Located at 66 Queen Street in Auckland, the elegant new space introduces a wide selection of Cartier’s iconic jewellery and watches to the country for the first time.
First established in Paris in 1847, Cartier has a rich history in jewelry and watchmaking, its designs retaining lasting connections to royalty, Hollywood stars and influential tastemakers.
Locals may arrive seeking elegant Tank watches, romantic Love bracelets and the untamed, big-cat energy of its Panthère pieces, but theboutique reveals a desirable world of further Cartier treasures. Bridal creations such as engagement rings and wedding bands, a growing range of chic leather bags and accessories and a collection of fine fragrances are all part of the Auckland offering.
Set in a prime corner position on Queen Street, it feels fitting that such a storied brand has found a home in an Auckland building with a rich history of its own. Built in 1883 and once home to the Imperial Hotel, the new boutique preserves plenty of the building’s original architectural legacy while also introducing a chic Parisian spin.
Each Cartier boutique around the world thoughtfully acknowledges the environment and culture of its location. In Auckland, this sense of place is represented in design elements that nod to its coastal location, with fluid architectural forms, sculptural curves and layered textures chosen to evoke the movement of wind and water.
Bespoke artistic commissions also celebrate the work of local artisans. Guests arrive through a hand-carved tōtara timber portal created by Māori wood carver Steve Solomon, whose contemporary interpretation of traditional carving reflects movement, guardianship and Auckland’s maritime identity. Hand-blown glass installations by Auckland artist Isaac Katzoff evoke the tranquility and movement of the surrounding ocean.
In a playful marriage of worlds, the house’s emblematic panther looks surprisingly serene placed in a scene with some of New Zealand’s native flora and birdlife in a painting by François Mascarello, a long-time Cartier collaborator.
Varied local landscapes and influences are also subtly woven into the decor of the boutique’s private shopping salons, where you can pore over your choices or learn more about the history behind many legendary designs.
The boutique is open now.
