Three Brothers is definitely one of the best hardware shops in Auckland, primarily because it has a big range of items, many of them not kept in stock by the big chains(e.g they have a big range of coloured Hardi-Glaze), and all priced very well. Their prices are generally 10% or so cheaper than other places. They also have a stock of off cuts, which can be good for those fiddly little jobs where you just need a small amount of wood. The one thing that always drives me a bit nuts here is that they won’t cut wood for you while you wait; you have to book it in. That can be a pain if you’re not working or living nearby, especially if you want to go and look at things first rather than just make a phone order. They also sell a big range of mistints/end of line paints imported from America at ridiculously cheap prices.