The Best Sports Bars in Auckland, New Zealand

Since opening its doors in 2002, The Fox has carved a strong reputation as the best bar to watch a sports match in New Zealand. Just about every major game, national and international, is represented in the bar’s events calendar – and they even take screening requests if there’s something avid sports fans might think is missing. This Viaduct Harbour venue is also popular for its food, late-night licence (ideal for international games), 11 tap beers and a private gaming lounge.

The Fox Sporting Bar and Restaurant, 85/87 Customs Street West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. +64 9-358 2767

If you can’t score yourself some tickets to a match at Eden Park, The Kingslander is definitely the next best thing. This classic establishment is the usual go-to for pre and post match drinks for those visiting its neighbouring stadium, and is the next best thing for catching a sporting event from the screen-based sidelines. Its spacious indoor area is dotted with TV screens, so you won’t ever feel like you’re missing any of the action.

The Paddington is a Parnell bar that’s just as great for watching a live sporting event as it is for grabbing some dinner before heading to a concert at the Spark Arena (formerly known as the Vector Arena to seasoned music fans). The main bar area boasts a solid seven screens for your entertainment. Those who want a more exclusive experience can also book a private viewing room – complete with a massive projector screen – for themselves plus 10 of their sports-loving friends.

The Paddington Bar and Restaurant, 117 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell, Auckland 1142, New Zealand. +64 9-309 3586

This Ponsonby gastropub has always been good to sports spectators – but after a face lift in 2014, it became even better. A great selection of food and craft beers add to The Cav’s appeal. There’s a big screen indoors and smaller ones out the back deck that for patrons wanting to support their team from as close as possible. Call in advance to book a table or come in early as this place, deservedly, gets quite busy.

At first glance, Britomart Country Club is not the first place one would label as a ‘sports bar’. And it’s true, the venue does wear several hats at once: from trendy music joint to upmarket cocktail bar and, indeed, a sports lovers’ happy place. Venture into this rustic-chic shipping container venue to watch everything from the traditional rugby and cricket matches to mainstream favourites like basketball.

Britomart Country Club, 31 Galway St, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. +64 9-303 2541

If you’re looking for a buzzing sporting venue in Takapuna, head over to The Elephant Wrestler. Supposedly named after a local wrestling legend who was known for getting into tussles with elephants, this friendly venue is known for its fun lineup of events (think lip-sync battles and weekly quizzes) as well as an epic calendar of sporting greats. Wide screen TVs and a spacious garden with bar with a retractable roof makes this a great spectating contender for all seasons.

The Elephant Wrestler, 138 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand. +64 9-489 8030

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Another North Shore sporting great – this time in Devonport. The Patriot is an English-style pub just a 15-minute ferry ride from Auckland city. With a large screen that televises all major sporting events, more than 10 specialty beers on tap, and a great selection of traditional pub dishes, this is a good option for those who like the idea of matches with a good sit-down meal.

The Patriot, 14 Victoria Rd, Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand. +64 9-445 3010

This Irish-style pub on Auckland’s scenic Viaduct Harbour is a good go-to for live music, authentic Irish cuisine, a good pint and – of course – sports matches aplenty. O’Hagan’s is known for airing a large variety of major sporting events, from rugby matches to boxing and everything else in between. With large screens indoors and out, this is a good place to see your favourite sports stars any time of year.

O’Hagan’s, 103 Customs Street West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. +64 9-363 2106

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