Auckland is, unfortunately, known as the largest city in “That Country Where Lord of the Rings Was Filmed.” Yes, Auckland is a small city, quaint by most standards. But it boasts a rather cosmopolitan nightlife. This is especially the case when it comes to the music and performance scene. There are no twangy country songs about sheering sheep here. The local music industry rivals that of Seattle.

Hip-hop is still young in New Zealand, but venues like Club 4:20 offer a glimpse of what’s to come. The talent is quite raw, but it could be exciting for hip-hop aficionados to see the early stages of the scene.

Auckland rivals any city when it comes to jazz and jazz-fusion. Temple Bar is one of the places to find some great performances. Many clubs alternate between more traditional jazz bands and fusion bands or pure R&B acts. Many of the local acts have a sound that has a distinctly kiwi flavor.

Gambling is available in New Zealand. SkyCity casino offers a place to roll the dice and (most likely) be relieved of some of that extra travel budget cash that’s been burning a hole in your pocket. The casinos are open 24 hours a day. Despite the bright lights and noise that you’d find in any casino from Vegas to Macau, Auckland’s gambling dens have a rather laid back atmosphere. Yes, people are intent on what they are doing, but there is a stereotypical nonchalance that seeps into everything in Auckland. It might not be the most exciting city in the Southern Hemisphere, but it surely is one of the most welcoming.