Auckland never ceases to amaze. So if you need a weekend escape, the most vibrant eateries, best experiences and luxury stays are all just a beat away in the heart of central Auckland.
We’ve teamed up with Visit Auckland to help you plan where to eat, what to do and where to stay on your next home-away-from-home holiday.
Eat
Pici
Proving that simple works best is Pici (pronounced pea-chee), a delectable Italian eatery run by Chef Jonny Thevenard, his partner Gemma Hareb, and fellow chef Kaz Suzuki, who all fell in love with Italy and set up shop in St Kevins Arcade. The trio are bringing ‘honest fare’ to the bustling Karangahape Road strip and by that we mean flavoursome cuisine that’s made fresh every day to perfection. Check out their summer menu before it’s gone, the best cacio e pepe and focaccia in town.
Tanuki’s Cave
You’d be forgiven for thinking you were transported to Japan while dining in Tanuki’s Cave. Tucked down a dark flight of stairs off Queen Street, this dimly lit Yakitori den is reminiscent of hole-in-the-wall restaurants you’d find wandering somewhere in Tokyo or Kyoto. Yakitori skewers take centre stage here with all kinds of vegetables and succulent cuts of meat grilled to perfection.
MoVida
A Melbourne icon for almost two decades, MoVida has officially landed on our shores, bringing its beloved brand of Spanish-style tapas and share plates with it. The brainchild of Barcelona native and acclaimed chef, Frank Camorra, MoVida is the unofficial restaurant that kickstarted Melbourne's obsession with tapas. Now it's Auckland's turn. For big groups, the paellas are a must and for smaller, check out the cecina, air dryed wagyu, potato foam and a poached egg, the textures are other-worldly.
Do
Treat Yourself
If your wardrobe needs a refresh, you’re in the right ‘burb. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new signature scent, quality leather bags or to support New Zealander designers, Downtown Auckland houses two top-notch shopping hubs within walking distance of each other—Britomart and Commercial Bay. Mixing up new and established brands, from here and abroad, one thing's for sure—you're going to want to bring along a whole lot of self-control with that wallet. We love Elle + Riley Cashmere for warmer elegant essentials and WORLD for a more eclectic touch.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed
This wildly immersive 90-minute hosted experience takes you on a journey through the mind-bending world of movie-making. Animatronics, prosthetics, artwork and pre-production departments of the prolific Wētā Workshop gets you up close to the action. Cap off the hands-on Wētā Workshop Unleashed experience with a Fantasy Creative Workshop where you’ll create your own movie landscapes. Feeling creative?
All Blacks Experience
For those who have dreamt of one day donning the black jersey, the All Blacks Experience guided tour is a must. Learn the story, feel the passion and experience what it really means to be part of All Blacks history. You can even test your kicking and catching, and who knows, you may be an undiscovered talent. The Rugby World Cup is just around the corner after all.
Stay
Cordis
You'll get the ultimate dose of luxury with a stay at the Cordis hotel. Elegant and upscale, this place oozes sophistication. When it comes to relaxation, take a dip in the heated rooftop pool and jacuzzi or unwind at the oriental day spa. Come night, enjoy a Kiwi-inspired cocktail at Our Land is Alive—al fresco of course— before gorging at interactive international kitchens at Eight. If you want a lighter affair, try high tea at Chandelier Lounge. With 244 new rooms open in the Pinnacle Tower, you can treat your friends while you're at it.
Hotel Britomart
Check into New Zealand's first-ever Five Green Star hotel—Hotel Britomart. The downtown haven has it all from the unique brick-clad exterior, stylish timber-lined rooms complete with beautifully tiled bathrooms, hand-made ceramics, built-in couches and minibars stacked to the brim with local goodies, you'll certainly be living your best life when you stay here.
Movenpick Hotel
Eat your heart out, the luxury ice cream brand has launched this sweet 207-room spot—Mövenpick Hotel. It comes complete with a 24-hour in-room Sundae Service, and a daily 'Chocolate Hour' where you can watch experts craft cupcakes, chocolate truffles and other treats. Talk about indulgence.
Auckland central has so much on offer. Find all there is to experience and make planning your next visit to Auckland easy at Visit Auckland.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image: Auckland Unlimited and Pici