ShoppinginParnell

Shopping in Parnell is much about the quaint journey as it is about the destination. Enjoy the bustling weekend vibe near St Georges Bay Road or wander along the dreamy village, with renovated Victorian villas doubling as storefronts. 

You don’t have to be an art afficionado to enjoy Parnell’s incredible arts scene. The village is dotted with gift shops and fine-art galleries, each housing incredible pieces ranging from whimsical sculptures to contemporary paintings. Bop down from Black Door Gallery’s beautifully bold curation of glassworks and paintings to Parnell Gallery, a long-standing dealer-gallery with original artworks by emerging and established New Zealand artists.  

Look out for some of Parnell’s elegant specialty shops – you won’t find anything like them elsewhere. Stroll along Parnell Village to hit the ultra-artsy bookshelves at Lamplight Books, gorgeous Kiwi-made gifts at The Fantail House and handcrafted papery goods at Passion for Paper. Knitters can spin some yarns at the prettiest little storefront and yarn shop, Loopine Wool Co. Into chocolate? Beeline it to Chocolate Boutique to choose from more than 100 varieties of chocolates, pralines and truffles. 

When it comes to furniture, Parnell will leave you spoilt for choice with the likes of Bauhaus, Matisse and Timothy Oulton in its repertoire. Head to The Strand, one of the oldest streets in Auckland, to find more than 15 stores dedicated to luxe furniture, office décor and homewares.  

At the weekends, fuel your belly, shopping tote and soul at two distinct markets in the neighbourhood. Foodies can feast on smoked fish, artisan breads, gourmet Italian foodstuff at the Parnell Gastro Markets, one of the most popular weekend markets in Auckland. Handcrafted gelato, anyone? For more of the local scene, scoop up some fresh veggies and flowers at the lively Parnell Farmers’ Market every Saturday.