Drinks by the water in New Zealand

"So you want a refreshing beverage by the water? It doesn’t get any better than Cafe Sandspit. Comfort food, a classic Kiwi wine and beer list, pure peace and quiet - a no frills cafe, just the simple things done well. Let's be honest, everyone feels at peace next to the ocean, so why spoil it with too much ‘city’ atmosphere?! The combination of the location and scenery easily earns this cafe its top ranking, just head to the gallery on their website for jaw-dropping proof. Note: Cafe Sandspit is pretty tiny so book ahead. And don’t ask for an espresso martini, it’s not that kind of place!"

"It’s never a long time between drinks for me when it comes to my love affair with this gem of a tavern. The last time I was here was for a family birthday and we drove by car. But because it is situated right on the water’s edge and in order to get the full experience of a great Kiwi day out, you need to jump on a boat and head up the inlet to the moorings outside The Riverhead. As New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern, it’s steeped in history, but when it comes to the menu and craft brews, this place is as modern as it gets. A gastro-pub on steroids, each dish bursts with fresh, seasonal flavours and local produce and meat cuts are at the forefront. Plus, as a regular, I love the fact that new dishes are added often. Their dessert is also an absolute must and I recommend that everyone at the table orders something different so you can enjoy a real taste test. I’m not sure anywhere else in Auckland does such a lip-smackingly-good, sweet finish to end what always is the perfect pub meal. Plus the cold tap beer slides down so nicely on a hot summer’s day that it’s worth taking a sober skipper so you can have a rollicking good country day out. If you’re an Aucklander and haven’t experienced The Riverhead yet then you haven’t lived. It really is that good."

"Quality beer and food in a quaint part of Auckland is why Deep Creek earns its spot on the list. The team pride themselves on delivering ‘small batch, hand crafted, flavour fueled’ beer to their patrons, which has made them quite the popular kid on the block - that and their seaside (Browns Bay) outdoor courtyard, of course. Check any one of their World Wide Web pages for updates on events, feasts and tastings, it’s well worth a look if you’re not a fan already."

"The Harbourside in the ferry building downtown has an amazing deck looking out over the harbour. If you’re not a fan of the hustle and bustle of central city life then this one might not be for you, but once you get on that deck with a beverage in your hand I can guarantee everything will be A-O.K.! It’s surprisingly relaxing watching Auckland’s commuters doing their thing as you do exactly the opposite. If you’re a seafood lover, then prepare your tastebuds for an experience too."