Spend a day at Viaduct Harbour with Remix Features & Lifestyle Editor, Nina
It’s thought that the best days are the ones spent solo, so when Remix Features & Lifestyle Editor Nina needs a moment’s reprieve, she turns to one destination—Viaduct Harbour.
Those who know me know my greatest indulgences are food and wellness-related, so any time I get the opportunity to spend a day exploring the Viaduct Harbour, I can never get my shoes on fast enough. Juggling life as a mother, a wife, and an editor comes with its challenges, so any moment of free time is a pleasure I’ll never take for granted.
I started my most recent day of rest in the most blissful way possible—with a luxurious treatment at The Spa at Park Hyatt. My therapist, Natalia, worked her magic with a Balance & Calm Massage––a deeply restorative full-body experience using customised iKOU aromatherapy oils and gentle, rhythmic movements, leaving me feeling lighter than air. Floating out of the spa, I made my way to Te Mata Topaki, a breathtaking lookout structure designed by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei artist Graham Tipene in collaboration with LandLAB. Extending 30 metres from Waitematā Plaza promenade into the Viaduct Harbour waters, it’s the ultimate spot for a little daydreaming and some imaginary yacht shopping.
After mentally mapping out a ten-year plan to retire early and sail the world, it was time for lunch. It wouldn’t be a day at the Viaduct Harbour without visiting one of my favourite restaurants for the ultimate lunchtime indulgence. It’s a classic for a reason: I love nothing more than a juicy steak and fries, and no one does it better than Esther at QT Hotel—Executive Chef James Laird has mastered the art of a great Steak Frites. His version? A mouthwatering 300g Speckle Park sirloin, topped with rich café de Paris butter and served alongside golden, crispy duck fat fries.
Feeling incredibly satisfied and in need of a post-lunch refreshment, I made my way to Bar Mea, where Jason Rosen has been crafting some of the best cocktails in the city. I opted for the award-winner, Indigo Dream—a beautifully balanced mix of Skyy Vodka, bianco vermouth, cognac, jasmine green tea, and blueberry, clarified using coconut milk. This is the kind of drink I could have daily: one as smooth as it is stunning.
Bivacco was the final stop of the day—one that was sure to end it on a high note. Here, an evening aperitif and a smorgasbord of small bites were waiting for me before my eventual return to reality. As to be expected from any Viaduct Harbour venue, I could take in the utterly iconic views of the Marina and savour every last mouthful of what I’d argue is the best Italian fare in all of Auckland.
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