Aukland, New Zealand, is an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for a healthy tech culture scene and a high quality of life that blends great food, green space, and welcoming locals. With nearly year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, it’s one of the sunniest cities on earth, with plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, or working outside from a cafe’s patio.
Why Auckland, New Zealand, is Perfect for Remote Workers
Beyond the fabulous weather and atmosphere, New Zealand makes it easy for digital nomads to visit. There’s not a specific visa for digital nomads, but there is a longer-term Visitor Visa to stay in the country for three to nine months. It’s always a good idea to look into a Visitor Visa in advance, as you may not need one before you visit but instead have a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). Regardless, you shouldn’t have much trouble coming into Auckland and enjoying the best of what the city has to offer.
Where to Find the Best Co-Working Spaces in Auckland
Auckland boasts a diverse range of neighborhoods, with co-working spaces catering to digital nomads seeking a blend of productivity and inspiration. Here are some of the stops to add to your list of reliable remote work stops:.
Loft Style Co-working: Enjoy a flexible workspace with co-working options tailored to meet your needs. Choose from hot desks or a semi-permanent workstation. You can also snag a private studio if you need to meet remotely with clients or prefer a quieter work experience.
Britomart Rooftop Co-working Space: There’s nothing like working from a rooftop with views of Auckland Harbour. Britomart Place features three floors of upscale co-working space with multiple balconies, private office suites, and meeting rooms. You can also rent event spaces or hang out at the onsite bars and cafes with your fellow co-workers.
Auckland Central Co-working Space: If you work in the legal space, you’ll feel right at home with Auckland Central Co-Working Space, where lawyers and startups tend to gather. Central Co-working is just steps from Auckland University Law School and the High Court, making for great networking and interesting people watching.
Character Space in Wellington: Work near the bustling Jackson St. alongside cafes, bars, and restaurants. This space has tones of natural light and a simple, laid-back atmosphere to catch up on your remote work.
Most co-working spaces also offer daily and monthly passes, which can save on the cost of paying daily. For a casual stop at a cafe with good WiFi, try the Allpress Caffetteria or Bestie Cafe to grab a snack and get work done without spending money on a desk at a co-working space.
The Best Time to Visit Auckland
Make the most of your Auckland, New Zealand, experience by timing your visit to meet your preferences. Fortunately, the city offers a temperate maritime climate, making it suitable year-round. For the sunniest, warmest weather with the most outdoor events and festivals, visit Auckland between November and April. On the downside, these months are also the busiest (and most expensive) times of the year for tourism.
Explore the Best Adventures and Experiences in Auckland
Not sure where to start your Auckland exploration? Here are some must-see attractions for your digital nomad itinerary:
Sky Tower
Get an Insta-worthy photo op at the top of New Zealand’s tallest tower. Auckland’s Sky Tower is inexpensive and offers all the views you could want. For an adrenaline rush, the SkyWalk or SkyJump lets you walk around on a platform with no rails but with the safety of a harness. The guides even encourage you to lean over to get your heart pumping and earn some bragging rights.
Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb
The only bridge climb in the country is at the Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb, where you can make our way to the top of the iconic landmark. Ascend along the railings and reach the summit for 360-degree views of Aukland for a bucket list adventure.
Auckland Museum
Regarded as one of the best museums in the Southern Hemisphere, Auckland Museum is one of the few places you’ll see a collection of Māori and Pacific artwork and artifacts. You’ll also see a collection of social and military history collections.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
As the largest art institution in New Zealand, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki boasts over 15,000 works. The museum hosts international and local art, along with traveling exhibitions.
Tips on Where Digital Nomads Should Stay in Auckland
The right accommodations can transform your digital nomad experience into a rewarding, transformative experience. Or it could end up being a place you tolerate and can’t wait to leave. Choose wisely in areas like Ponsonby for a lively atmosphere with trendy cafes and boutiques. Over in Parnell, digital nomads will find a mix of history and sophistication. You can also opt for a full-service apartment or boutique hotel that gives you a place to work and rest. If you’re on a budget, try Haka Lodge Ponsonb, Fort Street Hostel, or Hekerua Lodge Backpackers.
Auckland Safety and Transportation Know-How
Auckland is known as a safe city, although caution is always advised if you’re solo or out and about at night. The public transportation system, known as Auckland Transport (AT) is a reliable and inexpensive method, including buses and ferries for getting around the city and exploring its diverse neighborhoods. Local bus service is the most extensive of all the options in the area. You’ll find the Kiwi attitude laid-back and friendly as you take in the beauty of the city and surrounding area. You can also find ride-sharing, electric scooters, or e-bikes for quick on-demand transportation options.
The Best Excursions from Auckland
Auckland is a bustling city with plenty to see and do, but some of the best adventures lie outside of its boundaries. Start by getting out of the city and immersing yourself in nature along the trails in the nearby Waitakere Ranges. You’ll hike through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the coastline. Or try canyoning in Piha, a type of sport that combines the thrills of abseiling, cliff jumping, swimming, sliding, and climbing. You’ll make your way through canyons and waterfalls nestled along the stunning views of the Waitakere Ranges.
Hobbiton is a must for “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” fans to see where the films were made. It’s located a few hours south of Auckland for a good overnight adventure. Or try the geothermal wonders and Maori culture in Rotorua, just a short drive from Auckland. When you’re ready to imbibe with your remote co-workers, take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting, art galleries, and scenic walks along pristine beaches.
Some digital nomads are surprised to realize that Australia and New Zealand aren’t all that close. But they’re on the same side of the world and about a 3 1/2-hour flight away from Sydney or Brisbane. You’ll never be closer, so make the most of the relatively short distance and plan a weekend getaway before leaving New Zealand.
Next Steps
Auckland is more than a great city with a friendly Kiwi vibe; it offers culture, glorious weather, and outdoor excursions. There’s always something to see and do in Aukland, New Zealand so make the most of organizing your adventure and finding the best places to see, find out where to eat, and figure out where to stay next. Download the Odyssey app here.
