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Epic Night Adventures: Top Things to Do in Auckland at Night

Epic Night Adventures Top Things to Do in Auckland at Night

Just because the sun has gone down doesn’t mean you can’t do anything fun anymore. If anything, it’s the opposite. When night comes, the city becomes more alive, inviting you to engage in epic adventures!

Auckland at night offers something for everyone. Thrillseekers can explore a haunted scream park or test their wits by solving puzzles in an escape room.

Here are some of the best things to do in Auckland at night. Be sure to add a few of them to your bucket list!

Visit Sky Tower

Address: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Monday to Thursday—9:30 am to 8 pm
  • Friday to Sunday—9:30 am to 10 pm

Contact Number: +6493636000

Website

Every city has its own iconic skyscraper, and for Auckland, it’s definitely Sky Tower. This building stands 328 meters tall, making it a highlight in the city’s skyline. 

Technically, you can visit the top of the tower during the day, but nighttime is even better. This is because the whole city is lit up, so the panoramic views are glittering and gorgeous; you can also spot the 53 volcanoes in the greater Tāmaki Makaurau area!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try Skywalk, which lets you walk on a wide platform above the city, or Skyjump, which lets you leap from the tower and fall 192 meters down! These activities aren’t for the faint of heart, so be careful!

Pro Tip:
Feeling hungry? Check out Orbit 360º, a restaurant within Sky Tower that revolves, letting you enjoy the view while eating your meal. 

Indulge in fine food at the Auckland Night Market

Addresses:

  • Kelston Mall under Countdown
  • Mt. Wellington under Countdown
  • Botany Town Center under Hoyts
  • Henderson under Kmart
  • Papatoetoe under KMart
  • Pakuranga under The Warehouse
  • Silo Park Waterfront
  • Silverdale Center 

Operating Hours

  • Saturday—5 to 11 pm
  • Closed from Sunday to Friday

Contact Number: +64275512797

Website

Feel the city coming alive by hitting up an Auckland Night Market. The best part about this night market is that there are various locations, so if you want to, you can stop by as many as you want! 

No matter which location you visit, you’ll be met with the delicious aroma of sizzling street food. Since the night market welcomes a wide range of vendors, you can find diverse cuisines—from authentic Asian dishes to delectable Western favorites. 

Aside from food, the night market is home to uniquely made crafts, jewelry, and artwork. This is a great place to buy souvenirs to bring home to your loved ones! 

Pro Tip:
Some stalls here might sell secondhand clothing for a cheap price. Be on the lookout for them because you never know what affordable gem you can find!

See the stars at Stardome Observatory and Planetarium

Address: 670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1345, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—9:30 am to 5 pm, 6 to 10:30 pm

Contact Number: +6496241246

Website

If you’re a big fan of astronomy, then you should head to Stardome, Auckland’s very own observatory and planetarium! 

This attraction has Zeiss telescopes in the courtyard, allowing you to get a close-up look at faraway stars and planets without any problem. There are also planetarium shows available in the evening, which will make you feel like you’re floating in space. 

If you’re still dying to learn more about our mysterious universe, you can check out the gallery. The exhibits here feature an in-depth discussion of various astronomy subjects, such as our solar system and the nearby galaxies. 

Pro Tip:
Try visiting on a Sunday (from 6 pm onwards). This is because there’s a discount offered to visitors at this time, allowing you to access the observatory and planetarium at a cheaper fee. 

Have a laugh at The Classic: Comedy Club

Address: 321 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Wednesday and Thursday—7 to 10:30 pm
  • Friday and Saturday—6:30 pm to 1 am 

Contact Number: +6493734321

Website

Are you in the mood for a laugh? If so, then you’ll love The Classic: Comedy Club, which is the only full-time professional comedy club in New Zealand!

Operating since 1997, this comedy club features a regular program of live comedy from Wednesday to Saturday. Its roster of comedians is pretty extensive—from upcoming talents to established professionals—so you can expect great shows every time.

Aside from comedy shows, this club hosts local bands sometimes. It’s perfect if you’re looking for new musical acts to support!

Pro Tip:
The Classic: Comedy Club is also available to rent. If you need a place for a private function or festival event, consider booking this club. 

Check this page for more information. 

Listen to live music while dining at The Lula Inn

Address: 149 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Monday and Tuesday—12 to 9 pm
  • Wednesday—12 to 10 pm
  • Thursday—12 to 11 pm
  • Friday and Saturday—12 pm to 2 am
  • Saturday—10 am to 2 am
  • Sunday—11 am to 9 pm

Contact Number: +6493652690

Website

The Lula Inn is a cozy restaurant located on the edge of the ocean. Because of this, this is a great place to go if you want a casual dining experience. 

When it comes to food, the restaurant’s menu is predominantly seafood-based; bestsellers include pan-fried market fish and beet-battered fish and chips. But you can also find other meat dishes, such as wagyu burgers, sirloin steaks, and roasted lamb. 

Additionally, if you visit at night between Thursday and Saturday, you’ll be able to enjoy live jazz music. What an amazing way to enjoy a relaxing evening! 

Pro Tip:
Celebrating a birthday or some other event soon? You can book this restaurant to host your event. 

There are different available venues here. To learn more, check out this page

Go kayaking among bioluminescent plankton

From: urbanlistnz

Meeting Point: Okura Boat Ramp, 1 Okura River Road, Okura, North Shore 

Website

Kayaking at night seems like an exciting thing to do, but you know what makes it even more exciting and memorable? Kayaking among bioluminescent planktons at night! 

With this adventure, you’ll be starting from North Shore Beach and making your way to Mairangi Bay. Once you’re far enough from the coast, you’ll be able to spot the planktons lighting up the waters—a sight that will truly take your breath away! 

Aside from this beautiful scenery, you’ll also be surrounded by the gentle sounds of the Hauraki Gulf. Indeed, kayaking along Mairangi Bay is an experience that will make you appreciate the beauty of nature. 

Pro Tip:
If you’ve never tried kayaking before, you can ask any of the guides to teach you and assist you. 

Go night canyoning at AWOL Canyoning Adventures

Address: 23 Seaview Road, Piha 0772, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—7 am to 8:30 pm

Contact Number: +6498340501

Website

Another exciting thing you can do at night in Auckland is canyoning. The best place to go for this type of experience is AWOL Canyoning Adventures. 

With AWOL Canyoning Adventures, you’ll be able to explore Piha, a steep-sided volcanic rock valley located in gorgeous hills behind a beach. Because of this, it’s home to Auckland’s biggest abseils, narrow gorges, jumps, and caves. 

Since you’ll be going at night, you’ll see a side of Piha that most people don’t see—one where glowworms appear everywhere, lighting up your surroundings. Aside from glowworms, you’ll also encounter a big waterfall and a subtropical rainforest. 

Pro Tip:
If you bring your friends and family, you just might be able to score a discount for the group!

Scare yourself at Spookers

Address: 833 Kingseat Road, Kingseat 2580, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Friday—8 am to 9 pm
  • Saturday—2 to 4 pm
  • Closed from Sunday to Thursday

Contact Number: +6492919002

Website

At Spookers, you’ll spend your time screaming your lungs out and running away with your heart pumping hard inside your chest. After all, Spookers is a haunted scream park—the only horror theme park in all of New Zealand!

This park has four main attractions, namely Haunted House, The Woods, Disturbia, and The Fog. Each of them has its own unique monsters, and with realistic props, costumes, light, and sound, it will definitely feel like you’re in a horror movie yourself. 

R-13 versions of these attractions are also available if you’re looking for something more terrifying. These R-13 experiences are only open every Friday and Saturday night, and they’re perfect for groups. 

Pro Tip:
If you’re traveling with your kids, there is a family-friendly version of Haunted House and Disturbia. In this version, you’ll be guided by one of the actors around the attractions.

Test your wits at Escapade

Address: level 1/23 Victoria Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Monday and Tuesday—12:30 to 8:30 pm
  • Wednesday—12:30 to 10 pm
  • Thursday and Friday—11 am to 10 pm
  • Saturday—10:30 am to 10 pm
  • Sunday—10:30 am to 9:30 pm

Contact Number: +6493033570

Website

If getting scared by monsters (even if they’re not real) is not your jam, then maybe you might want to try Escapade instead. Escapade specializes in escape room experiences, so it’s all about using your wits to solve puzzles here! 

You have many options to choose from in Escapade. The most popular ones have got to be the rooms that look like old schools, but if you prefer something more fantastical, you can try the Galactic Cantina, which looks like it’s taken straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Escapade also hosts outdoor adventure games in Auckland. These games are perfect for families and work teams!

Pro Tip:
Escapade can create a custom escape game experience, especially if you need it for a product launch or to boost a movie or show. Read this page to learn more. 

Play mini-golf at Safari and T. Rex Alley

Address: 3 Tamaki Drive, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 9 pm

Contact Number: +6495244096

Website

You don’t have to be a golfing expert to enjoy the sport. If you’re just in it for the fun, then you should try out Safari and T. Rex Alley, one of the mini golf courses by Lilliputt Mini Golf. 

As you can guess from the name, this golf course is themed around the Serengeti plains; that’s why you can find statues of giraffes, hippos, and giraffes throughout the space. There are also dinosaurs in the mix, including a five-meter-tall Brachiosaurus! 

At night, the whole place feels even more realistic. The animals look like they’re just lurking in the dark, giving off the impression that you’re playing golf in the wild. 

Pro Tip:
Tuesday is the best time to visit this golf course because the admission fee for this day is discounted. 

Test your golfing skills at Gloputt Mini Golf

Address: 28 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Wednesday and Thursday—3:30 to 8 pm
  • Friday—2 to 10 pm
  • Saturday—10 am to 10 pm
  • Sunday—10 am to 6 pm
  • Closed on Monday and Tuesday

Contact Number: +6494891139

Website

Another great place you can go to for mini-golf is Gloputt Mini Golf. But what makes this particular place stand out is that it’s a glow-in-the-dark golf course! 

You’ll have to get used to this new environment and try to hit all of the 16 holes. If you struggle with golfing, then you can always just admire all the glowing lights instead. 

This mini golf is also set completely indoors. Because of this, you don’t have to worry about suffering through the unpredictable weather that usually befalls Auckland.

Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting during the school holidays, you might want to book in advance. This is because Gloputt Mini Golf usually holds holiday programs, making them very busy during this particular time of the year. 

Ski down the slopes at Snowplanet

Address: 91 Small Road, Silverdale 0932, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Saturday to Tuesday, Thursday—10 am to 10 pm
  • Friday—10 am to 12 am
  • Wednesday—10 am to 10 pm

Contact Number: +6494270044

Website

Snow is incredibly rare in Auckland, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy snow-related activities like skiing. Just head to Snowplanet, and you’ll get the thrill of skiing in no time!

This indoor snow park has an area of 8,000 square meters, so there’s a lot of room for everyone to ski, snowboard, and snowtube. You don’t even have to be skilled before visiting; there are skilled instructors who will be happy to teach you the basics. 

Children are also welcome to play around here. Because of this, Snowplanet is a perfect destination for families!

Pro Tip:
If you’re hungry, there’s a restaurant here: 7 Summits Restaurant. It’s in a cozy chalet setting and overlooks the snowy park. 

It also has a special program called Le Petit Chef, which is a 3D dining experience! Essentially, a virtual chef comes alive at your dining table and prepares your meals right before your eyes. 

Skate at Paradice Ice Skating

Address: 150 Lansford Crescent, Avondale, Auckland 0600, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Tuesday and Thursday—10 am to 12 pm, 1 to 3:30 pm
  • Wednesday—1 to 3:30 pm, 8:30 to 10 pm
  • Friday—10 am to 12 pm, 1 to 3:30 pm, 7:30 to 10:30 pm
  • Saturday—1 to 4 pm, 8 to 10 pm
  • Sunday—1 to 3:30 pm

Contact Number: +6498283800

Website

If you prefer ice skating to skiing, then Paradice Ice Skating should be on your Auckland itinerary. This skating rink is pretty spacious, so whether you’re a newbie or a professional, there’s a lot of room for you and everyone else. 

You can even take ice skating classes here, and they range in difficulty—from beginner to advanced. These classes are also open to all ages; in fact, there was once a 65-year-old who attended a beginner class! 

Aside from ice skating, you can play ice sports, such as hockey. Mini golfing and laser tag are two other activities you can engage in here.

Pro Tip:
The skating rink often hosts events where you get to play in the rink and possibly win prizes. Check the website often to see if there are any events when you’re visiting. 

Watch an alternative movie at Silky Otter

Address: 228 Ōrākei Road, Ōrākei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand

Contact Number: +6495230400

Website

Silky Otter opened to the public in the middle of the pandemic, which seemed like bad timing, but luckily, it has become a staple in the suburb of Ōrākei. 

This boutique cinema aims to reimagine the movie-watching experience. That’s why the theatres have smaller spaces but with comfortable recliners as seats; when it comes to food, it will be delivered to you instead of having to bring it yourself. 

Another great thing about this cinema is that the movie selection is varied. Of course, there are the typical blockbusters, but you can also find lesser-known or independent movies in the roster—perfect if you want to expand your taste in film. 

Pro Tip:
If you’re planning a movie night out with friends and family, you can have catering because there’s a fully staffed kitchen in the cinema. With catering, you’ll be able to enjoy cocktails, dinner, and dessert. 

Have a colorful combat at Asylum Paintball

Address: Villa 10 &, 16/833 Kingseat Road, Karaka 2580, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Saturday and Sunday—10 am to 7 pm
  • Closed from Monday to Friday

Contact Number: +6492770075

Website

Paintball is always fun no matter how old you are, so if you’d like to play this game with your loved ones, be sure to head to Asylum Paintball!

Asylum Paintball features several arenas, each having its own unique atmosphere. And when you’re playing in the night, there’s the added thrill of playing in the shadows; it’s such a great strategy to bring down your enemies!

If you’re playing with children, you can take the children’s paintball package, which equips you with low-impact paint guns. Technically, it’s intended for children ages 6 to 10, but adults are welcome to play.

Pro Tip:
Asylum Paintball offers packages and services for parties and other celebrations. You might want to book them if a loved one is celebrating their birthday. 

Check this page for more information.

Play board games with cocktails at Dice and Fork 

Address: 210 Victoria Street West, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Tuesday—11:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 9:30 pm
  • Wednesday—11:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 10 pm
  • Thursday—11:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 10:30 pm
  • Friday—11:30 am to 3 pm, 5 to 11:30 pm
  • Saturday—12 to 11:30 pm
  • Sunday—12 to 9 pm
  • Closed on Monday

Contact Number: +6493031863

Website

For people who prefer a chill night, playing board games while drinking cocktails sounds like a good time. If this sounds like your jam, then you should check out Dice and Fork. 

The best part about this game bar is that the board games are free to play; you only have to order food and/or drinks. If you want to play for longer than two hours, you—and each person in your group—will have to spend an average of NZ$25. 

This bar has over 300 games, so you have a lot of options. As for food and drinks, you can’t go wrong with any of the signature cocktails (Sagrada Sling, in particular, is a winner), paired with chicken tenders and beer-battered onion rings. 

Pro Tip:
If you want to play a game that’s more thrilling, you can try any of Dice and Fork’s escape rooms. The goal is to escape a locked room within 90 minutes!

Try your luck at SkyCity Casino

Address: 72 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours

Contact Number: +6493636000

Website

Do you want to try gambling (responsibly, of course)? Then, SkyCity Casino is just the place for you to test your lucky stars! 

This casino features over 2,000 gaming machines and 150 table games, so you’ll undoubtedly find something that you’ll like. Poker is available here as well; you can even participate in tournaments if you think you’re a very skilled poker player. 

If you want a more chill game, you can participate in bingo instead. Prizes can get up to NZ$400 if you’re lucky! 

Pro Tip:
Be sure to dress properly when visiting the casino. While there’s no specific dress code, casino staff will refuse entry to anyone who wears unkempt clothing and sleeveless tops (for men).

Sing your heart out at ACE KTV Karaoke Bar

Address: 33 Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Monday—8 am to 2 am
  • Tuesday to Thursday—5 pm to 2 am
  • Friday to Sunday—5 pm to 3 am

Contact Number: +6493771171

Website

Unleash your inner popstar, preferably with your loved ones! At ACE KTC Karaoke Bar, you’ll have a room of your own where you can sing your heart out like you’re in front of thousands.

The best thing about this KTV bar is that each room has its own theme. There’s one that looks like a room from a sci-fi movie, another that’s inspired by video games, and another with adorable stuffed toys; feel free to browse and take your pick!

To make your experience even fun, you might want to order a few bottles of alcohol. A few sips are enough for you to loosen up and perform like the superstar that you are!

Pro Tip:
This KTV bar tends to sell out fast, so if you really want to sing karaoke here, you need to reserve a room as soon as possible. The website has a QR code that you can use to reserve, but you can also call.

Look for glowworms at Auckland Domain

Address: Park Road, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours

Contact Number: +6493010101

Website

Looking for worms at a public park may not sound inviting, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. And besides, you’re not just looking for the usual worms; instead, you’re searching for worms that actually glow in the dark!

Technically, there are several spots in Auckland where you can find glowworms, but Auckland Domain is the most popular one. In particular, check out the duck pond and the winter gardens because these are where the glowworms are mostly spotted. 

Aside from glowworms, you’ll find across animals like ducks and geese. You’ll feel like a character from a Disney animated movie with all the animals around you. 

Pro Tip:
If possible, try to join a group tour when looking for glowworms. That way, you won’t get lost, and you’ll also be able to socialize with other people. 

There are several organizations that offer free night walks at Auckland Domain. One such example is the Kaipātiki Project

Play games at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq

Address: 309 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand

Operating Hours

  • Sunday to Thursday—10 am to 10 pm
  • Friday and Saturday—10 am to 12 am

Contact Number: +6498013381

Website

Endless fun—and nostalgia—awaits you at Archie’s Brothers Cirque Electriq. This arcade is like a blast from your past; here, you can find classic games that require cards and will reward you with great gifts if you win! 

Aside from classic arcade games, this place also has other fun features like dodgem cars, bowling, and virtual reality. If you’re on a date, try your luck at the claw machine; you might actually win something for your partner!

Pro Tip:
If you’re hungry, head to Dazzler’s Diners, which offers your favorite snacks and drinks. In particular, you can find Freakshakes and fun cocktails here. 

Throw axes to decompress at Sweet Axe Throwing Co.

Address: 5 Galatos Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact Number: +6421853566

Website

Feeling stressed? One fun unconventional way to decompress is throwing axes, and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you visit Sweet Axe Throwing Co. 

At Sweet Axe, you’ll have your own room with several targets. Your only goal is to throw an axe at the target and hope it hits the bull’s eye; if not, then you can always try and try again. 

Don’t be scared to throw axes; the lovely staff will give you a quick rundown of how to do it properly and what to do before your session. Just channel all your frustration into the throw, and you’ll feel light as air afterward (hopefully, you’ve hit the target, too!).

Pro Tip:
Axe-throwing is even more fun with other people, so feel free to bring your loved ones. Sweet Axe can accommodate groups. 

Treat yourself to oysters and champagne at Oyster & Chop

Address: Market Place, Viaduct, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11:30 am to 10 pm

Contact Number: +6493770125

Website

If you’re feeling fancy for the night, head to Oyster & Chop, a fine dining restaurant located along the Viaduct Harbor. Because of its location, you can enjoy relaxing views of the sea while dining. 

Happy Hour occurs between 3 and 6 pm, and during this time, you can enjoy rock oysters and champagne. Aside from this pairing, you can also try other delectable dishes here, such as a plate of Wagyu steak or black Angus eye fillet.

Pro Tips:
If you want to secure your spot, you need to make a reservation beforehand. Check the website for the reservation form.

If you’re booking for a group of people, email [email protected] with your details. 

Please be aware that they’ll need your credit card details to make the booking. If your group doesn’t show up without prior communication, your card will be charged NZ$50 per guest.

Say hi to animals at Auckland Zoo

Address: Motions Rd, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand

Operating Hours: January to March, every Thursday, 4 to 8 pm

Contact Number: +6493603805

Website

From January to March, Auckland Zoo holds a special promotion called Zoo Lates, which lets you visit in the evening. Since the zoo is usually open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, this promotion invites you to experience the zoo in a different light. 

Say hi to your favorite primates and other animals. And when you’re hungry, you can take advantage of the Zoo Lates Date Night Dinner at the iconic Old Elephant House; here, you’ll be able to enjoy an exclusive two-course menu. 

Part of the Zoo Lates promotion is the MOTAT Aviation Lates, which celebrates all things related to aviation. You can tour MOTAT’s award-winning Aviation Hall with all its aircraft models, learn how to make a Manu Tukutuku kite, and more. 

Pro Tips:
If you want to avoid long queues, you might want to buy your ticket online. Check the website for more information.

To learn more about the animals in the zoo, attend the Zoo Lates Keeper Talk. Check the website for the updated schedule. 

Check out the night rides at Rainbow’s End

Address: 2 Clist Crescent, Manukau City Centre, Auckland 2104, New Zealand

Operating Hours: February, every Saturday, 6 to 11 pm

Contact Number: +6492622030

Website

Rainbow’s End is a well-known amusement park in Auckland, but it’s usually only open during the day. That said, in the summer, specifically in the month of February, the park remains open until late in the evening!

Experience the various thrilling rides in this park. Stratosfear is the scariest ride yet as it takes you on a 360º whirl; if you think that’s too extreme for you, there’s a gentler version that only rocks back and forth at 45º. 

Other exciting rides you should try are the Fearfall (free fall from 18 stories high!), Invader (traveling up to 70 km/hr while spinning across an 80-m track), and Corkscrew Coaster (a rollercoaster that drops and loops like a corkscrew). 

Pro Tip:
There are family-friendly rides if you want something less extreme. These rides include family karts, bumper boats, and Choco Express. 

Go on an electric bicycle tour of Auckland City Lights

Meeting Point: Park Hyatt Auckland, 99 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand 

Website

Are you an avid biker? Then you should participate in the Electric Bicycle Tour of Auckland City Lights! 

This bike tour is hosted by the Power to the Pedal, and as the name suggests, it’s all about biking around Auckland at night. This tour lets you experience a quieter—and brighter side—of the city, and wow, it’s a gorgeous sight to behold. 

This tour is around 12 km long, so it will take you about 1.5 hours to complete. It’s not really a difficult route, so if you have a teenage child, they can join in the fun as well. 

Pro Tip:
You’ll be biking with a group, so make sure to stick close to them. That way, you won’t get lost or, in the event of an accident, someone can immediately help you.