Jordan McCraeEver wondered where you can find the best views in Auckland while sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail? The answer is closer than you think, and it’s well above ground level!
Whether you’re a local on the lookout for a new haunt or a visitor aiming to see the city from a different perspective, our guide to the best rooftop bars in Auckland has you covered. Grab your favorite cocktail attire, and let’s ascend to the city’s loftiest liquor destinations together!
The Churchill
– Media from thechurchillakl
Location: 396 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 942 4666
Pricing: $$$
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
It’s not every day you find yourself sipping a drink at an establishment named after the iconic British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. But don’t expect a stuffy and wartime bunker vibe here – this place is all about celebrating the finer things in life, much like Sir Winston did.
Located in the heart of the city, The Churchill offers an unparalleled 360-degree view of Auckland. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is the spot where you can watch the city transition from day to night, with the Sky Tower practically within touching distance.
They even pride themselves on an exquisite selection of gin by boasting over 180 varieties from around the globe! And for those must-try recommendations, you can’t go past their signature gin and tonic selections.
Bar Albert
– Media from baralbert.auckland
Location: 13 Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 883 2999
Pricing: $$$
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM
At a breathtaking 38 floors up, Bar Albert reigns supreme with unparalleled views of the cityscape, the Waitematā Harbour, and even the Waitākere Ranges. Hello, picture-perfect sunset shots!
Bar Albert is all about vintage charm. Think Great Gatsby meets modern luxury. With its Deco-inspired decor, lush velvet, and shimmering accents, this bar oozes sophistication. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time (while still enjoying all those fabulous comforts).
Plus, they don’t just pour drinks – they craft experiences. The skilled mixologists here create signature cocktails with playful Auckland-themed names (Napier Street, anyone?) and create an impressive list of bespoke spirits.
Rooftop at QT
– Media from the_rooftopguide
Location: 4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 379 9123
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Nestled above the vibrant QT Auckland hotel, this bar boasts incredible harbor and city views that are perfect for those Insta-worthy snaps. The chic design blends indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring your view (and drink) are always on point.
But the Rooftop at QT isn’t just about looks. This bar serves up seriously good Mediterranean-inspired bites – think tapas, pizzas, and fresh seafood that add some delicious dimension to your evening.
Plus, their resident DJs know how to spin a soundtrack that elevates the Rooftop’s energy as the night rolls on. Whether you’re into a chill after-work spot or a buzzing weekend experience, this bar caters to both with its stylish and lively atmosphere.
Dr. Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co.
– Media from drrudis
Location: Level 2/204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 942 4666
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday -11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM
- Sunday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Perched in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, this rooftop haven offers unparalleled vistas of the bustling metropolis – the perfect backdrop as you sip on something delicious!
What makes Dr Rudi’s so unique is its on-site microbrewery – they literally brew their fresh craft beers right there for you to enjoy. But they’re not just a one-trick pony, they’ve got cocktails, wines, and a tasty food menu filled with pizzas and shareable plates.
For some added fun, try your hand at a couple of rounds of bowling on their free lanes!
Hello Beasty
– Media from eatupbeasty
Location: 95-97 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 21 554 496
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Hello Beasty blends contemporary Japanese cuisine with Korean and Chinese influences to offer a flavor explosion unlike anywhere else. Their open-air rooftop dining space provides a breezy setting – perfect for enjoying their innovative dishes and signature cocktails.
Once you’re here, expect Asian fusion like never before. Think perfectly seared hibachi meats, fresh sashimi, and playful twists on classics like their famous Korean Fried Cauliflower. Plus, with vegetarian and gluten-free options, Hello Beasty caters to everyone’s palate.
Saint Alice
– Media from saint__alice
Location: Level 1/204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 972 3562
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Wednesday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Picture this: stunning waterfront views, the freshest seafood, a mouthwatering wood-fired pizza menu, and an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and stylish – yep, you’ve just entered the realm of Saint Alice in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour.
This rooftop bar embraces its seaside location perfectly. Whether you’re after a sunny weekend lunch or a lively spot to watch the sunset, Saint Alice delivers. It’s got ample space both indoors and out, meaning you’ll snag a good seat to soak in those glorious views.
Throw in their stellar wine lies (hello, New Zealand pinot noir!) and a craft beer selection to satisfy the hop-heads, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect rooftop hangout.
The Parasol & Swing Company
– Media from parasolandswing
Location: 7/204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 366 3948
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM
The Parasol & Swing Company sets the bar (pun intended) with its stellar vibe and spectacular views.
This two-level haven is all about elevated drinks and food. Plus, their award-winning cocktail menu offers drinks with locally sourced ingredients and unique signature mixes like their crowd-favorite banana miso sour (seriously, you have to try it!).
They’ve also got a curated selection of boutique wines and New Zealand’s finest beers. But here’s the thing: they also offer a fantastic American-style menu with burgers, tacos, and delicious shareables for a complete sensory experience.
Sunset
– Media from sunsetbar.nz
Location: 10th Floor/63-67 Nelson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 399 2367
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Wednesday – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday – 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Perched atop Sudima Auckland City hotel, the Sunset rooftop bar is where stunning panoramas, Mumbai-inspired bites, and ‘70s glam collide.
Want something funky? Their Mango Paloma with lime and lychee is a delicious crowd-pleaser. Hungry? Their food menu takes inspiration from the streets of Mumbai! Think Masala waffle fries and crispy fried chicken with mustard – perfect for sharing and savoring those incredible views.
Whether you’re after a sophisticated date-night spot or a fun and upbeat vibe for catching up with friends (their DJs pump out great tunes!), Sunset delivers on all fronts.
HI-SO
– Media from hiso_rooftopbar
Location: 67 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 379 1860
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
HI-SO is where stunning views and glamorous vibes create a rooftop scene unmatched in the city. With unparalleled views of the Waitematā Harbour and the iconic Rangitoto Island, this bar sets the scene for unforgettable evenings.
Their cocktail menu is a work of art that features an expert blend of classics and their dazzling signature creations (think the ‘Gulf Spritzer’ – like an Aperol Spritz, but with a Kiwi twist!).
This is the kind of place you go when you want to see and be seen – dress to impress and get ready to mingle with Auckland’s in-crowd while you sip those Insta-worthy cocktails!
Tommy’s Champagne Parlour
– Media from tommyschampagne
Location: Level 6, 52 Tyler Street, Britomart Place, Britomart, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 302 9888
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Tucked away above Auckland’s Britomart precinct, Tommy’s Champagne Parlour is a hidden gem offering an air of intimate sophistication that most rooftop bars lack. With over 30 varieties of champagne, this bar takes the bubbly experience to the next level.
This intimate space invites you to slow down and truly savor – there’s no thumping music or hordes of people vying for a view. Instead, you’ll find comfortable seats, an inviting space, and knowledgeable staff who’ll happily guide you through their champagne collection.
If the bubbles get you peckish, their food menu is no afterthought. Expect refined bites like oysters, caviar, and cheese boards that are specifically designed to complement their champagne offerings.
The Glass Goose
– Media from theglassgoose
Location: 78 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 379 9404
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 3:00 AM
Imagine a lush garden oasis that’s tucked away in the heart of bustling Auckland – that’s exactly the vibe The Glass Goose rooftop bar offers. Located off Federal Street, this hidden gem boasts vibrant greenery, hanging lanterns, and a magical view directly up towards the Sky Tower.
The menu plays into its greenhouse aesthetic with fresh and seasonal dishes designed for sharing. Think crispy pork belly bites in a mulled wine glaze, creamy burrata with vibrant toppings, and hearty share boards.
Let’s not forget the star of the show – the cocktails! From classic Negronis with a dark chocolate twist to espresso martinis that feature creamy butterscotch liqueur, your tastebuds will be in for a treat!
Palmer Bar
– Media from palmerbar_nz
Location: 1 Albert Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 889 6970
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
This stylish rooftop getaway delivers all the essentials: killer views of the city skyline, an outdoor terrace to soak it all in, plus a fire pit for chilly nights. Think mid-century-modern-meets Miami vibes with lush greenery and plenty of comfy booths.
Of course, drinks are front and center – The Palmer Bar boasts a killer cocktail list featuring unique tropical flavors that are perfect for those sundowner sessions.
Hungry? Head chef James Kenny (previously behind restaurants like Clooney and True Food & Yoga) curates a delectable ‘modern Mediterranean’ food menu to showcase dishes like smoked kahawai croquettes, Italian doughnuts, or their signature wood-fired pizzas.
