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New Zealand has a lot of natural beauty, but if you’re looking for a city to spend some time in, Auckland is the place to be. You can see most of the city’s main attractions in a day, but it’s worth staying longer to use Auckland as a base for day trips to nearby islands and the coastline. Plus, Auckland is a foodie’s paradise with plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants serving up amazing food.
To do: Mount Eden
Mount Eden is the highest point in Auckland and offers panoramic views of the city, peninsula, and surrounding islands. You can walk around the volcanic crater and enjoy the stunning cityscape from every angle.
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To do: Auckland Domain
Auckland Domain is a large park with beautiful gardens, pagodas, and the Auckland Museum. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, no matter the season.
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To do: Wintergardens
Located within Auckland Domain, the Wintergardens feature two large greenhouses filled with tropical plants.
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To do: Waitemata Harbour
Waitemata Harbour is a picturesque area with waterfront restaurants and sailing boats. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoy an ice cream, and soak in the views of the bridge and surrounding islands.
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To do: Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Spend the morning exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and coves, then embark on a wine tour in the afternoon. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunset at Cable Bay or Mudbrick.
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To do: Explore Ponsonby
Ponsonby is a vibrant neighborhood in central Auckland. It’s filled with specialty coffee shops, unique fashion boutiques, and charming terraces. Take a day to explore this part of the city and visit any stores that catch your eye.
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Brunch: Bestie
For a brunch with a Middle Eastern twist, visit Bestie. They offer dishes like eggs rolled in dukkah or fried in chili butter, served with sides of beetroot hummus and labneh. Bestie is located in a plant-filled historic arcade overlooking Myers park. Other notable cafes in Auckland include Pollen and Chuffed.
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Coffee: Daily Daily
For a taste of Japan in bustling Auckland, check out Daily Daily. This zen specialty coffee shop has a minimalist design and is decorated with handmade ceramics and travel magazines. Enjoy expertly brewed coffee while flipping through the magazines. Other specialty coffee shops to try include Allpress Coffee and Millers Coffee.
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Something sweet: Giapo
Giapo is the go-to place for gelato in Auckland. They create innovative flavors daily and offer a unique experience. At Giapo, you can sample all the flavors before making your selection. Each cone comes with specially designed toppings that complement the ice cream.
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