Under $100: Auckland

Located on the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most populous city. It is also one of the more expensive cities in the country, so follow these tips to make the most of your 130 New Zealand Dollars.

Auckland is a big city with lots of things to do in the surrounding suburbs. It is also very car-dependent, but the public transportation is extensive enough you won’t have to spend much on taxis. For 16 NZD, you can buy an AT HOP day pass for 24-hour access to the city’s trains, buses and ferries.

If you happen to be in South Auckland on a Saturday, the Otara Markets are a good place to start your day. Open from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., this is a great place to get a filling meal for less than 10 NZD. Meat pies are New Zealand’s iconic snack, and there are plenty of stalls selling bacon, egg and steak pies that are perfect for breakfast. Finish it off with some fresh cut fruit, a sweet island doughnut and a coffee to dunk it in. The market also showcases a wide range of Polynesian culture through various vendors and cultural performances.

For history buffs, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is a great place to learn about New Zealand. Its neo-classicist architecture makes it one of the city’s most iconic buildings, and it contains a rich collection of exhibits on military history, natural sciences and the region’s indigenous people known as the Māori. Admission is slightly expensive at 25 NZD, with additional packages that include tours and cultural performances. For a museum that doesn’t hurt the wallet, try the Auckland Art Gallery, which is free for general admission. The gallery houses an extensive collection of national and international art, including the famous Māori portraits by Gottfried Lindauer.

Close by, within walking distance, is Depot, located on Federal Street and created by celebrity chef Al Brown. Located in Auckland’s burgeoning restaurant, bar and nightlife scene, it is a great place to grab some dinner before going out for the night. Depot is primarily a seafood eatery, complete with a fresh raw bar, but the menu has an eclectic collection of dishes including chicken, pork and beef. The prices aren’t cheap, with entrees ranging from 15 to 35 NZD, but it’s a great local favorite that exemplifies Auckland’s foodie culture.