Ponsonby

Stretching nearly two kilometres, this vibrant strip plays host to some of Auckland’s best eateries. Visit the famous International Food Court on the corner of Pollen Street for a huge range of affordable and delicious dishes from all over the world (open from 10am), or if you’re in the mood for something a little more up-market, look no further than Ponsonby Central (corner of Richmond Road), a hub of bars, bistros, coffee shops, and even a fresh food market. Restaurants like  MooChowChow (Thai), Prego (Italian), and Orphans Kitchen (up-market bistro-style dining) litter the street for those who can afford something a little nicer. While more casual Ponsonby Road dining highlights include il buco (for gourmet pizza slices), Mexico (for a quesadilla and a margarita) and Renkon (for cheap and simple Japanese).  Hang out at the Street Food Collective, tucked away behind Ponsonby Road for a rotating schedule of some of Auckland’s food trucks and street food vendors.

Ponsonby Road is also well-loved for its vibrant nightlife. Bars like Freeman & Grey, Little Easy, Golden Dawn, Grand Central and The Long Room are open until at least 3am on weekends, and are all great spots to visit for a more relaxed drink or even a bite to eat earlier in the evening. If you’re in town to do a spot of shopping, Ponsonby Road has to be one of your first stops. Because of its usually flush clientele, the shopping options along Ponsonby Road are often a little pricier. Stores like Karen Walker, Sass & Bide, Cybèle and Suprette are home to some of New Zealand’s top fashions.

Ponsonby is generally a very safe area for locals and tourists alike, and because it’s within walking distance of the city as well as being a corridor for various bus routes, it’s a great place to stay while visiting Auckland.