You’re a newcomer, setting up a new life in Auckland. Likely the first week here has been dominated by work. And house-hunting. And admin.
Come the weekend, it’s time to kick back. Take a break.
You even might be feeling a bit flat.
Wanting to get out the experience the lifestyle that attracted you here …but finding it hard to summon the energy to start researching yet again….
Let us help accelerate your local knowledge with these quintessentially Auckland outings – all within easy access of the CBD:
1. Ferry to the market. Purchase a transit card (AT HOP), and ferry from downtown to the Catalina Bay Farmers Market. You’ll pass under the Harbour Bridge and head west into the lesser known upper harbour. The market is housed in an historic seaplane hanger in Hobsonville Point, former home of the Royal NZ Airforce, now a fast-growing residential area. Once you’ve stocked up on fresh NZ produce, explore the newly-opened coastal walkway.
2. Climb a volcano. Close to the CBD is Mt Eden. Worth visiting for the tranquil 15-minute walk to the summit up a well graded road (closed to cars). From the top you can peer into the crater of this long-extinct volcano and enjoy panoramic views over the city and harbor. A little further past the mountain is the relaxed vibe of Mt Eden village with its cafes and specialist bookstore.
3. Experience a show or movie in Art Deco splendour. Opened in 1929, the Civic is one of the world’s last remaining ‘atmospheric theatres.’ Yes, in Auckland! Decorated in opulent Eastern-meets-Spanish style, it has carved panther statues and a soft-top ceiling creating the effect of a domed blue sky with twinkling stars and floating cloud – magic.
4. Do the bays. Grab a ride-share bike or electric scooter or jump on a bus and head off along Tamaki Drive, skirting the harbor and passing by some of Auckland’s prettiest beaches and residential suburbs. There are plenty of eating, drinking and swimming options along the way. Pat yourself on the back when you reach St Heliers – you’ve travelled 10 km.
5. Take in the art, and the architecture. Spanning a modern pavilion opening through the tree canopy onto Albert Park, and an 1887 original building, the Auckland Art Gallery shows New Zealand art from the contemporary to the historical. Weekends buzz with specialist talks, kids programmes and events. International visitors pay for entry but you live here now, so get in for free.
Bridget is Principal at Mobile Relocation. Working in partnership with HR and executive teams, Mobile helps bring expat staff to fill key roles in companies and organisations throughout New Zealand.
Mobile Relocation - connecting newcomers with what they need to thrive in New Zealand.