With its picturesque beaches and bustling CBD, fun for the whole family awaits in (and just outside of) Auckland
This peaceful escape offers unmatched views of Rangitoto and its surrounding islands (Book now via Airbnb)
Whether you’re travelling to Auckland for a family holiday or just booking in a much-needed staycation, there’s far more to Auckland than just the Sky Tower (although going up that is a must-do, if we’re being honest).
Finding the right accommodation for a family can be tricky: ideally it’ll have spaces to come together but enough room for everyone to spread out and do their own thing. We’ve gathered some of our top abodes placed to enjoy everything Auckland has to offer. Opt for an architecturally designed delight overlooking rugged west Auckland beaches; a a luxury apartment in the heart of the city; or even an ex-winery turned into funky family accommodation.
The best family-friendly accommodation around Auckland to book now
1. A Waiheke escape with swimming pool and sea views
From $1235 a night on Airbnb
Best for: Families seeking sun-soaked chill time
Jump on a ferry in downtown Auckland and make your way across to this family home on Waiheke Island. Once you’re there you’ll be reluctant to leave! This large family home sleeps eight, making it perfect for a dual-family escape, especially with Little Oneroa beach and playground less than a 10-minute walk away. Let the kids exhaust their endless energy swimming in the pool, playing on the large lawn, or watching movies in the media room, while you enjoy a few island-made red wines next to the outdoor fire.
Don’t miss: Give the kids a day out to remember by booking spots on the Waiheke flying fox zipline and forest walk
Key features:
- Sleeps eight
- Swimming pool
- Indoor and outdoor fire places
2. A farm house surrounded by lavender fields
From $959 a night on Airbnb
Best for: Families seeking a wholesome rural retreat
Want to get the children away from their screens? Get them off the couch and into some of that good country air at this self-contained farm retreat, only 30 minutes out of the city. There’s a small farm shop on the property to browse and children are welcome to help feed the friendly alpacas and sheep. Don’t worry parents, you’ve been thought of too – a complimentary bottle of the farm-made limoncello awaits. And yes, this accommodation is smack-bang in the middle of lavender fields, so we can only imagine the smells (and the sleeps) are gorgeous.
Key features:
- Sleeps eight
- Farm animals on property
- Olive grove and lavender fields to roam
- Highchair and travel cot available
3. An architectural abode in picturesque Piha
From $409 a night on Airbnb
Best for: Explorer-types with energy to burn
This simple architectural beauty is nestled amongst nature. With its lush lawns, tree-lined gardens, trampoline, treehouse and basketball hoop, it’s got everything you need to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy the ocean views on the balcony. If you want to stretch your legs, Piha’s famous black-sand beach is only a five-minute drive away, and the scenic Mercer Bay Loop walking track begins right at the end of the road.
Key features:
- Sleeps eight (including children’s bunk room)
- Sonos Bluetooth sound system
- Children’s books and toys provided, cot available on request
- Playground on property
4. A luxury apartment in the heart of Auckland’s CBD
From $1090 a night on Booking.com
Best for: Those wanting to be right in the thick of the city’s action
Have a weekend of soaking up Auckland CBD culture ahead? This luxury apartment situated in the heart of the city should do the trick. With 270-degree views of Auckland, you couldn’t get a better view of the Sky Tower if you tried. Perfect for families with teens and older children, this apartment is only a short walk from attractions like Commercial Bay, the Britomart Precinct and some of the city’s best bars and restaurants.
Don’t miss: You’re only a short distance to Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, so get up close and personal with some adorable penguins during a penguin discovery experience
Key features:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Indoor swimming pool and hot tub
- Gym
- Sky Tower and ocean views
5. Modern marvel overlooking Rangitoto
From $650 a night on Airbnb
Best for: Families after an equal mix of chill and play
This stunning architectural abode is only an hour from the city, but fabulously close to unspoilt beaches and a world-class mountain-bike park. With epic views of Rangitoto, its surrounding islands and the ocean, the stress is sure to melt away when stepping foot into this 220 square metre minimalist retreat. The outdoor dining area is great for family barbeques and you’ll find a bunk room at the rear of the house for the kids to collapse in after a day of swimming and biking.
Key features:
- BBQ
- Walking distance to Waiti Bay and Tawhitoki
- 10 minutes drive from ForFourty Mountain Bike Park
6. A funky ex-winery in Warkworth
From $650 a night on Airbnb
Best for: Those who believe the house is as important as the location
Normally a winery isn’t the first thing we think of with the words ‘family-friendly’, but this former winery is now a unique holiday accommodation with room for the whole whānau. Nestled on 45 acres of forest and farmland, close to Matakana and Snell’s Beach, this spot has some serious ‘wow’ factor. The ex-winemaking area houses unique ‘pods on wheels’ for two of the four bedrooms, with a third pod acting as a TV snug with a couch. Heading in winter? The hosts can help have the fire roaring for your arrival so all you need to worry about is whether you crack a red first, or jump in the spa.
Don’t miss: The nearby Matakana Sculptureum galleries and gardens
Features:
- Hot tub (lockable for child safety)
- BBQ and commercial kitchen to use
- Piano, board games and books to use
- Fire pit
Related articles:
- 4 best Wānaka Airbnb stays for your next lakeside holiday
- 5 New Zealand Airbnbs for an unforgettable escape
- The best boutique Christchurch accommodation for a winter getaway
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