Guide12 hours Auckland

Aucklanders revel in most meal times, and let’s face it who doesn’t, but breakfast is simply not to be skipped. Head to Orphans Kitchen for a hip interpretation on a kiwi brekkie. Delight in a Southland Cheese Roll like you’ve never tasted before, or venture off the culinary beaten track with dishes such as fried eggs, kumura tortilla with mole, sauerkraut and chilli. Supreme coffee is served with much aplomb.     

If you’re feeling peckish after all that walking, it’s probably time for lunch. Federal Delicatessen will provide ample sustenance for your midday meal with their take on an old-school NYC Jewish deli. With Al Brown at the helm, you can expect a bunch of Best Ugly Bagel options, spit-roast chicken, pastrami and plenty of poutine. You can also decide if you want to indulge in an Upper East Side cocktail or a bottomless cuppa joe.

From Federal Street, you’re only a stone’s throw from Auckland Art Gallery. We suggest walking here so you get a chance to admire the architecture of both the Civic Theatre, the largest surviving atmospheric cinema in Australasia, and Smith & Caugheys, one of the most iconic department stores in NZ. If you happen to arrive at the gallery before 1.30 pm, you may want to take advantage of one of their daily tours that last 60 minutes and guide you through the art, artists and stories housed within the gallery walls. Otherwise, take it at your own chosen speed, and enjoy the ever-changing exhibitions on display at the country’s largest art institution.

No 12 hours in Auckland would be complete without a trip to Karangahape Road, affectionately known as “K’ Road”.  In this edgier corner of the city, you’ll experience a colourful mix of art spaces, vintage stores and quirky hospitality. Wind down your day with a last minute stop at the Babelogue shop, an exemplary collection of vintage furniture finds. And while you contemplate your growing wish list of vintage homewares, you can swing by nearby Coco's Cantina to sip on some happy hour prosecco. If the weather permits, ask for a table outside. The perfect place to observe the idiosyncrasies of everyone passing by, and to work up an appetite for dinner. 

If you’ve still got some energy reserves, you can cosy up at one of Auckland’s cute neighbourhood bars for a nightcap. We love Bar Martin, Frieda’s and Annabels for their thoughtful ambience and bespoke selection of beers, wines and spirits. These haunts are usually filled with locals, and for good reason.