Local Escapes Near Auckland

The best weekend getaways and short escapes near Auckland — curated road trips, beach breaks & nature stays worth packing for.

Highlights

Local Escapes

Your 2025 Guide To Akaroa

Quaint streets, sparkling harbour views, and a vibe so chill you'll toss up selling everything you own and never returning home: Here's your essential 2025 guide on where to eat, play, and stay in lovely old Akaroa.

Rest Of The Best

Two people sit on a deck and look out over an incredible view of the Karangahake Gorge.
Where To Stay

Ruru PurePod

A sublime getaway just 90 minutes from central Auckland, Ruru PurePod the tonic to a this-close-to-burnout sort of week; it's a jaw-droppingly gorgeous setting for a romantic getaway and a secluded retreat for reflection and self-care. 

Where To Stay

Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel

A brand new, five-star hotel has opened at Auckland Airport and it’s set to turn what you thought you knew about airport hotels on its head. Overlooking the buzzing international terminal with spectacular runway views and out to the Manukau Heads, Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland is a fascinating place to spend a few hours, a day or a night.
Local Escapes

InterContinental Auckland

Clear your calendar, a sleek new hotel is opening atop Commercial Bay and you’re going to want to check in, stat. Quietly brewing behind the scenes for quite some time now, InterContinental Auckland has landed and it’s luxe incarnate. 
Travel

JW Marriott Auckland

Just when I thought the JW Marriott couldn’t get any better, they went and had a $35 million glow up and, boy, does ultra luxe look good on JW. Can confirm, it also looks mighty fine as a calendar reminder which will be exactly what you’ll be receiving after you’ve booked yourself in for a dreamy staycay in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau. 
Local Escapes

LyLo Auckland

Take everything you know about budget accommodation, and throw it out the window. Because there's a new cheap and cheerful way to stay in Auckland City, and it's nothing like you've ever experienced before—think sleeping pods, shared spaces for working and chilling, and a vibrant in-house eatery slinging $10 cocktails and some of the tastiest burgers in the CBD.
Local Escapes

voco Auckland City Centre

As soon as you step through the classy, sliding doors at voco Auckland City Centre hotel you know you’re in for a treat. Found midway up Wyndham Street this towering behemoth in the heart of downtown Auckland sits proudly as an oasis from the bustling streets.
Local Escapes

Hotel Fitzroy

After the year we’ve just had, it would be fair to assume that you may have missed the opening of one of the most charming boujee hotels in Auckland.
Hotel Grand Windsor
Local Escapes

Fable Auckland

For a spot of luxury right in the heart of town and slap bang on Queen Street, Fable Auckland (nee Hotel Grand Windsor) is a hidden gem. With hints of art deco scattered throughout, its elegance and charm is second to none. With some of the best shopping, entertainment and dining in Auckland right on their doorstep, you won’t miss a beat when it comes to local flavour.
Grand Mercure
Local Escapes

Grand Mercure

If you're looking for a staycation or are a visitor to Auckland, book into the Grand Mercure which showcases Auckland's special combination of city lights and scenic views. Overlooking the Viaduct Harbour and bustling city streets, Grand Mercure has the best of it all. Everyone is welcome, with rooms ranging from cosy and comfortable to more spacious King or Queen Superior rooms. Dine at the Vue Restaurant located on the top floor or take a seat at the Attica Bar with its mesmerising views of Queen Street. Top it off by jumping on the ferry right next door for a day trip to Rangitoto or Waiheke.
Heritage Hotel
New Zealand

Heritage Hotel

Located in one of Auckland's historic buildings, the Heritage Hotel is the perfect home away from home, providing the ideal place of relaxation and comfort. The Heritage Hotel brings a beautiful combination of old and new with their timeless lobby but modern rooms. Treat yourself with the rooftop heated swimming pool—with epic views and all the comfort, it's an oasis in the heart of Auckland. If you're looking to unwind, choose your perfect pillow preference from their menu to match your sleepy needs. When your tum begins to rumble, head to Hectors Restaurant. The delicious menu caters to vegetarians and vegans alike! Whether it's a staycation or a trip to Auckland, the Heritage Hotel is one of the best. 
Local Escapes

SKYCITY Grand Hotel

The glitz and glam of The SKYCITY Grand Hotel  is second to none. Found on Federal St, in the heart of the Auckland CBD, you’ll be in and amongst all the action. Often the top pick for celebrity travellers, the five star facility boasts an indoor pool and spa and valet services, not to mention the acclaimed East Day Spa.
Hotel DeBrett
Travel

Hotel DeBrett

For a luxury boutique experience, look no further than Hotel DeBrett. This inner-city gem, on the corner of High St and Shortland St, promises a unique stay. With an intimate 25 rooms, the decor features eclectic furniture,  local art and photography. With two bars and a kitchen you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice. 
Local Escapes

The Hilton Auckland

There’s no missing one of Auckland’s most iconic hotels. With a prime spot on the Princes Wharf, not only does this gem promise some of the best views in town, it boasts sundecks, private balconies and a heated lap pool, too!
Fitness

10 Of The Best Volcanoes In Auckland To Climb

If you’re anything like us, your resolution to get fit may seem like an uphill battle—literally. But here in the City of Sails, we’re lucky enough to be sitting on a whopping 53 volcanoes, and they all offer striking views of our wonderful city. 
Things To Do

The Best Hidden Picnic Spots In Auckland For Discreet Al Fresco Dining

It’s hard to spark romance when you’re picnicing with every other human in Tāmaki Makaurau, especially when your thunder could be stolen at any moment by a cute Frenchie pup in a bandana. So (and we hope you’ll forgive us if we give up your secret spot) we’ve decided to spill the beans and reveal 16 of the best hidden picnic spots in and around Auckland.