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Take a look into our Takapuna treasure trove: unique small businesses that make up the vibrant character of the North Shore. We’ve gathered together some of Takapuna’s best-kept secrets, our favourite spots that offer a chance to connect with the heart of this beachside community. Basu Lounge Tasty, affordable and highly recommended. Think generously filled dumplings with a killer sauce and beef noodle soup that satisfies the soul. Basu Lounge is the kind of place where you can explore authentic flavours without breaking the bank. Top tip: Add a dash of chilli to your dish for some Eastern heat. Where: 452 Lake Road Farrell’s Music House It’s a musical institution! Takapuna’s been rocking with Farrell’s Music House since 1979. This independent store is the spot

Takapuna’s approach to wellness is as diverse as its coastline, offering options for active exploration and quiet reflection. Wellness can be found in the way we move through the world, like cycling scenic routes or taking a few moments to breathe on a busy day. And when it’s time to unwind, the North Shore has havens for relaxation, from cosy cinemas to yoga studios. Wellness by the water Being near the sea is good for us – this could look like a swim, a deep breath of ocean air, a stroll on the sand with coffee in hand. The natural beauty of Takapuna Beach is freely available to all. Warning: Prolonged exposure to Takapuna’s ocean beach may result in excessive happiness and a general lack

The dog life is a whole lifestyle – morning walks on the beach, afternoon playtime in the park and special moments spent at dog-friendly cafes. If you haven’t brought your furry friend out in Takapuna before, consider this your invitation and handy guide. Leashes, lattes and lovely walks Takapuna Beach is one of Auckland’s top spots for dog walks. Dogs are always welcome off lead on the beach up until 10 am. It’s April now, so winter rules apply: dogs are allowed on the beach all day and can be off-lead on the beach any time after 2 pm! Note that from the start of December we’ll be back in the summer rules and dogs will need to be on-lead from 10 am until 5

The global smash-hit stage show Chicago the Musical is coming to Takapuna this July and August, in a spectacular new production that brings all the glitz, glamour, and scandal of 1920s Chicago to life like never before. The brand-new production, directed by Kiwi creative institution Michael Hurst, will play at the Bruce Mason Centre from 31 July for a strictly limited season then transfer to the Isaac Theatre Royal for seven performances only, from 20 August. The fully-professional cast will feature international and New Zealand singers, dancers and actors, telling a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another including Razzle Dazzle, Cell Block Tango and All That Jazz; and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. “The most exciting musical

Summer is not over! As the warm weather just keeps rolling on, we here in Takapuna are making use of the hot days, seaside buzz and excellent establishments to enjoy that long summer we all deserve. Come join us! Here are some ideas for making the most of March and April in Auckland for seaside activities, creative outlets and awesome sunshine walks. North Shore beachside delights This time of year in Takapuna means fish and chips from Takapuna Fish Shop and a sunset walk on the beach followed by refreshments at Regatta Bar & Eatery. How about a coffee from Takapuna Beach Café while you contemplate the view of Rangitoto Island? We suggest beginning your day watching the sunrise, swimming in the ocean and taking

All-Day Sun, Ocean Views & Good Times. From the team that brought you iconic Auckland venues Dr Rudi’s, Saint Alice and Queens Rooftop & Wineshop. Takapuna Surf Club is now OPEN as a new kind of neighbourhood hospitality venue—a true destination for all of Auckland. Perched above Takapuna Beach, this rooftop oasis (with all-day sun across two garden bars) boasts sweeping views of Rangitoto Island and the wider Hauraki Gulf. Designed to capture Takapuna’s urban-meets-beachside lifestyle, it’s a laid-back, all-day bar and eatery where you can pop in for a quick post-swim drink or settle in for a long lunch under the sun. “Takapuna Surf Club is about bringing people together over great food, perfectly mixed cocktails, shared experiences, and a little bit of fun.”

Are you a budding photographer? Have you taken some epic photos this summer? We want to see them! Just because summer is “officially” over, doesn’t mean we can’t squeeze just a little more sunshine and good vibes out of the coming days and nights! We want to see your best picture from your Summer in Takapuna – it could be the epic afternoon on Takapuna Beach with your friends or family, the kids having the best time on the playground, the most delicious meal you’ve had at one of Takapuna’s amazing eateries, the sunrise from your morning walk along Takapuna Beach, your four-legged friend frolicking in the waves on your evening walk, or any picture you’ve taken in Takapuna that you look at and think

Summer is the season of pōhutukawa and beaches. It is the season of good food, craft beer and cold wine beneath a seemingly eternal sun, with sand beneath our feet and thoughts of many more days of delight. We’ve had a flurry of new North Shore restaurants to try this summer. Here are the new spots to check out on the Takapuna dining scene. El Origen – Chilean street food Keep an eye out for live events, live music and an enlivening dance floor.Once you walk in, it feels like you’ve been transported to Chile. What is this magic?El Origen has authentic flavours, homemade bread and fresh empanadas.  Try this dish: Mechada Pastelera, tender, slow cooked beef and creamy corn purée.  Where: 99 Hurstmere Road