The city of Auckland is notable for its natural attractions and scenic views. But when the sun sets, locals and tourists start to flock the city’s best known clubs in order to immerse themselves in the electric and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to spend the night away dancing or listening to the best renowned DJs, here are the best clubs in Auckland for your hangover pleasure!
Impala – Auckland CBD
Impala is one of the best clubs in Auckland. It is always a top recommendation for those looking for a great night out. While relatively new to the city, it quickly became a well-known destination for those looking for a fun way to spend the night. This club draws crowds from all over the city with an impressive lineup of DJs and artists.
This world-class venue was once the site of the infamous CODE Club located in a basement in Shortland Street, Auckland CBD. When you come to Impala, expect an epic night of music and nightlife. On weekends, you can experience the best of techno and house music from some of the best D.J’s in this genre.
Cassette Nine – Auckland CBD
Cassette Nine has a different vibe to Impala. Nonetheless, it is one of the best clubs in Auckland for those seeking both visual and aural feast. It is the best place to escape to if you want to unwind from your Monday to Friday grind. This club stays open until 4 in the morning, so you can definitely stay up all night.
Low lit with bassy tunes in the background, Cassette Nine is as eclectic as its clientele as it serves up international bands and DJs. If you’re up for it, take over the dance floor with its banging tunes and anthems.
They often have backpacker nights on Tuesday’s with cheap drinks and other fun specials.
Ponsonby Social Club – Ponsonby
From its epic tunes flying out from the DJ booth to an equally epic lineup of drinks, Ponsonby Social Club is one of the hottest nightlife destinations in Auckland. Make sure to arrive early because patrons come in like moths here and is packed out pretty early.
This night club is famous for its front courtyard and dance floor. If you want to enjoy an epic night, Ponsonby Social Club won’t disappoint.
AV Club – Auckland CBD
If you are looking for the best nightclub offering electronic music, AV Club is for you. This type of specific electronic music is rarely played in most nightclubs in Auckland so this is an excellent spot for that reason.
You can check out their Facebook page wherein they provide a detailed schedule of upcoming events. Therefore, you know what to expect and when to visit, depending on the type of gig you want to enjoy. There is also an outside area that you can go to if you want to take a break from all the music and dancing.
Family Bar – K Road
Family Bar is a K Road legend. Proudly gay-owned, this is one of the most unique nightlife destinations in Auckland. This has been the go-to choice for those seeking over-the-top dance parties, especially since this club is open much later than most other nightclubs in the inner city.
The dance floor is the hottest spot in this nightclub. You can definitely experience the smorgasbord of brilliance and fun, whether you are on the dance floor yourself or viewing the action. This place is loud, fun, and a lot of naughty. Bring your drag queen friends along for a fun night out at the Family Bar.
Lots of cheap drink specials here so this is a backpacker favourite!
Infinity – Auckland CBD
Another excellent choice for nightlife aficionados in Auckland CBD is Infinity. Located a few blocks from the famous Sky Tower, this club is open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. This club is a notable destination for those wanting to enjoy hip-hop and RnB music.
Like most other clubs on this list, they do have a dance floor. The music that is featured varies significantly based on which DJs are on the booth. There is a great mix of tunes that you can enjoy from afro beats, to reggae, and funk. You can also tuck intimately into their exclusive lounge if you want to enjoy the music in private
Grand Central – Ponsonby
The Grand Central is another infamous spot for those looking for a vibrant nightlife in Auckland. Located in Ponsonby, this nightclub is casually referred to as GC by its loyal patrons. It boasts of a laid back and friendly attitude. In a lot of ways, it has an unpretentious vibe about it, which is loved by its patrons.
When you go to the Grand Central, leave your inhibitions at the door and let yourself loose to the live music. It is open until the wee small hours of the morning so you can stay for as long as you want, if you have the energy to groove through the night.
1885 – Britomart
If you are looking for a unique clubbing experience, 1885 is the choice for you. It comes with a spacious yet dark interior, but don’t let that fool you as this is one of the local favourites when it comes to offering the best beats.
1885 boasts of having plenty of bars to enjoy your favourite cocktails and a massive dance floor if you’re up for some dancing. Club-goers are sure to have a good time because there are plenty of things to keep you occupied. Don’t forget to order the bottle service if you want to go fancy!
Ink Bar – K Road
The Ink Bar is another K road destination that you cannot miss if you are searching for the best clubs in Auckland. Since it opened, Ink Bar is the go-to choice for those looking to enjoy tech and house dance music.
But unlike most other clubs on this list, Ink Bar has a casual vibe to it. Don’t expect cutting-edge fashion or bottle service here. There’s no VIP lounge either. Come as you are and enjoy the house and techno music that the DJ spins for the night. While not flashy, there are a host of international and resident DJs playing here on Fridays. One of my local haunts for sure!
Face Club – Auckland CBD
Rounding up this list of the best clubs in Auckland is Face Club, another CBD hot spot. This is recognized as the hottest Asian nightclub in the CBD area. Featuring laser lights and rooms in front of the DJ booth, this club comes to life as soon as you step in.
There are VIP services and lounge booths for those looking for their private space. Everyone is welcome to visit the club, especially those into an impressive audio-visual display.
If you are looking for other party destinations in Auckland, there are more options than the ones listed however the above are some of the most unique and well-known ones. Don’t forget to share your favourites if I missed any of them in the comments below!
Need something to do during the day before the clubs open? Then check out my Top 45 Things to do in Auckland - A Local's Guide
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