Mea CulpaCocktails are an art form at this longstanding Ponsonby Rd hotspot with a New York vibe. Regulars to the small bar make their way through an extensive drinks list, made by expert bartenders. The menu changes regularly, but right now you can't go past their rosemary-infused Bombay Sapphire special.
Madame GeorgeInspired by New York dive bars, Madame George is K Rd's newest and coolest addition. The Old Maid gin cocktail is a refreshingly minty addition to their simple yet tasty dishes. Make a night of it.
The Gin RoomThe name says it all when it comes to this Vulcan Lane hotspot, with a Gatsby-esque 1920s aesthetic and reasonably priced cocktail list. They say that while their beverages are competitively priced, they never comprise on quality – all you can ask for when ordering gin. Your most difficult task will be picking just one cocktail off their extensive list: we recommend the Bathtub Gin Sour with their Peychaud's bitters, lemon and sugar, or a Chocolate Collins, with Hayman's Gin, white cacao, lemon and soda, for those with a sweet-tooth.
Hotel Debrett HousebarThe Art Deco fit out is just as impressive as the cocktails at this stylish hotel bar. Opt for the lychee and elderflower cocktail made using New Zealand-based Rogue Society gin, or, if you prefer a simpler taste, the Green Snapper cocktail with Tanqueray, mint, chilli and coriander will leave you feeling refreshed.
FukukoNot content with being one of Auckland's best Japanese restaurants, Fukuko is also a popular Britomart bar. Their shōchū -infused gin Kappa cocktail is a "salute to the Japanese monster, who has a strong monster-love for cucumbers". If you're not a cucumber fan, the Gibson Martini, made with gin or vodka and pickled daikon, offers a tasty twist on the classic.
OdettesA popular Saturday brunch spot, Odettes is also renowned for making a good gin tipple later in the day. The eatery's Drake St. Classic boasts clean-cut flavours of lime, elderflower, Lemmy Lemonade and Hayman's London Dry Gin. The sophisticated fit out will also offer plenty of interior inspiration too.
