Where to watch and celebrate the 2025 Melbourne Cup in Auckland

Whether you're into horse racing or not, there's no denying that having an excuse to dress up and head out with your friends on the 4th of November is the ultimate way to spend a Tuesday brunch—or a chic early dinner. We’ve rounded up the best spots in Auckland to watch and celebrate the Melbourne Cup in 2025.

SOUL Bar & Bistro
With unrivalled Auckland Harbour views and an unbeatable atmosphere, SOUL Bar is the place to be this race day. Enjoy a complimentary flute of Mumm Cordon Rouge upon arrival, and a delectable four-course lunch before the race day excitement begins. Get in on the action with TAB facilities available on-site, and keep the excitement going well into the evening with a post-race party and your chance to win best-dressed prizes. Keep an eye out for availability here.

The Living Room, Park Hyatt Auckland
For one of the most scenic spots to watch the Melbourne Cup this year, our bet is on The Living Room at the Park Hyatt Auckland. Award-winning broadcaster Wendy Petrie will be your MC for the day, providing real-time commentary and entertainment throughout this spectacular long lunch celebration, which features four hours of flowing wines and beverages, alongside a selection of canapés and generous food stations. There are prizes for best-dressed, and book nine seats and receive the 10th complimentary! Find out more here. 

Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill
No one does it like Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill, fusing fashion and sport on Melbourne Cup day. Jockeying into position, Harbourside offers not just a horse race, but a fashion show too, featuring renowned designers STORM, Hailwood, and Caitlin Crisp, who will all present on the runway. On arrival, enjoy 30 minutes of free-flowing Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne before enjoying a superb four-course lunch menu. MC Mike Peru will navigate the day, while DJ Alesha will offer a splendid soundtrack to a fantastic day out. Book your spot here.

Thirteen50
Looking for a more affordable option? Thirteen50 Kitchen provides an afternoon of indulgence and excitement curated to your best interest. Located in the Novotel Hotel by Auckland airport, Thirteen50 is also a convenient spot for travellers who want to join in on the national fun. Save room for a delectable lunch at the restaurant, with a carvery, canapés and platters, and freshen up with a glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival—all included in your ticket. Book your tickets here.

Möet Lounge
Experience luxury at the Möet Lounge—Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s newest premium venue. Reserved tables for ten offer a quieter, more elegant setting — perfect for team events. Enjoy two bottles of Moët & Chandon on arrival with your own champagne tower, a curated multi-course meal, and a premium beverage package featuring fine wines, beers, and spirits. With full waiter service, live race coverage, betting facilities, and exclusive access to the Pakuranga Hunt Room, this is racing hospitality at its finest. With a smaller group? Check out their website for other options, from complimentary admission to more luxurious packages. Discover more here.

Trivet Restaurant
Dress to impress and win fabulous prizes at the Melbourne Cup Day Long Lunch with Trivet at JW Marriott Auckland. Begin with a flute of Ruinart Champagne as you indulge in the finest flavours from land and sea at the Kaimoana Buffet. Catch every riveting moment of the race on big screens throughout the venue, and make it a day to remember. Book your seat here.

Esther Restaurant
Got some stilettos tucked away in your closet? It’s time to let them shine with Esther as the Viaduct Harbour restaurant hosts its Melbourne Cup celebration. Start your long lunch with a glass of G.H. Mumm Champagne, before sitting down to a share-style three-course meal featuring the likes of Mechoui Coastal spring lamb cutlets, Curious Croppers Heirloom tomato salad, and much more. There’s even the chance to take the crown on the ‘Fashion on the QT field’, so best fit checks at the ready, folks. Book your spot and find out more here.  

Rydges Auckland
Prefer a rooftop view for your race day? Head to Rydges Auckland, where the 10th-floor rooftop bar offers city views and race screenings. Your ticket includes a two-hour beverage package, a glass of Mumm Champagne, and 90 minutes of canapés in a setting that blends London Victoriana, Sydney mid-century, and New York sophistication. Book your tickets here.