A great place to start your Auckland foodie tour is the Auckland Fish Market. Get some fresh seafood and try some local delicacies like kina and paua. Take a seat at one of the vendors' restaurants for a waterfront view and don't forget to try some award-winning fish and chips.
Giapo is a unique ice cream shop that offers flavors like hokey pokey, pavlova, and kumara (sweet potato). Be ready to stand in line for this award-winning, artful dessert that's made fresh right in front of you with locally and globally sourced ingredients.
On Saturdays, head to the Parnell Farmers' Market for organic and artisanal finds. From fresh organic produce to homemade bread, artisanal cheese, and coffee from a local roaster, it's a great opportunity to try some local flavors.
Ponsonby Road is a must-visit destination for foodies. The street is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants that offer a diverse range of food options. Make sure to stop by the Ponsonby Central Market for artisanal and specialty finds.
The Matakana Farmers' Market is a great weekend getaway that offers locally sourced food and produce, including seafood, meats, cheese, and organic produce. Try some artisan cheese from the Puhoi Cheese factory or enjoy an alfresco lunch.
Oyster & Chop is a seafood-focused restaurant that specializes in oysters, seafood platters, and meats. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city near the waterfront, and it also has a great selection of New Zealand's best wines and craft beers.
Cassia is a modern Indian restaurant that offers a fusion of Indian and Kiwi flavors. The restaurant has an extensive list of cocktails and local wines, and it even has options for dietary restrictions like vegan and gluten-free.
Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar is a bustling eatery that offers New Zealand-inspired food. The restaurant is known for its oyster selection, seafood dishes, and tasty desserts. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with local craft beer and wine.
Savor is a unique food court that showcases food from top celebrity chefs from around the world. There are a variety of cuisines to choose from, including Japanese, Italian, and Thai. It's the perfect spot for a quick bite and some people watching.
Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings at The Chocolate Boutique. The shop offers a huge selection of chocolate treats and prides itself on using only high-quality ingredients. It's a great spot to pick up gifts and souvenirs too.
Euro is a modern European brasserie that offers an extensive menu that includes meat dishes, seafood, and salads. Don't miss out on the restaurant's signature dish, beef tartare. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere with local and international wines.
Jervois Steakhouse is a meat lover's paradise, with a wide selection of American, Australian, and Kiwi beef cuts. The restaurant also has an extensive list of wines, craft beer, and cocktails. For non-meat-eaters, there are seafood and vegetarian options available.
Queen's Cafe Bistro is a cozy spot that offers delicious bistro food. The cafe has a great selection of tea and coffee, and the brunch menu is a crowd-pleaser with homemade bread, pastries, and classic breakfast dishes. Enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere.
End your foodie tour with a comforting bowl of handmade noodles at the Eden Noodles Cafe. The cafe uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to make their savory soups and noodle dishes. It's a great spot for a budget-friendly meal and the perfect way to end your Auckland culinary adventure!
As most of the locations are within the city center, using public transportation like buses, trains, and ferries is an easy and affordable way to get around. The AT HOP card offers discounted fares and can be used on all modes of transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are also readily available, but fares can be more expensive during peak hours.
The estimated travel cost for public transportation in Auckland is around $80 for two weeks, and taxi and Uber fares vary depending on the distance and time of day.
If you have more time, you can take a day trip to nearby wine regions like Waiheke Island or Kumeu. Both regions offer wine tours, tastings and have some great food options.
If you have less time, you can skip the day trips and focus on exploring the city center, as most of the foodie destinations are situated within walking distance or a short ride away.
Auckland has only one airport, the Auckland Airport (AKL), which is located about 21 km (13 miles) south of the city center. The airport offers a variety of international and domestic flights, and it's connected to the Downtown by bus, taxi or Uber. The travel time from the airport to the city center is around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.