
Auckland constitutes 32 percent of New Zealand’s population. It is classified as a ‘Beta World City because of its importance in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, education, and tourism.
If you plan to visit the biggest city in New Zealand, here are the hot bars where you can enjoy some of the best drinks after a long day of shopping and sightseeing.
Table of Contents
Best Bars to Enjoy Drinks in Auckland
1. Orleans Bar

- Location: 48 Customs St E, Britomart, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-309 5854
If you are looking for the coolest bars in Auckland, Orleans is one of the best. It also has a great restaurant and serves as a performance venue in the city, where you can come down to have a drink and listen to some great live music.
One of the best bars, this bar’s Music Ranges from jazz to blues and soul. The music at this bar will teleport you to New Orleans, a cultural hub of the United States with warm weather and hot music. Visit Orleans and have a cocktail while listening to some fantastic live music.
2. The Basement Theatre Bar

- Location: Lower Greys Street, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-309 7433
The Basement is Auckland’s culture-defining powerhouse – home to an artistic mixtape of theatre makers, dancers, visual artists, poets, musicians, comedians, and everyone.
It is one of Auckland’s best bars. They proudly showcase the best new voices and fresh perspectives with world premieres. If you’re looking for some awesome drink at the bar want to be inspired, entertained, or just want a good night, this is the place to go. You’ll find innovation, experimentation, and fresh new talent and work.
3. Neck of the Woods Bar

- Location: 155B Karangahape Road, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 27 733 9325
The Neck of the Woods is more than a venue that serves a great selection of craft beer and original cocktails. This bar is also one of Auckland’s premier spaces for rock music.
Bands and musicians from around New Zealand and overseas come to show off their musical styling at Neck of the Woods. Whether you’re coming to watch one of your favourite bands, just coming for a drink, or want to discover some new music, you’ll have a great night here.
4. 1885’s Bar

- Location: 27 Galway St, Britomart
- Phone: +64 9-551 3100
1885 is a multi-level bar that embodies contemporary, 21st-century style, including a mix of smooth dark leather seats with roughened rustic brickwork and dim lighting, which creates a casual yet sleek ambience.
1885 features some of Auckland’s most fabulous DJs on weekends and during the week. This is one of the 10 best bars in Auckland. You can taste their full booth and bottle service in the new G.H. Mumm Champagne Room.
The Champagne Room has four plush leather booths, white marble tables, and a private host who offers table service at the press of a button.
Pre-purchasing a bottle of premium spirits or champagne allows you to reserve the Champagne Room booths for private use between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m.
5. Cassette Number Nine Bar

- Location: 9 Vulcan Ln, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-366 0196
You can spend some excellent time and relax in a homely atmosphere at Cassette, which uses local produce and offers a mouth-watering food menu of homemade everything from crispy chicken to pumpkin salad, burgers, Cheesecake, and everything else you could wish for.
This is one of the top spots in Auckland to grab a cold beer. Their beer menu features beers from around the world. But you’ll be surprised to learn that this impressive list of beers isn’t what this bar is known for.
When you come to Cassette Number Nine, you must try one of their teapots. You will find a delicious booze concoction in these teapots that will get the night moving.
6. The Conservatory Bar

- Location: 1-17 Jellicoe St, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-307 2222
The Conservatory’s inspiration for both the design and feel was drawn from as far as the Balearic, Canary, and Greek Isles to Sydney and Melbourne. As one of the 10 best bars in Auckland, you can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and bar snacks at the Conservatory.
You can chill out with a cocktail on the waterfront, sit on a couch by the fire with a great Pinot, or kick back in our massive outdoor area with an ice-cold beer, a sumptuous 18-inch pizza, and marvel at the living wall that is the bar. Their wine list is dominated by incredible New Zealand wines with some quality international varietals that exude class.
7. The Empire Tavern Bar

- Location: 137 Victoria St W, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-373 4389
Established in 1875, The Empire has long been an iconic Auckland watering hole. With a great selection on its drinks menu, it is never short of drinks. Refurbished in 2013 with a vibrant and modern look, the tavern is now a refreshing juxtaposition between Victorian architecture and contemporary interior design, located in the centre of Auckland.
The Empire Tavern holds events almost every night of the week, including an open mic night on Thursday and a quiz night on Tuesday. Guests are accompanied by a tall glass of beer from the selection of almost 20 beers on tap.
8. Stafford Road Wine Bar

- Location: 141 Queen St, Northcote Point, Auckland 1320, New Zealand
- Phone: +64 9-480 2690
The Stafford Road wine bar’s menu is designed to reflect the seasons. Local suppliers and growers inspire them to create original dishes that respect the best produce available. Their wine list isn’t long but full of good stuff you won’t see elsewhere by the glass or carafe if you choose, along with a carefully curated craft beer selection from the countries to brewers.
Their dining options range from delicious and delicate light meals to densely flavoured larger plates, which can be matched to one of the brilliant local wines.
Conclusion
In the vibrant city of Auckland, where culture and modernity merge, the 8 best bars offer diverse experiences for locals and visitors alike.
From the soulful vibes of Orleans Bar to the artistic allure of The Basement Theatre Bar, each venue contributes to Auckland’s dynamic nightlife. Whether sipping cocktails at Roxy Bar’s rooftop deck or relishing Japanese-inspired concoctions at Fukuko Bar, these establishments reflect the city’s cosmopolitan essence.
Auckland’s bars aren’t just places to enjoy drinks; they embody the spirit of a ‘Beta World City,’ where entertainment, art, and culinary delights converge for an unforgettable urban experience. Cheers to Auckland’s finest!
FAQs
Are there any cultural performances at The Basement Theatre Bar?
Yes, the Basement Theatre Bar is a cultural hub that showcases a mixtape of performances, including theatre, dance, music, and more.
What sets Neck of the Woods Bar apart from other venues?
Neck of the Woods is not just a bar; it’s a premier space for rock music, attracting local and international bands to its stage.
Why is 1885’s Bar considered a multi-level experience?
1885’s Bar offers a multi-level setting in a contemporary style. It features plush leather booths, a Champagne Room, and a rooftop deck with stunning skyline views.
What’s unique about Cassette Number Nine Bar’s drink offerings?
Cassette Number Nine is famous for its teapots filled with delightful concoctions, adding a unique twist to the impressive beer menu.
What inspired the design of The Conservatory Bar?
The Conservatory Bar draws inspiration from various locations, including the Balearic, Canary, and Greek Isles, creating a diverse yet cozy ambience.
Why is The Empire Tavern Bar considered an iconic watering hole?
Established in 1875, The Empire Tavern Bar has a rich history. It blends Victorian architecture with modern design and offers a variety of events throughout the week.
What defines the dining experience at Stafford Road Wine Bar?
Stafford Road Wine Bar emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced dishes paired with an extensive selection of unique wines and craft beers.
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