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The Best Restaurants for New Year's in Auckland

Emma Jackson

Published 06/11/2025

The end of the year is rapidly approaching. It’s a time of reflection, goal setting for the new year, and spending time celebrating with loved ones. One of the best ways to enjoy the evening with loved ones is to book a table at one of Auckland’s top restaurants for a New Year’s Eve of ambience, delicious food, and easy conversation. This guide will help you pick the right restaurant for your New Year’s Eve plans.

Carmen Jones
382 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central, Auckland Central

It's perfect for mezze, music and wine with a bohemian buzz.

You need to try the lamb kofta or harissa-spiced cauliflower.

Look out for velvet seats, candlelight and a global playlist that brings it all together.

Abuzz with music, wine, and familial hospitality, Carmen Jones is an electric dinner spot for your New Year’s Eve celebrations. Tucked within Auckland’s iconic Karangahape Road, at the top of Queen Street, you will be right in the heart of the city’s celebrations. Built on a philosophy of “bringing cultures together through food and hospitality,” Carmen Jones delivers bold flavours of Spanish and Middle Eastern influence. Be sure to try their lamb kofta and harissa-spiced cauliflower.

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The Parasol & Swing Company
7/204 Quay Street, Viaduct

It's perfect for waterfront cocktails and watching the sun go down.

You need to try fish tacos and a spicy margarita.

Look out for rooftop views and an atmosphere that turns into a party fast.

The Parasol & Swing is the perfect choice if you are keen for a dining experience that turns into a dance party! This rooftop restaurant and bar overlooks the Auckland waterfront and is a popular spot for sunset dinner and drinks. Serving up fish tacos, burgers, spicy margaritas, and a curated cocktail menu, you can enjoy a relaxed meal while tapping your foot to the music, before migrating to the dance floor to boogie the night away!

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Nanam
178 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna

It's perfect for refined Filipino and Spanish flavours with a side of city buzz.

You need to try the taco pao or sizzling pork belly.

Look out for colourful plates, local wines and serious hospitality.

If your plans take you across Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, Nanam is a great place to dine! Located in Takapuna, Nanam Eatery offers Filipino-Spanish cuisine, where traditional flavours are blended and infused with a contemporary flair. Nanam has a philosophy of storytelling through food, taking guests on a journey with their beloved dishes, such as the Wagyu longganisa tacos, crispy lechon, and kare-kare short ribs. Sip on local wines, indulge in yummy food within a warm and inviting ambience, and celebrate your New Year’s right!

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Oyster & Chop
Market Place, Viaduct, Auckland Central

For one of the best seafood restaurants in Auckland, where the primary focus is their decadent oysters, this restaurant on the waterfront will have you ready to ring in the New Year. Famous for their combo steakhouse and fresh seafood, Oyster & Chop offers variety, sparkling water views, and personable service, right in the heart of the city. If you are looking to catch the Skytower fireworks at midnight, this is a great spot to start the evening!
The Oyster Inn
124 Ocean View Road, Oneroa

If you are jumping across the harbour to spend New Year's on Waiheke Island, The Oyster Inn is a humble and inviting spot for a celebration. Overlooking the sparkling Oneroa Bay and village, The Oyster Inn specialises in locally sourced seafood and fresh, daily delivered oysters. With its white walls, brown chairs, and blue accents, the restaurant exudes a relaxing and charming ambience perfect for a picturesque and tasty dinner on the island.