A New POV: The Best Seats in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland

Bestie Cafe is a place where you need not worry which way your seat faces, as the interior is just as fascinating as its outlook. Housed in St Kevin’s Arcade, one of Auckland’s most iconic buildings, Bestie is loved by many as a cafe that serves delicious food and coffee and with plenty of space to soak up the incredible surroundings. The floor to ceiling windows overlooking the tropical greenery of Myers Park offer a surreal seat in a spectacular setting to enjoy one of Bestie’s cheese toasties and a freshly brewed coffee. Alternatively, position yourself facing inwards to watch the busy lives of people around, and check out the interesting array of shops also located within the arcade.

Offering views 186 metres from above street level, the 328 metre tall Sky Tower is New Zealand’s tallest building and something of an engineering masterpiece. There are views extending in literally every direction (on a good day they extend up to 80 kilometres) and one of the best places to experience this is from the observation deck. The only problem about being up one of the country’s most iconic buildings, is that it won't form part of the view! Alternatively, book a table at the Sugar Club during happy hour - even better than discounted drinks is when admission up the tower is included with your reservation. 

An understated view often forgotten by busy city goers, but it’s one that is extremely accessible from one of the city’s main streets. As you walk along Ponsonby Road, take a few minutes to grab an ice cream from Duck Island before crossing the road to Anglesea Street, which drops down into the city. The view from the top is worthy of a postcard, with the city’s skyline perfectly framed within each side of the road. It’s not an overly busy street either, perfect for savouring your ice cream whilst enjoying the view.

Everyone’s seen the photos, but not many have actually been to Stokes Point Reserve on the North Shore. Located under the northern side of the Harbour Bridge, Stokes Point Reserve involves a simple stroll along a pathway down to the water, where you will be rewarded with views that span Auckland’s twinkling skyline. Take a seat and soak up the romance of the moment, just make sure you don’t forget your camera. 

Maungawhau/Mount Eden provides the highest natural viewpoint around central Auckland, and conveniently, it is very accessible for most city dwellers. Get the heart rate going by climbing the 25 minutes or so to the summit, and from the top enjoy the panoramic view in every direction. The obvious seat with a view is from the recently upgraded boardwalk and viewing platform that overlooks the CBD, however we’d understand if you wanted to take a seat at the summit and simply peer down into the crater - which is a majestic sight in itself! (Although note that entry into the crater is forbidden.)

The Rooftop at QT provides an elevated experience, literally six floors above the viaduct harbour. Its stylish interior is cleverly designed to accentuate the natural view, which is best enjoyed in the afternoon and at sunset. Get in early to enjoy the full experience. There is a masterfully crafted cocktail list, including two cocktails on tap (!) an extensive wine list and to snack on, there is a range of bites influenced by the Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Esther, downstairs.

A familiar sight for any Aucklander is Rangitoto Island. Visible from almost any vantage point, it’s very easy to forget the giant hill sitting in the harbour is actually a volcano! One of our favourite places to appreciate this natural wonder is at Heliers Bay Bistro, a lively eatery with incredible windows that offer views across the water towards the volcano itself. Following breakfast, lunch or dinner (yes, it has an all day menu!) take a stroll along the boardwalk up to Achilles Point, a scenic lookout point casting views back across the CBD, as well as of the Hauraki Golf and various nearby islands.

Only a short ferry ride away from downtown Auckland is Devonport, Auckland’s very own seaside village. It is home to Takarunga/Mount Victoria, the North Shore’s highest volcano. The summit is only a short, steep walk away (there is also a car park at the top if driving is preferable) and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of seats and views overlooking Rangitoto Island, the Hauraki Gulf and the North Shore. Unsurprisingly, it also offers one of the best views of the city skyline. 

Step through the velvet curtain into the modern vintage lounge that is Bar Albert. A comparatively recent addition to Auckland’s nightlife, Bar Albert opened in 2022 and has quickly become extremely well known for its views and premium experience. As the highest bar in the country (it’s a whopping 38 stories off the ground!), Bar Albert offers uninterrupted views of the skyline and vistas that stretch as far as the Waitakare ranges. Between the sunken leather lounges, the cocktails made with serious finesse and a wide range of single batch spirits, there is something for everyone to sip on, and comfortably, whilst admiring the view.

On your next visit to Auckland’s beloved art gallery, make sure you take the time to venture up the stairs and out onto the rooftop terrace. With a unique perspective overlooking Albert Park, it’s a serene spot to soak up some greenery in the heart of the city. Peruse the gallery at your own leisure, or take a guided tour of the some 15,000 works in the collection - there is a cafe onsite if you need refuelling! The gallery itself was redeveloped back in 2011 and remains one of the most memorable (and loved) buildings in the area.