Despite being New Zealand’s most cosmopolitan city, Auckland doesn’t give up any of the laidback lifestyle that the country is known for. After a few days in the “City of Sails”, we discovered what makes it the perfect starting point for a trip down under.
Where to Sleep:
The Amora Hotel (from $117) is ideally located on tree-lined Greys Avenue, close to downtown. Our stay was as comfortable as it was stylish in a two-level loft overlooking a lush park and with a stunning view of the city. Each room has a kitchenette, washing machine, and a private balcony — not to mention a heated pool and gym facilities.
Since popping up in the heart of the fashion district three years ago, Hotel DeBrett (from $235) has cemented its status as the spot for the see-and-be-seen set. Foodies won’t want to miss dining at DeBrett’s Kitchen restaurant, where chef Mark Sycamore has perfected gourmet-casual cuisine. We loved lunching on pan-seared squid with pumpkin hummus, rocket, grilled chorizo and bell pepper ($20).
Where to Eat:
There is no shortage of Asian restaurants in Auckland, and we found Café Hanoi and Tanuki to be delicious destinations for Vietnamese and Japanese respectively. For a break from the usual, it was over to Britomart — a new complex with over 30 eateries, bars and shops. On one afternoon, we found a lush outdoor setting and indulged in high tea ($24 for two) at the Britomart Country Club.
Over at the SkyCity entertainment district, celebrated chef Peter Gordon heads up dineandBellota. Both are award-winning restaurants. The former serves a blend of Asian, Pacific and traditional European cuisine, while the latter is well known for authentic Spanish tapas.
What to Do:
After a latte ($3.50) at Shaky Isles, it was time to start shopping! First, we popped into Laundromat Boutique to peruse its full selection of local label Federation. Then we hit up High Street for more fashion-forward finds from World Deluxe & World Man and sweet dresses at Ruby.
Britomart is also the place to start an evening out. Try the signature cocktail — with lime, coriander, passion fruit vodka and ginger beer — at Smith Bar and head off to 1885 for live music and DJs that are guaranteed to get your party started.
Sweet Tip:
As a winner of national and international environmental awards, Auckland Zoo is recognized as one of the most progressive zoos in the world. From downtown, it’s a quick and easy bus ride to check out 117 different species and more than 700 animals.