Parnell Road

Parnell Road rises up and away from the eastern quarter of the central business district. Auckland's oldest settled and now very wealthy suburb, many pockets retain a quaint village atmosphere with brick courtyards and olde worlde shops. Parnell also has its flashy side - slick motors are seen cruising car parks outside the city's most expensive restaurants. Fear not, a sensibly priced latte or lunch in a sidewalk café is never far away. More conservative designer fashion stores sit alongside beautiful home wares and unique hand craft shops. Prices are generally high but so is the quality. For a true budget blowout, visit one of the fine art galleries dotted along the rise. Parnell's charm draws ordinary locals and visitors to window shop, and wealthier folk to actually draw out their credit cards. Former United States President, Bill Clinton enjoyed a tour around Parnell when here for the APEC summit.