The flight across the ditch takes just over three hours, making Auckland an ideal destination for your next long weekend away. You can understand the street signs, and banter with locals, all while trying local cuisine and breathing new, fresh air.
To help plan your ultimate vacay, we’ve teamed up with Visit Auckland to create a go-to guide on where to stay, what to do, and, of course, where to eat in Auckland.
Stay
Pullman Auckland Hotel
If you're looking for a swanky and stylish stay, look no further than the Pullman Auckland Hotel. From the moment you step into the lobby, you're surrounded by chic, contemporary decor that sets the tone for a luxurious stay. Sweeping views of Waitematā Harbour and the historic Albert Park will help you unwind and ease into your escape. On-site restaurant Tapestry Grill & Bar will keep your belly full all day, slinging classics with a worldly spin washed down with a local vino or two.
M Social Auckland
Say "so long" to the drab hotels of decades past and "hello" to M Social Auckland. Located in downtown Auckland, M Social Auckland is designed for the curious traveller who also enjoys the comforts of luxury with some of the best views of Auckland’s Princes Wharf. Head left of M Social Auckland to explore Viaduct Harbour for top-rated bars and restaurants, head right to Commercial Bay for new season shopping and out front you can jump on a ferry straight to idyllic Waiheke Island—we guarantee you won't regret it.
The Grand By SkyCity
When it comes to an iconic Auckland stay, look no further than The Grand by SkyCity—save your transport dosh for experiences and eats. Right at your doorstep, indulge in 15 restaurants and bars, check out the latest show at SkyCity Theatre or view it all from unparalleled heights 186m up in the Sky Tower. Explore the vibrant sights and sounds of Auckland’s city centre before escaping to your lavish hotel hideaway to recharge. Expect a world-class hotel with warm Kiwi hospitality.
Eat
Sunset Bar At Sudima Auckland City
Travel back in time with 70s-inspired pastels and textured interiors at Sunset Bar at Sudima Auckland City. You won’t forget the name as the Waitākere Ranges and Waitematā Harbour views turn from sparkling water to a twinkling skyline. Order every dish on the Mumbai street food-inspired menu and flood your tastebuds with flavour. Our recommendation? The masala waffles are essential. Pair them with a wine from their eclectic list or a showstopper from their ever-changing cocktail menu—bliss.
Kingi At The Hotel Britomart
A celebration of New Zealand ingredients, kingi at The Hotel Britomart brings the ocean to your plate. Independent producers use sustainable fishing methods to fill this sleek restaurant with local and organic produce. Housed in the heritage Masonic House Building, the restaurant is as beautiful as the food is delicious. Catering to all diets, anyone can treat themselves. Our pick is the four-course Taste of kingi menu—you’re on holiday after all, right?!
Eight At Cordis Auckland
Eat like a king at Eight where all-you-can-eat is paired with next-level decadence. One restaurant houses eight kitchens, each helmed by an expert chef of their unique cuisine. Feast on everything from an American-style grill, authentic Indian curries, fresh Japanese sashimi, Chinese dim sum and—our favourite—a dessert bar complete with a chocolate fountain. Gift your taste buds a culinary adventure through breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert or all of the above.
Do
Terra & Tide
Time to wind down with regenerative tours on Waiheke Island. Terra & Tide offer experiences to get outside and connect with nature. Enhance your mind, body and soul with a well-being workshop, guided walks through forests and coastlines or voyage the Hauraki Gulf on a catamaran. If you’re a beginner or an incurable adventurer customise your trip to get your boots as dirty as you like.
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s
Opening in the mid-80s, this aquarium was four times larger than any other and still houses the world’s first curved underwater tunnel. SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's now features 12 different themed zones with over 30 exhibits. You can get up close to the Southern Hemisphere's largest colony of Sub-Antarctic penguins, see the world's only public display of spiny sea dragons and learn how rescued sea turtles are cared for. For marine lovers wanting a reason to flex, you can even take a dip with sharks.
SkyCity
A mecca of adrenaline, SkyCity is home to three of the most blood-pumping, sweat-inducing experiences in Auckland and all with a view perched 200m above the city. The SkyWalk lets you walk around the outer ring of the Sky Tower—we guarantee you haven’t done 360-degree views like this before. Then, for the adrenaline junkies among us, SkyJump lets you step off the edge, reaching speeds of up to 85kph. If Beyonce can do it, you can too. Combine both with SkySlide and soar over Auckland, weaving around the Sky Tower without even leaving your seat. It’s VR, we’re not living in the year 3000 just yet.
Getting Around
Choose your own adventure and get a GO Rentals. If you have a champagne taste, your next trip is a prime time to taste with a fleet of new luxe cars. Tesla Model Y anyone? From surf beaches to regional parks, this is affordable and the easiest way to see all of Auckland and the best part, you can do it green. GO Rentals have partnered with CarbonClick to offset your carbon emission. Aussies can be tidy Kiwis too.
Auckland is calling and it's about time we answer. Find all there is to experience and make planning your next visit to Auckland easy at Visit Auckland.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image: Supplied, Sunset Bar and Terra & Tide