Where is the best place to stay in Auckland?
By Jennifer Maude. January 24, 2023
Otherwise known as The City of Sails, Auckland is a friendly, approachable travel destination with a thriving dining and nightlife scene. Surrounded by the Hauraki Gulf and the Manukau Harbour, the city has easy access to many idyllic small island destinations such as Waiheke Island, Great Barrier Island, and Tiritiri Matangi, which are easily accessible by ferry for day trips or longer. Auckland’s idyllic waterfront location adds to its tropical feel, with city beaches within walking distance from the central business district. Soak in the relaxed Kiwi lifestyle and enjoy the unique bustling city atmosphere and rich culture.
The Central Business District is the perfect spot to base yourself in Auckland, as it puts you right in the heart of the action. You will be within walking distance of many waterfront bars and restaurants. Being located in the CBD, you have access to various activities, from sandy beaches to sunny city brunches; culture vultures can explore museums and art galleries, and outdoor lovers can enjoy parks and dormant volcanoes. The Karangahape road area near the top of the CBD is known for its bustling bars, lively music, and alternative shops.
If you are interested in where to stay in Auckland, you may also be interested in where to stay in Christchurch, where to stay in Sydney or where to stay in Melbourne.
Central Business District, the best area to stay in Auckland
First Time / Tourists / Walking Around
The dining scene in the CBD will delight food lovers. Fresh New Zealand produce takes center stage on many restaurant menus. You will have plenty of opportunities to sample unique New Zealand artisan products, locally brewed beers and wines, and freshly caught seafood. Head to the waterfront and enjoy fresh New Zealand oysters and a cold glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
Get to know Auckland’s Polynesian heritage and indigenous Maori culture with a trip to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which houses a large display of Maori and Pacific island artefacts. For art fans, try the Auckland Art Gallery, Masterwork’s gallery at the top of Queens street, or head up to Karangahape road to visit Artspace, Tautai, home of the Pacific Arts Trust, and the RM gallery.
Thrill seekers can head out on the water to indulge in watersports, from kite surfing, paddleboarding, sailing, or fishing. Or if you are feeling brave, bungee jump from the Sky Tower.
Other areas to stay in Auckland
The Viaduct Harbour
Couples / Waterfront Views / Boat Owners / Romance
Located a short 5-minute walk from the CBD, the Viaduct Harbour has transformed from a commercial harbor into a bustling area of restaurants and bars overlooking the waterfront with a 150-berth marina.
The area is an upmarket part of the Auckland CBD, with numerous upscale apartment buildings and hotels. Its waterfront views make it a popular spot for a drink on a sunny day, and there are over 30 bars and restaurants to explore.
As a working Marina, the boats add a sea of twinkling lights and sails to the area’s backdrop, with easy access to charter boat cruises, whale and dolphin watching expeditions, or fishing trips. In tribute to its maritime history, the New Zealand Maritime Museum is housed right on the waterfront of the viaduct.
Stroll down to Wynyard Quarter and Silo Park. Silo park has outdoor areas to sit and enjoy and hosts regular events from outdoor cinema screenings, pop-up art events, and live music.
The North Shore
Families / Beach Lovers / Brunch / Lunch
A ten-minute drive across the Auckland Harbour bridge takes you out of the CBD into Auckland’s North Shore. These lively communities make the perfect spot for families to explore, with easy access to the area’s sandy beaches.
The sprawling North Shore contains many unique centers, including Devonport, Takapuna, Milford, Albany, Long Bay, and Birkenhead. Each with its own atmosphere, the North Shore is an area ripe for exploration.
If you want to entertain kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities, including many outdoor parks, such as the Takapuna beach playground, and numerous nature reserves. The area offers good walking opportunities with the chance to get out and explore green spaces despite the proximity to the city.
Funky brunch spots, boutique shops, and lively bars and restaurants are ready for you to discover and enjoy with many outside dining options. Make sure you indulge in a leisurely beachfront brunch while in the area.
Newmarket
Shopping / Business Travellers / Café Culture / Transport Hub
Newmarket is located to the South East of Auckland’s CBD. It has excellent public transport links to the CBD, including train and bus, so that you can move around easily.
With a thriving retail scene, Newmarket is considered one of Auckland’s premier retail centres. On Newmarket main street, you will find many boutique shops selling interesting gifts and artisan products. Westfield Mall is a large retail complex with shops, a boutique cinema complex, and numerous dining options.
Newmarket is perfect if you want to be close to the action but away from the heart of the CBD. There is a vibrant dining scene to satisfy foodies, with several stylish bars and eateries to explore. Cafe culture is strong in Newmarket, so you will find plenty of spots to get your caffeine fix or stop for a lazy lunch in the sun.
Parnell
Couples / Older Travellers / Luxury Stays / Relaxed City Break
Parnell is a relaxed suburb of Auckland located a short ten-minute walk from the Auckland CBD. It is an affluent area reflected in its upmarket restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Expect fine dining, boutique shops, upscale brunch spots, french bakeries, and luxury accommodations. Due to its proximity to the CBD, you can get great views of the Sky Tower, Auckland’s tallest structure, and an iconic feature of the city’s skyline.
Parnell is easy to explore, with several scenic paths that take in the area’s old-school Kiwi charm. Make sure you visit the Dove-Myre Robinson Park, which houses 5000 rose bushes and enjoys views over the harbour and Judges bay.
Auckland Domain is a must-visit. Formed by an ancient volcano, it is Auckland’s oldest park. You can visit Auckland War Memorial Museum at the top of the Domain, make a trip to the Wintergardens or check out the regular events hosted at the domain.
Ponsonby
Younger Travellers / Bars / Dining / Nightlife
Ponsonby is a trendy neighbourhood two kilometres west of the CBD. Full of character, the area has transformed in recent years with a multitude of culinary offerings. If you fancy bar hopping, Ponsonby is an energetic spot with plenty of nightlife. Discover cocktail bars, live music, DJs, and a buzzing inner-city atmosphere.
Ponsonby road is surrounded by leafy suburbs, which make perfect inner city accommodation. The hub of Ponsonby runs directly down Ponsonby road towards the CBD; this is where the main action takes place.
There are several galleries on Ponsonby Road to keep art fans occupied, as well as unique shops and food stores. If you are staying in Ponsonby, you will be within walking distance of the Gray Lynn farmers market, which operates on Sunday mornings and is a great spot to get some fresh produce for your trip.
Our recommended hotels in Auckland
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in AucklandNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
