Where to Party in Auckland
One of life’s biggest questions is: where should I go to party in Auckland? And we are here to serve! There’s a whole host of nightclubs in Auckland, from the sophisticated cocktail bars to the shameless early-morning dancing clubs. We list a variety of places on the listicle below!
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, so we’ve made sure our list extends to the nightclubs available outside of the city centre and into the surrounding suburbs – basically, where ever the party is at. After all, there’s more to Auckland than Queen Street.
So head to the places listed below if you are looking to bust some serious moves. Otherwise, take a look at the extent of the Auckland party scene in our Guide to Auckland Nightlife. Plus, find a place to stay at the end of the night in The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland.
1. Danny Doolans
The Irish Bar on the Viaduct Harbour is always a guarantee at the end of the night for some drunken dancing to whatever live band is playing. Look out for the occasional comedy quiz nights too.
Location: Quay Street, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Central
2. Habana Joes
A backpacker bar means backpacker drink prices. Habana Joes should be on every backpacker’s itinerary on a night out in Auckland, whether it’s for cheap drinks at the beginning of the night or for drunken dancing at the end. It’s also a good place to grab some cheap eats too.
Location: Darby Street, Auckland Central
3. Lenin
The vodka bar on Princes Wharf has a distinct Russian theme, as well as plenty of seating for the civilised and a dance floor for the not-so-civilised!
Location: Quay Street, Viaduct Basin
4. Orleans
Need a bit of sophistication for your night out or a bit of diversity? Try Orleans for yummy cocktails mixed with live blues, soul, funk, jazz and regular DJs.
Location: 48 Customs St E, Britomart
5. The Kingslander
There’s always something going on at the Kingslander, whether it’s a sports game viewing, Latin nights, epic burgers, quiz nights and more!
Location: 470 New N Road, Kingsland
6. Ponsonby Social Club
In a suburb so hipster that one of its bars is called “Ponsonby Social Club”, Ponsonby Social Club is a must when having a night out in this cool little suburb of Auckland. Live music and DJs are here regularly so round up the gang and get yourself to Ponsonby!
Location: 152 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
7. Snapdragon
Snapdragon brings the glitz and glam to the Viaduct Harbour with its ideal setting overlooking the harbour and the people stumbling about in the streets below. By day, it’s a nice place to get a cocktail, by night, things liven up for some dancefloor action.
Location: Quay Street, Viaduct Harbour
8. Studio the Venue
Get your tickets to some international and local live shows at Studio The Venue on K Road. With a venue full of raging fans, you know you’re in for a good time and pumping atmosphere.
Location: 340 Karangahape Road, Newton
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.