Where to Stay

You can experience Auckland's extraordinary setting from a vast selection of world-class hotels, serviced apartments, bed and breakfasts, and boutique or backpacker lodges. It pays to choose your location wisely. Despite its size, Auckland has not quite resolved the sensitive issue of public transport. A sensible solution would be to stay near the Central Business District, where it's just a short walk, bus or taxi ride to explore the city's many attractions.

Central Business District

The clusters of boats on the harbor explain Auckland's reputation as the “City of Sails,” and like its sailors, the waterfront is of a high international standard. Thanks largely to the America's Cup 2000, Auckland has finally realized the value of its waterfront, and the recently upgraded Viaduct Harbour is the city's real estate jewel. If you are on business, or just want to be center stage, Auckland's city center is the obvious choice.

If you seek high-class accommodation try the trendy, art-deco luxury of The Heritage Auckland, once the stomping ground for bargain hunters in its former incarnation as the Farmers Trading Company store. For spectacular harbor views on the waterfront, consider the boutique Hilton Auckland, or the Sebel Suites.

Further uptown, in the heart of the city's cultural and entertainment area, the Carlton Hotel promises world-class style, and the aptly named Somerset Grand Metropolis, once the Magistrate's courthouse, is now open to a new clientèle. More reasonable accomodation can be found at the Centra Auckland, the CityLife Auckland and the Sky City Hotel, which has the Sky City Casino downstairs. For those on a budget, there are plenty of options; from the New President Hotel, to Auckland Central Backpackers and the ubiquitous YHA youth hostel.

Parnell

Parnell, close to the city fringe, is a gentrified haven full of trendy eateries and specialist boutiques, which coexist alongside Auckland's historic houses. Parnell is also within walking distance of the trendy shops of Newmarket, and the Domain, a massive park that houses Wintergardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Take your pick from the Ascot Parnell, Chalet Chevron or Barrycourt Motor Inn near the Parnell Rose Gardens.

Mt Eden

Heading south is the suburb of Mt Eden, dominated by the volcano Maungawhau, an ancient fortress. The summit crater is sacred to the Maori. At the base of the mountain is a cool collection of cafes, and sports fans will enjoy easy access to Eden Park, the famous battleground of so many international rugby and cricket matches. Not so genteel, but worth considering is the area around One Tree Hill. Both are sedate suburbs oozing middle-class charm, but they offer a good range of inexpensive hotels. Check out Oaklands Lodge, Pentlands Bed and Breakfast Hotel and Bavaria Bed and Breakfast.

Devonport

Leave the city hype behind by taking a 10 minute ferry ride to Devonport, and delight in its seaside charm and quaint surroundings. This historic village is well supplied with bed and breakfast hotels, many in beautifully renovated Victorian or Edwardian villas. With such comforting names as the Secret Garden Bed and Breakfast, it is little wonder you are transported to another time and place! At night you will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Auckland's city lights.

Alternatives

Ponsonby's main road is studded with restaurants and is a wise choice for the enthusiastic gourmand. There are a number of accommodation options near the main strip. Try the Great Ponsonby Bed and Breakfast or the Brown Kiwi; both are moderately or inexpensively priced.

If you want to escape the city lights and explore nature, then head west to the near-tropical rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges. You will not find five-star hotels, but if you are satisfied with good old Kiwi hospitality there are plenty of cozy home stays and bed and breakfast hotels, some with spectacular views of the west coast beaches. An interesting option out west is Camperdown Farmstay. For a truly escapist holiday or weekend break from Auckland, consider Waiheke Island or the outer islands of Kawau and Great Barrier.