Thinking of a unique date idea this summer? Step outside the classic dinner and a movie - there are so many amazing dates to be had in the heart of the city! We’ve got picks for foodies, nature lovers or for those who love a bit of culture.
Indoor ideas
Play a few board games at Dice & Fork
Dice & Fork is the resident board game cafe in the heart of the city, brimming with hundreds of incredible board games from cult classics to ones you’ve never heard of. Order some drinks, there’s a great selection of wine, beer, non-alcoholic, and cocktails, and if you spend $25 then you don’t have to pay to play! Get your competitive spirit out - this could also be a great double date option too.
Explore the Auckland Gallery
Grab your special someone and take a trip to the Auckland Art Gallery for a cultured date to see the new exhibitions from international and local artists. You don’t need to be an art lover, all you need is an open mind and an appreciation of all types of creative expression.
Outdoor ideas
Have a picnic at Albert Park
For a picnic, all you need is a blanket, some delicious food and drink, and a date of course! Albert Park makes for a great backdrop - order some food from Scarecrow nearby and make yourself comfortable in the fresh air.
Take a stroll along the waterfront followed by coffee and treats from Amano bakery
There’s something incredibly satisfying about waking up bright and early for a walk - and to make it even better, stroll along the picturesque waterfront and head to Amano before, during or after for coffee and freshly baked pastries.
Enjoy an Auckland sailing experience together
Here's one for adventure lovers, experience the heart of the city on the water! This 1.5 hour sail pulls away from the harbour and takes you close up to some iconic landmarks like the Auckland Harbour Bridge. On the 50 foot yachts you will also get a choice of fresh coffee, tea or hot chocolate plus a sweet treat.
Fun activities
Bowling at Dr Rudi’s with views and pizza
Dr. Rudi’s has so much to offer from bowling to amazing drinks, stunning views and fun vibes! Take in the waterfront and grab a pizza with one, two or three feet long options.
Book a mixology master class at Bellini Bar
Learn how to make classic cocktails at Bellini Bar, a stunning oceanfront bar located inside the Hilton Auckland. A highly experienced mixologist will show you how to make three different cocktails, which include a summery Aperol Spritz, an Old Fashioned, and Espresso Martini. To go along with these amazing drinks, there will also be a selection of fine nibbles, such as a duck eclair, serrano ham and focaccia, and finishing with a caramel creme pot.
Romantic ideas
Fine dining at the Sugar Club
One of Tāmaki Makaurau’s finest dining institutions, The Sugar Club sits 53 floors above the city, perching grandly inside the Sky Tower. Expect to be completely blown away from every detail, down to the service, the atmosphere, the menus and the views - perfect for the romantics!
Enjoy the sunset & city lights from Silo Park
For a date on a budget without sacrificing the good vibes, take a sunset stroll around Silo Park. You can make your way over Wynyard Crossing and watch the boats sail across the water while the sun slowly sets and the city lights start to glow.
For foodies
Visit the Saturday Markets at Britomart
This one’s for the early birds! The Saturday Market in Britomart is filled with incredible goodies and vendors, from food to gifts to coffee. If you are in the mood for something sweet, like pastries, crepes, or chocolate, you’re sorted. If empanadas, Takoyaki, or seafood is up your alley, then look no further!
Enjoy dinner at FISH
FISH restaurant is located in the grand Hilton Hotel, known for achieving excellence in everything they do. With the Waitemata Harbour as a backdrop, FISH offers a fine dining experience with outstanding food. The Culinary Director at the Hilton is Des Harris, an award-winning chef who presents a menu filled with amazing morsels, from Mt Cook apline salmon to wagyu bresaola and duck leg confit to name a few.
Dessert at Federal Delicatessen
After a long day, sometimes a little sweet treat is all you really need, shared with someone special of course! Fed Deli is a New York style diner complete with booths and a wraparound counter which brings incredible dessert options to Federal Street. Try the three-way pie offering and make your way through a classic baked New York cheesecake, Lemon Meringue pie and Pecan Pie - yum!