Whether you are looking for something in the middle of all the action, or a quirky rooftop cocktail bar, there are so many hotels to enjoy in the Auckland region. There is something to suit the weekend warriors, those looking for a spot of romance or families looking to get away.
Winter in Auckland is boasting some unmissable events. Whether you want to feed your belly at Auckland's Restaurant Month or reignite your senses at Elemental AKL, there is always something happening. There are many other events including Matariki, Girl From The North Country, Auckland Fried Chicken Festival, Ancient Greeks: Athletes, Warriors and Heroes, Billie Eilish and more.
Auckland is a shopping paradise. Home to world-class boutiques, department stores and modern shopping malls, you can find your favourite New Zealand designer items, international fashion brands and local arts and crafts. From Louis Vuitton and Jimmy Choo (Westfield Newmarket) to Kate Sylvester and Elle + Riley Cashmere (Commercial Bay) there is a boutique to suit, whatever your style. If you’re looking for a bargain, or a pre-loved piece, be sure to check out the op-shops along K'Road and on High Street and outlets such as Dress Smart in Onehunga.
Warm your hands and belly this winter with some delicious comfort food. Indulge in a melty cheese fondue at Rosanna’s Garden Bar & Eatery; tuck into a fresh pie from The Pie Piper; and a sip on a glass of mulled wine from Coco’s Cantina. Auckland is home to a melting pot of cultures and great food. Fresh, diverse, and globally inspired describe our dining scene. Explore 100 Iconic Auckland Eats and find out Auckland's top restaurateurs favourite food spots.
From the tallest free-standing building in the Southern Hemisphere to up-close encounters with penguins and sharks, Auckland has a vast range of attractions unique to the region. Adrenaline seekers will love SkySlide, the new virtual reality experience that is swooping Auckland; fans of film and sci-fi should visit Wētā Workshop Unleashed; and if you want to learn more about the All-Blacks story head to the All-Black Experience.
Auckland's Hauraki Gulf is home to a multitude of islands that make you feel a world away from the buzzing city centre. Make your escape to one of these must-visit islands, relax on a secluded beach, hike trails in native bush or sip your way around Waiheke Island.
The best things in life are free! And a break in Auckland is no different. From walking and tramping to beach-going and gallery-hopping, there are so many things to see and do for free around Auckland. We have rounded up some of the best free or cheap things to do in the region.
Usually held on the weekend, markets are the best places to find fresh local produce, crafts, handmade jewellery, delicious food and more. Make sure you bring your appetite and visit Matakana Village Farmers’ Market and combine your visit with a must stop at Sculptureum. If you’re looking for a local market, Avondale Sunday Market is your go to for food from all over the pacific and Asian continents, along with great deals on vegetables and fruit and car boot items.
Immerse yourself in the local art and experience Māori culture in Auckland. Discover Auckland’s rich culture and history at the Auckland Museum, see modern and traditional works from around the world at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, and learn more about the stories and taonga of the New Zealand Maritime. These places will leave you impressed and inspired.
Beach lovers are in for a treat as the Auckland region boasts an impressive 1613km of coastline, with everything from rugged rocks to black sand beauties. With many of these beaches being less than an hour’s drive from the city centre, surfing, paddling or just simply having a walk on the beach will become one of your favourite activities this winter.