10 of the best romantic date ideas to try in Auckland

Looking for a romantic date night idea that’s sure to impress? Auckland offers so many options perfect for creating unforgettable memories. From comedy clubs and nature walks, to cocktail lounges with sunset views, here are 10 of the best romantic date ideas Tāmaki Makaurau has to offer, catering for every couple’s taste.

1. For nature lovers

Couples who find romance in the great outdoors will discover Auckland doesn’t disappoint. Explore the natural beauty of the region with a Bush and Beach wilderness experience, visiting the dramatic black sands of Piha beach, followed by a guided rainforest walk.

If you prefer a DIY adventure, head to Waitākere Ranges Regional Park for a scenic hike on one of their many trails. Pack a picnic to enjoy afterwards.

Try horseback riding along the beach with Muriwai Beach Horse Treks. Riders are paired with horses based on their riding ability, before heading out along the expansive Muriwai Beach. It’s an opportunity to soak in the magnificent coastal views and experience the thrill of riding in the shallow surf.

To witness the conservation efforts of one of our most biodiverse islands, take the Explore Group ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island. Just an 80-minute trip from the CBD, this wildlife sanctuary is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of endangered native bird species such as kōkako, takahē and tīeke (saddleback).

2. For comedy lovers

Inject some laughter into your love life by hiring an e-scooter and zipping down colourful Karangahape Road (dubbed K’Road by locals) to the charming St Kevin’s Arcade.

Beautifully lit up at night, this Art Deco arcade is home to an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, overlooking Myers Park and the sparkling city skyline. Sip on a cocktail at Tomfoolery and dine at legendary Lebanese eatery Gemmayze Street or Pici for sublime pasta.

Enjoy a night of giggles at nearby The Classic Comedy Club on Queen Street. A quick late-night bite next door at subterranean favourite Tanuki’s Cave is recommended by visiting comedian Jack Black for serving “deliciousness on a stick!”

Or check out live improv comedy up the road at Ponsonby’s Covert Theatre. Afterwards, wine and dine at the bustling precinct of bars and restaurants on Ponsonby Road, where having fun is always on the menu at local favourites SPQR, Chapel Bar and Prego.

3. For art lovers

If you love art, check out these Auckland date spots. Stay at The Hotel Britomart, known for its beautiful architecture and décor. With stunning art throughout, guests can marvel at artworks by acclaimed New Zealand artists Ralph Hotere and Shane Cotton in the hotel’s beautiful bar The Lounge.

Visit Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki to see the country’s greatest collections of historic and contemporary, Māori and Pacific artworks.

Stroll down to Wynyard Quarter to enjoy a cocktail at one of the many waterfront bars, such as Captains Bar at Park Hyatt Auckland.

The waterfront is a great spot to view public artworks, including Michael Parekōwhai's renowned The Lighthouse – a neon-light filled 1950s ‘state house’ – or Michio Ihara’s striking Wind Tree in Silo Park. Download the Silo Park Art Trail map to discover more public art.

Plan your own art walk by visiting the Auckland Public Art website, or join Aucky Walky Tours for a private guided stroll through the city’s art, sculptures and landmarks.

Cap off your night dinner at Onslow, where art, décor and cuisine combine.

4. For cocktail lovers

There are plenty of options for a finely crafted drink in Auckland city, and arguably, some of the most romantic places in Auckland.

Discover downtown on a cocktail-crawl through quirky, hidden and elegant bars. Begin at Bellini Bar at the Hilton Auckland on Queens Wharf. To make your date more memorable, book into one of their mixology masterclasses to learn how to shake, stir and strain three well-known cocktails.

For those who prefer sipping in the sunset, head to The Churchill on the top floor of Four Points by Sheraton Auckland for a signature gin cocktail, or Queens, a chic new rooftop bar at Commercial Bay. A little further around the Viaduct, the Rooftop at QT is always a hit.

Hidden late-night treasures for an intimate tipple include the cosy House Bar at Hotel DeBrett, Little Culprit on Wyndham Street or the New York-style underground bar Caretaker for custom cocktails with class.

5. For a first date

To ease the jitters, why not try this for a first date idea? Start down at Viaduct Harbour for a round of mini-golf at Holey Moley Golf Club, or head upstairs for a beer and a spot of bowling at Dr Rudi’s

Spice things up with an Asian cooking class at Sachie’s Kitchen, or get creative at a sip and paint class at Pinot & Picasso in Newmarket. BYO drinks and snacks!

See how your date collaborates – or competes – at Dice & Fork in Victoria Park, which has an array of board games to play along with a great casual food menu.

If you want to ensure a buzzy atmosphere and plenty of options for walk-ins, check out the Viaduct, Britomart or Ponsonby. You’ll be spoilt for bar and restaurant choices to keep your new friend entertained – and there’s plenty to look at as you walk and talk!

6. For the budget conscious

Romance on a budget is easy in Auckland. The city’s natural beauty is a priceless backdrop anyone can enjoy for free.

Hire a city bike or scooter and ride along the scenic waterfront to the Viaduct or head to Mission Bay for a Kiwi classic, fish and chips on the beach.

Enjoy a walk through the beautiful grounds of Pukekawa / Auckland Domain and into the majestic twin glasshouses of the Domain Wintergardens, showcasing a unique collection of exotic plants.

In the evening, what could be more romantic than a sunset stroll at the top of Maungawhau / Mount Eden? It’s the ideal spot to enjoy 360-degree views of the city as the sun goes down.

Discover Auckland’s amazing array of Asian cheap eats on Dominion Road, where you’ll find the best dumpling and noodle houses the city has to offer, including New Flavour and Eden Noodles.

Stay at the wallet-friendly ibis Auckland Ellerslie or Novotel Auckland Ellerslie – both near the beautiful 425 acres of Cornwall Park – or for a central city option book in at ibis Budget Auckland Central.

7. For thrill seekers

If you’re a couple craving adventure, Auckland has some thrilling outdoor date ideas for you to experience. With Auckland Bridge Climb, you can scale the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge and gain a unique perspective of the city, Waitematā Harbour and the surrounding landscape.

Conquer your fears with an adrenalin-pumping bungy jump off the bridge, or leap off the top of the Sky Tower with a SkyJump. For something slightly less frightening, try the SkyWalk around the tower’s exterior platform.

Hire mountain bikes and ride together through the towering pine trees at Woodhill Mountain Bike Park in West Auckland. There are plenty of tracks and jumps that are sure to get your heart racing.

Catch a Fullers360 ferry to Waiheke Island, where you’ll be swept off your feet on a high-speed zip-line at EcoZip Adventures.

Once you’re back on solid ground, indulge at one of the island’s world-class wineries, such as Man O’ War, Te Motu, Cable Bay or Tantalus Estate.

8. For city slickers

Auckland’s SkyCity precinct offers a mix of entertainment, dining and accommodation options for those wanting a romantic outing in Auckland's central city.

Savour a sunset cocktail at SkyBar before dining at one of the many stellar eateries on Federal Street.

The Sugar Club offers modern New Zealand cuisine with a Pacific influence – and a side of breathtaking views.

There’s superb Chinese cuisine at Huami, contemporary Japanese at Masu, or the slightly more relaxed Depot Eatery for oysters and vino. 

Post-dinner, try your luck at the SkyCity Casino – New Zealand's largest casino – for a wide range of gaming options. If you’re not a gambler, catch a show at SkyCity Theatre or The Civic.

9. For movie magic

Film fans wanting a great date night are in luck as Auckland is home to numerous cinemas screening a diverse selection of films. Catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster at Westfield Newmarket’s boutique cinemas, The Library and The Gallery. Each offers beautiful décor, loads of personal space and a Boutique Eats menu.

For a more cosy viewing experience, the elegant Silky Otter in Ponsonby is your theatre. It has the most spacious armchairs, delicious food which will be brought to your seat and movie-themed cocktails to sip while you watch.

If your film tastes are less mainstream, there are several art house cinemas across Auckland, such as Academy Cinemas in the central city, The Capitol Cinema on Dominion Road, and The Hollywood Avondale.

To further immerse yourselves in the wonderful world of film, visit Wētā Workshop Unleashed on Federal Street, for a 90-minute interactive behind-the-scenes experience.

Auckland plays host to some fantastic film festivals throughout the year, including the New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF), Doc Edge Festival, and Māoriland Film Festival. Each showcases new and thought-provoking films, so keep them on your radar if you’re visiting the city when they’re running.

10. For the perfect proposal

Auckland is the perfect place to pop the question, providing countless picturesque settings to mark this magic milestone.

Book a breathtaking helicopter flight to Waiheke Island with Heletranz, flying into the beautiful Mudbrick Vineyard. With its Tuscan vibe, you’ll understand why this stunning location describes itself as ‘the most romantic place on earth’. Take in the unique view of the glistening Hauraki Gulf and back across to the city while enjoying a glass of award-winning wines on the terrace.

For a night of ultimate luxury, relaxation and romance, book a night at Delamore Lodge, where you can settle down by a roaring fire or soak up the view from the heated infinity pool.

If heading back to the city, peruse the jewellery stores on Queen Street and in nearby Britomart for the ideal engagement ring – don’t miss Tiffany & Co. or Naveya & Sloane.

Then toast the next chapter of your life with a sunset champagne at the instagrammable HI-SO rooftop bar – located on the top floor of SO/ Auckland, a spectacular hotel to spend the night.

Later, celebrate at high-end Sidart or Ahi, restaurants renowned for showcasing the best seasonal produce Aotearoa has to offer. Both have picture-perfect views of the harbour and sparkling city lights.

Have a great date!