Vintage Vibes: Discovering Timeless Parnell
Auckland’s Heritage Heart — and a Perfect Stop on the Double Decker Discovery Tour
Auckland is often called the City of Sails — but it could just as easily be the City of Stories. And nowhere tells those stories quite like Parnell, one of Auckland’s oldest and most character-filled suburbs. With its cobbled lanes, boutique galleries, heritage villas, and leafy streets, it feels like stepping back into a gentler era — a world where craftsmanship, character, and community matter more than glass towers or fast trends.
And for our guests aboard the Vintage Views Double Decker Discovery, Parnell is one of the highlights of the journey — a living postcard from Auckland’s past that perfectly complements the charm of our lovingly restored 1964 London Routemaster bus, Dorothy.
🕰️ A Neighbourhood Where the Past Meets the Present
Nestled just east of Auckland’s bustling downtown, Parnell Village began in the 1840s as one of the city’s first suburbs. Today, many of those early timber villas still stand — restored into galleries, cafés, and boutique stores that exude a quiet, nostalgic elegance.
Wander its streets (or gaze down from the upper deck of our Routemaster) and you’ll spot:
Historic timber villas turned into design stores, flower shops, and artisan cafés.
St Mary’s Church, one of New Zealand’s finest examples of wooden Gothic Revival architecture.
The Parnell Rose Gardens, where thousands of blooms frame harbour views — a truly photogenic stop.
Auckland War Memorial Museum, sitting proudly atop the Auckland Domain — visible from many points on our route.
It’s not just a neighbourhood; it’s a feeling — a vintage soul that mirrors the character of our bus itself.
🚌 “Vintage Views” Meets “Vintage Parnell”
There’s something poetic about a vintage London bus winding its way past Parnell’s century-old villas. The gentle rumble of the engine, the timber façades, the scent of coffee and roses — it all feels perfectly in sync.
Our Double Decker Discovery tour captures this connection beautifully. In about 90 minutes, we trace Auckland’s story — from its modern waterfront skyline to the heritage heart of Parnell — offering the perfect blend of then and now.
Here’s how Parnell fits into our scenic loop:
Depart Queen & Customs St – just steps from the cruise ship terminals.
Viaduct Harbour – see the sparkling marina and waterfront dining scene.
Auckland Domain & Museum – grand, historic, and unmissable.
Parnell Village – Auckland’s oldest and most picturesque suburb.
Harbour Bridge Crossing – panoramic skyline views from up top.
Return to the Waterfront – ending right where you started, relaxed and inspired.
It’s the kind of sightseeing loop that doesn’t just show you Auckland — it lets you feel it.
🌹 What to See & Do in Parnell
If you decide to spend more time here (and we recommend it), Parnell rewards the curious explorer. Some local favourites include:
Rosie Café – tucked beside the Rose Gardens; a local institution.
Exhibitions at Black Door Gallery – showcasing NZ contemporary art and glasswork.
Chocolate Boutique Café – a Parnell classic, known for rich desserts and velvet hot chocolate.
Parnell Baths – historic salt-water pools overlooking the harbour (dating back to 1914).
The Parnell Trust Markets – for handmade gifts and artisan products.
And yes — if you’re taking the Double Decker Discovery, you’ll get a superb overview of this district from the upper deck before deciding where to linger later.
🚍 Why Vintage Views Loves Parnell
At Vintage Views, we built our brand around stories — about preserving the charm of the past and showcasing the best of Auckland with personality, humour, and heart.
That’s why Parnell resonates so strongly with us. It’s the kind of place that embodies the same timeless spirit as our bus Dorothy:
Classic but comfortable.
Stylish without being showy.
Authentic, warm, and deeply local.
Every loop of the Double Decker Discovery through Parnell feels like a celebration of that vintage heritage — a reminder that travel isn’t just about getting somewhere; it’s about rediscovering the joy of the journey.
🎟️ Experience It for Yourself
You don’t have to be a history buff to fall in love with Parnell — or with Vintage Views. Join us on the Double Decker Discovery and experience Auckland’s past and present in one effortless, beautiful journey.
📍 Departures: Corner of Queen & Customs St (outside the Mövenpick Hotel)
🕓 Tour length: ~90 minutes
💰 Tickets: Book online — adults $49 NZD, children $29 NZD
📞 Contact: info@vintageviews.co.nz
🌆 The Final Word
Vintage Parnell. Vintage Bus. Vintage Views.
Some things never go out of style — and our lovingly restored Routemaster touring through Auckland’s heritage streets is proof of that. Whether you’re a cruise guest, a local exploring your city anew, or a visitor chasing a taste of old-world charm, Vintage Views offers a journey unlike any other.
Hop On Hop Off… Without the Off.
Because the best way to experience Auckland is to stay onboard and let the stories roll by.