About Doolan Brothers
Doolan Brothers is a pair of popular Irish-style pubs in Auckland, known for hearty food, good beer and a homey atmosphere (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.aucklandnz.com ). Part of the Good Spirits Hospitality group (sister to Dunker Doolan’s in the Viaduct), the Newmarket pub (414 Khyber Pass Rd) occupies a sprawling single-level space of about 870 m² and is licensed for up to 500 patrons (including ~150 on its outdoor beer-garden deck) (auckland.scoop.co.nz ). The Ellerslie pub (3 Robert St) is smaller but equally authentic – described by the owners as a “quintessential Irish bar experience” that feels like “a local’s living room” (www.aucklandnz.com ) (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). Both venues mix traditional Irish pub decor (dark wood, cozy booths and shamrock signage) with modern amenities: big-screen TVs for sports, multiple bars, and lively music stages. Signature menu items include Doolan’s own steak-and-Guinness pies, fish & chips, bangers-and-mash and generous Sunday roast dinners (www.aucklandnz.com ). These pubs draw a mixed crowd: locals grabbing a quiet pint or meal during the week, and a younger party crowd on weekend nights with live bands and DJs (auckland.scoop.co.nz ). Over the years they have become neighborhood landmarks – one reviewer calls the Ellerslie location “our go-go place for a couple of quiet beers and a great feed” (www.tripadvisor.com ). (Both sites are rated highly on NZ review sites and even earned Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice for their authentic vibes.)
Events and Programming
Doolan Brothers pubs run a busy calendar of regular and special events. Weekly entertainment includes free pub quizzes (often comedy-themed, e.g. Tuesday night trivia with an Irish comedian host (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz )), live sports on multiple big screens (rugby internationals, boxing, UFC, etc.) and acoustic/rock bands on weekends. The Newmarket venue in particular is known for high-energy weekend music – live bands and DJs play from mid-evening until late (auckland.scoop.co.nz ). There are recurring promotions like a “Working Lunch” midweek meal special, a Sunday roast menu spread, and themed gatherings (for example, a “Whiskey Club” tasting or annual mid-winter Christmas party). Big match days bring in crowds: financial reports note “robust” bar takings on All Blacks rugby nights and pay-per-view boxing (auckland.scoop.co.nz ). Both pubs will also host touring comedy acts or charity events on occasion. Importantly, admission to standard events is free – you don’t need tickets for pub quiz nights or sports screenings. For ticketed gigs (comedy shows or bands), announcements are made in advance on the pub’s website and social media, and tickets (if any) sell through local box-office outlets. In short, expect music and chatter most Fridays and Saturdays, quiz nights on Tuesdays, lots of live sports on Sundays and holidays, plus a fun Irish party vibe around St. Patrick’s Day and other festivals.
Tickets and Booking
Generally, there is no admission fee at Doolan Brothers – the pub operates on a walk-in basis. Regular events like quiz nights, sports broadcasts and live bands are free to attend (you just buy food and drink) (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). For special events that require paid tickets (occasional stand-up comedy shows or major concert line-ups), details are posted well ahead of time on the venue’s social feeds or flyers. The best way to “get tickets” is to contact the pub directly or check local listings; some events may use a small booking fee via local ticket websites, but typically you can just pay at the door. There’s no traditional box office – like any pub you simply arrive early for popular nights. If you want a guaranteed table (for a group quiz or big game), call the venue several days in advance to book. The pubs also offer gift cards/vouchers (sold onsite) as gifts or pre-paid meal vouchers. In short: plan to just show up, but for big matchdays or holiday events arriving 30–60 minutes early is wise. If an evening requires a cover charge, it will be modest (often just NZ$10–30) and will be advertised ahead of time.
Seating and Layout
Doolan Brothers venues are mostly open-floor pubs with a mix of tables, bar seating and standing areas. There are no reserved sections – seating is first-come. In Newmarket, the layout is divided into several areas: a “Royal Room” (seating ~70) for quieter dining, a “Back Bar” (~120 capacity), the main bar area (~150), a small stage area for live acts (~30 fans), plus a large outdoor courtyard known as the beer-garden (auckland.scoop.co.nz ). Ellerslie is smaller but follows a similar pattern: a ground-floor bar and dining area with maybe one more seating level or mezzanine, plus an outdoor patio/deck. Acoustically it can get loud in the bar on busy nights, especially near the live stage and speakers. Best spots depend on your preference: to clearly see the band or DJ, stand by the stage; to watch sports, sit where you can see one of the six flat screens or the projector (the main bar area has multiple TVs (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz )). The pub also has a cozy fireplace and booths if you want a relaxed corner, and tables near windows or outside if you prefer daylight and fresh air. There is no VIP lounge – it’s all casual pub seating. Avoid crowded bar-tables right by high-traffic zones if you want peace, and note that tables next to restrooms or the service corridor may get passing traffic. Overall, any seat will let you join the party at Doolan Brothers’ live music or enjoy a quiet pint on a weekday afternoon.
Getting There and Parking
Doolan Brothers has two Auckland locations, so transportation depends on which one you visit. The Newmarket pub sits at 414 Khyber Pass Road (corner of Kingdon St) in the city-fringe Newmarket area. The Ellerslie pub is at 3 Robert Street in the Ellerslie Village shopping strip. Both are well-connected: Newmarket is a major bus and train hub, and Ellerslie is on the Southern Motorway and local bus routes. Public transit: For Newmarket, take any train on Auckland’s Southern or Western Line to Newmarket Station (just a 5-minute walk down Broadway), or catch frequent buses on Broadway and Khyber Pass Road. For Ellerslie, ride the Southern Line to Ellerslie Station (1–2 stops south of Newmarket); from there it’s roughly a 5–10-minute walk west along Ellerslie-Panmure Hwy or Roberts St. Numerous buses (including the 298, 321 and SkyBus) also stop near Ellerslie Village, a block from Doolan’s. Both locations are well-served by taxi or rideshare – drop-offs can use the curbside area on Khyber Pass Road (Newmarket) or in front of the pub on Roberts Street (Ellerslie), though traffic can be heavy at night.
Parking: Street parking near Doolan Brothers is somewhat limited. In Newmarket, metered one-hour parking operates on Khyber Pass Road, but a large Westfield Mall parking building (off Broadway, a 2-minute walk away) and several public lots around the station offer all-day paid parking (typically NZ$5–7 per hour). In Ellerslie, on-street parking in the village is free after 6pm on weekdays and free all day on Sunday, but check the signage. There is also a small car park at the back of Ellerslie shops (access via Roberts Street) and free parking around the Ellerslie Racecourse a few blocks south (worth walking from there). Neither pub has a large private lot, so many locals simply bus, train or ride. Wheels or taxis are fine, but expect to walk a couple of minutes from whichever lot you choose. Both venues have disabled parking bays nearby (the council car park on Ellerslie Main Hwy, or on Kingdon St east of Khyber Pass) and ramps at the front door, making them wheelchair accessible (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
Inside Doolan Brothers you’ll find a relaxed, friendly vibe. The pubs have a single main entry with no elaborate security line (aside from checking ID on busy R18 nights (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz )). The bartenders and staff are known for warm service (“service with a smile” as reviews note). Expect standard ID checks at the bar – this is an 18+ licensed venue until close time, so drivers’ licences or passports are required. Once inside, you’ll see wood-paneled walls, Irish memorabilia (flags, photos, pub signs) and several large TVs showing sports. The drink menu is extensive: dozens of tap beers (local craft and imported), a full wine list, cocktails and a wide range of whiskies. Keep an eye out for daily specials (e.g. a jug deal on good days). Food and drink: Doolan Brothers brews hearty pub fare all day. You can order anything from starters (garlic bread, nachos) to mains (beef & Guinness pie, fish & chips, burgers, steaks and salads), and kids’ meals are available midday. Don’t miss the signature items like Doolan’s Guinness stew pie (www.tripadvisor.com ) or Sunday roast platter. The kitchens generally serve from midday until close, with some lunch deals on weekdays (the “Working Lunch” special) and a fixed-price roast on Sundays. Because cuisine is a highlight, many come first to eat then linger over drinks.
Facilities: The pubs are fully equipped for a night out. There are multiple restrooms (including at least one accessible toilet on the ground floor), a cloak rack for coats, and baby high-chairs available for day-time dining. Free Wi-Fi is offered to guests, and the bar accepts credit cards – but it’s wise to carry some cash too for tips (though tipping isn’t expected in NZ). Other amenities include a small gaming lounge with TAB betting machines and darts or pool on occasion. Coat check isn’t formal, but staff will store jackets behind the bar if needed. Patrons often bring cameras or phones for photos of friends or the event, and casual snapshots are fine; just avoid professional video or flash photography during shows unless the venue says it’s OK.
The overall atmosphere is lively but not rowdy. On a busy night you might hear cheers from a rugby game or applause after a quiz question; on quiet nights it’s just muffled chatter and music. If you prefer the party side, grab a seat or stand near the stage, order a pint, and join in. If you want a quiet catch-up, head upstairs (Ellerslie) or to a back corner, where you can still hear music softly. Heading out for the night? There’s usually a coat rack near the doors – remember to grab your ID and phone at departure. Overall, Doolan Brothers feels like a community living room with a solid kitchen and a few surprises to keep it fun.
Nearby Amenities
Both Doolan Brothers pubs sit in lively neighborhoods with plenty to do before or after your visit. In Newmarket, the pub is a block from the Westfield Newmarket shopping centre and Broadway strip. You’ll find cafes, bakeries and casual eateries a short walk away on Broadway and along Khyber Pass Road (from sushi and Thai to burger pubs). If you arrive early, you might grab a coffee or fries at nearby spots. There are also a few other bars and restaurants within a 5-minute walk along Broadway or Remuera Road for a pre- or post-show drink. For sightseeing, the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Domain Park are a 10-min bus ride north, and the city centre is only 15 minutes by taxi or one train stop away.
Near Ellerslie, the village is smaller but has local pubs, cafes and takeaways right on Roberts and Main Highway. The historic Ellerslie Racecourse (a flat 15-minute walk southeast) holds races and events – a fun pairing with a day at the pub. Ellerslie also has a movie theatre (The Lido) and some boutique shops on the main strip, as well as Harrisons Farm market on weekends. A driver might stop by the nearby Southern Cross Hotel or Novotel (South) for drinks or a meal before heading on. Overnight visitors will find more hotel options by driving north to Greenlane or south into Penrose; the area has a few chain motels and B&Bs. Finally, late-night transport is plentiful around here: train services run until about midnight, city buses often have late routes on weekends, and ride-share apps or taxis are always available for the ride home. Just check the GST (Good Show-Time) to grab a final bus or book a last taxi after a big rugby match or live gig.
What Makes This Venue Special
Doolan Brothers stands out for blending authentic Irish pub tradition with Auckland’s community spirit. Both locations echo Chicago-style Irish bars: dark timbers, brass fixtures and Guinness on tap, plus friendly banter with the bartenders. Notably, the Newmarket pub’s outdoor deck was deliberately styled after Singapore’s famous Raffles Hotel terrace (auckland.scoop.co.nz ) – a unique piece of design you won’t see at your average Kiwi pub. Unlike a sports bar or nightclub, Doolan Brothers hosts a wide range of events under one roof: a rugby match and a quiz can share the bill. It’s also grown famous for certain specialties – the “Doolan pie and pint” deal has become a local legend, and regulars rave about the steak & Guinness pie as “the yardstick” for all pies (www.tripadvisor.com ).
Historically, the brand traces back to Danny Doolan’s famous Viaduct pub, so there’s a bit of legacy in the name (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). These pubs often top Auckland “best Irish” lists and have earned Traveller’s Choice awards, owing to their warm vibe and consistent quality. Locals love that the Ellerslie branch replaced the old Cock & Bull pub but kept a cozy feel; one longtime patron said it fit right into the neighborhood as “our go-to place” (www.tripadvisor.com ). For visitors, the friendly character shines: staff will cheer wild All Blacks rallies with you, then slice fresh roast for your Sunday lunch. Even regulars will tell you some insider tip – like a secret menu item or the fact that the whole place lights up with Christmas lights in July (as a mid-winter party).
In short, artists and audiences both love Doolan Brothers because it feels like home, yet it reliably serves well-made beers and food. It’s not a polished stadium; it’s a well-worn local that just happens to offer big-league entertainment when it’s on. That combination of comfort and buzz – plus genuine Irish hospitality (“craic” – or fun – in the walls) makes Doolan Brothers special in Auckland’s bar scene (www.aucklandnz.com ) (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Both pubs are wheelchair-friendly with ramped entrances and accessible restrooms on the ground floor (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). If you need a table near the restroom or minimal crowd noise, ask staff on arrival. Heights: ceiling is normal pub height (no balconies at Ellerslie), so small-step households are easier to seat downstairs.
Age Restriction: Remember these are 18+ venues. Strictly no one under 18 after hours, and valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) is required at all service bars (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). In practice, families might come for an early school-holiday lunch (they do have a kids’ menu), but by evening it’s all adult beer drinkers. Don’t bring children expecting to hang out late.
What to Bring: Carry your ID and a payment card or cash. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but if you win at trivia you may want those coins to tip (though tipping in NZ is small or optional). Comfortable shoes are wise if you plan to dance or stand all night. You can bring your own merchandise or cameras (phone pics are fine), but drones or professional video gear obviously require permission. We recommend earplugs for very loud rock nights. Note that large backpacks or outside alcohol/food are not permitted: Doolan Brothers has a kitchen, so outside food isn’t needed. Smoking is legal only in outdoor areas (behind the building); if you smoke or vape, step out to the courtyard or sidewalk.
Dress and Etiquette: The dress code is entirely casual – jeans and a T-shirt (sports jersey on game days, even better). No heels are required; some dancers wear sneakers. Locals often call Doolan’s “a pub lounge,” so the goal is comfort. A common mistake is arriving too late – if there’s a big rugby game or band on Friday night, seats fill up by 8 pm. If you want a good table or will be in a group, plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime. One tip: on busy nights, it’s considered polite to share tables. If you find yourself on a long wait, ask the staff – sometimes they squeeze friendly punters together or suggest ordering at the bar to keep space for others.
Extra Advice: Watches events: they broadcast major NZ sporting events (Test rugby, NRL, boxing) and have many rugby supporters in the crowd, so expect patriotic chants on big plays. On St Patrick’s Day, green attire is common and the place throws a lively party. If you come for trivia, teams of 4–6 work best – bring friends or join a table. If attending a band or comedy show, note that some nights are R20 or have sober-up times (midnight close). Coat check is not formal, but there’s usually space behind the bar for jackets. Finally, if you finish late, remember last trains (Newmarket/Ellerslie lines typically stop by midnight or 1 am) – plan a taxi or rideshare if you miss public transport. In any case, give yourself an extra 15 minutes on foot after parking or getting off the bus, and you’ll mix right in with the crowd at Doolan Brothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket or pay a cover charge to enter Doolan Brothers?
No, Doolan Brothers is a walk-in pub. Entry to regular evenings (quiz nights, sports screenings, live bands) is free – you simply buy food and drinks. Only special events (like headliner comedy acts or concerts) may require a paid ticket. Any cover charge for those is usually small and publicized ahead of time. For most visits, just show up when we open (no ticket needed) (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ).
Where can I reserve a table or buy tickets for shows at Doolan Brothers?
There is no central box office. To reserve a table for a quiz or big game, call the pub directly (phone number 09 579 5592 for Ellerslie, 09 529 2485 for Newmarket) or check their website/social media for instructions. Ticketed events (if any) are usually sold via local ticketing sites or at the door. The easiest approach: if a night looks busy (e.g. big match), just arrive early to grab seats, as most nights are first-come, first-served.
How much do food and drinks cost at Doolan Brothers?
Prices are moderate. Expect main meals (fish & chips, steak, pies, etc.) around NZ$20–35, appetizers (wings, nachos) $10–20, and pub classics like steaks and burgers in that range. A pint of beer is roughly NZ$8–10; jug deals and happy hour specials are often available. Kids’ meals and sides are $5–15. All stated in NZ dollars; no surprises. You can check recent menu prices via the pub’s website or online review pages.
What is the address of Doolan Brothers in Auckland?
Doolan Brothers has two locations. The Ellerslie pub is at 3 Robert Street, Ellerslie, Auckland 1051 . The Newmarket pub is at 414 Khyber Pass Road, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 . Both are marked on maps as “Doolan Brothers” and are in Auckland city (Ellerslie Village and near Broadway, Newmarket, respectively). If you enter either address in a GPS or Google Maps, it will guide you to the right pub.
Is there parking at or near Doolan Brothers, and what are the costs?
Neither pub has a large private lot, but there is some parking close by. At Newmarket, metered street parking runs along Khyber Pass Road (but fills up quickly) and several paid lots (e.g. Westfield Mall garage or train station carpark) charge around NZ$4–7/hour. In Ellerslie, on-street parking is free after 6pm weekdays and all day Sunday, with a small Council lot and other side-streets nearby. On Saturday daytimes, Ellerslie may have free 2-hour spots. For zero hassle, many locals train or bus in. If you drive, arriving around pub opening avoids fees. Check local signage for exact rates – they’re typical Auckland carpark prices.
How can I reach Doolan Brothers by public transport?
Both pubs are transit-friendly. For Newmarket, take any train on the Southern or Western line to Newmarket station, then walk 5 minutes west along Broadway and Khyber Pass Road. Many buses (e.g. 30, 70, 75, 85) also stop near Broadway. For Ellerslie, take the Southern Line train to Ellerslie station – from there it’s a ~7-minute walk northwest along Main Highway and Roberts Street. Several buses (like the 298 and 321) stop on Main Highway just past Ellerslie Village. Taxi/ride-shares can drop you curbside (kingdon St/Ellerslie Hwy by Ellerslie or Khyber Pass Rd by Newmarket) – both points are a short walk to each pub. In short: trains and buses run frequently to both suburbs, making either location easy to reach by public transit (scoop.com.au ).
Is Doolan Brothers wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Both Ellerslie and Newmarket locations have step-free entrances and at least one accessible restroom. The Ellerslie pub explicitly lists “wheelchair accessible” on its features (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). Tables are on one level (and elevators are not needed), so a guest in a wheelchair can move around the venue. If you have specific mobility needs (extra space, high-chair, etc.), you can also call ahead – the staff is accustomed to accommodating disabled patrons in a friendly way.
Are seats reserved or first-come at Doolan Brothers?
Seating is generally first-come. There’s no pre-assigned seating; you choose any available table or bar stool on arrival. For big events or game nights, people often arrive early to hold spots, or form teams around a table. The only exception is if you’ve booked in advance for a private function – then a section may be reserved for your group. Otherwise, just grab a seat where you like (close to the band or TV screens, depending on what’s on) and the bar staff will serve you there.
Which seating area has the best view of the stage or screens?
For live music, the front few rows near the stage provide the loudest, most immersive experience. If you prefer to watch but still sit, choose a table or stool within sight of the band area or speakers. For sports, look for seats that face one of the big TVs or the projector screen (these are scattered in the bar and dining areas). A table near the main bar often has a wide view of the biggest screens. If you want a balanced experience (food + game), sit midway between the bar and kitchen. Outdoor tables (Newmarket courtyard or Ellerslie patio) are pleasant on a nice day but may have limited screen visibility, so save those for pure dining or socializing, not watching TV.
Is there an indoor or outdoor area at Doolan Brothers?
Both locations offer mostly indoor pub space plus an outdoor deck or courtyard. Newmarket features a large garden-style beer patio (inspired by Raffles Hotel) (auckland.scoop.co.nz ) where you can sit in the sun (weather permitting). Ellerslie also has an outdoor seating area out front or a small deck out back. All main drinking and dining areas are indoors, so rain won’t stop the fun – indoor seating is plenty. Outdoor tables are nice for fresh air or during calm crowds, but on stormy/skiffy nights stick inside.
What is the dress code at Doolan Brothers?
There is no strict dress code – it’s a casual pub setting. Most patrons come in jeans, shorts, T-shirts or jerseys (especially on big game days). On weekends some may dress up a bit for a night out (smart-casual), but no one expects formal wear. During colder months you’ll see flannels and sweaters, while in summer people wear polos or dresses. You’ll want comfortable shoes if there’s dancing or standing for a band. Just avoid anything too beachy or revealing – treat it like a good Irish family pub atmosphere. The only hard rule is that footwear and shirts are required. Otherwise, feel welcome in whatever casual attire you’re comfortable with.
Can children attend Doolan Brothers?
Due to liquor licensing, Doolan Brothers is primarily 18+ after dark. In practice, families with children may come for an early lunch or Sunday roast, especially since a kids’ menu is offered. However, by later afternoon both pubs enforce R18 and check ID at the doors (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). In short: if you have kids, plan to visit as a lunch outing (and expect them to leave by early evening). For evening entertainment, the atmosphere is adult-only (as required by law in New Zealand). Always have ID for anyone who might be near 18, as they are usually strict later in the day.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into Doolan Brothers?
No outside food or beverages are allowed. Doolan Brothers has its own kitchen and a full bar, and the table charges reflect that. Bringing any alcohol from outside would violate their liquor license. If you’re celebrating (birthday, etc.), consider ordering a cake or platter through the pub instead of bringing one. It’s also a courtesy not to bring in cigars or smokables (NZ law bans indoor smoking entirely anyway). Basically, just bring yourselves; the pubs serve plenty of food and drink so you won’t need to supplement from outside.
Is smoking or vaping allowed at Doolan Brothers?
No smoking or vaping is permitted indoors. New Zealand has a strict no-smoking policy inside all pubs. Each Doolan Brothers has a designated outdoor smoking area (usually a back or side courtyard). If you need to smoke or vape, step outside to light up, then come back inside. The outdoor spots have ashtrays or bins. Remember that even outside you should stay away from building entrances and children. Never smoke in the main bar area or any non-designated zone – it’s simply not allowed.
Does Doolan Brothers have Wi-Fi and charging outlets?
Yes. Both pubs offer free customer Wi-Fi, so you can check email or social media between songs. The network name is usually posted at the bar or available on your phone in range. You’ll also find plenty of USB outlets or wall sockets around many tables, since laptop wifi is expected now. (Helpful if you need to charge a phone or use your laptop while you hang out.) Note that during very full nights, some tables may already have devices charging, so bring a multi-charger or adapter if you want to ensure a spot. In general, staying connected won’t be a problem at Doolan Brothers.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options on the menu?
Yes. The menu at Doolan Brothers includes some vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. For example, you can often order grilled vegetables, gluten-free fries, salads, and some pub favourites with GF substitutes. One review specifically notes the pubs offer a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options (scoop.com.au ). Just ask your server for the current gluten-free or vegetarian choices – the kitchen is used to accommodating dietary preferences. Do note that many main offerings are meat-based (like pies and steaks), so if gluten is a serious issue, mention it when ordering to ensure a safe meal.
Does Doolan Brothers allow dogs or pets?
Yes, both pubs are dog-friendly (especially outside). Many locals bring well-behaved dogs on a leash to enjoy the patio areas. Inside may allow dogs in the bar/dining area as long as they don’t disturb other guests (the TripAdvisor listing even notes it as “dog friendly” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )). If you plan to bring a dog, an outdoor table or the front area of Ellerslie is best. Always be mindful of other patrons and keep your pet under control; staff appreciate responsible pet owners. Service animals, of course, are always welcome inside.
Can I book a private function or group event at Doolan Brothers?
Absolutely. Doolan Brothers welcomes group and private bookings. Both Ellerslie and Newmarket venues can set aside areas or close off rooms for events (like corporate parties or birthday gatherings). The official site lists “group bookings” and “private functions” as facilities (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). To arrange a party, call the pub and ask for the manager to discuss space and any food/beverage minimums. They can help tailor menus for your guests. Big groups may be served set-meals or buffet style in advance. Just give them a few weeks’ notice if you have a lot of guests.
Are gift cards or vouchers available at Doolan Brothers?
Yes. Both pubs offer gift vouchers or e-gift cards for sale. You can buy them on-site (ask the bar staff) or sometimes through the pub’s website (the Ellerslie site has a “Buy a giftcard” link (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz )). These vouchers work like cash at the pub – recipients can cover their meals and drinks with them. They’re great for birthdays or as holiday gifts for beer and food lovers. The vouchers have flexible values, so you can load whatever amount you like and hand it over in a nice envelope (no expiry date on it).
What are Doolan Brothers’ opening hours?
Both pubs open around lunchtime or early afternoon. Typically, weeknights see them open by 11 am or noon. For example, Ellerslie is open from 11 am (earlier on weekends like noon on Saturday) until 12 midnight on Fri-Sat and 8–10 pm on Sundays (goodspiritshospitality.co.nz ). Newmarket’s hours are similar – generally 11:30 am–1:00 am (often closing at midnight Sun-Th, 1–2 am on Fri-Sat). Hours do change slightly on public holidays. Best practice: check the pub’s website or call on holiday eves/night for exact closing time. In any case, arrive before peak – around 5–7 pm will catch dinner, whereas after 10 pm the kitchen is closed and it’s just drinks and music.
Is tipping expected at Doolan Brothers?
Tipping in New Zealand is optional and not required, including at Doolan Brothers. Locals typically pay the exact bill or round up for convenience. If you have a great experience, a small gratuity (5–10%) on card or cash is appreciated but not expected. Many New Zealanders don’t tip at all; good service is considered simply part of the job. That said, bartenders and servers are friendly – if you feel like rounding a bill or adding a couple of dollars to a drink tab, it will certainly be welcomed.
