New Zealand - 9 great pubs and bars

By Mark Sukhija

Auckland

The Occidental Belgian Beer Cafe (6-8 Vulcan Lane, Auckland Central) - One of my favorite pubs in Auckland the The Occidental Belgian Beer Cafe does a good range of Belgian beers - all served in appropriate glass ware.

Northern Steamship (122 Quay Street, Auckland) - Handily located close to the Quay, the Northern Steamship boasts an excellent array of Mac's beers, a good selection of meals and, handily for a gadgeted traveller, free wifi. Good place for a light evening meal, pint of beer and checking that all important email.
cornerbar (Hotel de Brett, 2 High Street, Auckland 1010) - One of Auckland's finest institutions for a pre-dinner drinks in the nearby restaurants and bars. Offers well selected set of New Zealand wines and light bites - and ideal introduction to the evening.

Hashigo Zake (25 Taranaki St, Te Aro, Wellington, New Zealand) - An astonishingly excellent array of New Zealand and foreign boutique and "special-interest" beers. Knowledgeable staff are more than happy to advise on the broad selection. Highly recommended for both beer-lovers and the casual-consumer looking for something unusal.
The Backbencher (24 Molesworth Street, Wellington) - Quite an institution in Wellington and directly opposite the Beehive (Houses of Parliament). Does an excellent line of lunches and a standard selection of New Zealand beers. The real attraction, however, are the numerous puppets and cartoons lampooning current politicians and poltical events.
Leuven (135-137 Featherston St, Wellington, New Zealand) - In common with its brethren in Auckland and Christchurch , Leuven does a good line Belgian beers (all in appropriate glassware) and foods - including the popular mussels. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Leuven is a most excellent joint with a convivial atmosphere.

Craic Irish Tavern (24 The Octagon, Dunedin) - I'm not usually one to recommend Irish-themed pubs as they tend to be much-of-a-muchness and, like a well known burger chain, you could be anywhere. The Craic does, indeed, have the usual selection of Irish beers and a selection of local brews but, unlike many other Irish pubs, does actually do decent meals which actually mean it's worth it!
Belgian Beer Cafe Torenhof (88 Armagh Street, Christchurch, New Zealand) - The Belgian Beer Cafe Torenhof is a fine pub in a historical building in central Christchurch. Excellent selection of Belgian beers all served in appropriate glassware. Does a good selection of Belgian-themed meals.
Whataroa Pub - Wouldn't usually get a look in. BUT, Whataroa Pub is a real pub with real people in it. Does a standard range of New Zealand beers. The Stonegrill is excellent and a must have - locally produced meats of very good quality.