Top venues for a corporate event in Auckland

Top venues for a corporate event in Auckland

Environment has a huge impact on creativity, enjoyment and thinking, both business-wise and at home. Choosing an interesting, unique setting when planning a corporate function – be it team building or a conference - is perhaps one of the most important elements to get right for a truly memorable event. It’s the first step of at least three in creating a fantastic corporate event.

Escape to Waiheke Island

Woman ziplining across treetops

Soaring across treetops by wire. Image Credit: Ecozip Adventures

One of the gems of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke’s olive groves, vineyards, and golden beaches feel like a world away – but in reality, this stunner of an island is only a short 40-minute ferry from downtown Auckland. Your guests will love the laid-back atmosphere and emphasis on delicious produce. Waiheke’s boutique wineries are known for their high-quality reds, with Syrah being one of the most awarded varietals on the island.

Weaving activities into your corporate function helps to bring people together and creates unique memories. EcoZip Adventures, located in Onetangi, offers a thrilling Zipline experience where guests can race each other on dual ziplines. The 360-degree views are spectacular, and the ancient forest-guided walk at the end of the experience helps guests learn more about Waiheke’s environmental efforts. EcoZip is certified climate positive, and there are also corporate breakout rooms and catering options on-site. For more of a luxe German beer garden vibe with fun activities to boot, you can’t go past Wild on Waiheke. From archery to clay bird shooting, giant chess, volleyball, and even a tactical maze (!), your guests won’t be bored for a moment. Wild on Waiheke offers beautiful, fresh food that’s inspired by the island’s abundant produce. Choose from their function menu packages or order off the menu.

Head to the Waitakere Ranges

The lush, ancient rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges are only a 30-minute drive from downtown Auckland. Rich in birdlife and dense flora, the ranges offer a dramatic backdrop to any corporate event. The Waitakere Resort & Spa is a fantastic option for corporate conferences, events, and team-building initiatives (and we’re not the only ones who think so!).

From our conference rooms complete with huge, wrap-around windows and enormous views (you would be hard-pressed to find a more dramatic location to spend time with your guests) to our on-site accommodation and restaurant, this is truly a magical corporate destination. The surrounding environment makes for some highly unique activities too – think team adventure races, archery, axe throwing, hiking, or canyoning.

group of people are practicing archery at Waitakere Resort

Get competitive and adventurous as a team, with archery on-site here at Waitakere Resort & Spa.

Enjoy a hands-on sailing adventure

Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf is the city’s playground – it’s not referred to as the City of Sails for nothing! Consider a corporate charter with the New Zealand Sailing Trust for a hands-on sailing experience your team won’t forget in a hurry. There’s nothing like the thrill of learning to harness the power of mother nature on Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand together, wind in your hair. Catering and refreshments can be organised also, making this into an awesome half or full-day option.

‘Escape’ in the heart of the CBD Build team communication, connectedness, and collaboration at Escapade – there’s nothing like overcoming the challenge of getting out of a locked room to create some great banter! Escapade is located in the heart of the CBD, offering bespoke Team Building / Learning and Development packages that can be curated to suit. The lounge bar is a great place for drinks post escape room fun.

Spark curiosity and interest among your guests for your next corporate event with a location they’ll love. From an island getaway to a sailing adventure on the high seas or an idyllic rainforest retreat, Auckland offers some truly unique options for your next corporate event.

If you’re interested in holding that event with us here at Waitakere Resort & Spa, please reach out to Razita Raizada, our Conference/Event Coordinator: events@waitakereresort.co.nz

Duncan Mackenzie