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 you won't forget and head up to the top of the Sky Tower to dine at Orbit 360 or the Sugar Club and marvel as Auckland is bathed in the golden light of sunset.
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, Sunset, 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.
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 Park overlooks 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!
Dine alfresco
The warmer seasons are here which means it's the perfect time to venture outdoors for some al fresco dining. The city centre is full of great dining establishments offering outdoor seating, many with great views to boast too, like North Wharf and Viaduct Harbour's waterfront restaurants and Auckland Fish Market, open until 9pm daily, and great for families with large courtyard space and nine different eateries to choose from. Check out more outdoor and waterside dining options here.
Stroll the waterfront with an award-winning ice cream in hand
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, check out our list of ice cream spots, here.
Plan an open-air date night
Shut the Front Door has plenty of great homewares to choose from to get you excited for the change in season, and warmer, longer evenings ahead. We love the look of this Wooden Picnic Table ($49.99) which will make the ultimate date night accessory! It fits either wine glasses or beer bottles and the central area is perfect for a little cheese platter and some nibbles. Simply poke it in to the ground and enjoy.
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.