We don’t need a reason to visit the pub after-work; long day, hump day, Friday.

You name it; we are there. If you’re looking for a new local haunt, head to any of our favourite pubs in Tāmaki Makaurau for great vibes, pints, and happy hours.

The Paddington
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Parnell is home to many exquisite spots and The Paddington is one of them; the sports bar exceeds every expectation. Whether you are catching a game after work; or want to treat yourself after a big day, The Paddington has something for everyone.

The food menu features global cuisine and bar bites, like the classic fish and chips, curries, burgers and bangers and mash. We can’t resist a juicy burger, especially when it comes with beef and bacon; add in a layer of lettuce, cheese, pickles, fresh onion rings and mustard; and we are in love. Pair your dinner with a pitcher of beer and settle in for the night.

One of Ponsonby’s most beloved locations is The Cav, which combines the charm of a historic pub with a chic gastro bar. Put your feet up in the courtyard with scenic views of the city or warm your bones in front of the fire inside. The menu consists of pub classics with a creative twist like fried chicken with buffalo sauce or the salted pork belly tacos with slaw, tomatillo, yoghurt dressing, pickled red onion and coriander.

Whether you are in the mood for an afternoon snack or plan to stick around for dinner, something tasty awaits you. Improve your work week with a cheeky cocktail; we recommend the Hawaiian turkey with Wild Turkey, bitters, pineapple, Absinthe, line and star anise.

The Birdcage Tavern
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The Birdcage Tavern has been “the local to the locals since 1885.” Having earned its stripes many years ago, you are guaranteed a memorable visit when stopping by The Birdcage. Regarded as one of Auckland’s top gastropubs, this spot excels in every way, stellar hospitality, divine dishes and a building brimming with history.

Visiting after work is a rite of passage that many other Kiwis have participated in. From the stellar line-up of creative cocktails, international selection of wines and beers on top; there is a drop for every visitor. The cuisine sticks to The Birdcage’s roots with pub classics like steak, fish and chips, lamb pie and burgers.

Malt Public House
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Tucked away in the depths of Grey Lynn is Malt Public House, aka, our home away from home. The gastropub is a beloved local watering hole with a relaxed ambience and a sun-soaked courtyard nestled out back. On colder days, we enjoy getting cosy in front of the open wood fire with a beer in hand.

Every day of the week has a classic pub special; to keep the crowd happy, from pizza to steak and burgers to happy hours. Our go-to after-work snack is the grazing platter which showcases all our favourite bites. On the platter is marinated beef strips, beer-battered fries, fried chicken, jalapeno poppers, buffalo wings, warm ciabatta and dipping sauce. Wash your snacks down with a strawberry Moscow mule or a pint of something hoppy.

Chapel Bar
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Chapel Bar is the heart and soul of Ponsonby; the long-standing local has 15 years under its belt and many more to come. Renowned for its parties and pizzas; this spot is the perfect after-work oasis, let your hair down and recoup after a big week. Have a light bite or dining al la carte, the food is insane, with small dishes like the jack fruit bites, BBQ pork ribs and chicken on ciabatta.

However, it would be a crime against Chapel Bar if you didn’t treat yourself to one of their infamous hand-stretched pizzas; our favourite is Noah’s Ark with pancetta, spiced chicken, calabrese salami, red onion, BBQ sauce and Chapel tomato sauce.

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