Westgate

Whether you’re after some retail therapy or entertainment, this West Auckland hub is bustling for good reason. Westgate is best known as a huge shopping destination with a contemporary mall, sports outlets, big-brand homewares stores and New Zealand’s only Costco. Tucked in and around this major retail area are dozens of eateries and cool spots to spend the day.  

On the shopping front, score some discounted digs at outlets that include PUMA, Adidas and Converse. Head across the main thoroughfare to NorthWest Shopping Centre for modern fashion trends, jewellery and mainstream stores like Farmers, Typo and Toyworld. Hungry? The California-style outdoor courtyard along Maki Street is a great spot to dine a few hours after shopping. Grab some beer and pizza at Goode Brothers, dig into a steaming plate of mee goreng at Cinta Malaysian or dine like you’re in the Mediterranean at Casablanca.  

Around the corner from NorthWest is the cosiest little breakfast spot called Source Café – the potato rosti is killer. For something a tad fancier, impress your date over a beautiful bowl of pasta at Amore Italiano restaurant in West Harbour. Hong’s Kitchen is also a favourite among locals for its mouthwatering Chinese dishes and generous portions. And phở is more your thing, tuck into some hot noodle soup at PHO Heaven Vietnamese Restaurant. 

Westgate is lucky to have a concentrated number of activities in the area. Knock over some pins or treat the kids to some arcade games over at the Westgate Bowling alley. If the littles ones have energy to burn, Flippin’ Fun Trampoline Park is only a hop, skip and a jump away. When the sun is shining, head over to the beautiful Kopupaka Reserve that boasts a towering playground. For something more low-key, catch a blockbuster over at Event Cinemas Westgate.