About Mornington Taphouse
Mornington Taphouse is a landmark suburban pub & restaurant located at 36 Mailer Street in Dunedin’s Mornington area (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Perched on a high ridge, its website even calls it a “hidden gem” above the city (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). Originally opened (as Mornington Tavern) in 1974 (www.odt.co.nz ), it has since grown into a multi-area venue. The ground floor includes a family-friendly dining room (the Kitchen & Bar) serving all-day pub fare, complete with highchairs and a small playground for kids (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). An adjacent Sports Bar houses over a dozen big-screen TVs with in-house TAB betting for live sports. Above, a private function hall (extensively refurbished by owner Murdoch Miskimmin after 2010 (www.odt.co.nz )) can accommodate large events – officially up to about 240 people (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). In short, Mornington Taphouse blends classic Kiwi pub atmosphere, family dining, and versatile event space under one roof.
Events and Programming
The Mornington Taphouse is active most nights of the week. Regular weekly events are a major draw. For example, Monday is free-pool day and Tuesday hosts a pub quiz (usually at 7pm) (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). On the first Wednesday of each month they run “Jingo” bingo nights with burger specials (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). Drink promotions abound – customers often enjoy $6.50 pint specials on Thursdays and $13 “jugs” of beer on Sundays (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). On top of this, the venue books live gigs and themed shows. Both local and touring acts play here: past performers include Kiwi rock band Elemeno P and NZ comedians. A media review of the March 2021 Elemeno P show noted about 200 people in the basement venue and praised its “fabulous” sound system and “bloody good PA” (www.muzic.nz ) (www.muzic.nz ). Typical ticket prices depend on the artist (weapons often range from about NZD 10–25 for concerts), while quiz and casual nights are usually free entry.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at Mornington Taphouse are usually sold through local New Zealand event platforms or at the door. There is no separate box office counter – announcements typically appear on social media or gig listings. For popular acts it pays to book early, as smaller venues can sell out. If an event isn’t sold out, you can often simply pay at the door. Drink specials and quiz nights generally carry no cover charge beyond the cost of drinks, whereas live concerts and comedy nights charge an entry fee (as noted above, usually in the range of NZ$10–25).
Seating and Layout
The inside layout is mostly open floor with a mix of bar-top tables and lounge seating. For gigs and events the space operates on a standing-room basis. The performance stage is a small raised platform in the large hall, and audiences stand or sit on stools around the edges. There are no fixed, assigned seats for shows, so arriving early will get you the best vantage. In fact, reviewers have praised the acoustics – one noted the basement venue is “fabulous” and the PA system “bloody good” (www.muzic.nz ). The dining section, by contrast, has tables and chairs for pub-style meals. Overall sightlines are good; almost any spot in the main event space enjoys a clear view of the stage.
Getting There and Parking
Mornington Taphouse is easily reached by car or public transport. It sits at 36 Mailer St, near the corner of View St (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). There is abundant free parking on site and in surrounding streets – local guides note “plenty of off-street parking” for patrons (www.odt.co.nz ). Even on busy Friday/Saturday nights you can usually find a space in the adjacent car parks with a short walk. Public buses also stop practically at the pub. Dunedin ORBUS routes 63 (Logan Park) and 15 or 61 (city–South Dunedin) terminate at the Mornington terminus on Mailer Street (moovitapp.com ), literally in front of the venue. Taxis or rideshare vehicles can pull up at the door. In fact, one venue write-up mentions that airport pick-ups can even be arranged, underscoring the plentiful parking and attention to guest convenience (www.odt.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
Inside you’ll find the friendly buzz of a classic Kiwi pub. The bar is stocked with a wide range of drinks: local craft beers (for example, taps include brews from Emerson’s Brewery (www.odt.co.nz )), domestic lagers, wines and spirits. A full food menu is served all day in the dining area, featuring typical pub fare (burgers, fish & chips, steaks, etc.) and snack plates. Notable features include a giant jukebox (over 700,000 song choices) and multiple high-definition screens – ideal for sports and music videos (www.odt.co.nz ). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout (www.odt.co.nz ), and the venue layout includes regular pub seating as well as bench tables. Bathrooms are clean and convenient on each floor. The pub complies with NZ law, so it is non-smoking indoors with an outside smoking area under cover. There is no formal coat-check, so patrons typically keep coats behind their seats or in their vehicles.
Nearby Amenities
Mornington itself is mainly residential. Aside from the Tavern, the closest shops are a convenience store and a local dairy on Mornington Road. For groceries and supplies, a Woolworths supermarket is just a few blocks away (at 43 Mailer St) (www.kairesilience.food ). You won’t find many other bars or restaurants in the immediate vicinity – most out-of-towners assume fine dining or chain options mean going into Dunedin city, a roughly 10-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride away. Indeed, many visitors arrive in the city centre early to grab dinner before the show. If you need accommodation, note that Mornington has only a couple of motels; most overnight visitors book closer to the CBD or nearby suburbs like Mosgiel for more choices.
What Makes This Venue Special
Mornington Taphouse is beloved for its genuine community vibe and unique blend of amenities. Its design combines rustic pub charm with modern upgrades, like the open-air courtyard lit by festoon lights and a warming gas firepit (www.odt.co.nz ) – a rare find at a suburban pub. The owners emphasize local connections: the venue frequently sponsors community groups (from bowling clubs to rugby teams) (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ) and forges a “home away from home” feel. Locals and artists alike praise it for friendly service, craft beer selection (including local Emerson’s brews (www.odt.co.nz )), and a consistently good sound system. Historic tidbits also add character – for instance, longtime residents remember the downstairs once operated as the nightclub “Abbott’s,” and elements of that era remain in the lighting and dance floor arrangement. With regular special nights (quiz, burger & bingo, trivia) and a packed events schedule, Mornington Taphouse has earned a reputation as a one-stop entertainment spot where both the bar crowd and DJs feel at home.
Visitor Tips and Information
The venue is accessible to all ages but note that NZ liquor law generally requires no patrons under 18 after 10pm. If coming with children, daytime and early-evening suits best (there are kid-friendly menu options and play areas (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) before evening hours). Dress is casual – T-shirt and jeans are perfectly normal. Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink (New Zealand ID rules apply for the bar mid-evening onwards). It's wise to carry some cash and cards for drinks or cover charges; while most places accept EFTPOS, a small cash backup is handy. The pub provides QR or tap payments, but having a few coins for jukebox credit or a quick tip can be useful. Phones have reception here, and the free Wi-Fi (ask staff for password) helps if you need directions. Earplugs can be handy for very loud gigs. Finally, locks on your vehicle or belongings are smart – the neighborhood is generally safe, but busy nights mean small items should be secured. In short: arrive early for prime spots and parking, relax in coat/sweater when the night cools off (especially in winter), and enjoy the famously laid-back Dunedin pub atmosphere.
What is the address of Mornington Taphouse?
Mornington Taphouse is located at 36 Mailer Street in the suburb of Mornington, Dunedin (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). It’s easy to find on Mailer St, about 5 km south of the city centre. The Mornington terminus (bus stop) is right outside the venue.
What is the capacity of Mornington Taphouse?
The main indoor hall (used for bands and events) can hold on the order of 200–240 people. The venue’s function room is officially rated for up to about 240 guests (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). In practice concert crowds often peak around 150–200, so a few extra seats or standing room remain available.
Is Mornington Taphouse wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible. The main entry and ground floor have ramp or level access, and TripAdvisor notes it is “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Staff can assist with any mobility needs if required. (Do pop by the bar on arrival if you need help navigating between spaces.)
Is parking available at Mornington Taphouse?
Yes, there is ample free parking. There are multiple off-street car parks adjacent to the venue and along Mailer St. Reviews and media note “plenty of off-street parking” on site (www.odt.co.nz ) and virtually “no shortage of parking” (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). You should easily find a space even on busy weekends.
Which bus routes serve Mornington Taphouse?
Dunedin’s ORBUS buses stop right in front of the pub. Routes 63 (Logan Park) and 15 or 61 (city–South Dunedin) all terminate at the Mornington Mall/Mailer Street terminus – basically at Mornington Taphouse’s doorstep (moovitapp.com ). Check the latest Otago Regional bus timetables for exact schedules-of-day.
Does Mornington Taphouse serve food and drinks?
Yes – it has a full food menu and a comprehensive bar. The Kitchen & Bar serves classic pub meals (burgers, steaks, fish & chips, salads, etc.) from lunchtime through dinner. The bar stocks a wide drinks range, including local craft beers (Emerson’s Brewery is often on tap (www.odt.co.nz )), wines and spirits. There are also bar snacks and share plates available.
Is Mornington Taphouse family-friendly (kids allowed)?
Yes, Mornington Taphouse welcomes families, particularly during daytime. It offers child-friendly amenities – for example, TripAdvisor notes “Highchairs available” and a small “Playgrounds” area on site (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Of course, after about 10pm the pub is 18+ by law, so younger children should be accompanied by adults and visit earlier in the evening.
How much do concert tickets usually cost at Mornington Taphouse?
Ticket prices vary with the performer. Smaller local bands or open-mic nights are often free or only a few dollars, while touring acts and tribute bands tend to charge around NZ$10–25. (For example, recent rock-concert listings at the venue were typically in the $15–20 range.) Regular quiz nights and sports viewings carry no cover charge beyond the cost of your food and drinks.
When and where is Quiz Night held?
Quiz Night is held every Tuesday evening in the Sports Bar at Mornington Taphouse, typically starting around 7:00 pm (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). It’s a weekly trivia night with teams competing for small prizes. Entry is free.
What is Jingo night?
“Jingo” is the name of the popular bingo night held on the first Wednesday of each month at Mornington Taphouse. It’s typically combined with food specials – for example, attendees can play bingo while enjoying a $10 burger-and-beer combo (morningtontaphouse.co.nz ). The event is family-friendly earlier in the evening (kids can attend) but becomes an adult night by 10pm.
Is Mornington Taphouse wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. Mornington Taphouse is listed as wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). There is step-free access to the main bar area. (As always, it’s a good idea to phone ahead if you have special access needs.)
Do they offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes. The venue provides complimentary Wi-Fi for guests. In fact, the function and conference facilities have built-in tech including free wireless internet, large TV screens and a sound system (www.odt.co.nz ), so you can stay connected throughout the building.
What beers or drinks do they stock?
They stock a standard New Zealand pub selection: local lagers, cider, wines, spirits and craft beer. Notably, they feature range of the local Emerson’s Brewery beers on tap (www.odt.co.nz ). The bar also runs rotating guest taps and maintains a full menu of spirits and cocktails.
What is the dress code? Are casual clothes okay?
There is no formal dress code – smart casual attire is perfectly fine. People typically come in jeans, T-shirts or rugby jerseys when there’s a game on. Just be sure to wear footwear (shoes or sturdy sandals). On colder nights you may want a light jacket for the outdoor areas, but indoors is usually warm.
Can I bring a camera or record video at shows?
Personal photography (for social media) is generally allowed, but professional camera use may require permission. There is no official photographic policy detailed online, so if you plan to record a performance it’s best to ask staff first. (Video recordings can be disruptive to performers and other patrons.)
Are outside drinks or food permitted?
No – standard pub licensing rules apply. Outside alcohol and meals are not allowed. All food and drink should be purchased at the venue’s bars and kitchen. Bringing a snack inside could get you turned away at the door.
