The old-world beauty of this building is undeniable. The landing at the top of the narrow Victorian staircase on the way to the rooftop is laid with woven Persian rugs, and the walls decorated with 19th century photos of Maori royalty. And if rugby and Tui run through your veins, what better place to catch the game? All the super rugby games are played live, and the fixture displayed behind the bar ensures you won’t miss the next one.
On tap, Kiwi beers get top billing, with Monteith’s American Pale Ale showing more restraint and balance than many of its American kin. There’s a big old pool table, live music on Wednesdays, food specials throughout the week and plenty of vego options, too. For our brothers and sisters from across the ditch, it’s nice to know there’s a place where the burgers are huge, the chups are hot and the footy’s played on a square pitch.