When the weekend calls for an escape from the city, destinations such as Kumeu, Riverhead or even Matakana now have a new rival, Whenuapai, a burgeoning community that’s undergone some exceptional evolution of late thanks to developers Oyster Capital. Situated adjacent to the newly developed Hobsonville Point, The Parkhouse is an enticing new destination eatery, that is giving us good reason to hit the road. The impressive locale is the work of experienced hospitality duo Natasha Macindoe and Roy Bell, responsible for various Auckland eateries including Queen Street’s sophisticated Middleton hideaway.

Inspired, in part, by their new child-centric lifestyle, the pair wanted to create the sort of eatery that would accommodate both the childless and the child-laden. As a result, The Parkhouse serves relaxed fare in family-friendly surrounds. Having completely gutted and redecorated the standalone ivory villa, the multifaceted space features a light-filled loggia with a beautifully tiled concrete floor, and an interior characterised by wicker basket lights and generous tables around which to share delicious dishes that are at once elevated and simple.

For now, they are working with an all-encompassing brunch menu that takes you from an open omelette with serrano ham, pickled mustard and gremolata to the lunch-worthy ‘one-handers’ — a fish wrap, beef short-rib burger, or build-your-own sandwich. The savoury bowls employ a delicious medley of either quinoa or cauliflower as their base, with the option to add a side of salmon, pork belly, maple bacon, poached eggs or halloumi. Each order is as well-rounded as the next.

With access to the impressive Whenuapai Settlement playground — a perfect spot to let the young ones burn off some energy — and a presiding ethos of ‘casualness’, we know where we’ll be heading when the weekend rolls around.  

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday, 7am-4pm
Saturday & Sunday, 8am-4pm