Smiths Matakana is a vibrant gastropub and entertainment venue located in the heart of Matakana Country Park, just minutes from Matakana Village. Recognized as one of the Estrella Damm Top 50 NZ Gastropubs, Smiths brings together city buzz and countryside charm with panoramic views across rolling hills, native forests, Mt. Tamahunga, and an adjacent horse arena.
The kitchen delivers a culinary playground centered on global fusion-inspired sharing plates, handmade pizzas crafted with aroha, burgers, and subs. At the bar, guests can explore an extensive wine list showcasing Matakana Wine Country, a lineup of craft and tap beers, and signature house drinks including margaritas on tap in seven distinct flavors.
Smiths doubles as a bustling social destination with live music and entertainment hosted six days a week, weekly quiz and bingo nights, and live sporting fixtures broadcast on big screens across the conservatory and garden bar.
Perched inside the vibrant Matakana Country Park, Smiths Matakana strikes an effortless balance between rustic countryside charm and high-energy hospitality. Just a 50-minute journey north of Auckland and moments from Matakana Village, the venue has cemented its status as a local cornerstone, recently recognized as one of the Estrella Damm Top 50 NZ Gastropubs.
With expansive windows and an open-air garden bar, diners look out across sweeping pastoral landscapes, the rolling Matakana hills, native bush, Mt. Tamahunga, and an active equestrian arena. The atmosphere matches the scenery: casual, welcoming, and constantly humming with activity.
The culinary philosophy at Smiths revolves around social dining. The kitchen approaches its menu as an adventurous playground, pulling inspiration from international street foods and contemporary pub classics to create dishes designed for table sharing. Freshness and local provenance take center stage.
Handmade pizzas are rolled and baked with aroha, combining classic crust textures with vibrant toppings. Alongside shareable platters, diners regularly turn up for Smith's hearty burgers and subs, paired with golden fries—staples that feature prominently in the venue's popular community offerings.
Behind the bar, Smiths reflects the bounty of the surrounding wine country. The cellar list spotlights regional vineyards, allowing guests to taste the distinct terroir of Matakana Coast alongside classic New Zealand varietals.
Beer drinkers are treated to an extensive lineup of fresh tap beers, regional craft tins, and seltzers. For cocktail enthusiasts, Smiths has made a name for itself with its specialty margaritas poured directly on tap, available in seven rotating fruit-forward variations, alongside signature seasonal libations.
Smiths is designed as an entertainment hub. Live music and performances animate the venue six days a week, filling the conservatory and outdoor grounds with acoustic sets, DJ sessions, and band performances. The weekly calendar also incorporates trivia nights, musical bingo, and sports broadcasts.
Sports enthusiasts take advantage of three large outdoor screens positioned within the garden bar and rock garden, providing prime viewing for major matches. With close ties to neighbouring venues across the park—from boutique craft studios and markets to live events next door at The Stables—Smiths stands as an essential stop on any Matakana itinerary.