Gala dinners vary in their formality and are held for an array of reasons, from decadent and formal to relaxed and carefree. Whether your gala dinner is part of a fundraising event, an awards night, or a product launch, you’re going to need a premium venue that provides a beautiful atmosphere and delicious catering options. The following Auckland venues are among the finest gala dinner venues that the city has to offer. If you're looking for more venue options, take a look at our comprehensive guide to Auckland venues here.

Rydges Formosa Golf Resort 

Image sourced from Rydges

Rydges Formosa Golf Resort is an awe-inspiring coastal venue in Beachlands. This idyllic venue boasts top-tier spaces, facilities, hospitality and breathtaking views. An incredible space for your gala dinner, Nineteen Restaurant within Rydges presents tailored dining menus with chef-driven flair. 

The Trusts Arena

Image by The Trusts Arena

Few venues offer excellence on the scale that The Trusts Arena does. Catering banquets for up to 3,000 guests, The Trusts Arena hosts gala dinners with world-class catering and excellent event management. With tailored packages to suit your event needs, The Trusts Arena team really are the hosts with the most.

Pullman Auckland Hotel

Image by Pullman Auckland Hotel 

Designed to impress, Pullman Auckland is an event planner’s paradise. Boasting 3,000 sqm of event spaces ranging from ballrooms to boardrooms, it's the perfect canvas for your next gala dinner. With an emphasis on convenience, events at Pullman Auckland are complete with attentive service, high-end facilities, valet parking, catering, and of course, luxurious accommodation options.

Wynyard Pavilion

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Not only a wonderful spot for a post-work cocktail, Wynyard Pavilion functions as an event space for up to 600 guests. Built in the 1930's, this heritage space has been restored by award-winning designers in recent years. Perched on the water's edge, enjoy seaside views, impeccable service, delicious beverages and a fresh menu.

Glasshouse

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There are few venues as timeless and iconic as Glasshouse. Boasting fantastic natural light throughout the day and an outdoor courtyard feel during the evening - Glasshouse can host dinners of up to 160 guests. The landmark of Morningside, Glasshouse is just a short drive from the City and easy to access. With the help of their fantastic team of preferred caterers and suppliers, Glasshouse will help you curate the gala dinner of your dreams.

Little Creatures

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Once a military base and also the birthplace of the commercial aviation industry in New Zealand, Little Creatures has blossomed into a hotspot for activity and events. If you want to go all out, hire out all of Little Creatures, with a capacity of 550 guests. They offer a host of sumptuous catering options, high-end audiovisual equipment, plenty of on-site parking, and attentive event coordination throughout. 

Hilton

Image by Hilton, Auckland

A first-class experience awaits you at Hilton Auckland. As one of the most iconic hotel brands out there, the Auckland branch certainly lives up to its name. Set elegantly on the water's edge, Hilton is comprised of 7 multi-purpose functions spaces, accommodating up to 700 guests in total.

St. Matthew’s

Image by St Matthew's

Pairing neo-gothic architecture with timeless elegance, St Matthew's is an Auckland venue that lends itself to gala dinners of up to 250 guests. This iconic Auckland venue makes the ideal location for inner-city events, including gala dinners, cocktail nights and more. With a sophisticated, characterful charm to it, your gala dinner will be the talk of the town.

Kauri Bay Boomrock

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Kauri Bay Boomrock is a place where the air is clearer, and the views are awe-inspiring. Set on 500 acres of Clevedon countryside, Kauri Bay Boomrock is unrivalled in its beauty and versatility. Providing a beautiful dining space for up to 200 guests and bespoke set menu options - discover Kauri Bay Boomrock for your gala dinner.

The Boat House

Image by The Boathouse, Riverhad

With quintessential New Zealand views, centenarian oak trees and picturesque gardens - you'll find The Boat House sat by the water. Only 25 minutes drive from Auckland's CBD; you can also arrive via ferry or your own water vessel. With your catering taken care of by on-site suppliers, plenty of natural light and multiple spaces to choose between, The Riverhead is one of the finest gala dinner venues on the fringes of Auckland.

Bruce Pulman Park

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Bruce Pulman Park is a multi-purpose venue located in Papakura, South Auckland. The property includes 64 hectares of greenery and park facilities, while the venue boasts 10 event spaces and a 5,000-guest capacity. It's safe to say there's plenty of space for your gala dinner!

The Grounds at Whoa! Studios

Image by The Grounds at Whoa! Studios

Unique in its essence, The Grounds is an Auckland venue with a dynamic offering. With 5 different spaces including a stage set, film studio, expansive outdoor area and a beautiful restaurant space - The Grounds is a venue that lives and breathes creativity. With a hands-on approach, The Grounds team will guide you through the planning of your event so you can sit back and enjoy.

Smiths & Stables

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Discover character-filled event spaces, 50 minutes North of Auckland — at Smith & Stables. Mix and match until you've found your perfect combination - Smiths & Stables are two rustic event spaces which can be used individually or together, depending on your event needs. Customisable spaces, bespoke menus, creative cocktails and amazing service make Smiths & Stables the go-to for gala dinners in the Northern Auckland area.

Markovina Vineyard Estate

Image by Zara Booth Photography

Markovina Estate is one of Kumeu's longest-standing wedding and event venues, family-owned and operated for more than fifty years. The purpose-built building dines anywhere from 50 to 300 guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood through the space, and the schist fireplace adds a cozy touch for the colder months. The Markovina Estate team takes pride in delivering memorable culinary experiences. With a range of catering packages available, they can provide everything from beverages to canapés, dinner, and dessert.

Abbeville Estate

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Abbeville Estate is a lovingly-restored heritage home that now hosts some of the most gorgeous events in Auckland. Built in 1854, the historical Homestead can dine up to 110 guests. In partnership with The Great Catering Company, all catering is prepared onsite using produce from the gardens. For a gala dinner with country charm and elegance, discover Abbeville Estate.

Tui Hills

Image by Smoke Photography

If you're looking for a native bush-covered venue that feels miles away from the city noise, consider Tui Hills. Nestled in the Waitakere Ranges, Tui Hills is a refreshing and fully equipped venue for your gala dinner. Tui Hills provides flexible menus, onsite activities and beautiful spaces to wine and dine the night away.

The Officers Mess

Image by Jonathan Suckling 

Soak up the sunshine and stunning views at Takapuna’s best clifftop venue, The Officers Mess. With bespoke dining menus by the award-winning chef, Jeremy Schmid - your guests are certainly in for a treat. The Officers Mess works well for 40-200 person events and is available for both partial and exclusive hire. Surrounded by Fort Takapuna, convenience meets character at The Officers Mess.

Fantail & Turtle

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With an easygoing vibe and plenty of space, Fantail & Turtle is an eatery that has it all: two bars, a community brewery, an expansive all-weather outdoor area and plenty of local taps to choose from. This Auckland venue is ideal for gala dinners, hosting up to 200 guests and offering a seasonal sharing menu like none other. They also feature fantastic on-site catering and a drinks list that includes local craft beer, real ale, cider, over fifty wines, kombucha and more. Fantail & Turtle is a flexible and relaxed Auckland venue, ideal for your upcoming gala dinner.

Okahu

Image by Okahu

In the middle of Tāmaki Drive you'll find Okahu - a premium wedding and event venue. Extending over the water, Okahu offers uninterrupted views of Rangitoto Island. The Okahu team can provide as much or as little assistance as you need, whether you're seeking an all-inclusive package or arranging your own catering and event management. Dining up the 180 guests, Okahu is a beautiful spot for a gala dinner overlooking the ocean.

The Hunting Lodge

Image by The Hunting Lodge

Stretching across 80 acres, The Hunting Lodge boasts the historic and iconic Hunting Lodge Homestead - the ideal location for your upcoming gala dinner. This Auckland venue adapts to the atmosphere and tone of every event, whether you're hosting a cosy wedding or a cocktail party for hundreds. Choose from their emerald lawns, rustic barn and restaurant when planning your gala dinner. The Hunting Lodge offers bespoke packages for events, helping you to put together the necessities in one, neat bundle to make planning and executing your event a breeze. This Auckland venue is at the top of the list when it comes to superb service, featuring mouthwatering catering options, audiovisual supplies and assistance, event expertise and more.

Everybody’s

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Everybody’s is, without a doubt, one of Auckland’s hotspots, boasting close proximity to the trendy nightclub, The Roxy. This restaurant-cum-bar and function space has customisable function menus that can turn any gala dinner into one that you and your guests won't soon forget; the stunning interior design will give your gala dinner the wow factor that every event planner dreams of. When it comes to hosting events, Everybody's is a favourite Auckland venue for its flexibility and endless styling options, guaranteeing a gala dinner that will make a lasting statement.

Ascension Wine Estate

Image by Ascension Wine Estate

This award-winning estate and gala dinner venue is found in Matakana, just 45 minutes north of Auckland. Handcrafted wine and inspiring menus are Ascension’s passion, promising you expertly catered menus and beverages throughout your gala dinner. The restaurant within Ascension Wine Estate is a top-rated restaurant of the Matakana region with a focus on Italian and Mediterranean flavours. The short trip out of the hustle and bustle of the city is entirely worth it for the incredible food and atmosphere that Ascension Wine Estate has to offer when hosting your Auckland gala dinner.

Auckland Art Gallery

Image by Hawkins

The perfect venue for a formal gala event that intends to invoke glamour and class. The Auckland Art Gallery building juxtaposes the old and the new - with its stunning modern glass and kauri structure connecting to the original Victorian-style building. Multiple function spaces are available, including the North Atrium, Lower Grey Gallery, Mackelvie Gallery, and the East Terrace, each with varying capacities and styles. You are bound to find the perfect space for your gala event. Exclusively catered by the reputable team at Urban Gourmet you can rest assured that your guests will love the food. Once you’ve booked the venue and selected your menu options, Urban Gourmet will privately host a tasting for you so you can be certain the food is up to your standards.