What is it like to live in Auckland, you may ask? Before diving in, let’s take a couple step back.
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, occupied by close to 1.7 million people. It is the gateway to Northland and is full of unexpected surprises.
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Auckland, there is no place quite like it. Though not originally from the City of Sails, having lived here for almost a decade, I can confidently say it’s a pretty great place. Despite the occasional criticism, it’s full of opportunities and boasts easy access to breathtaking beaches and scenic hikes. It’s a hub of adventure and exploration, making it an ideal base for travel enthusiasts.
SOCIAL
The social aspects to Auckland are pretty wide-spread. From nights out on the town to morning run clubs, we really have it all.
Websites like Heart of the City and Discover Auckland can answer what it is like to live in Auckland as it keeps you updated on the latest city events and activities. These platforms are great resources for keeping your finger on the pulse of Aucklands social life.
In my thirties, big nights out are less frequent, but Auckland still boasts plenty of great bars and dining options. If you’re a foodie looking to explore Aucklands culinary scene without breaking the bank, First Table is a fantastic resource. This website offers discounted dining experiences at some of the city’s best restaurants, allowing you to indulge in delicious meals without straining the budget.
If you’re new to the area and eager to meet like-minded individuals, Meet Up can be incredibly useful for finding and connecting with others who share your interests. I’ve personally tried this and found some great people to hang out with in my initial months of moving to the big smoke.
Living in Auckland means that you have a choice of being a part of a vibrant social scene. With numerous platforms where it’s easy to stay connected and on the pulse of events, bars, dining, it makes for a unique and enjoyable place to call home.
ACCESS TO BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
“What is it like to live in Auckland?” When considering this, the first thing that springs to mind is access to amazing beaches. As mentioned in my blog post 10 Things to Expect When Visiting Auckland, Auckland boasts a plethora of beautiful coastal spots.
The East Coast and North Shore beaches are well known for being able to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports. The beaches on the North Shore from the city are particularly easy to get to and on a sunny day you’ll find they are quite popular. There are so many to choose from, from Milford Beach to Orewa, or if you feel like it, venture further. You really can’t go wrong.
The West Coast is a little different. This part of Auckland is renowned for its striking black sand beaches but it can also be quite rough. It’s a coastline that is perfect for surfing and hiking, with plenty of beaches and trails to choose from. Swimming is to be done with caution.
HIKES GALORE
Speaking of hikes, Auckland is surprisingly rich in its array of walks. From day to overnight there’s plenty to choose from, all which make you feel very far from a city.
I have favourites all over the country but when in Auckland I like to frequent the West Coast. To get you started, Mercer Bay Loop is an easy track with incredible views of the coastline. It will take you a little over 30 minutes to complete the loop trail. Omanawanui, while a good hike like Mercer Bay, adds complexity with extensive stair sections along the trail. There are also some great ones closer to the city, like Mount Eden and along the waterfront.
For hiking, it really does depend on where you’re staying and how far you want to travel. If you want to explore more options, check out my favourite app, AllTrails.
COST OF LIVING
One of the only downsides of living in Auckland is the is the cost of living. Like many major cities around the world, Auckland can be expensive, particularly when it comes to rent and everyday expenses. Like me in my early 20’s, people often come here for the career opportunities that this city can provide. Between being able to make your way, and the potential to get paid fairly well for it, living in a city is sometimes considered a good trade off. And even if this isn’ the case, the benefits of living in Auckland can definitely outweigh the financial challenges. It just depends on your goals and your ideal way of living.
EASY FOR TRAVEL
If you’re craving a weekend at the beach, a road trip to the countryside or even an international getaway, Auckland is the perfect place to travel from as one of the great things about living in this city is its location. Serving as an excellent starting point for exploring both New Zealand and beyond, Auckland acts as a gateway to various North Island destinations and houses the country’s largest international airport.
In particular it acts as the entry point to Northland, providing convenient access to stunning beaches and forests. Coromandel and Taupo are a bit further but within reach via a scenic drive, making this city the perfect starting point for exploring some of the North Island’s incredible locations. And as mentioned earlier, with an airport close by, it’s easy to explore other international destinations, too.
So, what is it like to live in Auckland? It’s a city that offers a dynamic experience. With many social opportunities, natural beauty, and convenient access to both urban amenities and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach lover, a hiking enthusiast, or a traveler at heart, Auckland has something to offer everyone.