While the thundering race might take place across the ditch, the excitement of ‘the race that stops a nation’ has spilt across the Tasman and onto our shores where, every year, Auckland’s hospitality hotspots up the ante when it comes to hosting a crowd on their own turf. With several hotspots already sold out, including Viaduct Harbour favourite Soul Bar & Bistro and Princes Wharf’s Euro there is simply no time to waste.
Taking place on Tuesday 6th November, here’s where to secure yourself a table:
1. Forever our go-to for these such celebratory occasions, Ponsonby institution Chapel will be decking the halls with astroturf for a contagious race-day feel. Festivities will commence with Pol Roger champagne at the ready, plenty of canapés to go around, on-site TAB facilities, and stalwart DJ Thane Kirby on the decks. Tickets are $65 per person and can be organised here.
2. A new offering from Mission Bay Pavilion will see the Melbourne Cup celebrated in fine style (on the beach!) thanks to a long lunch with Champagne GH Mumm. An afternoon of fun and festivities will lead up to the big race including DJs, all day competitions, a three-course meal, and most importantly, live screening of the big race. Tickets are $60 per person and include a glass of GH Mumm on arrival. Book here.
3. Teddy’s will be joining forces with adored candle brand ECOYA for its first ever Melbourne Cup extravaganza. Taking place in the conservatory area of the restaurant, Perrier-Jouët champagne will lend a whimsical touch to the festivities with ample entertainment for an event to remember. At $100 per person, including a glass of champagne on arrival and plenty of delicious fodder, book here to secure your place.
4. Known to host an extravagant Veuve Clicquot Long Lunch that seamlessly crosses over into an afternoon fête (of course) there will be plenty of effervescence keeping things lubricated at Ostro’s Melbourne Cup affair. A highlight will be the mini runway where style-setters can strut their stuff in the hopes of winning a lavish prize. Those who miss the main affair will want to be part of the aftermath where an unmissable afterparty will see some of Auckland’s best DJs ensure the good times keep on rolling. Tickets are $150p per person including a four-course lunch and glass of Clicquot on arrival. Alternatively, you can book a table for 10 people for $1600 which includes lunch and a magnum of Champagne. Finally, the Clicquot Champagne Lawn will be perfect for a more casual offering of sharing plates, tickets for this are $60 per person (minimum 2 people) and include a platter and glass of Champagne on arrival. Click here to book.
