48 hours in Auckland Central with local stylist and writer, Courtney Joe
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH IHG HOTELS AND RESORTS
WORDS BY COURTNEY JOE
Where to stop, stay and play in the city.
As an Auckland local, I know I’m not alone when I say I should venture into the CBD more often. But when I do, I like to make a weekend out of it – an urban getaway of sorts, to sample the city’s eclectic culture. And despite calling Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) home for the past 10 years, a trip into the CBD still feels like a novelty. The familiarity coupled with the thrill of new experiences (and trust me, there’s always something new) can make any local feel like a tourist in their own city. What better way to explore my own backyard, and simultaneously support local, than an inner-city staycation?
One of my non-negotiables when it comes to planning a trip is proximity. If you’re after an off-grid escape, the further away the better. But if you want an immersive, everything-on-your-doorstep type of trip, then you want to be in the thick of it.
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Within walking distance of cafes, boutiques and bars, Hotel Indigo is opening early 2025 with the best Auckland has to offer right on its doorstep. The space will offer a reprieve from the bustle of the city and waterfront views, and mark a modern, welcoming and distinctively Auckland place to base yourself.
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That latter point, ‘distinctively Auckland’, should come as no surprise to those familiar with the Hotel Indigo brand, part of IHG Hotels and Resorts. Known worldwide for reflecting the culture, creativity and character into its guest rooms and public spaces, Hotel Indigo ensures each property tells the unique story of its surrounding neighbourhood. Hotel Indigo Auckland will mark the brand’s first venture into New Zealand.
Browse now, book from early 2025 and then go forth. Auckland’s CBD has no shortage of spots to eat, drink and play.
Fort Greene
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Always the first stop en route to the inner city is Fort Greene on Karangahape Road. It’s home to the best pastries in the city (if not world). I’m aware that’s a huge call, but having recently savoured many a pastry across Europe, I think Kiwi patissiers are among the best in the world. I’m always caught between a sweet or salty moment, so the bakery’s chilli honey and parmesan croissant bun is my go-to. I grab that and a coffee to go, and have a wander down Karangahape Road, which is a vintage-lover’s mecca. I love to pop into the Love James salon for all things occasional and Crushes, a concept store offering vintage and locally sourced home and giftware.
Unity Books
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While I have, in recent years, transitioned to reading on a Kobo, I do love to still treat myself to the occasional hard copy book. And when I do, Unity Books is the first place I visit. I love getting lost in the stacks of books, plus the staff are so wonderfully knowledgeable and enthusiastic about literature. You’ll rarely leave without a well-recommended read. For those who must get into their book ASAP, stop by Rumours for a coffee and find a sunny reading spot in Freyberg Square or Albert Park.
Gilt Brasserie
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One of my favourite inner-city dining spots is Gilt. Inspired by European, all-day brasseries, you can be sure to enjoy a meal at any time of the day, over a quick lunch break or an hours-long dining experience. And don’t be fooled by the slick interiors, the menu is sophisticated, yet classic and approachable. There’s even a whole menu section dedicated to the potato.
For a quick lunch, you can’t go wrong with the minute steak and pomme frites. Make sure you save some room for dessert and order the chocolate-drizzled Paris-Brest. If you’re particularly fond of European cuisine, then keep an eye out for the launch of Hotel Indigo’s in-house French-inspired restaurant, Bistro Saine, opening its doors in 2025.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
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A trip to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is always an inspiring one. The gallery is Aotearoa’s largest art institution and its light-filled space is the perfect backdrop to its major works, from Gottfried Lindauer’s commissions of late 19th and early 20th century Aotearoa to Cezanne, Matisse, Picasso and more.
Check out the Modern Women exhibition showing until late February, offering a collection of works from celebrated Kiwi female artists such as Rita Angus and Frances Hodgkins. Exit via the gift shop for a great selection of books, exhibition merch and New Zealand-made wares. Keep the cultural momentum going with a stroll through Hotel Indigo when you arrive back. Here, you’ll find another unique art collection spread across each of its levels.
Wynn Hamlyn
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When I’m in the mood to shop, I love heading downtown to Commercial Bay. A five-minute walk from Hotel Indigo, the shopping precinct houses a premium curation of the world’s (and Aotearoa’s) best fashion, beauty and dining. For local New Zealand designers, head down the Little Queen Street laneway, where you’ll find the doors of Twenty-Seven Names, Yu Mei and, my favourite, Wynn Hamlyn. I’m obsessed with the brand’s new Resort exclusives – I’ve got my eye on one of the woven beaded totes and its matching keychains for the summer ahead.
Basement Theatre
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I love a night at the theatre, especially where comedy is involved. Basement Theatre is the city’s stage for independent live performances and where many of Aotearoa’s most-loved performers once cut their teeth. With a packed roster of shows and very accessible ticket (and bar) prices, it’s the perfect – not to mention wholesome – late-night activity in the city.
No.7
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There’s something to be said about keeping things simple and Pitt St’s No.7 has that sentiment down pat. With its sleek and minimal interiors, it’s the perfect space to enjoy a drink with friends, a plate of pasta (it does a $30 pasta and wine on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays). If you’re in the mood, kick on for a late-night boogie with tunes spun from the establishment’s most loyal patrons. Try the in-house No.7 pet nat or one of the ever-changing seasonal cocktails, always yum.
To explore Hotel Indigo in Auckland Central and book your stay from early 2025, head here.
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