As we settle into spring and look ahead to summer, festive season plans are starting to swirl — with now being the perfect time to get a jump on the busiest time of the year and lock in those all-important venues for end-of-year celebrations nice and early. In seeking a place that can cater to every kind of occasion, we find ourselves turning to SkyCity and its dazzling array of dining experiences and event-hosting facilities, promising to take any and all festivities to another level.
At the heart of SkyCity’s allure is the selection of premium dining options. Whether it’s for an end of year gathering with friends, or an all-singing, all-dancing office Christmas party, there’s a culinary delight for every proclivity, and space for all. From tantalising Japanese at MASU by Nic Watt, to the refined Pacific flavours of Metita, to contemporary Chinese cuisine at Huami, to the very best steak and seafood at newly-reopened, iconic eatery The Grill, and more, every restaurant promises an exquisite journey for the taste buds and a spectacular setting for a festive affair.
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And, if you’re getting a head start on plans for Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve (we commend your punctuality), SkyCity has you covered on all fronts, with all of the precinct’s exceptional dining destinations open for business for both occasions, and taking bookings now.
Here, we round up what is on offer at SkyCity this festive season, and why it really is the ultimate end-of-year destination, no matter what kind of event you’re planning.
Private Dining & Events
If it’s an intimate dinner you’re seeking, look no further than the selection of refined private dining rooms across SkyCity’s impressive venues. From Metita’s beautifully appointed space, in which you can enjoy Chef Michael Meredith’s exquisite, Pacific cuisine, to Cassia’s chic, contemporary hideaway, to MASU by Nic Watt’s renowned private room, in which you can partake in the restaurant’s award-winning Japanese fare, to newly-reopened The Grill’s sumptuous private room, to Huami and SkyBar; the former offering a sprawling private room that can either seat 24 or be divided to accommodate two parties of 12, the latter, providing an elegant and elevated space in the Sky Tower that boasts breathtaking views over Auckland.
Beyond private dining, if you want to look into exclusive venue hire, SkyCity has plenty of options for that too. SkyCity’s iconic Sky Tower (one of our country’s most recognisable landmarks, with breathtaking views 220 metres high) is also available for private events. Whether you’re planning a morning corporate reception, drinks and nibbles, or a private party 186 metres above Auckland. Of course, if you are interested in hiring out any of SkyCity’s exceptional restaurants exclusively, simply reach out to the team here with your requirements.
See SkyCity’s private dining options here, and its venue hire options here.
Celebrate the festive season at much-beloved, newly-reopened Auckland institution The Grill, housed in Auckland’s newest 5-star hotel — Horizon by SkyCity. The brand-new location, with a spacious outdoor courtyard, is the must-visit destination for those looking to celebrate the festive season and indulge in the best of New Zealand beef, lamb, and seafood, cooked to perfection over the Montague grill. The Grill celebrates Aotearoa’s culinary treasures, sourcing locally from artisans, fishermen, and farming families, who are dedicated to quality. Expect the finest grass-fed steaks, from 100% New Zealand owned and operated suppliers, and sustainable, line-caught fish, as well as an exceptional edit of wine showcasing New Zealand’s top vineyards.
The Grill’s brand new private dining space, ideal for gatherings of between six and 12 guests, offers a sophisticated yet inviting spot to wine and dine, with bespoke set menus, an striking cellar, and a private bathroom further adding to the exclusive experience.
Book here.
Quickly solidifying itself as a more than perfect spot for convivial meals and elevated gatherings alike, Michael Meredith’s Metita has become known for its exceptional hospitality, and nowhere is this more evident than in the eatery’s Private Dining Room — the perfect backdrop for an intimate get-together. Here, diners will find a fresh exploration of Pacific cuisine, with a menu that celebrates Meredith’s heritage and offers a unique take on traditional Pacific flavours and dishes.
Metita was designed as a place of discovery and connection, and as such, offers SkyCity’s largest group dining space, suitable for between eight and 24 guests — perfect for hosting an intimate formal meal, or a more celebratory evening with friends, family, or colleagues. The award winning space is enveloped in dark wooden panels, with an enclosed cellar housing an incredible collection of fine wines lining one wall and a striking, Pasifika-inspired artwork by Amanda Stowers of Masina Creative adorning another.
Or, if you’re looking to celebrate with a smaller group, experience the award-winning interior design by CTRL Space in Metita’s main dining room, where you’ll have front-row seats to the action unfolding in the kitchen.
Book here.
At Cassia, modern Indian flavours abound, in a contemporary, intimate, and chic eatery — within which you’ll find Cassia’s private dining room, suitable for between eight and 22 guests. Whether casual or corporate, Cassia offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere to make any occasion truly memorable. The menu, which is designed to share, is rich in flavour and diverse textures and tastes, encapsulating renowned Chef Sid Sahrawat’s signature modern Indian flare.
For larger groups of up to 40 guests, the mezzanine area is the perfect location for a group. For all bookings for groups of 13 or more, Cassia offers a selection of set menus that can be tailored to suit your group’s requirements.
If you’re looking for a larger space, Cassia’s mezzanine level accommodates between 23 to 40 guests. Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is completely separated from the rest of the restaurant, with the option to select a set menu that can be tailored to suit your group’s bespoke requirements.
Book here.
Indulge in a culinary journey that marries traditional Japanese flavours with contemporary innovation at MASU by Nic Watt. With set menus perfect for group dining, that feature the finest in fresh sashimi, seafood, meat and vegetables straight off the Robata grill, as well as a selection of maki rolls, here, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re planning a larger celebration with family, friends, or colleagues this festive season, enjoy MASU’s inviting and stylish ambiance in the Obi Room. Accommodating up to 18 guests, The Obi Room is a striking, semi-private space anchored by a solid wood table crafted from two pieces of suar hardwood and earthen walls decorated with spectacular vintage Japanese obi kimono prints. The Obi Room is framed by bubble glass which creates the impression of privacy and seclusion without being completely separated from the main dining area.
Or experience MASU’s Chef Kotastu Table, accommodating up to 12 guests, another semi-private area set at the back of the main dining room and backdropped by the restaurant’s single piece of art, a large Japanese Dragon created by calligraphy master artist Ushio Sekiguchi.
Book here.
Huami invites guests to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of China, with an exquisite menu showcasing dishes from regional provinces including Canton, Sichuan, Huaiyang and Beijing.
With a number of private rooms to choose from, Huami is the perfect spot for either an intimate family gathering, or corporate cocktail function — and everything in between. The Chinese restaurant, which boasts traditional cuisine with a modern twist, has three elegant private dining rooms. Rooms one and two seat 12 guests each and are adjoining, but can be divided. Room three caters up to six guests.
Or, for larger groups, Huami’s Perrier Jouet outdoor garden accommodates up to 40, and is the ideal spot for summer events or casual alfresco dining.
Book here.
New Zealand’s highest champagne lounge, SkyBar, can always be relied on for convivial experiences, set against striking, panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline.
For daytime celebrations this festive season, SkyBar’s Sky Tea is a must — with guests invited to indulge in 10 delectable bites featuring five savouries and five desserts by the award winning team at SUCRÉ by SkyCity, along with hot and cold drinks. For an extra touch of luxury, upgrade your experience to include a glass of Moët and Chandon Champagne or Tāmaki Tea cocktail. It’s the perfect way to celebrate of end of 2024 with friends or family.
Or, if you’re in search of an impressive event venue with a view, this is the spot. Tailor the space to match your needs, pick from the array of platter options, and trust the team to execute and bring your dream event to life.
Book here.
