Auckland

How to you start off an epic Honeymoon? How about a week in Auckland. I had never been to New Zealand, and admittedly, knew close to nothing about the culinary delights that awaited us during our adventure in Auckland.

How did I get started? Our inspo, a 36 Hours in Auckland article by the New York Times. I used this as a reference guide before I booked our hotel and it really helped me earmark a few neighborhoods to check out.

Where to Stay: Hotel DeBrett, as recommended by the article above. Bonus it has an amazing cheese shop right next door

Neighborhoods: Our favorite was Ponsonby, check out Ponsonby Central for a market stall experience too.

Food:

• Scarecrow - favorite breakfast and coffee shop. It also has adorable (and edible) souvenirs and handmade cards.

• Cocoro - Japanese food with delicious Sashimi

• Clooney - Was an epic dining experience, but has now closed :(

• The French Cafe - For a tasting menu experience

• Amano - excellent Italian food in an adorable neighborhood

Beer:

• Brothers Beer - Delicious craft beer in a low-key setting, think couches, board games, and casual bites.

Day Trip:

• Waiheke Island - adorable vineyards, breweries, and a black sand beach! A short ferry ride from Auckland and a great day trip. Highly recommend this! Tantalus (winery) & Alibi (Brewery) was one of our favorites. Also, Wild on Waiheke, because archery and wine should always go hand in hand.

Walks/Sites:

• Coast to Coast Walkway

• Mt Eden - a great hike to a volcano crater with epic views of the city. Bonus round - stop at Galbraith’s Ale House after your walk for delicious Fish and Chips.