I am going to New Zealand in March 09 with some friends and staying at the Mercure Hotel in Auckland.
What is your opinion of the place and what's there to do for one night there?

I have stayed there and it's a great hotel, plenty to do as it is right in the downtown of Auckland. There are many bars and clubs within walking distance in the viaduct.There is even a night club called Boggiewonderland just around the corner that is quite fun. Plenty of places to eat near by. A good walk up Queen St for shopping or going to the movies. Sky Tower and the casino are all within walking distance.
The hotel has a bar on it's top floor and the drinks aren't to badly priced and the view isn't to bad.