This place is ideal for a long or short stay in Auckland. Thomas is an excellent host, he responded promptly to messages and was really helpful. The accommodation is comfortable and well equiped.
It's less than 5 minutes walk from the bus and metro station. We stayed a month and bought AT hop cards for getting around (the equivalent of Oyster in London). We had a car and were able to travel west and north to the coast and wine areas, but a car is not essential. You can get the train into town to visit museums and art galleries, and catch ferries from the harbour to Devonport and Hauriki Gulf islands. Our particular favourite was Rotoroa Island.