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Shopping in Auckland

Auckland has an ever-increasing reputation for being an excellent shopping destination, with a vibrant homegrown fashion industry and retailers stocking all the latest international designer labels. The Kiwi fashion industry is at the cutting edge, taking (as the food industry once did) influences from Europe, Polynesia and the Pacific Rim and then, through the process of fusion, coming up with a unique style.

Key areas

Good fashion outlets are mainly located in the city centre, notably the High Street. Local names include Karen Walker, Marla Brajkovic, Workshop and World. Don't miss Fabric (5 High Street) which sells quality brands like Citizens of Humanity. For jewellery, Fingers (2 Kitchener Street) stocks creations from dozens of top native designers, while Pauanesia (35 High Street) is a celebration of Polynesian handcrafted items and gifts.

Another key area is Ponsonby Road. One of the hippest streets in New Zealand, it's home to one-off and funcky boutiques.

Markets

Auckland has a wide selection of markets to choose from.

For fresh seasonal produce and food, head to Parnell Farmers Market (545 Parnell Road), City Farmers' Market (Britomart), Oratia Farmers' Market (99 Parrs Cross Road), and Grey Lynn Farmers' Market (510 Richmond Road).

For bric-a-brac and colourful crafts, Otara Flea Market (Newbury Street) and Takapuna Beach Night Market are excellent choices.

For an eclectic range of vintage, retro, and fashion, Ponsonby Road Market and Aotea Square Markets are your best bet.

Shopping centres

There are a few shopping centres in and around the city: Sylvia Park (Mt Wellington Highway) and Botany Town Centre (Chapel Road), as well as five Westfield malls dotted across the city.

Opening hours

Shops are usually open on weekdays from 0900-1700, with late-night shopping on Friday until 2100 in some parts of central Auckland, such as Queen Street. In these areas, and some of the larger suburban shopping malls, you can shop on Saturday 0900-1700 and Sunday from about 1000 until 1600.

Souvenirs

For souvenirs and gifts a fine option is Maori and Polynesian traditional crafts and items made from pounamu (greenstone), surf wear or outdoor wear, a kauri wood carving or All Blacks memorabilia.

Tax information

Sales tax is 15%. Provided receipts are kept, visitors can claim a tax refund at the airport or through the local New Zealand high commission or embassy upon return.

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Featured Hotels

The Langham

Oozing classic style, the Langham is one of Auckland's top hotels and offers all the creature comforts that go with the luxury tag, including a spa and fine dining options. Rooms are elegantly furnished and spacious, and service is meticulously attentive. Ideally situated in the city centre, the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Custom Street, near the waterfront.

Jucy Snooze Hotel

This oddly-named but friendly budget hotel features bright, simple rooms with flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms; there are also cheaper, more basic, hostel-style rooms. As well as an on-site coffee shop, the hotel offers a lounge and shared kitchen facilities. The hotel is a short walk from the waterfront, with its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

City Lodge

It won't win any design awards, but City Lodge offers central accommodation that is secure, comfortable and great value. Small, simple rooms come with tiny en-suite bathrooms, minifridges, TVs and biggish windows. There's also Wi-Fi (additional charge), a shared kitchen and quiet reading room. A great backpackers' option in Auckland's overcrowded budget market.

The Heritage

Auckland's most distinctive luxury hotel was originally the city's best known and historic department store, Farmers. The landmark building has an iconic reputation and is a wonderful example of Southern Hemisphere art deco styling. The Heritage has two separate accommodation wings, made up of 467 rooms and suites, a tennis court and two swimming pools (one roof-top). There's also a health club, a glass atrium and, best of all, a grand tearoom with fantastic views of the harbour. Though showing its age somewhat (although its due for a refurb), this grand old Auckland hotel is style and luxury personified.

Grand Windsor

This recently renovated and renamed art deco era hotel (formerly the Mercure Windsor) is located in the heart of central Queen Street. Surrounded by shops, theatres and restaurants, it's just a short walk away from CBD, Viaduct Harbour, the ferry terminals and Vector Arena. With 79 rooms, most with kitchenettes, the Grand Windsor offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, spa and sauna.

Princeton Apartments

Centrally located, within five minutes’ walk to Queen Street restaurants, shops, and the Sky Tower, Princeton Apartments offer simple and affordable rooms for travellers on a budget. Apartments can accommodate 1 to 4 people and include a shared kitchen and bathroom.

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