About Regatta Bar And Eatery
Regatta Bar & Eatery is a waterfront restaurant and bar located on Takapuna Beach in Auckland’s North Shore. It opened in the mid-2010s as a high-end seafood-focused venue and has become a local icon for its seaside ambience and award-winning design. The decor, by architects CtrlSpace, is inspired by the ocean – with three-dimensional fish-scale tiles on the bar front, rope-textured ceilings and “large scale crayfish pot lights” over the dining area (www.resene.co.nz ) (www.resene.co.nz ). Floor-to-ceiling glass walls (framed by native pohutukawa trees) flood the interior with light and ensure “everyone has] a glimpse of the ocean from anywhere in the space” ([www.resene.co.nz ) (www.resene.co.nz ). This mix of striking nautical motifs and tropical foliage was recognized with design awards (Resene Total Colour Awards 2015) and makes Regatta stand out on the Takapuna waterfront. Signature features include a raised pergola “grandstand” built into the bar space to celebrate the view (www.resene.co.nz ), and an open-air beachside “Sunshine Bar” area with private cabanas for island-style lounging. Together, these seaside design elements – plus reliable fresh local seafood and an emphasis on New Zealand craft beer and wine – give Regatta its unique character in Auckland’s dining scene (stargroup.nz ) (www.resene.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Although Regatta is primarily an all-day restaurant, it hosts a variety of special events and parties, especially in spring and summer. Local promoters often stage one-day festivals on the beachfront decks. For example, the annual *Scenic Sounds Block Party* (November each year) takes over both Regatta and neighboring Rosie’s Cantina for a night of DJs and dance music. The Scenic Sounds events feature a large lineup of international and New Zealand electronic artists (past lineups have included DJs like The Jungle Giants (DJ set), Loods, Frank Booker, Matty the Friend, and others) (www.ilovetakapuna.co.nz ) (stargroup.nz ). These are 18+ events, with advanced tickets typically sold out quickly (around NZD $54–70 in 2024 (ra.co )). The venue also participates in community dining programs – for example, during the annual “Taste of Takapuna” festival in October, Regatta creates a special menu item (in 2025 it offered a Foveaux paua arancini starter for NZD $25 (stargroup.nz )) as part of a culinary competition. In the holiday season the venue promotes group bookings and seasonal menus (e.g. Christmas party packages) and may feature festive decorations or menu items. Weekends often see casual live music or DJs at the bar (particularly sunset sessions on the Sunshine Bar patio), and holiday sports or cultural events might be screened inside on big screens. In short, Regatta’s programming ranges from daytime dining and weekend brunches to late-night cocktail parties – with the biggest events being large public festivals on the beach patio and bar rooftop.
Tickets and Booking
As a dining venue, most visits to Regatta require no ticket – you can simply book a table or walk in for food and drinks. Reservations are recommended for dinner or large groups, especially on Friday/Saturday nights and during festivals. You can reserve a table through Star Group’s booking system (often by phone or their online portal) or by emailing the events team. For special ticketed events (like Scenic Sounds), tickets are sold in advance through official promoters (e.g. event organizers or online ticket vendors). These events typically are advertised 1–2 months ahead of time, and the tickets can range from roughly NZD $50 to $70 per person (ra.co ). Box-office sales and door tickets, if any, depend on the event. In general, the strategy for popular shows is to secure tickets early via the official sale channel, as venues like this often sell out. There is no conventional “box office” at Regatta – event attendees are usually emailed barcodes or receive mobile tickets. On ticketed event days, doors usually open around 5:00pm (as for Scenic Sounds) and attendees must be over the minimum age (typically 18+ for late-night music events) (ra.co ). For normal dining, you can simply walk in or reserve; table charges are standard à la carte rates (most mains run in the NZD $25–35 range, with share plates and seafood specialties also on offer, and drinks from about $10–20 for cocktails and $8–$10 for beer or wine by the glass). Refunds and exchanges follow each event promoter’s terms, but for regular restaurant bookings, just call ahead to change or cancel your reservation.
Seating and Layout
The venue’s layout fuses indoor dining with multiple outdoor areas to maximize the ocean view. Inside there are two main zones: a bar/lounge area under high ceilings (with high tables and seating for mingling, capacity about 100 standing) and a formal “Main Beach Panorama” dining room (tables for up to ~120 seated guests (stargroup.nz )). Large bifold windows run along the beach-facing side, so almost every seat sees the water. The design intentionally gave “everyone a glimpse of the ocean from anywhere in the space” (www.resene.co.nz ), so even tables well inside still enjoy natural light and partial views. For the best panoramic sunset vantage, aim to book one of the few front-row tables at the glass wall, or an umbrella-shaded table on the ocean-view terrace. Regatta also has an elevated Ocean View Terrace (semi-outdoor seating) for about 30 guests (stargroup.nz ), and the large open-air “Sunshine Bar” by the beach for up to 150 (mix of standing and casual cabana seating) (stargroup.nz ). The Sunshine Bar area has its own raised bar and daybeds – a prime spot to watch people on the sand. To summarize, seating options range from indoor tables near the main bar (for quick drinks) to the formal dining hall (for sit-down meals) to outdoor/rooftop terrace lounges with direct sea views. Acoustic-wise, restaurant dining is relatively quiet (no large PA except during special music nights), and the interior finishes (angled timber slats, painted high ceilings, rope details) give it a warm but lively atmosphere (www.resene.co.nz ) (www.resene.co.nz ). The main areas have sturdy wood floors, while the Sunshine Bar has wicker and rope furniture for an island feel. If you prefer a lively scene, sit near the bar or on the patio; for a calmer meal, the corner tables inside by the windows are quieter.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Regatta Bar & Eatery sits on the Takapuna Beach waterfront, on The Strand at the main Takapuna Beach reserve. (The official address is on The Strand, Takapuna, right by the beach (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ).) People often describe it as adjacent to *Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina*, or “at Takapuna Main Beach.” The beachfront promenade is easily walkable from central Takapuna (about 5–10 minutes from Hurstmere Road shops), or accessible via main roads (it’s off Lake Road / the Esmonde Road ring road). Car parking: Paid parking is available nearby. Directly in front of Regatta is the Wilson Parking “Takapuna Strand” car park (1–7 The Strand). Hourly rates start around NZD $3 per 30min, with day rates up to about $21 (12-hour maximum) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). An “Early Bird” rate applies (for cars arriving by 10am) at about $15 for 12 hours (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Note the gates lock at 7pm each weekday and reopen at 6am, so you cannot exit after closing time (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). (Also note on weekends that car park is closed until Monday morning (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ) – plan accordingly.) Another option is Wilson’s “Car Park by the Sea” at 85 Hurstmere Rd (a 200m walk, entry from The Strand or Hurstmere). It charges roughly $5–6 per half-hour, or about $40–$53 for 12 hours (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). On-street metered parking (council zones) is also available on The Strand and Hurstmere Road (metered 8am–6pm, Monday–Saturday). Public transit: Several city buses serve Takapuna. Key routes include the NBC/Northern Busway lines and suburban services that stop on Hurstmere Road or The Strand. For example, AT buses 82, 94, 801, 814 and 83 all pass close by (moovitapp.com ). The nearest main bus stop (Hurstmere northbound) is about a 3-minute walk. If coming by ferry, the Bayswater ferry terminal is the closest (just across the harbour). Fullers ferries run frequently between downtown Auckland and Bayswater (a 12-minute crossing) (www.bayswater.co.nz ), and from there one can take a short bus (or Uber) up to Takapuna Beach. Accessibility: The venue is at ground level with level entry from the street and sand (aside from a short ramp into the raised Sunshine Bar cabanas). The adjacent Takapuna Beach Reserve provides accessible car parks and a Changing Places toilet facility (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). Regatta itself has wide entrances and ample space between tables, making it wheelchair-friendly indoors and on the terrace. (However, in very strong winds the outdoor sections may have brief closures for safety.) Rideshare / drop-off: Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop off right outside on The Strand opposite the beach. On busy nights, traffic can slow on Lake Road, so allow extra travel time. Walking from the Takapuna town centre or parking garages is straightforward via the flat Strand promenade.
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside Regatta, you’ll find a casual beachside dining atmosphere with a polished finish. Upon entry, staff typically seat you or check your reservation; during peak times the restaurant uses a walk-in waitlist. There is no formal security screening – it feels like a relaxed restaurant rather than a nightclub. Reviews note a friendly, attentive service (with one guest praising “world-class customer service” and a hospitable waitress (www.tripadvisor.ie )). Soft background music plays (often contemporary jazz or acoustic pop by day, shifting to upbeat lounge or house tunes by night). The interior is air-conditioned, while the open terraces allow sea breezes in warmer months. Décor highlights include marine-inspired art, driftwood accents, and large Aquarian-themed light fixtures (crayfish-pot pendants over tables (www.resene.co.nz )).
There is a full bar counter serving a wide selection of drinks. The beer list focuses on local and craft brews, while the wine list is described as “bloody good wine” – expect New Zealand whites (Marlborough sauvignon, Hawke’s Bay chardonnay) and reds (Central Otago pinot, Hawke’s Bay blends) (stargroup.nz ). The cocktail menu features classic and tropical-inspired drinks (bloody marys, sangrias and tiki-like cocktails in aged tiki mugs, plus non-alcoholic mocktails). Happy hour or summer drink specials may be offered (see venue announcements). You cannot bring your own alcohol (NZ’s licensing laws prohibit BYO wine/beer).
Food is served all day — lunch service runs from around midday (11:30am on weekends (stargroup.nz )), and dinner evenings until late. The menu emphasizes seafood and New Zealand cuisine. Common entrees include paua, scallop ceviche, fish tacos, calamari or prawn on toast. Mains include items like fish of the day, snapper tortilla, NZ ribeye steak, lamb shank or pork belly, as well as gourmet burgers and salads. Portions are fresh and generally high-quality (guests often praise the freshness: “the food is always fresh, hot and scrumptious” (www.tripadvisor.ie )). There are gluten-free and vegetarian options (e.g. salads, vegetable sides, plant-based burgers), and children’s menu items (fish & chips, chicken schnitzel, etc.). Prices are in the mid-to-upmarket range (mains typically NZD $25–35).
Inside amenities include separate male, female and accessible restrooms. Coats can be hung in a small cubby near the entry (there’s no full cloakroom, so large luggage or prams may need to be stored on the side). Free Wi-Fi is often available (check with staff). There is usually no charge for bringing in a cake for special occasions if arranged in advance. A small display rack sells branded merchandise (e.g. drinkware) at times. The restaurant also sells Star Group gift cards redeemable at Regatta and any sister pubs/bars around Auckland (stargroup.nz ).
Overall the vibe is upscale-casual: diners often wear jeans or summer dresses by day and a smart casual look at night. It’s OK to be in shorts or sandals given the beach location, but many patrons change into evening attire for dinner. Photography is welcome (the view and interiors are quite photogenic), and many guests snap photos of the sunset or plates of food. (Out of courtesy, big tripods are discouraged when the restaurant is busy.) The atmosphere really comes alive around sunset on summer days – friendly chatter, clinking glasses, and a glow over the water. By late evening it can feel more like a lively bar, whereas midday is more of a relaxed café-style scene.
Nearby Amenities
Regatta sits at the eastern end of The Strand, Takapuna’s main beachfront promenade, so it’s surrounded by conveniences. Right next door is Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina (Mexican bar and grill), which shares the same outdoor courtyard space during big events (stargroup.nz ). A short walk along The Strand leads to cafés, ice cream shops, and the Takapuna Beach seawall paths. If you arrive early, popular brunch spots like The Boardroom Café or Takapuna Coffee Roasters are a few minutes away. For live entertainment before or after, nearby Harbourside venues (like Little Birds café/bar or the Domain Valley Tavern) are within walking distance.
For those driving in, Falls car park (off Hurstmere Road) provides another large multi-level option, and all major NZ rental car companies have branches in central Takapuna (about a 5-min drive). Several bicycle racks are installed near The Strand, so you can cycle then lock up when you arrive.
Around the corner on Hurstmere Road is Shore City Mall (shops, eateries, a cinema) and major supermarkets (Countdown, New World) if you need to pick something up pre- or post-dinner. Immediately behind Regatta on The Strand are public bathrooms, seating benches and playgrounds (Takapuna Beach Reserve), which can be convenient for families. In terms of accommodation, Takapuna has several hotel/motel options nearby: the Rendezvous Grand (Hilton brand) is about 1km away on Hurstmere, and smaller motels like The Strand Motor Lodge are right on the seafront.
For evening plans after Regatta, Takapuna has some vibrant nightlife – clubs and late bars are a short cab ride away, though note many driveways out of the car parks lock at 7pm (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Taxis and ride-share drivers know Takapuna Beach well; there is often a queue for cabs at the top of The Strand after sunset. Alternatively, on weekday evenings you can catch frequent services on the Northern Express bus (NX1 or NX2) from Takapuna’s Bayview Road interchange back to the city, or hop on a late Bayswater ferry (arrange transport to the wharf). In short, Regatta’s neighborhood offers plenty to do before and after – from beach walks and picnics to dinner-and-drinks circuits – all within easy walking distance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Regatta Bar & Eatery apart. Chiefly, it’s the *location* – literally beachfront on one of Auckland’s best urban beaches. The design capitalizes on that scenery: retractable floor-to-ceiling doors open to the sand, and an upstairs “pergola” deck acts as a viewing platform over the Gulf (www.resene.co.nz ). Diners often cite the stunning marina and Rangitoto Island views as the highlight. Architecturally, it’s become known for its bold coastal theme (as the Resene awards write-up notes, “maritime and oceanic language” motifs were confidently used throughout (www.resene.co.nz )) – from the Modelo-bottle-green 3D bar tiles that mimic fish scales (www.resene.co.nz ) to the deep navy/white color scheme and timber slats that give a yacht-like feel to the ceilings. This striking interior also won Regatta praise in design circles, making it an “iconic venue” on the North Shore (www.resene.co.nz ) (www.resene.co.nz ).
Culturally, Regatta has become something of a community hub. Its very name evokes sailing regattas and Auckland’s marine heritage (the nearby Harbourside often hosts races and the famous Anniversary Day Regatta), so it resonates with locals. It’s also part of a family of beloved local pubs under the Star Group banner. Because of this, many Auckland bands and artists enjoy playing here (especially on Scenic Sounds nights), and residents consider it one of the “prime spots” for special celebrations. The venue has seen high-profile clients and birthdays (it hosts plenty of corporate events and launches), but it remains approachable – you’ll find sunburnt families as easily as suit-wearing managers.
In short, both artists and audiences love Regatta for its rare combination of beachfront setting and quality hospitality. You won’t find a venue like it on Auckland’s Inner Gulf for Champagne cocktails. Legendary moments include sold-out summer parties and sunsets that turn pink across the floor-to-ceiling windows. Many patrons return just for the view and atmosphere – one review even calls the early-afternoon menu “the best as always” with unusual praise for simple freshness (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Even outside of events, the panoramic sea vistas and maritime vibe make it memorable. It’s why Regatta stands out not just as “another bar,” but as a destination – where the evening starts on the sand and (almost) never feels far from the tide.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Regatta is mostly wheelchair-friendly, with level access at the entrance and an accessible restroom available at the nearby beach changing facilities (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). If you require a changing table, the Takapuna Beach Reserve (right outside) has a Changing Places facility. Disabled parking spaces are in the V-line lot (Takapuna Beach car park) alongside regular parking (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). Employees can assist with table placement if needed.What to Bring: Apart from ID if you plan to drink, there’s no special gear needed. On a sunny day, bring sunglasses and maybe sunscreen (the sun can be strong by the water). A light jacket is helpful for late-night breezes. If you’re coming by ferry or bus, have your AT HOP card or tickets ready. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the bar; most alcoholic drinks require legal ID if you look under 30.Dress Code: The venue is casual-cool. Beachwear during the day is fine (shorts, sundress, etc.), but many people dress up a bit in the evening (smart casual – nice jeans, polo shirt or sundress). There is no formal requirement; just aim to be neat (avoid swimwear other than cover-ups). On themed event nights (e.g. Scenic electronics events) the dress tends to be more nightlife attire.Bag Policy: There’s no strict bag check; small purses and backpacks are fine. However, outside food and drinks are not allowed (they have a liquor license). So don’t try brining snacks or alcohol from home. Large suitcases or items should be kept at home or checked into luggage storage, as the restaurant has limited space for big gear.Age Restrictions: All-ages are welcome for regular dining and early-evening bar hours. Families with children dine here at breakfast and lunch. Late-night events and occasional parties are age-restricted: for example, block-party nights are 18+ (as noted when tickets go on sale (ra.co )). If you plan a celebration, ask ahead about any minimum age for that event.Photo & Laptop Use: Taking photos is encouraged (it’s very Instagrammable). Free Wi-Fi is usually available (see staff for the password) so you can post directly. Many people bring cameras to capture the ocean view. Using a laptop for casual browsing is fine at a table, although the space is better for socializing – there’s no dedicated workspace or power outlets for long stays. If working remotely, midday off-peak hours might be quiet enough for a short laptop session.Food & Drink Advice: The menu is broad, and portions can be generous – appetizers like shared ceviche plates are great for starting. Entrees (seafood and meats) run around NZD $30 each; some reviews mentioned portions are reasonable for the price (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Hearty eaters may want to order an extra side or dessert. If you’re celebrating, let the kitchen know and they can often accommodate a small cake. The coasters have Star Group logos, and staff will warn you if the shoestring fries or wines are extra-local specialties. Tip: arrive for an early drink or appetizer to enjoy the daylight ocean view before the inevitable dinner rush.Common Mistakes: People often underestimate traffic and parking time. Especially on summer weekends, plan to arrive 15–30 minutes early to find a spot (or come in from nearby car parks). Similarly, seating fills up quickly at peak hours. Don’t assume a walk-in table is guaranteed on Friday/Saturday evening – booking or at least calling ahead is wise. Also, note that the main car park locks at 7pm (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ); if you park there and return after locking time, you’ll have to wait until morning. As a result, many locals leave earlier if they have late dinner plans elsewhere.Insider Tips: Weekday afternoons tend to be quiet – a great time for unobstructed views if you just want a drink by the window. Happy hour specials (if offered) usually run 3–5pm on weekdays – something to look out for via Star Group’s social media. If you’re lucky to stumble on a promotional event (like discounted oysters days or summer cocktail specials), mention Star Social Rewards (the Star Group loyalty app) to earn points back on your bill. Finally, best seats are arguably on the west-facing terrace at sunset, or at high-top tables near the gen: get your spot early. Even if that area is full, rest assured the entire dining room stays visually open to the beach (it was designed that way (www.resene.co.nz )).Weather Tips: Being open-air-facing, Regatta is weather-dependent. In drizzle or high winds, some outdoor sections (like the Sunshine Bar pergola) may close or have plexiglass blinds rolled down. But the retractable glass walls mean the indoor is still bright. If the forecast is rough, try to visit under cover of late afternoon and keep an eye on the sky. Even in light rain, the view of takapuna beach is still lovely from inside. On very hot days, the retractable doors allow breezes in; on chilly days, the inside is heated and cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Regatta Bar & Eatery?
The venue is mid-large size. It has a main indoor bar/lounge area (space for about 100 standing guests) and a dining room that seats ~120 (stargroup.nz ). In addition, an outdoor ocean-view terrace fits ~30 cocktail guests, and an open-air Sunshine Bar (beach patio) holds up to 150 cocktail-style (stargroup.nz ). In grand total, you can plan for roughly 350–400 people across all indoor and outdoor spaces.
How do I book a table or function at Regatta?
For regular dining, reservations are recommended especially on weekends or holidays. You can call the venue or use the Star Group website/app to secure a table. The restaurant also offers function/event packages with corporate catering; in those cases you’d contact their events team (who handle group menus and layout). There is no box office for walk-up tickets; just come by and the host will seat you (if space permits). For dinner shows or block-party events, tickets are sold via official promoters (usually online ticketing), not at the door (advance purchase is required).
Where exactly is Regatta Bar & Eatery located?
Regatta is on Takapuna’s beachfront, at the eastern end of The Strand beside Takapuna Beach Reserve (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). It shares the bayfront promenade with other beach cafes. The easiest landmark: it’s across the road from Takapuna boat ramp and adjacent to Rosie’s Cantina. (If using a map, search for “Regatta Takapuna.”)
What parking options are available near Regatta?
There are a few convenient options: Wilson Parking – The Strand: This is the lot right by Takapuna Beach (1–7 The Strand). It charges about $3 per half-hour (maximum ~$21 for 12 hours) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). An Early Bird rate (arrive before 10am) can be as low as $15 for all-day (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Be aware the gates lock at 7pm each weekday and stay locked overnight (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Wilson Parking – Car Park by the Sea: Nearby at 85 Hurstmere Road (entry off The Strand). Rates there are about $5–6 per half-hour, or ~$40 for 12 hours (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). On-street metered parking: Limited street bays are on The Strand and Hurstmere (paid 8am–6pm, M–Sat via Pay By Plate machines or AT app). And there is free parking in the public park (with time limits) further up Hurstmere Road if you arrive earlier.
How can I get to Regatta Bar & Eatery by public transport?
Several city buses stop near Takapuna Beach. Routes 82 (North Shore to CBD) and local buses 801, 814, 83, 94 all pass through central Takapuna (Hurstmere Road/The Strand) (moovitapp.com ). From the city center, the quickest way is via the Northern Busway to Constellation Drive, then change to a Takapuna shuttle near Sunnybrae. By ferry, take the Bayswater-Devonport-Auckland ferry from downtown (a 12-min trip) (www.bayswater.co.nz ) into Bayswater or Birkenhead and then catch a short bus or taxi to the beach. Rideshares and taxis can drop you off right in front of the venue on The Strand.
Is wheelchair access available at Regatta?
Yes, Regatta is built at ground level with flat entry from the sidewalk. The interior and terraces are spacious with wide walkways between tables. The Takapuna Beach Reserve next door provides accessible public toilets and parking (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). The restaurant itself has an accessible restroom (ask staff for the nearest facility). Service staff are generally happy to assist with seating or special needs.
What kind of food and drinks does Regatta offer?
The menu is New Zealand coastal cuisine. Expect fresh seafood starters (oysters, ceviche, crispy calamari, paua brioche), plus share platters. Main courses include local fish of the day, seafood pasta, short ribs, steaks, pork belly and gourmet burgers. There are also salads and lighter bowls. Vegetarians and gluten-sensitive guests will find salads, vegetable sides and alternative pasta/rice options. Dessert and kids’ menu are available too. On the drinks side, the bar offers local craft beers, a well-curated wine list of NZ bottles, and creative cocktails. One reviewer summed up the beverage selection as “premium beer and] bloody good wine” ([stargroup.nz ). Cocktails often have beachy or spicy twists (think tropical sangrias or house margaritas). Non-alcoholic sodas, juices and mocktails are also sold.
Are reservations required and how early should we arrive?
For dinner on weekends, advance booking is strongly recommended. Walk-ins are accommodated when space allows, but peak times (Friday/Saturday 6–8pm) can be very busy. Arriving early (around 5pm) on event nights or full-moon weekends can secure the best tables. Even on a quiet weekday, arriving a few minutes earlier than your booked time means you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy the view. If you do plan to call for a last-minute table, try to do so at least a day ahead of your visit.
Is there a dress code or age policy?
Regatta is informal. Beach-casual attire (shorts, dresses, polo shirts) is perfectly acceptable, but many guests choose smart-casual for dinner. There is no strict dress code enforced – avoid swimwear but sandals are fine. Children are welcome during dining hours. Only on special events (like the music block party) is there an age restriction. For example, recent Scenic Sounds events at Regatta have been 18+ (tickets noted “R18” on their listings) (ra.co ). Otherwise the restaurant itself has no minimum age – families often eat there in the afternoon.
Are there any rules about photography or pets?
Photography of your meal or the view is fine (the interior and waterfront view are popular photo subjects). Just be considerate of other diners and avoid tripods during busy dinner service. Pets (dogs, etc.) are not allowed inside due to hygiene laws. The adjacent beach park does allow dogs on leash (see council signage) (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ), so your dog can join you outside but must stay off the restaurant patio and follow local leash rules.
Does Regatta hold regular live music or entertainment nights?
Unlike a dedicated live-venue, Regatta does not have a fixed weekly live music schedule. However, it often hosts DJs and musicians for special occasions. The big regular event series is the Scenic Sounds Block Party (electronic music each November) (www.ilovetakapuna.co.nz ) (stargroup.nz ). Occasionally you might find solo performers or acoustic sets on weekends (check local listings or the venue’s “What’s On” page). Outside of those, evenings feature background music curated by the venue’s sound system. In short: if you want live entertainment, look up upcoming events – Fridays/Saturdays in summer are most likely to have it.
Is there outdoor seating available?
Yes. The restaurant’s design includes extensive outdoor/covered areas. The aforementioned Ocean View Terrace seats about 30 in the open air along the glass wall (stargroup.nz ). The larger Sunshine Bar area at beach level is partially open-air with cabanas and high tables (stargroup.nz ). Bifold doors allow you to eat “outside” even on a rainy day (glass panels shield you from wind). All these areas maintain ocean views, but note they can be closed off if the weather turns bad. Indoors, there are windows and patio doors, so even indoor tables next to the wall feel very open to the beach.
What makes Regatta different from other Auckland restaurants?
Its combination of location, design and vibe. Very few Auckland eateries sit right on a safe inner-city beach, and this one fully embraces it. The architecture emphasizes sea themes with custom details (e.g., 3D fish-tile bar, rope-ceiling foil) for a memorable décor (www.resene.co.nz ). Patrons often say the view and ambience sets it apart – you dine as waves lap nearby. Culturally, it’s known as a place for celebrations and festivals (people remember big summer parties and live events here). Its name nods to Auckland’s sailing heritage, and indeed outdoor regattas can often be watched from the windows. In short, Regatta offers a resort-like escape without leaving the city, which is why locals and visitors both rave about it.
