Eat, drink, shop, repeat.
If you haven’t had the chance to explore our boutique shops, eateries and bars yet, you're in for a treat.
Cambridge offers an array of unique and delightful experiences and a convenient and welcoming atmosphere that enhances your journey of discovery.
Picture this: free parking throughout the town, allowing you to explore leisurely without the worry of searching for a spot in a parking building. Everything is within walking distance, from the charming shops to the cafés and bustling markets. As you stroll along the streets, you'll feel the sense of community that sets Cambridge apart.
Cambridge is where everyone knows your name, and you're bound to bump into familiar faces while walking down the street. This familiarity and connection make the boutique shopping experience in our stunning community even more satisfying. Engage in conversations with friendly shop owners who are passionate about their products, and let their personalised recommendations guide you towards hidden gems.
Cambridge invites you to immerse yourself in a world where convenience, warmth, and familiarity intertwine seamlessly, ensuring that your journey of eating, drinking, shopping, and relaxing is nothing short of exceptional.
Foodies are spoilt for choice in our beautiful town with award-winning restaurants, quirky cafés, beer experiences, healthy fixes and much more.
Cambridge offers a variety of eateries, including casual cafés that serve top-notch coffee and locally-sourced dishes, as well as upscale restaurants that have received recognition for their fine dining menus. Additionally, many cafés and bakeries in the area make delicious cakes, biscuits, and slices from scratch.
Amongst the town's eateries that have claimed national attention is the Italian-themed Alpino Cambridge, named in the Cuisine Good Food Awards as a restaurant to watch. Another is Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar, which is housed in the landmark National Hotel built in 1912.
Local delis and speciality food stores
For a world of flavours, visit Over the Moon Dairy, The Store, and Dantes Fine Foods. These local artisan delis offer an array of specialty handcrafted cheeses, Belgian chocolates, Italian pasta, artisan bread, and much more. They cater to various dietary needs and also stock frozen goods like Duck Island ice cream, par-baked bread, specialty pies, and salmon.
Volare on Empire Street is your go-to for New Zealand's best sausage rolls, croissants, hot cross buns, custard squares and sourdough bread.
Looking for healthy options? Head to Fillgood. This organic grocery store offers bulk bin wholefood and eco-friendly refill cleaning products, ensuring you can nourish your body inside and out.
Shop till you drop
If it’s shopping you are after, Cambridge has it all. There’s something for every budget, with luxury boutiques blending seamlessly alongside more affordable fare.
If you're into fashion, you'll absolutely love shopping in Cambridge! Not only does the main street offer a variety of unique clothing options for men, women, and children, but the side streets do too. You can find everything from cocktail dresses and race day outfits to lingerie, luxurious linens, leisure clothing, baby knits, and even that perfect pair of jeans you've been searching for. Plus, teenagers will find plenty of surf, street, and skate clothing options. And don't forget the accessories and jewellery – you can find it all within walking distance.
If you're in search of homewares, be sure to check out Hus, Olio Design, Green with Envy, Simply Divine Kitchen, Wallace and Cotton, Leven, and Odell Home for stunning collections including furniture, homewares, lighting, nursery décor, world-class quality kitchenware, bed linen and nursery furniture. You will find sheepskins, specially chosen antiques and homewares, outdoor furniture collections, ceramics, mirrors, rugs, lamps, and architectural pieces. Interior styling services, to provide you with some visual inspiration and practical ideas are also offered.
At Ivy Florist, Expressions Floral, and Inspired by 2, you can find a selection of fresh and modern bouquets, indoor plants, and a variety of gift options for men, women, and children. They also offer homewares and souvenirs.
Art and antiques
The town is a favoured haunt for antique collectors – or anyone keen to pick up a previously owned treasure. One example is Alys Antiques and Fine Art, which sells genuine antiques mainly of English origin. The shop was established in 1964 and is one of the oldest Antique Shops in New Zealand.
For those interested in fine art, the Cambridge Art Gallery offers a wide range of paintings, glass, sculptures, rugs and ceramics, while Heritage Gallery stocks premium New Zealand made products, from merino clothing, studio glass and jewellery to unique art pieces and more.
Online options too
If you’re more inclined to shop online, you can still support local. One example for knitting enthusiasts is Edie & Co, which offers sustainably sourced yarns from around the world, inspiring you to create like your Nana did. Whether you're into knitting, crocheting, or weaving, the meditative nature of these crafts can work wonders on the mind and soul.
Another local success story is Squoodles providing educational toys and resources for schools, educators and Kiwi families.
Op shops with hidden treasures
For bargain hunters and vintage enthusiasts, on Duke and Anzac Streets, you'll discover great op shops like Salvation Army, Hospice, and Animal Rescue, offering clothing, footwear, homewares, sports gear, children's items, and even retro furniture. Across the bridge in Leamington, Jumble Around is a popular general op-shop that’s supported Cambridge community groups for over 50 years.
And there’s the Lions Trash n Treasure Market (see page 44), featuring over 200 stalls offering a variety of products at great prices. The town also boasts a cluster of second-hand shops, Mint, promoting recycling and sustainability in the fashion industry, and the Lions Shed on Vogel Street, where you can find larger household items.
