Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) is a popular travel destination, known for its iconic landmarks and city-living feel. But just to the East of the city, a universe of endless horizons set against charming towns is waiting to be explored. When planning your Auckland East holiday, ensure a remarkable experience and travel in style with a Hertz rental car.
St Heliers
A seaside suburb with a village-like atmosphere, an outing to St Heliers will delight with its picturesque charm and inviting ambience. Discover the best waterfront dining with cafes and restaurants scattered along the seaside. Step into St Heliers Bay Bistro for breakfast, lunch or dinner, seven days a week. Ideal for special occasions or casual dining, the extensive menu ensures something for everyone, and large open windows offer views that look right out onto the water. You’ll get unimpeded views of Rangitoto Island across the sea from St Heliers. Embrace the view with an array of waterfront dining options, a peaceful stroll along the bay or paddle across to the island on a sea kayaking tour. Set off from Waitemata Harbour to watch the sunset on your journey to Rangitoto Island. Upon arrival, there are several walking tracks and trails to explore with fascinating native wildlife in abundance. Admire a sky full of stars as you make the moonlight paddle back to shore.
Howick
On the other side of the Tāmaki River, Howick is known for its history dating back to the 19th century. With shops and cafes in grandiose buildings with stunning architecture, even a stroll through the town centre provides a pleasant experience for visitors. Wander over to the Howick Historical Village to step back in time and walk through the living history museum for a look at early living in Tāmaki Makaurau. Browse the showrooms at the Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery to view a collection of frequently rotating paintings, and in summer and autumn, art exhibitions are held regularly inviting all in the area to take a look at the fine works of local artists. On the water, visitors can soak up tranquillity and bliss at Waipaparoa (Howick Beach). An ideal place for birdwatching, dipping your toes in the water and simply relaxing, immerse yourself in the serenity of East Auckland here.
Mission Bay
In Mission Bay, beauty can be found in everything from the dazzling beach waters to the Trevor Moss Davis Memorial Fountain. The fountain was constructed with Sicilian marble and sits on the waterfront providing a stunning epicentre for visitors and locals to meet and bask in the area's beauty. An outing to Mission Bay beach will delight with golden sands set against the luscious greenery of the gardens at the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park. Aside from the beach, the spectacular dining options make Mission Bay extra special. When shellfish is on the menu, The Seafood Collective takes fish and chips to another level. With freshly caught fish cooked just as you like it, and creations by passionate and skilled chefs, dine here to fully appreciate the variety of excellent seafood that Aotearoa is blessed with. At Oak Barrel Wine House, domestic and international wines are on the menu to suit every palate, along with hand-tossed, authentic woodfired pizzas for a blend of flavours that will have your tastebuds singing.
Parnell
For a truly luxurious experience in East Auckland, Parnell offers everything including boutique designer shopping to delectable desserts. From authentic French pastries and chocolates at VANIYÉ Patisserie to baguettes for lunch at Casse-Croute, emulate a day out in Paris with a walk along the tree-lined streets of Parnell. With charming bookstores, cafes and bars and the Auckland Domain gardens, uncover the opulence of the town from pacing the streets to relaxing with a picnic. The art scene brings the community together with curated galleries and art stores galore. At Black Door Gallery, discover contemporary New Zealand art in the form of unique sculptures, refined paintings and glass creations. Browse the handcrafted works and choose the perfect piece to bring home to reflect your time in the town. At Kiwa Art, traditional Māori art is the focus, with everything from wood carvings to Pounamu to jewellery on offer. Relish your time in Parnell at the Rose Garden. Admire the beauty of the space filled with 5000 rose bushes and get the best views in the city from Judges Bay.
From the seaside town of St Heliers to the French corner of Parnell, there are unique experiences and magical moments to be had in Auckland East. With boutique shops and elevated dining options to delve into, your next luxury holiday awaits, with the best way to traverse the region in a Hertz rental car.
