Another review stated very similar views

Stayed 2 nights then another night

Eclectic B& B close to central Auckland

Hosts very informative and lent us loads of material

Got to understand a lot more about New Zealand

Felt more like a family guest

Went out of their way including making sure we had somewhere to park

The Braemar on Parliament Street is a four room B&B (one room is a large suite, one room has an en suite bathroom, and the remaining two share a bathroom) in a historic building in the Auckland central business district. Note that "historic" buildings in New Zealand were built in the early 1900s; not the 1700s or 1800s as in Europe or the US, so the Braemar has been furnished in the late Victorian style, but is not a Victorian! (The exterior is stucco in need of a paint job.)

Located half a block from Auckland University and within walking distance of both Auckland Domain and the waterfront, the Braemar is has an excellent location for tourists and those attending conferences at Auckland University. Most people staying there during my trip were retired British or American tourists as the Braemar is quite expensive, even relative to nice hotels in the city center.

The rooms that share a bathroom have small sinks, but are are quite small and have inadequate space for more than one person traveling with one suitcase, unless you unpack fully into the dresser (e.g., there is not enough space to live out of your suitcase). The shared rooms on the upper floor also have a lot of noise from the large student apartments which look into the upper floors, from the street, and from outdoor functions at the University during summer months. The Batten Suite, though on the upper floor, looks out the other side of the building and is also slightly quieter. The en suite room on the bottom floor is much quieter.

The upstairs shared bathroom is extremely large, with a claw foot tub, an exceptionally large shower, and a skylight, but could be cleaner. I found several hairs in the bathtub (and I was the first to use it after the bathroom had been cleaned that day), and the lack of hand soap was indicative of the general state of cleanliness. There is a small library over the toilet.

The breakfast consists of breads, fruit salad, assorted cereals and muesli, fresh yogurt, and some kind of juice served buffet style from the sideboard in a large, airy dining room with a view of Auckland harbor. If you request it, they will also cook a small-portioned (by American standards) hot English breakfast with your eggs, bacon, and other goodies.

On-street parking is difficult (and may require a permit during the day). The Air Bus stops a one minute walk away, and the free City Circuit bus is a five minute walk, so there is no need to drive into town.

Since the rooms come in two price tiers (the Batten Suite vs the other rooms which are all the same price), I would only stay here again if I someone else were paying, and I could get the room with the private bathroom. Otherwise, the Braemar (while charming and full of character) is just too expensive relative to what you get. Those searching for a "true" B&B experience may want to look to the Auckland suburbs, since there is no way to escape the city noise in the middle of the Auckland CBD.

Simply the best start to our holiday possible! Staying at Braemar, with Susan as our host, was a refreshing, relaxing and informative experience. Beautifully decorated and furnished, fabulous breakfast and Susan makes a very good brew.
The location is a five minute walk from the centre, so perfect for exploring Auckland. It is also just by the bus route from the airport - very convenient.
NIck and Teresa

My friend and I were walking through Auckland - when we spotted this remarkable building. This wonderfully restored Edwardian home is a Bed and Breakfast. The owners, John and Susan, are warm and make your stay as comfortable as possible. Our Batten suite was divine.
The accomodation had both period touches and modern luxuries. The bed was so comfortable. There were so many nice touches - from the robes/slippers to a cd player and satellite tv. I loved the lavender bath products and the claw foot tub!

We had a sumptuous breakfast each morning. John and Susan are wonderful hosts and told us about a concert in the park - that made our last night in Auckland memorable.
I miss being escorted down Parliament street by their two poodles each day. I hope to stay there again!