Check out these local tips for seeing the best of Auckland at night, from the evening until the early hours.
The Britomart precinct is a popular and stylish place for nightlife in Auckland, with a selection of vibrant new bars and restaurants. Don’t miss Mexico and Ortolana with their beautiful décor and live music down the cobbled lane at Orleans. Catch up with friends over a beer or cocktail at Britomart Country Club, Tyler Street Garage and Northern Steamship Co. until the nightlife heats up at around 10pm, then dance the night away at 1885.
Head to Ponsonby Road for stylish bars and the best dressed in Auckland. Known as Auckland’s hippest strip, Ponsonby has a large range of restaurants and bars for a variety of different tastes. The area’s newest space, Ponsonby Central, is a stylish hub of modern eateries, bars and coffee spots. Dance until the early hours of the morning at Ponsonby Social Club and Revelry, check out live music at Grand Central and The Crib or relax with cocktails and the most fashionable people in town at SPQR and Longroom.
This vibrant area is great for eating out and partying, with a selection of more than 30 exciting bars and restaurants. Classic Auckland nightlife in the Viaduct kicks off around 5pm on a Friday with after-work drinks and also makes for a lively Saturday night. Enjoy a fantastic meal overlooking the water at Euro, followed by a drink at a popular bar such as Soul or Goldfinch. You’re guaranteed to be dancing all night at Snapdragon and Spy Bar, or if pubs are more your thing head to Danny Doolans or O’Hagans Irish Pub for some live music and a pint.
The newest selection of bars and restaurants on Auckland’s waterfront, Wynyard Quarter is full of exciting eateries and modern places to grab a drink, as well as after-dark events for the public. After its urban transformation in 2011, this area is now full of impressive modern architecture, but still embraces its historical maritime location. Head to North Wharf for great cuisine and a drink, and check out Silo Park during summer for night markets and an open air cinema every Friday evening.
When it comes to exciting nightlife, the Auckland CBD is full of hidden treasures. Federal Street and Vulcan Lane both have a great selection of bars and restaurants and Sale Street is always popular for dining, drinking and dancing. Head down High Street and Fort Lane for a range of cool clubs and bars, and check out City Works Depot for local craft beers at the micro brewery and a bite to eat.
At SKYCITY you’ll find an exciting complex of restaurants, bars and more. The casino is open 24 hours a day, complete with live entertainment and VIP areas. The restaurants range from buffets and ethnic food to Peter Gordon’s celebrated new restaurant The Sugar Club. Don’t miss the beautiful 360-degree views of Auckland lit up at night from the revolving restaurant Orbit at the top of the Sky Tower. The centre also holds nine bars, including the luxurious Twentyone and X.O.
For an alternative experience in Auckland, Karangahape Road – more commonly named K’ Road – offers an eclectic mix of bars and clubs and is known as a diverse and creative district. This area is big on events such as dance and DJ gigs and hip hop concerts, together with contemporary art and music events, as well as several gay bars. Catch live concerts and DJs at Studio the Venue and Galatos Bar, dance all night at Family Bar or for something different, enjoy a drink while watching a colourful cabaret or drag artist show.
A mix of lively bars, restaurants and pubs with friendly ambience, Kingsland is widely known by locals as the best place to watch (and celebrate) a rugby game. The area has a selection of ethnic restaurants and is the perfect spot to grab a few beers with friends. Enjoy the social atmosphere and naturally brewed beers at Neighbourhood Brew Bar or catch a game on the big screen TVs at The Kingslander.
The historic and picturesque village of Parnell is full of award-winning restaurants and upmarket bars and cafés. This is a great place to dine or relax with a casual drink among the stunning lit-up trees and cobblestone paths. Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner and wine in the beautiful courtyards of Non Solo Pizza or Portofino, a superb meal at highly acclaimed Antoine’s or head to the Chocolate Boutique or Mövenpick for an indulgent dessert.
