Auckland Airbnb Gems: 16 Incredible Places to Stay

written by local expert Jane Elmets

Jane always knew she wasn't destined for a desk job... She has travelled all over the world and is passionate about noodles, sloths and her hiking boots! When she isn't busy adventuring around the world, you can find her reviewing travel gear and dishing out travel tips to all the places she's visited.

Are you looking for the best Auckland Airbnb? Whether you’re visiting the city to see the sights, explore the surrounding natural beauty, or immerse yourself in the local arts and culture, you’ll need a good place to stay to really turn your trip into an unforgettable experience.

If you’re traveling New Zealand, you won’t want to skip out on going to Auckland. This capital city is a hub of urban culture, with great nightlife and fine dining. If you love food and local markets, Auckland will delight you! 

Not only that, it’s also super close to so many incredible nature experiences that you can book during your visit. See the dolphins and whales with the Auckland whale safari, or head to one of the many islands just off the shore, each with its own secrets waiting to be discovered such as secluded natural hot springs, wine tasting and vineyard tours. 

Auckland Airbnb stays are among the best in New Zealand, and today we’ve rounded up our hand-picked favourites for you to read through and inspire your trip. 

16 Amazing Auckland Airbnbs

Check out these 16 amazing Airbnbs in Auckland for a one of a kind stay.

Chic Apartment in Central Auckland

Chic Apartment in Central Auckland
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Queen St, City Centre

Superhost: No

Price: $

This minimalist little apartment is a peaceful oasis in the middle of Auckland’s busy city. It has a welcoming queen bed which you can flop onto after a long day of shopping in Britomart or wandering along the wharfside. Connected to the cosy bedroom is an ensuite bathroom with a walk in shower and modern, space age lighting that makes you feel like you’re in a Star Trek film. 

The living, dining and kitchen space is cleverly arranged in one room. You have a sofa and faux cowhide rug at one end for maxing and relaxing, a cute Swedish style dining table in the centre for your morning coffee, and a cute kitchenette at the other end with a fridge, stove, oven, a kettle and coffee maker. It even has a dishwasher so you can spend more time out in the city and less time doing housework while you visit. 

Why We Love It: Stylish apartment close to everything.

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High Ceiling Retro Apartment Downtown

High Ceiling Retro Apartment Downtown
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Britomart 

Superhost: No

Price: $

Staying in this industrial-feel Auckland Airbnb is a lot like stepping into the 1970s. You’re greeted by a mustard yellow sofa the minute you step inside, and funky bamboo lights hang from above. 

Staying here is a dream for the downtown explorer, as you’re literally in the heart of the city and able to walk to all the best places in the CBD. The apartment complex also boasts a pool and a gym so you can take a dip after a hot day of living it up in the city. 

You’ve got everything you need in the kitchen to make yourself a meal, though you might not want to with all the local cafes and restaurants on your doorstep. 

In the bedroom you’ll find a metal frame queen bed and the sofa in the living room can become a super king size bed as well on request. You’ve got a TVm but you’ll hardly have time for watching with all the myriad of things going on in Auckland! 

Why We Love It: Funky retro place with a great location.

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Character Pad A Stone’s Throw From The Viaduct

Character Pad A Stone’s Throw From The Viaduct
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1.5B)

Location: City Centre Near Skytower

Superhost: yes

Price: $

This cozy little treasure of an apartment is a total treat in the centre of Auckland. It’s open plan, with a sliding door connecting the bedroom and the living area. 

The king-size bed is the star feature of this apartment, with a beautiful bamboo headboard, a bedside plant, and plush pillows and bedding. In the living room is a comfy Scandinavian couch and chair, and there’s even a cute little office desk for if you’re traveling for business. 

You’ll find the kitchenette is fully equipped with the basics for cooking food, it’s a small but a well arranged space. The bathroom has a tub and a shower as well as a big mirror over the sink so you can get yourself ready for a night out on the town. 

You also have full access to a rooftop pool, gym, and sauna as this building shares facilities with a hotel. Plus, it’s walking distance to just about everything! 

Why We Love It: Apartment with its original features in the center of the city.

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Stujio, A Mind Retreat

Stujio, A Mind Retreat
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: City Centre

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

This Airbnb in Central Auckland is a conceptual space which melds modern Japanese design with the idea of a peaceful retreat. 

Filled with indoor plants, painted white, and thoughtfully decorated with simple, statement furniture pieces, this place will instantly put you in a “zen” state of mind as soon as you walk in the door. 

The bedroom and living room share one space, with a queen bed on one end, and a TV and bamboo chairs at the other – with plenty of plants all around! The big windows let in lots of natural light, which makes the whole space bright and peaceful. The kitchen contains all the usual amenities plus a Nespresso machine – and you can head upstairs to make use of a rooftop pool and hot tub. 

With a spacious bathtub and heated towel rack, the bathroom is an extension of the relaxing vibe that the whole place is infused with. 

Why We Love It: Well styled place filled with plants.

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Freestanding Cosy Studio

Freestanding Cosy Studio Quick Info
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Grey Lynn

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

This freestanding little white studio is situated in Grey Lynn, which is a suburb just outside of the city centre. Perfect if you’re looking to be a bit closer to the beach, this pad provides a little more of a laid-back experience of Auckland. You’ll have easy access to restaurants, bars and cafes as well as transport links. 

This sweet little studio contains a comfy queen bed with all the trimmings – memory foam, great linen, and feather pillows. The connecting bathroom is modern and deluxe, with a shower and mini sink. Best of all, you have your own private deck for soaking up the sun before heading off to the city or the beach. Shops are walking distance away, and even the city centre is only 25 minutes on foot. 

This Airbnb is not set up for self-catering but you can do breakfasts if you just want toast and tea, and there are many promising cafes all around the area. 

Why We Love It: Cosy and private getaway away from city noise.

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Garden Studio Close To City Centre

Garden Studio Close To City Centre
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Grey Lynn

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

This studio is a hidden gem, tucked away in a leafy paradise of the host’s back yard. You’ll feel completely secluded within the native bush, and yet you can get out and be in the humming city within a matter of minutes. 

The studio has a spacious, light filled main room which has a queen bed, and a mini sofa, rug, and table and chairs. The style of the decor is simple, tasteful and has a summer holiday vibe so relaxing you’ll almost forget to go out and explore Auckland. The connected bathroom has a big walk in shower, as well as two mirrors and everything else you’d expect. 

You have your own private deck with this studio as well, with two chairs perfect for reading a book in the afternoon, or sharing a glass of wine in the evening. 

The only thing to note about staying here is that there are no kitchen facilities, so best to choose this Airbnb if you plan on eating out a lot!

Why We Love It: Affordable and quiet in natural surroundings

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Central Garden Cottage in Mt Eden

Central Garden Cottage in Mt Eden
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Mt Eden

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This adorable cottage is a totally rare find – it’s situated in the popular Mt Eden, which is a historic district of Auckland. You can find great local cafes, pubs and restaurants in Mt Eden, and the mountain itself is a volcanic peak which you can walk up. 

Inside the cottage you’ve got a fully equipped kitchen downstairs and two couches that can fold out into sofa beds. Upstairs you have the loft room which has a queen bed beneath the slanted ceilings – true cottage style! There’s a bathroom with a walk in shower and a hair dryer too. 

The garden has a sunny dining table with an umbrella, and you get wonderful views of the natural beauty all around you. With cute rose bushes and mini-hedges, it’s the perfect place to have a tea party!

Why We Love It: Quaint little cottage in a historic precinct.

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Leafy Urban Getaway

Leafy Urban Getaway
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: West Lynn

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

If you want a quiet little getaway for yourself when you visit Auckland, don’t overlook this Airbnb. It’s a self contained ground floor apartment, completely surrounded by native bush and bird life. 

You can chill on the deck on plush outdoor beanbags, or relax in the dining and living area with native bush making your view oh-so-green. There’s a TV in the living space, and a solid wood dining table with 4 chairs so you can make guests dinner. The kitchen’s fully kitted out for that, complete with a 2 plate hob. 

The bedroom is generously sized and comfortable, with a big built in wardrobe and views over the nature reserve. The queen bed is perfect for two – and if you have guests, you can situate them on the fold out sofa bed. 

This Airbnb is great for a bit of a retreat from the city life, while still being close and well connected. 

Why We Love It: Leafy paradise not far from city buzz.

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Historic House And Peaceful Retreat In Parnell

Historic House And Peaceful Retreat In Parnell
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1.5B)

Location: Parnell

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This character house sits in the heart of Parnell, only a hop, skip and a jump away from the Parnell Village, the Museum, the Auckland Domain and Judges Bay. If you’re an art lover, it’s not far from Auckland Art Gallery. 

This is a two-storey cottage with fine furnishings and artistic touches. An inspiring stay for makers and creators, it’s filled with little delightful details like handmade ceramics. It has a private deck and courtyard filled with plants for outdoor sun-soaking, a spacious living room with a Persian rug, and an upstairs bedroom with a queen size bed. 

The bathroom has a big walk in shower and elegant interior decor, and the kitchen is well equipped with everything from A-Z including a french press for your morning brew. The host also offers seasonal fruit, artisan breads, eggs, cereals and yoghurts for your breakfast while you stay! 

Why We Love It: Artistic cottage in an artistic precinct.

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Palm Garden Apartment

Palm Garden Apartment
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1.5B)

Location: St Heliers

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This is a beach-bach style Airbnb that sits just a 2 minute walk to the beautiful St Heliers beach and just a 7 minute walk to the village restaurants and shops. With a private, secluded deck complete with a barbecue, you’ll be having balmy evenings night after night under the palm trees. 

The apartment has a sunny lounge area for you to relax in, right next to an open plan kitchen so you can socialize as you cook your dinners. In the bedroom lies a beautiful king size bed, atop a fluffy sheepskin style rug that adds a homely vibe to the place. 

Your hosts serve you a complimentary full breakfast on arrival, and you’ll likely be eating fresh eggs from the chickens on the property. There’s also an herb and vegetable garden for you to forage in!

Why We Love It: Sunny beach pad in quiet location. 

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Insider Tip: Since things are pretty spread out in Auckland, having a car is essential to make the most of your trip. Click Here to check out rental car options and get ready to hit the road!

Waterfront Apartment At Princes Wharf

Waterfront Apartment At Princes Wharf
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: 200 m from Viaduct Harbour

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This Airbnb apartment is so close to the water it’s practically floating.

The whole apartment is set up so that you have a great waterfront view wherever you go. Two stylish cushion-covered couches look out over the water and one of them turns into a sofa bed. There’s even a waterfront balcony with a table and chairs so that you can soak up the sun and the salt. 

The kitchen is modern, with polished wood floors, and all the amenities you could ask for, plus the host stocks it up with condiments, seasoning and even espresso pods for the coffee machine. The bathroom contains a vanity with a tall mirror, shampoo and conditioner, as well as a walk in shower. 

You’re right in the middle of the seafront action, and can walk for a few minutes to reach some beautiful bars, restaurants and shops. 

Plus your host offers a bottle of free sparkling wine with your stay! 

Why We Love It: Waterfront apartment with amazing seafront access.

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Anzac North Loft Apartment

Anzac North Loft Apartment
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (4BR 2B)

Location: Downtown Auckland

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

If you’re traveling with a big family or group of friends, you don’t want to miss out on seeing this gorgeous Airbnb in the heart of downtown Auckland. With an open plan living and dining room connected to the spacious, tiled kitchen, complete with barstools and couches in velvet and leather, you almost won’t want to leave this place to go out to the city! 

There are 4 bedrooms and 5 beds in this apartment, three queen size beds and two singles. 

You’ve also got two bathrooms, one of which is an ensuite and the other is shared with a big deep bathtub and a walk-in rain shower. The whole place is bright, modern and warm with lots of natural light streaming in, and cedar woodwork on the walls and floors. 

This place is a short walk from all the hot spots of Auckland, and is a tucked away gem in the middle of the city. 

Why We Love It: Luxurious modern apartment in the center of town.

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AWAY Treehouse

AWAY Treehouse
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Waiheke Island

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

This treehouse is an Airbnb experience you will never forget. Located on Waiheke island, which is a popular tourist location just off the coast of Auckland, this hidden retreat serves as an exciting adventure and a deep reconnection with nature. 

The treehouse itself has a wraparound deck for panoramic views of native bush for miles on every side. It’s accessible via a boardwalk, so you don’t have to worry about ropes or ladders to get up to this secluded romantic locale!

Inside is a double bed, a sofa bed, a wood burner and a full kitchen and bathroom. You’ll be able to relax in comfort and enjoy the amazing views – especially the starry sky at night! 

Plus the hosts even offer a luxury pampering service of full body massages and other delightful treatments. Honeymoon, anyone?

Why We Love It: Magical getaway experience just off the coast.

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Princes Wharf Gem

Princes Wharf Gem
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Princes Wharf

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

If you want to stay in the lap of luxury when you visit Auckland, you have to check out this Airbnb. It’s right on the wharf with a balcony over the water, complete with outdoor sofas and a table for your social gatherings. 

This stylish waterfront apartment has a giant, L shaped couch in the living room stocked with cushions which is perfect for sprawling out on. The living/dining area also has a TV, coffee table, and connects to the open plan kitchen which is designed in a Scandinavian, exposed wood style. 

The bedroom is queen size, and the room is decorated in autumn colours. In case you want to sleep more guests, there’s a couch and an air mattress which serve as 2 more beds. 

Being right on the waterfront has its perks, as you’re literally a few minutes walk from some of Auckland’s most popular attractions like the Spark Arena. 

Why We Love It: Waterfront views and deluxe furnishings.

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Lux Panoramic Sea View Penthouse On Princes Wharf

Lux Panoramic Sea View Penthouse On Princes Wharf
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR 1B)

Location: Princes Wharf

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

Blue sea, blue sky – you’ll feel on top of the world in this penthouse apartment. Complete with a laid-back living room, a balcony overlooking the water, and two bedrooms so you can split the bill with friends or bring your whole family. This apartment is the creme de la creme of Auckland, with unbeatable views over the water. It even has a telescope so that you can spy on the ships coming in!

Queen beds in both bedrooms, and a dedicated working space if you’re traveling on business awaits in this apartment. The bathroom has a walk in shower, and a beautiful big mirror over the sink for getting ready for a night out on Auckland’s fantastic nightlife scene. 

You’ll be cooking in the most modern of kitchens, and making your coffee in the coffee machine in the morning. What a special place to soak up the sun and the view in New Zealand’s capital city. 

Why We Love It: Penthouse experience over the water

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Luxury Country Villa B&B

Luxury Country Villa B&B
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR 1B)

Location: In the countryside, 10m drive from Albany Mall

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

This is the place to be if you prefer a rural, countryside experience and love exploring the outer regions of a city. On the outskirts you’ll find rare restaurants, wineries and shops quite unlike what you get in the CBD, and you can explore so much of the natural beauty that surrounds you. 

This little villa was too cute to pass up, and with two cute bedrooms with a queen bed in each, it makes an ideal family getaway location. This peaceful and serene setting has luscious rolling green country views, and the villa itself is styled with modern and luxurious furnishings. 

The kitchen is big and spacious, and has all modern appliances and whiteware. The bathroom is like something out of a Home & Country magazine, with a big walk in shower and natural tone decor. The outdoor wicker chairs are absolutely unbeatable spots for an evening glass of wine while the sun sets. 

Plus, if you get bored of the country, it’s only a 20m drive into the city!

Why We Love It: French style getaway in the NZ countryside.

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✨The 1 Thing We Never Leave Home Without…

Travel Insurance

Coming from someone who has been traveling the world for the last 8 years AND has been in the hospital 2x, travel insurance is something everyone NEEDS to get. Get a quote below!

Things To Do In Auckland

Auckland is a cultural hub and always has things going on, here are my top 3 recommendations for getting the most out of your time here!

  • Ride With A Local – eBike Tour – Cycle around Auckland with the comfort of an eBike with your friendly tour guide Eddie. A great way to get to know the city, pump some endorphins and make new friends!
  • The Great Auckland Craft Beer Hunt – Take a tiki tour of all the genuine craft beers on tap in Auckland. A nice way to have a tipsy afternoon, and then follow it up with a dinner out at one of Auckland’s many great restaurants
  • Create Your Own Custom Hat – Learn the art of hat making and walk away with your own, hand made hat! This is a great way to get interactive with an art form you’ve probably never tried, and have a stylish keepsake at the end of it!

For more Airbnb experiences in Auckland, click this link to see more options.

Packing for Your Airbnb

Before you take off for your trip, check out our Airbnb Packing Guide to make sure you don’t miss out on anything important!


Traveling in New Zealand? Check out these articles:

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