In Auckland, as in much of the rest of the country, the distinction between eating and drinking places is frequently blurred, with cafés, restaurants and bars all just points along the same continuum. The factor uniting those we've listed is their dedication to drinking : some are bars which may serve food but where drinking is the norm; others are old-time hotels in the Kiwi tradition, though even these have been dramatically smartened up and may do a sideline in inexpensive counter meals.

Drinking hours have relaxed markedly over the years to the point where they are almost unlimited and you will find places serving alcohol virtually round the clock. The exception is in Auckland's former " dry areas ", principally Grey Lynn, which borders Ponsonby, and Mount Eden. Both voted to relinquish their dry status in recent years, but you still won't find any pubs, and even licensed restaurants are scarce.