Matilda Chua will be performing in Tim Bray Theatre Company’s Santa Claus Show ‘24 at The Pumphouse Theatre from December 1–22 and Auckland Shakespeare in the Park from January 18-February 15, 2025. Photo / Supplied
In this Herald on Sunday series, we ask well-known Aucklanders for their favourite spots in the city. This week, Matilda Chua takes us on a tour of her top places.
Favourite beach?
I haven’t visited enough of the beaches around Auckland yet to have a favourite. But growing up out east, I used to enjoy walking along or just sitting on Eastern Beach. It was really calming.
Favourite brunch spot?
Dear Jane. It’s in my neighbourhood, there’s always such a friendly and welcoming vibe, and the food never disappoints.
Favourite restaurant for dinner with friends?
Gganbu on Jervois Rd. It was one of the first places my friends brought me to when I moved back to Auckland last year. Their portions make it great for sharing.
Favourite place to take a visitor to?
Depends on the visitor! My friends tend to be theatre or museum people, so we’ll be checking out what shows are on or what exhibitions are at the Auckland Museum or Art Gallery. If Improverished are putting on “Can I Get an Underground Location and a Mythical Creature?” we’re definitely going!
Favourite spot to finish a night out?
Definitely ending the night curled up at home on the couch with my cat, Zuko.
Favourite place to get coffee?
I’m more of a tea than coffee drinker. Cosmo Coffee does a good chai latte and they’ve also got a great selection of croissants.
Favourite fish-and-chip shop?
Nana’s Fish House! So much flavour!
Favourite trail for a hike?
The Kepler track has some of the most gorgeous views I’ve seen. And I actually haven’t had the chance to do this yet, but I’d really like to head out to the Waitākere Ranges and hike out to Kitekite Falls.
Favourite venue for a gig?
Not really a gig venue, but the Dolphin Theatre in Onehunga is one of my favourite places to catch a show. I love that Dolphin does free tea (and coffee) during intervals and their Tuesday Treats gets you a drink and ice cream with your ticket.
Favourite place to find a bargain?
Is it weird to say Facebook Marketplace? For me, half the fun of finding a bargain is being able to haggle on the price.
Matilda Chua will be performing in Tim Bray Theatre Company’s Santa Claus Show ‘24 at The Pumphouse Theatre from December 1–22 and Auckland Shakespeare in the Park from January 18 -February 15, 2025.
'It’s like they’ve been secretly studying for 20 years longer than the rest of the world.'