Love is in the air this month with Valentine’s Day coming up on February 14th. This year it falls on a Tuesday and there’s plenty to do with the loved ones in your life on the Shore no matter what your age and interest. We’ve compiled a few ideas to help you plan your special day and support our local Shore businesses and eateries. Here's some inspiration...
1. Plan a picnic at your local park or beach
With so many beautiful parks, beaches and secluded spots locally, a post work Tuesday night picnic is the top of our recommendations. Here's a few suggestions:
2. Go for dessert at one of our fabulous spots
House of Chocolate (Takapuna and Beach Haven): A classic spot in the heart of Takapuna, this dessert restaurant will be popular this Valentine’s Day and for good reason! Think waffles, affogato, chocolate pudding and caramelised banana split, there’s definitely something for everyone’s sweet tooth here. Located at Shop 5, 62-78 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna (also at 13 - 15 Sunnyhaven Ave, Beach Haven – takeaway only store).
Shake Out, Smales Farm: For the sundae and milkshake lovers, this is the perfect casual dessert after dining at Soho Thai, Fantail & Turtle or The Grange. Located at: Goodside, Smales Farm, Takapuna.
Paper Moon, Mairangi Bay: Whether you're after affogato, tiramisu or a chocolate bomb, this local institution won't disappoint. They also offer a full dinner menu. Located at 437 Beach Road, Mairangi Bay.
3. Enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer… & more!
We’re not short on great places to share a beer or wine together (and eats) this Valentine's Day. These are the places we recommend checking out:
Beer Spot Northcote: The Beer Spot offers 40 taps of rotating hoppy goodness. Enjoy a tasting paddle or glass on site, and take the beer you tasted home. The team also has ciders, wines, spirits and non-alcoholic options and a food truck if you’re looking for a casual dinner to pair your Valentine’s beers with. Located at 54 Northcote Road, Northcote.
Vic Road Wine Bar and Cellar: Enjoy a delicious natural or artisan wine and tapas from the expertly curated menu with your significant other at this part bar, restaurant and bottle shop. Owned by Shore locals, this cute little place is popular with locals and for very good reason. Located at 53/55 Victoria Road Devonport.
Birkenhead Brewing Company: Great food and beer inside their iconic 100 year old Kauri villa. Located at 17 Birkenhead Avenue.
Taylors on Hurstmere (Takapuna): is also great for wine and beer lovers and also for those who enjoy Verve Clicquot! They have a Verve Clicquot happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm just $85 per bottle. And great food! Located at 168 Hurstmere Road, just a short stroll up from Takapuna Beach!
Duo: Another very popular spot is Duo, Birkenhead’s newest eatery on Hinemoa Road. Their food has the neighbourhood humming! For Breakfast, lunch and dinner with a wine list that ranges from wild natural vino to more conventional offerings as well as craft beer and cocktails – sounds perfect for Valentine’s Day!
4. Massages, facials and pampering this Valentine’s Day.
Given Valentine’s is on a Tuesday, why not plan an after-work couples massage or gift a voucher for one of our local businesses.
Willow Skin: Treat your loved one to a facial or beauty treatment at Willow’s beautiful Birkenhead clinic, they’re open until 5pm on Tuesdays and extended hours on Wednesday and Thursdays. Kara and Caroline are experts in a range of relaxing treatments. Located at 148b Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead. See www.willowskin.co.nz for gift cards and a menu of their services.
Forme Spa (Albany and Takapuna): Why not book a relaxing couples massage at one of Forme's luxe day spas, the perfect combination of quality time and relaxation. Book at www.formespa.co.nz
Slowe Takapuna: Infrared sauna provides an ideal mix of relaxation and health benefits, a gift voucher for your significant other would be much appreciated by the health conscious person in your life. Buy a voucher at www.slowestudio.co.nz
5. Plan a movie night at one of our local cinemas
Whether you're local to the Bridgeway in Northcote, The Vic in Devonport, Monterey in Takapuna or one of the many theatre complexes on the Shore, a movie is always a good idea, especially on Valentine's Day.
We like the look of Romeo and Juliet playing at the Bridgeway, an iconic classic showing just for February 14th. The Bridgeway is located at 122 Queen Street, Northcote Point.
And lastly, for those in the market for a new car and want to demonstrate their love in the grandest way possible this Valentine’s Day, go and visit Ben Panettiere at Peugeot Citroen Opel North Shore. They’ve just moved into their new premises and Ben promises to give Valentine’s Day buyers flowers, wine and chocolate with their vehicle purchase! Fantastic new dealership located at 16 Fred Thomas Drive.
Spoil your Valentine on the Shore on Tuesday February 14th!
