Hidden bars in the city centre

There's nothing better than being the 'I Know a Spot' friend. The person who always knows about the latest opening, the tucked away hidden gem, the unbelievable bar behind the unassuming entryway. We've hunted high and low around the city centre for the bougie basement bars, the hidden hideaways, the secret entrances to bring you the best of the city's speakeasys, winebars and curated cocktail lounges.

Whether you are on a date you want to impress, or just want to surprise friends from out of town, this list will help you to find the coolest hidden gems in Auckland city centre.  

Ground Wine Bar | O'Connell Street

Cahn's wine shop is an established authority on wine in the city centre - but what you might not know is that they've opened a hidden wine bar beneath their retail premises! Go past the wine shop's doorway and head down the staircase by the 1930s style lift. At the bottom, you'll discover a hidden oasis, a warm and inviting space full of quirky touches and of course, a stunning wine selection. Cosy and relaxed, it's the perfect place to pass an evening.

Caretaker | Roukai Lane

Below the ground level of Roukai Lane hides a cocktail bar of unique charm and cool ambience - Caretaker. Reminiscent of speakeasies of the past, this dimly lit bar with beautifully arranged leather seating is cosy in all the right ways. 

Quinn Bar | 50 Mill's Lane

Have you heard about this new tucked away little bar on Mill's Lane? Quinn Bar is a tiny cocktail spot, designed for intimate get togethers and enjoying stunning cocktails. Their cocktail menu features imaginative takes on classics and entirely new creations, it's the perfect pre-dinner (and post-dinner!) spot. 

Panacea | 23 O'Connell Street

Hidden away on O'Connell Street, this new bar serves delicious, inventive small-batch cocktails. Featuring an ever-changing menu of cocktails using locally sourced ingredients that are gathered fresh each morning.