Our picks of everything you need for a great stay
New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland is known as the City of Sails for the many boats that fill its iconic harbor. But to locals, it’s known as a hive of activity, where residents work hard during the week and on the weekend prize the little pleasures — something delicious to eat and drink, and natural beauty to soak up. There’s plenty on offer in the city, so you won’t be hungry for anything. Nau mai, haere mai — welcome!
SUNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCES
Auckland makes the most of its locale with a hip range of locally and internationally influenced goods. Start with the historic harborside Customhouse, now home DFS Auckland and its selection of international and local luxury from couture to streetwear.
Thoughtfully curated homewares store everyday needs is packed with elegant design objects sourced locally and internationally that will put a smile on your face.
Unity Books is a well-stocked, locally owned bookshop that’s a firm favorite and an essential stop for bookworms.
MUST-SEE SIGHTS
Auckland is not just New Zealand’s largest city — it’s also one of the most visually inspiring, from harbor to hills. An Auckland icon in its own right, Sky Tower’s famous lookout gives you one of the best views of the city.
New Zealand’s largest art institution, the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki plays host to revolving national and international exhibitions, and is the perfect place to get a spark of inspiration.
Ranging from international headliners to up and coming actors, the Basement Theatre is a hive of cultural activity with an ever-changing range of shows.
Wind down your day out with a trip to the family-friendly night market at the Glenfield Sunday Markets. Make sure you arrive hungry — the street food is plentiful and delicious, with everything from dumplings to waffles and churros served hot.
GOURMET DELIGHTS
Auckland is famous for its cuisine, which celebrates its waterside location, indigenous ingredients and a modern approach. And with award-winning chefs and refined interiors, Ahi prides itself on providing an introduction to Aotearoa New Zealand through food, beverage, and — most importantly — hospitality, with scrumptious views of the city and harbor to boot.
Whether you’re looking to grab a quick coffee, pop in for lunch or talk the evening away over cocktails, Hugo’s Bistro is your all-day go-to. With moody, intimate interiors and a stack of awards, this is a thoroughly modern bistro that gets the classics right.
The award-winning Williams Eatery does everything with polish, offering food hand in hand with carefully considered design sensibilities. Attention to detail and top-notch cuisine has turned this into a local favourite.
A newer edition to Auckland’s dining scene, Onslow is helmed by renowned New Zealand chef Josh Emett. Situated in a great location, close to cultural amenities too, the concept is simple — let the very best locally sourced ingredients sing.
Run by creative couple Yasuji and Fumi Hisai, much-loved local coffee spot Coffee Pen is a favored hangout of creative types and coffee fiends. Don’t forget to try one of their many delicious sweet treats.
Ozone Coffee’s fresh, elegant interiors cater to visitors from dawn to dusk for coffee and cocktails. Beans are sourced from around the world to produce their winning blends.
LUXE STAYS
In such a stylish city with great views, there are plenty of excellent accommodation options. Hotel Britomart, New Zealand’s only 5 Green Star hotel, is thoughtfully and consciously designed with earthy but luxurious spaces, city views and (of course) good food on offer.
On the harbor, the Park Hyatt Auckland offers excellent amenities, palatial rooms, and all the trimmings for a perfect retreat after a busy day out.
Boutique gem the Hotel DeBrett is something special, bringing its quirky, colorful interiors and Art Deco detailing to a heritage building in the heart of the harbor district.
We recommend checking websites before visiting, as some venues are currently impacted by the Auckland lockdown; others are offering takeout, virtual experiences, and online shopping services or Click & Collect.
