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Celebrate a Kiwi friendsmas at these iconic Auckland establishments

Best Restaurants Editorial

Published 10/12/2024

It’s nearing that time of year, and the holiday season has made a comeback. Excuses to gather family and friends have arisen amidst the Christmas buzz, with hasty reunions being organised left and right.

One of the many beauties of Christmas is that the cheerful spirit can be celebrated anywhere by anyone. Family, friends, or even your coworkers make the festivities special.

If circumstances have pushed family off the list of loved ones you can spend time with on this day, fear not. We’ve got a stellar compilation of friendsmas venues for you to take your crew.

This list contains every possible Kiwi Christmas concept. From soaking up the summer sun to eating premium New Zealand seafood. Each of these establishments will contribute a distinctly New Zealand flair to your gathering.

Sunset
Sudima Auckland City, Auckland Central

Live the high life by celebrating Christmas on Sunset Bar’s rooftop. If your idea of celebration is sitting around a table watching over the city, this place is a match made in heaven for you. Tapas dishes and cocktails make for a great time with friends, and Sunset Bar has plenty of them. Not only that, but the spacious feeling gives one the sense of having all the time in the world.
Saint Alice
Level 1/204 Quay Street, Auckland Central

After dining at Saint Alice, you’ll understand why Auckland is called the ‘City of Sails’. This establishment is a Viaduct mainstay, with iconic lamps lighting up the corner of the waterfront. Nothing fills the belly more than a family-style sharing menu, which is exactly what Saint Alice is offering on the 25th. On arrival, you’ll also get to enjoy a refreshing drink to start the mood.
Beach Club
236 Orakei Road, Remuera

Beach Club Oyster and Kitchen is the spot for when you want to soak up the sun while drinking an Aperol with a side of seafood. Add Christmas into the mix and you have the perfect recipe for a true Kiwi experience. We can’t deny that the Beach Club does a killer salmon benedict, but they also have dishes with a hint of Asian fusion for those looking for more of a kick to the tastebuds.