Legend has it that the seventh daughter of the Heavens, a weaver fairy, fell so deeply in love with a human boy, the cowherd, that they neglected their heavenly and worldly duties. They were thus forced to part - she is represented by the star "Vega" while he is "Altair" - separated by the Milky Way and only reunited once a year on the Night of the Sevens, when magpies would fly to heaven to form a bridge that allows the pair to be together.
Chinese Valentine's Day, also known as "Qixi Festival", falls on 24 August in 2021 and is a time to remember these star-crossed lovers with gifts like chocolates, flowers or a romantic dinner. To help you make this day memorable we've rounded up some suggestions on the best gifts and ways to celebrate this traditional occasion in the city centre.
Exchange a gift with your other half
Britomart Gift Card
Valid in more than 65 of the coolest bars, restaurants and designer stores in the city centre, the Britomart Black Gift Card is valid throughout the Britomart precinct and can be loaded with any amount between $50 and $999. It will give your loved one something to look forward to. See the list of participating retail stores, bars and restaurants the gift card can be redeemed at.
Chocolate Lovers Gift Box from Honest Chocolat
Who doesn't love chocolate? The Chocolate Lovers Gift Box from Honest Chocolat contains a selection of delicious chocolates including chocolate bonbons, fruit jellies, a caramel selection, three chocolate mini tablets, homemade marshmallows, a milk chocolate lollipop and hot chocolate powder. All presented in a gift wrapped box and tied with a ribbon as the perfect finishing touch.
Gift a membership to Auckland Art Gallery
Gift a year of wonder and surprise your loved one with a gift membership at Auckland Art Gallery. Giftees will receive a welcome pack including their membership card, limited-edition tote bag and information on benefits which include free unlimited entry to paid exhibitions, exclusive exhibition previews, member lounge access and many discounts (click here to see the full list of benefits).
Get him a wallet | Rembrandt
Crafted from durable yearling leather, with this practical wallet you will find all the features to organise your belongings, including, both open and zipped note compartments, two windowed pockets, four card slots, and four slide pockets. Don't forget to add a picture of you to make it the perfect gift for him!
Don't forget to get some beautiful flowers | Roma Blooms
Sometimes less is more and a single red rose beautifully presented from Roma Blooms can accentuate the simple elegance of a timeless expression of love.
Treat yourselves with a couple spa treatment
Get a couples Hot Stone Massage | East Day Spa
Show your valentine how special they are by taking them out for a special day of pampering. Enjoy a 75 minute hot stone spa experience. This treatment will relieve stress, and soothe, melt and untangle any knots that you may have in your bodies. A perfect ''us-time'' gift!
Rainforest Revival Ritual | The Spa at Park Hyatt
Revive and refresh with an uplifting sea salt scrub ritual treatment. Relax your mind with a full 90 minute body massage that will release tension and make you feel energised while leaving your skin radiant. A nice gift either for him or her or both.
Take your date out to enjoy some drinks with a view
Sip on delicious rum at Captain's Bar
Sit by the fireplace or on the outdoor terrace and enjoy the stunning views as you sample a fine selection of rums or classic cocktails with a local twist. Sounds pretty romantic to us!
Sip in the views at QT Rooftop Bar
Perched above it all on the sixth floor, Rooftop at QT offers beautiful views out to the harbour and city. Grab a cocktail and enjoy some Mediterranean-inspired snacks. We recommend you try the chorizo, manchego croquettes and the chicken kebab skewers served with garlic sauce - delicious!
Plan a romantic dinner
Want to try something new? | Culprit.
Wander up the narrow staircase at 12 Wyndham Street and step into the enormous loft style space that is Culprit. brought to you by Kyle Street and Jordan MacDonald. Ask for the Trolley menu that includes four seasonal bites and your choice of main. All the flavours and presentation are exceptional!
Feel like you're spending a night in Europe | Vivace
Vivace has been a successful inner city restaurant in Auckland for over 20 years. The environment is lively, offers a warm ambience with excellent table service, a superb wine list and a menu which caters for diverse palates.
Plus August is Restaurant Month and we've made a selection of the best Restaurant Month date night menus. Click here to see what's on offer this August.