New Zealand may be small, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t packed with a ton of fun and exciting activities to do. Here are a few of the best things to do once the sun sets in the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Tokyo Bay
Starting with dinner, Tokyo Bay is a beloved establishment that you can find in Auckland. Specializing in Japanese cuisine, it is the ideal place to have a date night, dinner with friends or family, or as a spot to enjoy a few drinks while you watch the sunset over the water.
Operated by an experienced team with a ton of expertise in Japanese cuisine and fine dining, there is nothing on the menu that will disappoint you. Pack your pod vape, and arrive hungry, because you are going to struggle to not want to try everything Tokyo Bay has to offer.
Ahi
If you want a taste of authentic New Zealand cuisine, made my incredible chefs with the freshest ingredients around, you need to make a stop at Ahi. Found in the Viaduct Harbor, Ahi takes Kiwi fine dining to the next level, and beyond.
You can enjoy fresh seafood, a variety of meat dishes, and a selection of snacks and starters that can fill you up before you even get to the mains.
Amano
Amano is a bohemian-inspired wood and brick eatery specializing in seasonal Italian cuisine. At Amano, they keep things simple; beautiful interiors, delicious food, and service that is almost unmatched. If you are after an unforgettable dinner before a night on the time, this is the place to do it.
Hawthorn Lounge
After dinner, a drink or two at a bar is in order, and Hawthorn Lounge is a fantastic place to start. This intimate speakeasy serves up exceptional cocktails and has a wide range of beers and wines.
There are also several bespoke, specialty cocktails to choose from, many of which you would have never tasted before, but you won’t be able to get enough of them.
The Library
The Library is an all-in-one venue that has amazing drinks, good food, live music, and is ideal for dates, gatherings, and everything in between. Found in Wellington, this large bar is made to feel far more intimate thanks to its book-covered walls and many separate seating areas.
Red Light District
Finally, Red Light District is an old-school, Shanghai-inspired bar, found behind a hidden door in a drycleaners in Christchurch. With lanterns adorning the ceiling and plenty of mood lighting, Red Light District is the place to be for high-end cocktails and drinks for the more discerning of patrons.
Below Zero Ice Bar
While you can’t stay here until the early hours, Below Zero Ice Bar is a truly unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience. It does what it says on the can; enjoy a cold a beer or cocktail in a frozen bar made of ice.
With everything from an ice bar to frozen furniture, this ice bar is open all year round, and is a fun experience that everyone should enjoy at least once.
Activities
If having dinner or a couple of drinks isn’t up your street, or it isn’t the only thing you want to do, here are a few activities that will liven up any evening.
Viaduct Harbor
The Viaduct Harbor was built for the America’s Cup, but now it serves as one of the go-to places for Auckland locals. Packed with boutique restaurants, bars, clothing stores, spas, and several hotels, it is a premier destination in downtown Auckland, and a great place to relax, explore, and take in the glorious sea views.
Cuba Street Mall
Another amazing spot to explore is Cuba Street Mall. This pedestrian-only street is packed with vintage stores, some of the best cafes in New Zealand, restaurants, and bars. It is the perfect all-in-one destination to get a taste of Kiwi culture and life.
Stargazing
While not the most exhilarating idea for some, New Zealand is easily one of the best places to sit and stargaze. Thanks to its relatively small cities and wide open spaces, the sky is incredibly clear and perfect for a night of of stargazing and a moonlight picnic.
Night Skiing
One Winter activity that you should definitely do when the sun goes down is night skiing. Head to Coronet Peak in Queenstown and shred a few hills with only the moon and a few lights guiding your way. This is definitely a more fun and beautiful way to enjoy skiing.
Live Music
Finally, no matter which city you are in, there is almost always live music on any day of the week. Whether it be in a bar or club, be sure to look out for a show and enjoy the evening singing away along with some of New Zealand’s best local artists.
In conclusion, these are only a few of the best things to see and do once the sun sets in New Zealand. With a bustling nightlife, plenty of world-class restaurants and bars, and countless outdoor activities, you will never be bored, no matter how late it gets.
