Parnell, Auckland

Parnell is a highly affluent suburb of Auckland. It consistently ranks among the top three wealthiest suburbs in the country and is often touted as Auckland's "oldest suburb" due to its establishment during the early days of European settlement in Auckland, dating back to 1841. Parnell boasts a diverse landscape with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and scenic hills offering views of the port, Waitematā Harbour, Rangitoto Island, and Auckland Domain. It's bordered by Auckland Domain to the west, Newmarket to the south, and Ports of Auckland to the north.

The primary thoroughfares in Parnell are Parnell Rise and Parnell Road. Parnell Rise connects to the central business district in the west, while Parnell Road ascends from Parnell Rise to the highest point in the suburb and then sharply bends, continuing towards Newmarket in the southeast. Parnell Road concludes at the intersection of George and Sarawia Streets, where it transforms into Broadway. In the early days of European settlement, Parnell Road was known as "Manukau Road" until the establishment of Khyber Pass Road in 1845.

Parnell is renowned for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and dining establishments. Parnell Road boasts an array of options, including French bistros and elegant chocolate cafes. The suburb also features well-maintained footpaths and bike trails that traverse the parklands of the Auckland Domain. Within the Domain, visitors can explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which focuses on topics like volcanoes and Maori history, as well as the Domain Wintergardens, where exotic plant species are on display. For those seeking relaxation, Parnell Baths offers a bayside complex with a spacious saltwater pool.