Melbourne Skyline from South Melbourne. Photo \/ VisitVictoria<\/p>\n
What\u2019s something about Melbourne that\u2019s cool right now but hasn\u2019t been raved about yet? <\/p>\n
There are some great local spots that miss the \u201cthings to do in Melbourne\u201d list, some of which include the Old Plates Record Bar for Wednesday night jazz or Miranda Bar for underground stand-up comedy every Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Which neighbourhoods or streets feel the most exciting to you, and why? <\/p>\n
At the moment, Smith St in Collingwood feels the most exciting. I spend a lot of time there and the street has a personality of its own \u2013 alive with people in bars, cafes and stores. Amidst the wider Collingwood buzz, there are spaces that are familial and homely, which also make the street special.<\/p>\n
Smith Street, Collingwood, Melbourne. Photo \/ VisitVictoria<\/p>\n
Are there any places, shops or hangouts you always find yourself returning to?<\/p>\n
A local designer called Deliboy is my favourite. A Kiwi designer in Melbourne who makes thoughtful garments, each with a story to tell. As an actor, and story being my medium, I am super drawn to this brand and its ethos.<\/p>\n
Melbourne has a reputation as an arts city \u2013 what does that actually look like on an ordinary Tuesday?<\/p>\n
On a low-key day, the \u201cartsy\u201d vibe is still very palpable. The city emulates intention, history and great design everywhere. So even when I get my morning coffee, the cafe interiors will be state-of-the-art with some beautiful curations. It\u2019ll feel like an art exhibit, but it\u2019s just a cafe. Some of my favourites include Palace Coffee, Standing Room and Bakemono. <\/p>\n
Cafes with artwork. Photo \/ VisitVictoria<\/p>\n
Where do you encounter creativity in unexpected places?<\/p>\n
Funnily enough, when using public transportation. The diversity of people is a joy. It\u2019s interesting to notice the way different people hold themselves, their mannerisms and little quirks. It all adds to my creativity, especially when I\u2019m building a character for a project.<\/p>\n
Is there anything about Melbourne that you can\u2019t quite find in New Zealand?<\/p>\n
There\u2019s a festival here called Moomba which usually runs in March. It is essentially a festival to celebrate the city and its people and I think it is the coolest thing ever. They\u2019re so proud of being Melburnians that there\u2019s a whole five-day festival on the banks of the Yarra River. I feel like this is something we could adopt in New Zealand. <\/p>\n
Yarra river. Photo \/ Visit Melbourne<\/p>\n
Be honest, is the coffee better in Melbourne or Auckland?<\/p>\n
That\u2019s tricky! Okay, I would say Melbourne has more innovative coffee, but my favourite coffee spot would have to be Grey Roasting Co. in Hamilton East, so not Melbourne or Auckland, but the Tron. <\/p>\n
Indian Ink premiere their new show Balloon Dog in Whang\u0101rei, Hamilton, Tauranga and Auckland from May 16 – June 20.<\/p>\n