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Shopping in Auckland

Auckland has an ever-increasing reputation for being an excellent shopping destination, with a vibrant homegrown fashion industry and retailers stocking all the latest international designer labels. The Kiwi fashion industry is at the cutting edge, taking (as the food industry once did) influences from Europe, Polynesia and the Pacific Rim and then, through the process of fusion, coming up with a unique style.

Key areas

Good fashion outlets are mainly located in the city centre, notably the High Street. Local names include Karen Walker, Marla Brajkovic, Workshop and World. Don't miss Fabric (5 High Street) which sells quality brands like Citizens of Humanity. For jewellery, Fingers (2 Kitchener Street) stocks creations from dozens of top native designers, while Pauanesia (35 High Street) is a celebration of Polynesian handcrafted items and gifts.

Another key area is Ponsonby Road. One of the hippest streets in New Zealand, it's home to one-off and funcky boutiques.

Markets

Auckland has a wide selection of markets to choose from.

For fresh seasonal produce and food, head to Parnell Farmers Market (545 Parnell Road), City Farmers' Market (Britomart), Oratia Farmers' Market (99 Parrs Cross Road), and Grey Lynn Farmers' Market (510 Richmond Road).

For bric-a-brac and colourful crafts, Otara Flea Market (Newbury Street) and Takapuna Beach Night Market are excellent choices.

For an eclectic range of vintage, retro, and fashion, Ponsonby Road Market and Aotea Square Markets are your best bet.

Shopping centres

There are a few shopping centres in and around the city: Sylvia Park (Mt Wellington Highway) and Botany Town Centre (Chapel Road), as well as five Westfield malls dotted across the city.

Opening hours

Shops are usually open on weekdays from 0900-1700, with late-night shopping on Friday until 2100 in some parts of central Auckland, such as Queen Street. In these areas, and some of the larger suburban shopping malls, you can shop on Saturday 0900-1700 and Sunday from about 1000 until 1600.

Souvenirs

For souvenirs and gifts a fine option is Maori and Polynesian traditional crafts and items made from pounamu (greenstone), surf wear or outdoor wear, a kauri wood carving or All Blacks memorabilia.

Tax information

Sales tax is 15%. Provided receipts are kept, visitors can claim a tax refund at the airport or through the local New Zealand high commission or embassy upon return.

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Featured Hotels

The Langham

Oozing classic style, the Langham is one of Auckland's top hotels and offers all the creature comforts that go with the luxury tag, including a spa and fine dining options. Rooms are elegantly furnished and spacious, and service is meticulously attentive. Ideally situated in the city centre, the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Custom Street, near the waterfront.

Princeton Apartments

Centrally located, within five minutes’ walk to Queen Street restaurants, shops, and the Sky Tower, Princeton Apartments offer simple and affordable rooms for travellers on a budget. Apartments can accommodate 1 to 4 people and include a shared kitchen and bathroom.

ibis Budget Auckland Airport

Located just metres away from the airport, ibis Budget offers 198 rooms designed for both families and individual travellers. Rooms come with the bare necessities: beds, television and an en-suite bathroom; Wi-Fi is extra. The hotel is within walking distance to nearby shops, cafes and restaurants.

Peace & Plenty Inn

Without exaggeration this is one of the finest B&Bs in the entire country with sumptuous restored kauri-timber floors that feel like silk beneath bare feet leading to exquisite en-suite rooms filled with fresh flowers antique furniture and sherry or port decanters. There is a delightful verandah for breakfast (weather permitting) and the meal itself is an event of major proportions with large healthy and hearty portions.

Kiwi International Hotel

This modest but decent hotel is located in the middle of the city and is only a 25-minute drive from the airport. Rooms are functional and offer en suite facilities; some budget rooms with shared bathrooms are available. Amenities include a bar, a restaurant and laundry services, as well as 24-hour reception and off-street parking. It's a little shabby and age-worn in places, but is overall a good-value place with a friendly reputation, and in a handy location.

Jucy Snooze Hotel

This oddly-named but friendly budget hotel features bright, simple rooms with flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms; there are also cheaper, more basic, hostel-style rooms. As well as an on-site coffee shop, the hotel offers a lounge and shared kitchen facilities. The hotel is a short walk from the waterfront, with its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

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