Drawing convivial crowds, dressed to the nines, the annual Melbourne Cup is always a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until early November, so popular are the viewing parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release their dedicated, Melbourne Cup events early, and tend to sell out within hours. And considering that four of our favourite destinations have just released tickets to their Melbourne Cup events, we suggest securing your spot now to be part of an atmosphere as lively as all the action on the racecourse.
Bivacco
Marking Bivacco’s first foray into Melbourne Cup celebrations, this event is set to be one you certainly don’t want to miss. Not only will your afternoon here afford you sun-drenched seating and unparalleled views of the sparkling Viaduct Harbour waterfront, but it will also include a spectacular, four-course long Italian lunch with plenty of Moët & Chandon Champagne (including a flute on arrival), fashion by Superette and Fashions in the Field, a line-up of renowned DJs, all the Melbourne Cup action streamed on large screens and plenty of games, sweeps and prizes to be won. Gearing up to be the party of the year, tickets are $250 per person and can be secured by calling (09) 801 6505.
Non Solo Pizza
Channel the spirit of the Italian coast at Non Solo Pizza’s decidedly chic Melbourne Cup affair. There, guests will be greeted with flutes of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on arrival before delving into a delectable, four-course long lunch, featuring a number of quintessential Non Solo Pizza dishes. Those who really dress for the occasion will want to be a part of NSP’s Fashions in the Field competition, while others can just sit back and enjoy all the racing action live on big screens. There will even be a TAB Big Race Day Pack on site. A raft of rousing DJs will play the soundtrack to the day and keep the vibes going well into the evening, making this one of the very best places to be for those seeking a party to remember. Tickets are $200 per person, so gather your friends and book your spot here.
MoVida
Not only does it feel entirely appropriate to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at an establishment that actually started in Melbourne, but MoVida is putting on a serious show this year, with a celebration for the ages. There, in MoVida’s exquisite dining room, high above the Auckland waterfront, guests will enjoy flutes of Veuve Clicquot on arrival, followed by an exceptional, five-course sharing menu, all while taking in the exciting Melbourne Cup action live on a number of large TV screens. There will also be a Seafarers’ Fashions in the Fields competition with a number of incredible prizes up for grabs, alongside live entertainment, DJs and music to keep spirits high long after the final race is done. There are two package options available for those wanting to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at MoVida: the $250 package will afford diners a premium seat in MoVida’s dining room, while the $200 package includes high-top seating only (and can only be booked for a maximum party of four). So start making your plans and deciding who you want to celebrate the big day with. Tickets can be bought here.
Bar Non Solo
Adjacent to MoVida is the sleek Bar Non Solo, where those seeking a sophisticated Melbourne Cup celebration can get amongst all the action thanks to live streams on big screens, plenty of Veuve Cliquot Champagne, a heavenly four-course, Italian sharing menu and a number of iconic Italian cocktails. Alongside entry into Seafarers’ Fashions in the Field, guests will also be treated to live entertainment and music all afternoon and well into the evening. There is a $200 Melbourne Cup package and a $180 Melbourne Cup package to be bought for Bar Non Solo’s festivities, with former including seating in the restaurant and the latter offering high-top seating only (which can only be booked for a maximum party of four). Choose the ticket that suits you best and secure a coveted spot, here.
