Things To Do
in Northcote

Northcote is a charming suburb located on the North Shore of Auckland, New Zealand. It offers stunning views over the Waitematā Harbour and is known for its vibrant community and diverse culture. Northcote features a mix of residential areas, parks, and local businesses, making it an attractive destination for visitors seeking a local experience.

The suburb is well connected to the city center, providing easy access to Auckland's attractions while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Northcote
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café such as the 'Pine Cone Café', known for its fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Northcote Shopping Centre for some local retail therapy followed by a stroll through the nearby Northcote Domain, where you can enjoy the green space.

evening
:

Dine at 'The Glasshouse', a popular restaurant offering modern New Zealand cuisine, and finish the evening with a sunset view at the Northcote Point.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty brunch at 'Little & Friday', famous for its delicious brunch items and baked goods.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic walk along the coastline at the nearby Takapuna Beach, enjoying the stunning views of Rangitoto Island.

evening
:

Explore Northcote's local pubs, such as 'The Vic', for a lively atmosphere and live music to wrap up your trip.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee (café)$4.50
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20.00
🍕Takeaway pizza$15.00
🚌Public transport ticket$3.00
🏨Night in a budget hotel$120.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal views and parks.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Rich cultural experiences and activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Auckland.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in off-peak hours.
  • Some areas may feel isolated without a car.
  • "Kia ora" - Hello
  • "Tēnā koa" - Please
  • "Ngā mihi" - Thank you
  • "Haere mai" - Welcome
  • "Ka kite anō" - See you again

Places to Visit in Northcote

Visit one of these nice places.

Northcote Point

A fantastic viewpoint overlooking the Auckland skyline and Waitematā Harbour, perfect for sunset photography.

Takapuna Beach

A picturesque beach with sandy shores and stunning views of Rangitoto Island, ideal for capturing scenic shots.

Northcote Domain

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, native flora, and playful wildlife, a great spot for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Northcote

Northcote offers a delightful culinary scene with a variety of local and international flavors. From fresh seafood to unique fusion dishes, there's something for every palate.

Northcote Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

A classic Kiwi dish featuring freshly caught fish, battered and fried, served with crispy fries.

Must-Try!

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruits and whipped cream, representing New Zealand's baking tradition.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Northcote Food Market

A vibrant market held on weekends offering fresh produce, artisan products, and street food from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Northcote experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during winter months. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially during the transitional seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Kiwis take pride in their natural environment; be mindful to leave no trace when enjoying outdoor spaces.

Politeness

Being polite and friendly is important; greetings and small talk are common when interacting with locals.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations; Kiwis value personal space and privacy.

Safety Guide

Safety

Northcote is generally safe for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. Keep valuables out of sight, especially in public spaces, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Always follow local advice regarding safety in outdoor areas, such as beaches and parks, and be aware of potential hazards like strong currents while boating or swimming.

Tipping in Northcote

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common; ensure to have some cash for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer features warm weather and is perfect for beach outings, water sports, and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be chilly and rainy; it's a good time for indoor activities, café hopping, and enjoying local art.

Nightlife Guide

Northcote at Night

Northcote's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of pubs, bars, and live music venues. The local scene is relaxed, with many establishments featuring live performances, especially on weekends. Expect to find a blend of casual and upscale venues, catering to a variety of tastes. Popular spots include 'The Vic' for its lively atmosphere and 'The Glasshouse' for a more upscale night out.

Hiking in Northcote

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Victoria

A short drive from Northcote, this hike offers stunning panoramic views of Auckland and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Rangitoto Island

A ferry ride away, the hike to the summit of Rangitoto Island provides breathtaking views and unique volcanic landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Northcote by plane.

Auckland Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from Northcote, Auckland Airport is the largest airport in New Zealand, providing both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Northcote is quite walkable, with many amenities located within walking distance, including shops, cafes, and parks. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are pedestrian crossings at major intersections. The suburb's layout encourages walking, making it easy to explore the local area at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Northcote is home to many families drawn to the area's parks, schools, and community activities.

Young Professionals

There is a growing population of young professionals who enjoy the suburb's proximity to the city and local amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a major sport in New Zealand, with many local clubs and community events focused on the sport.

Cricket

Cricket is also popular, with local leagues and matches being a common social activity in parks and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Northcote can be moderate, especially during peak hours when commuting to and from the Auckland city center. Public transportation options include buses that connect to the city and surrounding suburbs, with regular services throughout the day. However, it is advisable to check schedules, as services may be less frequent during weekends and evenings.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Northcote.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options and are accommodating to dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free dishes can be found in various cafes and restaurants; it's advisable to inform staff about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Northcote is good, with several medical centers and pharmacies available. For emergencies, Auckland City Hospital is a short drive away and provides comprehensive services. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Discover New Zealand

Read more in our New Zealand 2025 Travel Guide.

New Zealand Travel Guide