City Center

The City center mostly surrounds the central business district and is the main focal point in Auckland. The area highlights major hotels, tourist attractions, shops, restaurants, pubs, clubs and bars along with the bus, train and ferry stations. The main street is the famous Queen Street packed with shops, bars, and entertainment, the Viaduct Harbor is another energetic dining and entertainment region. Quay Street is where most of the water tours depart from and Karangahape Road (K-Road) that features more popular nightlife scenes and eateries. Everything is within walking distance in the area along with frequent bus stops and other modes of public transportation. The Auckland Art Gallery is located in this area, Albert Park and Silo Park are where the street markets are held.

North Shore

The North Shore City is a suburban area located to the north of Waitemata Harbor linking to the Auckland area by the Auckland Harbor Bridge and the Upper Harbor Bridge. This contemporary, wealthy location has a hint of California with a large Asian community offering stunning beaches and other attractions including Shoal Bay and Great Barrier Island. Features include hotels, restaurants, and cafes. In the west is the Waitakere City which is known as the wine region.

Parnell

Parnell is a swanky suburb, the oldest in Auckland and one of the prettiest, dating back to the 1800`s. It is New Zealand`s wealthiest neighborhoods and one of the most stylish areas. The district is home to Victorian villas housing some of the best boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafes set on the beautiful tree lined streets with Edwardian townhouses. The area features the beautiful Parnell Rose Gardens and rolling hills along with the Auckland Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral. La Cigale French Market is located in Parnell Village a weekend market filled with fresh produce, cheeses, oils and fresh hot pastries and bread. Parnell has excellent public transportation options that connect directly to the CBD.

Devonport

Devonport is a suburb on the North Shore, a small seaside village just a 10-minute ferry ride from the downtown ferry building or car ride over the Harbor bridge. There are many quaint B&B`s here with the main shopping area situated in Takapuna. The center of the village offers cute cafes, shops, antiques and art galleries and the shores have spectacular beaches. There are two volcanic cones with magnificent views and the area is home to the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Mount Eden

Mount Eden is a wealthy hillside suburb whose name honors George Eden the first Earl of Auckland. Located 2.5 miles south of the CBD, the main road wraps its way around the side of Mount Eden Domain and descends into the village with the focal point of the area being Maungawhau/Mount Eden the dormant volcano with the summit being the highest point in Auckland. There are a dozen or so restaurants and cafes in the small village with some bars and shops with some B&B`s. Located close to the city center with the bus to here from Britomart.

Ponsonby

Ponsonby is classic Auckland, with a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere located just five minutes west of the CBD. A very posh suburb where houses are decorated with wisteria, it was one of the first neighborhoods in Auckland. The area is packed with some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes mixed with shops, boutiques, museums, galleries, and theaters. Live music is a popular pastime and well known for its off the wall nightlife on Karangahape Road (K-Road). The Three Lamps intersection is located at the north end of the street.