LOCATION is critical to the success of your holiday. Check out itineraries, touring routes for tips on deciding where to stay. Transport is a key factor as precious holiday time can easily be wasted trying to get to a bucket list attraction.
Auckland is spread out over a series of dormant volcanoes with two harbours, the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours. It is a city of interconnecting suburbs, the gateway city to the world with New Zealand’s major international airport and air connections to the rest of the country.
Auckland is not a city of skyscrapers or high rises, except in the CBD. The sprawling suburbs largely use a motorway system for connections which at times is very congested. The urban railway system is limited with public buses often the only viable public transport system, especially in the northern districts. Auckland is a huge city.
Check Auckland travel guide for holiday ideas and consider how you are going to get around before booking your accommodation.
Places to stay in Auckland
Auckland Central Business District & Viaduct Harbour
- First time visitors sampling key attractions and sights
- Visitors interested in heritage and culture
- Visitors wishing to explore shops, galleries and markets
- Visitors who do NOT have a rental vehicle
Advantages
Convenient access to public transport from ferries to the Hauraki Gulf, Britomart Central Train Station and public bus networks terminating in the city centre. There is easy access to key attractions from the Auckland Art Gallery, Ferry terminal and Auckland’s nightlife with the skytower a beacon lighting the horizon. A great option for first time visitors to Auckland who will not be using a rental vehicle.
Drawbacks
It is not the most attractive city centre with a distinct feeling rejuvenation is in order. On the edges of the CBD is The Viaduct. It is a popular place with its repurposed sailing hub and thread of cafes lining the wharf. There are several major hotel chains available in this area. Hotels in Viaduct Harbour are in the mid-range to luxury market with the occasional boutique-style options. There are several apartment blocks with enterprising locals engaged in holiday rentals.
Hand-picked accommodation in this area
Budget
Backpacking in Auckland is more ‘flashpacking’ at The City Lodge. In the heart of Auckland close to Queen Street and Sky City, this 5-star Enviro Gold-rated premium backpacker made the Lonely Planet’s ‘Best of Auckland’ list
Mid-range
Ibis Auckland Central District has a kitchenette and free Wifi.
Luxury
Grand Mercure Auckland overlooking the viaduct harbour with great views of Waitmata marine activity.
Hotel Windsor charming historic restored hotel located on the main shopping street in the CBD.
Auckland inner suburbs – Ponsonby, Parnell and Newmarket
- A number of award winning restaurants, boutique shopping, excellent transport links to the city centre (both train and public bus). There are a number of wellness / fitness locations catering for locals in these three locations
- Views of the harbour and city without the bustle of a city centre
- Three locations are within easy commute to key attractions and city transport networks
- Ponsonby – shopping, art galleries and upmarket cafes. This area is famous for its sophisticated shops and restaurants and for having the best nightlife in the Ponsonby.
- Parnell – shopping, art galleries and upmarket cafes with charming Victorian timber framed houses
- Newmarket – largest shopping mall in Auckland city district, side streets with quirky boutique shops, nearby Auckland Domain and Museum. A mini CBD vibe, Newmarket is a favourite place for frequent visitors to Auckland to stay due to its proximity to transport (train and bus) and vibrant shopping centre.
Hand picked accommodation in this area
Auckland – Ponsonby
The trendy suburb packed with clubs, nightlife and well known restaurants along Ponsonby’s golden mile.
Budget: Uneku Lodge
Functional and reasonably priced stay in an upmarket Auckland suburb.
Luxury: Ponsonby Manor
A touch of pampering while you explore Ponsonby shopping mile.
Auckland – Parnell
Parnell is within walking distance to the CBD as well has a number of restaurants, cafes, galleries and a sophisticated urban vibe.
Auckland Newmarket
Side streets with boutique stores, a massive shopping mall and is anchored at one end with the Auckland Domain Gardens. Newmarket is serviced by an excellent public bus and train network
Mid Range
Both choices are well maintained motel style accommodation with facilities suitable for families:
Key Auckland districts functioning as accommodation hubs include
- Auckland Hospital District
- Auckland Race Course & Cornwall Park
- Mission bay (luxury B&B) – Beach Vibe and proximity to Auckland CBD
Kohi Beach B&B is the perfect choice. It’s easily one of the best B&B’s in Auckland – the property is gorgeous. Self contained units are available, as well as studios, a beautiful garden, open living area, and perfectly located. It’s about a five minutes walk to Kohi Beach, and a ten minute walk to Mission Bay.
Auckland West Coast Piha Beach
A great place to stay for its B&B options and is a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts. There is easy access to the regional parks and the west coast beaches. It is recommended you have a vehicle if you choose to stay in this area.
Hand picked accommodation
Budget
Piha Beachstay is the perfect place for both backpackers and budget minded travellers. It has both dorms and private rooms, and the property is nestled in a bush setting and a short walk from the beach.
Romantic Piha is a private homestay with a stunning view, overlooking Piha and its surroundings. The property itself is gorgeous, beautifully furnished and themed for the west coast.
Interested in exploring Auckland Regional Parks, beaches and outdoors
The North Shore of Auckland is connected via the Auckland Harbour Bridge and State Highway 20 which wends its congested self through the western heart of Auckland skirting the waterfront. You will need a rental vehicle to get about. Definitely worth investigating for visitors interested in
- Visitors wanting to explore day trips from Auckland
- Auckland Regional Parks
- Enjoy views of beaches and open spaces
Takapuna, North Shore Auckland
- Upmarket beach location centred around a stunning beach
- Want to avoid backpacker and / or CBD
- Have your own rental vehicle
Hand picked accommodation
Budget
Takapuna Beach Accommodation. Situated in a prime waterfront location and the centre of Takapuna facilities are a short walk away.
Luxury
Tropical grounds, within walking distance to the beach, cafes and shops. Beautifully maintained property
Auckland airport
Ibis Budget. It’s literally right next to the airport – you could walk there from arrivals in about 15 – 20 minutes. It’s also perfectly located by a bunch of fast food places and a full sized supermarket.
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