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Sports bars in Wellington
10 hand-picked bars4.3 avg · 20k reviewsUpdated 2026

The 10 Best Sports Bars in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital, is a haven for sports enthusiasts, offering an array of bars perfect for catching the big game. Whether you're cheering on your favorite team or just soaking up the local atmosphere, these sports bars provide the ideal setting with great food, drinks, and company.

In Wellington for a game?

Get tickets and a hotel near the stadium in one checkout — then hit these bars before kick-off.

See Wellington events →

Local tip — Wellington's sports-bar scene is primarily clustered around the city's central waterfront and lively streets. For game-day excitement, arrive early to secure a prime spot.

1. Southern Cross Garden Bar Restaurant

4.2
Irish pub3,859 Google reviews$$

Best for: exceptional service

A warm, Irish-themed bar known for its exceptional food presentation and welcoming service. Perfect for a cozy evening with great company.

Absolutely outstanding from start to finish. The food was exceptional, with every dish beautifully presented and full of flavour. What really set this…— Google review
Irishcozygreat foodfriendly staff
View on Google Maps39 Abel Smith Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

2. Shed 22

4.1
Aussie bar2,732 Google reviews$$

Best for: waterfront views

Located by the waterfront, this Australian-themed bar is ideal for people-watching and enjoying sunny days. Offers a typical bar menu and a welcoming atmosphere.

We are from Auckland and just experienced the famous Wellington Cable Car, then walked down through Botanic Gardens in the heavy rain today, searching…— Google review
Australianwaterfrontpeople-watchingsunny
View on Google Maps4 Taranaki Street, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

3. The Green Man Pub

4.2
Irish pub2,067 Google reviews$$

Best for: live music

An Irish pub with live music that enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming it. Offers quick service and generous portions.

We visited The Green Man as a group of four around 8:30pm on a Friday night looking for a drink and some late-night dinner. We were not disappointed.…— Google review
Irishlive musiclarge portionsquick service
View on Google Maps25 Victoria Street, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

4. The Old Bailey

4.3
Irish pub1,850 Google reviews$$

Best for: lively atmosphere

Known for its lively atmosphere, this Irish pub is perfect for drinks and meals. Reserve a table in advance to enjoy the bustling energy.

We have come to The Old Bailey a few times now, for drinks and for lunch and dinner and we have really enjoyed it. The chairs can be abit uncomfortabl…— Google review
Irishlivelydrinksmeals
View on Google Maps101 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

5. J J Murphy & Co.

4.2
Irish pub1,842 Google reviews$$

Best for: authentic Irish experience

A favorite among Irish pub enthusiasts, offering a fantastic atmosphere, friendly service, and quality food and drinks.

We ended up in here after a wander, did not expect the food to be this good considering this has more of a pub or gaming lounge vibe. Staffs had been…— Google review
Irishfriendly servicegreat atmospherequality food
View on Google Maps119 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

6. Foxglove Bar & Kitchen

4.3
1,842 Google reviews$$

Best for: stylish waterfront dining

This stylish bar on the waterfront features two dining areas and a vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for drinks with friends and enjoying the scenic views.

We saw this location while walking along the waterfront and decided to make it our supper spot. The tables & washrooms were clean, the food was amazin…— Google review
waterfrontstylishgreat atmospherescenic views
View on Google Maps33 Queens Wharf, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

7. Little Beer Quarter

4.6
Irish pub1,688 Google reviews$$

Best for: craft beer selection

A quirky craft beer bar located in a Wellington alley, offering a great beer selection and a unique outdoor seating experience.

Quirky craft beer bar in a Wellington alley. Solid tap list with 2 hand pumps, which is a rare highlight. Friendly staff with options for indoor and o…— Google review
craft beerquirkyoutdoor seatingunique
View on Google Maps6 Edward Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

8. St Johns Bar and Restaurant

4.3
Irish pub1,638 Google reviews$$

Best for: group gatherings

With its charming ambiance and attentive service, this Irish bar is great for groups. Try the delicious halloumi burger while catching a game.

This is the second time we have been here. Absolutely love the ambience and location of this bar/restaurant. We were looked after very well by Leo. Sh…— Google review
Irishgreat ambianceattentive servicegroup-friendly
View on Google Maps5 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

9. Bethel Woods

4.2
Aussie bar1,334 Google reviews$$

Best for: casual dining

An Australian-themed bar with friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy their tasty burgers and chips while watching sports.

I wasn't sure what the etiquette was here, but considering it was a bar we went up to the counter to order rather than waiting for someone to come to…— Google review
Australianfriendly staffcasualtasty burgers
View on Google Maps73 The Terrace, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

10. The Arborist Rooftop Bar

4.4
Irish pub1,149 Google reviews$$

Best for: rooftop dining

Offers a vibrant rooftop dining experience with great views and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for both comfort dining and party vibes.

We did a company event here for painting activity. There is a big private space down the end for us. And we loved the atmosphere here. Service was gre…— Google review
rooftopgreat viewsvibrantlively
View on Google Maps166 Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Watch your home team: Irish, Aussie & expat bars in Wellington

In Wellington for the weekend and want to catch your own league with fellow fans? These are the expat bars where the away crowd gathers.

Tickets for upcoming events in Wellington

Live prices from our inventory — tap an event to see seats.

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Sports bars in Wellington: FAQ

Where's the best area for sports bars in Wellington?+

The central waterfront and lively city streets are home to Wellington's best sports bars.

Where can I watch a popular sport in Wellington?+

Catch a game at The Green Man Pub, known for its lively atmosphere and live music.

Are there Irish or expat pubs to watch my home team in Wellington?+

Yes, bars like J J Murphy & Co. offer an authentic Irish pub experience for expats.

Do Wellington sports bars get busy on game day?+

Yes, they can get quite busy. It's best to book a table in advance, especially at popular spots like The Old Bailey.

Ratings, review counts and photos are sourced from Google. Bar details can change — check opening hours and whether a specific game will be shown before you head out.