Rooftop at QT

QT Auckland’s in-house bar is a worthy destination regardless of whether you’re staying at the hotel. Find it on the sixth floor, with views of the cityscape and the harbour beyond.

The large, open-air terrace is Rooftop’s key feature and its easy flow-on from inside means the whole space has an indoor-outdoor feel. Cushioned bench seating presses up against high glass partitions that shield from the drop.

An extensive cocktail menu includes Espresso Martinis on tap and a selection of signatures such as the Rosa – strawberry, Malfy Rosa gin, Rosso Antico vermouth, Peychaud’s Aperitivo, basil and citrus. The team will happily whip up your favourite classic, and the wine list mostly consists of New Zealand bottles with a few additions from France, Spain and Italy.

Beer-wise, there’s Heineken and Tuatara on tap, along with some options from Black Dog Brewery, and cans are available from craft brewers Garage Project, Behemoth and Fortune Favours.

Downstairs, Sean Connolly’s Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant Esther services the rooftop as well. Order from a range of sharing plates including antipasti and mezze platters, Te Matuku oysters from Waiheke Island, Turkish fried chicken with green goddess dressing, and lamb souvlaki on pita bread.