First Table: Gourmet Dining at Half the Price Want to experience Auckland’s world-class dining scene for less? We highly recommend First Table. It’s a fantastic way to discover top-rated restaurants—including several right here in the Viaduct and CBD—by booking the first table of the night and receiving 50% off the food bill for 2 to 4 people.

Exclusive Guest Perk: Use our link and code TSFG1R to get your first booking credit at a discount! GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST TABLE

Dining Near Princes Wharf

Staying at Princes Wharf puts you at the heart of Auckland’s premier dining district. Whether you’re looking for a world-class meal or a casual bite with a view, you are just steps away from dozens of incredible options. Here are our top "handpicked" recommendations:

Our Top Picks

• Soul Bar & Bistro: A Viaduct icon. Perfect for sunset cocktails and people-watching. Their macaroni and cheese and fresh seafood are legendary.
• Oyster and Chop: Located right on the water’s edge. As the name suggests, this is the place to go for the freshest oysters in the city and premium cuts of steak.
• Botswana Butchery: A sophisticated dining experience overlooking the harbour. Known for its incredible meat selection and extensive wine list.
• AHI: Located in Commercial Bay, this is award-winning New Zealand cuisine at its finest. A must-visit for foodies wanting to taste the best of our local produce.

Explore the Dining Precincts

If you want to wander and explore, these three areas are all within a 5-minute flat walk from your apartment:

• Commercial Bay: Just across the road, this modern precinct features everything from a high-end food hall (Harbour Eats) to flagship restaurants like AHI and Origami. [Explore Commercial Bay Eats]
• The Viaduct Harbour: Home to Auckland’s most famous bars and restaurants. It’s vibrant, busy, and offers front-row seats to the superyachts. [View Viaduct Dining]
• Princes Wharf: You don't even need to leave the wharf! Aside from Botswana Butchery, there are several great spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner right under the building.

💡 Host's Pro-Tip:

Many of these restaurants are very popular, especially on weekends. We highly recommend booking in advance. Check the First Table link on our Experiences page to see if you can snag a 50% discount for an early dinner!

Our Auckland Bucket List: 10 Must-Visit Spots

Auckland is so much more than just a city—it’s a playground of volcanic parks, golden beaches, and emerald islands. Here are our top 10 personal recommendations for your stay.

The Top 10

1. Waiheke Island: Just a 35-minute ferry ride from your doorstep. Famous for world-class wineries, white sand beaches, and olive groves.
2. Devonport Village: Take the 12-minute ferry to this charming historic seaside village. Walk up Mt. Victoria for 360-degree views of the city and harbour.
3. Cornwall Park & One Tree Hill: A massive green oasis in the heart of the city. Perfect for a walk among the sheep and cattle with incredible views from the summit.
4. The Sky Tower: An iconic part of our skyline. Head up for a bird's-eye view of the entire Auckland region (or a bungy jump if you're feeling brave!).
5. Tiritiri Matangi Bird Sanctuary: A predator-free island that is a haven for native New Zealand birds. A must for nature lovers and hikers.
6. Auckland Museum: Located in the beautiful Auckland Domain, this is the best place to experience Māori culture and New Zealand’s history.
7. Maraetai Beach: A local favorite on the Pohutukawa Coast. It features a beautiful wharf and calm swimming waters—perfect for a quintessential Kiwi beach day.
8. Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium: Walk through the famous underwater tunnels to see sharks, rays, and New Zealand’s only colony of Antarctic penguins.
9. Great Barrier Island: For the true adventurer. A rugged, off-the-grid island known for its Dark Sky Sanctuary, surfing, and untouched wilderness.
10. The Viaduct & Princes Wharf: You’re already here! Enjoy the city’s best dining, luxury yachts, and vibrant nightlife right at your doorstep.

Ready to Explore?

Many of these adventures can be booked directly through our partner links to save you time and hassle.

[VIEW & BOOK EXPERIENCES HERE]

💡 Host's Pro-Tip:

If you only have one day, we recommend the Waiheke Island ferry. It leaves from the terminal right next to Princes Wharf and gives you the best "Island Life" experience in the shortest amount of time!

Auckland Nightlife: Our Handpicked Favorites

From sophisticated wine bars to vibrant rooftop breweries, Princes Wharf and the Viaduct offer some of the best nightlife in the country. Everything on this list is within a short, safe walk from your apartment.

Rooftops & Views

• Parasol & Swing: A stylish rooftop bar with incredible views over the Viaduct. Known for its creative cocktails and sunset vibes.
• Dr Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co: A local favorite! Enjoy fresh brewed beer and pizza on the massive deck overlooking the water. It even has indoor bowling lanes.
• Queens Rooftop Bar: Located high above the city, this spot offers a sophisticated atmosphere and stunning 360-degree views of the harbour and skyline.

Sophisticated Sips

• Somm Wine Bar & Bistro: Located right on the wharf, this is the perfect spot for wine lovers. They offer a fantastic selection of local and international pours in a beautiful setting.
• Bellini Bar: Situated inside the Hilton Hotel on the tip of the wharf. It’s elegant, quiet, and serves some of the best cocktails in the city.
• The Nightcar: For something truly unique, head to this underground bar. It’s inspired by luxury train travel and offers a moody, high-end "speakeasy" experience.

Casual Vibes & Live Music

• Andrew & Andrew: A great spot for craft beer and hearty food. It’s casual, friendly, and a perfect place to start your evening.
• Provedor: If you’re looking for music and a lively crowd, Provedor is a Viaduct staple. It’s known for its energetic atmosphere and great playlist.
• Off the Hook Bar & Eatery: A relaxed waterfront spot perfect for a cold drink and a casual bite while watching the boats go by.

💡 Host's Pro-Tip:

Auckland’s waterfront is very safe and beautiful at night, but it does get busy! If you are planning to visit Dr Rudi’s or Parasol & Swing on a Friday or Saturday night, we recommend heading there a little earlier to secure a spot with the best view.

Where to Shop in Auckland

From high-end international labels to massive retail hubs, Auckland offers the best shopping in New Zealand. Whether you are looking for a new outfit or a unique gift to take home, here are the top spots to visit.

City Style: Steps from Your Door

• Commercial Bay: Located just across the road from Princes Wharf, this is Auckland’s newest and most sophisticated shopping destination. You’ll find high-end fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands (like Dior, Hugo Boss, and Kate Spade) alongside a world-class food hall. It’s perfect for a rainy day as it is fully undercover.

The Fashion District

• Westfield Newmarket: A short 10-minute train or taxi ride from the CBD. This is the fashion capital of Auckland, featuring David Jones and a massive array of designer stores. Don't miss the rooftop dining precinct for a coffee break with a view.

The Mega-Malls

• Sylvia Park: The largest shopping mall in New Zealand. It has everything from high-street favorites like H&M and Zara to department stores and a cinema complex.
  • How to get there: You can take a direct train from Britomart Station (right across the road from you) which stops directly at the mall.
• Westfield St Lukes: A large, classic suburban mall featuring all the major New Zealand retailers. It’s a great one-stop shop for fashion, electronics, and essentials.

💡 Host's Pro-Tip:

If you are looking for a more "boutique" or local feel, we also recommend taking the 12-minute ferry to Devonport Village or a quick bus to Ponsonby Road. Both offer unique New Zealand-made goods and local art that you won't find in the larger malls!