The Leigh Sawmill Cafe is a relaxed, hidden gem just an hour's drive north of Auckland CBD. It uses locally sourced ingredients to make delicious food, from pancakes and waffles to steaks, freshly shucked oysters, pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The bar is jam-packed and full of local craft beers, and they regularly host live music events on Friday and Saturday nights!

My friends and I often stop by on the way to or from Goat Island Marine Reserve, which is just 10 minutes away. It’s the best spot in the upper North Island for snorkelling and getting close to marine wildlife, so if you’re looking for a perfect day trip, a visit to Goat Island and the Sawmill Cafe is a fab combo!