Sunnyvale is located about four kilometres from central Waitakere and 18 kilometres from central Auckland.

Local State primary and secondary schools include Sunnyvale Primary School, Holy Cross, Massey High School, Henderson High School, Liston College, and St Dominic's College. Sunnyvale used to be an orchard and wine growing area in Auckland with West Brook Wines founded there. Neighboring Glendene has a relaxed community feel and contains a shopping complex called Glendene Village, which contains a pharmacy, video store, cake shop, bakery, hair salon and dairy. The suburb also contains service stations, a community centre and fast food restaurants. Parks in the area include Parrs Park, Hepburn Park, which has access to the coast, Tirimoana Reserve and Glendene Reserve. Many homes command stunning views over the hills of the surrounding area. All provide excellent outdoor opportunities for the whole family.

Henderson is nearby and offers a broader range of shops and other commercial activities, while the ranges and west coast beaches remain within an easy travelling distance.