Ultimate Guide to Visiting Auckland During the Shoulder Season

Find the perfect mix of nature and culture right here.

As an Aucklander living in New York, it’s always intriguing to return home and explore the commonalities shared between both cities. New Zealand shines in the great outdoors, showcasing spectacular nature and idyllic beaches perfect for summer visits. However, Auckland also boasts attractions typical of major global cities, including world-class museums, elegant hotels, and dining venues that leave a lasting impression. These experiences can be enjoyed year-round, but visiting during the shoulder season provides an excellent opportunity to avoid crowds and enjoy more available reservations.

An October day might commence with a refreshing beach walk on the North Shore, followed by a delightful breakfast of eggs benedict paired with a flat white along the trendy Ponsonby Road. Next, immerse yourself in the unique designer boutiques that line the walkable streets, or treat yourself to a local favorite, the Manuka Honey facial, for a post-flight refreshment (after all, it is a lengthy 17-hour flight from New York). If you’re feeling hungry, head to the vibrant city center. The area between Britomart and Wynyard Quarter has seen remarkable transformation over the past five years, teeming with lively restaurants, bars, and shops. Moreover, if the sun is shining, consider taking a ferry to Waiheke Island for a wine tour, where the views over the island-studded Waitemata Harbour justify the journey entirely.

Art enthusiasts should visit the Auckland Art Gallery, which showcases a collection of national masterpieces alongside notable international exhibitions. Additionally, the stately Auckland Museum provides an immersive exploration of the country’s rich history. Furthermore, music plays a significant role in New Zealand’s cultural fabric, with regular concerts throughout the city, sometimes held in unique venues like the Auckland Zoo after hours.

There are numerous exciting ways to populate your itinerary in Auckland during the shoulder seasons. Below, we outline a snapshot of what to prioritize.

Take Part in Cultural Events

During this shoulder season, enjoy one of the numerous concerts by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. These range from Mozart’s Clarinet to Toy Story in Concert. Additionally, check out the events at the Auckland Museum, which hosts Maori cultural performances and torch-lit night tours of the Wonders of Egypt exhibition until mid-November. Various activities, including major sporting matches and theater performances, can be found through Auckland Unlimited, an excellent resource to discover monthly attractions and events.

Discover Auckland’s Diverse Food Scene

Auckland’s multicultural demographic is evident in its diverse restaurant offerings. Any evening, one can find outstanding Asian, Italian, Greek, or French cuisine crafted with fresh local ingredients. Despite experiencing prolonged lockdowns, the number of notable restaurants has expanded in recent years. Popular choices with vibrant atmospheres include Bivacco and Soul, both situated in the Viaduct. The Ponsonby neighborhood also hosts Prego, Andiamo, and Daphnes, where you’ll find many locals enjoying the weekends.

Thanks to its unique geography, Auckland presents an incredible variety of seafood. This is best showcased at the imaginative Kingi in Britomart and Ahi in Commercial Bay. Furthermore, Sky City offers several exceptional dining options, ranging from the Italian-focused Gusto to the Nobu-esque Masu, as well as The Sugar Club, perched atop the Sky Tower, where you may witness thrill-seeking tourists bungee jumping from the other side of the glass.

Shop Until You Drop

The newly opened Commercial Bay serves as Auckland’s equivalent to Hudson Yards—a hub of fashion and food structured within a modern building. Dedicate an afternoon to exploring this complex and the adjacent Britomart district, home to New Zealand’s most celebrated designers, including Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Juliette Hogan, and Zambesi. Additionally, you can find high-end fashion brands such as Dior, Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton nearby. Ponsonby is another fantastic area for shopping (don’t miss Muse and Ruby), as is Newmarket, where a major new Westfield development has rejuvenated the region.

Sleep in Luxury During Your Auckland Stay

The Park Hyatt introduced polished luxury to Auckland City when it opened in 2020. Until recently, the only other five-star option was The Sofitel, but you’ll find a stylish assortment of hotels today, including The Hotel Britomart, QT Auckland (famed for its buzzing rooftop bar), SO/Auckland, and Hotel Fitzroy. Additionally, keep an eye out for the soon-to-launch InterContinental, situated above the Commercial Bay complex.