Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant

restaurant — Kaikoura · Kaikoura

About Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant

Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant occupies a former working garage at the heart of Kaikōura, originally serving the community with fuel and mechanical repairs before being thoughtfully transformed into a bar and restaurant in 2013. Today the venue blends industrial character with contemporary style, offering a spacious layout, plenty of seating, and two large open fireplaces for a warm atmosphere year-round.

The space includes live TV, pool and darts, and a calendar of regular events, making it a relaxed yet vibrant spot for both locals and visitors. Behind the bar, fresh cold beer flows on tap alongside a curated range of wines, spirits, low- and no-alcohol options, and a cocktail list of both classic favourites and modern creations.

The food menu features handcrafted pizzas, premium Stonegrill experiences, and a generous selection of burgers and fresh salads. A private room seats up to 50 guests for celebrations, functions and group gatherings, and the venue runs a daily happy hour from 3-4pm alongside events like Chase the Ace and Quiz Night.

Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant: An Old Kaikōura Garage Reborn

At 50 West End in the heart of Kaikōura, Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant occupies a building that once served the community as a working garage, providing fuel and mechanical repairs. In 2013, the iconic space was thoughtfully transformed into the bar and restaurant it is today, keeping its industrial character while adding contemporary style.

A Warm, Vibrant Space

The venue offers a spacious layout with plenty of seating, complemented by two large open fireplaces that keep the atmosphere warm and inviting year-round. Live TV, pool and darts add to the relaxed vibe, and the venue runs a regular calendar of events - including Chase the Ace and Quiz Night - making it a spot enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.

Food and Drink for Every Appetite

The food menu features handcrafted pizzas, premium Stonegrill experiences, and a generous selection of burgers and fresh salads, offering something for every appetite. Behind the bar, fresh cold beer is always flowing on tap, alongside a curated range of premium wines and spirits, low- and no-alcohol options, and a cocktail list covering both classic favourites and modern creations. A daily happy hour runs from 3-4pm.

Functions and Group Gatherings

Groper Garage's private room comfortably seats up to 50 guests, making it well suited to celebrations, functions and group gatherings. Bookings can be arranged directly by email or phone.

Visiting Groper Garage

Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant is open Monday to Thursday from 3pm until late, and Friday to Sunday from 12pm until late, at 50 West End, Kaikōura. Whether it's a quiet pint by the fireplace, a Stonegrill dinner, or booking the private room for a group celebration, Groper Garage positions itself as a relaxed, characterful spot in the heart of Kaikōura.

Signature items

  • Stonegrill Experience
  • Handcrafted Pizzas
  • Daily Happy Hour
  • Private Function Room

Menu

Food

  • Handcrafted Pizzas — A range of handcrafted pizzas
  • Stonegrill Experience — Premium Stonegrill dining experience
  • Burgers — A generous selection of burgers
  • Fresh Salads — A generous selection of fresh salads

Frequently asked questions

Where is Groper Garage located?
At 50 West End, Kaikoura 7300, New Zealand.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Thursday 3pm until late, Friday to Sunday 12pm until late.
Is there a happy hour?
Yes, daily from 3-4pm.
What is the building's history?
It was once a working garage providing fuel and mechanical repairs, transformed into Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant in 2013.
Can I book a function or private event?
Yes, the private room seats up to 50 guests for celebrations, functions and group gatherings.
What food does Groper Garage serve?
Handcrafted pizzas, premium Stonegrill experiences, burgers and fresh salads.
What else is there to do at the venue?
Live TV, pool, darts, and regular events like Chase the Ace and Quiz Night.

Tips

  • {"body":"Runs daily from 3-4pm.","title":"Time your visit for happy hour"}
  • {"body":"A premium dining option alongside the pizza and burger menu.","title":"Try the Stonegrill experience"}
  • {"body":"Seats up to 50 guests for functions and celebrations.","title":"Book the private room for groups"}
  • {"body":"Regular events include Chase the Ace and Quiz Night.","title":"Check the events calendar"}