Auckland, Meet Cartier
It feels like a watershed moment for Auckland’s CBD as high fashion boutiques continue to sprout out of lower Queen Street rejuvenating it as the nexus of luxury. The latest belongs to Cartier, which has opened its first boutique in Auckland.
The new boutique is Cartier’s eighth boutique in the Oceania region. Designed as an immersive Maison experience, the new boutique invites clients to discover Cartier’s complete universe across jewellery, fine watchmaking, bridal creations, leather goods, accessories and fragrances. Whether you’re treating your partner or treating yourself, this is the place to go.
At 66 Queen Street, it occupies the corner of the former Imperial Hotel, which dates back to 1883. It’s 376 square metres of absolute class that seamlessly blends in with Cartier’s Parisian elegance. Although it doesn’t try and pretend to be French, all throughout are subtle cues that we are indeed an island nation with dramatic coastlines and beautiful native forests alike. Artwork from local masters set the mood, starting with a hand-carved tōtara portal by Māori wood carver Steve Solomon. This is followed by hand-blown glass installations by Auckland artist Isaac Katzoff evoking the movement of the surrounding ocean. The Maison also invited its long-time collaborator François Mascarello to integrate New Zealand’s unique native life with a bespoke painting weaving in Cartier’s iconic panther.
“We are proud to establish a permanent Maison presence in Auckland, creating a destination where our clients can discover the entire Cartier universe, inspired by the extraordinary creativity, craftsmanship and beauty of New Zealand,” said Thomas Crye, Managing Director, Cartier Oceania. “This boutique celebrates our enduring commitment to exceptional savoir-faire while celebrating the richness of New Zealand’s artistic heritage, and we look forward to welcoming our clients into this remarkable new home for Cartier in Auckland.”
The boutique is completed with elegant private salons, offering intimate spaces for you to discuss your needs with the staff. The store is open seven days, 10am to 6pm.