The Best Of... Daylight Saving

Soak up the longer days in the city centre

Daylight saving is finally here and we're so pleased to welcome longer sun-soaked days and evenings! To make the most of it, we've pulled together a few ideas of things to do to add to your must-do list.

Watch the sunset from up high

Why not treat yourself to a sundowner like no other? Ride to the top of Auckland's iconic Sky Tower and savour a golden-hour dining experience with sweeping views of the city below. At Orbit 360º, NZ's only revolving restaurant, you'll enjoy a feast of seasonal local flavours while the skyline slowly transforms around you. SkyBar is Auckland’s ultimate sky-high escape - perched 182 metres above the city, it's an absolute treat where every sip is paired with panoramic views and unforgettable ambience.

Dine alfresco

The warmer seasons are here which means it's the perfect time to venture outdoors for some al fresco dining. Head to North Wharf, Viaduct Harbour, or the Auckland Fish Market for waterfront views and fresh flavours. Soak up the sun at favourites like Bivacco, Saint Alice, The Lula Inn and Wynyard Pavilion—just a few of the many outdoor gems waiting for you.

Explore the city centre streets

With extra daylight and warmth in the air, it’s the perfect time to explore Auckland’s lively city centre streets. Wander through Britomart for designer boutiques and top-tier dining, browse High Street for indie fashion and hidden cafés, discover art and eats along Lorne Street, and dive into the buzz of Queen Street, packed with flagship stores and iconic landmarks. Each street offers its own flavour of shopping, culture, and sunshine-soaked charm.

Grab an after-work drink on a rooftop

Soak up the sunny evenings from a picturesque rooftop bar. Gather some friends or get your colleagues together for after-work drinks at places like La Zeppa, Dr Rudi's, Rooftop Bar at QT , Bar Albert or The Glass Goose, which all boast ample outdoor space, great views, quick bites and cocktails - what more could you ask for! Check out our guide to the best rooftop bars in the city centre here.

Stroll the waterfront with a winning scoop

Keen for a cost-efficient date night or catch up with friends? Why not grab ice cream at one of the city's famous spots before heading into the fresh air for a stroll along the waterfront. If you're starting from the Downtown area, check out Giapo for a unique frozen creation, or if you're starting from Silo Park, check out Gelatiamo. Need more ideas, see our list of ice cream spots here.

Embrace sporting fun in the sun

Gather some mates and burn off some steam at one of the local parks in the city centre. Silo Parkoverlooks the waterfront and has a great outdoor basketball court to shoot some hoops, plus the Silo Park playground and playline right next to it means you can bring the younger kids along too. Victoria Park nearby also features a basketball court as well as its iconic skate park if you're eager to get back into shredding up half pipes and bowls!

Set sail with a sunset cruise

Reacquaint yourself with the 'city of sails' with this unique dining experience perfect for enjoying now the daylight savings has returned. Explore Group's Harbour dinner cruises promise delicious canapes and a welcome drink on arrival, plus a full dinner service as you take in the sea air and the spectacular sights of Auckland city while night begins to fall. Check out more about this unique experience here.