Dai Henwood
Why I love Auckland
How long have you lived in your town?
I am born and raised in Wellington and very proud of the fact. I have been living in Auckland for the last 15 years.
How often are you based there?
Fulltime at the moment, over the last few years I have been constantly travelling around this beautiful country doing gigs in all sorts of nooks and crannies. Family Feud has meant it is time to lock myself down.
What attracted you to the area?
I live in Avondale in Auckland. I love the area. It has a vibrant culture, awesome markets and we have met so many great local people. I have to confess the house price was also a deciding factor.
How would you describe your town in three words?
Fun, crazy unpredictable.
What is something that you think would surprise people about your town?
You can wear pyjamas wherever you like.
Where is the first place you would take visiting family and friends?
Ponsonby Rd. My first 10 years in Auckland were spent living in the Ponsonby-Grey Lynn area. Ponsonby Rd has such good shopping, eating and a vibe it is a great place to kick off a stay in Auckland.
Where is the best place to shop? Best place to eat? Best watering hole?
For Clothes, Barkers on High St, and Commoners on Ponsonby Rd, Ostro and Depot are great for eating as well as any of the places in Ponsonby Central. Whet your whistle at Tyler Street Garage or The Avondale RSA.
Best day trip in the area?
Get on a Ferry! Pick an island and go. Love Waiheke for a long lunch on a sunny day. My son and I had a great day trip to Devonport. With young kids the ferry is so much part of the adventure.
What are your favourite outdoor activities?
Playing cricket. I play in the Last Man Stands competition. Perfect way to while away the summer evenings with some friends. Also love running around the neighbourhood.
What’s an event people shouldn’t miss in your town?
Come watch us film Family Feud (weekdays on TV3) or 7 Days! Tickets are free and what goes on behind the camera is sometimes more fun than what makes it to air!
What could we find you doing on your days off?
Relaxing with family. Outings to the zoo and the museum are always on the cards. Motat (Museum of Transport and Technology) is also a great place to cruise around on a day off.
Finally, do you have any secret spots or hidden gems in your town that people should know about?
I don’t know if it is hidden but people are surprised when I tell them about Auckland Observatory. Great shows and learning about space is fun.
‘I love the area. It has a vibrant culture, awesome markets and we have met so many great local people.’ Dai Henwood