Looking for the best bars in Christchurch to unwind and enjoy a night out or a sunny weekend afternoon? Christchurch, New Zealand, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars catering to every taste and preference.
Christchurch, New Zealand, has something for everyone. Are you into cozy cocktail lounges, trendy rooftop bars with stunning views, or lively pubs with local brews? Then there is something on this list for you.
Come along on a journey as I delve into the best bars in Christchurch, showcasing their one-of-a-kind vibes, special concoctions, and the reasons why they're absolute must-see spots.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident looking to discover a new local, my guide to the top bars in Christchurch (not listed in order) is here to help.
Sara xxx
Kong
In the afternoon grab an outside table and soak up the sun. Inside Kong you are transported to the art deco golden years of Hollywood.
Grab a sharing plate or two while you sip on a signature or classic cocktail. A seat at the bar offers front row viewing of the cocktail making theatrics.
Vibe: An elegant art deco bar that exudes a timeless charm, offering the ideal ambiance for embracing your inner Fay Wray.
What to Order: Try one of Kong's 12 signature cocktails. I recommend the lactose clarified Bootleg Buck with a side of truffled popcorn.
Kong, 76 Hereford Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Austin Club
If you can only visit one bar in Christchurch, then make it the Austin Club. A speakeasy style hidden bar where entry is via password only. Once inside there is a long bar at the front which leads to the live music area with table seating down the back.
The house cocktails are "inspired by musicians who shifted the trajectories of music throughout time". Share plates ease hunger pangs, and dancing is encouraged.
Vibe: Full of energy, warmth, and vibrant with live music and dancing. Choose a seat at the bar near the entrance for a more serene experience. I rank the Austin Club as one of the best bars in Christchurch.
What to Order: Try the in house curated trailblazer cocktail, Ambassador Satch, boozy, rich and tangy, inspired by Louis Armstrong. Or one of the legacy cocktails, the boozy, smooth, and buttery Tokyo Story.
Austin Club, 236 High Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Bangalore Polo Club
If you're looking for a charming bar adorned with plush leather banquettes, dark wood, and stunning tiled floors, hello Bangaloe Polo Club.
The peanut strewn floor makes you feel transported to the Long Bar at Raffles Singapore. Besides peanuts there is a selection of small plates to share while enjoying a signature cocktail or two.
Vibe: Transport yourself to the mid 1800s at this captivating bar with a British Indian influence.
What to Order: With a wide selection of signature options, the gin-based Victoria's Vice is both delicious and theatrical, especially with its torched rosemary garnish.
Bangalore Polo Club, 126 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch, New Zealand
Casa Publica
Head to Casa Publica for a slice of South America in Christchurch. There is a collection of over 160 rum varieties to choose from. Why not try a rum flight?
If you are hungry they offer lunch and dinner menus with small and large plates. Grab a leather padded chair at a hightop inside or a seat in the sun and watch the trams glide past.
Vibe: Transport yourself to a time of clandestine rum smuggling. During the day, you can enjoy a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, while in the evenings on weekends, there is live music or DJ's to keep the energy up.
What to Order: This bar is all about rum. Take the wooden block quiz on your table and indulge in a personalized rum flight that perfectly suits your palate. You can also give one of their signature rum-based cocktails a try, such as the Bootlegging (pictured).
Casa Publica, 180 Armagh Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Inati Lounge
The Inati Lounge offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, serving as a delightful extension of the renowned fine dining restaurant, Inati. This bar is truly a hidden gem, known only to a select few.
Vibe: Ideal for unwinding after a long work day or playing tourist. A pre-dinner drink if you're dining at Inati or any other restaurant.
What to Order: Indulge in a timeless, seasonal, or Inati classic cocktail such as the Nobleman or Titanic.
Inati, 48 Hereford Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Mr Brightside
The rooftop bar of Mr Brightside is the place to chill on a sunny afternoon. The views from the top of the iconic Public Trust Building are sensational. Once the sets expect big crowds and loud music.
An extensive drinks menu offers signature cocktails to local brews. The food menu has a little something for everyone.
Vibe: Highly Instagramable rooftop bar with a retractable roof. Grab a seat near the balcony and enjoy the panoramaic 360 views across Christchurch.
What to Order: The drinks menu is quite impressive, with a wide selection of both signature and classic cocktails to choose from. Experience the delightful Yellow Mellow, crafted with homemade limoncello, or indulge in the refreshing Dill With It, a gin-based cocktail with dill cordial.
Mr Brightside, 152 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch, New Zealand
OGB
The heritage Old Government Building is home to the speakeasy style bar O.G.B. Grab a spot inside or at an outdoor dog friendly table overlooking Cathedral Square.
The drinks menu is extensive with a range of house cocktails, ciders, beer, and an impressive whiskey selection. Food is not an afterthought, they have you covered from snacks to large plates.
The Vibe: During the day, you can enjoy a laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, while on the weekends, you can groove to live music starting in the late afternoon.
What to Order: Indulge in a refreshing glass of sangria in the afternoon, accompanied by delectable housemade focaccia and locally sourced warm olives. Then dive into their signature cocktails, such as the Ava Lovelace with its gin base or the Sir Winston with its whisky focus.
O.G.B., 28 Cathedral Square, Christchurch, New Zealand
Pink Lady
Located on the rooftop of the Muse Art Hotel, the Pink Lady rooftop bar provides a truly enchanting experience. With glass panes on all four sides, The Pink Lady provides breathtaking views of the city from every angle.
With its stunning 360-degree views and an impressive selection of cocktails, wines, and beers, this place is a must-visit for any connoisseur. Complementing the European fusion style of share plates is the exquisite craftsmanship of Michelin Star Head Chef Andrew Tranter.
Vibe: The Pink Lady exudes a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of the vibrant 1960s in Baja, California. Exposed to the elements on four sides make sure to dress accordingly.
What to Order: The Pink Lady of course. A gin based cocktail topped with pink fairyfloss, or a chill glass of local rosé. There is also a range of shared plates that shouldn't be missed.
Pink Lady, 159 Manchester Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Gin Gin
Gin Gin is known for its expertise in gin. There is an impressive selection of over 100 gin varieties and expertly crafted gin cocktails. The classy cocktail lounge exudes an air of sophistication, with its richly decorated interior adorned in shades of forest green, royal blue, and pink.
Vibe: Gin Gin is the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after work, dance the night away, indulge in delicious food, or a mix of it all.
What to Order: Before trying one of their expertly crafted cocktails, consider starting with a gin flight for two. Immerse yourself in the world of gin. It's the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge.
Gin Gin, 4 New Regent Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
The Last Word
If you're not a fan of gin, you can head a few doors down New Regent Street to The Last Word. An impressive cocktail lounge that boasts an extensive selection of 320 whiskies.
The Last Word have a fantastic selection of classic cocktails like Negroni, Aperol Spritz, Bloody Mary, or Old Fashioned. Additionally, they offer some unique creations such as their tequila-based Not an Espresso Martini.
Vibe: the lounge exudes a timeless charm with its contemporary yet classic approach.
What to Order: Indulge in a whisky flight and savor their renowned signature drink, The Last Word, crafted with gin, Chartreuse, Maraschino, and lime.
The Last Word, 31 New Regent Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Downstairs
Downstairs exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a bygone era. A wine bar boasting an impressive array of wines, available by the glass, that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Located downstairs from Twenty Seven Steps, it is the restaurant's sister venue.
Their food menu revolves around the ever-changing seasons and pays homage to local ingredients.
The Vibe: Dark, chic, and cosy wine bar where you could comfortably settle in for the evening.
What to Order: An ideal spot to sample a variety of regional wines by the glass, accompanied by a tempting array of small and large share plates.
Downstairs, 16-22 New Regent Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
Paddy McNaughton’s
A list of the best bars in Christchurch wouldn't be complete without an Irish pub. Paddy McNaughton's Old Ale House is the cutest Irish pub in Christchurch.
This cozy little pub has a layer of sawdust on its floors and an authentic range of beverages. It pays homage to Patrick McNaughton, a convict with a fascinating story.
Vibe: Welcoming and cosy with pub quiz on Wednesdays. Live music from Thursday to Saturday, and traditional Irish sessions on Tuesdays.
What to Order: Hot Toddy or Irish Whiskey in winter, and a cool Irish cider or tap Guinness in Summer. Food is traditional Irish pub grub, try the bangers and mash or beer battered fish and chips.
Paddy McNaughton's, 217 Manchester Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
The Church Brew Pub
Originally built in 1875 as Trinity Congregational Church, this gothic renewal structure is now home to The Church Brew Pub. It's stunning inside with the original organ pipes sitting above the bar and stained glass windows.
The acoustics of the structure make it ideal for regular live music sessions. There is a casual food menu to enjoy along with a drink or two. Monday to Friday there is a special $15 lunch offer.
Vibe: Weekends are packed with a party atmosphere. Kids and dogs are welcome making it also a family affair during the day.
What to Order: There is a selection of 12" Napoli style pizzas and generous pub platter to share. Or go your Pat Malone with eggs Benedict from their brunch menu or a burger.
The Church Brew Pub, 124 Worcester Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
The Cellar Door
Here's one for the oenophiles, overlooking South Quad in the historic Christchurch Arts Centre. The Cellar Door is more of a restaurant than a pub, serving up delectable food to go with its excellent wine list.
During the cooler months grab a seat inside in the cosy interior. During summer grab an outdoor table. Either way, make sure to book in advance.
Vibe: This location radiates calm and ease. Savour the slow pleasures of a varied assortment of great wines and cuisine. Alternatively, swing by for a quick glass of wine and bite.
What to Order: Order a wine flight or two to enjoy some of the excellent wines around New Zealand. The food menu is designed for wine and is a selection of snacks and sharing plates.
The Cellar Door, Hereford Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
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