The Washington Post names Karangahape Road as New Zealand's most 'infamous' street

  • 19/01/2024
Karangahape Road
Karangahape Road Photo credit: RNZ

The Washington Post has declared Auckland's Karangahape Road as the "most infamous street" in New Zealand, in one of its latest articles.  

The US news site did a deep dive on K Road and why it is a must-see spot in Aotearoa due to its "checkered history".  

In the article, K Road is labelled as "one of the most interesting places to visit in Auckland" with a step-by-step guide to getting the most out of your time wandering the beloved street.  

It's not the first time K Road has been in the international spotlight, with Time Out naming it the sixth coolest street in the world in 2022, describing it as the "bohemian heart" of Auckland.  

In The Washington Post's latest feature, the paper highlighted five must-sees worth a visit on K Road.  

Crushes, Karangahape Road
Crushes, Karangahape Road Photo credit: Instagram

First up was Crushes, a vintage and secondhand store that has captivated Kiwis since opening in 2011. The store proudly sources sustainably and makes an effort to bring in female-owned, indigenous and/or socially conscious brands.  

Tautai Gallery was the next spot dubbed as a 'must see' by the Post.  

The Washington Post names Karangahape Road as New Zealand's most 'infamous' street
Photo credit: RNZ

The space pays tribute to Pacific Island communities that flourished on K Road in the 1960s before it was gentrified.  

Cocos Cantina
Cocos Cantina Photo credit: Facebook

Coco's Cantina is next on the list, branded as an "unpretentious but tasty" spot.  

"The cheerfully mismatched decor and warm staff make going for dinner at Coco's feel like dropping by a friend's place," the feature stated, praising its "no-fuss rustic cuisine" and happy hour pasta. 

Caluzzi Cabaret
Caluzzi Cabaret Photo credit: Facebook

Caluzzi Drag Cabaret is hard to miss with its hot pink exterior and vibrant feel.  

The Washington Post stated the servers double as entertainers in an energetic and unforgettable interactive experience.  

And finally, Club Burlesque at the Las Vegas Club.  

The paper branded it as the perfect end to the night - a spectacular show filled with burlesque and flirty cabaret. 

Co-founded and produced by Verity Johnson, the show kicked off in 2020 and has been a K Road staple ever since.  

 Held on Friday night, Club Burlesque is yet to release its latest season.