The 12 Best Bars in Rotorua That You Need to Visit NOW
Craig Mackinlay
| Last Updated: September 2024 Almost everyone has had at least one bad bar experience. Mine was when I entered a bar, and the smell of stale beer hit my friends and me like a tonne of bricks. The sticky floors made it an impromptu game of ‘don’t lose your shoes’.
The ‘live music’ turned out to be one dude and a really out-of-tune guitar warbling through decades-old classics. And the bartender looked like he would rather be at home than make another gin and tonic.
Since that night, I’ve familiarised myself with bars around Rotorua—places where you’d actually want to spend your evenings.
After sampling an ungodly amount of drinks, here are my top Rotorua bars you need to check out.
1. Brew
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Address: 1103 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +6473460976
Price: $$
If you’re a beer enthusiast, head to Brew Craft Beer Pub. With 21 rotating taps showcasing both local and international craft brews, it’s a paradise for anyone who loves a good pint.
This industrial-chic spot has quickly become a go-to for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its friendly vibe and staff who really know their stuff about beer. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs or rich stouts, Brew’s got you covered.
And don’t even get me started on their bar snacks. Their Southern-style chicken strip hits the spot when paired with their ranch and a pint of their Lowrider 2.5% IPA (think smooth malt beer).
Pro Tip: They have happy hour every day from 4 PM to 6 PM.
2. Ani’s Gin Bar & Tapas
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Address: 1161 Amohau Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 5 PM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +6473501206
Price: $$
If you’re a gin enthusiast, you simply can’t miss Ani’s Gin Bar & Tapas. It’s a paradise for those who appreciate a good gin, featuring an impressive selection from both local and international distilleries.
Their 1919 Pineapple Bits gin has a unique blend of sweet pineapple and the robust spirit of gin, creating a tropical yet sophisticated taste.
You can’t skip their Reefton Gin liqueurs either. The blueberry variant is fruity and refreshing, while the HPH (Honey, Pear, Hops) liqueur, one of my personal favourites, is sweet with a hint of bitterness.
But that’s just scratching the surface. Ani’s also serves up some specialised cocktails that you won’t want to miss. Try their Clarity Gin mojito, which balances zesty citrus, sweet mint, and the crisp bite of quality gin perfectly.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on eating here first, book a table in advance if you don’t want to be stuck waiting.
3. Crates N Cues Bar
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Address: 1237 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 8 AM to 3 AM
- Sunday & Monday – 8 AM to 2 AM
Phone: +6473472777
Price: $
Crates N Cues Bar in Rotorua is a top spot for sports fans and social butterflies. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of screens showing live games, it’s an ideal place to catch a match with a cold drink and good friends.
They’ve also got a pool table and dartboards, adding a bit of friendly competition to your night out. Plus, if you’re feeling nostalgic, their arcade games are a great throwback.
The drink menu is extensive, featuring craft beers, cocktails, and spirits, so there’s definitely something for everyone. If you get hungry, their nuggets and chips are crispy, tasty, and just perfect for snacking.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss their karaoke nights. It’s an absolute blast and brings out the fun in everyone!
4. Hennessey’s Irish Bar
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Address: 1202/1210 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to late
Phone: +6473437901
Price: $$
Hennessey’s Irish Bar is absolutely perfect for sports enthusiasts, Guinness fans, and anyone looking for an authentic pub vibe.
This classic Irish pub offers a buzzing atmosphere and super friendly service. The place is packed with a wide range of drinks, from local and international beers to wines. They also have spirits and Irish whiskeys.
Feeling hungry? Their pub grub, like bangers and mash or a hearty Irish stew, pairs perfectly with a pint.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the live music nights, which showcase local talents. Just a heads-up: arrive early on these nights, as the bar tends to get pretty packed!
5. Our Backyard Pub
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Address: 1287 Eruera Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Wednesday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Thursday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 3 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Phone: +6473494937
Price: $
Our Backyard Pub is a great spot for groups of friends, sports enthusiasts, and anyone just wanting a fun night out. The traditional Irish decor will have you feeling like you stepped into a pub in Dublin.
Sports fans can relax and watch the game on the screens they have scattered throughout the place.
I like to come here for their classic Guinness pint special with their burgers. But if you don’t like Guinness beer, they also have other beers on tap available.
Pro Tip: If you’re into quiz nights, call ahead and confirm the schedule before you head over.
6. The RnM Sports Bar & Grill
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Address: 1279 Amohia Street, CBD, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +6473491983
Price: $$
If you’re a sports fanatic, RnM Sports Bar & Grill is your spot. This place has a buzzing vibe, a wide-ranging menu, and an all-out commitment to sports. They’ve got loads of screens where you can catch all the latest games and matches, making it the go-to for cheering on your team.
Their menu has pub classics but with a Kiwi twist—mouth-watering burgers, loaded fries, and plenty of sharing platters. And for drinks? They’ve got you covered with a fantastic selection of local and international beers, wines, and spirits.
Even if sports aren’t your thing, RnM’s got live music and quiz nights to keep you entertained.
Pro Tip: If you want something a bit quieter, head to the outdoor courtyard.
7. Cocktail Library & Dessert Bar
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Address: 1109 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 4 PM to 12 AM
Phone: +6473437680
Price: $$$
If you’re a cocktail lover or have a sweet tooth, go to the Cocktail Library & Dessert Bar. This spot is perfect for couples seeking a romantic evening or groups of friends looking for a stylish and fun night out.
They’ve got an impressive range of spirits, liqueurs, and bitters. One of my top picks is their Fallen Leaves cocktail. It’s made of Makers Mark malt scotch, Poire William Pear and spiced pumpkin syrup, giving it a spicy kick that feels like autumn in a glass.
If cocktails aren’t your thing, don’t worry. They have a few beers on tap, like Heineken and Tiger.
Their desserts are also just as impressive. Their pumpkin cheesecake has a rich, creamy texture with the perfect mix of salted caramel, toasted marshmallows, and pistachio toffee.
Pro Tip: Get there early to grab a table. The bar gets quite busy, especially on weekends.
8. Vault Bar
@eastsiide89 Vault Bar, Rotorua 😊 #following #fyp ♬ original sound – J🦋
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Address: 1122 Hinemoa Street Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
Hours:
- Monday – 12:30 PM to 2 AM
- Tuesday – 10 AM to 2 AM
- Wednesday to Friday – 9 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Phone: +6473491832
Price: $$
If you’re someone who loves a bustling night out, Vault Bar might end up being your go-to spot. It’s got everything you need for a fantastic evening.
Their drinks list is impressive—tons of beers, wines, and cocktails to choose from. The food is classic pub grub—burgers, crispy fish and chips, and a variety of bar snacks.
They often have karaoke nights, which are fun if you don’t have stage fright. For those who like to relax, they’ve got multiple screens showing the latest games and a pool table.
Pro Tip: Give them a ring beforehand to ask about their happy hour deals.
9. The Salty Shekel
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Address: 1224 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours: Wednesday to Friday – 4 PM to 8 PM
Price: $
If you’re a craft beer lover or someone who enjoys a good cocktail, then check out The Salty Shekel. This place is bursting with local and international beers on tap, plus an impressive cocktail list.
The vibe is lively, and the staff are super friendly, making you feel right at home. It’s an awesome place for a relaxed night out or to celebrate something special.
Pro Tip: Get there early so you can grab a seat on the outdoor patio.
10. Pig & Whistle
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Address: 1182 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11:30 AM to 1 AM
Phone: +6473473025
Price: $$
If you’re someone who loves a lively historical atmosphere and tap beers, the Pig & Whistle is worth checking out.
Located in a classic building from the 1940s, the place itself has a lot of character and history. They have a great selection of New Zealand craft beers and ciders on tap, along with some fine New Zealand wines.
Every weekend, starting at 9:30 PM, this place comes alive with live bands playing a mix of rock and pop. And if you’re looking for some mid-week fun, their Thursday quiz nights are a blast.
Pro Tip: They have a happy hour from 3:30 PM to 6 PM during the week.
11. Sobar & Cafe
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Address: 1104 Tutanekai Street Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 2 PM to 2 AM
- Thursday to Sunday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Phone: +64221221001
Price: $$$
Sobar & Cafe is ideal for those who want good drinks, live music, and people who like Western and Asian dishes.
Their street-style food menu is a real treat, packed with favourites like burgers, dumplings, and seafood chowder. It’s perfect for groups with different tastes.
Plus, they have a great selection of local beers and cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and espresso martinis.
Pro Tip: Go from 6 PM to 9 PM on Monday nights for their happy hour.
12. Good Eastern Taphouse
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Address: 279 Te Ngae Road, Lynmore, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Phone: +6473454476
Price: $$
Good Eastern Taphouse is for craft beer lovers. This place has an industrial-chic feel that’s both lively and inviting.
They’ve got 20 rotating taps with local and international craft beers, cider, and even natural wines.
If you want a classic drink, go with their Good George APA (American Pale Ale). It’s got a balanced bitterness and a citrusy aroma. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for something refreshing and easy to drink.
I personally like their Good George IPA. It’s a more intense version of their APA, so it has a stronger hops flavour.
Pro Tip: They have happy hour every Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM.
