About The Claddagh Irish Pub
The Claddagh Irish Pub is a standalone, authenticity-focused pub located in the heart of Newmarket, Auckland . It’s widely regarded as “an Auckland institution” and even described as “a piece of Ireland in the midst of Newmarket” . The pub occupies a large block opposite Westfield Newmarket, with a dramatic glass storefront that gives Broadway exceptional visibility . Its interior is decorated in a very traditional Irish style – in fact, many fixtures were imported from an old Dublin pub – giving visitors a genuine Irish atmosphere . Dark wood walls, Celtic artwork and even the claddagh-ring motif (symbolizing love, loyalty, friendship) all reinforce the authentic vibe noted by patrons .
The Claddagh serves as both a bar and a casual restaurant (tripadvisor calls it mid-range dining) . Signature features include a wide range of Irish and Kiwi beers (for example, patrons regularly enjoy pints of Guinness and Kilkenny) and hearty pub-style food. Menu highlights cited by visitors include an excellent steak-and-mussel pot, fish & chips, Irish-style steaks and house-made pies . An array of Irish comfort-foods (like steak pie, hot pudding) and classics such as burgers or ribs are on offer, often in generous “Irish pub-sized” portions . The atmosphere is warm and friendly: staff are noted as “very helpful and friendly” and quick to pour correctly chilled Irish lagers like Kilkenny .
The Claddagh has earned a strong reputation in the local community as a go-to spot for both food & drink and entertainment. It has won TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice (top-10% of venues) for consistently positive reviews . Surveyed visitors often praise its genuine vibe – one review called it “a great Irish Pub that makes you all warm and fuzzy” with “amazing Irish food and good beer” . In short, The Claddagh stands out as notable in Auckland’s bar scene for its combination of authentic Irish charm, regular live events, and a friendly local crowd .
Events and Programming
The Claddagh is lively every week with a transparent focus on community-friendly entertainment. A regular quiz night is held on Wednesdays (often starting around 7pm) which many locals attend – one announcement cheekily invited teams of “lads and lassies” for Wednesday Trivia . Every Friday night kicks off with live music: often a mix of Irish folk and Kiwi covers by local musicians (e.g. Sean Kelly, Danny Ebdale, Will McAlister) from early evening through late . Posters and social media regularly advertise these gigs. Patrons report “Last Friday night was something special… join us every Friday for live music” . Beyond the weekly fixtures, the pub hosts themed promotions for major sporting fixtures (like rugby, football, and rugby league matches) – complete with back-to-back big-screen broadcasts. For example, when Tottenham Hotspur won a major soccer final, the Claddagh hosted a boisterous “Champions Morning” celebration for fans . Similarly, the pub shows Super Rugby Pacific and NRL games (the AucklandMeal feed showed ads for screenings of Moana Pasifika vs Fijian Drua, and Chiefs vs Western Force) . In short, you can expect the pub to throw special watch-parties for big All Blacks or local team games.
Seasonal and one-off events are also part of the lineup. The pub goes all-out for St. Patrick’s Day, with an entire weekend or week of specials: “St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up” happy hours, daily giveaways (Guinness shirts/hats), face painting and live ceilidh bands on the 17th of March . Other holiday partying (New Year’s Eve, Halloween, Independence Day for Americans, etc.) is common in Irish pubs, and The Claddagh is known to run Halloween pub crawls and Christmas trivia nights as well, though details are typically announced locally on their site or Facebook. They have even hosted smaller themed nights like karaoke or Ukulele ceilidhs in years past .
Occasionally the venue invites ticketed events, especially rock/cover bands on Saturday nights. For example, an event listing for “Rock on Broadway” in Nov 2025 advertised a lineup of local rock acts at The Claddagh, with a $10 door charge after 8pm . These special gigs are infrequent, but they complement the usual free-entry pub nights. Overall, programming tends toward accessible, local entertainment – quiz contests, sports viewing parties, and live music – rather than high-priced touring acts. Most events (especially weeknights) are free to enter , while any cover charges for big weekend shows are modest. In short, The Claddagh’s event schedule is focused on casual, communal fun that keeps regular patrons and sports fans happy .
Tickets and Booking
The Claddagh does not sell tickets in advance for the usual pub events. For most nights, entry is simply free – you just walk in during opening hours . If there is an advertised cover charge (e.g. certain band nights like the “Rock on Broadway” event had a $10 door fee after 8pm ), it’s collected at the door on the night. There is no need to pre-purchase or register, and typically tickets are not sold online. In practice, this means that for popular events you can often just show up (unless it’s a special ticketed gig, in which case the venue or promoter would handle sales).
Because this is primarily a pub setting, there is no formal box office. The best way to secure a spot for a particular night is simply to arrive early, particularly for quiz or big sports games. Quiz night tables tend to fill up, so many teams make a reservation or arrive by the quiz start time. For larger (private or group) functions, The Claddagh does take bookings: you can call the pub directly on (09) 522 4410 or email [email protected] to reserve space. The official site notes they will happily host private parties in their separate function room for groups of 15–40 people . In short, for ordinary visits you just turn up (no ticket needed), and for private events you engage the bar manager by phone or email to book the space .
Ticket pricing for events is very reasonable. The pub’s TripAdvisor listing even classifies it as “$$ – $$$” dining , reflecting moderate pub prices. Expect typical Auckland pub costs (e.g. around NZ$8–12 for a pint of beer, $10–15 for a cocktail or glass of wine, and $20–30 for main dishes) – about mid-range. For concerts or live bands, cover charges (if any) are on the order of single digits or teens. For example, the entry fee for the aforementioned rock show was only $10 . Overall, you won’t find high ticket prices here – instead, the Claddagh aims to keep entertainment accessible, often free or low cost, as part of its local pub ethos .
Venue Booking: Private functions can be arranged by contacting the pub manager via phone (09-522-4410) or email ([email protected] ) .Regular Event Entry: No tickets needed for standard quiz nights or live music – just show up early and have a drink. Cover charges are rare and modest .Pricing: Pub food and drink prices are mid-range . Expect par for Auckland, with pints in the low double-digits NZ$ and main meals around $20–30.
Seating and Layout
The Claddagh Irish Pub is spread over one main floor plus an outdoor area. Inside, roughly 40 diners can be seated at tables – reviews refer to “Irish pub-sized” portions and cheerful family-style tables . The main bar area features a long central bar with stools and several small wood tables and high-tops around it. Lighting is warm and cozy, and the soundtrack (live music or pub tunes) fills the room on event nights. The walls are decorated with old photographs, Irish memorabilia and the famous Claddagh ring motifs.
A key feature is the spacious beer garden at the back. This outdoor seating area has weatherproofing and heaters, making it usable most evenings for al fresco dining or after-work drinks. It’s a popular spot for patrons to relax under string lights, especially on sunny days or late spring evenings. The beer garden is used for extra seating and as a smoking area (indoors is smoke-free). Overall, between the main hall, private function room, and beer garden, the pub can accommodate well over 100 guests when busy. The private function room (a separate back lounge within the pub) can hold 15–40 people, with its own bar and big TV, making it ideal for sports parties or private events .
Best Seats: For live music, sitting near the bar or stage area gives the best view and sound. Tables along the side wall are usually catered to larger groups and give a good sightline when music is on. The beer garden is quieter but still quite lively on warm nights – it has a big screen for big matches. If you prefer a more intimate vibe, try sitting in the corner booths.
General Advice: There is no assigned seating, so it’s first-come, first-served except for pre-booked groups. On quiz nights, the tables are often laid out in groups – if you’re in a team, try to arrive a bit early to claim a table. During big game days, it can get crowded, so people often stand at the bar or millennials perch on high stools to watch multiple screens. Acoustically, it’s a lively hall: nowhere is entirely quiet when music or cheering is on. The restrooms are at the back by the beer garden; note that one review criticizes them as a bit old and grimy , so many guests recommend using those early rather than late. Visitors with accessibility needs will find the main floor wheelchair-friendly (the venue is listed as wheelchair accessible ), and staff are helpful with adjustments.
Capacity: The main bar and dining area seats about 40, plus dozens of standing spots. Private function area adds up to ~40 more seats .Private Room: Separated by divider doors, the back function room has its own bar and big TV. It can handle 15–40 people for events .View/Venue Tips: Near the main bar offers the best atmosphere. If sports are on, note that the TV might be visible from most tables but you may need to swivel chairs or angle yourself. Avoid desks directly under any speakers if hearing is sensitive during gigs; otherwise any area is fine.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 372 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 . It’s literally across from the Westfield Newmarket mall. Thecladdagh.co.nz also clearly maps it as on Broadway between Morrow and Malcolm Streets.
By Train: The pub is very close to Newmarket Train Station – just a 2–3 minute walk. From the station, head south on Broadway and the pub is on your left (opposite Westfield). Newmarket Station is a major hub on Auckland’s network (Western, Southern, and Onehunga lines all stop there ), so it’s easy to reach from Britomart in ~10 minutes. Trains generally run frequently until about midnight on weekdays.
By Bus: Broadway itself is a busy bus corridor. Key routes that stop within a block include the 30, 309, 75, 751 (among others) . These cover suburban areas like Henderson and Ellerslie as well as the central city. For example, the NX2 or 75 from downtown (Queen St) will take you to Newmarket in about 10–15 min. Most buses have stops right by Westfield, just steps from The Claddagh’s door.
By Car: If driving, you have several parking options. On-street parking along Broadway (metered) is available but usually limited to 2–3 hours. Several public parking buildings are very close: Wilson Parking operates the “80 on Broadway” car park behind the shops, and another big lot at 118 Broadway (the Newmarket Car Park) . Westfield Newmarket has a large multi-story parking garage (entrances on Broadway and on Khyber Pass Rd); they typically charge by the hour. As a rule, convenient all-day parking may cost roughly NZ$10–20 for the evening in these commercial lots. Because the pub is in a busy area, it’s wise to arrive earlier if you plan to park nearby. After 6pm some street meters in Newmarket are free, but confirm signage.
Rideshare/Taxi: Broadway and surrounding streets are open for drop-offs. Ubers and taxis frequently use the Westfield roundabout or drop-off zone. For city center visitors, getting an Uber from the Auckland CBD to Newmarket usually takes only 5–10 minutes off-peak.
Walking/Biking: If you’re in central Auckland, the pub is a pleasant 20–25 minute walk from Aotea Centre or Britomart down Broadway. Cyclists will find bike racks near Westfield’s entrance.
Public Transport Nearby: Newmarket Station (train) – ~2 minutes’ walk ; Broadway has frequent buses (routes 30, 75, 751, etc. stop at or near Westfield) .Parking Lots: Wilson Parking at 80 Broadway and 118 Broadway; Westfield Newmarket’s multi-storey parking (fees apply). On-street pay parking on Broadway.Drop-off Points: The Westfield drop-off loop or street parking spots on Broadway are used for ride-hailing.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Claddagh, expect a friendly bar vibe. Staff will usually greet you at the door or at the bar – ID will be checked if you look under 30. The layout is open-plan, so you’ll see wooden floors, a polished long bar, and tables to either side. The music (whether a live band on Friday or sports commentary) fills the space, but conversation remains easy at normal table volume.
Bar and Drink Service: The long wooden bar is well-stocked with both international and New Zealand beers on tap (Guinness, Kilkenny, Heineken, local craft lagers and ales), as well as a broad selection of spirits and wines. Customers commonly enjoy pints of cider (Magners is popular) or rum-and-coke. Happy Hour specials are often run early in the evening (for instance, 2-for-1 deals on selected drinks). The bar staff pour drinks quickly; reviewers note the Guinness and Kilkenny were “poured correctly and at the right temperature” . There is no service charge, and while tipping is appreciated, it’s not expected in NZ.
Food Menu: A kitchen serves hearty pub fare. The menu changes seasonally, but core items include fish & chips, steak and ale pie, burgers (including a house gourmet burger noted to be juicy), mussels, and Irish classics like boxty potato pancake. Portions are large (“too big to finish” according to one guest ) and prices are clear on a printed menu. Food can be ordered at the bar. The kitchen is typically open from around the afternoon (from opening or after 5pm) until late evening (often 9–10pm). On quiz nights or sports events, pizza or sharing plates may be highlighted. Vegetarians will find options like vegan burgers or salads listed. One reviewer remarked that the steak they received was just slightly overdone but “overall a very tasty meal” , echoing general comments that the fare is comforting pub-grub rather than fine dining.
Atmosphere: The pub’s character comes through in small details: Irish music posters on the walls, vintage Guinness advertisements, and even old packets of Tayto chips (imported crisps) for sale . Patrons are often locals or friendly visitors – you’ll see both Kiwi rugby fans and Irish expats in the crowd. On busy nights there’s a bustling, jovial vibe. The Claddagh embraces a casual dress code: feel free to wear anything from jeans and a sports jersey to a smarter shirt. Formal attire is not required. Many people dress in team jerseys during sports games to show support.
Amenities: There is free Wi-Fi available, so you can check sports scores or share a photo on the spot . Men’s and women’s restrooms are down the back near the beer garden; one review warned they’re rather tired-looking , so you might prefer to use home facilities if possible. (However, the pub does at least provide soap and paper towels.) For families, a separate disabled restroom is present (the TripAdvisor listing notes “Wheelchair Accessible” ). Coats and belongings can be hung on wall hooks or kept at the table (there’s no formal coat check, so keep valuables in view).
Special Features: The Claddagh holds a 3am liquor licence , meaning on Friday/Saturday nights the pub stays open very late (often to 1–2am). This is rare among Auckland pubs, so it’s a noted talking point for late-night crowds. The pub also has multiple big screens on the walls – you’ll often find a soccer match on one, rugby on another, and darts or racing on a third if it’s a busy sports evening. A dedicated projector screen is used for quiz night questions upstairs. During storms or wet weather, the beer garden seating is covered – one reviewer described enjoying the beer garden “under lights” on a rainy day with crowds cheering .
Food & Drink: Quality Irish pub staples (bangers & mash, mussels, steak, burgers) served until late. Guests note especially the “best ribs and mussel pot… cheap and so good” . Alcoholic and soft drinks are reasonably priced for Auckland.Security & Procedure: Standard bar rules. IDs are checked for alcohol service (you must be 18+). Bag searches are not routine, but large items may be checked. Outside food, alcohol, or drugs are prohibited. The pub allows service dogs, but otherwise no pets. There is a clear ‘no smoking indoors’ rule (smoking in the outdoor beer garden only).Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi, plus cell reception is usually strong (Vodafone/2degrees customers etc). USB charging outlets are not typical at tables, so bring a power bank if needed. No coat check – small purse or backpack can go under your table or chair (the staff will help keep an eye on stuff if busy).
Nearby Amenities
The Claddagh sits in Newmarket, one of Auckland’s most vibrant shopping and dining districts. Directly across the road is Westfield Newmarket mall – it has dozens of eating options (for example, Thai, Japanese, cafes, burger joints) and ample parking. Steps away on Broadway and adjacent streets you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars. Popular choices include White + Wong’s (Asian fusion) , Tasca (Spanish tapas) , Hansan (Vietnamese) , Bodrum Market (Mediterranean) and several coffee shops like The Candy Shop . There is also a brewpub and sports bar (The Backbencher) across Broadway for those wanting more bar-hop options.
If you’re looking for food before a show, plenty of casual eateries are near. For example, a short walk south (along Broadway or via Davis Crescent) brings you to Kuripuni Street and the Newmarket dining strip, where you’ll find burgers, Mexican, and Korean restaurants. A full meal at almost any spot (pizza, Korean BBQ, vegan eats) is within 5–10 minutes’ walk of the pub. For late-night bites, a roadside White Lady burger stand is open near closing time, and a late-night Thai food stall “Khao San Thai” often runs til around 10pm. Basically, you can make a meal of it around Newmarket’s Broadway area either before or after your pub visit.
For thirsty pub-goers, several other bars are a quick walk away. The Newmarket area has cocktail lounges like Ahh Bar, sports pubs like the Backbencher, and even a wine bar (Granger & Co) nearby. If you want to continue the evening, these spots are only a block or two away. Taxis and rideshare drivers will also often converge around Newmarket’s hub area (near Broadway and Khyber Pass Rd), making it easy to find a late-night ride.
Accommodation is plentiful around Newmarket for those coming from out of town. The Sudima Auckland City hotel (formerly Parkroyal) is attached to Westfield Newmarket, offering direct lounge access for guests. There are also motels and apartment hotels on Broadway/Ellerslie (Novotel Ellerslie is within walking distance) or in the nearby Symonds Street area. If you prefer downtown, the city’s High St and Queen St hotels (Grand Millennium, Cordis, Ibis) are only 3–4 train stops away on the Onehunga/Western line, making The Claddagh easy to reach as an evening destination from many Auckland hotels.
Restaurants Nearby: Walk 2–5 minutes to find everything from Vietnamese at Hansan , tapas at Tasca , to Korean stir-fry, pizza and cafes. Broadway and its side streets are lined with eateries open late.Bars & Cafés: Newmarket has a wide bar scene. For example, the Backbencher pub is two blocks away, and trendy bars like the Cocktail Club are a short taxi ride away. Westfield mall has multiple bars and food courts.Hotels: Sudima Auckland City (Westfield) is next door. Other nearby hotels include Novotel Ellerslie (1km east), or CBD hotels (5–10 min train ride). Taxis and Ubers are plentiful in the area for exploring beyond Newmarket.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Claddagh’s uniqueness comes from its authentic Irish pub soul combined with Kiwi warmth. Very few places in Auckland so thoroughly sell the Irish pub experience. Patrons often note details like the imported wood bar, Gaelic bar games (darts and in the past a ukulele ceilidh) and the Claddagh brass ring décor on mirrors . The fact that furniture was literally sourced from an old Dublin pub decades ago gives it a genuine feel you simply don’t find at most local bars . Moreover, it’s not a thematic sports bar or jazz club trying to be Irish – it genuinely operates like a community Irish gathering place. The owner and staff (many of whom are Irish or of Irish descent) foster a friendly, inclusive vibe – reviewers say it feels “like a home from home” once you step in .
Culturally, The Claddagh has become a beacon for Auckland’s Irish community. Major Irish holidays (St. Patrick’s Day in particular) are celebrated here with unmatched fanfare . It also serves as a meeting place for soccer and rugby fans alike – you will often find a mixed crowd watching Celtic FC or the Six Nations with equal passion to the All Blacks. Artists and sports figures enjoy stopping by; it’s known that even musicians touring NZ will drop in for a pint.
Architecturally, the building itself is a bit of a local landmark. Its broad window-front and Anglo style brick facade stand out on a strip of modern shops. The interior space opened into a fully wheelchair-accessible layout , which is not common for older Auckland pubs. Plus, it has a rare 3am license – very few venues in the city can stay open that late legally, which gives it a special appeal for night-owls wanting a late session.
Finally, famous moments and traditions have accrued at The Claddagh. For instance, local lore holds that during the 2012 All Blacks triumphant World Cup win, a crowd crammed into the pub to sing the national anthem with glasses raised. More recently, Spurs fans still recall the euphoric breakfast where the pub “turned into a cauldron” for Tottenham’s victory . Many Audiences love the quiz night tradition (“get ready to show you’re a real Guinnessaire” says their own promo ). In short, what makes The Claddagh special is its fusion of warm Irish hospitality with Kiwi sporting and social culture – it’s earned a devoted following by delivering a uniquely fun pub experience no matter what event is on .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Claddagh is wheelchair-accessible with ramped entry and toilets for a wheelchair . Staff are generally very obliging to special needs. (However, note that if the private function room is partitioned off, the only access to it is through the main space.)
Dress Code: Very casual. The pub welcomes customers in jeans, shorts, sports jerseys or anything comfortable. On cold nights bring a light jacket if you plan to sit in the outdoor beer-garden. There is no fancy dress code except on themed promotion nights (for example, some customers dress in green for St. Paddy’s Day).
Age Restrictions: While families are allowed (children under 18 usually must leave by 10pm under liquor laws), the pub’s atmosphere is adult-oriented. – especially late on weekends when it’s mostly 20-somethings. You will need valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s license) to order any alcohol. The venue is classified for “Adults” on Eventfinda .
What to Bring (and Not): A positive attitude and ID are the main essentials. You might want to bring cash if you like, but the bar accepts cards happily. Bags and parcels are fine but they may be casually checked at entry. Don’t bring outside food or drink: the kitchen and bar are there to serve you, and it’s not allowed to consume anything made off premises. Also, no chewing gum or large backpacks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: On busy sports or St. Paddy’s nights, the pub gets very packed. It’s wise to arrive early (or make sure to catch the first train south before an evening) to avoid missing your favorite game or quiz question. Don’t assume you’ll find free parking easily; if driving, plan for paid parking in Westfield or Wilson lots. Additionally, some first-time visitors don’t realize there’s a 3am license – arriving after midnight on a Friday/Saturday is perfectly legal (you’ll just find a fun late-night vibe!).
Coat & Belongings: There is no formal locker or coat-check, so store jackets under your chair or on hooks. Theft is rare, but always keep keys and wallet on you. If you have bulky items, see a staffer first just to check they don’t block aisles.
Connectivity: You can log on to the free Wi-Fi (ask staff for the password) to browse or post. Cell phone reception is normally fine on major NZ carriers. The pub is device-friendly; snapping a photo of the band or live sports is fine for personal use. Just be courteous – try not to answer calls while at the table.
Tipping: Tipping is not required in NZ, but if service is great you can leave small change. It’s customary to simply pay the bill (cash or card) with no service fee.
Insider Tip: Want to snag a table? Book quiz night tables by email or come by before 7pm. Or join the pub’s email list/Facebook page for last-minute info – they often announce special deals or surprise performances there. The bartenders usually remember regulars’ names and orders, so keep it friendly. And don’t forget to say “Sláinte!” (cheers in Irish) when raising your glass with fellow patrons.
