We did the LA to Sydney segment this past Jan. and finally got to Auckland at the end of our land journey...We stayed at the Hilton in Auckland for 3 nights--mixed feelings about the place. Location is right on the water--literally. You will feel like you are back on the ship--the hotel is out on the pier and the balconies hang out over the water. Great views of ferries and freighters coming and going. However, if you are unlucky and a ship is docked right in front of your room, you will see nothing! And it is a pricey hotel, rooms are nothing special. If I had known, we would have booked a B and B in Devonport, a much nicer area just a 10 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Look at tripadvisor.com for specific suggestions for other Auckland hotels.
One of the highlights of our trip was our stay on Waiheke Island, a 35 minute trip by ferry from Auckland. We stayed at the Giverny B and B--a most luxurious and relaxing place with outstanding breakfasts, fabulous views. Try to get over to Waiheke if you can.

Wish I could do the trip all over again!

Susan