Best of al fresco dining in Auckland

While Auckland’s weather can be variable, a good day in Tāmaki Makaurau is truly a thing of beauty. That sparkling harbour, big beautiful green parks, the vibrant streets of Ponsonby bustling with people at outdoor tables, the viaduct with views of the boats. We love to be outside soaking up that vitamin D - even better if we can combine it with some good eating as well

So where to go when that shining solar orb makes your skin feel warm and ready for some al fresco dining? Here are a few ideas

Azabu Mission Bay

Azabu’s modern Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influence is enough to sell us alone, but its location in an iconic beachfront stone building, right by the white sands of Mission Bay, seals the deal. Long lunch followed by a walk at the water’s edge, or maybe a long lunch followed by a nap on a picnic blanket in the park. Either way, you can’t lose.

Soul

Few places in Auckland have endured the way Soul has, still filling its tables in the sun at the viaduct over two decades after first opening its doors. Great internationally-influenced food with bold flavours, gorgeous interior, fun cocktails, a good selection of New Zealand wines and stunning views of the boats just outside in the harbour - sunny day joy.

Bivacco

Also in the viaduct area, Bivacco is a big venue based on fun in the sun. Whether you’re there for a spritz and antipasti, fresh pizza or a bigger shared main, you’ll be happy with what you find. Whether you want to be indoors cosied in a booth, standing at the bar or outside at tables under umbrellas, this Italian-based eatery has you covered.

Homeland

Food by one of New Zealand’s best-known chefs is one thing. Food by Peter Gordon with a view of the marina and harbour bridge is even better. Homeland is dedicated to promoting producers from Aotearoa and the Pacific in its restaurant, cooking school, and food store. Sit inside, outside or in their leafy green garden on the terrace.

Non solo pizza

Italian garden courtyard with striped banquet seating, marble tables and plenty of gorgeous plants - are you in Parnell or Tuscany? There’s nowhere better for a long Italian-style lunch with friends than NSP. The food is great, the drinks are fun and it’s always, always a good time.