This is my traveler’s guide to house sitting in Auckland. Hannah and I are just finishing up a wonderful 15-day house sit in the city. Here’s how we secured an awesome stay, and all the great things to look out for during a trip to Auckland.
Our time in New Zealand’s capital is part of a wider trip that included stays further north and our next stop, 8 days driving around the South Island. New Zealand has been on our travel wish list for almost two decades, and it has more than lived up to our expectations.
In this guide to house sitting in Auckland, I have covered everything from how to find house sitting jobs in New Zealand to the best bars and restaurants you should visit during your stay. Let’s get started!
Why Everyone Should Visit Auckland
Auckland is a city that blends plenty of natural beauty with a healthy dose of urban life. The city’s is a modern metropolitan district, home to thriving businesses and commerce. With a stunning waterfront, spacious green areas and parks, as well as nearby islands to explore, there’s plenty to make every visit memorable.
The city’s friendly locals, the incredible food and brewery scene, and endless outdoor pursuits always ensure something to enjoy. So, whether hiking and kayaking are your thing, or fine dining and craft beer bars are more to your vacation tastes, Auckland has it all!
What to Expect in Auckland
Auckland is a bustling city that manages to maintain a laid-back vibe. As I’ve already alluded to, it’s known for its blend of natural and urban attractions. Expect stunning harbor views, towering volcanoes, and easy access to many beautiful beaches.
The city is straightforward to navigate, with plenty of public transport options and pedestrian-friendly areas. You’ll find everything from high-end shopping and trendy cafes to cozy parks and lively markets. The mix of cultures also means an exciting variety of food, offering flavors from all over the world.
Auckland’s surrounding areas offer countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. You can hike up dormant volcanoes, explore rainforests, or take a ferry to one of the nearby islands.
House Sitting in Auckland
New Zealand is a sparse country with a population of around 5.2 million people. A significant portion of the population, and subsequently, most of the house sits that come online for NZ are in Auckland.
Budget accommodation does exist in the city but much like anywhere, long-term stays and levels of comfort come at a premium. House sitting is becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand and presents as a realistic accommodation option, whatever your travel style.
My Experience of House Sitting in Auckland
I enjoy writing guides to house sitting when I am currently still at the house sit! Right now, Archie, the Labradoodle under our care is snooring under the desk as Hannah and I both hammer away at our laptops.
We are staying just outside of the city, in the beautiful suburb of Devonport. There’s a bridge that connects the traffic to the city or a handy ferry that takes us from central Devonport to the Auckland CBD in minutes. It’s a very chilled neighborhood with lots of cafes, independent shops, and a few cool bars.
We are also watching a self-sufficient cat called Rosie. She spends most of her time outside and pops back in at meal times or to snuggle up for a cat nap. The house is one of the loveliest we have taken care of. It has a cinema room, a gym and sauna, a hot tub, and the comfiest bed I have ever slept in!
Why Use House Sitting for Accommodation in Auckland
House sitting is a unique way to travel and stay in comfortable homes without the hefty accommodation costs. By looking after someone’s home and often their pets, you can enjoy local living while saving money on expensive hotels or rentals. It’s a win-win for both travelers and homeowners alike.
Aside from the financial savings, house sitting is all out experiencing a place more authentically. Instead of staying in touristy areas, house sitting often places you in residential neighborhoods, letting you explore like a local. You’ll get to know your surroundings, shop at local markets, and enjoy a slower pace of travel.
House sitting also provides a sense of routine and comfort that’s often hard to find while traveling. Having your own space, a cozy home base, and sometimes even the company of pets makes the experience more relaxing. For those on longer trips, it’s a refreshing way to balance adventure with everyday comforts.
House Sitting Opportunities in Auckland
House sitting is an emerging market in Auckland – but don’t let that deter you. We’ve personally secured house sitting placements here, proving it’s entirely possible.
Hundreds of active users are currently registered with platforms like Trusted Housesitters. A quick search shows various listings ranging from short weekend stays in city apartments to longer assignments in gorgeous suburban homes.
Although Auckland may not have the sheer volume of listings seen in the US, Australia, or the UK, there are still plenty of opportunities for house sitters. In the next section, we’ll dive into tips for securing a house sit here.
How to Secure a House Sit in Auckland
To apply for a house sit in Auckland, you’ll need to join a house sitting platform, we highly recommend Trusted Housesitters. This user-friendly site has thousands of listings worldwide, with membership starting at $129/year. How does that compare to the cost of one night in an average New Zealand hotel?
We use Trusted Housesitters so much we even have our own unique referral code for our friends and readers. So, use code BEACHES25 to save 25% on any membership, and click here to sign up.
Once you’re signed up, create a detailed and honest profile that highlights your strengths and reasons for wanting to house sit. Complete all verification steps to reassure potential hosts and include links to as many social media or professional profiles as possible for added credibility.
Finding the Right House Sit and Applying
Use search filters to find house sits in Auckland that match your dates and preferences. If nothing appears right away, save your search and the Trusted Housesitters app will notify you when new listings match your criteria. Act quickly, as good placements in Auckland will be highly sought after.
Always read listings carefully and apply with a personalized message, addressing any specific requests mentioned. Be clear about your commitment to traveling to New Zealand for the dates listed to avoid any confusion or hesitation.
If the hosts are interested, they may arrange a call to discuss details and get to know you. From there, the host will decide and offer the sit to their preferred candidate. For more information on acing the application process read my Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a House Sit.
5 Top Tips for Securing a House Sit in Auckland
For a library of information on all aspects of house sitting, from getting started to being a success, head over to our dedicated Advice Page. But for now here are my top 5 tips for bagging those awesome Auckland house sits.
Top Tips
- Create a well-detailed profile, showcasing your experience and love for animals to appeal to Auckland homeowners.
- Set alerts and apply quickly for listings as house sits in Auckland are highly competitive and can get filled fast.
- Personalize your application by referencing the specific details of the house sit, pets, and location.
- Stay flexible with your dates, as Auckland house sits can vary in length and may open up unexpectedly.
- Complete all verifications and consider including references and social media links for added trust and transparency.
Best Bars in Auckland
Having secured an awesome house sit in Auckland, it’s time to explore the city. First off, here are some excellent bars that I enjoyed visiting.
Top Auckland Bars
The Brewers Co-Operative: This is a great corner taproom bar with a huge selection of different beers. It has a cool retro feel and a welcoming ambiance. The food menu is simple but delivered well. The fish tacos were great and I highly recommend the chicken wings. Find it here.
Vultures Lane: Coming highly recommended, we made this our first stop while walking around the city. They have an impressive selection of beers and it’s a nice relaxed and friendly environment. The pies are some of the best in the city! Click here for directions.
The Fox: Having lived my life an hour from England’s capital, I am always a little cautious when I see a themed London pub anywhere. But The Fox is a nice slice of home with all the trimmings of a great British boozer. It’s a big bar with regular live music, free pool, and a cozy fireplace. Find it here.
Best Restaurants in Auckland
Auckland’s food scene offers a fantastic variety, from high-end dining to budget-friendly gems. Whether you’re after the exquisite or just a casual bite, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Here are three top picks across the price spectrum that I enjoyed during my time in the city.
Top Auckland Restaurants;
Ahi: A true taste of New Zealand, with local ingredients and dishes showcasing the country’s culinary diversity. Paua abalone and lamb are highlights, cooked to perfection with a modern twist. Stunning waterfront views and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere make it a memorable dining experience. Find it here.
Federal Delicatessen: Better known as The Fed, this is a New York-style diner with a Kiwi twist, offering hearty comfort food. Their pastrami sandwich and poutine are unbeatable – we had a mega brunch here. It’s a great spot for a casual yet satisfying meal with friendly service. Click here for directions.
Eden Noodles Cafe: For budget-friendly eats, this is my top choice for delicious, spicy Sichuan-style noodles. Their signature Dan Dan noodles and spicy wontons are a must, especially if you like a bit of heat. It’s a small, no-frills spot, but the flavor-packed dishes make it worth the visit. Find it here.
Best Things to Do in Auckland
Auckland is packed with amazing activities, from iconic film locations to natural wonders. Whether you’re a fan of epic landscapes or unique wildlife, there’s plenty to explore. Here are three top experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.
Top Things to Do in Auckland
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour: Step into Middle-earth with a guided tour of Hobbiton, the famous Lord of the Rings set. Wander through the lush Shire, see Bilbo’s house, and enjoy a beer at the Green Dragon Inn. Book your tour now to relive the movie magic.
Dolphin and Whale Watching: Embark on a thrilling marine adventure, where you can spot dolphins, whales, and other sea creatures off Auckland’s stunning coast. It’s an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Book your whale and dolphin-watching tour today.
Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour: Explore the rugged beauty of Piha Beach and the nearby rainforest on this guided tour. Hike through lush trails and enjoy the iconic black-sand beach. Join a Piha Beach and rainforest tour for an unforgettable day in nature.
Best Day Trips from Auckland
Auckland offers plenty of great day trip options just a short distance from the city. Whether you’re after scenic views, charming towns, or outdoor adventure, here are three must-visit destinations for a perfect escape.
Top Day Trips from Auckland
Devonport: Just a quick ferry ride from Auckland, Devonport is a picturesque seaside village with historic charm, boutique shops, and stunning views of the city skyline. I stayed here during my time in Auckland, and it’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. Click here for ferry details.
Waiheke Island: Known for its vineyards, beaches, and laid-back vibe, Waiheke Island is the perfect day trip for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. You can explore boutique wineries, swim in secluded bays, or hike through scenic trails. Find bus and ferry schedules here.
Rangitoto Island: Rangitoto, Auckland’s iconic volcanic island offers adventurous day-trippers fantastic hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. The summit hike is a must, with lava fields and lush native bush along the way. Get ferry information here.
Conclusion
I hope this guide to house sitting in Auckland has given you all the information you need to find, secure, and thoroughly enjoy a stay in New Zealand’s fantastic capital city.
I have never known a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty to be so closely intertwined. Auckland is a city where you can literally hike up a volcano in the morning, have lunch in Middle Earth, and then hit happy hours in the cool city bars. It’s a place full of opportunity and a traveler’s dream. Enjoy!
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