Get the look – Creative Director Georgia Bramley wears:
One Of Others ‘Pallas’ mini dress, $369; Bottega Veneta eyewear ‘BV13055’ sunglasses, $999; and Jasmin Sparrow ‘Petal’ earrings, $449; all from Superette. Status Anxiety ‘Reverie’ asymmetric shoulder bag, $280, from Flo & Frankie.
If there’s one destination in Auckland that ticks every box — shopping, dining, beauty, and lifestyle — it’s Commercial Bay. Whether you’re there for a quick lunch, a weekend with the kids, or a night out with friends, this waterfront precinct delivers an elevated experience with ease and style. It’s also the place the FQ team goes when we want to shop, eat, relax, and soak up the best of the city.
One of the reasons I love Commercial Bay is its versatility. For families, it’s surprisingly convenient. The Harbour Eats food hall is spacious and vibrant, with ample parent-friendly parking located near the air bridge for easy access. It feels safe, and there’s a sense of openness that makes it stress-free to bring kids along because they can move freely while you enjoy a moment’s peace — or at least a cupcake from Bluebells!
In the evenings, it transforms into a chic city hub. Looking to meet friends for a drink? Bars like Kemuri Hi-Fi offer an extensive list of cocktails, champagne, and whisky plus a well curated playlist that’s always on point. If dinner is on the cards, the dining choices are second to none. For dumpling lovers, Cāntīng serves up the kind of flavour-packed plates that linger in your memory. Craving noodles or sashimi? KOME’s menu delivers it with a side of sake. Want something more elevated? Origine, with its French-inspired fare and sophisticated ambiance, is your best bet. From Gochu’s contemporary Korean to Ghost Donkey’s tequila bar vibes, each eatery has its own brand DNA and offers something completely unique in both taste and design — even though they all exist under the same roof.
Get the look – Editor In Chief Sarah Murray wears:
Wynn Hamlyn ‘Hibiscus’ button top, $495. Gimme ‘Fleur’ statement earrings, $59, from Superette.
When the FQ team visited on a crisp autumn day, it was a choose-your-own-adventure moment. Our first stop? The shops, of course. As big advocates for New Zealand designers, we headed straight for Wynn Hamlyn’s only stand-alone store — an essential pilgrimage for those who love their take on traditional yet unique pieces. We couldn’t resist stepping into Juliette Hogan, Elle & Riley, and Sylvester, the latter being the newest store to open in the precinct by Kate Sylvester’s three sons. For the guys, I Love Ugly is a must, striking that perfect balance of urban edge and wearable cool. And for an international edit, we explored everything from elevated basics at COS to statement bags and accessories at Coach, Hugo Boss, and H&M.
Commercial Bay is also where we go for a little indulgence — because self-care should always be on the itinerary. You can get your hair styled at Rodney Wayne, your make-up done at MECCA, or a lash lift at The Lash Room, all without leaving the building. It’s the kind of place where an hour can easily turn into an afternoon. At Commercial Bay, there really is something for everyone — whether you’re a fashion devotee, a foodie, a beauty buff, or just looking to enjoy the best of the city in one stylish spot.
Get the look – Commercial Director Tiffany Low wears:
Juliette Hogan ‘Peak Tuxe’ jacket, $699, and ‘Boyfriend’ pant, $629. Superette ‘Aberdeen’ top, $149. Moochi ‘True’ bralette, $130. Nicole Rebstock ‘Nash’ heel, $339.
The FQ Team’s top picks at Commercial Bay
Cāntīng
Sarah says: Tucked into Commercial Bay, Cāntīng brings bold, modern Asian flavours to the heart of the city. With a menu that fuses street food energy and refined technique, it’s a go-to for afterwork cocktails and dumplings — the FQ team especially enjoyed the prawn dumplings, which are a firm favourite.
MECCA
Bridget says: It’s the ultimate destination for beauty lovers. Not just for the exclusive brands — like NARS, Drunk Elephant, Ellis Faas, Kosas, Hourglass, and Tatcha — but also the expert services on offer. From free 15-minute skin consultations to make-up applications for glam, natural, or even one-on-one lessons.
Kemuri Hi-Fi
Tiffany says: A hidden gem with a distinctly cool vibe, Kemuri Hi-Fi is an intimate bar known for its expertly crafted cocktails and thoughtfully curated drinks list. Not into cocktails? Explore their impressive wine selection, with a special nod to quality champagne, or dive into their range of whiskies.
Get the look – Brand and Strategy Director Bridgett Yee wears:
Superette ‘Moss’ jacket, $369. Wynn Hamlyn ‘Mia Buckle’ mini dress, $550. Moochi laced stocking, $40. Nude ‘Kaylee’ heel, $200, from Flo & Frankie. Jasmin Sparrow ‘Petal’ earrings, $450.
Get the look – Digital Producer Natalia Didovich wears:
Aje ‘Juniper’ gown, $919. Stylist’s own shoes and jewellery.
Origine
Georgia says: Origine is where classic French technique meets the best of New Zealand produce. Everything is beautifully presented and full of flavour in a setting that gives welcome French bistro vibes, which lends itself to a balance between elegance and ease. The highlight? Freshly shucked Pacific oysters with blackberry and basil mignonette.
KOME
Natalia says: When I pulled up a stool at this vibrant sake bar, I knew I was in for a treat. Blending traditional Japanese cuisine with the freshest New Zealand ingredients, KOME offers an innovative menu bursting with flavour. My top picks were definitely the scampi yaki udon and the impossibly fresh sashimi platter.
Rodney Wayne
Sarah says: Whether you’re after a fresh colour and cut or a blow wave before a night out, Rodney Wayne is your go-to. With expert stylists and a reputation for consistently great results, it’s the perfect place to stop. It also offers an ample selection of professional haircare, shampoo, conditioners, and treatments all readily available to purchase.
This article originally appeared in Fashion Quarterly‘s Winter 2025 issue.
Photography: Apela Bell
Creative Direction and Styling: Georgia Bramley
Make-up: Liz Hyun
Hair: Rodney Wayne Commercial Bay
Words: Sarah Murray
