Twenty-Four Hours in Auckland

Exploring New Zealand's largest city in one day.

Thanks to a cancelled flight, I found myself with an unexpected day in Auckland, New Zealand. What a delightful surprise it turned out to be! Often overlooked in favor of all the many natural wonders New Zealand has to offer, Auckland absolutely deserves at least one day on your next trip to this beautiful country.

Auckland is a lively, creative city with a youthful spirit. There are so many day trips and adventures on the outskirts of the city, but this city guide is focused on the city center, or the CBD. It’s a mecca for food, shopping, and arts— there’s so much you can do with a day here!

9 a.m. Start the day at Remedy Coffee. It’s a cozy coffee shop with lots of plants and college-town feel; but it’s the best of both worlds, as they serve top-notch coffee. Like so many cafes in New Zealand, they also have an excellent food menu. Order a coffee and some breakfast, and snag one of the seats at the front window. If the weather if favorable, they will have the window open, an…