One Perfect Day in Auckland

Where to start in this sparkling harbour city that’s rich in culture and natural beauty? Survey the scene from the city’s highest volcanic peak, Maungawhau/Mount Eden, then dive in. New Zealand’s largest and liveliest city was known to its original inhabitants as Tāmaki Makaurau, which means “Tāmaki, desired by many”. Today, the modern metropolis is no less desirable – as a tourist destination, business hub and home to almost 1.7 million people. Auckland offers a vibrant melting pot of experiences; take in breathtaking panoramas of the Hauraki Gulf islands from the observation deck of the iconic Sky Tower, or embark on an epicurean adventure at acclaimed restaurants such as The Grove, FISH and Cassia. The Weta Workshop’s immersive Unleashed exhibition is one of the city’s top attractions, where the cinematic secrets behind the sets and effects of fantasy, horror and sci-fi blockbusters are revealed. To the west of the CBD, New Lynn’s brick-and-ceramic-works heritage is honoured alongside its vibrant present and at the lofty Te Ara I Whiti/Lightpath cycleway, pink (the colour of the path) is the new black.

Rise and climb 

07:00: Mōrena (good morning) Auckland! Five kilometres from the CBD, watch the city wake up from the summit of Maungawhau/Mount Eden. At 196 metres tall, it’s Auckland’s highest volcanic cone and you can easily reach the base of the mountain by car from the CBD. Walk the path to the summit (30 minutes from the car park, at a gentle pace), winding past three craters and historic Māori terraces and food-storage pits. The view from the top is 360 degrees of land, sea (both of the city’s harbours are on display) and summits. From here, you can salute nearby Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill, which rises from the green acres of Cornwall Park. Back at street level, on Mount Eden Road, it’s a short walk to The Return of Rad, a welcoming example of Auckland’s buzzing café culture. The staff are cool and friendly, sending out excellent Flight coffee and one of the best eggs Benedict you’ll find in the city. Enjoy it with house-cured South Island salmon or pulled bacon hock and apple slaw.

Step back in time

10:00: After breakfast, head to the Tāmaki Paenga Hira/Auckland Museum, which sits on a knoll in the Auckland Domain. Housed in one of New Zealand’s finest heritage buildings, the institution is a worthy first stop for visitors wishing to gain an insight into New Zealand and its peoples. Expect priceless Māori and Pasifika treasures, amazing natural history artefacts and a variety of special exhibitions and events. The Tūī Package, which includes a Māori cultural performance, brings context to one of the museum’s most popular displays, the Māori Court, with its war waka (canoe), traditional buildings and information about the migration of Polynesian peoples to New Zealand. Upstairs, the war memorial offers a moment of reflection. While you could easily spend a whole day taking in the fascinating galleries, a guided 45-minute highlights tour is also available for anyone on a tighter schedule. In the museum’s store, you’ll find a curated selection of artworks, books and quirky Kiwiana souvenirs.

Away with the ferries 

12:00: From the museum, take a 10-minute walk to Parnell Road. Next to the historic sandstone and brick Ferry Building, you can purchase a return ticket to Waiheke Island. The ferry trip across Waitematā Harbour and out to the Hauraki Gulf takes 40 minutes. The island is famous for its beautiful bays, superb cuisine and notable vineyards but wine isn’t the only drop bottled here. The cellar door of Waiheke Brewing Co and Waiheke Whisky is nestled amongst 1.6 hectares of manicured gardens, a 10-minute drive east of the Kennedy Port Ferry Terminal where you’ll be able to call for a taxi. After you’ve sampled a beer flight or dram of their award-winning amber nectar in the tasting room, head to The ‘Heke, a relaxed, pet-friendly diner specialising in dishes cooked over an open flame, such as smash burgers, locally-sourced lamb rump and wood-fired pizzas. Alternatively, head a little further inland to the village of Oneroa. After a walk along the tree-shaded, white-sand bay – or a quick swim – have lunch at The Oyster Inn, where the kitchen is open all afternoon from midday. Much of the seafood, produce and well-matched wines are locally sourced. Overwhelmed by choice? Let the team at Ananda Tours guide you through the island’s best cellar doors and restaurants by helicopter or private car.

Home and hosed 

16:00: Back on the mainland, stroll to the end of Queens Wharf – adjacent to the Ferry Building – to see The Lighthouse, one of the city’s large-scale public artworks. Eminent New Zealand artist Michael Parekōwhai has created a full-size replica of the country’s historic timber state houses, his version twinkling with lights to signify a safe harbour and welcome visitors to the city.

Stretch your legs

17:00: Ready for some gentle exercise? Head for the “pink path”, or Te Ara I Whiti/Lightpath. This former stretch of motorway infrastructure has been reworked into a magenta cycleway and walking trail that’s lined with interactive lighting. Walkers and cyclists freewheel above the traffic, taking in CBD views from a different perspective. The Lightpath connects with other commuter cycleways but for your whirlwind visit, a round trip starting from the Canada Street entrance will be a pleasant diversion through the heart of the city.

Take a load off 

18:00: After your amble, you’ll be ready to relax. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far to find the coolest spot in the city to rest your legs. The Britomart precinct is a buzzing retail and hospitality hub where, on summer afternoons, you can drop into a beanbag and enjoy music from a DJ as you sip a drink from the roving cocktail trolley. Nearby, grab a bite at Hotel Britomart and if you’re in the mood to shop, local labels Zambesi and Karen Walker are in the neighbourhood, alongside international favourites Tiffany & Co., MAC Cosmetics and Lululemon Athletica.

Wander Ponsonby Road 

19:30: From Britomart, head towards Ponsonby Road, Auckland’s restaurant mile, a popular hub where you can get a taste of the city’s stellar dining scene. Ponsonby Central, a converted industrial building, has options for all palates (and lighter meals if you’re still full from lunch). Taking the street frontage is The Blue Breeze Inn, a great spot for both people-watching and food that matches the modern-Chinese-meets-Blue-Hawaii feel. On a balmy night, ask for a seat on the verandah and indulge in chef Che Barrington’s lauded dishes, from crayfish and tiger prawn wontons to truffled mushroom fried rice. Order one of the bar’s signature rum cocktails to enhance the island vibe.

Fancy a nightcap? 

22:00: If you’re not ready to retire, the streets around Ponsonby Central are home to some of Auckland’s coolest bars. Join crowds of inner-city locals in the beer garden at Bedford Soda & Liquor or enjoy the music scene, happy hour and late-night service (through to three or four am, depending on the day) at stalwart Grand Central. If you’re into great cocktails, you’ll find a hip atmosphere and topnotch bartenders at Deadshot or the sleek Rooftop at QT bar, where your expertly crafted tipple comes with a side of city skyline views.

Rest your head

After a packed day of urban exploration, cultural curiosity and culinary delight, be sure to get a good night’s sleep. Choose a bay-facing Executive Lounge room on one of the higher floors of the Crowne Plaza Auckland and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic ocean views and access to the Executive Lounge, a relaxing retreat on the hotel’s top floor where you can enjoy two hours of complimentary drinks and canapés every evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

 

SEE ALSO: Experience the Charm of New Zealand’s Waiheke Island