Auckland City Guide

Food is diverse with local dishes like Hāngi and pavlova. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Late-night food is available in key areas.

Nightlife includes bars, clubs, and live music in Britomart, Ponsonby, and Karangahape Road.

Excellent coffee scene with many specialty cafes and local roasters. Flat White is popular.

Tipping is not expected or customary. It is optional and usually only for exceptional service.

SIMs are sold at the airport and city shops. Major providers are Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees. eSIMs available with Spark and Vodafone. ID registration is required.

Streets and public spaces are generally clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Some pharmacies have extended hours. Convenience stores often open late or 24/7. Limited late-night medical centers available.

Supermarkets like Countdown, Pak'nSave, and New World are common. Fresh produce markets like Avondale Sunday Market are popular. Most stores open 7 AM–10 PM and some stay open Sundays.

Most places accept card payments, even small shops and cafes.

ATMs from major banks like ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank, and Westpac are common. Your home bank may charge international fees.

Local and international schools offer education mainly in English. Notable ones include Auckland Grammar and Kristin School. Admissions vary, ask early.

Community is mid-sized with meetups and coworking hubs. Informal networking events exist.

Plenty of major parks and green areas with shaded trails and running paths.

Good running routes in parks and along the waterfront. Safe and scenic, with active running clubs and events.

Gyms and community sports centers are widespread.

Many public and club courts. Booking online is common. Coaching and equipment rental available.

Padel is growing, with a few dedicated courts starting to appear.

Lots of yoga studios and meditation centers offering varied classes with English-speaking instructors.

Diverse martial arts options including BJJ, Muay Thai, Karate, and more. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing nearby; closest ski fields are several hours away in the Central North Island.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are common. Rentals and tours widely offered.

Surf spots like Piha and Muriwai are about 45-60 minutes away. Water is cool; wetsuits recommended. Both beginner and advanced spots available.

Diving and snorkeling are possible with good marine life. Beginner sites at Goat Island; more advanced offshore. Equipment and certification centers available.

Good public hospitals and private clinics with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies offer OTC meds and advice. Emergency number is 111.

Tap water is safe to drink.

Many playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés. Attractions like Auckland Zoo and aquarium are popular.

Highly LGBTQ+ friendly with strong legal protections, community spaces, and events like pride.

Pet-friendly places exist but can be limited in rentals. Good vet services and many dog parks.