14 Gorgeous Airbnbs in Auckland

Last updated on June 8, 2023

Best Airbnbs in Auckland

Auckland is gorgeously placed on the coast with surfing beaches, islands, wineries, rainforest and hot springs all within miles of the centre. It’s often ranked as offering among the highest quality of life in the world, and is filled with beautiful neighbourhoods, ranging from hipster enclaves to surfing hubs.

Airbnb and its alternatives give you the chance to experience that lifestyle, staying in a local’s home. Here’s our pick of the best Airbnbs in Auckland, including Auckland vacation homes available through other sites like Booking.com.

We went to Auckland as part of our epic North Island road trip itinerary.


Where to stay in an Airbnb in Auckland

Auckland CBD

If you’re planning on doing lots of sightseeing then staying in Auckland CBD is your best bet. There are lots of high rises with a variety of Airbnb apartments, plus some seaview options by the harbour.

Ponsonby

Ponsonby is Auckland’s prime hipster area, centered around Ponsonby Road, which has plenty of cafes, restaurants and stylish boutiques. There are plenty of Airbnb houses and apartments both in Ponsonby and the surrounding area where you can walk to all the food trucks, craft beer bars and more.

Parnell and Newmarket

Parnell is an upscale, quaint area of the city with lots of fancy boutiques and restaurants. It’s right next to Newmarket, which is a trendy, fashion district. Both have beautiful Airbnbs housed in characterful buildings.

St Marys And Herne Bay

St Mary’s Bay and Herne Bay are suburbs of the city known for their gorgeous views from Edwardian homes. They’re close to the CBD while also being near lots of pretty little coves and beaches.

Titirangi

Titirangi is a residential area/village on the edge of Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, making it a good place to stay to enjoy the native rainforest and coastline. It’s about 20 mins from Auckland CBD.

Piha

If you’re looking for surf, Piha is the place to go. It’s a land of beaches, rugged coastline and tree-covered valleys, and some particularly stylish and quirky places to stay. Do bear in mind it’s quite far outside the city centre (45 mins drive).

The Best Airbnbs in Auckland

Best Airbnbs in Auckland CBD and the Harbour

Sub-Penthouse Apartment on Panoramic Wharf

This stunning sub-penthouse apartment has a sleek modern design with floor-to-celing windows and sweeping sea views across the marina. The large, sunny patio has plenty of seating and an idyllic swing seat, to drink in the ocean views. It’s small, but the views add space, and it’s in easy walking distance to city centre attractions.

What the guests say: “The apartment was everything we needed, great views over the marina, watching the boats, the swing seat was a lovely plus. The apartment is walking distance to the skytower and the hop on hop off bus stop, which was great. Close to the bars and restaurants but not too close to hear any noise at night. I would highly recommend staying here again.”

Online listing: Sub-Penthouse Apartment on Panoramic Wharf

Price: From $ per night

Sleeps: 4 people (one bed)


Deluxe Heritage Apartment

This beautifully designed apartment is housed in a landmark building that was once Auckland’s most loved department store. Close to shops and restaurants around the Commercial Bay, the newly renovated apartment has a modern design with bright pops of colour from stylish interiors. There’s a full kitchen with a Nespresso machine, French Press and a variety of coffee pods, along with a comfortable king-sized bed.

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What the guests say: “Natalie’s apartment is beautiful and stylish. Loved all the colours through the apartment. Location is perfect – very central. We loved our stay and would definitely recommend to others.”

Online listing: Deluxe Heritage Apartment

Price: From $170 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Downtown Boho Sanctuary

This light-filled, boho-inspired downtown studio apartment is a small but inviting space with hardwood floors, quirky prints and stylish furniture. A white tiled bathroom with both a bath and shower, well equipped kitchenette and pretty pastel shade create a calm sanctuary amid the downtown.

What the guests say: ” The profile of the property attracted me to this place at first, and I was not disappointed, it is exactly as advertised. I had a great 3 night stay here, it is a perfect location to explore the CBD. Being able to use the rooftop pool and gym were an added bonus, and the recommendations provided by Zeenie and Sarah made it easier to enjoy my stay.”

AirBnB listing: Downtown Boho Sanctuary

Price: From $167 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Jungle Apartment

This loft apartment has taken advantage of its 3.6m high ceilings to maximise the living space and create a mezzanine for the bedroom. Inspired by the sub-tropical rainforest of West Coast Auckland, the apartment has a tropical theme with lots of plants throughout. As well as the mezzanine bedroom, there’s also a sofa bed in the living area.

What the guests say: “We’ve spent 2 nights at this beautiful apartment right in the city center of Auckland. You step outside the door and are surrounded by the vivid vibe the city has to offer – bars, restaurants, shopping opportunities. Due to all the plants in the apartment, it felt like a small oasis and was perfect to deal with our jet lag. We highly recommend staying here.

AirBnB listing: Jungle Apartment

Price: From $132 per night

Sleeps: 3 people (two beds)


Luxury Apartment


Beautiful city views, floor-to-ceiling book shelves, and plush chartreuse sofas are the hallmarks of this luxury apartment. A relaxing, king sized sleigh bed, marble tiles, double sinks in the bathroom and a deep bathtub to sink into add luxe touches as good as any boutique hotel.

What the guests say: “The location of this lovely apartment was fantastic, right in the centre of downtown Auckland, very near to the Skybus stop (handy for airport) and 5 mins from ferry terminals. The apartment was super stylish, with quirky antique furniture and lots of books and magazines. I particularly liked the bathroom which was very spacious and stylish. I would recommend this apartment and would definitely stay here again.”

Online listing: Luxury Apartment

Price: From $174 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Best Airbnbs in Ponsonby

Ponsonby Villa

This two-bedroom flat is tucked into the mid-level of a classic early 1900’s style villa in Ponsonby. The flat has two balconies, with one fully surrounded by lush greenery, so you can be immersed in nature within the city. The deck looks over to the Sky Tower. Impeccably furnished in neutral shades with interesting wall art, the flat is an oasis of calm and tranquility.

What the guests say: “An extremely stylish place in a perfect location. It is very well equipped and all is of a high standard and scrupulously clean. It also has an excellent large shower and very comfortable large beds with good quality bedding. Thank you to Robyne and her team.”

Online listing: Ponsonby Villa

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Price: From $199 per night

Sleeps: 4 people (two beds)


Storybook Studio Cottage

This quaint little studio cottage packs plenty of charm into a little space. The pretty blue wooden house has its own private deck with chairs to relax and take in the views of the surrounding garden and city skyline.

Tea, coffee and other supplies are available in the fully equipped kitchen. And it’s a stone’s throw from neighbourhood parks and town centre.

What the guests say: “Fab cottage for exploring Auckland and great base for starting or finishing a NZ holiday. Location great near Ponsonby and v quick Uber or 105 bus into town. Has everything you need and the chairs and table outside are so nice for when it’s lovely out.”

Online listing: Storybook Studio Cottage

Price: From $126 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)


Best Airbnbs in Parnell

Historic Parnell Retreat

This charming two-storey cottage, full of historic character, has served as an inspiring haven for many creatives from across the word. It’s close to all the landmarks of Parnell, including Parnell Village, Judges Bay, Auckland Domain and Auckland Gallery. Little luxuries and stylish decor make for a comfy stay.

What the guests say: “Jillian’s place is a comfortable, stylish and tasteful property conveniently situated a short distance from the centre of Auckland. There is also a small garden where we enjoyed a drink in the evening sun. We were made very welcome with lots of unexpected foodie treats to try, fluffy towels and gorgeous cosmetics in the bathroom. Wish we’d stayed longer.”

Airbnb listing: Historic Parnell Retreat

Price: From $134 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Best Airbnbs in Titirangi

Blackwood Titirangi

The uber stylish Blackwood Guesthouse is located in the lush suburb of Titirangi, surrounded by verdant forest. The local village is a few minutes’ walk away with great cafes and bars. The black, wooden-clad house has a sleek interior with exposed beams, a luxurious marble bathroom, and an immersive outdoor bath surrounded by idyllic rainforest. It’s an ideal city retreat.

What the guests say: “Lovely place to stay in an amazing bush setting, super close to the Titirangi township. We really enjoyed the clean, quiet space and made the most of the fantastic eateries that are so close and easy to get to using an Uber. The bush walk at this house is really, really well done. This is a place that we’d love to stay at again in the future.”

AirBnB listing: Blackwood Titirangi

Price: From $85 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (two beds)

Bush Bach

This stylish cottage in the Waitakere Range is a peaceful retreat for those looking for a nature stay, while still being relatively close (30 mins) to the CBD. Immersed in dense bush land, this is an idyllic and very private space, with a lush wraparound deck for relaxing. Pillow-top mattresses, coffee pods and a luxurious rain shower add luxury.

What the guests say: “A peaceful slice of paradise. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend to all for a refreshing break away. Everything has been provided to ensure your stay is hassle free, clean and luxurious. The Waitakeres are a beautiful backdrop with well maintained walking tracks, and a quaint village nearby offers an excellent selection of restaurant and café options. Stay here and i promise you’ll leave feeling refreshed.”

AirBnB listing: Bush Bach

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Price: From $118 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Best Airbnbs in St Marys And Herne Bay

Harbour Views at St Mary’s Bay

This bright and airy apartment has an open plan living and dining area that opens out onto a stylish, private balcony with gorgeous views of the harbour at St Mary’s Bay. Mid-century modern furniture, handcrafted wooden pieces, houseplants, and leafy views from French windows add to the charm.

What the guests say: “An absolutely lovely place. Cosy, clean and had everything you could need. The area is great. Lots of places to eat, get coffee and shop. Our host took very good care of us with fast and excellent communications. Would definitely stay there again.”

AirBnB listing: Harbour Views at St Mary’s Bay

Price: From $206 per night

Sleeps: 4 people (two beds)

Herne Bay Garden Studio

This garden studio is perfectly located for both Herne Bay and Ponsonby. It’s a small space, but has all you need for a comfy stay, including a kitchenette, double bed, shower and desk. Trendy cafes, restaurants and bars are within walking distance.

What the guests say: “Anna’s garden studio makes for a perfect stay for a trip to Auckland. Anna was hugely accommodating, and the studio was immaculate. Everything was very stylish and new. The location is great, with lots of trendy bars and restaurants nearby. It is also great for getting into central Auckland. We loved our stay here! Thanks!”

AirBnB listing: Herne Bay Garden Studio

Price: From $120 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

Best Airbnbs in Piha

Tanekaha Cottage

Another ‘destination bath’ in the Piha region! Close to the beautiful beaches of Piha and Karekare, this cute cottage makes for a wonderful retreat. The interiors are stylishly designed with lots of perks, including French press coffee, luxury toiletries, and expansive views of the bush. But the highlight is undoubtedly that picture-perfect pink clawfoot bathtub that will be a magnetic for all Instagrammers.

What the guests say: “I absolutely loved the cottage! Set amongst the bush canopy with its thoughtful touches (fresh flowers and plants) and beautiful styling. At night the outdoor bath was divine with a glass of wine in the rain, listening to the ruru. All said this place was just what I was looking for as a writing retreat.”

AirBnB listing: Tanekaha Cottage

Price: From $126 per night

Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)

More Airbnbs in and around Auckland

Tropical Garden Paradise

This large house, with three bedrooms and plenty of open-plan living space, has a great outdoor living area complete with tropical plants, a barbecue grill, luxurious hot tub and a trampoline. Original pieces of art and eye-catching mid century modern furniture make for a stylish space. It’s in Pt Chevalier, a quiet, safe suburb close to the beach and Coyle Park, which has ocean views.

What the guests say: “Wonderful family home with all the amenities you need. Excellent back yard and decking for a barbeque and a heater on those chilly nights. Close to the beach and only 10 mins from city. And a spa if you don’t want to go to the beach. Host is friendly and had great communication. We loved it. You will too.”

AirBnB listing: Tropical Garden Paradise

Price: From $340 per night

Sleeps: 6 people (four beds)

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All photos courtesy of Airbnb and hosts.

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