Auckland is a small compact, but happening city. The largest in New Zealand and dominated by the infamous Sky Tower - the highest observation tower in the southern hemisphere.
The Auckland Central Backpackers, just off the main shopping street, Queen Street. Great location and facilities all for $27 a night. I was staying long term though and it isn't the best for staying longer than 5 night...
moreAuckland is a small compact, but happening city. The largest in New Zealand and dominated by the infamous Sky Tower - the highest observation tower in the southern hemisphere.
The Auckland Central Backpackers, just off the main shopping street, Queen Street. Great location and facilities all for $27 a night. I was staying long term though and it isn't the best for staying longer than 5 night...
moreAuckland is a small compact, but happening city. The largest in New Zealand and dominated by the infamous Sky Tower - the highest observation tower in the southern hemisphere.
The Auckland Central Backpackers, just off the main shopping street, Queen Street. Great location and facilities all for $27 a night. I was staying long term though and it isn't the best for staying longer than 5 nights.
As with most cities, you are spoilt for choice with places to eat, drink and party. There are several places in the main high street - The Fat Camel, The Base - both central backpackers with cool bars and cheap drinks. The viaduct area just off the main stomping yard, is extremely happening with the token Irish bar (Danny's) attracting the majority of people who want to dance until the early hours.
Another area out of the city for entertainment is Karangahape Road or The 'K'Road as most people call it. The is where the main gay scene is - a bar called Family is popular and they often have drag queen competitions and other events. The street is lined with bars and clubs to keep even the fussiest people happy.
Auckland is on a par with Australia when it comes to prices - it's around about $7-$8 for a pint of beer and about $6 for a spirit & mixer.
New Zealand is really quite small, so Auckland is a great place to have as your base. There are two islands worth visiting and there are direct ferries from the city. Waiheke Island is very picturesque and is about relaxing on the beach and going to wineries. It's useful to have a car here, although you can rent scooters on the island for $60 for the day. Rangitoto Island is an extinct volcano (as are most of the hills and islands) and offers a great 3 hour walk to the summit for a view of the city.
A must when staying in Auckland is to go up to the top of the skytower ($18 for backpackers) for a fantastic view of the city - great to watch sunset from. Another great vantage point is Mount Eden (free!) - you can see both sides of the north island coastline.
It's very easy to get around the city with the Link Bus - big green busses loop the main areas of the city every 10 minutes all for $1.60 per journey.
All in all, Auckland has a lot to offer and can be a gateway to visiting the rest of the New Zealand.
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