Situated in the Northern Island, Auckland is New Zealand's largest city. For a lot of backpackers, this is a starting point for their wonderful New Zealand trip. And for good reason. This beautiful city is a place packed to the rafters with delicious food, amazing people and stunning art. But while you’re exploring, try to step out of this beautiful city and discover the other gems hidden in the surroundings.
Weather
Thanks to TVNZ
Yep. The classic conversation topic when all the other topics fail. Let's have a chat about the weather guys. While the never-ending summer of New Zealand's big brother Australia doesn't quite stretch along the Tasman Sea, Middle-earth still boasts some pretty decent weather up in New Zealand. The weather in Auckland is relatively moderate, with some windy winters and long summer days. The winters can get a bit colder, but let's be honest the weather is pretty decent most of the time of the year.
Cheap Eats
After the typical conversation about the weather, let's get down to some serious bedroom talk... FOOD, glorious food. I mean, who doesn't love food. Now let us tell you something, if you're in the mood for some good food, you’re headed to the right place here in Auckland. This multi-cultural city is emerging as one of the world's newest and funkiest eatery spots with boutique and gourmet style goodies popping up on every corner. You will never get enough of these fantastic eating spots in Auckland, and we’re about to share some well kept secrets!
Fill up for a fiver New Flavour Restaurant
Thanks to @thefastfoodproject
Here it is, your official excuse to slap on those loose pants you have bought for the trip and enjoy the saucy goodness of Chinese calories. Enter New Flavour Restaurant and prepare to feast on the best Chinese carbs out there: noodles, dumplings and sizzling beef are just the starters. Not only does this place have the sauciest goods in Auckland, but it's also got some of the sauciest prices with dishes available for as little as $5.
Snack on No.1 Pancake
Thanks to @juninsyakuswanto
If this name 'isn't telling you enough, there's not much more we can do to get you to this restaurant. Sweet, savoury, big, small, whatever "PANCAKES" just make sure you get there! This hole-in-the-wall kiosk dishes out the fluffiest and tastiest Korean-style pancakes you have ever tasted. Not only are the pancakes amazing, but here at No.1 Pancake, they’re also cheap and fast. So look no further and just trust us, this place is gold!
Cure your hangover at Big J's Takeaway
Thanks to @100acrefood
No foodie list is complete without the staple burger joint and Big J’s Takeaway is one of the best. Their 'burger of the week' is always a hit with the squad and these handmade patties are seriously all you've ever wanted. Eat off that hangover and pull yourself together because Big J's Takeaway is where it's at.
The best places to party
No trip isn't complete without a good party. So put your hands up if you are in for a party because guess what? We're about to tell you so listen carefully.
Pre-drinks at 16 Tun
Thanks to @_awphotography
Your afternoon pre-drinks will start here. The relaxed vibe and remarkable selection of craft beers will have you under the false impression that you're about to have a civilised night. Best way to start a night isn't it?
Go hard on the Frenzi Bar Crawl
Thanks to Nomads Hostels
Did you run out of your budget while travelling? No worries, we have got you covered. Head down on a Thursday to the free Frenzi Bar Crawl for four free drinks and a hotdog. Like seriously, what more could you want. This bad boy is Auckland's premier bar crawl so prepare to be drinking till you're dancing.
Wander Queen Street and take your pick
Thanks to @sun_jiayao
Want to choose for yourself? Go for a wander down Queen street because here you can never go wrong. This major shopping and dining street is the beating heart of Auckland nightlife; packed with shops, bars and clubs. Drink your way down Queen Street and who knows where you'll end up.
Freebies
Yes we all know it. Travelling the world costs money! But that’s why we love free stuff! Craving a relaxing and fun day without spending money? Just do one of the free activities we have listed below for you.
Climb Mt Eden and take on 360 views of the city
Thanks to @elyseulmer
In for a good exercise and some fresh air? Climb Mt Eden! Take some insta worthy shots while soaking up the beautiful 360 views of the city. This climb up Mt Eden is one of Auckland's best freebies.
Snorkel Goat Island
Thanks to @ brookerileynz
Yeah, you heard us. Grab ya flippers and head over to Goat Island for some seriously stunning and free snorkelling. You probably won’t find any goats here, instead you can enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna the marine reserve has to offer and maybe even spot one of the dolphins
Explore Muriwai Beach
Thanks to @neyshey
This windswept beach is the perfect way to get back to nature as you get up close and personal with some of NZ's resident Gannets and other sea birds.
Must-dos for the bucket list
Get back to nature at Waiheke Island
Thanks to @miss_madelynne
Just a 35-minute boat ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island makes the perfect day trip to get back to nature. This charming little place is home to lush vineyards, sandy beaches and plenty of fresh air. If you're ever in need of a non-alcohol related pick me up (it's rare but still), then this is the spot for you.
Unleash your inner nerd at Hobbiton
Thanks to @michael.taveras
Nerds, unite! This is the moment we've been waiting for. You simply can't visit 'Middle-earth' and not visit the Hobbiton Movie set in Matamata. See where the action came to life and take some cute selfies while you are there. Geek yourself out loud and proud.
Visit the glow worms at Waitomo Caves
Thanks to @glowwormcaves
Experience NZ's most extensive cave system on a ride through the underworld. If you've ever wondered how a worm could become so popular, you've obviously never met the local glow worms here. These guys make for one hell of a picture. Trust us, Waitomo Caves are definitely worth the trip.
The End of the Road
There’s loads of stuff to do in and around this amazing city. From good to eats to great views Auckland is a stunning place and a great start to any New Zealand trip. Did we miss any of your favourite spots? Let us know on our Facebook.
Heading to Auckland? Check out our latest New Zealand deals and get to exploring.
