SO/ Auckland - Luxury hotel - 48 hours in Auckland: The ultimate weekend itinerary

Never one to stand still for long, from the neon streets of Miami to Paris’ most iconic arrondissements, Nadia Fairfax-Wayne leads a life well-travelled. Closer to home, the Sydney-born fashion influencer recently set off to Auckland, New Zealand, for the ultimate weekend escape, hosted by SO/Auckland.

An inimitable charm and energy has seen Nadia carve out a successful career as a fashion and lifestyle creative, as well as It-girl status among Australia’s fashion set. Playful yet sophisticated, not afraid of colour and just a little bit quirky, she perfectly captures the spirit of SO/.

Nadia’s weekend itinerary

A woman of style, splitting her time between Sydney, New York, and exotic destinations, Nadia’s good taste extends to her travels, too. Joined by friends, Elliot Garnaut, Montarna Pitt and Caroline Tran, Nadia’s itinerary reflected her inherent passion for fashion, food, and fun.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, Nadia’s weekend ahead will serve up all the inspiration you need for a chic break in the City of Sails.

First things first, checking into the SO Lofty Suite immediately sets the tone for your stay.
The epitome of elegance, with plenty of spaces to stay,play, and relax, it’s got all the right elements for a memorable weekend.

Rooted in contemporary design, SO/Auckland features five distinct décor options, inspired by Auckland’s volcanic origin.
The Lofty Suite, with its exclusive Caldera theme, is dressed in opulent gold and turquoise tones, complemented by avant-garde interiors
and bespoke pieces by esteemed New Zealand designer, WORLD.

Eat Brunch on-the-go from Amano

If a day of exploring is on the cards, grab brunch to go from Auckland CBD’s pre-eminent brunch destination, Amano. Just a three-minute, heel-approved stroll from SO/, the artisan bakery’s fresh pastries and savoury bites with pressed juice or expertly crafted coffee, will fuel your day.

Cocktail Hour at HI-SO Rooftop

Of course, the ideal social prelude to an evening with friends begins with an aperitif and HI-SO, with its panoramic Waitematā Harbour and cityscape views, is Auckland’s best spot to do just that. From the skilled mixologists on hand to delectable small plates designed to share (in case you’re a bit peckish), the rooftop inner-city oasis has all the ingredients – in every sense—for the perfect night out.

Dinner at Onslow by Josh Emett

Auckland is home to a vibrant culinary scene and distinguished New Zealand chef Josh Emett is one of the brains at its helm. The restaurateur’s most recent venture, Onslow, should rank top on the list of any trip to Auckland. Like SO/Auckland, an easy elegance touches everything at Onslow. Warning: You may come for the famous crayfish eclairs and martini trolley but you’ll stay on long into the night.

Relax SO / SPA

Every weekend holiday itinerary should allow time for a little R&R. Thankfully, you don’t have to travel far to escape. Feel a world away in the city at Auckland’s urban wellness destination, SO / SPA. Indulge in a treatment (or two) of your choice before retreating to the relaxation room to bask in the Himalayan salt wall and refresh with a signature herbal tea of your choice. If your schedule allows, be sure to take a dip in the 20-metre, luxury heated lap pool, followed by the jacuzzi or Finnish sauna.

Shop Maggie Marilyn, Britomart Precinct

Take style cues from Nadia with a visit to Auckland’s premier fashion hotspots.
In Britomart, just two minute’s walk from SO/, find the flagship boutique of acclaimed New Zealand label, Maggie Marilyn. With wood-lined reeded glass panels, sliding wardrobes and home-like furnishings, it’s a must-visit for any style aficionado. It’s an intimate and relaxed environment to shop her latest capsule collection, with timeless design and sustainable practice at the heart of each piece.

FARADAYS Luxury Department Store, Parnell

A multi-faceted fashion and lifestyle concept store, FARADAYS showcases a thoughtful curation of iconic luxury fashion, footwear, homeware, and fragrances. Labels include some of the world’s most sought-after brands, from Givenchy and Loewe to Alexandre Vauthier and Christian Louboutin. Make no mistake: this is not your standard retail experience. The full-service emporium also has an in-house floristry and bar,
featuring a covetable list of fine wines and champagnes.

Visit Tantalus Estate, Waiheke Island

Dubbed New Zealand’s ‘Isle of Wine’, Waiheke has no shortage of exceptional eateries to wine and dine. Hop on the passenger ferry, five minutes’ from SO/, or take your weekend to new heights (literally) and arrive via helicopter. The award-winning Tantalus Estate is one of the Island’s most popular restaurants. Established in 2016, the premium vineyard estate is a renowned location for world-class cuisine, wine tasting and craft beer.

Recharge

While more than just a place to rest one’s, your ticket to a luxurious sleep is a given at SO/Auckland. After a day of discovering the city’s sights, surrender yourself to the comforts of your room, complete with state-of-the-art entertainment tech, the signature MyBed™, and breathtaking views.

So, you want what she’s having?

Good news! Inspired by Nadia’s itinerary, we’ve curated a package so you too can do Auckland in style.

Inclusions:
– Two nights’ stay in a suite with breakfast included
– Helicopter to and from Waiheke
– Lunch at Tantalus

Book now!