Common Room

The Common Room on Hastings Heretaunga Street is the best little bar in the bay, with friendly hospitality and banter, live music and comedy nights, and an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. 

The space is colourful and eclectic, with band posters and creative artwork covering the walls and a variety of seating options, including inviting leather sofas. There are also different zones for patrons to enjoy; whether you feel like playing an old-school game of pinball at the front entrance, hanging out at the bar and performance area, or heading outside to the garden bar - everyone’s preferences are catered for. 

When owner Gerard opened the Common Room back in 2013, he set out to create a beer and wine bar that would be somewhere his friends would enjoy having a couple of drinks. Well, he certainly achieved this and more, as the bar has evolved over the years to be a gathering place for many locals, and as bar manager, Gary says, “it’s a place where we do what we want to do”.  This includes hosting and showcasing talent from around the region, from singers and bands to open-mic comedy to poetry slams. Chances are, no matter what night you visit the Common Room, there’ll be something interesting going on.

On the drinks side, great wines, craft beers and classic cocktails are the name of the game at the Common Room, with everything on offer on big blackboards behind the bar. They also have pizzas and snacks available that hit the spot if you’re starting to feel a bit peckish.

What more could you want from your neighbourhood local?