Fancy a weekend glamping on Waiheke Island? How about a romantic escape to a little railway cabin near the Hanua Ranges National Park? Looking for a central and arty stay in Ponsonby? This big list of Cool and Unique Places to Stay in Auckland for under $200 per night gives you a diverse and quirky range of accommodation that you’ve probably never heard of!
From Auckland’s central suburbs to bush and beach locales all within a 30-minute radius. Perfect if you’re an Aucklander looking for a unique holiday, with no long drive ahead, or a visitor seeking a quirky stay in this wonderful metropolitan city of volcanoes, islands, beautiful beaches, and sub-tropical forest…
So what’s coming up? Boutique Hotels, Art Hotel, Boatsheds, Waiheke Island Glamping, Cute cottages, Rangitoto Island Bach, Barn, Convent, Treehouse, Bush Escape, Railway Cabin, Romantic Caravan…
Please note: prices vary according to the seasons so click on the accommodation link to see the most up-to-date price.
- 1. The Devereux Boutique Hotel – Remuera
- 2. The Great Ponsonby Arthotel – Ponsonby
- 3. The Convent – Grey Lynn
- 4. Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay – Rangitoto Island
- 5. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush – Titirangi
- 6. Chalet, Rural Auckland – Puhoi
- 7. The Barn in Riverhead – North West Auckland
- 8. Silverdale Retreat – Orewa
- 9. Boutique Railway Cabin, in Hunua – Clevedon
- 10. Fantail Bush Chalet – Parakakau
- 11. Coastal Retro Caravan Nights – Beachlands
- 12. The Boathouse Luxury Accommodation – Shelly Park
- 13. Boatsheds on the Bay – Waiheke Island
- 14. Yurts at the Terraces – Waiheke Island
Location: Auckland | North Island | Waiheke Island | Titirangi | Ponsonby | Grey Lynn | Remuera | Puhoi | Orewa |
Accommodation Type: Glamping and Yurts | Quirky | Conversions
Links to: VRBO/Bookabach and Booking.com
Central Auckland:
1. The Devereux Boutique Hotel – Remuera
Best for: 4 Star Elegant Boutique Hotel, Hot Breakfast, Location, Affordable
Located in posh Remuera but with a pretty (low) price tag this is a home away from home for many guests. The Devereux, a historic villa dating back to the 1890s is now a stylish and modern boutique hotel. The suites are peaceful and warm and each is designed with an exciting overseas theme.
Rooms have a queen-size bed, en-suite, and TV, and also include free WIFI, coffee/tea making and some have spa baths. Some rooms can also accommodate three guests. A hot-cooked breakfast is included in the nightly rate. If you’re looking for a room under $100 then the economy rooms are a perfect place to stay in Auckland (with shared bathrooms).
Location-wise The Devereux is a walk away from eating places, bars, and shops. A bus stop is outside the hotel to take you into the city; the motorway is near for the Newmarket Shopping Centre, Parnell, Mount Eden, Central Auckland, the airport, North Shore, and beyond.
Good to Know:
- Rooms for 2 or 3 guests
- Shared Lounges
- Family suites available
- TV in each suite and queen-size beds
- Parking on site
- Laundry available to use
- Check prices and availability at the Devereux Boutique Hotel
2. The Great Ponsonby Arthotel – Ponsonby
Best for: Arty B&B, Legendary Breakfast, Location, Spacious Rooms, Gardens, Books, and Art
New Zealand and Pacific art adorn The Great Ponsonby Arthotel run by avid art and culture lovers. This friendly heritage bed and breakfast includes 11 rooms with en-suite: studios in the main villa, studios in the courtyard, and a fantastic penthouse in the main villa. The studios in the main villa come in at under $200 but the other accommodation costs a bit more than this.
Guests love the little touches like complimentary drinks, the hot breakfast (veges catered for), and the location. You’re only a few minutes from buzzing Ponsonby Road with its cafe culture, bars, and restaurants. Theatres, art galleries, live music venues, Sky Tower, Viaduct Basin, and Eden Park are all close to this popular B&B.
Heading to the Beach? You’re only a kilometer from one of Auckland’s best secret beaches, Sentinel Beach. A small beach perfect for a swim on hot days or a leisurely picnic. Worth the walk for the incredible views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Another great local beach in the next little bay is Home Bay Beach. Check clean water quality at the Swim Guide here.
Good to Know:
- Free WIFI
- Satellite TV
- Daily Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Check prices and availability at The Great Ponsonby Arthotel
3. The Convent – Grey Lynn
Best for: 4.5 Star Boutique Hotel, Renovated Convent, Art, Design, Close to CBD and Grey Lynn Eateries
This is one of the more unique places to stay in Auckland and just the most perfect staycation spot in stylish Grey Lynn. And it’s affordable! The Convent is a Spanish mission-style building dating back to 1922 when it was St Joseph’s Convent aka a nunnery until 1993.
Now a gorgeous boutique hotel with 22 modern, rustic rooms with wooden floors, tiled bathrooms, natural woven linen, and industrial/antique furniture – all-in-all elegantly designed in a natural and earthy way with a nod to the past and the present.
Good to Know:
- Free WIFI
- Twin, Double and Triple rooms – some with balconies
- Free Parking
- 3kms from the centre of Auckland and 21 minutes by car to the airport
- Lots of cafes and restaurants near the hotel – Malt Public House – friendly gastro pub, Postal Service Cafe – in the old Post Office serving Kōkako Organic Coffee and Vege food, Pocket Bar and Kitchen – neighbourhood bar and delicious eats
- Check prices and availability at The Convent
Unique Places to Stay in Auckland: Rangitoto Island
4. Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay – Rangitoto Island
Best for: Holiday Retro Baches for 6 Guests, Island Hideaway, Swimming, Hiking, Games
Why not grab the crew and spend a retro holiday on Rangitoto Island? The Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust offers two classic holiday baches (holiday homes) on this volcanic island at Islington Bay. This bay is a 1.5-hour walk from Rangitoto Wharf, which is where the Auckland ferry arrives.
But why not catch a water taxi straight to the front steps of your very own island getaway?
Staying in one of these baches is a step back in time with off-grid living, bunk beds, games from the 1940s, swimming kayaking, and bush walks. No technology in sight! Read more about the baches here: Rangitoto Island Accommodation – Bach 78 and Bach 114 Islington Bay
- Check prices and availability at Bach 78 Islington Bay
- Check prices and availability at Bach 114 Islington Bay
West Auckland Accommodation:
5. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush – Titirangi
Best for: Zen Bush Escape for 2 Guests, Near Titirangi Village, Tranquil
Snuggle in for an idyllic stay at this beautiful hideaway surrounded by native forest in West Auckland. Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush is a peaceful studio set on a 3000 square metre property with kauri trees and native birds all around and the stunning West Coast beaches close by.
The chalet is a spacious studio with Japanese design elements and includes a comfortable king-size bed, sofa, en-suite with underfloor heating, decks, and nature! Set up more like a hotel room with only a fridge, microwave, hot water jug, and toaster, but all the lovely eateries and cafes in Titirangi Village are close to the chalet.
Local Eateries: Xoong – Asian Fusion; Deco Eatery – Mediterranean Cafe; Iti – bar with amazing burgers; plus Village Kebab, Stripe Cafe, Titirangi Indian Kitchen (vegan available).
Good to Know:
- Adults only – 2 guests
- Free WIFI
- Off-street parking
- Heat pump for winter, air-conditioning in summer
- Check prices and availability at Romantic Sanctuary in the Bush
North Auckland Accommodation:
6. Chalet, Rural Auckland – Puhoi
Best for: Country Holiday Home for 3 Guests, Spa Pool, Swimming Pool, Contemporary, Hiking
A lovely fairy tale cottage on the outside and contemporary on the inside, this Chalet is only 35 minutes from Auckland and is the perfect base for exploring Puhoi, Matakana, the Hibiscus Coast, Orewa, and the Wenderholm Regional Park.
From this recently renovated and stylish chalet, you’re a quick walk to Puhoi Village with the historic Puhoi Pub, General Store, and Cafe, the smallest library in New Zealand, and the intriguing Bohemian Museum. The famous Puhoi Cheese Factory is a quick 3km drive away for delicious meals, cheese tasting, and fine ice cream!
Also, if you have time don’t miss The Sculptureum in Matakana with sculpture-filled gardens, vineyard, six art galleries, wine, and restaurants. If you enjoy walking then hike the Puhoi Lookout Track that takes around 2 hours and is a nice taste of New Zealand’s 3,000km trail, Te Aroroa, that winds through the length of New Zealand.
The Chalet:
At the chalet, the saltwater swimming pool is a winning activity along with relaxing soaks in the spa pool. Recently renovated, the chalet has a bedroom upstairs with a super king-size bed, chaise longue, and balcony, downstairs there’s a fold-out futon (and comfy topper), TV, kitchenette with fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and the tiled bathroom has a large shower.
Good to Know:
- Suitable for up to 3 guests
- The chalet is near the main house
- Guests over 12 years old (babies ok)
- Washing machine in the kitchen
- Check prices and availability at Chalet, Rural Auckland
READ MORE:
- Unique and Boutique Rotorua Accommodation – Luxurious Stays
- Crab Cove: A Luxury Cave Retreat in Northland
- Pagoda Lodge in Kerikeri – Cool Stays!
- Magic Cottages at Takou River in the Beautiful Bay of Islands, Kerikeri
7. The Barn in Riverhead – North West Auckland
Best for: Renovated Barn Holiday Home for 2, Cruise from central Auckland, Farmstay
Take a Boat:
If you want a carefree and carless holiday then why not catch the ferry to The Barn in Riverhead, a beautifully converted 2-level barn set in lovely gardens with native birds, chooks, and beehives. Definitely try the amazing raw honey.
The Red Boats Company operates daily ferries from Auckland to Riverhead. You’ll cruise under the Harbour Bridge, and through the scenic upper Waitemata Harbour to the 150-year-old Riverhead Historic Tavern – the oldest riverside tavern in New Zealand. On this 1.5-hour trip you’ll learn all about the history of the region. Once you arrive at the pub you might like to stop for a refreshing drink and some premium pub fare and then it’s a quick walk to The Barn in Riverhead. FYI: If you’re driving to Riverhead from central Auckland then it’s only a 21-minute trip.
The Barn:
The barn is spacious and thoughtfully furnished with modern interiors that include recycled rimu wooden flooring, wrought iron railing, coloured glass windows, a comfortable lounge and dining, woodburner for colder temperatures, mezzanine bedroom and en-suite, and french doors out to an outdoor covered deck with dining.
What’s Nearby? Hallertau Brewery, Coatesville Market (first Sunday of the month), Catalina Bay Farmers Market (every Saturday and Sunday), Muriwai Beach, and Woodhill Forest.
Good to Know:
- Queen-size bed for two guests – upstairs
- Kitchen with dishwasher, stove, pantry items, oven, toaster, utensils and crockery
- Sky TV, books, games
- Parking on site
- Fresh sourdough available daily (to eat with your raw honey!)
- Check prices and availability at The Barn in Riverhead
8. Silverdale Retreat – Orewa
Best for: Affordable Caravan Stay for 2, Beaches Nearby, Adults-only
Silverdale Retreat offers two warm and comfy caravans with everything you need for a very affordable and peaceful break away on a 2-acre property in Silverdale near Orewa and Red Beach. The caravans are quiet but you’re close to plenty of shops and eateries, Little Manly Beach is only 7kms away.
This is an adult-only bed and breakfast accommodation. Each caravan has a fixed double bed at one end and a lounge at the other. In between, you have the little kitchen with stove, oven, fridge, microwave oven, and kettle. The bathroom has a toilet, basin, and shower. This is definitely one of the more affordable unique places to stay in Auckland!
Good to Know:
- TV, DVD Player
- Outdoor Dining
- Free WIFI
- Outdoor Furniture
- Check prices and availability at Silverdale Retreat
9. Boutique Railway Cabin, in Hunua – Clevedon
Best for: Tiny Railway Cabin for 2, Farmstay, Swimming Pool, Outdoor Bath, BBQ
Southeast of Auckland you’ll find the largest forest in the region, Hunua Ranges Regional Park. And nearby is the cute Meryton Farm Railway Cabin tucked away in this idyllic country setting. This tiny 100-year-old railway cabin is cleverly restored to a restful bijou getaway with stylish furnishings, queen-size bed and quality linen, restored wooden walls and floors, a marble kitchen benchtop, and an outdoor bath for nightly stargazing.
Embrace the country lifestyle with a BBQ on the deck with views across the farmland. The outdoor pool is a great size for exercising and cooling off on hot summer days.
Don’t miss: Clevedon Farmers Market on Sundays, Vin Alto Winery, Suspension Bridge Loop at Hanua Ranges, Hanua Falls, Upper Mangatawhiri Dam
Good to know:
- Sleeps two guests
- Bathroom is in the cabin
- TV, stereo, linen, heating, towels all provided
- Kitchen includes fridge, microwave, cutlery and crockery
- Check prices and availability at Meryton Farm Railway Cabin
10. Fantail Bush Chalet – Parakakau
Best for: Nature Chalet B&B for 2 Guests, Forest Garden Retreat, Near Orewa
With the doors open wide, wake up to the soft sounds of the forest and the songs of native birds in this nature cabin in Parakakau. Only 10kms inland from Orewa, Fantail Bush Chalet is a stylish rustic retreat in a lush forest setting. The bijou cabin includes an ensuite, kitchenette, extra large double bed, and a spacious deck with outdoor furniture. Enjoy the wonderfully delicious breakfast then take a stroll through the forested gardens.
What’s Nearby? Soljans Estate Winery, Little Manly Beach, Orewa Beach, great boutique shopping and restaurant scene in Orewa, Estuary Arts Centre.
Good to Know:
- Free WIFI
- A flat-screen TV with Netflix
- Kitchenette
- Linen, towels, and toiletries included
- 46kms to Auckland Airport, 31kms to central Auckland
- Check availability and prices at Fantail Bush Chalet
East Auckland – Pohutukawa Coast:
11. Coastal Retro Caravan Nights – Beachlands
Best for: Bespoke Caravan for 2, Unique Honeymoon Stay, Beach and Park Location, Romantic
Groovy groovy place to stay in Auckland! Listen to jazz cds, embrace the 60’s vibe and enjoy this romantic and cool little caravan called Claris! Enjoy a blissful getaway at this fab waterfront location in Omana Regional Park on the gorgeous Pohutukawa Coast. With views across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island, stunning shelly beaches, rainforest walks, and clear nights for star watching, this is a unique destination.
Excellent nice little intimate location and stay, absolutely perfect for our wedding night.
Comment by Christine
What’s Nearby? Walk at low tide to Motukaraka Island, swim at Maretai Beach, and enjoy pub grub at The Stables Whitford – a general store transformed into a country pub, Pine Harbour Mariner for a French-inspired country market held every Saturday.
Good to Know:
- Small Regional Park fees apply
- The caravan accommodates 2 adults or 1 adult and 1 child
- Linen, towels, crockery, and cutlery included
- Retro bikes with baskets are available to hire and are highly recommended to explore the park and Beachlands
- Check availability and prices at Coastal Retro Caravan Nights
12. The Boathouse Luxury Accommodation – Shelly Park
Best for: Boutique Holiday Home for 2 Guests, Breakfast, Ride the Cable Car, Luxury Touches
At The Boathouse Luxury Accommodation in Shelly Park, you can lie back in bed and marvel at the ocean views! At this unique place to stay in Auckland, you’ll be treated to luxury at this contemporary seaside retreat. A private cable car transports you through the forest to your boathouse.
Relax on the deck with a cool glass of wine and watch the beautiful sunsets and ocean views. Want to cook at home? There’s also a Weber BBQ for outdoor grilling. Steps from the boathouse lead you to the beach for swimming and kayaks are on offer to explore the ocean and bays.
Good to Know:
- King-size bed with Sheridan linen, Nespresso Coffee Machine, Microwave, luxurious New Zealand-made toiletries, tiled ensuite
- Bose sound system, TV, free WIFI
- Check availability and prices at The Boathouse
Waiheke Island:
13. Boatsheds on the Bay – Waiheke Island
Best for: Mini Resort, Bespoke Boatsheds for 2 Guests, Private Beach, Kayaks
Take a Video Tour Here…
Head to Greece and the Pacific on Waiheke Island in this peaceful and romantic paradise! Boatsheds on the Bay is a little resort with four blue and white boatsheds sitting on the edge of tidal Putiki Bay.
Each beautifully designed boatshed is self-contained and stylish with comfy bedding for two, ensuite with shower and toilet, kitchenette with fridge, small deck, and outdoor seating – all on a private beach. Book an individual cabin or for groups book the whole resort.
Good to Know:
- Each boatshed accommodates two guests
- Free WIFI
- Parking on site
- TV, linen, towels, and toiletries provided
Check Prices and Availability Here:
14. Yurts at the Terraces – Waiheke Island
Best for: Glamping Yurts for 2 Guests, Rainforest Shower, Beach, Views
For a heavenly holiday on Waiheke Island, Papa Yurt on a hill above Palm Beach is a divine stay with a combo of luxury and nature. This five-metre yurt is beautifully furnished with a king-size bed, lounge chairs, and a coffee maker. You also have a deck with deck chairs to relax and enjoy the amazing sea view. You’ll love the rainforest shower next to the yurt.
The white sand beaches of Little Palm Beach and Palm Beach, only a 12-minute walk away, are a must destination for swimming and beachcombing.
The views were amazing and the novelty of staying in a Yurt was fun! Easy to get to public transport which takes you to all the hotspots.
Comment by Amber
What’s Nearby? Head out for wine tasting at Stonyridge, Cable Bay Vineyard, and Mudbrick Restaurant and Vineyard only 3 or 4 kilometres away. Don’t miss award-winning Ecozip Adventures with giant flying fox ziplines whizzing you through the regenerative rainforest.
Good to Know at Papa Yurts:
- Free WIFI
- Free Parking
- Mosquito nets
- Each yurt has its own bathroom
- Stays of 3 nights or more are approximately $200 or less
Check Availability and Prices Here:
The Upshot:
I hope you’ve enjoyed this big list of Cool and Unique Places to Stay in Auckland under $200 night. There’s a quirky and amazing place to stay in every direction so you’ll never run out of holiday ideas!
