Four reasons to shop until you drop at Commercial Bay this festive season

3 December 2025
By Fashion Quarterly

From curated fashion and standout dining to festive fun for the family, make Commercial Bay this season’s go-to destination.

Summer style starts here

From local icons to global names, Commercial Bay sets the tone for the season ahead with a curated selection of fashion houses defining what’s next. Think directional design from Wynn Hamlyn, timeless tailoring at Sylvester and Juliette Hogan, statement pieces from Superette and Flo & Frankie, and international favourites including Aje, COS and Coach. Exciting new arrivals, such as Zambesi, cement Commercial Bay as Auckland’s place to go for contemporary, ready-to-wear style.

Sip, feast, and be merry

After a day of shopping or city wandering, linger a little longer at one of Commercial Bay’s premium dining destinations. Longer days call for easy gatherings: rooftop drinks, shared plates, and good company. Head to Queens for golden hour views and spritzes in the sun, Gemmi for delicious pastas and wines with a harbour view, or Kemuri Hi-Fi for an underground evening of cocktails, rare whiskies, and a rich vinyl soundtrack.

Glow up for the season

From head-turning hair to flawless finishes, Commercial Bay has every stop on your summer beauty circuit covered. Refresh your routine with make-up must-haves from MECCA, achieve award-winning haircare and styling at Rodney Wayne Shampoo ’n’ Things, or recharge body and mind with a reformer session at Reform Pilates. For a finishing touch, book a manicure at The Art of Nails or a lash lift at The Lash Room.

Festive cheer

Start your festive season with a visit to Santa’s Studio at Commercial Bay. From December 1 to 24, Santa will take up residence in One Queen Courtyard, where a beautifully styled portrait space offers a refined twist on tradition. After your photo, little ones can enjoy free face painting and fairy-led scavenger hunts at Candy Cane Lane, while grown-ups can take a moment to browse the stores, or post their wish lists via the Magic Mailbox for the chance to win one of three $1000 vouchers. As evening falls, gather to watch Te Manaaki, the 18-metre Christmas tree, light up in a dazzling nightly display.

To book your Christmas Santa portrait visit: commercialbay.co.nz/santasstudio

This article originally appeared in Fashion Quarterly’s Summer 2025 issue. 

Imagery: Supplied

Share:

Sign up & Join
FQ Insider

Unlock exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and special offers by becoming an FQ Insider.

Fashion Quarterly Winter 2023 Cover
Fashion Quarterly Winter 2023 Cover

Sign up & Join
FQ Insider

Unlock exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and special offers by becoming an FQ Insider.

Don’t miss a thing. Sign up to FQ’s weekly newsletter.

*Ts&Cs apply.
Find out more at fq.co.nz/fq-newsletter