Mar 15
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Travelling Tastebuds: Mexican Food in Auckland

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In our new blog series we are going to cover a different type of international cuisine and the best spots in Auckland to experience them. One of the great things about Auckland is its diversity, the city is made up of a mixture of different cultures and if there is one thing that brings us all together it’s our love of food. In this first edition we are going to look into some of the best spots in the city that do authentic Mexican food.

Besos Latinos

Translated to ‘Latin kisses’, Besos Latinos is a well-known establishment that is located in the extremely popular upmarket food hall Elliot Stables in the CBD, just off Queen Street. Offering authentic Latin American cuisine as well as a tasty selection of cocktails. Their cocktails are around $15-20, but really it’s the experience and ambience that you’re paying for before or after a night out in town. If you’re feeling a bit famished, then fuel your body with some mouthwatering enchiladas and cheesy quesadillas.

Mexican Specialties

You’ll find one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in Auckland nested in Ellerslie. This eatery has become famous for its soft tacos filled with protein such as beef, prawn and chicken. And for those looking to feast on a budget, you’ll be happy to hear that everything is priced at around $15 and you’ll leave with a full belly. They have dining in and takeaway options as well as goodies for sale if you feel like recreating your own tacos at home.

The Lucky Taco

If heading to a restaurant just isn’t you thing, then let me introduce you to The Lucky Taco, a much loved taco truck that has been tooting its way around Auckland since 2013. In addition to a range of mouthwatering tacos that they serve including the Tacos De Arrachera with skirt steak and tasty options for vegetarians such as the Tacos De Calabacita with zuccinni. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Tacos De Sesos which features lamb brain mixed with egg batter. Or unleash your creativity by picking up their hot sauce mix and a home DIY taco kit. (Remember, it’s called hot sauce for a reason!)

Nanita’s Tamales

Nanita’s Tamales is a cosy spot in Northcote food court where you can find the most traditional and homely Mexican dishes. Open for dinner only, though sometimes not at all (it pays to check ahead of time)  it is super affordable where you can feed two for less than $30. One highlight would be the tacos which are around $15 for three and you get interesting options such as chicken and slow-cooked lamb rather than the usual beef. The vegan taco made from organic Mexican black mushrooms (Cultlacoche) is also a must-try. And, of course, you can’t beat owner Nanita’s namesake tamales.

Feb 25
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Auckland Best New Bars to End Summer out in

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We have a few mo this left of summer, and we want you to make the most of them! And what better way then heading out for a drink in the afternoon sun? Now, we cover a lot of famous and established bars in our blogs,but for this summer edition we decided to look into some Auckland newer editions, to get you out exploring so,etching a little fresh:

Good George Craft House

Let’s kick things off with an award winning kiwi classic, you’ll know Good George for their lineup of award-winning craft beer and cider. Hailing from Hamilton, this humble operation has quickly grown from a church-turned-brewery into eight dedicated eateries across the country.

Luckily for Auckland locals, good George has finally opened a craft house here, simply take a drive up Tamaki Drive and spot the sassy rainbow stairs featuring sayings like, ‘If in doubt, try a stout.’

The Craft House’s modern Kiwi decor combines exposed industrial fittings and warm wood tones, with an impressive bar featuring two large tankers stationed for the freshest pour. With 18 beers and ciders on tap, both the core range and seasonal varieties are on offer which is perfect for any cider of craft beer enthusiasts, and their sharing platters are perfect for groups who can’t decide on what to choose!

The menus perfectly match he’s the classic beer and brewery. Feel with a selection of pub food, that includes some mouth watering burgers that can please everyone, from Good George’s beef and chicken burgers to vegetarian burger, they have it all.

And if by this point you haven’t had your fill of the extensive beer and cider on offer, grab some of their infamous 946-millilitre squealers to take home. Their slogan-painted rainbow stairs say it best, ‘Good beer, for good people.’

Fitzroy Lounge Bar

For those looking for a little bit of swankyness with their pub feel, then lo k. O further than Ponsonbys newsest cosy and sprawling bar, Fitzroy lounge bar.

Serving tapa style bites, the food menu is small but delicious that can feature a selection of Kapiti cheeses, house-made dips, olives and a range of charcuterie, other selections can meet all and any dietary requirements as well as seeminglessly perfectly matched with any of the fantastic cocktails on offer.

Speaking of cocktails, Fitzroy has a selection of cocktails that are expertly made and bursting with flavour mixing such ingredients such as bgin, Campari, sweet vermouth and mixed berries, sours, Aperol, dry vermouth, pomegranate or mint.

Fitzroy is a perfect place for a stop-in, nightcap or after work windown, and in one of Auckland most popular night clubbing spots, its worth checking out on a big night out.

The Goyzer bar

You can’t visit Auckland, or Epsom for that matter, and not try some of our many dumpling son offer, it’s no argument that Auckland has the best dumplings on offer in the country. And luckily for you a new bar has opened up that mix both dump.ings with drinking!

The Gyoza Bar is the ultimate dynamic duo—dumplings and cocktails. Found on Ponsonby road, this foodie haven specialises in the famed crunchy yet fluffy gyoza dumpling, a trend currently taking the world by storm. Add some sake, cocktails and fine wine to the mix and you’ve got yourself one heck of a night out!

Feb 10
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Your Guide to February

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The the sun still out and the days still long, there is still plenty to get out and enjoy this month, and if you are coming to visit us in the city of sails, we have you covered with some handy hints on what to get up to while you stay:

Hidden 2019

One for he youthful rave culture lovers out there, This new single-stage festival will be set outdoors in the middle of Ellerslie Racecourse on Friday, 22 February. After having successful runs across the ditch, this festival is. Asking it’s way to Auckland, and will Feature the likes of trap rapper Lil Yachty, US producer Kayzo and local drum and bass legends Shapeshifter. Also appearing on the hip hop and bass-heavy bill is Florida rapper Ski Mask The Slump God, UK trap producer TroyBoi, Los Angeles producer Cray, UK dubstep trio Gentlemens Club and Atlanta rapper J.I.D. If you are wanting a night out to remember (or have fuzzy memories off, depending on what you drink) this one is for you.

Gibbs Farm Sculptor Park Visit

If raving isn’t your thing, and your taste in culture leans more to art, then we have just the thing for you. The Gibbs Farm sculptor park is usually closed to the public, but  will once again open its gates this February to raise funds for Auckland Art Gallery.

The 400ha farm, privately owned by New Zealand businessman Alan Gibbs, is an expansive open-air sculpture park that boasts the greatest collection of large-scale outdoor artworks in the country — most of which are site specific commissions by some of the world’s most renowned artists. Major works include Anish Kapoor’s giant red horned ‘Dismemberment, Site 1’, Marijke de Goey’s ‘Tango Dancers’, Len Lye’s second kinetic ‘Wind Wand’ installation, and Leon van den Eijkel’s huge concrete cube structure ‘Red Cloud Confrontation in Landscape’.

If you decide to join the February 16 open day, you will be given free rein of the park for three to four hours, have the opportunity to be introduced to selected artworks by those in the know from Auckland Art Gallery, and come face-to-face with the exotic animals that occupy the farm.

City of Ales

NOw if you are fan of locally made craft beers and want to make the most of this summer sun, then boy do we have a treat for you. 2019’s edition of City of Ales will see 20 of the best regional breweries landing in Auckland for the day of elbow bending — with rarer breweries like McLeods, Brewaucracy, Craftwork and Kainui bringing in their hard to find, boutique craft beers for the event. Meanwhile, Sweatshop Brew Kitchen has made a special, barrel-aged and “funky” brew just for the festival. One to try, for sure.

Anti-Valentines

No a fan of this corporate holiday. Would you rather spend it in one of Aucklands most quirky and fun museums? Look no further friends! Western Springs’ beloved museum of transportation and technology is hosting an event for those just not that into the idea of Valentine’s Day. On February 14, Visitors are invited to explore the museum grounds which will be scattered with food stands, bars, activations and a main stage performance area. A variety of entertainment, activities, and general shenanigans will feature, from silent discos and karaoke to archery, jousting and live music.

Jan 20
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Night of Laughs – Exploring the Classic

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Auckland is known as the hub of New Zealand comedy, most of the comedians you see brace our small screens are mainly based in Auckland, and you are very likely to catch the. Doing a set at Auckland famous Classic Comedy bar.

The iconic Queen Street venue showcases New Zealand’s top and up-and-coming comedians. There are even open-mic nights in case you wanted to try the stage out for yourself. Here, you’ll spend the night drinking and laughing, and no, you won’t be disappointed. So let’s have a look at your options throughout the week:

Monday – Raw Comedy Night

There’s nothing quite like an open mic comedy night, where you can witness some of the cities freshest faces in comedy trying out new material that lands and sometimes misses. You can also try your hand at comedy and sign up yourself, trust me when I say that giving stand up comedy a try is a certain type of adrenaline rush! So grab a few beers from the bar and sit in for a night of uncertainty.

Tuesday

Tuesday either has a a show featuring an established comedian, or a selection of established comedians, or is otherwise closed.

Wednesday – Big Wednesday

Fifteen dollars to see over ten comedians in one night? Look no further than the classics big Wednesday where you get to witness a showcase of up and coming local talent. Wednesday’s can also have shows running in other rooms with established comedians, so it’s worth checking the weeks program for more details!

Thursday – Pro Night

Pro night has been running since 1997 and for $20 you get an evening with some of New Zealand top comedians, it’s even cheaper if you bring a group in, which we highly recommend, it the perfect way to start you night off: drinks and giggles.

Friday/Saturday – classic comedy all Stars and live and late.

Friday and Saturday nights are packed for the weekend, you can usually find some established comedian on tour but you can also grab some tickets to the established nights. The first being a two hour show that features top comedians, the Comedy All-Stars is hailed as the main event of the week and is a great steal for $30 and as always, it’s cheaper as a group! If you are looking for some real late night giggles look no further than the Live and Late show which is described as alternative comedy late at night. This kicks of at 10pm and tickets are $15.

Dec 19
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What’s On: Auckland January

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The cold weather is well behind us, the sun is out, the holidays are booked and if you are heading to stay with us across January you are in for a bevy of shows, theatre and summer concerts!

Here’s what’s on this month:

Pop Up Globe: The Taming of the Shrew & Richard III

The Pop-Up globe 2019 season continues with two Shakespeare classics including The Taming of The Shrew which promises to transport you four hundred years into the past to tell the tale of an intelligent, outspoken, wealthy woman and a rude, misogynistic drunkard determined to secure his fortune, who are misled into a hasty marriage. Richard III is the classic Shakespeare villain tale of Richard Duke of Gloucester, who plays upon his own reputation and shamelessly manipulates, extorts and executes his way to the top.

Performed in stunning Jacobean period dress, the Somerset’s Company are Pop-up Globe’s mixed company of actors and musicians, drawn from around the world, these shows are an annual treat and tend to sell out fast, so get in quick to secure your spot!

New Year’s Day Races

See in the new year with some fancy dress and a day in the sun at the races! This annual tradition continues in 2019 with a winning trifecta of high-class thoroughbred racing, free family entertainment & tradition. The young ones will enjoy the petting zoo, pony rides, and other activities on offer, while older patrons can relax with a picnic blanket, food, and drinks.

Fomo By Night

The huge Australian summer festival finally lands on our shores this month, toting a stellar line up that includes Nicki Minaj, Lil Pump, Mura Masa, Kali Uchis, San Holo, Montell2099 and The Katayanagi Twins. This all-ages show at Spark Arena promises to mix international and local acts for an unforgettable night to start the summer off right.

Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals

After winning over crowds at last year’s Laneway Festival, Anderson .Paak returns to New Zealand hot off the heels of his hugely anticipated third album .Paak will be joined by Grammy-nominated composer, instrumentalist, producer, vocalist, poet and frontwoman of neo-soul quartet Hiatus Kaiyote. .Paaks 2018 sold out, so you’ll want to get in quick if you want to catch the man in action!

Florence + The Machine

Heralded as one of the best live performers, Florence + The Machine will return to New Zealand next January for one powerhouse performance at Spark Arena. The tour is supporting the singers latest offering, High As Hope, which has been met with rave reviews, she will be performing the album along with fan favorites at what will surely be a sell-out show.

Dec 04
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Exploring Auckland’s newest dining experience: Morningside Precinct.

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Being located in the suburbs sometimes can make it difficult to have a new and upscale dining experience, and if you aren’t up for a trip to the city, your options become limited.

That is – until now. Located just twelve minutes from the motel, a new dining precinct has opened in Morningside and is set to be one of the hottest food and drinks destinations in Auckland. Close to Eden Park, it’s simply called ‘Morningside’ and houses businesses, food hotspots, a tavern, a dessert bar, and even a stunning new event space. With both indoor and outdoor spaces in a lush environment, there’s something for everyone.

And it’s become an instant hit with locals, earning rave reviews online and on social media. If you want to know a little more, here’s what’s in store for you at this new Auckland hotspot.

Bo’s Dumplings

If you are looking for a quick snack while visiting, or just have dumplings on your mind, look no further. A collaboration between chef Bo Feng and Architect DJ Tai, feast on perfectly steamed or lightly fried classics including the chive egg prawn and juicy pork dumplings. Inspired by the flavorings of Bo’s hometown, Tianjing, give a cold dish a try for a taste of true homestyle Chinese fare.

Crave

Another perfect spot for a quick bite – and an Auckland favorite is Crave. A social enterprise, a portion of the profits are invested back into the community. With a menu that transforms from day to night, as well as an impressive drinks list, Crave is a definite on your list.

Electric Chicken

The first of many main dining experiences, the Electric Chicken will draw you in with its fit-out popping in colour. Choose between a quarter bird, half bird or whole bird then pick which one of five ways you want it cooked, add a side and you’ll be in foodie heaven. They’re also serving up chicken sandwiches, which include a vegetarian option, soda, and liquor.

Morningside Tavern

No dining precinct would be complete without some good old fashioned pub food and drinks and that’s where the Morningside Tavern steps in. Overlooking the space are cosy lounge settings perfect for catching up for a cold one or two. With a starters menu that includes small plates and an impressive mains menu, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a Kiwi classic like beer battered fish ‘n’ chips, a woodfired pizza or even a superfood salad for those on a health kick, wash it down with one of 27 beers on tap, bottled beer, a wine, cocktail or even a mocktail.

Miann

Finally, if you have room for dessert than you can indulge your sweet tooth at Miann. With a blooming mini garden at its front, you’ll find a cafe and patisserie serving fresh brews and creative bites. You can’t go wrong with their house-made gelato offering, but if you’re more of a savory person, the almond croissants are a must. You’ll also find a chocolate shop with blocks and bites that are made by the masters right before your very eyes.

Nov 19
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Exploring St. Kevins Arcade

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The crown jewel of K Road is St. Kevin’s Arcade which is packed with some of Auckland’s most popular bars, shops, and restaurants. The Arcade started out as a large estate, occupied by the Nathan family until 1918 and then demolished in 1920. Before the Nathan family vacated their city abode, they gifted a strip of land to serve as a passage from K’ Road to Myers Park, and this strip of land is where the famous St Kevin’s Arcade sits today.

The Arcade has grown since, after being extended in 1926, and with a thriving economy, K’road became one of Auckland’s premier shopping destination, often compared to Oxford Street in London. During this time of flourishment, St Kevin’s Arcade was home to the best of Auckland’s Tailors and Dressmakers, tea rooms and photography studios.

But with the introduction of the inner-city motorway and suburban malls in the 1960’s K’ Road and the surrounding area lost its appeal. But today, with more people living central, and the inner city reclaiming its vibrancy, St. Kevin’s arcade has become a staple for entertainment, food and shopping, especially for young people.

Shops in the arcade include the vintage denim bar, Stalgic Society, where you can choose from a large selection of on-trend vintage brands such as Calvin Klein, Gas, Wrangler, Tommy Hilfiger, GUESS and more. Then become your own designer and choose how store-owner Sarah will spice up your new love-worn threads with patches, crops, cuts, frays and other distressing techniques. If you are lucky you’ll catch Stalgic during one of their host guest artist’s sessions, to further personalise your jeans.

You can also book a nice Swedish relaxation and deep-tissue massage at Nicetouch, pick up a book from the hand-picked collection of quality second-hand books at The Green Dolphin, or pick-up a bouquet of flowers to brighten up your day from rose-tinted flowers.

If all that shopping works up an appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice for food at St. Kevins, with highlights being Lord of the Fries, an ethical, fast food friend that specialises in Burgers, hot dogs, fries, sides, shakes and more. Dive into some Lebanese food at Gemmayze St with some local décor that matches the food, if you are on the go, pick up some tasty treats from Auckland’s favourite family-owned bakery Tart. If you want to dive into some eggy goodness, try the selection on offer at Egg and Spoon, an eatery solely dedicated to the humble egg – the brekkie burger is a local favourite.

The nightlife is also alive in this tiny nook, Both Whammy Bar and The Wine Cellar offer a range of local craft beers and wine, and usually, have local and international acts gracing their stage with a wide range of music.

So if you are heading into the city, be sure to find some time to check out this local favourite and find out why some of the best-kept secrets are worth finding.

Nov 05
0

Browsing Britomart

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In many of our blogs and guides to the city, we have briefly touched on Britomart, a small boutique collection of shops and cafes at the bottom of Queen street near the waterfront. Over the past few years, this space has blossomed into a popular heaven for shoppers and those with an exotic taste for food. In this blog we take a closer look at what makes this place such a must-visit destination:

Boutique Shopping

Wardrobe in need of a refresh, and have you got some money to burn? Then you are going to find the little craven of Britomart to be a shoppers’ paradise, with all your favourite brands in one shoppable space! This includes a mix New Zealand’s hottest fashion designers including Deadly Ponies, Juliette Hogan, Karen Walker, and Trelise Cooper as well as the hottest high-end international brands such as Prada, Gucci, Jo Malone London, Lululemon, Ted Baker, Tiffany & Co, just to name a few.

Catchup, Stroll and Brunch!

One of the greatest benefits of Britomart is the urban modern space which allows for a perfect walk’n’talk catch-up with friends with a follow up of brunch. Wander through Takutai Square and to nearby Queens Wharf. There’s always something happening at both these spots: the square is home to a Saturday morning market and the wharf regularly hosts art exhibitions and food trucks. If you’re really up for a stroll, head west to North Wharf and along the Westhaven Promenade. To take in the instagrammable views of the Waitemata Harbour.

The Nightlife

Britomart is perfect for those looking for a decent meal and a good night out. The quarter has a bit of everything to please all palate, including classic American-style burgers at better burger, take in some Vietnamese at Café Hanoi, a mix of traditional Japanese at Ebisu, or the French goodies at L’assiette. When it comes to having a night on the town, we would recommend starting at Brew on Quay for their dizzying selection of craft beers on tap, a stop at the one and only 1885 is a suburb and classy stable of the city, and Caretaker brings out the golden age New York feel in its intimate setting with a menu filled with delicious beverages.

La Cigale Market

But don’t feel like this place is only buzzing during the night, during Saturdays from 8am to 1pm you’ll come across a market that injects a sense of Parisian flair into the traditional kiwi market model. The result? A beautiful collision of locally grown, fresh fruit and vegetable stalls sit alongside international fare such as cured meats, specialty chocolates and nut butters. There are more than twenty stalls to peruse – constantly changing in theme, taste and flair!

Oct 08
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Worth The Walk: Five Great Walks In Auckland

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It’s nearly November, the weather is getting warmer, the flowers are blooming and the beaches are looking more and more attractive. Summer in Auckland can be spent many ways, but we believe that some of the best ways to explore the city and the country for that matter, is on foot. In this blog we are going to look at some of Auckland’s best walks that cover our beautiful nature, some of our historical parks as well as taking you across romantic walks by the water, to give you some inspiration to tie up your laces and get exploring on foot.  

Cornwall Park 
  

This walks is located a stones-throw away from our motel, so there is no excuse to visit her. And during summer and spring its worth a visit alone for the cherry trees providing you with enchanting pink flowers that make the park look like something out of a postcard.   

Hobson Bay Walkway 

We understand that sometimes you have a big schedule and a huge walk just can’t really fit in. Well, that where Hobson bay is perfect: the short-but-sweet walk will have you enjoying the scenery of boats, birds, boardwalks, Victorian style houses and a lookout to Rangitoto, North Head, and Mount Victoria. But be sure to check the tides, You can only access this walk at low tide. 

Coast To Coast Walkway  

There are not many places in the world where you can literally walk from one coastline to the other. This is a true taste of Auckland and all it has to offer, you’ll walk through inner city ‘burbs, volcanic mountains, historic sites, all the way through to Manukau Harbour. You can also do the round trip right from the doorstep of the motel as one of the stops is our neighbor, one tree hill.   

White’s Beach Day Walk  

The west coast of Auckland has a secret, and we’re willing to share. The White’s Beach day walk is an hour long and begins down a local resident’s driveway, so be sure to be respectful, from there, signs will direct you to White’s Beach, where the track meanders down toward the big blue, where sand dunes await. Scramble over the sandy hills, play in the sea and witness exactly why Auckland’s West Coast has become one of the countries most sought-after destinations.   

Narrow Neck Beach  

Devonport is an amazing little village, with its ice cream shops, boutique fashion and bookstores and historic sights, you’d have to be crazy to not visit this waterside village –  but there it also boasts the beautiful Narrow Neck Beach. This will deliver the goods with views of Rangitoto and the city, its perfect for a slow stroll with someone you love.

Jun 08
0

Your Guide To Auckland’s Best Bars Part Two

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Sometimes when you’re on holiday you need to treat yourself. You have escaped to treat yourself and sometimes that means sitting down with some good company and enjoying a good drink. Auckland is perfect for this, our bustling metropolis is packed with secret bars, bars with amazing themes, and simple holes in the wall with great history.   

In part one we took you through some of our favorite intimate bars – the ones that host local live music and where you can relax. In part two we showcase some of the more bigger and more publicly known bars if you are feeling like a night out on the town, a dance with your better half or a group of friends, here are some local hotspots: 

Cassette 9 

Renowned for their teapot cocktails, quirky decor and top-of-the-range tunes and local gigs this is the place to be if you are wanting a classy night out, and when we say night out, Cassette is open until four in the morning! Cassette feels like a real city bar, located up a flight of stars, the bar is in a unique U-shape that features a small balcony, bench seating and dancefloor. The hip staff and large selection of drinks make this one of Auckland most frequented bars.

Grand Central 

This one of for the younger crowd, it’s the crown jewel of Ponsonby, known for its laid-back, hospo-friendly attitude and unpretentious ways, guests are sure to leave all inhibitions at the door as they really let loose to the live music or DJ’s on stage. Open until the wee hours of the morn it’s perfect if you are looking for a good boogie. And With late night curry and burger located just across the road and also open late, you have everything you need for a good night out! 

Impala 

Probably the newest bar on this list, don’t think for a minute this makes Impala any less of a popular hotspot. It has fast become a CBD hotspot mainly for featuring famous and up-and-coming local DJs that bring creative sets that you just can’t find anywhere else in the city. Expect to knock back a Fireball or two, dance until that 3am kebab calls and thank God that this Auckland underground, the class-act club came to town! 

Longroom 

Another Ponsonby institution (Ponsonby really has some of Auckland’s best bars), featuring a DJ dropping beats on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights there’s no excuse to skip a night out here, and it’s cater-made for an older crowd – its Restricted 22 after a certain time! This bar features a quirky interior that features a “fire” long stretching deck, couches and ponsonbys most popular dance floor. You might want to add this to the first stop on your list on a crawl as it can be extremely hard to get into during the weekend at peak times.