Not to miss in Auckland

Bakery-café in a big Britomart space. Try the almond croissant with an espresso; also on the 2026 Michelin Bib Gourmand list.

Go early to skip queues

Pretty dining room above K Road with Sky Tower and Myers Park views. Order a cinnamon scroll with your flat white.

Window seats fill by 10am

Roastery in an industrial space, pouring its own beans alongside house-made baked goods and a full brunch menu.

Weekdays are calmer than weekends

New 2026 opening: daytime café serving Copain pastries and eighthirty coffee, turning into a natural wine bar at night.

Pastries sell out; arrive mornings

Contemporary Samoan cooking that earned a Michelin star in New Zealand's first guide. Splurge-worthy tasting-style dinner showing Pacific flavours.

Book several weeks ahead

Long-running Vietnamese favourite in Britomart, known for its shared set menu and a plant-based set alternative.

Book ahead for dinner

Casual Mexican counter famous locally for birria tacos with rich dipping consome. Cheap, filling, and easy for a quick meal.

Order the birria tacos

New Parnell fish-sando spot. Get the tempura fish sandwich, then finish with soft serve topped with fish sauce caramel.

Walk-in friendly at lunch

Volcanic cone with a deep crater and full 360-degree city views. Stay on the paths; the summit is a sacred site.

Sunset, then walk down

Bright pink elevated path through the city centre. Neon glow after dark suits long exposures and city-light shots.

Shoot after dark

Black-sand surf beach beneath the bush-covered Lion Rock. Crashing waves and golden sunset light make dramatic wide shots.

Go at sunset; check surf

Short climb above Devonport for skyline, harbour and island views. Take the ferry from downtown for a scenic approach.

Catch the ferry from downtown

Matt and Barbara Lambert's restaurant cooking precise, produce-led New Zealand dishes; named Cuisine's New Restaurant of the Year 2026.

Book ahead for dinner