New to Auckland Guide

Parnell, Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland

SAE’s Auckland’s campus can be found in the heart of Parnell, a small suburb just out of Auckland’s CBD. Parnell holds particular significance in Māori history. Before British colonisation, this area was known as Puhi-moana, meaning “a sea breeze.” Parnell was a favoured settlement for Māori due to its strategic location near the Waitematā Harbour and fertile surroundings.

The Māori people of Ngāti Whātua were the original inhabitants of this region, cultivating the land and establishing a vibrant community. With the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, Parnell underwent significant changes, leading to both cultural exchange and conflicts. Today, efforts are being made to acknowledge and preserve Māori heritage in Auckland, including Parnell, through cultural initiatives, community engagement, and the recognition of sacred sites. The history of Parnell reflects the ongoing story of cultural resilience and coexistence between the Māori people and later settlers in Auckland.

Auckland Transport

Our campus is about a 5 minute walk from the Parnell train station. You can catch the trains from most suburbs around Auckland. Alternatively there are numerous buses that stop on Parnell Road (just up from campus) including the green Inner Link bus and yellow Outer Link buses.

To use these trains and buses you will need to get an AT Hop card, these can be purchased at certain retailers in Auckland, from the Britomart Transport Centre or online here. With your student ID you will get an AT sticker which will allow you to apply for 50% off transport.

For more info on getting around Auckland click here.

Parking

We don’t recommend driving to campus if you can help it due to lack of parking and parking costs. However, there is parking outside our studios at 18 Heather Street which is free after 6pm on week nights and on the weekends, for those late night assignments and studio slots.

For more info on parking in Parnell click here.

Parnell (SAE Campus)

There are plenty of great food spots around our Parnell campus! Take a walk along Parnell Road for sushi, cafes, fast food and the dairy or pop into Sal’s Pizza, a 2 minute walk from campus on Heather Street.

Food Around Auckland

When it comes to satisfying your dining desires, the city centre offers an abundance of options for every occasion and craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or seeking a luxurious fine dining experience, you’ll find it all right here!

Check out Heart of the City’s Top Cheap Eats in Auckland list here!

Fun Things to do in Auckland

From waterfront karaoke bars to mini-golf, immersive sensory maze adventures, and specialised art-house cinemas, Auckland offers plenty of options to keep yourself thoroughly entertained.

Check out iSchoolConnect’s list of fun things to do in Auckland for students here!

SAE Auckland’s front desk phone number: +64 9 373 4712

New Zealand Dialling Code The dialling code for New Zealand is +64. If calling a New Zealand phone number from overseas, dial the country code “+64” before the phone number you are trying to reach. For example, if you’re trying to reach 12345678910, you will need to dial “+64 12345678910”.

Alternatively, you can use the International Call Prefix, which is “00” instead of the “+”. So to call 12345678910 from overseas, dial “00 64 12345678910”.

Here are some useful phone contacts:

Airport – Ray Emery Drive – 09 275 0789
Britomart Transport Centre – 8-10 Queen Street – 09 366 6400
Citizens Advice Bureau – 1st floor, 44 – 46 Lorne Street – 09 302 3676
City Council – 1 Greys Avenue – 09 301 0101
City Hospital – 2 Park Road, Grafton – 09 367 0000
City Police Headquarters – Cnr Cook and Vincent Streets – 09 302 6400
Dentist – Level 2, 68 Beach Rd – 09 9192660
Fullers Ferry Service – Ferry Terminal, 99 Quay Street – 9 367 9111
Libraries – Location Directory – 09 377 0209
Post Office – 23 Customs St – 0800 501 501
New Zealand Emergency Services – Ambulance, Fire and Police – 111
National Telephone Directory – Telephone Directory Assistance – 018
International Telephone Directory – Telephone Directory Assistance – 0172

SAE Student Support Contacts:

Student Success Advisor
Alex Harter
[email protected]

Student Success Advisor
Ciara Bernstein
[email protected]

Student Success Advisor
Saylene Tanielu-Ulberg
[email protected]

Campus Counsellor
Hanna Cope
[email protected]