Sitka

Surf culture is well and truly back on Ponsonby Road and Sitka's seriously cool new look is well in keeping with having a now-permanent home on Auckland's most stylish strip. I love the fact that Andy and his crew are all about sustainability and community. This is the place to go to buy a wetsuit that ain't gonna hurt the environment or to get locally shaped surfboards and even sunglasses with wood frames. For conscious consumers, it's a must to check out.

best thing about SITKA is they stock TOMS shoes: a shoe company with a great ethos ..buy a pair and another pair is given to children in need in the world! And they are insanely comfortable shoes.

The first time I wandered into Sitka was to buy a b-card a few weeks ago.  I had heard the ads on BFM for a while and, even though I live in Newmarket, had never ventured in. The space is lovely - very inviting - with a rustic feel to the shop thanks to all the recycled materials, wood and plants that have been used. The owner is very friendly and helpful and not at all pushy ( I think there might be more than one owner - perhaps a couple? - but only met the guy).  They have some very 'cool' clothes and I will definitely be back for some winter shopping next year.

Unique apparel from the west coast of Canada - the shop is a gorgeous, comfortable space reminiscent of a log cabin, plus they've got a coffee machine, super-nice staff, and always good music playing! They also host events like art openings and music performances which are usually accompanied by beer & wine. Definitely worth dropping in!