In Auckland's vibrant city centre you can shop to your heart's content, enjoy fine dining, explore the local art scene and take in stunning vistas.
Central Auckland is a hub of urban delights set against beautiful coastal scenery. It’s not hard to see why this is regarded as one of the most livable cities in the world.
Shopping
Queen Street is the inner city's main street, with everything from clothing to electronics, books and souvenirs. From there you can walk to High Street and Chancery, home to designer labels and cutting-edge local boutiques. Newmarket, just a few minutes' drive from downtown, is a mecca of popular international labels and more than 40 designer stores. Look out for Kiwi designers Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester and Annah Stretton. And if you’re around on a Saturday, be sure to check out the French Markets in Parnell, or the City Market at Britomart.
Restaurants and Bars
Downtown Auckland has an impressive array of cafes, restaurants and bars. Enjoy fine dining on the waterfront, relaxed eats around Queen Street, celebrity chefs’ creations on Federal Street, and ethnic cuisine on Elliot Street. For nightlife head to the Viaduct Harbour, Britomart or Wynyard Quarter; all are within walking distance of Queen Street. Karangahape Road (‘K Road’ to the locals) is known for its alternative bars, while trendy Ponsonby (about 10 minutes’ drive from downtown) is good for live music.
Arts and Culture
Auckland’s vibrant art scene has a lot to offer visitors. Start with the Auckland Art Gallery, and follow it up with a few of the city's many small galleries. Auckland Museum hosts exquisite displays of Māori and Pacific artefacts, as well as live Māori cultural performances. In the evening, catch a show or concert at the Aotea Centre, Civic Theatre or Town Hall, or head to The Classic Comedy Club for something light-hearted.
Sightseeing
There are a couple of experiences you won’t want to miss in central Auckland. For panoramic views of the city, head to the Sky Tower; or if you've a picnic in mind you can climb Mt Eden, the city's highest volcanic cone. Auckland is known as the City of Sails – so whether you go on a harbour cruise, a dolphin safari or an America’s Cup Yacht, you need to get out on the water. The city is also spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches – so catch a bus to Mission Bay or a ferry to Devonport and you’ll be licking ice-cream by the sea in no time.
Functional facts: Approx. population 1.3 million, international airport, cruise ship port, several i-SITE visitor centres.
Nearby towns: Orewa (20 min) , Hellensville (39 min) , Warkworth (43min)
