Shakespeare Tavern and Brewery New Zealand's first brewpub

Historic hotel and also a brewpub since 1986.

With most of New Zealand's burgeoning craft brewing industry located in rural, agricultural areas, this high rent corner of the centre of the Country's most expensive CBD is an interesting anomaly. Not only that but The Shakespeare was actually first in New Zealand to operate as a brewpub, and it lives a double life as a venue for live music and also offer accommodation as a boutique hotel.

Historically, the Shakespeare has had an enormous life, and you can feel it when you walk in the door. Designed by Edward Mahoney and Sons and constructed in 1898 for the owner, Mrs Mary Foley, it was architecturally a bit more sound and a bit more stylish than it's neighbours, and has stood its ground ever since. Under the coats of paint are pretty pale bricks interspersed with bands of bright red Melbourne bricks. The location's proximity to the historical haymarket used to bring patronage to the downstairs bar and upstairs accommodation, then later as the city built up, the Auckland Media Club became the regulars. And they still are.

After a long spell under the ownership of the Hook family, and association with Dominion Breweries, the Shakespeare suddenly evolved into New Zealand's first brewpub in 1986. The upstairs accommodation is now a 10 room three star hotel. Let's add your photos to this page.