Let’s chase: Auckland is trendy. Like uber trendy. The people, cafes, boutiques – are all very trendy. Even the houses dotted along tree-lined paths are what you guessed – trendy. So, what do you do for two days in Auckland? I’m glad you asked!
I recently spent a few days in Auckland and brought this very trendy guide to Auckland, New Zealand. And although four days are probably too much, I think it’s the perfect time to explore the city and absorb the highlights. So, here’s my guide to Auckland!
The World of Auckland’s Wonderlast Guide
First of all, this was not my first visit to Auckland. I have been there many times to visit one of my best friends who lived here. I have been my first visit to Oakland without her as my guide since she was repeated in Los Angeles whenever my friend showed me a new cafe, boutique and an area to explore.
For me, Auckland has always been full of inspiration. The city has a considerable reputation for being a New Zealand design, culture and foodie hub. Certainly, Wellington is an avid candidate. Especially when food or drinks are involved. But if you’re looking for a city that has it all (including the great summer), Auckland is your number one choice.
Go through Ponsonby
To start your Auckland adventure, we highly recommend starting your day at Ponsonby Road. This is where you can find many of Auckland’s best cafes, bakeries, bars and boutiques. And when your exploration of Ponsonby is finished, you can always venture on foot to the nearby Karangaha Pero Road (“K Road”).
Don’t miss these top picks:
Duck Island Ice Cream – OG Ice Creamy at Ponsonby Road. Local favourite.
Little bird – A very vegan eatery with delicious healthy bites (and lunch menu!)
supermarket – A luxurious concept store filled with international and local designers. It focuses primarily on fashion, but also has an incredible selection of household items and beauty/wellness products.
world -Percently French Parff Merry with boogie candles and high fashion pieces.
Cake & Co – A small hole in the wall cake shop. It’s perfect if there’s something to celebrate!
Little & Friday – A small cafe with great takeaway flavors and sweet treats. This was one of my friend Sophie’s cafes and I went there often (and as good as I remember).
Shopping at Ponsonby
As mentioned earlier, Ponsonby has plenty of designer threads, small boutiques and concept stores. There are plenty of shops to explore and great for visiting on foot, so if possible, I recommend parking somewhere near the main street, getting a parking lot on the main street, or exploring the street for at least a few hours.
Visit Bluebell’s Bakery
Once we’ve finished our exploration of Ponsonby, it’s time to park in Bluebell’s bakery for a hit of caffeine and some sweet treats. This is one of my favourite bakeries I’ve visited on this trip and is easy to visit as there is a parking lot right away. The lemon curd cupcakes were outstanding. Additionally, you can see the baking team at work through the viewing window.
Cafes fly around town at these top spots
Speaking of bakeries, I have visited quite a few on this trip! As many people know, I recently opened my new bakery Burkibake House in Brisbaneso checking out Auckland’s thriving baking scene was high on my agenda. There are too many great bakeries and cake shops in Auckland. To name them, please and include my top pick.
Catroux – Fabric True Fund with incredible vegan and dairy-free cake options.
Kker – Once Auckland’s most popular cake shop and was still one of the top candidates. I walked away with my cookbook for future inspiration!
Magnolia Kitchen – You need to hire a car to get to this, but if you love bakery hopping like me, it is certainly worth the extra effort. Magnolia’s team is still doing retail treats, so if you want to try out their merchandise but don’t want to stand the ride, find a local dealer in town instead.
Ripe Deli – Auckland’s best takeaway lunch spot, this deli features plenty of healthy salads and wraps in addition to sweet and delicious treats. A great place to grab a packed lunch before a road trip!
