Auckland Guide
New Zealand does natural beauty much better than cities, but if there were one city to spend some time in, it would be Auckland. You can explore most of the city’s main attractions in a day, but can easily stay longer and use Auckland as a base for day trips to neighbouring islands and the coastline. It also happens to be a mecca for foodies with heaps of trendy cafes and restaurants serving up superior fare.
To do: Mount Eden
This volcanic crater is the highest point in Auckland and offers panoramic views over the peninsula and the islands in the distance. You can walk around the crater and take in the city from every angle.
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To do: Auckland Domain
To see a leafier side to the city, head to this large, green expanse which is home to parks, pagodas and the Auckland Museum. This is the perfect place for a stroll, no matter the season.
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To do: Wintergardens
Located within the aforementioned Domain, the beautiful Wintergardens consist of two large greenhouses overflowing with tropical plants.
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To do: Waitemata Harbour
This is the prettier side of the city, where you’ll find a host of harbour-side restaurants and sailing boats. Take a stroll along the waterfront with an ice cream in hand and enjoy the views towards the bridge and the islands.
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To do: Waiheke Island
If you’re partial to a glass of wine, then head to beautiful Waiheke Island for a day of cellar-door hopping. Explore the island’s pebbled beaches and rugged coves in the morning and then start your wine tour in the afternoon. Make sure to save Cable Bay or Mudbrick for the evening when you can watch the sunset.
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To do: Explore Ponsonby
Hands down my favourite area in central Auckland, this neighbourhood is overflowing with speciality coffee shops, unique fashion boutiques and leafy terraces. Spend a day exploring this little slice of the city and weaving in and out of any store which takes your fancy.
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Brunch: Bestie
For brunch with a middle-eastern twist, head to Bestie. Have your eggs rolled in dukkah or fried in chilli butter with a side of beetroot hummus and labneh. The open-plan cafe is located within a plant-strewn historic arcade and overlooks Myers park. Other stand-out cafes that I didn’t have time to try include Pollen and Chuffed.
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Coffee: Daily Daily
For a little slice of Japan in bustling Auckland, head to this zen speciality coffee shop. Minimalist in design, the interior is decorated with handmade ceramics and travel magazines to read whilst you sip on your expertly brewed coffee. Other speciality coffee shops to try include Allpress Coffee and Millers Coffee.
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Something sweet: Giapo
The king of gelato in Auckland, Monsieur Giapo creates innovative flavours that are made daily. Getting an ice cream from here is an experience to remember: you’ll get talked through the menu and try all the flavours before making your selection. Each cone comes with pre-designed toppings to complement the ice cream.
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