From an eclectic hotel that draws inspiration from the volcanic landscape to a must–try Maori food truck, here are a few of our favourite spots in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city.
Food Trucks and Fancy Stays in Auckland, New Zealand
Where to Stay
Check in to SO/ Auckland —
This fashion–forward property opened last year, complete with a rooftop bar that overlooks the harbour and a gold Bentley SUV for ferrying guests around town. Eclectic Kiwi designer World is responsible its colourful, textural interiors inspired by the country’s volcanic origins, including custom wallpaper and staff uniforms.
Where to Eat
Sip a spritz at Amano —
Tucked away in Britomart (a buzzy shopping district filled with shops, cafés and restaurants), this bakery–bar–restaurant is both high–design and low–key, mixing concrete, leather and wood with bunches of dried flowers hanging from the high ceilings. Take it all in from your seat at the bar with a bittersweet Cappelletti Spritz.
Fill up on fresh pasta at Coco’s Cantina —
This year marked the 10th anniversary of this beloved Italian spot by sisters Renee and Damaris Coulter. Come for the daily pasta happy hour (4–6 p.m.) and choose from a plate of pomodoro or the weekly special, which could be orecchiette with peas, mascarpone and mint sauce.
Photo: Genie De Wit
Dig into tua tua fritters at Pūhā & Pākehā —
Join locals in obsessively tracking the location of this Maori street–food truck, which often sets up at festivals and outside brew pubs. Owners Belinda and Jarrad Mckay craft superb dishes like a Reuben sandwich with hāngi–smoked pastrami, and tua tua (similar to a mussels) fritters with kina chili chive mayo.
Where to Shop
Stroll down fashionable Ponsonby —
Lined with a who’s who of Kiwi designer boutiques, Ponsonby Road (offering views of downtown Auckland and the surrounding mountains and ocean) is ideal for a sunny city stroll. Stop in at Kate Sylvester for colourful, feminine clothing, Elle + Riley Cashmere for luxe loungewear, and Duck Island Ice Cream for a small–batch scoop in flavours like orange blossom chocolate chip and raspberry coconut coriander.