30 Fun Things to Do in Auckland at Night in 2022

Nightlife in Auckland is full of surprises. While there are plenty of classic things to do in Auckland at night, we have also found a few out-of-the-ordinary and fun options. Despite the city’s more sedate reputation compared to some wild spots around the world, if you know where to look in New Zealand’s largest city, you will easily find plenty of Auckland night activities.

Whether you are seeking a family-friendly early evening, an exciting adventure, an Auckland night out on the town with friends, or a late night on the wild side, this list of things to do at night in Auckland has it all.

Outdoor active things to do in Auckland at night

Are you seeking a bit of energetic or adrenaline-pumping fun? There are plenty of outdoor active things to do in Auckland at night.

Auckland night activities: kayaking and bicycle tours

Bioluminescence kayak tour

Meet at: Okura Boat Ramp, 1 Okura River Road, Okura, North Shore
There is no better way to see the bioluminescent plankton light up the night beach than from the water, and kayaking keeps you low to the water to really enjoy the treat. We were excited to find this tour in Long Bay – Okura Marine Reserve, just over the Harbour bridge. (Pick up is available from the Albany bus station if you don’t have a vehicle.) Book your Bioluminescence kayak tour here.

Electric bicycle tour of Auckland city lights

Meet at Park Hyatt Auckland, 99 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD
If bicycling the hills of Auckland seems like too much work, this guided tour is on electric bicycles. From the purple cycling path to vantage points for sparkling views, this is one of the eco-friendly night activities in Auckland. Book your electric bike tour here.

Evening hikes and night walks: glow worms and city views

Hike up a volcano

Hike up Mt Eden or One Tree Hill to enjoy the sunset. If it’s a date night activity in Auckland, why not bring a picnic dinner and make an evening of it? Or, go across the bay and watch the sunset over the city’s skyline from Mt. Victoria in Devonport.

Enjoy the night sky and see glow worms

Shakespear Park, Whangaparaoa Peninsula
If you know where to look, you can see glow worms for free in a variety of locations in the country. Our favourite, as it’s close to home, is to go on a night hike in Shakespear Park, first stopping to spot glow worms at Waterfall Gully, then on towards the lookout tower to enjoy the stars and the Milky Way in the dark night sky.

Look for kiwi birds in the wild at Tawharanui

Tawharanui Regional Park, Matakana
Tour pick-up is at the Matakana I-Site, Matakana
Tawharanui is not only one of the most beautiful of the Auckland regional parks, but it’s also the ideal habitat for the northern brown kiwi bird. While you can explore by yourself, it’s often good to go with an expert guide.

The trails are well-maintained and relatively flat. If you go on your own, be sure to bring a red flashlight to neither disturb the wildlife nor affect your night vision. Hopefully, you’ll get the chance to observe the nocturnal kiwi in his native home. Check for discounts and reserve your tour here.

Indoor active things to do in Auckland at night

For those who want a mental challenge as well as a physical one, Auckland’s escape rooms, sensory maze, and virtual reality all stay open until at least 10 pm.

An evening of fun at Holey Moley Golf Club

204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
Not your typical golf club, Holey Moley is a crazy and creative mini-golf, with snacks, dinner, a bar, and even a private karaoke room. Choose from 9, 18, or 27 holes. Loaded with laughs, it provides family fun during the day, converting to adults only after 7 pm. Located on Viaduct Harbour, it’s the ideal place to get your evening rolling before you hit the clubs. 

Try your hand at axe throwing

110 Nelson Street, Auckland CBD
Honestly, I think this is one of the more unique evening activities Auckland has to offer. And we reviewed it and captured some of our fun on video. Grab a group of friends and try your hand at axe and hatchet throwing, activities that are all about technique over strength. Book at Sweet Axe and use the code ALBOMAXE for 10% off when you book your experience.

Discover the clues at Escapade NZ

Level 1, 23 Victoria St East, Auckland CBD
If it’s an escape room you are after, certainly check out Escapade NZ. Locked in a room with your friends, you will need to solve the mystery to find the way out. Most importantly, clues are everywhere. Last time we just rocked up, and they were full. Booking ahead and save up to 50%.

Challenge yourself at the sensory maze

Lower Basement, Metro Centre, 291-297 Queen Street, Auckland CBD
Use all your senses as you pass through this unique Odyssey Sensory Maze whilst wearing a pair of crazy goggles. Filled with illusions, lighting and sound effects, scents, and strange sensations, it’s a unique experience. Reserve your sensory challenge here.

Grab your friends and head out for some multiplayer virtual reality

488 Lake Road, Takapuna
Here’s your chance to completely immerse yourself in virtual reality with friends. Reserve your virtual challenge here

Skiing, snowboarding, or tubing at SnowPlanet

91 Small Road, Silverdale
Year-round, day or night, don’t miss New Zealand’s only indoor snow resort. While skiing or snowboarding are popular, real family fun comes when you choose to tube. Be sure to dress warm, and bring gloves. Remember, it’s a steady -5ºC inside. Check for discount options and reserve your entry here.

More things to do in Auckland at night – sunsets and stargazing

Whether you climb to the top of a volcano, go out into a park, or use a telescope, you’ll want to catch a glimpse of the southern cross after you watch a colourful Auckland sunset.

Sky Tower Viewing Platform

72 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD (cnr of Federal St)
Take an elevator up to the top of the Sky Tower to enjoy views of Auckland from the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. The view at night is much different from the one during the day. If you time it right, you can go up at sunset and enjoy them both on one visit. Many people consider it an Auckland must-do. Check for discounts and reserve your entry here.

Stardome Observatory and Planetarium

670 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland
The live show is different every night and features a reproduction of the current night sky. First, as seen with the naked eye, then as if the city lights (or clouds) disappeared. Travel virtually beyond Auckland’s sky into the galaxy. After the show, head outdoors and view stars, planets, and nebulae through the courtyard telescopes. This is a family-friendly event for ages 8+. Read our review of Stardome Observatory.

Tasty things to do in Auckland at night

Auckland is filled with unique dining and dessert options. Four standouts are below. However, if you don’t see what you want here, check out these 20 Unique Auckland Restaurants.

Enjoy an artistic ice cream creation at Giapo

12 Gore Street, Auckland CBD
Giapo takes ice cream to an art form. Giapo’s handmade creations will tickle taste buds you didn’t know you had. Of all the things to do in Auckland at night, enjoying ice cream from Giapo is the one we do the most often.

The White Lady

Corner Commerce Street and Fort Street, Auckland CBD
This food truck is your chance to join locals in a late-night tradition while enjoying a tasty burger. Every night and all weekend long, this food truck is out on the same corner. It is one of the few places open very late night to eat, and there always seems to be a crowd, yet food preparation is pretty quick. It’s outdoors, and there are plastic crates to sit upon, but most people eat standing or take it to go.

Auckland Night Markets

Various locations
Auckland night markets are a mix of street food, crafts, supplies, and entertainment. There is a market almost every night in the summer. Often found in a parking garage, they rotate locations nightly.

Harbour dinner cruise

Meet at Explore kiosk inside Viaduct Harbour at the end of Quay St
A harbour cruise gets you out on the bay, which is something everyone should do at least once if you come to Auckland. One of the nicest ways to spend an evening is to get out on a sailing yacht on the Waitemata Harbour while enjoying a three-course dinner from a top restaurant; in this case, Degree. Watch the sunset from the deck, learn a bit of the history of your surroundings, and enjoy your evening. Bookings are essential and often discounted here.

Things to do at night in Auckland – without the kids

Dance, meet up with friends, or just hang out at one of the Auckland bars or nightclubs

Like most cities with universities, many of the Auckland night activities revolve around bars, many of which cater to a younger crowd and don’t get busy until late.

NOTE: Most importantly, you need a passport or an official New Zealand ID card for entry to NZ bars.

Meet other students on Auckland’s biggest bar crawl

Meets at Shadows Bar, 8 Alfred Street
If you are young at heart (but over 18) and in Auckland on a Wednesday night, join 100+ young locals and international visitors at the Frenzi Bar Crawl.

Or, visit on your own. Here are a few of the popular CBD bars to get you started

More fun things to do in Auckland at night for adults

If it is laughter that you are after, the two funniest spots in the city are Classic Comedy Club or Caluzzi Bar and Cabaret. And the casino can round out your evening.

Caluzzi Bar and Cabaret is a complete evening of fun

461 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD
Caluzzi is a complete night out with dinner and a drag queen show that will keep you laughing for hours. Not suitable for children, the adult-themed humour is loaded with double entendre. The talented “ladies” are both the servers and entertainers. Be sure to book in advance, as Caluzzi frequently fills up. Read our full review.

Enjoy the casino lifestyle

72 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD (corner of Federal St)
SkyCity is a classic casino that has all the bells and whistles of any world-class gambling establishment without the gaudy lights of Las Vegas. Open 24 hours per day for gaming, entertainment, or just catching up at one of the bars with friends, it is one of the things to do in Auckland at night or anytime.

Very late-night activities in Auckland – strictly adults only

If you are looking to take a late-night walk on the wild side, head to K-Road (officially Karangahape Road). The bohemian neighbourhood stays alive well into the wee hours of the morning with bars, strip clubs, and brothels. K-Road is especially interesting on Halloween. 

If none of these appeal to you, people-watching on K-Road is always one of the more interesting things to do in Auckland at night. There is generally a strong police presence. You will want to be more vigilant and stay out of Myers Park after dark. 

As the night progresses, the sleazier Auckland night activities seem to gain popularity. There are places I wish I didn’t know existed, and I will neither visit nor write about them.

(Read Next: 75 Free and Nearly Free Things to Do in Auckland )

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What will you do in Auckland tonight?

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Disclaimer: We are frequently provided with complimentary entrances, tours, or sample items. However, the opinions expressed here are strictly our own.