Why Auckland is the ultimate weekend retreat

Despite being New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland isn’t the concrete jungle some might think. It’s home to luxury hotels and spas, incredible international cuisine, and breathtaking natural wonders. 

In only 24 hours, you could relax at a top-tier spa, visit a vineyard on a subtropical island, and enjoy dinner at a 5-star restaurant. Have we piqued your interest? Here’s why we recommend Auckland for your next weekend getaway. 

Cozy up in luxury and style

Hilton Auckland's outdoor lap pool has a unique underwater viewing window | Image credit: Hilton Auckland

If you’re wanting to book somewhere special to stay in the heart of Auckland city, there are plenty of hotels to check out. 

SkyCity is one of Auckland’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit entertainment destination with three signature hotels. 

For a modern, spacious and affordable option in the city centre, check in at the SkyCity Hotel. The 4+ star hotel is one of two in the casino complex, with options for city or harbour views. Whichever you'd prefer, all rooms come with a private bathroom, LCD television, minibar, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi.  

For understated luxury, head to The Grand by SkyCity. This 5-star hotel has all the extras that you'd expect with spacious, minimalist, and super comfortable rooms. Or, check out SkyCity's newest 5-star opening, Horizon by SkyCity, thoughtfully designed using locally crafted furnishings. Guests can enjoy a signature restaurant with a private dining room, open-air courtyard and a 24-hour gym. 

Love being by the water? Stay at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour. This hotel is contemporary luxury to a tee, and the perfect place for those who prefer a bit of peace and quiet. Nearby, the nautically-inspired Hilton Auckland offers incredible panoramic harbour and city views from every room. 

Nestled amongst some of the country’s best restaurants, bars and cafes, The Hotel Britomart is a popular choice. Step outside into tree-lined laneways where you'll find designer stores and upmarket shopping experiences.
 

Indulge in a day spa treatment

Enter a sanctuary inspired by the five elements and traditional Chinese medicine at the Chuan Spa | Image credit: Cordis Chuan Spa

What's a better way to relax than to pair a holiday with a spa trip? Release those good old happy hormones at one of these luxurious locations. 

Tucked away on level two of the Cordis hotel, the Chuan Spa is a sanctuary inspired by the five elements and traditional Chinese medicine. Choose from an assortment of treatments before taking a dip in the heated rooftop pool, or warm up in the steam room or sauna.  

Aptly named, The Spa at the Park Hyatt hotel carefully curates the ultimate health and wellbeing experience. On offer? A variety of spa packages, two heated spa pools, a unique Himalayan salt sauna and steam room.  

One of Auckland's most popular day spas is the Sofitel Spa. Feel the stress and tension melt away with a collection of revitalising treatments and skin-boosting experiences. And, as an extra little perk, enjoy complimentary snacks and herbal tea after your treatment.  

For something a bit different, check out Ayurda Wellness & Spa on Ponsonby's Road. The boutique day spa offers authentic Ayurvedic treatments to leave you feeling recharged and rejuvenated.  

Discover some of the best places to eat and drink

Settle in for spectacular sunset views, a glass of bubbles, and deliciously fresh food at Soul Bar & Bistro | Image credit: Soul Bar & Bistro

If you’re an avid foodie who loves searching for new spots, you're in luck! Here are some of our favourites. 

Let’s start central. Auckland's Sky Tower has two high-rise bars where you can drink up both a delicious cocktail and the unspoiled views of city and sea. SkyBar offers a stellar range of cocktails to impress even the fussiest of cocktail-drinkers, while The Sugar Club welcomes guests with its signature cocktail menu.  

For the ultimate Sky City dining experience, head to Orbit - New Zealand’s only rotating restaurant with epic 360-degree views. It serves up a modern set-menu using the finest local and seasonal produce. 

Step out of Sky City’s main lobby and onto Federal Street, lined with restaurants by some of New Zealand’s renowned chefs. Depot Eatery's relaxed vibes are inspired by the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle, while Federal Delicatessen provides a unique New York City-inspired diner atmosphere. 

If you’re looking to try some of the best Pacific Island traditional cuisines in town, Metita is the spot to visit. MASU by Nic Watt is also a must-try for the lovers of Japanese cuisine – be sure to order the sashimi, or charcoal robata grill-cooked meat and seafood, to tickle your tastebuds.  

In Auckland’s vibrant Viaduct Harbour, there are bars and restaurants in every direction. Dr Rudi’s rooftop bar is a great spot to enjoy a sundowner or two. Think stunning seaside views, an extensive menu of craft beers, and pizza by the foot! The BBQ Brisket Pizza is a must-try for meat-lovers. 

Nearby Asian fusion restaurant Hello Beasty's 'Feed Me' menu is a must-try - the chefs will treat you to their selection. Or, head to Soul Bar & Bistro and settle in for spectacular sunset views, a glass of bubbles and a platter of fresh local oysters.  

For an interactive dining experience, Eight by Cordis Auckland allows you to browse eight international kitchen stations and watch as your meal is created to your taste, right in front of you. 

Each kitchen prepares and cooks up authentic flavours from all corners of the world, from freshly made sushi and juicy steaks, to woodfired pizzas and traditional Indian curries. And, to finish off, dig into Eight’s grand chocolate fountain – the most decadent dessert of all.

Explore Auckland’s natural wonders 

Enjoy golden sandy beaches, vast vineyards, pristine waters, and chilled island vibes on the wonderful Waiheke Island.

Another great way to unwind and switch off from the busyness of life is by going outdoors and enjoying nature. Auckland offers the best of both worlds – vibrant city life and outdoor adventures. From lush native bush to the many beaches that jewel Auckland’s coastline and surrounding islands, there's an outdoor experience for everyone to enjoy.  

If you’re stretched for time, there are plenty of options within walking distance of the city centre. Take a short stroll down Auckland’s Quay Street and discover a variety of hidden gems along the waterfront. It’s a wonderful place to stop and grab a coffee, while soaking up the gorgeous views of boats, yachts and crystal-clear waters.  

There’s also a range of parks close to the heart of the city that make for the perfect nature walk, run, or picnic. Albert Park is nestled behind Auckland Art Gallery, offering views over the city, and lots of green spaces to relax under some of the city’s oldest trees. 

Auckland Domain is one of Auckland’s much-loved parks, offering nature walks, winter gardens, a duck pond, band rotunda, and even sports fields for those interested in watching a social game of cricket.  

Of course, Auckland also has something to suit the more adventurous, like climbing to the top of Rangitoto Island's volcanic summit. Book the ultimate kayak adventure with Auckland Sea Kayaks’ Sunset Tour to Rangitoto Island, enjoy a guided trek to the summit for some of the most unspoiled views in Auckland, and share a delicious BBQ by the water’s edge before taking a slow paddle back to the city.  

Take a 40-minute ferry from downtown Auckland over to Waiheke Island with Fullers 360, and experience the wonders of natural island beauty. It's the epitome of relaxation, with its golden sandy beaches, vast vineyards, pristine waters, and chilled island vibes. 

From wining and dining at award-winning vineyards, exploring the island’s boutique art galleries, or ziplining through native forest with EcoZip Adventures, there’s plenty of unique things to do on Waiheke Island.