Besides the beautiful scenery and bustling city streets, Auckland is filled with hidden gems and activities that are off the beaten track. If you’re looking for something fun to do over the cooler months that are slightly out of the ordinary, then here are 6 quirky places in Auckland you need to visit this winter.
1. Candlelight Concert
Enjoy a classical music concert illuminated by candlelight in some of the most iconic venues in Auckland. Candlelight Concerts offer a variety of shows from different genres including Abba, Queen, Vivaldi and more!
Attendees can enjoy classical performances by professional musicians, while marvelling at the stunning interiors illuminated by the glow of hundreds of candles. This is a rare opportunity to experience musical concerts in such exquisite settings around Auckland.
đź“ŤLocation: Various
2. Escapade Escape Room
Put a little spin on your usual night out, and try your hand at an escape room! Your group will have 90 minutes to escape a locked room, using your best detective work and puzzle-solving abilities. You can choose from a variety of different themed rooms, such as Galactic Cantina, The Bach, The Boathouse, The Tavern and Old School. Do you think you’ll be able to find your way out before the time runs out?Â
đź“Ť23 Victoria Street East
3. Studio 54 Roller Disco
It’s time to put on your best flared pants and headbands, because Studio 54 Roller Disco is transporting you back to the 70s! This event is the ultimate 70s-themed roller disco party on Auckland’s North Shore. Experience a night of groovy vibes as you skate along to some classic disco beats, complete with a live DJ and a disco ball. You can also enjoy drinks and refreshments at the venue to refuel between busting moves on your skates. See you on the flip side.Â
đź“ŤLocation: 30 Downing Street
4. Eutopia Cafe
Eutopia Cafe is a beautiful hidden eatery and art space just one hour north from Auckland. The cafe looks like something out of a fairytale, decked out in bird designs, sculptures, stone tables, painted flowers and even a roof carved like bird wings. While you’re there, you can admire a unique water fountain as well as dine in rooms that mirror underwater caves. If you’re searching for the perfect day trip, why not pop into this otherworldly café in Kaiwaka to admire art and indulge in a magical meal in a quirky setting.
đź“ŤLocation: 1955 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka
5. ACS Bar
ACS is a cosy cocktail bar situated above The Broken Lantern on Ponsonby Road. The plush cocktail bar is only accessible through a secret staircase and a hidden door, which requires a password that’s changed weekly. Inside, the lounge features a funky 70s and 80s-inspired interior playing soulful tunes that create a New York speakeasy vibe. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, you’d better start looking for password clues on ACS’s Instagram page.Â
đź“ŤLocation: Level 2, 198 Ponsonby Road
6. Catfe Mao
If you’re in need of some love from a furry friend, then Catfe Mao is the place for you. The café adopts cats who have not found their forever home, providing them with safety, health and security. Stop by for delicious treats such as bubble tea and cheesecake, while a cheerful kitty purrs on your lap. The entry fee from each visitor goes towards looking after the cats, so it’s a great way to donate to a good cause too!
đź“ŤLocation: 3C/80 Broadway, Newmarket