Parnell is an inner-city suburb of Auckland City, New Zealand. It is renowned for its vibrant culture as well as for its expansive green spaces. With something for everyone, there are numerous things to do and places to go, making it the ideal spot for a first date.
1. Parnell parks and places for a walk on a first date
One of the best things to do on a first date in Parnell is to take a stroll and explore the green spaces. The village green, situated in the heart of Parnell, is a park filled with gardens and diverse flora and fauna. It's the perfect spot for a romantic stroll as it offers a peaceful setting. In addition to this, the Parnell Rose Gardens boast more than 20,000 roses and offer one of the most picturesque walks in the city.
2. Places for a coffee date in Parnell
If you are looking for a cozy place to spend time with your date, then Parnell has some great places to grab a coffee. Dizengoff is perfect for a romantic date as it offers a cozy atmosphere along with a delicious selection of pastries and cakes. Another spot for coffee lovers is Crave Café, a charming café filled with books, art and antiques. It's the ideal spot for getting to know one another and having some stimulating conversation.
3. Parnell galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Parnell is home to some of the most interesting galleries, museums, and exhibitions in Auckland. The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki features a range of contemporary artworks and paintings, which is a great way to get to know each other's tastes in art. Meanwhile, the Parnell Trust museum offers an insight into the history of the district with its interactive displays. Lastly, the Robert Best Gallery offers a unique and beautiful collection of works from New Zealand and international artists.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Parnell
Parnell has a great selection of live music and entertainment to choose from. If you're looking for something a bit different than the usual, then why not head to the St. Matthew-in-the-City for a night of comedy and music. Meanwhile, the Parnell Jazz & Blues Club hosts live performances from some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the city. For something a little more low-key, take your date to the local library for a night of live music or a poetry reading.
5. Parnell pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a meal and a drink, then Parnell has plenty of options. The Beekeeper is a cozy spot with a diverse selection of craft beer and cocktails, as well as a menu of delicious food. For a romantic dinner, head to The French Café, a fine-dining establishment renowned for its French-inspired cuisine. For something a bit more casual, The Parnell Inn offers a range of pub food and drinks in a relaxed setting.
6. Other date ideas to try in Parnell
Other than the typical dinner and drinks, Parnell has plenty of other activities for a fun first date. The Auckland Botanic Gardens offer a serene and tranquil setting for a picnic date. Alternatively, head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum for a fascinating insight into the city's history. For something more adventurous, take your date on a bike ride or roller-skating adventure around the city. There is also a range of outdoor activities to choose from, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.
