Shopping Parnell is a special experience, albeit an expensive one, with everything from Timberland to Cartier. You'll find all sorts of exclusive gifts in a rabbit's warren of little historic buildings, restored to picturesque splendor, that stretch along a mile of Parnell Road. Be sure to investigate Höglund Art Glass, 285 Parnell Rd. (tel. 09/300-6238; www.hoglund.co.nz), a beautiful store with original work by leading glassblowers Ola and Marie Höglund. Click on to www.parnell.net.nz for more information about this area. And head for Newmarket's latest hotspot, Nuffield Street for the high-end stores of iconic international and Kiwi fashion brands. There are a number of excellent cafes and restaurants here too -- the ideal place to pause between parcels. I like to go here just to look at the beautifully designed stores and to watch "the pretty people."
Many think New Zealand chocolate rivals Swiss chocolate in quality. For a sample, seek out Chocolate Boutique Café, 323 Parnell Rd. (tel. 09/377-8550; www.chocolateboutique.co.nz). There's even chocolate (hot and iced) to drink, and something for the diabetic, too.
Newmarket is a favorite fashion district for locals, especially on Saturday. This is also where you'll find Two Double Seven Shopping Centre, 277 Broadway, a five-story, block-long building oozing with retail opportunity. Broadway (the main street) has great shoe shops with many international labels represented. Check www.newmarket.net.nz for more information.
