How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Auckland, New Zealand

There are so many new and exciting things to see in Auckland now that travelers can once again visit New Zealand. Commercial Bay is a relatively new addition to the city, revolutionizing the CBD’s retail and hospitality scene. There’s also the reinvigorated Viaduct Harbor, which features several new luxury hotel offerings, and the Britomart precinct – an exquisite industrial transformation that has been two decades in the making.

Moreover, the natural beauty of Auckland is captivating, from pristine beaches to verdant volcanic peaks and twin harbors facing both the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. International travelers often view Auckland as a stopover on the way to Queenstown or The Bay of Islands; however, there are many reasons to make it a destination on any New Zealand itinerary and spend at least a few days experiencing its magical offerings.

Time Zone

New Zealand Standard Time (NZST).

Best Time to Go

The ideal time to visit is during New Zealand’s summer, particularly between December and early March. This season enhances all outdoor activities, making it easier to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

In addition, summertime brings numerous music and arts festivals. Each January, Auckland hosts the ASB Classic tennis tournament, which is akin to Wimbledon. Nonetheless, be prepared for variable weather conditions throughout the year.

Things to Know

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, where urban life intersects with stunning natural landscapes. While the CBD is walkable, exploring the outskirts is best done by car, as many suburbs are spread out and public transport can be less direct.

Be sure to visit Newmarket, Ponsonby, Parnell, and Takapuna on the North Shore, where beautiful beaches and fantastic cafes await. Consequently, tourists often find locals friendly and helpful.

Additionally, tipping is not customary in New Zealand, although some may choose to add gratuity when dining out.

Currency: NZD (check the current exchange rate).

Language: English

Calling Code: +64

Capital City: Wellington

How to Get Around

Trains

Auckland’s train system, albeit not as extensive as in other large cities, operates four main lines that connect to the Britomart Train Station, renowned for its modern infrastructure.

Ferries

Fullers and Sealink offer ferry services from downtown Auckland, making it easy to visit Devonport, Waiheke Island, Rangitoto, Hobsonville Point, and Half Moon Bay.

Taxis

Main taxi services include Corporate Cabs and Co-op Taxis, both of which are reliable and ensure a comfortable ride into the CBD.

Buses

CityLink buses operate frequently and can take you to various locations; consult this map for routes. Beware of congested traffic during peak hours.

Car Apps

Uber and Ola are widely used in the area, providing convenient transportation options at competitive rates.

Best Hotels

Park Hyatt Auckland

Address: 99 Halsey Street, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 366 1234

Park Hyatt is Auckland’s luxury hotel featuring elegant accommodations and an array of amenities, including multiple dining options and a fitness center.

The Hotel Britomart

Address: 29 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 300 9595

This highly anticipated hotel features stylish suites nestled amongst the best shopping and dining options in the CBD.

QT Auckland

Address: 4 Viaduct Harbor Ave, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand

A trendy and luxurious hotel in Auckland’s Viaduct, QT offers a vibrant bar scene and stylish interiors.

Hotel Fitzroy

Address: 43 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn
Phone: +64 9 558 1955

For a boutique experience, Hotel Fitzroy provides an intimate setting near popular cafes and nightlife.

Sofitel Auckland

Address: 21 Viaduct Harbour, 1010, Auckland, New Zealand

Since its opening in 2012, the Sofitel has been known for its luxury accommodations and exceptional service, making it a favorite amongst celebrities.

Best Restaurants

Milenta

Address: 210-218 Victoria Street, Auckland

This South American bistro in Victoria Park Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with dishes cooked traditionally over a wood coal fire.

Kingi

Address: The Hotel Britomart, 30 Customs Street East, Auckland
Phone: +64 9 300 9596
Website

An elegant seafood restaurant known for its fresh dishes and lively atmosphere, situated in the heart of Britomart.

Daphnes

Address: 71 Ponsonby Road, 1011, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 21 906 815
Website

Bringing a slice of Greece to Auckland, Daphnes features a convivial Mediterranean ambiance and innovative Greek cuisine made for sharing.

Amano

Address: 66-68 Tyler Street, Britomart, 1010, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 394 1416

With an elevated atmosphere rooted in inventive seasonal cuisine, Amano is a must-visit spot among locals and visitors alike.

Ada

Address: The Convent Hotel, 454 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, 1021, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 883 4454

With a rustic yet airy space, Ada serves Italian-inspired fare that’s perfect for both small and large gatherings.

Barulho

Address: 2-16 Watt Street, Parnell, Auckland, 1052, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 309 0277

This lively restaurant serves an array of Spanish tapas and specializes in charcoal oven dishes.

Onslow

Address: 9 Princes Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9-930 9123
Website

Known for its refined atmosphere and innovative dishes, Onslow offers a unique dining experience in Auckland’s business hub.

Lilian

Address: 472 Richmond Road, Auckland, 1021, New Zealand
Phone: N/A
Website

This neighborhood restaurant focuses on delicious and reasonably priced piquant dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

Things to Do

Cooking Class at Homeland

Experience classic New Zealand cuisine with celebrated chef Peter Gordon at Homeland, where local ingredients are showcased through cooking classes.

Matakana

Matakana offers a picturesque setting for a getaway, complete with vineyards and gourmet al fresco dining options. Don’t miss the Farmer’s Market for artisan goods.

Auckland Art Gallery

Auckland Art Gallery is New Zealand’s largest art institution, showcasing an extensive collection of historic and contemporary art.

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a day trip to Waiheke Island for beautiful vineyards and stunning beaches, just a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

Auckland Museum

The Auckland Museum is an architectural gem that provides insight into New Zealand’s history through its diverse collections.

Walk around North Head

Explore North Head Historic Reserve for its military relics and breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland skyline.

Explore the West Coast Beaches

Spend a day discovering Auckland’s captivating black-sand beaches, including Piha and Muriwai, known for their stunning landscapes and great surfing.

Have the Best Gelato Outside of Italy

Head to Giapo on Queen Street for artistic gelato creations that are both delicious and visually appealing.

Best Shopping

Commercial Bay

Address: 7 Queen Street, Auckland, 1010
Phone: +64 27 368 8659
Website

Commercial Bay hosts over 100 fashion and dining locations, featuring international designers and local brands.

Karen Walker

Address: Ground Floor, The Hotel Britomart, 31 Galway Street, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 309 6299

Karen Walker is known for her elegant and timeless designs, featuring luxurious clothing and whimsical accessories.

Smith & Caughey’s

Address: 253-261 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, 1010, New Zealand
Phone: 0508 400 500
Website

This iconic department store offers a broad range of designer brands, beauty products, and exquisite homewares.

Kate Sylvester

Address: 134 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, 1011, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 360 5283
Website

Kate Sylvester’s collections are chic and locally produced, perfect for those who appreciate timeless fashion.

Simon James Store

Address: 230 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 376 6955
Website

Design lovers will appreciate this store’s refined furniture and homewares, alongside beautiful fashion items.

Ruby

Address: 4 High Street, Auckland CBD, 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 303 2128
Website

Ruby is a popular fashion brand offering a chic and playful selection of clothing and accessories for women.

Muse

Address: 11 Teed Street, Newmarket, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 520 2911
Website

Muse provides a curated collection of contemporary fashion from both local and international designers.

Neighborhoods to Know

Ponsonby: A vibrant area with trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques, known for its lively nightlife and social hotspots.

Takapuna: Offering sprawling beaches and great shopping options, Takapuna is perfect for a day out or a beach day.

Newmarket: A major retail hub with a mix of high-end and popular boutiques, cool restaurants, and cafes.

Parnell: Known for its chic cafes, art galleries, and green spaces, Parnell is an upscale area that’s enjoyable to explore.

Weather

The temperatures remain fairly consistent in Auckland, with the range typically varying by about 20°F between seasons:

• January: 61°F – 78°F
• February: 61°F – 80°F
• March: 59°F – 73°F
• April: 55°F – 68°F
• May: 51°F – 64°F
• June: 47°F – 60°F
• July: 45°F – 58°F
• August: 46°F – 59°F
• September: 49°F – 62°F
• October: 52°F – 64°F
• November: 54°F – 67°F
• December: 59°F – 72°F

Apps to Download

Uber: For ridesharing services.

MetService: For weather updates.

Google Maps: For navigation and directions.