Your first look inside New Zealand's highest rooftop bar yet

The best travel itinerary to me always involve finding the local rooftop bars and enjoying the view of a city from the top. Now we get to have that experience locally as Bar Albert, New Zealand’s highest rooftop bar, has officially opened its doors! Sitting pretty high on the 38th floor of lifestyle hotel voco Auckland City Centre, Bar Albert is home to the most spectacular views of Auckland’s iconic landmarks.

This glamorous, Art-Deco inspired rooftop bar is sure to be a hit as we head into the warmer months with a wide array of locally inspired food and beverage offering, signature gins and seasonal cocktails that are themed by Auckland Street names, including Eden Crescent, Napier Street, Chancery Street and Market Place. It’s clear that Head Mixologist and Bar Manager, Chelsey York is passionate about providing quality and delicious cocktails, bringing her American flair in the fine art of making prohibition-inspired craft cocktails. Seeing her in action expertly crafting a cocktail with honey was like watching an artist at work.

Food lovers also get to enjoy a mouthwatering menu that consist of house-made pizzas, antipasto platter with selections of cured meats, pickled vegetables, artisan breads, dip and olives, small plates, and cheeses. The oysters are fresh and washed down perfectly with their signature cocktails. Often bars with unparalleled views don’t give as much consideration to their menu, relying on the views to do the work for them but that is not the case with Bar Albert.

As we usher in a new season in the next few weeks, I have a feeling we will find most of Auckland here, taking in the view, enjoying the food and drink, and let’s be honest — posting about it on social media. I know I will be!

Bar Albert is open Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm until midnight and open until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.