The Five Best New Summer Drinking Spots in Auckland

Fancy that. Summer actually decided to show face this year. And thank the Lord because 1) we deserved it and 2) we really needed to get out and sample some of the new additions to Auckland's drinking and eating spots.

While you'd be easily forgiven for not believing we're now in Autumn, the fact is these Summery days are probably numbered. So, we decided to recap on some of our favourite spots we've enjoyed over the last few months, offering a new level of social excitement and providing us with more choice in this city of ours. Of course, not to forget the regular haunts that have provided us with so much fun, laughter and good times (we salute you), here are our five best new Summer bars in Auckland city.

1. The Commons

This is just what Takapuna needed. An easy stroll from the beach, an incomparable view and a head chef who knows how to craft a menu that'd make any nearby restaurants shudder in their aprons. Or whatever it is that chefs do when they're intimidated by something pretty damn great. In at number one, The Commons.

2. Freeman and Grey

Can anyone actually remember what was in this spot before Freeman and Grey set up shop? Nope, neither. But it's certainly made it's mark as one of the cooler watering holes on the strip.  The space has been well utilised and offers the complete drink and dine experience in Ponsonby.

3. Libertine

Launched in Spring but made for Summer, Libertine has nailed it with it's city fringe location in an impeccably well-done reno job of an historical building. Be warned, a drink here on Friday is likely to find you among the swag of ad land, but don't let that put you off. Ad people normally know what's cool.. Right?

4. Goldfinch's

The Viaduct has somewhat fallen off the radar as of late, but all that is about to change. Snapdragon has already given the waterside location an initial injection of newness, and now it's neighbour Goldfinch's looks to extend that. Definitely worth a visit, both day or night.

5. Citizen Park

For so long now a drink in Kingsland has meant a drink at Neighbourhood. However, there's a new player on the block and they're bringing a fair game. We were excited seeing the construction of this new jaunt unfold and now that it's here we can firmly say, it's made a spot on our top 5 with ease.

[Head photo credit: Murray TC Douglas]