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The results are in for the second annual Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropub Awards, celebrating the very best food-led pubs across the country. From historic institutions perfecting classic pub fare to contemporary venues redefining gastropub dining, this year’s finalists showcase the incredible diversity of New Zealand’s hospitality scene.
Proudly hosted by Hospitality New Zealand and sponsored by Estrella Damm, the awards shine a spotlight on gastropubs that often go unrecognized in traditional culinary competitions.
Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Steve Armitage says the large response to this year’s voting reflects the strength of the sector.
“We saw more than 5000 votes cast, and the competition was as fierce as ever. This list highlights just a fraction of the country’s top gastropubs, with incredible venues from every corner of Aotearoa,” says Steve.
“This year, we have returning favourites like Wellington’s Thistle Inn, alongside fresh faces such as BEERS by Bacon Bros and Local Queenstown, all serving outstanding dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.”
Matt Savidan, Estrella Damm national sales manager Australia & New Zealand, says Estrella Damm is proud to support the awards, which celebrate the creativity and excellence of gastropubs across the motu.
“The Top 50 list represents the best of the best, and we encourage everyone—whether traveling or staying local—to experience the incredible flavours these venues have to offer.”
The Top 50 gastropubs were determined by public vote, with all voters going in the draw to win an Auckland escape for two, complete with return domestic airfares, accommodation, meals out and tickets to Top 50 Gastropub Awards.
Next, a panel of judges will select four regional winners, the Supreme Champion, Best Estrella Damm Paired Meal, and the newly introduced Sustainability Champion, recognising excellence in eco-friendly practices.
The 2025 judging panel brings together experts from across the hospitality, food, and beverage industries. It includes Tracey McKay, a seasoned FMCG marketing professional; Travis Field, owner of Fantail & Turtle and 2024 Supreme Champion; Tim Read, MasterChef winner and founder of Helmet, which supports mental health in hospitality; Lou Baddiley, a tourism expert and food storyteller; and Tash McGill, a leading drinks writer and advocate for New Zealand’s hospitality sector.
The results will be revealed at an awards ceremony held at Fantail & Turtle on March 26, 2025. Tickets are available to purchase at www.top50gastropubs.co.nz
In no particular order, the top 50 list is as follows:
The Powderkeg
The Puketapu
Butlers Reef
Thistle Inn
Sprig & Fern Tawa
The White Swan Country Hotel
Duke of Wellington
The Good Home (New Plymouth)
Brunel Peaks Cafe & Bar
Little River Inn
The Fat Duck Gastropub
The Point Cafe & Bar
Waikiwi Tavern & Foundry Resturant
The Paddle & Pint
Pog Mahones Irish Pub
Local Queenstown
Franklins Bar & Eatery
The Backyard Gastropub
Bay View Hotel
The Keg Room
iTi Drinks and Bites
BBC Tasting Studio by Birkenhead Brewing Co
Twofold
The Brit
The Kestrel
Nauti Penguin
The Lookout Bar and Kitchen
Fergus Bar and Kitchen
Good Union
Harbour View Hotel
Mercer Landing – Kitchen & Bar
Holy Guaca-Moly
Smiths Matakana
Ambrosia Restaurant & Bar
The Tahi Bar + Kitchen
The Roaming Giant
Full Time Sports Bar & Eatery
Tai Tapu Hotel – The Tap
The Brook Bar and Eatery
BEERS by Bacon Bros
Sprig and Fern Tahunanui
Strawberry Tree Kaikoura Limited
Dux Central
CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen Kaiapoi
Bower Tavern
The Craft Embassy
Pomeroy’s
Otoromiro Hotel
Valley Inn Tavern
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