The Best LGBTQ Bars and Clubs in Auckland, New Zealand

A legendary fixture of Auckland’s LGBTQ club scene and definitely one of the most iconic bars on K’Road, Family Bar is particularly known for its fun, inclusive and occasionally naughty nature. Along with a bumping nightclub crowd, karaoke nights are a regular speciality. From drag queens to dancing queens, this is one of the most entertaining and popular LGBTQ spots in the city.

Serving wood-fired pizza Wednesday to Sunday with a fun wine list and NZ craft beer – though their weekend brunch is also worth pulling yourself out of bed for – Garnet Station has been flying the rainbow flag for a while now. Not only is this a great place to pick up a tasty breakfast, brunch or lunch, but you can grab dinner on the weekends and then take in one of their shows in their awesome community theatre.

Literally right across the road from Family Bar and Club is another one of K’Road’s excellent LGBTQ venues. The Eagle Bar is more low-key than its energetic, somewhat crazy neighbour, but that’s not to say it’s any less fun or appealing. In fact, The Eagle Bar is a great place to start your night before heading over the road and really letting your hair down. A great place for cocktails and conversations, you can even choose your own music on the jukebox.

One of Auckland’s – and K’Road’s, of course – newest LGBTQ bars, Good Times, is a place where all sorts of folk come together in the pursuit of a great night out. Whether you’re a local, traveller, queer or straight, this bar won’t disappoint. They have some excellent cocktails for you to sip on as well as some yummy Thai finger-food. If you’re on K’Road then make sure you swing by Good Times to sample one of their top-class margaritas.

Caluzzi is New Zealand’s original drag cabaret bar & restaurant, and has won awards to back up its reputation on the LGBTQ scene. Expect a fun, over-the-top night out with exuberant costumes, entertainment and some great food, too. If you fancy doing something a little different on your weekend out then Caluzzi is well worth checking out. The fact that you can enjoy a great dinner while taking in a unique show explains why this joint has been so popular for so long.

Quintessentially Auckland, with delicious food in an upscale-yet-casual environment, SPQR in the heart of Ponsonby is popular for its sun-drenched outdoor seating, as well a prime spot to start a night out with innovative cocktails. Although SPQR is not an out and out gay bar, it is extremely popular among the LGBTQ crowd, and the ripped torso on the sign is somewhat of a giveaway. If you’re into great food and fantastic wine then you should definitely swing by SPQR.