The Top 3 Underdog Suburbs in East Auckland (In My Opinion)

When people talk about East Auckland’s hottest spots, they usually jump straight to the usual suspects—Howick, Bucklands Beach, Sunnyhills. But there are a few suburbs quietly flying under the radar that deserve a lot more credit. Here are my top three.

1. East Tamaki

It may not be the flashiest suburb, but East Tamaki punches well above its weight. Sitting just minutes from both Botany Town Centre and Ormiston Town Centre, it’s incredibly convenient. It’s also home to more than 2,000 businesses, making it one of New Zealand’s largest commercial hubs. Add to that the fact that many homes sit within the Botany Downs Secondary College zone, and you’ve got a suburb that’s far more appealing than most people realise.

2. Pakuranga

Pakuranga isn’t a show-off suburb, but it’s one of the most well-rounded. You’ve got shopping, parks, great schools, and even access to local beaches. And with the new flyover coming in, getting around East Auckland is about to get a whole lot easier. Pakuranga offers that perfect balance between lifestyle and location—without the price tag of the coastal hotspots.

3. Mellons Bay

Yes, Mellons Bay is on the fancier side—but it’s still underrated. Some of the country’s most impressive homes are tucked away here, especially the clifftop properties with unreal views. The suburb is also majority zoned for Macleans College, the East Auckland equivalent of the Double Grammar Zone. For families or buyers wanting prestige, privacy, and top-tier schooling, Mellons Bay is a gem hiding in plain sight.