Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Karangahape Road, commonly known as "K Road", is one of Auckland's most famous and vibrant streets located in the heart of the city. It was named one of the ‘The world’s coolest streets in 2022’ by Time Out. This street is known for its diverse cultural, artistic and vibrant atmosphere, as well as being Auckland's main LGBTQ+ district. K Road is also home to a huge variety of stores, restaurants (voted some of the best in the world), bars, and cafes that cater to locals and visitors alike. Whether you are looking for a night out, a place to shopp, or simply want to explore the area, K Road has something for everyone.  

One of the most noticeable things about K Road is its vibrant street art, which is a testament to the creativity of the local artists. From murals to graffiti, you'll find a colourful array of artwork on the walls of buildings and alleyways that make the street come alive. The street art adds a fun and lively atmosphere to the area, making it a popular spot for visitors and photographers alike. 

Shopping is also a big part of the K Road experience, with a wide variety of unique and independent shops to choose from. Whether you are looking for vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you'll find it here. The street is also home to several bookstores, record stores, and specialty shops that offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. Some of the locals’ favourites for vintage shopping are Smoove, Red Cross, Auckland City Mission, and Paper Bag Princess; you never know what you will find there, and you can often snag some designer pieces for almost nothing.  

For foodies, K Road is a must-visit, with a range of restaurants and cafes offering cuisine from all over the world. From Japanese, Thai, Turkish to French, Italian, South American, there are plenty of options for both casual and fine dining—and everything in between! Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the bustling street life while you dine. Some of the standouts are the vibrant institution of Coco’s Cantina and the delicious Malaysian food from Sri Penang (voted one of the best eateries in the world by Condé Nast Traveller Magazine). 

The street is also home to several bars, live music venues and nightclubs making it a popular spot for a night out. Whether you want to dance the night away or simply relax with a drink while listening to music, K Road is the perfect place to unwind. The Wine Cellar, Whammy Bar, Galatos and Neck of the Woods are popular for music-lovers with everything from acoustic folk gigs to boisterous DJ sets. Family Bar and Ink Bar are among the favourites to dance your way into the early morning.  

Another cultural highlight of K Road is the St. Kevin's Arcade, which is a historic building that was built in 1924. This beautiful building is home to a collection of shops and artists' studios, restaurants and music venues. It's a popular spot for visitors to browse, shop and dine. The Arcade is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in Auckland's cultural heritage. 

K Road is home to some amazing tattoo parlours in the region—so if you're looking for some fresh ink (or just want to look at some great art), check out Dreams Hands Tattoo Studio, The Tattoed Heart and Sunset Tattoo. 

Whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to add this iconic street to your Auckland itinerary and experience all that it has to offer!