Top shopping spots in Central Auckland

1. 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.

The super slick Commercial Bay shopping precinct opened mid-2020. Home to more than 40 bars and restaurants as well as over 60 designer boutiques such as Kate Spade and Ingrid Starnes, if you have cash to splash, head here.

2. 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 recently revamped Westfield mega-mall – the country’s largest. It covers seven floors, with 2770 car parks (free for the 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.

3. Karangahape Rd (known locally as K'Road)

The iconic strip is home to some of the city’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.

4. 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 including Stolen Girlfriends Club, Lonely lingerie and Deadly Ponies). There are also several upmarket home and kitchenware shops and bookstores worthy of getting lost in for hours.

5. 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 Rd.

CHECK OUT THE FOUR-STOREY FLAGSHIP H&M STORE THAT OPENED IN AUCKLAND’S CBD IN SEPTEMBER 2018.

6. 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 over 100 retailers. Both high street and international designers border lower Queen St and department stores such as Farmers and Smith & Caughey’s are a delight to peruse. Make-up giants, Mecca and Sephora line the pavement and you’re encouraged to peek into Queens Arcade. Nip through Canterbury Arcade to High St for quirky-cool shops and Unity Books which boasts beautiful literature.