Destination Inspiration: Auckland, New Zealand

Why go?

Auckland balances nature and metropolis with characteristic Kiwi ease. Skyscrapers taper out to beaches and mountains, where city dwellers trek up volcanic peaks or set sail to the wineries of Waiheke Island. Māori and European cultures coexist as increasing immigration brings Polynesian and Asian influences.

Known as Tāmaki Makaurau in Māori, New Zealand’s biggest city is also its entertainment capital. Museums, farmers’ markets, vintage shops, and leafy parks create an urban lifestyle that makes its inhabitants happy. Even through visitor’s eyes, it’s not hard to see why.

As a pink sunset lights up the Sky Tower, bars in Viaduct Harbour pour glasses of local Sauvignon Blanc, and K Road’s graffiti-clad shopfronts open for art shows and craft beer tastings. Restaurants in Ponsonby and Mount Eden serve delicacies like sashimi, abalone and roast lamb – not to mention the best coffee this side of the equator.

When to go?

Northern-hemisphere-dwellers should know that seasons are reversed here. That means you can bask in a pleasant May autumn, or a refreshing September spring. These months are the best time to go, as the weather is as lovely as ever, but with fewer tourists than peak summer months.

Where to stay?

Eden Park Bed and Breakfast Inn – Auckland, New Zealand

This B&B exudes Kiwi friendliness in every aspect. Upon arrival, the owners (a sweet husband-and-wife duo) give you a warm welcome and sightseeing tips. The house is turn-of-the-century, with four cosy guestrooms and lush gardens. In the morning, you’ll be served a gourmet breakfast, after which you can take a short bus ride to the centre.

Hotel DeBrett – Auckland, New Zealand

This super funky hotel is right in the centre of Auckland. The decor is all brick walls and dangling lights, the colours warm and rich. The prime location means you’re surrounded by all of Auckland’s best sights, bars, and restaurants – but don’t miss a drink at the on-site Housebar, or dinner at DeBretts Kitchen, a finalist in the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Awards 2012.

Okura River Estate B&B – Auckland, New Zealand

Set on the banks of the Okura River, this B&B is so idyllic you’d think you were in the middle of nowhere. In fact, this oasis of nature and calm is only a 20-minute drive north of Auckland’s centre. Booking.com guests rave about the down-to-earth owners Deb and Don, along with the beautiful water views and the resident donkeys and horses.

Princes Wharf – Private Apartments – Auckland, New Zealand

These one-bedroom apartments score top marks for their fantastic location and extensive facilities. Right on the Viaduct Harbour, they come with a balcony, full kitchen, washer-dryer, and spacious living room. Booking.com guests especially praised the owner for his helpfulness, and extra touches like the super-soft, ironed bed linen.

Ponsonby Manor Guest House – Auckland, New Zealand

There’s a reason this charming hotel is called ‘Ponsonby Manor’. Built in 1865, the little white house is accented with everything you’d expect to find in a proper English estate – stained glass windows, floral bedspreads, an extensive teacup collection – but all with a laidback Kiwi vibe. The location is a big guest favourite, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and Ponsonby’s coolest bars.