She’s spent two decades on the Shore, Tamsin Morgan knows exactly how to live well.
Tamsin Morgan has been a North Shore local for two decades. From Eskdale Reserve (her “healing bush”) to the best pies in Devonport, she knows this corner of Auckland with the quiet confidence of someone who has genuinely put down roots here. We asked Tamsin where she eats, walks, switches off, and why the North Shore keeps winning her over.
Tell us a little about you and how you spend your days.
I’ve lived on the Shore for 20 years, which still feels wild to say! I’ve called Glenfield, Birkenhead and Hillcrest home over the years. Two years ago I made a big career pivot and became a full-time Pilates instructor. I’m a qualified Polestar Comprehensive Practitioner (a two-year process involving hundreds of hours of mentoring, observation and self-mastery before sitting my final exam, which I passed with flying colours). I teach across all equipment and work with complex conditions and injuries alongside health professionals. My favourite part? Watching people achieve their movement goals. It genuinely lights me up.
What do you love most about living on the North Shore?
The east coast beaches, the great schools, and how easily you can get north, south or west. It’s such a well-connected pocket of Auckland.
Your go-to coffee spot,and what’s your order?
We have a Rancilio machine at home that I bought from Altura in Albany, so I usually make my own soy latte with beans from Toasted, which has two great cafés in Wairau Valley and Rosedale. Highly recommend. But when I’m meeting friends, Duo on Hinemoa Street is a favourite.
Your idea of a perfect day on the Shore?
It depends on the wind! If it’s calm, we’re launching the boat from Takapuna and heading out into the Gulf for a fish and a swim. That’s the dream day.
If we can’t get out on the water, a sunrise walk along Takapuna Beach, a yoga class at Roam or a Pilates class with me at Pilates By Tamsin, then a wander around the markets to pick up ingredients for a long lazy lunch with friends. We love a swim at Narrow Neck or Cheltenham, and if we haven’t pre-planned a picnic, we’ll finish the day there with fish and chips and a drink.
Best hidden gem people might not know about?
A bakery in Devonport called Baked. It’s got incredible pies and it’s so worth the walk to get there. Also, there’s an epic café called Moreno in Woodside, Northcote with great food, excellent coffee and sourdough loaves for just $10. Genuinely to die for.
Favourite spot to eat or drink right now?
So many good ones! We love walking our dog Suki down to The Beer Spot in Northcote. It’s really relaxed, activewear-friendly and completely dog friendly. We’ve even taken the teenagers and played cards there. For something a little quieter, Bon Pinard on Hinemoa Street has a great wine list and lovely tapas. Cave a Vin and The Don (both in Milford) are worth a visit too. A slightly under-the-radar gem: Paasha in Glenfield — delicious food, generous portions, BYO, and no booking required.
A great day trip from the Shore?
Matakana for the markets or a browse around the shops. Stop into Salt River Gallery in Warkworth for beautiful prints and art. If you keep going, Omaha is a great spot, and we often launch the boat from there to reach the best fishing grounds.
What are you currently loving?
Ride Cycle House on Woodside Ave. They make spin classes genuinely fun — the music, the lights, the energy. I barely notice the cardio workout, which is saying something.
Favourite local walk?
Eskdale Reserve, without question! We enter from Glenfield Road opposite the Z Service Station and do the full loop – which is about 5km. Suki loves it as much as we do. We call it the healing bush, because no matter how stressed you arrive, you always leave feeling calmer. It’s cooler in summer and stays drier on rainy days too.
Where do you go to switch off?
Eskdale Reserve and the Shepherds Park coastal walkway in Beach Haven. I put on a podcast or playlist and walk or run depending on how I’m feeling. Both places have never once failed to make me feel better.
Best place to take visitors?
North Head and Mt Victoria, in Devonport. You forget how much history and how many stunning views are right on our doorstep. And Sugar Café at Chelsea Bay is always a hit, especially once you explain it’s actually the old sugar factory.
Your Sunday ritual?
Slow. Tea in bed, book in hand, Suki beside me. My week runs on 4:30am alarms and a fast pace, so lying in bed and reading feels like a genuine luxury. I’m so conditioned to early mornings that “sleeping in” still means I’m up before 8am. But those quiet hours are everything.
Visit pilatesbytamsin.co.nz to learn more about Tamsin’s Pilates session options.
