Move over Kingsland, there's a new cool kid on the Auckland block - Ponsonby!
Yep, Ponsonby just got a major coolness upgrade after snagging the 33rd spot on Time Out Magazine's list of the world's coolest neighbourhoods in 2023.
Time Out gave a shoutout to Ponsonby Road for being "lined with independent boutiques and galleries showcasing artists and designers from around New Zealand."
“Ponsonby thrums with activity round the clock.”
Special shoutouts were mentioned for Daily Bread, Deadshot Bar, Orphan’s Kitchen, The Poi Room, Tatty’s, Ponsonby Central and Hotel Fitzroy.
Each year, Time Out releases its official rankings of the top 40 neighbourhoods people love for their amazing food, drink and culture. Basically, where are people going out, hanging out and having fun?
But, with this fab new title, one Auckland suburb has been left high and dry.
Last year, Kingsland was New Zealand’s favourite child after earning its place on the UK magazine’s coolness list.
Time Out was dishing out all the praises for its "eclectic food scene" and "Bohemian vibe."
So, with all the attention switched to Auckland’s new popular suburb, what do the locals of Kingsland have to say about it?
Well, it's mixed! Some people couldn't care less, while others are bummed with the passing of the coolness torch.
"Kingsland is a bit more laid back, a bit more chilled out, not as ‘Ponsnobby’ if you will. It's a bit more cliquey in Ponsonby. I find it easier to talk to people here,” one Kingslander told Stuff.
Another added: “I used to go to Ponsonby quite a lot when I was Tindering so it was good for first dates, but Kingsland is good to hang around with your mates and there are more sports bars.”
Kingsland locals pointed out all the pros of their neighbourhood; Public transport? Check. Train station? Yup. Eden Park a stone's throw away? You bet. Multiple pubs? Absolutely. And, let's not forget the unbeatable community vibe.
So, the battle for the coolest neighbourhood continues. We're sure many Kiwis around the country are raging that their suburb didn't even get a look in, but I guess coolness is what you make of it, right?
