Whether you are looking for a pint or two, a glass of wine, a prime steak, or some hot chips, classic Auckland pubs have got you covered. With a raft of options, New Zealand’s pub culture is incredibly alive and wide-ranging – you will never run out of options as there’s something for everybody’s taste and budget.
If you want to experience that good old world-famous Kiwi hospitality, give a couple of these Auckland pubs a visit.
Shakespeare Hotel & Brewery (The Shakespeare)
Address: 61 Albert Street, Auckland CBD Auckland, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Located right in the heart of town, at the corner of Albert and Wyndham Street, Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery is the darling of the city and an iconic brewery that stood the test of time. The pub has been serving locals for more than 120 years and widely considered as an institution in itself.
Established in 1898, this place has some serious history (not to mention the perfect namesake). It prides itself on serving the freshest beers that are brewed on site and that original Kiwi experience. It’s a favourite among those who work nearby, and a must-visit for tourists in the city. They also serve hearty pub food such as a range of pizzas, burgers, and steaks.
With a great location and an iconic architecture, it is pretty hard to miss this pub. Today, the place features a main bar, a restaurant, and a 10-room hotel.
Galbraith’s Alehouse
Address: 2 Mount Eden Road, Eden Terrace Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
When the Galbraith’s Alehouse first opened their doors in 1995, it quickly established itself as one of the country’s best independent brewers, thanks to its wide selection of house-made ales.
This brewery draws tradition from the beer brewing cultures of American and Indian pale ales, taking their guests on a world tour of sorts with their wide variety of ales, including the Belgian style Trappist ale, Czech pilsner, Munich style lager, and Russian Imperial stout.
This pub offers a wide selection of handmade food that showcases the heritage of the city and their chefs. All of their produce is locally sourced, delivered fresh daily, or picked from their on-site gardens.
Northcote Tavern
Address: 37 Queen Street Northcote Point, Auckland 0627, New Zealand
Northcote Tavern has been part of the city’s story since the 1800s. Today, it is still quite a popular place for locals to enjoy drinks and good food whether on their own or hanging out with their friends.
Sporting an old English country pub feel, this place has something for everybody such as:
- Highlander Bar and Eatery – Features Scottish relics such as weapons, family shields, and trophies, as well as a great lineup of tap beers, wines, and spirits.
- Callan Sports Bar – Plenty of wide screen TVs that plays sports from all over the world, along with a wide selection of bottled beers, wines, etc.
- Point Espresso – Serves great coffee, biscuits, cookies, and more.
One of the best things about this spot is the sunny outside area where guests can enjoy their drinks under the warmth of the sun.
The Cav
Address: 68 College Hill, Freemans Bay Auckland, Auckland, 1011, New Zealand
The Cav is one of the Auckland pubs that has stood the test of time. Formerly known as the Cavalier Tavern, The Cav serves scrumptious food and ice-cold drinks with a buzzing and warm atmosphere.
A refurbished Ponsonby classic, this pub has been around since 1866. They serve a wide selection of craft beers and a wide ranging food menu that goes beyond your typical “pub food”. Guests also enjoy the huge deck that features sweeping views of the city.
In the past few years, this place has exuded a gastropub vibe and a sports bar reputation.
The Empire Tavern
Address: 137 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Established in 1875, The Empire Tavern is another iconic Auckland watering hole. Sporting a Victorian architectural design, this pub has been a gem for the city since it first opened its doors.
It is also one of the liveliest classic pubs you can find in the city, as it hosts numerous activities throughout the week. You can join quiz nights, songwriter sessions, sing-alongs, and more.
Your money can go a long way too, thanks to their affordable and delectable food menu.
The Occidental
Address: 6/8 Vulcan Lane, Auckland City, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Strategically located in the heart of the city at the iconic Vulcan Lane, and one of the city’s oldest buildings, the Occidental is the best pub if you are longing for some good old Belgian and craft specialties. They also have a mouthwatering food menu.
If ever you find yourself in this pub, you should sample some of their culinary specialties, such as the steamed mussels. Or better yet, try their taster tray so you can sample all the pub’s best tap selections.
The Albion
Address: 119 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Another old and gold historical icon of the city is The Albion. Built in 1873, it is one of New Zealand’s oldest standing pubs. Featuring old English countryside vibe, The Albion is a no-fuss pub that also features a betting facility. The specialty of the house, however, is the BBQ ribs cooked for 3-hours and drizzled in Jack Daniel’s sauce.
The Clare Inn
Address: 278 Dominion Road, Mount Eden Auckland, Auckland, 1024, New Zealand
As said earlier, pubs in Auckland are wide ranging and this Irish pub is a good example of that. The Clare Inn is known for its dynamic events calendar, award-winning food, and of course, the frothy Guinness pints. If you’re looking for a place where you can chill out with a good pint and great meal, then this should be on your short list.
The Puhoi Pub & Hotel
Address: 5 Saleyards Road, Puhoi 0951, New Zealand
Locals and tourists flock this classically colonial spot that features a pub and hotel. Established in 1879, The Puhoi Pub and Hotel is a quaint historical and architectural icon in the country. With little access to the outside world, locals of Puhoi made this pub their gathering place.
Today, the pub serves classic pub food menu with a Kiwi twist, such as burgers with a slice of beetroot, mussel fritters, and more. Their beer is cold and best enjoyed by the jug.
The Riverhead
Address: 33 York Terrace, Riverhead 0820, New Zealand
Just a quick ferry ride from Auckland (or a short 25-minute drive) will take you to the oldest riverside tavern in the country. This pub first opened its doors to the public some 150 years ago, making it one of the most storied watering hole in the country.
Today, The Riverhead is made up of three venues; the A La Carté Restaurant for a fantastic and relaxed dining setting, The Portage for beer, pool, and live sports viewing, and The Boathouse Function Centre that features a gorgeous lawn and expansive decks for top-notch food and drinks.
Do you love visiting pubs? Which of these Auckland pubs have you had the chance to visit?
If you are after a place to line your stomach before heading out to the pubs, check out my CHEAP EATS IN AUCKLAND GUIDE