Auckland – an exhilarating mix of sights and sounds – is home to some of the best experiences in the country.

That’s why we’ve put together this insider’s guide to the activities and experiences that Aucklanders love, so you can do Auckland like a local.

Brunch with the best.

For the locals, nothing beats a good weekend brunch. Wherever you go in Auckland, you’re sure to stumble across a handful of popular cafes ready to serve up a strong coffee and creamy eggs bene. Check out Major Sprout in the CBD or pop over to Winona Forever in Parnell.

A little further out, there’s Porch in St Heliers and Olaf’s in Mt Eden. Over the bridge, dine al fresco at Takapuna Beach Café. Or leave the city limits for Black Cottage Café in Coatesville.

The beauty of Auckland’s geographic location means there’s always a sight to sip to, whether it’s beachfront, rolling fields or cityscape.  

 

Walk it off.

After you fill up in the morning, there’s no shortage of public trails and coastal walks to burn off that extra shot of cream. Take up to 10kms out of your day and absorb Auckland’s amazing harbour setting with a walk along Tamaki Drive and it’s sandy beaches.

Or go off-path and discover the shore side on Te Araroa Trail. Winding along the coast from Devonport to Long Bay, you’ll get spectacular views over the Hauraki Gulf.

 

Taste the city.

When the lights go down it’s time to eat. One of Auckland’s most popular grazing spots is right in the thick of it – down Dominion Road.
Here you’ll find a delicious range of Asian cuisine, amongst pubs, burger joints and plenty of dessert options.

Ask anyone, Dominion road serves up ‘the best ramen’, ‘unbeatable curries’ and ‘the only dumplings you’ll ever need’.

 

In for a laugh.

From belly-filling to belly-laughing, you can tick dinner and a show off your list thanks to the range of Auckland theatres in the central city.

See local and international comedians, musical acts and dance performances at the Q Theatre, The Civic or the newly opened ASB Waterfront Theatre – all have great eateries nearby.

And if you want to venture out beyond the city, you can always have a quick search for local events happening across the Auckland region, such as cultural festivals, concerts and sports events.

 

Choose your poison.

The night’s not over yet. Add the finishing touches to your evening in the glitz and glam of Ponsonby Road. The bars, restaurants and clubs shift into overdrive as local night owls pop bottles of fine champagne and groove to the resident DJ.

Make a sharp turn left and you’ll find yourself amongst the eccentric and colourful nightlife of Karangahape Road. This is the place for quirky live performances, underground bars and an alternative scene that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

 

Morning markets.

If you find yourself adventurous enough for an early morning start after a night out, be sure to experience Auckland’s markets. La Cigale offers a slice of France in the heart of the city – serving up authentic warm goods, pastries, cheeses and much more.

If you’re up for the trip north, the sunny Matakana Village Farmers’ Market is in full swing on Saturdays until 1pm and afterwards there are many charming beaches and wineries nearby.

And in the rural south, The Clevedon Village Farmer’s market is a must-do on a Sunday morning.

 

Garments & galleries.

There’s no better way to finish your trip to Auckland than by picking up a little treat for yourself on the Parnell strip.
There’s something for everyone – with countless fashion boutiques, a boutique just for babies, and even a boutique dedicated to chocolate.

And if you need a break from all the shopping, take in a bit of culture at one of the many galleries displaying some of New Zealand’s finest art.

 

If that’s not enough to keep you busy, don’t worry, we’ve only just scraped the surface of what Auckland can put on. Scroll through our Visit Auckland Facebook page to discover more places to go, events to attend and delicious things to eat!

Ka kite.