New Zealand’s nightlife is experiencing renewed vibrancy with the presence of lively DJs and band scenes particularly in the larger cities. There is a wide variety of night clubs, cabarets, pubs, concerts and live performances to choose from. The country also has four casinos located in Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.
One unique experience that can be had in Auckland is possible courtesy of Minus 5 which is a bar made of ice. Guests get one free vodka drink upon entry and are all provided with warm jackets, boots and gloves. Although the time allowed for staying is short, it is a must to experience it even for one time only.
The Loaded Hog at the Viaduct Harbour, Hobson and Quay Streets is recommended for those who want to check out the yachting scene. Auckland’s top after-hours bar for the sophisticated older crowd is Spy Bar which is located in the same area. Other hot night spots in the area include Plum and Chic.
Coco Club in Fort Lane City is an upscale market alley bar for the sophisticates. It offers vintage champagne by the glass. The Match Lounge Bar in Hopetoun Street is a slick little joint designed to accommodate an intimate crowd with plenty of quieter spots that make conversations possible. The Khuja Lounge is a Latino/Hip-Hop/Funk DJ scene popular with the 20’s and the 30’s crowd while Fu is home to purists of Hip-Hop, drum and bass and breaks.
Suede is a favorite with a mixed crowd of locals. The place to find out all about New Zealand’s growing Hip-Hop scene is Club 4:20. Chandelier offers just the right place for a quiet drink in an opulent environment. Lime holds the distinction of being the smallest bar of all where there is always a queue to get in.
The younger dance crowd prefers Sponge while those who want to be served the best cocktails in New Zealand should head for Orchid. Great bar scenes on Friday and Saturday nights are provided by SPQR and Whiskey. Malt presents itself with a feel of the local corner pub with a bit more warmth and style. Other notable night spots are the Crow Bar, Honey, Galatos, Iguacu, The George, Denim, the Paddington and the Penny Black.
The Sky City Casino in Auckland is New Zealand’s largest casino. It is not only for those interested in gambling since the multi-faceted complex hold several excellent restaurants, a theatre complex and art collections. Casinos are open 24 hours a day, everyday.
New Zealand’s cafes and restaurants have a wide range of culinary offerings due to the unique blend of influences that has created mouth-watering flavors and foods. The so-called “Pacific Rim” cuisine style takes its inspiration from various regions and countries such as Europe, Thailand, Indonesia, Polynesia, Japan and Vietnam. The New Zealand wine is something that has to be discovered by guests.
Most night spots, restaurants and cafes serve liquor seven days a week. The white wines, specifically Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc have achieved an international reputation for excellence. Visitors should know that smoking in all hospitality venues such as bars, restaurants and cafes is strictly prohibited.