Auckland bars have something to prove when it comes to customer service, and that’s offering visitors some of the best bar treatment they can expect while they are in the city.

From the shaggy pubs of old based on our English heritage, to the new age of cocktail and whiskey bars in town, Auckland bars make sure there’s plenty of fun to be had come evening time. Wanting to snuggle up somewhere sensual on a date? Dance the night away with a new group of mates? Kick back and watch the rugby somewhere? Whatever your night entails, Auckland bars will make sure it gets off to a great start with an atmosphere to match any event. 

Big on craft beers, wines made local and cocktails with a twist, the best thing about heading out in a big city is the sheer amount of choice and variation when it comes to watering holes. There’s secret bars at mystery locations for those only in the know, or big bustling crowd favourites where there’s always room for one more at the table. If you didn’t know anyone before you walked into an Auckland bar, you’re almost certainly going to leave with a new friend or two, the super city makes sure no-one goes unwelcomed.

The Best Bars in Auckland

Two women sitting behind a screen at a table inside a darkly lit restaurant.
From rooftop wine bars with harbour views to underground yakitori dens and true neighbourhood locals, these are the Auckland bars worth crossing town for.

Queens Rooftop & Wine Shop

Rooftop tables looking out over the Waitematā at Queens Rooftop
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At the back of Queens Wine Shop, behind shelves lined with bottles from near and far, you’ll find a private lift waiting to take you 21 floors up.

CURIO

Lit back bar lined with shelves of curios at CURIO
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CURIO cocktail bar (formerly Little Culprit) has had a full change of character.

Pici Pasta

Entrance of Pici Pasta in Auckland with people dining outside in the arcade
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Pasta fiends unite; you simply can’t miss a meal at Auckland institution, Pici.

Bodega

Exterior view of Ponsonby's Bodega.
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In the heart of Auckland’s Ponsonby, Bodega brings a fresh spin to the classic neighbourhood deli.

Norma Taps

A man and woman chatting to a staff member at the counter at Norma Taps in Auckland.
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Sustainability and creativity combine at Norma Taps, an innovative space making its home in Auckland’s City Works Depot.

Bar Magda

A wooden sign with information on Bar Magda, Auckland.
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Tucked away on Karangahape Road is Bar Magda.

Bar Martin

Birdseye view of busy Bar Martin with lots of customers in Auckland.
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After a long week, there’s something extremely comforting about pulling up to your local for a pint.

Apero Food and Wine

Diners seated in the long brick-walled dining room at Apero Food and Wine, Auckland.
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Apero has quickly cemented itself as one of the coolest little wine bars in the city.

Where to Find the Cosiest Cocktails This Winter

A man making a cocktail.
From speakeasy hideaways to heritage hotel bars, here are the cosiest cocktail spots to crowd into this winter across Aotearoa New Zealand. Settle in by the fire, slip downstairs into a low-lit nook, or perch at the bar while the rain does its thing outside.

Ponsonby Central

Exterior view of Ponsonby Central from the lane entrance.
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There are a tonne of fresh and hip eateries and cafés hidden within, that tantalise with their extensive menus.

Freida Margolis

Alcohol in a shelf inside.
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A fine establishment full of colour and character with a penchant for the drink.

Ortolana

Exterior front sign of Ortolana.
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This inner-city Britomart offering is nothing short of brilliant.

Pineapple on Parnell

Artwork on wall by green leather booth.
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Prepare to be seduced by the old world charm behind the door at Pineapple.

Perch

Curtains in the restaurant.
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Well worth a visit for its impressive dumplings and cocktail lineup.