About Brew Co
Brew Co is a popular bar and eatery in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, combining a craft-beer focus with pub-style food in a casual beach-town setting. It bills itself as “Beer. Music. Food.” at the heart of Mount Maunganui’s main street . Situated at 109 Maunganui Road, it’s described as “everybody’s local” – the kind of place where surfers, locals and visitors mingle over pints off the beach . The interior is open-plan with an industrial-chic design (wooden bar, exposed brick and metal fixtures), and an ever-live atmosphere. Signature features include a large tap list (ranging “from ice-cold Heineken to our ever-changing lineup of local craft brews” ) and a menu “famous for our amazing burgers” alongside gastropub classics like smoky ribs and Reuben sandwiches . Brew Co also stands out for offering entertainment on-site: it’s equipped with a pool table, multiple TVs for live sports and a stage/booth area for music and DJ sets . Though not a historic venue by age (it opened relatively recently), Brew Co has quickly become a fixture of the Mount’s nightlife. Its local significance comes from championing Kiwi craft beer and hosting community events; for many locals it epitomises the laid-back Mount Maunganui vibe .
Events and Programming
Brew Co is as much an entertainment hub as it is a pub. True to its slogan, live music and DJs are a staple here . On any given week you’ll find free quiz nights (usually midweek from 6pm) and nightly live sports broadcasts, plus scheduled gigs and DJ sessions on weekends. For example, the venue hosts weekly “Sunset DJ Sessions” every Sunday afternoon (starting around 3 pm) that feature funk and soul DJs with instruments . In one recent Sunset Session, the house band brought back DJ Juan Chico with saxophone to play classic funk and boogie on a Sunday . Quiz night is promoted as a midweek social (free entry) where teams compete for prizes while enjoying a $20 chicken parmigiana dinner deal . Local bands (rock, reggae, pop) occasionally take the small stage, and guest DJs spin playlists into the night. Special events can include themed parties or acoustic jam nights. Because Brew Co functions primarily as a pub, most of these events have no cover charge – you don’t buy tickets in advance. If a particular show were ticketed (rare), details would be announced online or at the bar. Typical drink prices are on par with Tauranga pubs (a craft beer glass is around NZD 10–12, cocktails ~$15–20, pub meals $20–30), so budgeting a night of a few drinks and a meal might run around $50+ per person. Many regulars consider Brew Co an affordable, lively spot for entertainment – far more casual than big clubs or concert halls.
Tickets and Booking
Because Brew Co is a bar rather than a traditional concert venue, there is no formal ticketing or box office. Most evenings have open door policy, meaning you simply walk in and take a seat (or stand) once you arrive. There are no advance tickets to buy for the usual lineup of free events (quiz night, DJ sessions, live sport viewings, etc.). The exception would be a special external show or private party; however, as of 2025 the venue’s own events are generally free to attend. Instead of tickets, Brew Co does offer table reservations for dining, which can be made via the official website or phone if you have a large group or table. If you plan a party or want to guarantee seating, it’s best to reserve ahead (on busy nights the place fills up). Otherwise, walk-ins are welcome but arriving early (30–60 minutes in advance) on peak nights ensures you get a good spot. At the door, bartenders or staff may perform a quick ID check (to enforce the 18+ drinking age). There’s no separate box office; to “book” any event you simply watch the Brew Co social media or local guides for announcements and then show up on the scheduled date. Finally, note Brew Co’s opening hours: it’s closed on Monday but open Tuesday–Wednesday from 3 pm until late, Thursday from noon to late, Friday–Saturday noon to 1 am, and Sunday noon until late . Plan your visit accordingly, and remember that on weekend evenings it’s wise to arrive a bit early to avoid crowds.
Seating and Layout
The venue is single floor (ground level) with an informal pub layout. There is a long central wooden bar with stools, surrounded by a mix of high and low tables, booths, and a few lounge areas. In front of the bar or on stage setups you’ll find standing room – especially when DJs or bands perform. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reserved or tiered seating sections; no formal VIP area. The best place depends on your preference: if you want to catch live music or DJs, sit near the small stage or speakers; if you prefer a quieter chat, grab a table in the back or by the side. On busy nights, it can get noisy and warm inside, and staff will put on music and lights, so for a more relaxed vibe come earlier or choose the small patio out front (weather permitting). The restaurant menu is served at any table, so feel free to park yourself wherever you like and order from there or the bar. Acoustically, the sound level is moderate – upbeat music and crowd noise are expected, but it’s not deafening. Patron reviews especially praise the outdoor seating – one noted enjoying a beer “sitting outside in the warm weather” . Indeed, Brew Co extends onto the street with a sidewalk patio for those sunny days, offering a view of Maunganui Road. During winter or large events, the focus shifts indoors. Finally, look out for the pool table in one corner if you fancy a game – it’s a common fixture here and adds to the social atmosphere.
Getting There and Parking
Brew Co’s exact address is 109 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116 . It sits roughly midway block on the main shopping strip, about two blocks inland from The Strand beachfront. By car, there are metered street parks along Maunganui Road (watch out for time limits and paymachines). For longer stays or overflow, a secure option is the nearby Wilson Parking lot at 290 Maunganui Road, which charges a casual rate (around $2 for the first hour) . Street parking is generally slower to fill up before noon and fills quickly after afternoon. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) and local taxis can drop off at the corner; busy night pick-ups often wait on Maunganui Rd. Public buses (Baybus) run routes through Mount Maunganui – for example, Tauranga’s Route 5 connects the Mount with Bayfair and the city center, with stops along Maunganui Rd within a short walk of Brew Co. Consult the Baybus schedule for specific routes and timetables. If you’re on foot or bike, Brew Co is easily accessible – it’s a quick stroll from the Mount’s main car park or from hotels on the oceanfront. The main traffic street, Maunganui Road, is pedestrian-friendly; a short walk further takes you to the Mount Maunganui bus interchange if needed. Overall, it’s best to arrive a bit early on weekend nights to secure parking or a drop-off point, as the area can get busy with nearby eateries and bars.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, guests find a lively, friendly atmosphere. A typical visit involves ordering at the bar: there’s no coat-check and bar seating is available on a first-come basis. Security is minimal but sufficient – staff may glance inside bags on a crowded night, and they strictly ID anyone who looks younger than 25 (NZ law requires 18+ with ID to drink). The vibe inside is casual and social: people of all ages (18+) mingle during evenings, especially when sports events or music are on. Staff are attentive and many.
Food and drink are central: the menu features bar classics (burgers, wings, fish and chips, etc) and a variety of mains. In fact, Brew Co promotes itself as “famous for... our amazing burgers” and a gastro-pub menu from ribs to parmies . Lighter bar snacks are also available, such as **cheesy gravy fries**, garlic pizza bread and calamari . The kitchen generally serves through the evening (ask staff for last orders). Beverages include dozens of taps (lager, ale, cider, plus changing craft beer specials) and a full-bar of wines, spirits and cocktails. Many regulars note how “the burger I had was delicious” , showing the food gets rave reviews. Check the menu at the front or on tables for daily specials.
The restrooms are inside and clearly signed (with modern facilities). There is no formal bar or table-side merch, but sometimes Brew Co offers gift vouchers or brewery swag. Mobile reception and Wi-Fi are generally available (ask staff for the network name and password). Keep your phone charged to coordinate meet-ups – the noise can be loud when a band plays, making calls harder.
Overall, expect a quintessential Kiwi pub atmosphere: basic but clean and welcoming. On a weekday evening it might feel like a local pub plaza with happy chatter, while on weekends it turns lively like a nightclub. One tip from patrons: when it’s warm, shift outside where there’s often a nice breeze and people-watching along Main Street . Otherwise, gather inside around the bar or a big booth, and enjoy the upbeat crowd.
Nearby Amenities
Brew Co’s prime location means plenty of nearby services. Just steps away on Maunganui Road are numerous dining and drinking options if you want to explore before or after. For pre-show dining, you can find cafes and restaurants serving pizza, seafood, Thai, burgers, and classic Kiwi fare along this strip. For example, within a few blocks are casual spots like a family fish-and-chips cafe, a laid-back Thai restaurant, and The Wharf – a modern New Zealand eatery known for seafood and steaks. For a quick snack or coffee, there’s a bakery and a couple of bars offering lounge-style bites.
If you plan to stay overnight in Mount, there are several hotels and motels very close. Along Maunganui Road and just off it you’ll find places such as Pacific Coast Motor Lodge, the Triangle Motels, and Quest Mount Maunganui (all within a 5-10 minute walk). These range from simple motels to higher-end seaside lodgings. In other words, you could park elsewhere and walk to the bar from your accommodation easily.
When to arrive: If you want to hit the venue for dinner, note that most restaurants on the strip serve dinner from 5pm onward. If you aim to catch a 7pm show, arriving around 6pm lets you dine comfortably before the crowd. On weekend nights, people often turn up around 8pm. Avoiding traffic, aim for earlier if you’re driving or find parking. Late-night options: if you’re staying around, note that after Brew Co closes (1am on weekends), you might take a taxi or Uber to hotels or head home. The main bus service (Route 5) runs until roughly midnight, so plan rideshares or cabs for late departures. All in all, Brew Co is in the heart of the Mount’s cafe/bar precinct – it’s easy to grab a drink at Brew Co and then hop next door for dessert or cocktails at one of the trendy late-night lounges nearby.
What Makes This Venue Special
Brew Co is special because it embodies the Mount Maunganui lifestyle: laid-back, fun, and community-oriented. Architecturally, the building is unassuming, but inside it pulses with local culture. It stands out by celebrating Kiwi craft beer and nightlife in one spot – rotating taps of New Zealand brews keep things fresh . Its also one of the few venues in Mount to fuse a beach-town vibe with club-like energy. Noted local moments include the tradition of Sunday afternoon DJ sets on the outdoor deck, which have become a weekly ritual . Staff and regulars say Brew Co “fits really well with the Mount vibe” , meaning it feels like a true part of the community rather than a hangout imported from elsewhere. While not a venue of historic architecture, Brew Co’s cultural impact grows from drawing people together – from rugby fans watching international games on big screens to tourists grabbing a craft beer before heading to the beach. Artists appreciate that the crowd is friendly and that the sound system is decent for an intimate gig. In essence, Brew Co is loved for its authenticity: no faux themes or expensive covers, just good drinks, good music, and a crowd of mates. The name “Brew Co” hints at brewing tradition, even if they don’t brew on-site – but they live up to it by supporting local breweries on tap. All these qualities (great burgers , lively events , friendly staff) combine to make Brew Co stand out in the Bay of Plenty as a quintessential Mount Maunganui pub.
Visitor Tips and Information
Here are some insider tips to make your visit smoother. ID and age: By law, only those 18+ may drink in bars. Guests will likely be asked for ID if they appear under 25. If you have minors (under-18 children), they may stay only in some areas and usually must leave by 9 pm. What to bring: A photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) is required to buy alcohol. Leave large backpacks or outside alcohol at home (they’re not allowed inside). Dress code: Very casual. T-shirts, jeans and sandals are fine – no need for formal attire. Shorts and a band tee virtually guarantee entry. Weather: This is New Zealand, so it can rain – but there’s cover indoors and a covered outdoor awning. If it’s sunny, the outdoor patio is pleasant; if it’s cold, choose indoor heating by the bar. Peak times: Friday and Saturday nights after 8 pm are busiest. If you want quieter dining, try weekday or pre-dinner hours. For popular events (like a big game or live band), arrive early to get a table or good viewing spot. Safety: Brew Co is laid-back but always stay aware in crowds. Trust that staff are friendly – it’s common for people to chat to strangers here. Tip bartenders if they serve you quickly. Special deals: Keep an eye out for weekly specials: e.g. quiz-night $20 chicken parm specials . Happy hour may pop up on the menu board in early evenings. Accessibility: Brew Co is wheelchair accessible (flat entrance and main level) and has accessible toilets, but always tell staff if you need any help. Kids: Families with children often visit during daytime or early evenings, especially for lunch and non-busy days (Sunday afternoons can see kids). They are not common on late-night weekends. Music and noise: Expect loud music and conversations once crowds fill in. If you have sensitive hearing, sit a bit back from speakers. Local slang: Neat Kiwi phrases you might hear: “arvo” (afternoon), “parmy” (chicken parmigiana), “brew” (beer). Others will call out cheers – respond with a toast or “cheers mate!”. Tipping: Tipping isn’t expected in NZ, but always appreciated by good service staff. Payments: Credit/debit cards are accepted for drinks and food. Having a small amount of cash can help for quick splitting or tipping. Don’t miss: If you love craft beer, ask what’s on tap beyond the standard brews. And check the specials board each time. In summary: chill, enjoy the vibes, and treat Brew Co like your local hangout – go in relaxed, order a great burger, and soak up the live music and friendly NZ pub culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Brew Co located?
Brew Co’s address is 109 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, in the Bay of Plenty. It’s in the heart of Mount’s Main Street (shopping and dining precinct), about two blocks from the beach. Use that address in GPS or maps to find it easily.
What are Brew Co’s opening hours?
Brew Co is closed Mondays. From Tuesday to Wednesday it opens from 3 pm until late evening. On Thursday it opens from 12 pm (noon) to late. Friday and Saturday it’s open from 12 pm through 1 am (weekend late-night hours), and Sunday from 12 pm until late evening. Always check for any holiday hours or events.
Do I need to buy tickets or pay a cover charge?
No, Brew Co generally does not sell tickets or charge a cover for its usual events. Most nights (quizzes, live DJs, sports broadcasts) are free to enter – just walk in and pay for drinks/food only. If a special show ever requires tickets, it would be advertised in advance, but that’s rare. Essentially think of Brew Co as a bar where you pay bar prices, not ticket prices.
Is there outdoor seating at Brew Co?
Yes, Brew Co has some outdoor seating on the sidewalk patio along Maunganui Road. It’s popular on sunny days – as one reviewer noted, customers love “sitting outside in the warm weather” . The outdoor area is covered by an awning and heater lamps, so you can use it in light rain or cool evenings too. In peak summer or early evening, outdoor tables are great for a breezy ocean view.
Are children or families allowed at Brew Co?
Yes -- Brew Co is ultimately a pub but it’s family-friendly during daytime or early evening. Kids (under 18) are permitted if accompanied by an adult, and often families dine there earlier in the evening. However, after around 9pm it shifts to an adult focus (and by law children must leave at closing time). So families can enjoy the burgers and shakes in the afternoon or relaxed early-evening, but it’s not a nightclub, so very late nights are not kid-oriented. (Remember, no one under 18 can be served alcohol.)
Is Brew Co wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Brew Co is wheelchair accessible. The entrance at street level has no steps, and the interior is one large open space. There are disabled-access restrooms on site as well. If you need assistance, Brew Co’s staff are typically happy to help make room at a table or bring drinks to the bar. (For full compliance details, you may call ahead, but in practice the venue is accessible.)
Is there parking available nearby, and what does it cost?
Yes. There is street parking along Maunganui Road (metered), though it fills up on busy nights. Pay-and-display machines charge roughly $2–4 per hour depending on the spot. Additionally, there are private lots close by – for example, the Wilson Parking lot at 290 Maunganui Rd is about a 5-minute walk and offers paid spaces from about $2.00 (NZD) casual rate . On-street parking can sometimes be free for the first 15–30 minutes (check signs) and is plentiful in daytime. If you don’t want to park, the venue is also a short walk from Tauranga’s city buses.
Which bus should I take to get to Brew Co?
Bay of Plenty’s Baybus service connects Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. For example, the Tauranga City to Bayfair route (#5) runs along Maunganui Road and stops near Brew Co. Also, summertime shuttles and other Baybus routes serve Mount Maunganui. To plan exactly, check the Baybus website or Google Maps: search for “Baybus Route 5 to Mount Maunganui” or similar. The Mount Maunganui bus interchange (one stop from Brew Co) is on Island View Road – you’re only a few minutes’ walk from there.
Is there a dress code at Brew Co?
No formal dress code. Casual attire is perfectly fine at Brew Co – think jeans, T-shirts, shorts and sneakers. Beachwear (like flip-flops and board shorts) is also acceptable given the beachfront vibe. Many people come straight from the beach. The only rule is sensible clothing and footwear (shoes are required by health regulations). In short: come as you are, as long as you’re dressed and decently covered!
Is smoking allowed inside Brew Co?
No – like all New Zealand bars, Brew Co is a non-smoking venue indoors. If you wish to smoke (cigarette or vape), you must step outside. The front outdoor seating area can be used for smoking, as it’s in the open air. Always be mindful of local laws: smoking is only allowed outside and at the footpath level.
Does Brew Co offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, Brew Co provides Wi-Fi to customers. The network and password are usually posted near the bar or on a tabletop sign; just ask the staff if you don’t see them. In practice, mobile phone signal is also strong, but free Wi-Fi can be handy if you need to take a phone order, check tickets or social media.
What type of beers does Brew Co serve? Do they brew their own beer?
Brew Co is a pub, not a brewery, so it does not brew its own beer on-site. Instead, its wide tap list features mainstream beer brands and a rotating selection of New Zealand craft beers . You can typically find guest taps from local breweries and creative ales, alongside staples like lager and cider. Ask the bartender about what’s on tap – many drinks are changed seasonally. So while Brew Co champions craft brew, it mostly taps kegs from breweries around NZ rather than pouring only its own label.
What food is Brew Co known for?
Brew Co offers classic pub food and is particularly known for its gourmet burgers . The menu highlights include juicy burgers, chicken parmies, smoked ribs, and a famous Reuben sandwich. One online reviewer even noted the burger was “delicious” . They also serve bar snacks like cheesy fries, calamari and garlic bread . In short, expect hearty Kiwi pub fare – burgers, chicken dishes, wings, and fish & chips are specialties. Veggie options and salads may also be available.
How do I book a table at Brew Co?
You can reserve a table by contacting Brew Co directly. They offer table bookings for dinner parties, which can usually be made through their official website’s reservation system or by phoning the venue (check their “Contact” page for number). Advance booking is recommended on Friday and Saturday nights or for large groups. If you don’t book ahead, you can still walk in and find seating (either at the bar or any open table), but during peak hours it’s first-come, first-served.
