When I was in Auckland this past June I stayed at the "Spencer on Byron Hotel." It was just outside the city center, but was easily accessible by a city bus which got you into the city within five to ten minutes depending on traffic. The rates were reasonable and each room had a bedroom area, living room area, small kitchenette with a fridge, oven and dishwasher, as well as a washer and dryer. It's rated as a 4 1/2 star hotel and the rooms are going for about $119/nt at the moment.