Where to Eat, Drink, and Shop in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, a vibrant harbor city, is situated on an active volcanic field, ensuring a deep connection to nature in every aspect of life. New Zealanders take pride in their sustainability practices: the country maintains a nuclear-free status; weekends are often spent at the beach or hiking through lush landscapes; many locals incorporate produce from farmers' markets or home gardens into their daily meals.

It's no surprise that Auckland is home to a restaurant like Pasture, which emphasizes fermentation, locally sourced ingredients, nose-to-tail butchery, and natural New Zealand wines. However, there are numerous other spots in Auckland where you can discover locally made, sustainable products.

K Road

Begin your journey on Karangahape Road, or K Road, a vibrant artery in the Central Business District. This area boasts an array of vintage shops and is home to the renowned Flying Out record store, associated with the iconic Kiwi label Flying Nun. Pick up some vinyl, then enjoy a glass of prosecco and a bowl of polenta fries at Coco’s Cantina, a beloved local spot that champions independent businesses and the K Road community.

Ponsonby

Just outside the city center on Ponsonby Road, you'll discover some of the finest boutiques, cafes, bars, and restaurants in the city. Explore unique vintage treasures like salvaged signs and retro ceramics at Flotsam & Jetsam, then stroll a few doors down to Curio Noir, which offers a range of rich, intricate fragrances and candles crafted in handblown glass. The women's wear boutique Widdess features garments made from natural materials, with all items produced within a 12-mile radius of the shop. Conclude your shopping day at Annabel’s, which boasts an impressive selection of New Zealand and international wines in a stylish, spacious setting, before dining at Orphans Kitchen, situated in a charming 1912 Victorian villa, offering sustainable dishes featuring indigenous ingredients.

Piha Beach

No trip to Auckland is complete without visiting a beach, and Piha is the top recommendation from locals for out-of-town visitors. Travel west from the city, making sure to stop at Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery to enjoy artwork from local artists and stunning views of the countryside through the gallery’s expansive windows. Once you reach the coast, take a stroll along the unique black-sand beach and then hike to the summit of Lion Rock for breathtaking views of the ocean.

Discover more about Pasture and the other World’s Best Restaurants here.