Emilia Wickstead's Guide to Auckland: Breathtaking Beaches, Kiwi Designers, and More

Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we're tapping notable locals in the style space to share a tight list of their top recommendations of what to see, eat, and shop in their home city. They'll share off-the-radar recs that you won't find in your average guidebook, resulting in digestible mini guides revealing where the city's most fashionable residents are actually hanging out.

Since she founded her eponymous label in 2008, the name Emilia Wickstead has become a pillar of the British fashion community and a mainstay on the London Fashion Week calendar. But despite her brand's London address, Wickstead isn’t English by birth—she grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, before moving to Milan with her mother as a teenager. It wasn't until she enrolled in the fashion design program at Central Saint Martins that she found her way to London, where she's resided ever since.

Over the last 15 years, Wickstead has led her brand on a meteoric trajectory. The designer's singular vision of modern femininity and ability to capture a sense of both power and youthfulness has earned her many accolades including the Elle Style Award for Red Carpet Designer of the Year in 2014. She's dressed everyone from British royalty to Hollywood's elite, including Kate Middleton, Gigi Hadid, and Alexa Chung. Most recently, she's returned to her New Zealand roots to design the new uniforms for more than 5000 Air New Zealand crew and staffers.

We caught up with Wickstead to discuss coming home, her newest design project, and her ultimate guide to the best spots in Auckland—where to dine, what to see, and of course, where to shop.

To what extent is Auckland home for you, and how often do you return?

Auckland is definitely home. I lived here until I was 14, and I grew up in the city, just myself and my mom. When my mother married an Italian, we moved to Italy, and then after I lived there for four years, I then went to university in the UK.

I come back every year. I have a very large family here. It's always so great for the soul. I think when you live in New Zealand, you either travel a lot, or you sort of don't. I never traveled, really, when I lived here. The most I traveled was to go to the beach. So it's really special to come back and see everybody every year, and I think important now for my kids as well.

Although you and your brand are based in London, to what extent do your Kiwi roots inform your collections?

Even though I left at 14, New Zealand is home for me. When I think about the way that I started my business and just everything that I've done, I think New Zealand has been a big part of that. I watched my mother started her fashion business here. She had different stores, and before we left, my bedroom was above her studio, so it was very much instilled in me. That kind of resilience, that roll-up-your-sleeves attitude, that sort of don't-take-no-for-an-answer work ethic, I think definitely has come from my upbringing here.

Why were you excited to partner with Air New Zealand to design its new staff uniforms?

I use the expression all roads lead to home, and I think that coming back home to do something for my country, especially something shown on a global stage for Air New Zealand, is something that I feel very passionate about. To represent our heritage, to tell our story through design and through print on the uniform, and to stand our ground and make some noise in a very beautiful design-led way was very exciting for me. It's definitely a heartfelt project and something that I've wanted to do for a really long time.

Which Emilia Wickstead style codes were you most passionate about bringing over into these uniforms?

What's very important to me is the tailoring aspect. The amount of time and energy and fittings that go into that, the tailoring, the detail, and the tailoring even just like there's a little hand-sewn-in detail all through the lapels. You know, I've played on tradition, and I want people to feel like it's the best suit that they've ever put on. And then also when you open it, so when you talk about, like little style details, the playfulness that your New Zealand represents, but also in a very sophisticated color palette.

It's little subtle details. I always believe with design that everything should feel effortless. I also believe in the power of timelessness and that this might last 12 years, but it might last 22 years. Everything as I do as a brand has an element of playfulness. I always say it will have a twist. It will feel feminine. It will feel strong. It will empower people and give them confidence. Those are all our style codes, and so I've translated that into a uniform for an airline, so it feels very true to our brand.

What would you want foreigners coming to visit New Zealand to know about Māori culture and New Zealand culture at large?

I'd love them to understand our mana, which basically means a sense of respect. I think that there's so much to Māori culture and heritage that is very spiritual, and like I said, storytelling is such a big part of our culture. I would love to think that when you get on a flight and you look at all of this, that maybe the crew speak to what is represented within their uniform. They talk about the renewal, the resilience, and the tapestry of the sky, the sea, and the land and what that represents.

What to Pack

"Auckland has so many amazing restaurants popping up in neighborhoods across the city. Every time I go home, I’m so impressed by the quality of the dining scene. In particular, Bianca in Ellerslie is an absolute gem. This charming Italian restaurant offers the most divine, authentic dishes that transport you straight to Italy. A hidden treasure that I can't recommend enough for anyone craving genuine Italian flavours in Auckland."

"Simon James is a haven for beautifully crafted homewares, accessories, and fashion. (They also stock Emilia Wickstead.) His collection of art and design pieces is unmatched—each item feels like a statement piece that adds personality to any home. I always find something that speaks to me when I’m there."

"The Boatshed Hotel on Waiheke Island is simply divine. Its intimate, relaxed vibe and breathtaking views make it feel like you’re staying in a luxurious yet welcoming home. It’s my personal escape while in Auckland."

"Waiheke Island is a must-visit. Its spectacular wineries, stunning beaches, and laid-back Kiwi charm make it a place you can’t miss. Whether you’re soaking in the views or sipping on local wine, it’s a quintessential Auckland experience."

"Lilian in Grey Lynn never fails to impress. Their woodfired bread and pizza are truly a masterpiece, but the anchovies paired with caramelised butter and flatbread is an unforgettable menu item. It’s simply a must-try when in the city."

"New Zealand coffee is second to none! It’s something I miss when I’m away and always look forward to as soon as I’m back. Ozone in Grey Lynn is my go-to for a morning coffee. Their expertly brewed coffee paired with a delicious breakfast is the perfect way to start the day. The atmosphere is always warm and inviting, making it the ideal spot to unwind."

"Caretaker does a brilliant job with cocktails. Their attention to detail and creativity always hits the mark. Whether you’re after something classic or a little adventurous, it’s the perfect place to indulge in your favorite drink. Simply brief the bartender on your taste preferences and they will whip up something unique for you."

"Ponsonby is the ultimate spot for a fashionable day out. With its chic boutiques, bustling cafés, and beautiful architecture, it’s the perfect place to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere. I especially love sitting at one of the curbside tables at Beau. You can’t help but be part of the vibrant scene here."

"Piha Beach, a serene 45-minute drive from Auckland, is one of the city’s most beautiful spots. The dramatic black sand and wild beauty of the coastline make it one of the most picturesque beaches in Auckland and an idyllic place to unwind and watch the sunset—a truly tranquil escape into nature."

"The Auckland Art Gallery is a constant source of inspiration. The range of contemporary and classical art is exceptional, and it’s a place where I always discover something new that sparks my creativity. A true cultural treasure."

"Vixen Vintage is one of my favorite places for finding something unique. From timeless clothing to one-of-a-kind accessories, it’s a treasure trove for anyone who loves a bit of vintage magic. I always leave with something special."