Looking for the perfect spot to watch the FIFA World Cup in Auckland? From historic city pubs and waterfront favourites to lively garden bars and neighbourhood locals, these are the venues showing every moment of the action.
Head to Empire Tavern's garden bar to be among football supporters, the suspiciously unavailable office workers and the occasional familiar face from Auckland's media world, all gathered around more than 10 screens spread throughout the venue. Heineken 0.0 on tap means you can enjoy the atmosphere of a busy Auckland sports bar and still make it back to that afternoon meeting (in theory).
Pouring pints since 1875, Empire Tavern has spent more than 150 years watching Auckland come and go through its doors. Located in the heart of Auckland's CBD, the historic pub has long been a gathering place for everyone from office workers and journalists to sports fans looking for a good place to watch the football.
Sweat Shop's live music stage is swapping bands for football, transforming into a giant screen for the duration of the FIFA World Cup. Enjoy American-inspired favourites like smoked meats, burgers and share plates designed for long afternoons. Pair it all with one of the venue's own beers and you’re set.
Located on Sale Street in Auckland's CBD, Sweat Shop has built a loyal following around live gigs, house-brewed beer and American-style food fresh from its smokehouse and grill. If you're looking for somewhere to watch the football with a bit more personality than your average sports bar, Sweat Shop is well worth a visit.
Fancy watching the footie with a view of Rangitoto Island? Few places offer a more idyllic Auckland setting than Moreton's. This neighbourhood favourite pairs panoramic harbour views with the sort of relaxed atmosphere that makes it a go-to for locals year-round.
As it’s perched on the waterfront in St Heliers, Moretons menu runs from fresh oysters and bang bang prawns to seafood chowder and fish and chips. Add a cold beer (or a St Heliers Sling) to game time and you've got yourself a compelling way to spend a winter afternoon.
Goode Brothers is the perfect place to enjoy a date night and keep an eye on the football at the same time.
Enjoy the beautiful game with a side of Italian hospitality, from woodfired pizzas and fresh pasta, including the restaurant's signature cacio e pepe, tossed tableside in a giant parmesan wheel. Add a Goode Brothers Birra and you're pretty much sorted.
With locations in Sylvia Park and New Lynn, this "Kiwitalian" local is an easy choice for everything from a casual catch-up to a World Cup watch party that’s fun for the whole family.
Watch the football from The Merchant's spacious outdoor courtyard while the kids tuck into pizzas and the adults debate whether it's too early for another round.
The North Shore favourite is one of the few places where football-obsessed parents, hungry kids and everyone in between can happily share a table. There's plenty of room to spread out, settle in and catch a World Cup match at your own pace.
To eat, think slow-cooked lamb shanks, Texas-style pork ribs and beer-battered fish and chips, best enjoyed with a Tuatara Hazy Pale Ale or a glass of Cloudy Bay Pelorus while the football unfolds on screen.
Looking for a specific FIFA World Cup 2026 match? These great Auckland venues are showing games throughout the tournament.
To find out which matches are being shown at your local venue, view the full fixture guide and venue listings below.
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