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Unsure where AI fits in your business? Uptown is funding 50 AI for Business licences for members - practical online training that builds confidence and shows your team exactly how to apply AI at work.

El Matador When Dining Out Became an Occasion in Auckland Words: Brent Kennedy Photography: Auckland Libraries Collection 

Meet your Neighbour, Pizza Kai We welcome “Pizza Kai" to the Uptown neighbourhood This week, we caught up with owner Simon Sun to hear about his journey and what inspired him to open in Uptown.

Basque Park Summer Series is back on 21 February, this time serving up a vibrant celebration of Auckland’s Latin community.

Meet your Neighbour, Madam Rat  We welcome “Madam Rat" to the Uptown neighbourhood Uptown caught up with Cindy Chen, owner of Madame Rat. Known for her beautifully curated dried florals and thoughtful homewares, Madam Rat brings a calm, considered presence to the area.

Video & Photo: Dawid Wisniewski On Saturday, locals and visitors came together for a sun-soaked, laid-back afternoon filled with music, markets, performances, workshops, and plenty of good vibes. The day marked the first event in the Basque Park Summer Series , brought to life by Uptown business Anya Vitali Creative Services and local Celia Ruane , whose passion for community and creativity transformed the park into a lively hub for connection and fun. From the natural amphitheatre to the winding paths and shady trees, Basque Park came alive with neighbours, furry friends, and whānau enjoying the eclectic mix of performances and activities. Summer is just beginning and we can’t wait to see everyone back at Basque Park for the next events - so grab your picnic blanket, bring your whānau, and soak up the Uptown vibes!

Basque Park Summer Series, Free Community Event, Saturday 13 December, 11am-3pm. Workshops, performance, markets, food.

Get ready, food lovers — Uptown Bites is here! From 3–16 November , Uptown’s cafes, bars and restaurants are turning up the flavour for two weeks of special dining deals, tastings, and hands-on foodie fun.  Whether you’re after a fine-dining experience, a casual bite, or a creative workshop, Uptown Bites is your invitation to explore the neighbourhood and taste something new. Discover the Flavours of Uptown From iconic fine dining at The French Café (hosting a one-night-only “Celebration of Summer” dinner) and grilled crayfish at Lillius , to authentic Vietnamese favourites at Sen , hearty Korean lunch specials at Han Bite , and great-value café combos across the precinct — there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Cafes are joining in with exclusive Coffee + Something Good offers — think coffee and croissant, or coffee and muffin — all created especially for the festival. Just look for the Uptown Bites poster in participating cafés. Bars are getting involved too, with festival cocktails , happy hour specials , and live music to keep the good vibes going. Workshops and Experiences Uptown Bites isn’t just about eating — it’s about getting hands-on and inspired. Join a champagne tasting in Normanby Wines’ elegant La Cave, a Thai and Lao cooking class at Puen Eatery, or try your hand at a Make Your Own Plate pottery session at Eden Ceramics. There are even free cooking demos at Sabato, and coffee-making lessons with Altezano Brothers and De’Longhi for those who love a good brew. Must-Try Dining Deals Don’t miss these highlights from the festival lineup: R-Toscani’s Mediterranean Feast – three courses for just $50 Needo’s Uptown Bites Menu – pizza or pasta, drink and dessert for $28 Brothers Beer BBQ Platter for Two – plus a tasting paddle each Sen Vietnamese Restaurant – 15% off your meal when you say “Uptown Bites” Schapiro’s Cheeseburger Combo – burger, wings and good times for $21 For something special, book a seat at The French Café’s Celebration of Summer — an intimate four-course evening for just 35 guests. “A Taste of Our Neighbourhood” “Uptown has such a convenient, central location — and you’ll find incredible food for every taste and budget right on your doorstep,” says Brent Kennedy , Precinct Leader of the Uptown Business Association. “Uptown Bites is a great way to experience our neighbourhood vibe, discover somewhere new, and enjoy the creativity and quality our local eateries are known for.” Plan Your Uptown Bites Adventure Check out the full lineup of workshops, tastings and special offers at uptown.co.nz/bites , and follow @uptown_akl on Instagram for updates and foodie inspiration. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee, learning a new skill, or indulging in a multi-course meal, Uptown Bites is your chance to celebrate food, community and creativity — right here in the heart of Auckland.