From sunglasses and footwear to pool toys and more, we've complied a list of great summer finds in the city centre, check them out below. 

A summer read | Unity Books, 19 High Street 
Whether you're enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning, relaxing on the beach or picnicing in the park, it's always a good idea to have a book in hand. With one of the best collections of books in Auckland, Unity Books is the best place to pick up your summer reads. From obscure and interesting to classic titles, there's something for everyone. 

Japanese Igusa basket, $190 | Wonder Journal, 8 Te Ara Tahuhu 
Nestled in the Britomart Pavilions, Wonder Journal celebrates curated ceramics, jewellery, accessories and homewares from Japanese and New Zealand designers. These beautifully crafted bags are traditionally handmade in Japan and make for a great summer accessory. 

Sugar Sliders, $80 | Allbirds, 5 Gore Street 
If you're after a new summer slider, Allbirds Sugar Sliders are a great option! These unisex slides with a perfect blend of bounce & cushion are made from sustainable sugarcane, making them the world's first carbon negative green slides! 
 

Allbirds Sugar Sliders
Customers looking through books
Wonder Journal

Pool Ring Gliter, $59.99 | Shut The Front Door, 23 High St
Whether you’re lazing in the pool or lounging in the ocean, a floatie is a fantastic essential to have on hand. This pool ring from Shut the Front Door has a cute tie-dye pattern – ideal for a ‘gram-worthy shot! Buy it here.

Sun Care Duet, $110 | Aesop, 35 High Street 
Sunning yourself is a great way to get vitamin D, but it’s important to keep your skin safe. Enter this dynamic duo. Dedicated to sun lovers, this duet from Aēsop offers pre and post-sun care. They’re lightweight, long-lasting and with key ingredients of spearmint, lemon and lavender, smell delicious! Buy it here

Birkenstocks, $120-$300 | Pat Menzies, Canterbury Arcade, 174 Queen Street
You won’t have to sacrifice comfort for style with a pair of Birks. They’ve become a summer staple that can take you wherever the day goes. From neutral tones that complement any outfit to attention-grabbing statement shoes, Pat Menzies has a range to choose from. Head in-store to try them on or shop online here

Shut The Front Door pool toy
Aesop Sun Care Duet
Birkenstocks at Pat Menzies

Flo & Frankie Dress, $189.90 | Flo & Frankie | 7 Queen St 
This pure cotton maxi dress pairs perfectly with sandals, sneakers or heels and is a modern take on a summer classic. Think alternating blue and white stripes, a tiered skirt and adjustable straps that can be turned into a statement bow. Perfect for sunset drinks and long summer days. Buy it here.

Roamer Roll Up Picnic Rug, $49.98 | Kathmandu | 151 Queen Street
With two fun prints to choose from, waterproof backing and a functional carry handle, this rug is funky and practical. Whether you’re heading to the beach or hiking up a mountain, it’s a great addition to your summer adventures. Buy it here.

Big Kanye Sunglasses, $79 | RUBY, 4 High Street
Keep stylish and sun smart! If you’re into cat eyes that have sharp edges, soft transitions and a slightly larger reinterpretation of this classic silhouette, look no further. Buy them here.

Flo & Frankie dress
Ruby sunglasses
Kathmandu picnic rug

Travelling Billlfish Shorts, $109.99 | Just Another Fisherman, Commercial Bay 
For the person who’s always on or near the water this summer, these are the perfect blend of style and practicality. There’s plenty of pockets for storing small essentials, the neutral colour is effortlessly stylish and the embroidery adds a fun twist. Buy it here. 

Robin White Loqi Shopper, $28 | Auckland Art Gallery Store, Wellesley Street East
Fish n’ Chips is classic Kiwi summer fare. This bag features an iconic painting of an essential summer experience. Grab yourself one of these and you’ll never be caught short of a bag when picking up the takeaways. Buy it here.

Boccce Set, $69 or Beach Bats, $49 | Superette, Commercial Bay 
Round up the family and try your hand at some backyard batting or bowling. Perfect for the whole family, they’ll be sure to bring out everyone’s competitive streaks. Winner gets the last slice of pavlova! Shop online here and here

Superette beach toys
Auckland Art Gallery Bag
Just Another Fisherman shorts
Last updated: 20 December 2023

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