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Get your shopping fix

Britomart

This waterfront precinct is made up of heritage buildings, boutique clothing and shoe stores, and beautifully designed linked public spaces where busy shoppers can meet and linger. It showcases some of New Zealand’s best fashion designers including Trelise Cooper, Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Kathryn Wilson, Juliette Hogan and more. Adjacent to Auckland’s main transport hub, it’s easy to get in and out of.

Parnell and Newmarket

Parnell has a reputation as being among the most stylish suburbs but what sets this district apart is the small art galleries showcasing home-grown artists. Close by is Newmarket, with its revamped Westfield mega-mall – the country’s largest. It covers seven floors, with 2770 car parks (free forthe first two hours if you download the Westfield app) and an alfresco dining terrace called Rooftop on Broadway; home to a medley of upmarket eateries. The H&M store alone covers quarter of a hectare. It’s a shopper’s dream come true.

Karangahape Road, or known by the locals as K’ Road

The iconic strip is home to some of central Auckland's most extensive collections of vintage, retro and second-hand clothing. It is a blend of culture boasting an eclectic mix of homeware, gift and craft shops; books, music and photography. Venture down St Kevins Arcade for treasures; it’s here in the two-level art deco arcade that you’ll find vintage gear, records, books and fabulous food.

Ponsonby Road

Treat yourself to a shopping spree at undoubtedly one of the trendiest places to be, 10 minutes’ drive from central Auckland. You’ll discover boutique beauty, jewellery and fashion stores (many of which house Kiwi designers such as Stolen Girlfriends Club and Deadly Ponies). There are also several home and kitchenware shops. Don’t miss The Open Book for seven rooms of second-hand books in a cosy, homely setting.

Devonport and Takapuna

Over the bridge at Devonport, the vibe is a little slower. There are art galleries; a chocolatier serves handmade sweet treats and the most exquisite stationers sells leather-bound journals. Further along is Takapuna, with a similar relaxed, beachy style. Browse the shops and boutique stores along Hurstmere Road.

Handmade chocolates

Devonport Chocolates

Queen Street

Commercial Bay sets the precedent for Queen Street’s first-rate shopping. As the latest precinct to arrive downtown, it’s packed with 86 retailers (see page 34). Both high street and international designers border lower Queen Street and department stores such as Farmers and Smith & Caughey’s are a delight to peruse. Make-up giants, Mecca and Sephora have prime sites and you’re encouraged to peek into Queens Arcade. Nip through Canterbury Arcade to High Street for quirky-cool shops and Unity Books which boasts beautiful literature.