Ring in 2026: Where to Dine on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day

Josh Emett's sophisticated yet relaxed restaurant is the culmination of his remarkable culinary journey from London to New York and back to Aotearoa. Housed in the stunning lobby of The International building, Onslow celebrates New Zealand's exceptional provenance with impeccable service and timeless style.

New Year's Eve: Two sittings available – an early sitting at 5pm ($190 per person) featuring a 4-course menu with a glass of Ruinart Champagne on arrival, and a late sitting at 8.30pm ($260 per person) offering a 5-course menu with Champagne on arrival and another glass to toast at midnight. With views of the Sky Tower and its spectacular fireworks display, it's the perfect spot for celebration.

What to try: The Chatham Islands crayfish éclair – recently awarded Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 – is not to be missed, along with the Big Glory Bay salmon carved tableside.

Something of an institution in Auckland's Britomart precinct, Amano has become a beloved destination for all-day dining. Spanning two historic harbour-front buildings, this restaurant and bakery celebrates seasonal, sustainable, and local produce from New Zealand growers and farmers, delivered with humble, attentive service.

New Year's Day: Open from 7am till late (closed Christmas Day only), making it perfect for a New Year's Day brunch, lunch, or dinner. Start the year with feathery croissants and excellent coffee, or settle in for a long lunch of rustic Italian fare overlooking the Waitematā Harbour.

What to try: The scampi pasta is legendary, and the chitarra with tomato and chilli recently won Iconic Auckland Eats 2025. From the bakery, the sourdough and golden pastries are essential.

A true Wellington institution, Capitol has earned the prestigious Long-term Player Award at the 2025 Cuisine Good Food Awards – a testament to decades of consistent excellence. The menu is strongly seasonal, using the best of local seafood and idealistic, ethical produce. The food is fresh, pure, and uncluttered, reflecting the restaurant's strong relationships with local suppliers.

New Year's Eve & Day: This makes Capitol perfect for a leisurely New Year's Eve dinner or a celebratory brunch on New Year's Day. Whether it's a martini at the bar, an easy dinner, or a special occasion, you'll find the warm and vibrant Capitol dining room ready to welcome you.

What to try: The seasonal menu showcases Wellington's finest local seafood and ethical produce. Capitol's commitment to freshness and simplicity means dishes are crafted to let quality ingredients shine.

For those heading north to escape the city over the New Year period, Green's Thai Cuisine offers a wonderful dining experience in the heart of Kerikeri. Escape to the flavours of Thailand in the peaceful outdoor ambiance of this charming restaurant. Authentic Thai dishes are crafted with love, all while you're surrounded by the serenity of Kerikeri's subtropical beauty.

The Experience: Open seven days a week with Public Holiday Dining confirmed, Green's is perfect for holiday celebrations. The outdoor seating creates a relaxed, holiday atmosphere – exactly what you want when you're in the Far North. They also offer gluten-free options, takeaways, and BYO.

What to try: Expect authentic Thai favourites prepared with care, using fresh ingredients. The peaceful outdoor setting makes this the perfect spot for a leisurely summer evening meal.

In the heart of Havelock North Village, Malo offers a fresh approach to the Hawke's Bay food and wine scene. Serving honest food with a sophisticated, modern twist, Head Chef Bert van de Steeg brings his experience from fine dining and Michelin star restaurants in the Netherlands to create dishes that emphasise local, seasonal flavours.

New Year's Eve & Day: Open seven days from 11am till late, Malo is perfect for any celebration – whether it's a long New Year's Eve dinner with exquisite cocktails or a leisurely New Year's Day brunch. Their private chef catering service is also available if you're hosting at a holiday home in the region.

What to try: The seasonal menus showcase the best of Hawke's Bay produce, influenced by European and Dutch culinary traditions while celebrating New Zealand's rich ingredients. The cocktail list is exceptional – both classic favourites and Malo originals – and the wine selection highlights the region's finest.

One of the hottest spots in Christchurch, Aikman's is a local favourite in the leafy suburb of Merivale. It's the ideal venue for a stylish meal or relaxed catch-up with friends at the bar. With an expansive sun-drenched courtyard and heated louvred area, you can sit back, relax, and soak up that South Island summer.

New Year's Eve & Day: Open Monday to Thursday from 12pm till late, with Public Holiday Dining confirmed. The outdoor spaces are perfect for summer celebrations – whether you're toasting goodbye to 2025 or hello to 2026. Dog-friendly outdoor areas are a bonus for those travelling with four-legged friends.

What to try: The menu spans European-inspired dishes, gourmet pizzas, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options. With live music sometimes on offer, it's got all the ingredients for a memorable celebration.