Looking for the best hotels to stay in Auckland for families? Keep scrolling to find out the best places to stay in New Zealand’s capital for the best family vacation!
This list of the best family-friendly hotels in Auckland was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
New Zealand is an incredible city to visit with kids! Sitting in a bay on the North Island and having views of both the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, The “City of Sails” has plenty to offer families.
World-class shopping, phenomenal dining , black-sand beaches, volcanoes you can hike, adventures like skydiving, and whale-watching experiences are just a few of the highlights you can enjoy in and around this incredibly multifaceted city.
If you’re wondering where to stay in the city, I’ve put together a list of the best neighborhoods for families.
Additionally, I’ve compiled some of the top family-friendly hotels in Auckland, which should help you get started with booking and planning your itinerary!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of New Zealand blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Auckland with kids
Popular Auckland Tours/Activities
- Odyssey Sensory Maze (this is a skip-the-line ticket)
- Auckland Museum (this is a skip-the-line ticket)
- Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour (this is a great city break)
- Day Trip to Hobbiton (MUST-DO for any Lord of the Rings fans)
- Auckland family photo shoot (there are affordable ones on Flytographer)
Kid-Friendly Auckland Hotels
- Crowne Plaza Auckland (right near the Sky Tower)
- MÖVENPICK Hotel Auckland (near the ferry terminal)
- Hotel DeBrett (awesome location)
Where to Stay in Auckland with Kids
There are several neighborhoods in Auckland you can choose to stay in. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city for families:
Auckland CBD
CBD is a great choice if you’re looking for a central Auckland location. Short for the “Central Business District, this neighborhood offers a wide array of accommodation options, dining choices, and attractions.
It’s a very lively neighborhood that’s perfect for families who want to be in the heart of the action.
Staying here means you’ll be close to plenty of the top attractions in Auckland such as the Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery, and the Auckland Zoo. You’ll also be within walking distance of many of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Moreover, Auckland CBD is well connected via public transportation to other parts of the city as the Britomart Transport Centre, which is the main hub for buses and trains in the city is located in the heart of CBD.
Parnell
If you’re looking for a family-friendly and quiet neighborhood to stay in Auckland, Parnell is another great choice.
What makes Parnell great is the fact that it’s a historic suburb with a very charming village feel to it.
Even though it’s not as central as CBD, Parnell is located just a short drive or bus ride from downtown, so you’ll have easy access to other Auckland attractions like the Sky Tower, the Auckland Zoo, and the waterfront.
Being here feels extremely peaceful. There are plenty of boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants all over as well as museums like The Auckland War Memorial Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of Maori artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Moreover, Parnell is also home to the Parnell Baths, which is a great place to take the kids. The complex has an outdoor pool, a slide, and a diving board, and there’s a separate toddler pool for younger children.
If green spaces are what you’re after, you’ll also find the Auckland Domain here, which is a huge park with picnic spots, trails, playgrounds, and more.
Grey Lynn Neighborhood
This charming suburb is located just a few kilometers from the city center, making it easy to access all the attractions that Auckland has to offer while being away from the hustle and bustle.
One of the best things about Grey Lynn is its abundance of parks and green spaces, which make it a very popular spot for families. Playgrounds, sports fields, and a skate park are all found here in case the kids want to take a break from sightseeing!
Grey Lynn is also home to lots of great restaurants and cafes, so you won’t have to go too far to find a meal that everyone will enjoy.
Devonport Neighborhood
Another amazing family-friendly neighborhood to stay in Auckland is Devonport, which is a charming seaside village with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do.
One of the highlights of Devonport is the stunning views of the city skyline and the harbor it offers.
If you want to visit the city, you can take a ferry from Devonport Wharf to downtown, which is a very interesting experience for the kids in and on itself!
Devonport also has some great parks and playgrounds like the Windsor Reserve and Devonport Domain and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes scattered all over.
You will also find boutique shops and galleries here.
Overall, Devonport is a great neighborhood to stay in Auckland with kids. It’s peaceful and safe and it offers plenty of activities and amenities for the entire family to enjoy.
Ponsonby
Ponsonby is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood with a great selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
It’s a fantastic place to stay in Auckland with kids thanks to the fact that there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.
One of the best things about Ponsonby is its central location. It’s just a short drive from the CBD, the Auckland Zoo, and the Museum of Transport and Technology.
There are also plenty of parks and playgrounds in the area such as Western Park and Grey Lynn Park.
Best Auckland Hotels for Families
Now that you know what the best neighborhoods for families visiting Auckland are, it’s time to choose a hotel!
You want a hotel that is family-friendly, spacious enough to accommodate everyone, and ideally located close to attractions and activities. Here are some of my picks:
SkyCity Hotel Auckland
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel in the heart of the bustling CBD neighborhood, SkyCity Hotel Auckland is a great option. With its central location and spacious rooms with double beds, it’s an excellent choice for families.
The hotel offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a kids’ club in case you want to keep the kids entertained for a while. Check rates here.
One of the best things about SkyCity Hotel Auckland is its location. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and close to many of Auckland’s top attractions.
You will be just a short walk away from the Sky Tower, the Auckland Art Gallery, and the Auckland Zoo, all of which are must-sees for visitors!
Moreover, SkyCity Hotel is pretty budget-friendly and great value for money if you consider its ratings, location, and amenities.
This makes it ideal if you want a very comfortable stay that doesn’t break the bank. Check the latest rates and availability.
Nesuto St Martins Apartment Hotel
The Nesuto St Martins Apartment Hotel offers spacious and modern apartments that can accommodate families of four or more.
The apartments are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay in Auckland with kids, including a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine and dryer, and free Wi-Fi. Check rates here.
The hotel also offers a range of amenities for families, including a heated outdoor pool, a fitness center with an indoor pool, and a children’s playground.
Nesuto St Martins is conveniently located in the heart of Auckland and just a short walk from some of the city’s most important attractions like the Auckland Zoo and the Auckland Domain.
There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby, making it easy to find something to do after sightseeing. Check the latest rates and availability.
Grand Millennium Auckland
Another centric hotel that is close to everything is the Grand Millenium Auckland. You’ll have some of the main sights in the city as well as restaurants and shops just a stone’s throw away during your day!
The rooms at the Grand Millennium Auckland are spacious and comfortable, making it a great choice for families. Check rates here.
The hotel offers different room types that can accommodate families of various sizes, including rooms that sleep four or more.
One of the best things about the Grand Millennium Auckland is its indoor pool. This is a great feature for families traveling with kids as there are plenty of lounge chairs where you can relax while the kids have fun swimming.
As a bonus, there’s also a restaurant on-site, which is convenient if you don’t feel like venturing out for meals after a day of adventuring in and around Auckland! Check the latest rates and availability.
Auckland City Hotel
Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers spacious rooms, friendly staff, and a very centric location.
The hotel’s family rooms come with two double beds, so there’s plenty of space for everyone to sleep comfortably. Check rates here.
The rooms are also equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi.
While here, you’ll be within walking distance of some of the city’s top attractions as well as plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes. Check the latest rates and availability.
President Hotel Auckland
The President Hotel Auckland is another great choice for the best Auckland hotels for families as it offers Family Rooms that come with two queen beds and a sofa bed, making it easy to sleep everyone comfortably.
The rooms are also equipped with a kitchenette, so you can prepare meals for your family if you prefer to eat in every once in a while or want to be able to prepare snacks before heading out to explore the city. Check rates here.
The President Hotel Auckland is also within walking distance of many of Auckland’s top attractions, including the Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery, and the Viaduct Harbour.
There are also tons of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you’ll never be short of options for places to eat if you don’t want to cook.
The hotel also offers a range of amenities that are great for kids. There’s an indoor swimming pool, a games room with table tennis and foosball, and even a movie theatre to relax in after a day spent adventuring. Check the latest rates and availability.
Ponsonby Manor
Located in the trendy Ponsonby neighborhood, Ponsonby Manor is perfect for families who want to be close to the action but still enjoy a peaceful retreat.
The rooms at Ponsonby Manor are spacious and can accommodate families. Check rates here.
The beds are super comfortable and you’ll have a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-fridge.
Moreover, the hotel serves a delicious continental breakfast each morning, with fresh fruit, pastries, and cereal. Kids will love the pancakes and waffles!
Ponsonby Manor is also great for kids because of its location. Even though it’s not as central as the other hotels on this list, you’ll be a short drive or bus ride away from the heart of the city and its attractions.
The hotel is just a short walk from Victoria Park, which has a playground and plenty of space for kids to run around. Check the latest rates and availability.
Cordis Auckland Hotel
With spacious rooms, the Cordin Auckland Hotel is perfect for families looking for a bit of a luxurious experience.
The hotel is located in a very lively uptown area and within walking distance of museums, galleries, shops, and plenty of attractions. Check rates here.
The rooms at the Cordis Auckland are modern and comfortable, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars included.
Moreover, the hotel has an indoor heated pool, which the kids can enjoy while you hop in the hot tub and sauna!
The hotel also has a great restaurant, the Eight Restaurant, which serves a buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can enjoy delicious food without having to leave the hotel.
They have lots of kid-friendly options, too! Check the latest rates and availability.
Family Hotels in Auckland New Zealand FAQs
Do any Auckland hotels have an outdoor swimming pool?
Yes, several hotels in Auckland feature outdoor swimming pools. For instance, the Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group, has a heated rooftop pool, and the Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments also features a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Which Auckland family hotels offer free parking?
Many hotels offer free parking, though it’s always best to check in advance. The Heritage Auckland, Novotel Auckland Ellerslie, and Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre are a few examples of family-friendly hotels in Auckland that typically offer free parking.
What’s the most affordable hotel in Auckland for families?
Prices can fluctuate based on season and availability, so it’s hard to pinpoint the most affordable hotel at any given time.
However, some budget-friendly hotels that cater to families include the Ibis Budget Auckland Central, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites, and the Auckland North Shore Motels & Holiday Park.
Always cross-check rates on multiple booking platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Are there vacation rentals suitable for families in Auckland?
Yes, websites like vrbo and Bookabach have numerous listings for family-friendly vacation rentals in Auckland. You can find options with multiple bedrooms, kitchens for meal prep, and yards for outdoor play.
What should I consider when choosing accommodation for my family in Auckland?
Look for accommodations with family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, kid-friendly restaurants, babysitting services, and close proximity to attractions.
Space is another consideration; ensure you have enough bedrooms and living space for your family to be comfortable.
Are there accommodations in Auckland close to kid-friendly attractions?
Absolutely! Many accommodations are situated near kid-friendly attractions like the Auckland Zoo, Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, and the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). Always check the location before booking.
Is public transport in Auckland easy to navigate with kids?
Auckland’s public transport system is generally easy to navigate with kids. Buses, trains, and ferries are all equipped to handle strollers.
However, having accommodations within walking distance to attractions or near a public transport line can make your visit more convenient.
Auckland Family Hotels Wrap Up
Auckland is home to a wide range of family-friendly hotels and accommodations that offer spacious rooms and a range of amenities to keep everyone happy.
I hope this list was helpful for you to find the best accommodation options and areas to stay in Sail City for a great vacation with the little ones!
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious five-star hotel or a budget-friendly apartment-style hotel where you have more privacy, there is something for every family in Auckland as well as great neighborhoods for kids to choose from.