Great start for a trip to New Zealand
The Airedale Hotel is a great find. It's near the university part of Auckland and there are lots of great restaurants and shops. Convenient and reasonably priced internet access right across the street. It's not right in the heart of touristy Auckland but it's convenient to everything you'd want to see. The price is reasonable and my room included a kitchen/living room and a separate sleeping room that can be closed off. The breakfast buffet was sensational. Every single person was incredibly helpful and friendly.
If (should I say when) I return to Auckland, I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again, and again, and again.