Johanna Thornton
Johanna Thornton serves as deputy editor of Viva and Lifestyle Premium at the New Zealand Herald, bringing her expertise in food, drink, and lifestyle journalism to the forefront.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Johanna Thornton writes about the stories behind restaurant names in Auckland.
It’s time to retire the restaurant monologue
New Zealand· 2026-02-26
Johanna Thornton writes about the stories behind restaurant names in Auckland.
Book Now: Where To Eat On Valentine’s Day In AucklandNew Zealand· 2026-02-05
Johanna Thornton writes about the best walks in Auckland.
Viva Gift Guide: Beautiful & Practical Presents Under $50New Zealand· 2025-11-26
Johanna Thornton is noted for her unforgettable 10-course dinner at The Chef’s Table in the Ruapehu District.
The Best NZ Restaurants Out Of Auckland, According To The Viva TeamNew Zealand· 2025-11-24
Johanna Thornton is the Deputy Editor who selects the top restaurants for the Viva Top 50.
Viva Top 50 Auckland Restaurants 2025 Is Coming Soon. Here’s How You Can Have Your SayNew Zealand· 2025-11-12
Johanna Thornton writes about the best walks in Auckland.
18 Of The Best Walks In Auckland, From Inner City Paths To Coastal TrailsNew Zealand· 2025-10-27
Johanna Thornton reviews the seasonal Piha restaurant Aryeh, highlighting its outdoor dining options.
Auckland’s Best Outdoor Bars & Restaurants, With Courtyards, Terraces & RooftopsNew Zealand· 2025-10-25
Johanna Thornton writes about Brisbane’s exciting food scene.
Where To Eat & Drink In Brisbane In 2025New Zealand· 2025-10-14
Johanna Thornton highlighted the boutique hotel's unique retreat experience.
19 NZ luxury hotels and lodges awarded Michelin keys – which ones should you visit?New Zealand· 2025-10-12
Johanna Thornton has your go-to guide for where to eat, drink and unwind across the bridge.
The North Shore’s Best Restaurants & Bars: Your 2025 Food & Drink Hit ListNew Zealand· 2025-07-22
Johanna Thornton wrote positively about Candela's party atmosphere and great evening promise.
Candela restaurant on Karangahape Rd to shut doors after unexpected offerNew Zealand· 2025-07-01
Johanna Thornton is an editor in Auckland who suggested new dining options to Jesse Mulligan.
Jesse Mulligan Restaurant Review: Find Woodfired Pizza & A New Wine Bar Next Door At Dunedin’s Seaside EsplanadeNew Zealand· 2025-05-28
Johanna Thornton writes about the stories behind restaurant names in Auckland.
Auckland Restaurant Names: Why Are You Called That? The Stories Behind Your FavouritesNew Zealand· 2025-05-16
Johanna Thornton has the latest in new openings, events to book and exciting collaborations.
The Dish: A New French Bistro, A Secret Blue Bar And More Delicious Food NewsNew Zealand· 2025-04-17
Johanna Thornton has reached a tipping point with the share plate phenomenon – and she wants to know who’s with her.
Opinion: When Share Plates At Restaurants Aren’t Done Well, There’s A Lot To LoatheNew Zealand· 2025-04-10
Johanna Thornton wrote about the new rooftop eatery Takapuna Surf Club and highlighted its Aussie surf club charm with a Kiwi twist.
Where To Eat On Auckland’s Karangahape RdNew Zealand· 2025-03-27
Johanna writes about the new Takapuna Surf Club and its connection to the local dining scene.
Fitzroy Deli Is A Petite New Sandwich Shop In Shortland StNew Zealand· 2025-03-25
Johanna Thornton reports on a luxury cruise experience from Venice to Athens.
Travel Diary: Jackie Ashley’s Architecture-Filled 48 Hours in Palm Springs, CaliforniaNew Zealand· 2025-03-16
Thornton is the deputy editor of the magazine and Lifestyle Premium at the New Zealand Herald and twice a co-judge of Viva’s Top 60 Auckland Restaurants feature.
The Most Influential Women In Food & Drink In New Zealand Named Ahead of International Women’s DayNew Zealand· 2025-03-07
Johanna Thornton reviewed the FlexStyle hair dryer.
The Viva Team Test Drive The Newest Wave Of Hair Tools. Here Are The Ones Worth The MoneyNew Zealand· 2025-03-06
Johanna Thornton writes about the new Takapuna Surf Club and its community-focused approach.
First Look: Takapuna Surf Club Is A New Rooftop Garden Bar The North Shore Can Be Proud OfNew Zealand· 2025-03-04
Johanna Thornton is a big fan of the pleats and sweet tie closures of the Simona Shirt Dress.
The Viva Team’s February Wish List: What We Want To Buy, From Homeware To Hiking EssentialsNew Zealand· 2025-02-23
Johanna Thornton is the deputy editor who provides insights on vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Auckland.
The Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants In Auckland, According To VivaNew Zealand· 2025-02-19
Johanna reports from a 10-day cruise in the Mediterranean.
Travel Diary: Photographer & Zambesi Producer Marissa Findlay’s Love Letter To HawaiiNew Zealand· 2025-02-17
Johanna Thornton is the deputy editor of Viva and Lifestyle Premium at the New Zealand Herald.
Which Auckland Cafes Do The Best Brunch In 2025?New Zealand· 2025-02-14
This is my parents’ song and every time it plays I can picture them dancing.
The Best Love Songs (And Break Up Anthems) According to VivaNew Zealand· 2025-02-14
Johanna Thornton is the deputy editor of Viva and co-judged Viva’s Top 60 Restaurants For 2024.
These Are The Essential Auckland Restaurant Dishes To Order In 2025New Zealand· 2025-02-12
