’s best pies, as soon as today!

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