Whether you’re after a historic country hotel, a local craft beer or a waterfront bar, these five classic Kiwi pubs pair warm hospitality and regional flavours with landscapes that set the scene.
According to the writer George Orwell, the perfect public house has at least ten qualities, such as draught stout, open fires, cheap meals, and so on. While no two Kiwi pubs are the same, the best share a common spirit: warm hospitality, local food and drink, and a strong connection to their community. We've selected five classic pubs across Aotearoa New Zealand that showcase the country's rich pub culture.
The Cardrona Hotel(opens in new window) is famously one of the country’s most photographed buildings. Located between Wānaka and Queenstown, this historic pub is known for its quirky and timeworn charm. What most people don’t realise is that the 160-year-old building has a false front, initially installed to conceal the small corrugated-iron building behind it.
Inside, you’ll find a warm pub atmosphere, top quality drinks and finest regional produce. Enjoy classic Kiwi favourites with a modern twist, from hearty meals to creative bar snacks like deep-fried dill pickles and garlic cream pizza dough.
While visiting the Cardrona Hotel, take time to explore the surrounding area. Drive the scenic the Crown Range, visit nearby Cardrona Alpine Resort in winter, or continue to Wānaka to enjoy the lakefront, walking tracks, and mountain views.
The Free House's(opens in new window) mission is to be a great place for people to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Beer lovers will find a strong selection of New Zealand-made brews, including beers created at the venue’s own onsite brewery. The menu also features locally made cider and wines from the surrounding region.
Located in Nelson, The Free House is a great stop for those wanting to experience the area’s friendly atmosphere and local flavours. While visiting, enjoy Nelson’s sunny beaches, explore the nearby art and craft scene, or take a trip into Abel Tasman National Park for coastal walks and beautiful scenery.
Permanently moored at a jetty on Lake Whakatipu in Queenstown, Perky’s Floating Bar(opens in new window) is the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet drink while taking in one of New Zealand’s best views. Like many Kiwi pubs, Perky’s Bar takes pride in promoting local products. Look for the mountain symbol on the drinks menu for local drops – currently, a sizable portion of the menu.
You haven’t truly visited Arrowtown, unless you’ve been to the Fork & Tap(opens in new window). Both vibrant social scene and delicious pitstop in one, this heritage pub is universally loved. With a focus on ethically sourced, seasonal fare, the Fork & Tap excels at pub classics, catering to both gastropub aficionados and local sensibilities. If the lemon-pepper seasoned fries or the Tap Burger were ever removed from the menu, there would be a public outcry. Since opening its doors, the pub has proudly supported New Zealand wineries and microbreweries. Look for Arrowtown Brewing Co(opens in new window) and Ground Up Brewing(opens in new window), along with wines from Rippon Vineyard and Brennan Wines(opens in new window) – some of New Zealand’s top wineries located a stone’s throw from Arrowtown.
