Aren’t we lucky to live in a city with not only hundreds of restaurants to choose from but also some of the most incredible rooftop bars? If you haven’t tapped into Auckland’s rooftop bar scene, then this list is for you. Here are our top picks.
(Head image source: The Churchill)
The Glass Goose
This beloved yet hard to find rooftop bar is located at the top of a hidden staircase off Federal Street. When you find your way into The Glass Goose, sit yourself down on one of their outdoor wooden tables and enjoy your surroundings of modern glass house features. The whole place is light and bright, with a well-stocked bar and a delicious food menu full of European classics (our favourite is always the duck fat potato skins) suitable for small groups and major functions.
The Parasol & Swing Company
The bustling Viaduct seems to be everybody’s favourite spot lately and we're not surprised with the array of quality bars which have popped up along the waterfront. The Parasol & Swing Company is no exception with its sun-soaked rooftop bar that boasts one of the best views in Auckland city. Their quirky cocktail menu and extremely friendly staff attract both tourists and locals alike. Dine on burgers, tacos, and share plates and enjoy the views – it's as simply delightful as that at Parasol & Swing.
The Churchill
In the mood for a gin and a view? The Churchill rooftop is the perfect bar to unwind after a long workday. Visit The Churchill at night, look out across Auckland city, and watch the lights of the Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower twinkling below. They not only take the prize for the highest rooftop bar in Auckland but are also renowned for their plethora of gins, boasting 170 different types on their menu. But don’t let this intimidate you, use the bartender as your guide and let them create for you a perfect gin & tonic by selecting each gin, mixer, and botanical to suit your taste.
(Note: The Churchill, Auckland is currently closed for quarantine purposes)
Brew On Quay
If you’re looking for a more low-key spot to enjoy a drink then the Brew on Quay rooftop bar is probably more your scene. This place boasts an outstanding collection of 102 different types of beer and a great selection of Kiwi food-favourites like beer battered market fish & chips or a black pepper Angus beef pie with creamy cheddar mash. Brew on Quay is excellent for catching all major sporting events while enjoying friendly service and a relaxed and cosy atmosphere.
La Zeppa
It’s Friday and you are suddenly feeling Vitamin D deficient, you need to get yourself to La Zeppa, the absolute best place to enjoy the afternoon sun. This popular locale is located in the Victoria Park Market district with an attractive view of Auckland’s Sky Tower giving this bar a truly metropolitan feel. Their positively huge outdoor deck with generous seating is a great choice for a big group or a lively date night. The menu is also plentiful with an array of Mediterranean dishes and refreshing seasonal cocktails.
Dr Rudi's
Another favourite along Auckland’s Viaduct is Dr Rudi’s. From their rooftop bar, watch Auckland’s finest yachts drift in and out of the harbourfront while sipping on a glass of La Marca Prosecco. If the view isn’t enough to convince you then maybe the activities inside will. This buzzing rooftop bar is jam-packed full of quirky tidbits including an indoor bowling alley. Challenge your friends to a boozy bowling game, just make sure you mind the innocent bystanders beside you! If you’ve worked up an appetite after your bowling then you must try their 3-feet long pizzas, a great choice for big groups or for one very brave and hungry person.
