Nightlife

A brand new bar concept has opened up in Snickel Lane. And we're stunned. 

Hidden away on Mills Lane is a brand new speakeasy-style cocktail bar punctuated with sleek blue neon—Quinn.

Parasol & Swing just got an enigmatic younger sister and she can sure handle a shaker. 

If fine wine luxury's a bit of you (it is), you'll want to head to The College Hill Wine Room by David Nash, glass-first. 

Tucked away just off Karangahape Road is a boutique hotel known as Abstract. As its name suggests, Abstract brings a fresh perspective to the local hotel scene (and staycays) standing out from the crowd not least due to its tasteful theatre-inspired aesthetic. 

It’s impossible to miss the giant neon-lit tiger as you wander up Durham Street West. The glowing cat signals a departure from your daily—cross the threshold and you’ll find yourself in Hazy Tiger, a trippy wonderland of Korean eats and sip-worthy libations. 

Sarah Macdonald has a grounding energy about her. Astonishing given she’s the co-founder of not one but three eateries—an impressive feat in any climate but especially so in the current economy. 

Rising from the proverbial ashes of the old Conch digs, Nami Record Bar might just be your next favourite hangout. It’s certainly one of ours. 

A brand new, multi-million dollar, totally immersive experience created by Hollywood set designers has opened in Auckland CBD.

With "Oceanic eats. Drink. Party." as its slogan, you can bet that Lulu Bar is the place to go in Te Aro for a fun time. With nods to the flavours and traditional techniques from Hawaii to Aotearoa, your tastebuds will be swept across the pacific with a menu that draws inspiration from the islands.

As soon as you step through the classy, sliding doors at voco Auckland City Centre hotel you know you’re in for a treat. Found midway up Wyndham Street this towering behemoth in the heart of downtown Auckland sits proudly as an oasis from the bustling streets.

Very few things rival the wholesome feeling that comes with stumbling upon a wine bar. The intrigue of wall-to-floor bottles, hiding from the world in a cosy nook, discovering drops by the glass. The possibilities are endless—and that’s before you so much as glance over the bites menu or later prance out the door, with a new favourite bottle under your arm. 

Just when you thought there was no way you could love Karangahape Road's lush Spanish/Latin American inspired eatery and wine bar Candela more than you do already, they go and open macking new bar and balcony Barcita. Follow the bar to the back of the restaurant and you'll find this cute-as-a-button space awaiting you with open arms. With a separate bar and tapas menu, nab yourself a pozzie in the open air with views of the Sky Tower. If you fancy the space all to yourself—we don't blame you—you can also hire it for your exclusive use and private events seven days a week. Schmick.

There's a new bar in town from the folks behind Viaduct fave, Parasol & Swing. Taking up residence on the spot that was formerly Little Easy, The Broken Lantern is slinging craft beers, organic and natural wines, insane cocktails and a next-level food menu (if you've dined at Parasol & Swing, you'll know just how incredible their grub is).

In the spot that formerly housed Bonita, The Tinted Rose's excellent cocktail and tapas game has been strong since its inception in 2019. By day the space opens out into a well-lit haven with bright windows looking onto Summer Street and an enviable sun trap of a garden in the back. By night, let the cosy vibes of a late-night drinking den envelop you as you sip on masterful cocktail creations and their back garden transforms under a canopy of sparkling lights.

Once tucked away in St Kevin's Arcade, Japanese late-night fave Acho's has a new spot front and centre on Karangahape Road and to say it's cool would be an understatement.