Shop the city: Auckland

Home to wild ranges, volcanoes and black sand beaches, Auckland, or Tāmaki Makaurau in Māori, is renowned for its natural wonders and temperate climate. But the city’s cultural landscape is just as impressive, with its significant Pacific Island and Asian populations influencing everything from its cuisine to its style. Whether your shopping scene is more suburban streets, luxury department stores or bustling outdoor markets, New Zealand’s largest metropolis delivers a wide selection, with plenty of personality to boot. 

1. Commercial Bay  

A sparkling retail, office and food hub overlooking Waitematā Harbour, Commercial Bay is located in a historically significant precinct that was once the centre of Auckland’s transport, trade and commerce. Now a one-stop shopping centre on Queen Street featuring more than 100 fashion, beauty and dining locations across three levels, the stunning complex has a variety of shops for everyone – from global flagships to homegrown brands and beautiful homewares to spa treatments. It’s completed by a sprawling dining hall offering local flavours, gourmet burgers and international delights, all served with enviable waterfront views. For more food and drink options, head over to the nearby Vulcan Lane, a quaint laneway home to plenty of bars and pubs.

2. Devonport

For a more leisurely shopping experience , Auckland’s North Shore is the place to go. A brisk ferry ride from the city’s central business district will take you to the charming seaside village of Devonport. Here, the streets are lined with pretty Victorian and Edwardian buildings housing numerous boutiques, art galleries and cafés. Cosi Fan Tutte offers whimsical homeware and fashion, while Miller Road Fragrances is the destination for beautiful handcrafted perfumes.

A trip here isn’t complete without a stop at Devonport Chocolates , whose handmade sweets featuring flavours like feijoa and honey make perfect gifts or a cheeky treat for yourself.

3. Ponsonby

A vibrant, leafy suburb stacked with designer boutiques, independent shops, and hip bars and eateries, Ponsonby is inner-city living done right. Meander down Ponsonby Road, where glimpses of the city’s Sky Tower are never far from sight. Everyday Needs sells minimal Japanese-inspired homeware alongside New Zealand-crafted goods, while The Open Book is a cosy second-hand bookshop and café housed in one of the area’s winsome villas, and Tatty’s Designer Recycle stocks quality pre-loved designer clothing, shoes and accessories.

4. Parnell

With its Victorian villas and industrial warehouse feel, ample green spaces and cultural venues, affluent Parnell is a study of contrasts and a must-visit for the discerning shopper. Whether you’re after diamonds, Kiwi-made gifts or designer threads, you’ll find it here. Check out Faradays , a massive luxury department store in one of the area’s heritage-listed buildings, with an in-house bar. If you’re looking for a souvenir shop with unique gifts crafted by Kiwis, The Fantail House is the place to go. Meanwhile, Masala Bazaar brings a touch of South Asia to the antipodean with its range, which includes ethical fashion, handcrafted jewellery, home decor and art.

5. Karangahape Road

Karangahape Road, or “K Road” as it’s affectionately known, is so legendary it inspired its own perfume. The beloved strip and former red-light district is arguably the beating heart of the city, home to many of Auckland’s artists and fashionistas, as well as funky thrift shops, bookstores, boutiques and hip restaurants. Check out Crushes for handmade fashion accessories, home decor and carefully curated vintage threads; Flying Out for all things vinyl; and The Green Dolphin Bookshop for an eclectic selection of second-hand books.

6. Otara Markets

Not a weekend goes by without an outdoor market happening somewhere in the city, but for an unmissable local experience, South Auckland’s Otara Flea Markets is where it’s at. Held every Saturday, the bustling market showcases the city’s diversity with stall upon stall of artisanal delicacies and baked goods, as well as arts and crafts, new and used clothing, and more – all offered at bargain prices. With live music and other performances adding to the bustling atmosphere, you’re guaranteed to leave with your bags full of unique treasures and your soul and belly well and truly fed.

7. Shop Kiwi labels

New Zealand’s distance from the rest of the world has resulted in a distinct fashion aesthetic. Subversive fits? Check. Feminine silhouettes meshed with hunting-inspired garb? Check. As well as more established names like Karen Walker , it’s worth scoping out new generation labels to get a sense of the current culture. Some notable labels include Yu Mei , designer Jessie Wong’s leather goods label focused on premium materials such as South Island deer nappa, and Youknow , a fresh streetwear brand specialising in graphic tees and hoodies, which credits its success to its community supporters.