Amidst the new Park Hyatt Auckland’s extensive hospitality offering is a polished, decadent bar that we’d gladly while away a few hours winding down from a long day’s work — or, if you’re lucky, a day on the water.

Opulent yet not ostentatious, Captain’s Bar will have you feeling at home as soon as you walk in, with its dark leather couches, wooden walls and impressive granite fireplace. Concocting classic cocktails with a local twist that draw on an extensive list of fortified spirits, the main focus of Captain’s Bar is rum, of which there are 60 varieties on offer.

While Auckland has long embraced gin and whisky as championed spirits on cocktail menus, the team at Park Hyatt Auckland noticed a lack of recognition for rum, a spirit executive chef Brent Martin came to understand from his time living in the Carribbean.

As well as a comprehensive list of craft beers, wines, and spirits by the glass, expect a hefty selection of delicious cocktails. From the N3 which blends Plantation 3 Stars Silver Rum, coconut water, Falernum – a fragrant syrup – and spiced pineapple juice; to the N10 comprising Mt Gay XO rum, Disaronno Amaretto, Frangelico, dark chocolate and bitters, the selection is appetisingly unique.

The food menu has been designed to complement the drinks offering perfectly, with a focus on Latin-style tapas, snacks and sharing platters. Find the likes of spicy chorizo patatas bravas, Caribbean prawn ceviche tostadas, and signature Kikorangi cheese empanadas made with a recipe that runs in the family of Captain’s Bar chef Leandro Minelli.

While the evenings are still cool, we’ll be cosying up by the fireplace, and when the mercury rises we recommend taking advantage of balmier nights on the outdoor terrace, soaking up the stunning view over the water and the cityscape. With a delicious cocktail in hand, conjuring to mind a tropical island, what could be better?