My boyfriend and I will be in Auckland for New Year's Eve, and we were wondering if anyone has any tips or ideas for what we can do to celebrate that evening. We're not big clubbers...mainly looking for street party or concert type event, but any suggestions are welcome. Thanks in advance!

New Years eve, whilst celebrated here is not as big as say Sydney where everyone crowds round the harbour to see the fireworks go off on the bridge.

New Years parties are in the main ones held in peoples houses, catching up with mates.

In saying that though, you will find that the bar districts like Ponsonby and the Viaduct will have a bit of life in them. Bar hopping may be the way to go to find the place with the best atmosphere.

Occassionally there are concerts put on but this is not an organised annual event here. Just not seen as popular enough to support a major event.

Keep an eye on the events sites such as below:

http://www.viewauckland.co.nz/

http://www.nzlive.com/

Thanks, Kiwi_acct! The sites look like they may be helpful as we get closer to the time. I also heard something about Mount Maunganui being a party spot that's close to Auckland...any truth in that?

Mount Manganui is on the Bay of Plenty, about four hours or so from Auckland.

Lee Ann

Normally there are fireworks going off in the city centre, but nothing like what Sydney experiences.
Whangamata (seaside town) on the Coromandel is where hords of young people go - 2.5 hours drive away.