Auckland isn't representative of NZ, remember that. A lot of Kiwi's say that New Zealand stops at the Bombay Hills (just short of Auckland) and call Aucklanders (jokingly) 'JAFAs' - just another fucking Aucklander =P.
It's our big smoke but it's a bit different from the rest of New Zealand in terms of culture.
As far as supermarkets go if you want to find the lowest prices go to Pak'n'Slave but the other supermarkets are a bit more nicely presented (same stuff though).
Also there should be no complaints about the food, especially if you like meat. Especially if you like lamb.