A Slow Guide to Auckland with Cassidy Lockwood from The Local Project
Auckland as a city has many faces, but the one Cassidy sees is subtle. She speaks about it with a kind of fond attentiveness: the hush of neighbourhood streets, the comfort of being near the water, the quiet creativity that hums through its architecture and design culture. For someone whose work revolves around observing space, light, and thoughtful restraint, Auckland offers a steady and generous source of inspiration.
Cassidy moves through her days with slow early mornings, grounding rituals, and a deep appreciation for the designers and makers who continue to shape New Zealand’s creative landscape. Here, she shares the places, the practices, and the gentle rhythms that make Auckland, for her, not just somewhere to live, but a true sense of home.
How would you describe the city of Auckland?
My interpretation of Auckland is that it has this quiet energy about it. You never really feel the rush or chaos that big cities can have. Even in its busiest spots, there’s always somewhere to retreat to, little neighbourhood pockets that feel calm and familiar. We’re incredibly lucky to have a city that’s so close to the water, it gives everything a certain ease. I love Auckland, the people, the food, the design, the culture. There’s a lot of creative depth here, and I think it’s a city that continues to surprise you the more time you spend in it.
Which parts of Auckland feel most like a quiet retreat or a place to recharge?
For me, it’s always somewhere near the ocean. I grew up on the Hibiscus Coast, which was a true beach town when I was younger. It’s changed a lot since then, but it still feels like home, maybe it’s because my family is still there, or the memories of walking to school barefoot with sand between my toes.
When I go back now there’s a real sense of calm. The evenings are quiet and familiar, and it’s one of the few places where I can completely switch off.
How does Auckland’s architecture, design, and creative culture influence your work?
It influences my work constantly. I work for The Local Project, an architectural and design publication based in Sydney, but with a strong presence here in New Zealand. The design community in Auckland and across the country is incredibly talented. The work coming out of New Zealand easily stands alongside the best globally. I think that comes from how connected our architects and designers are to the landscape. There’s a real understanding of materiality, light, and restraint that feels very New Zealand. Being surrounded by that level of creativity and thoughtfulness is inspiring, both personally and in my work.
Simon James Showroom
Are there local designers or makers whose work you keep returning to for inspiration?
It’s honestly hard to name just a few local designers I admire; I find inspiration in so many. But if I had to name a few, I would say Katie Lockhart, Rufus Knight, Simon James, Georgia Currie from Flowers, and Olivia Cashmore. They all have such a distinct approach to design, thoughtful and refined.
Flowers by Georgia Currie
Olivia Cashmore
Beau Deli
Can you share a few of your favourite cafés, galleries, or shops?
I live in Ponsonby, so I’m spoiled for choice. My favourite café would have to be Beau Deli, it’s a nice walk from home and perfect for a morning coffee. Juno, which recently opened as a wine bar, does an amazing matcha (the best I’ve ever had.) And Mother is a new spot that’s quickly become a favourite, the interiors and bakery are beautiful.
When it comes to shopping, Simon James in Herne Bay is always my go to. The interiors, the curation, the brands, everything feels so considered. Their Newmarket store and the furniture and lighting showroom are also worth visiting. The spaces were designed by Rufus Knight and Keshaw McArthur, and they have done an incredible job, the design alone is worth the visit.
Juno
Are there wellness spaces, spa practitioners, or healers in Auckland that you return to for balance?
I recently saw an incredible acupuncturist named Virginia at Ponsonby Wellness. She’s so genuine and grounded in her practice. I felt completely safe in her hands, and I truly believe the treatment made a difference.
How do you create a sanctuary at home?
Our home really is a sanctuary. Even though we live centrally, it feels tucked away, quiet and calm. The house was designed by Guy Tarrant, alongside my husband’s mother, and they did such a beautiful job with light.
Throughout the day, the sun moves through the house in this really special way, the light creates these patterns and shadows on the walls and floors that constantly change. My favourite is when the light flickers across the ceiling; it’s such a small thing, but I often find myself sitting still just watching i
Anna Jane Pilates
Are there parks or corners of the city that always make you pause and take notice?
We get the most beautiful sunset from the back of our house, and for me, that’s always a moment where I stop and take it all in. It’s almost like this small pause in the evening.
Do you have daily or weekly rituals that help you stay centred?
I’m a bit of a Pilates addict. There’s a studio in Herne Bay called Anna Jane Pilates and the classes are unlike anything else I’ve done. The method Anna teaches is amazing, the results speak for themselves, but it’s also just a beautiful way to move and reset. I also love walking early in the mornings. It’s my time to connect and slow down before the day begins. My work can be quite digital, so being outside, seeing the sunrise, coffee or matcha in hand really centres me.
If someone had just one day to experience a slower, more considered Auckland, what would your itinerary include?
I would recommend renting a car and heading west to Piha or Muriwai. The walks out there are incredible, and the energy feels completely different, the air, the waves, the black sand, the wild landscape. It’s raw and grounding.
I’d say go for a walk, take your time, and really soak in the environment. It’s a side of Auckland that feels almost otherworldly, and it’s pretty special.
Where is your favourite place to escape to outside of the city?
Mangawhai, without a doubt. I’ve been going up north with my family for as long as I can remember and it holds so many special memories. Our family keeps growing, so it’s been really nice spending more time up there and making new memories. I love being by the ocean, and Mangawhai captures that relaxed beach feel perfectly. It’s the ideal balance to city life, close enough to get to easily, but far enough to feel completely away.
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