Where to Go for a Drink in Auckland
Auckland is usually the first place backpackers arrive after an excruciatingly long flight. We think that deserves a responsible amount of alcoholic beverages. To pick out a good spot for a full-on party night or a quiet drink, we have compiled a list of awesome bars in Auckland.
From backpacker bars to historic pubs, we’ve tried to cover all bases with this list of bars in Auckland. But remember, New Zealand is pretty strict on valid ID to purchase alcohol, so have a look at What ID is Valid for Buying Alcohol in New Zealand?
After a wild night out, get to your Auckland accommodation or flat safely with Auckland Cab Fare: Taxi Prices in Auckland. For a complete guide with less pretty pictures, visit: Guide to Auckland Nightlife.
1. Cassette 9
Home of the teapots and backpacker nights. Every Tuesday, be in with the chance of winning a skydive, bungy jump, rafting and bus pass in the raffle! There are other themed nights, such as Saturday Sick Disco and Wednesday Teenage Kicks, as well as local indie bands and DJs.
Location: 9 Vulcan Lane, just off Queen Street.
© Cassette 92. Danny Doolans
The token Irish bar. As a great Irish bar should, it has great live music. There is a live act every night from 8.30pm, so there is no excuse to miss out. Danny Doolans is your best late-night choice on the Auckland Viaduct.
Location: 204 Quay Street, Auckland Viaduct.
© Pexels3. Snapdragon
Not only does it have a cool name, but this bar has a classy 1930s vintage style. There are two levels to enjoy: the top level where the party happens overlooking the Viaduct Harbour and the ground floor lounge and main bar area. Make sure to sample a tasty cocktail and check out the live DJ sets.
Location: 204 Quay Street, Auckland Viaduct
© Pixabay4. Ponsonby Social Club
There’s always some kind of live performance from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Otherwise, you can enjoy a pint with friends in a rather classy spot.
Location: 152 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
© Pexels5. Blue Stone Room
The oldest commercial building in the city centre, the Blue Stone Room is truly a hidden gem. Find it down a back alley off Queens Street. Book early if you’re keen on the popular quiz night!
Location: 9-11 Durham Lane, off Queen Street.
© Blue Stone Room6. Studio the Venue
A multi-level bar and live music venue in one. Replace crowded concert hall floors and awesome music with a comfortable bar and awesome music.
Location: 340 Karangahape Road, also known as K’ road.
© Pexels7. Northern Steamship
As a Mac’s Brewbar (one of New Zealand’s famous beers), you can taste from a selection of Mac’s beers on tap. Plus, the bar defies the laws of gravity by having floor lamps hanging from the ceiling.
Location: 122 Quay St, Britomart.
© NZPocketGuide.com8. The Kingslander
Feels like a local pub; looks like a bit like a greenhouse, The Kinglander is a go-to for events happening at Eden Park. The pub and the upstairs function room also host their own music, dance classes and comedy events.
Location: 470 New North Road, Kingsland.
© Kingslander[CLOSED] The Camel Bar
A backpacker bar with reasonably priced drinks and food. Plus, it is the first stop on the Frenzi Bar Crawl every Thursday night! Only NZ$10 for four bars and four drinks. It also features on our Cheap Eats in Auckland.
Location: 38 Fort Street.
© Pexels[CLOSED] Hello Sunshine
Up a lift and through a hostel, you wouldn’t expect to meet the glory of a rooftop bar with an incredible view of the Sky Tower! A hidden gem worth finding.
Location: Base Backpackers, 4 Darby Street, Queen Street
© NZPocketGuide.com[CLOSED] Bungalow 8
The tropics come to Auckland in Bungalow 8! With palm trees, tropical plants and raving fish in tanks, Bungalow 8 gets 10/10 for creativity. Resident DJs play electro and house.
Location: Corner of Market Place & Customs Street West, near the Auckland Viaduct.
