The Whitianga Hotel

Set in Coromandel, Waikato, The Whitianga Hotel is a local icon with a fresh vibe and an open-armed welcome. Ice-cold tap beer and a well-chosen pour of wine set the tone, while the kitchen leans into hearty comfort and generous flavour, the kind of fare that suits any time of day.

Plates arrive with a sense of familiarity and satisfaction: garlic bread ready to tear and share, lemon pepper squid with a crisp bite, and an all day breakfast for those who like their morning staples whenever the mood strikes. Classic pub favourites anchor the mains, from a tender lamb shank on mash spud and peas to a scotch fillet with a choice of mushroom sauce, onion gravy or garlic butter. Burgers stack high, including a double beef and bacon cheeseburger with a lick of BBQ sauce, while the oven turns out crowd-pleasers like the blacksmith carnivore and double pepperoni. To finish, think sticky date pudding or a chocolate brownie, both rich, sweet and unashamedly nostalgic.

The atmosphere is laid-back and lively in equal measure. A massive garden bar catches the afternoon sun, complete with a dedicated kids’ play area, while multiple screens beam live sport and regular live music keeps spirits high. Events cater to all sorts, and value-friendly plates make it easy to gather the whole family.

Drop by for a pint and a plate, settle in under the sun or by the screens, and make a meal of it. The good times are, quite literally, on tap.