Five fail-proof dates to go on this Valentine's Day

Lifestyle Mon Feb 5 2018 by Kerrie Felton

The Sporty Date

This is the perfect date if you have a burger, beer and sports loving beau. Grab a delicious burger feast from one of the many great burger joints in Auckland – we LOVE Burger Fuel with its new Gourmet Vege Burgers, Vietnom Burger and whipped ice cream! – then head to Spark Arena or the North Shore Events Centre to catch a Breakers’ game. While there’s no b-ball being played on Valentine’s Day proper, the Breakers are playing the Illawarra Hawks on Friday 16^th – close enough! What better way to top off a sporty night out than with this stunning diamond oval outline pendant from Partridges?

The Nature Date

The zoo makes for a cute date, especially if you and your SO are animal lovers. A fun evening option is to go to Zoo Lates on a Thursday night, when a bunch of awesome animal encounters are available throughout the night. Why not plan a pre- or post-zoo picnic in Western Springs park? With acres of grassland and big shady trees, this is one of Auckland’s prime picnicking spots. Pack your favourite snacks, rugs and cushions and set up a romantic dinner al fresco for two. Such a romantic evening deserves equally as sweet jewellery to match. This pave heart bracelet from Partridges has caught our eye for all the right reasons.

The Adventure Date

For the adventurous-at-heart couple, nothing beats a day out in the Waitakeres. Dense forests, steep hills, million-dollar-views and wild coastline – and it’s all right on our doorstep! Hiking not your thing? A simple way to enjoy some West Coast beauty is by heading out to Karekare Falls. An easy stroll from the main Karekare Beach carpark, these falls form a refreshing swimming pool perfect for whiling away the afternoon in. On your way back from your Waitakere adventure, why not swing by Hallertau Brewery for shared plates, beer tasting and live music? For the adventurous gal who loves something a little different, these Letter of Love pendants from Partridges make the perfect gift.

The Island Date

It may be just 40 minutes away by ferry, but Waiheke Island truly is its own little slice of paradise. Pack sunblock and flat shoes then jump on a ferry from Devonport or the city, and spend the day cruising the many vineyards and restaurants on the island. Lunch amongst the vines is one of the most delightful ways to spend a sunny summer’s afternoon. When you’re done with wining and dining, head to one of the gorgeous beaches dotted around the island for an ice cream and a swim, before heading back across to the big smoke. Simple yet stunning, this white diamond bracelet is set with no less than 11 diamonds and is possibly the most beautiful way to say ‘I Love You’.

The Beach Date

Us Aucklanders are super lucky to have a bevvy of beautiful beaches just a stone’s throw from the city centre, one of which is Mission Bay. Spend an afternoon paddle-boarding along the shore of this stunning urban beach, before grabbing fish and chips at St Heliers, and watching the sun go down. Top off a brilliant day in the sun with a drink at one of the beach front bars along Tamaki Drive. To make this Valentine’s date even more special, top it off with a stunning Chopard Happy Hears pendant with rose gold and mother of pearl, from Partridges.