City Guide: The founder of Deadly Ponies shares his favourite spots in Auckland
IMAGE VIA @LIAM__BOWDEN/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
“There’s so much nature around, but it’s also a city accessible to the rest of the world.”
Here at Fashion Journal, we want to unearth the hidden spots in Australian cities that only the locals know about. There’s no gatekeeping here – this is a breakdown of the best bits of our cities. We want the underrated date spots, favourite restaurants, treasure trove op shops and the bars people will always want to go back to.
This week, we’re exploring Auckland with Liam Bowden, the founder and creative director of Deadly Ponies. Liam founded the renowned leather accessories label back in 2005 when he began making handbags and jewellery from offcuts in his garage.
Have a trip or move coming up? Head to our city guides to find the best spots.
Almost two decades later and Liam is now joined by his husband and business partner, Stephen Boyd. Together, the duo have led Deadly Ponies to open six stores across Australia and New Zealand, with the brand widely celebrated for its commitment to quality and sustainable design. But despite his global success, Liam will always call Auckland home.
“I’ve lived in Auckland all my life,” Liam says. “…All my family and my friends live here. I love the fact that within half an hour’s drive, you’re at the beach or in the middle of the forest. There’s so much nature around, but it’s also a city accessible to the rest of the world, so if I need a break, I can get one.” Read on for his Auckland recommendations.
Eat
Annabel’s Wine Bar, 277 Ponsonby Road
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For food, one of Liam’s favourites is Annabel’s, a neighbourhood wine bar, coffee shop and bistro serving small plates and artisanal vino. “We love it because it feels like a little slice of Italy,” Liam says. “It’s a little wine bar that also does great food.”
Modicum Cafe, Dacre Street, Eden Terrace
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Another favourite of Liam’s is Modicum Cafe, which does “delicious food and coffee”. Serving up a seasonal variety of pastries, sandwiches and small plates, the cafe is located conveniently right next to the Deadly Ponies HQ.
At Bangkok, 438 New North Road, Kingsland
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In terms of cuisine, Liam loves Thai food, so recommends “any Thai restaurant”. In particular, “At Bangkok in Kingsland is delicious”. Offering everything from tom yum soup to curry puffs, At Bangkok serves up authentic meals that don’t compromise on flavour.
Shop
The Ponsonby area
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The Ponsonby area is always the best for a shop. For homewares, Milly’s Kitchen is amazing, and I consistently walk out with something new. Workshop is a clothing store right next to our Ponsonby flagship [store], so I always pop in there and they have a great selection of menswear.
The perfect day
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“It would start with a walk through Coxes Bay to Ozone Cafe for a coffee, followed up by a workout and then brunch at Honey Bones. I’d go for a spa at the Park Hyatt on the waterfront, then a couple of drinks with friends and an afternoon shop in Britomart. Finally, I would finish at Kingi for dinner.
Relax
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When it comes to self-care, Liam heads to Studio Red for yoga, Hana for a spa and “well-being” or The Facialist to secure a bespoke glow. For transformative results, combine all three for the ultimate day of indulgence.
Celebrate
The Engine Room, 115 Queen Street, Northcote Point
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When it’s time to celebrate a big moment, Liam holds a tradition of going to The Engine Room. “The food is amazing there, and it’s a very homely space – which I like,” Liam says.
Keep up with Liam and Deadly Ponies here.
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