About The Freeport with Cleaver & Co
The Freeport with Cleaver & Co is a popular gastropub located in Bayfair Shopping Centre in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty. Opened in 2019 as part of Bayfair’s new dining precinct , it was co-founded by hospitality veterans Aaron Hodson and Tim McLaren . This family-friendly tavern blends a cozy, rustic bar atmosphere with a modern restaurant offering handcrafted pizzas, hearty barbecue and pub fare. With a wood-fired pizza oven and an extensive craft beer list (including Little Creatures taps), the venue combines warm local charm with upscale pub cuisine. The Freeport stands out for its friendly service, craft beer pedigree and commitment to the community – it was recently named New Zealand’s Best Bar and has won national awards like Best Toastie in NZ (2023) . It serves as a community hub for families, sports fans and locals, offering a casual, welcoming space that reflects Mount Maunganui’s laid-back coastal vibe. The interior features wood and brick accents, plenty of natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows, and a warm, social atmosphere that feels more like a neighbourhood bar than a mall eatery.
The venue is actually two connected areas: “Cleaver & Co” (the main restaurant and bar) and an adjoining covered courtyard called “The Yard.” Together, these spaces seat roughly 150 people (with cocktail capacity beyond that) . Despite being in a shopping centre, The Freeport has its own distinct identity – it’s not just a food court spot but a full-service pub with a retractable roof, TVs for sports, and live entertainment. It’s become notable in the local scene for its live music nights, quiz nights and creative food (the award-winning “Surf, Turf & Smoke” toastie is a local legend ). As one travel guide notes, The Freeport boasts “rustic charm and exceptional pub fare,” with standout dishes like wood-fired Napoli pizzas, calamari and honey-drizzled halloumi, all enjoyed amid a lively yet relaxed ambience . This mix of great food, quality drinks and a friendly vibe makes The Freeport a must-visit spot for both residents and visitors of the Bay of Plenty.
Events and Programming
The Freeport with Cleaver & Co hosts a variety of recurring events and performances throughout the year. Every Friday night, for example, the tavern offers free live music from local bands and solo artists . These Friday nights usually start around early evening and feature genres like covers rock, pop and blues to keep the atmosphere upbeat. In addition to live music, the pub often holds themed trivia and quiz nights (its “pub quiz” is a local favorite, as noted in reviews ). Family-friendly movie showings or sports viewing parties on the big screen happen occasionally, especially during major rugby or football games, taking advantage of the multiple TVs in the venue. The backyard courtyard (“The Yard”) with its retractable roof is popular for DJ nights and small dance parties; the operators invite DJs or streaming playlists to entertain groups, with sound and lighting set up by the bar’s production crew as needed.
Special events also appear on the calendar from time to time. For instance, the pub runs stand-up comedy and “live chat” shows with local comedians and personalities (ticketed events like “Hey, Let’s Chat” have been held here) www.ticketfairy.com . They have also hosted charity fundraisers, live sport trivia, and seasonal parties for occasions like Halloween, Christmas or Bayfair shopping centre festivals. While many regular events are free with food and drink purchases, some comedy or headliner nights carry a small cover charge or ticket fee (tickets are usually sold online or at the door). The bar also offers private-function packages for birthdays, engagements and work parties, where staff arrange set menus or shared platters based on group size .
Overall, patrons can expect at least one or two events most weeks – free live music on Fridays and a casual pub quiz midweek are staples. The programming aims to draw a mixed crowd: families in early evenings, sports fans during game nights, and young adults on weekends. Notable past performances include acoustic singer-songwriters and local cover bands on rotation, while recurring events range from family-friendly board game nights to trivia nights. While exact line-ups vary, typical ticket prices (for paid events) fall in the affordable range (often under $20–$30 per person) for comedy or music shows. The Freeport website and local Bay of Plenty event listings usually announce upcoming shows and ticket links in advance.
Tickets and Booking
For most regular nights, no ticket is required – you can simply walk in and order food or drinks. However, if you plan to dine or gather with a group during peak hours (Friday/Saturday evenings), it’s wise to reserve a table in advance. Reservations for the restaurant can be made through the pub’s website or by calling the venue directly. Private functions (group bookings) often require a deposit and early booking to secure spaces like the entire Yard or full venue. When special performances or comedy shows are scheduled, tickets are sold via event platforms; these may sell out quickly, so interested guests should watch for announcements on the venue’s social media or local event calendars. Generally, tickets to live shows are modestly priced (check local event pages), while everyday dining only requires booking a table if you want to guarantee seating.
Walk-in seating is usually available on slower nights or for patrons ordering food, but on busy nights the bar can get crowded. For popular events, online or phone reservations are advisable as soon as tickets or bookings open. The venue staff handle bookings through their own system and third-party platforms (you might see events listed on ticketing websites). If seats remain, some tickets can also be purchased at the door before a show. The key booking tip is to plan ahead: if there’s a concert, trivia night or big game on, consider arriving early or booking a table in the relevant area (for example, near the stage or screens).
Seating and Layout
The Freeport is laid out in two main areas. The indoor section, known as Cleaver & Co , is an open-plan dining and bar area. It features a mix of long communal tables, standard dining tables, high bar stools, and cozy booths. This area seats about 80 people at fixed tables and more if you include standing at the bar . The furnishing can be rearranged for large groups or events. If you want a quieter meal or better acoustics, the best seats are in the interior closer to the bar or along perimeter windows, where background music and chatter are lively but not overwhelming. For daytime dining or watching sports, seats nearest the multiple flat-screen TVs (mounted on the walls) give good views of the screen. The booths and back wall tables are also comfortable for families or groups looking for a bit more privacy.
The second area, called The Yard , is an adjacent outdoor courtyard under a retractable roof . It offers bench tables, standing leaners and outdoor lounge seating, accommodating about 45 diners or up to 65 in a cocktail mode . This space is bright and airy – perfect for summer or when live music is playing. Tip: on fine evenings, reserve a table in The Yard to enjoy open-air vibes (the roof can open, weather permitting). If you prefer shade or a cozier feel, choose a table under the covered section. Because The Yard is slightly separated from the main bar, sound from a DJ or band can be turned up without overpowering the dining room’s background music . Overall, those near the central stage/DJ area get the best audio experience during events, while side tables in The Yard are better if you want to chat without high volume.
Unique spots include the long ‘leaner’ tables by the bar (great for chatting with bartenders) and the private high-top booths along the walls indoors for group celebrations. There isn’t a formal “VIP” section per se, but reservable corners and booth areas feel more exclusive when booked. Acoustically, the venue is lively: sound carries through both spaces, so expect a buzz rather than silences. If you need quieter dining (e.g. on family outings), early weekday or lunch visits are best, while late-night combos on weekends will be loud. Avoid areas directly in front of large speakers or the DJ booth if you want lower volume. For sporting events, center floor seats give clear lines of sight to screens; during live music, front-and-center in The Yard offers an immersive sound experience.
Getting There and Parking
The Freeport is located at Shop 0704, Bayfair Shopping Centre, 19 Girven Road, Mount Maunganui 3116 . In practice, you enter Bayfair on Girven Road (off Maunganui Road) and walk through the dining precinct (“Dining Lane” outside) to reach the pub’s front door. Bayfair’s extensive parking makes driving very easy – there are nearly 2,000 free parking bays spread around the centre . You can park in any Bayfair lot; the Dining Lane parking (covered or street-level) is most convenient. Parking is free of charge, and spaces are generally ample even on Friday/Saturday nights. Note that at peak times (especially weekends or events), sections of the parking building may fill up, so arriving a little early helps.
For those taking public transit, the Bayfair shopping centre is well-served by Bay of Plenty buses. The main bus stop is on Farm Street, right next to the Bayfair entrance . Several Tauranga routes (including city-to-Mount Maunganui routes) stop here frequently. From the Farm St bus stop, the Freeport is a very short walk – just a few minutes along Bayfair’s outdoor dining lane. Bayhopper shuttle services also run around Mount Maunganui and Papamoa and typically include Bayfair as a stop. So if you’re staying in Tauranga city or Mt Maunganui, catch any bus heading to Bayfair.
Rideshare and taxi users should note the drop-off area on Girven Road at the front of the dining precinct. There’s a taxi rank next to the center entrance, and Uber/Ola drivers will also drop off here. The venue is in a safe, well-lit area of the mall’s outdoor dining strip, so evening walks after a show are generally fine. If walking from nearby, Mount Maunganui’s CBD is about a 10-15 minute walk or a short drive from Bayfair. The main Mount beach (The Mount) is roughly 5 minutes away by car. During late-night hours, taxis are available from outside Bayfair, or catch the late bus/ride-share back to your accommodation. Just remember: if you’ve consumed alcohol, a ride-share or taxi is the safest bet, as parking stays open but public buses have limited runs after 10pm.
Inside the Venue
When you step inside The Freeport, expect a bustling pub atmosphere. On busy nights there’s a full house of chatty diners and music or game sounds in the background. The entry leads into the main bar area (Cleaver & Co) with polished wood finishes and an open ceiling that feels spacious. Security staff occasionally do ID checks at the door on crowded evenings, so carrying photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) is recommended. Jackets or bulky bags can usually be left hangerside; while there’s no formal coat check, staff will keep an eye on items or you can find a corner or booth bench to tuck personal belongings under the table. The venue may enforce basic bag/safety checks on very busy nights (as in most active bars), but generally it’s a relaxed environment.
Food and drink service is at the table or bar. Expect a menu of sharing plates, wood-fired pizzas, steaks, burgers and salads – all made to order with New Zealand ingredients. Signature dishes include pizzas (Napoli-style thin crust), glazed ribs, crispy calamari and gourmet burgers (like the “Classic Beef Burger”, a local hit ). Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available (for example, gluten-free bases for pizza and vegetarian salads). The beverage list is extensive: craft beers on tap (Panhead, Little Creatures, etc.), local wines, ciders and creative cocktails like espresso martinis or mojitos . Full menu and drinks are available at all hours during opening (Brunch through late-night). Expect efficient service from friendly staff; they often do rounds in the dining areas and can come to your table to take orders or bring drinks. The bar itself is a focal point – chat with bartenders at high stools or order at the counter.
One special feature is the many TVs: the venue has installed flat screens in all areas, so you can catch sports, news or even play a slideshow if you’ve booked a function . You might see A-League or Super Rugby on big screens during match times. The overall lighting is warm but bright enough to see menus clearly. If there’s a live band or DJ, stage lighting adds to the fun. The sound system is set up so that live music is felt more in The Yard and background in the dining room, creating two distinct vibes. During busy hours, it can be loud, so conversation with ears on – but that’s part of the lively pub feel.
Other amenities: The Freeport provides free Wi-Fi via the Bayfair network for guests, so you can stay connected or split the bill easily. Restrooms (including accessible toilets) are located within the venue or just outside (as part of Bayfair facilities). Staff will gladly direct you. If you need change or ATMs, Bayfair has machines in the main mall. Coat check isn’t formal, but you’ll find hooks and chair benches. Merchandise is minimal (branded glasses or shirts might be sold occasionally for events), but no big gift shop here. The staff can assist with special needs – for example, highchairs for kids or arranging quieter seating. Overall, expect a friendly, informal environment inside, perfect for dinner, drinks and entertainment without any stiff formalities.
Nearby Amenities
The Freeport is nestled in Bayfair’s outdoor dining precinct, which offers plenty of pre- or post-show options. If you want dinner or drinks just steps away before a night at The Freeport, choice abounds. Bayfair’s “Dine @ Bayfair” area features a range of eateries: Burger Burger (gourmet burgers), Nando’s (peri-peri chicken), Mexican (street-style Mexican fare), Izakai (Japanese-Kiwi fusion), Katsubi (Korean BBQ) and more . So you could start with a margarita at Mexicali or sushi at Izakai before moving next door to The Freeport for the main event. If you prefer something sweet or a coffee afterward, Bayfair has cafes and gelato stands within the mall.
For bars and nightlife, Bayfair itself doesn’t have many separate pubs beyond The Freeport, but it’s just a short drive (or 10-minute walk) from The Mount’s main strip along the esplanade. There you’ll find beachfront bars like Castle, The Blue Beetroot, and plenty of restaurants. Nearby Tauranga city centre (15 minutes by car) offers busier nightlife options if needed. Within Bayfair, though, after The Freeport you can grab a nightcap at Burger Burger’s bar lounge or get a treat at a dessert kiosk – many people prefer to stick around the precinct since it’s so walkable.
Several hotels and motels are close by. Bayfair itself adjoins motels like Asure Lodge and Totara Sands, and a short drive away are larger hotels such as the Ibis Tauranga or the Belmont Motel. If you’re coming from outside Tauranga, popular nearby accommodations include The Pacific Apartments on Maunganui Road (overlooking the beach) and Mount Maunganui Hotel. Because parking at Bayfair is free and plentiful, out-of-towners often stay in any Tauranga hotel and drive up. After a show, getting home is easy – you can walk back to your car in the Bayfair carpark, or hail an Uber/taxi from Girven Road (Bayfair’s front entrance). Night buses also serve Bayfair on main routes, but check schedules as they taper off late. In all, The Freeport is centrally located for the Bay of Plenty – shopping, lodging and eating choices are abundant right in and around the mall.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Freeport with Cleaver & Co has quickly become a local institution for several reasons. First, it has earned a stellar reputation for hospitality and quality. It was voted Hospitality NZ’s Best Bar (2025) at a national awards ceremony , reflecting the excellence of both the owners and staff. Chefs and bartenders here push for creativity: their specialty pizzas are handmade (Napoli style) on-site , and their menu includes unique bay-themed dishes like the award-winning “Surf, Turf & Smoke” toastie . The pub’s collaboration with Little Creatures brewery also means they pour innovative craft brews, making it a go-to place for beer lovers. In short, it’s not an ordinary mall tavern – it’s a gourmet gastropub where even the humble toastie is taken to Michelin-ish heights.
Culturally, The Freeport stands out for celebrating the local community. The co-owners, Tim and Aaron, emphasize being a “community hub” . You’ll find photos of local sports teams and surfers on the walls, and it regularly features New Zealand music and local talent on stage. Important life events are marked here too – the pub often hosts birthday parties, engagement dinners and staff functions, and the owners note that “every function is like an advertisement for new people” . Patrons often remark on the warm, family-like staff culture – general manager Jacquie and head chef Lucas (and their multicultural team of 35) foster a friendly vibe that reflects Bay of Plenty’s diverse community . This sense of local ownership and inclusion (a café stop for shopping, a viewing spot for footy games, a family dinner venue) makes it uniquely beloved in Mount Maunganui.
Architecturally, while it shares space with a mall, the design is distinctive. The retractable roof and outdoor Yard area provide that pub-beach feeling, and the interior’s use of timber and exposed brick gives it a warm “old tavern” flair. The venue’s flexibility (able to split into a quieter restaurant side and a lively bar side) is also special – one night it can have kids playing games on one side, and party music on the other. This duality (and attention to detail in decor and sound) is rare in mall settings.
Finally, The Freeport’s story adds to its character. After a six-week Covid closure, the owners rebuilt and reopened with renewed energy and “committed local support” . That resilience underlines their deep connection to the community. Even out of lockdown, the pub thrives on rainy winter days as well as summer evenings – a testament to its cozy appeal. In summary, The Freeport is special because it blends quality food, award-winning drinks and a warm community spirit in a unique venue that locals now call “an institution” .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible. Entry to the restaurant area has no steps from Bayfair’s outdoor terrace. An accessible toilet is available on-site (usually marked behind the main bar). Staff are happy to assist guests with mobility needs as well.Booking: For large groups, book well in advance – weekends fill up quickly. If you have special requirements (projector for slide show, etc.), mention this when reserving. Walk-ins are welcome when there’s capacity.What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol. NZ law requires checking age at many night events www.ticketfairy.com . Carry some cash if you like (mostly card payments are accepted). A valid parking ticket isn’t needed – parking is free. In winter, dress warmly: while The Yard has a roof, evenings can get chilly when the sides are open.Age Restrictions: All-ages are welcome to dine during the day. After 9pm, under-18s must be accompanied by an adult, as per NZ liquor laws. Certain evening events (notably comedy shows) are strictly 18+ only www.ticketfairy.com , so check event age limits beforehand.Rules: Outside food or drink is not allowed (standard for licensed premises). No charge for small personal items storage, but large suitcases are better left elsewhere. Smoking is banned inside completely; a small covered outdoor area is designated a smoking zone (and by law, 10 meters from entrances) if needed.Noise Level: This is a lively pub, especially on Friday/Saturday nights and during sports broadcasts. If you prefer quiet dining, avoid peak hours or ask the host for a corner table away from the speakers.Dress Code: Casual wear is fine. Locals typically wear jeans and polos or summer dresses. No formal attire is needed, but avoid beachwear (no swimwear to the bar). Footwear is required (sliders are okay during the day, but keep shoes on when the bar gets busy at night).Age for Entry: The venue itself does not have a minimum age until late night. However, some ticketed events at The Freeport are 18+. The general bar area operates like a family-friendly pub until 9pm.Parking Mistakes: Don’t park in reserved or incorrect zones around Bayfair. The Bayfair lots are free, but certain areas (like staff or time-limited bays) should be avoided. Check you’re not blocking entry ways; ushers or mall attendants will guide visitors if unsure.Good to Know: The pub can get busy right at opening time or at kickoff if there’s a big game. Arrive early in those cases. They open daily around 11:30am , so consider a lunchtime visit if evenings are packed. Lunch/dinner portions are generous – consider sharing the larger dishes.Payment: All major credit cards are accepted, and there’s a payment terminal at each table. Splitting the bill is easy and commonly done. Tipping is not expected in NZ, but always appreciated for excellent service.Connect & Follow: For the latest events, follow the venue on social media. They often announce live bands, quiz themes or holiday specials online. Locals also post reviews (the pub is highly rated on TripAdvisor and Google with 4.5 stars) and SunLive news covers its big wins, which can give you a sense of current happenings.”
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book tickets ahead for events at The Freeport?
It depends on the event. Regular Friday night gigs and weekly quizzes are usually free to attend with normal dining reservations. For special performances (like stand-up comedy or ticketed bands), check the pub’s announcements. Tickets for those are often sold via online platforms in advance when advertised. Booking a table early is a smart move for popular nights, even if no formal tickets are needed.
Do I need to purchase a ticket or reserve a table to dine?
No ticket is needed for dining. You can walk in as long as there’s space. On busy evenings, a free table reservation (via phone or the website) guarantees seating. If dining with a large group, booking ahead is recommended. Reserve at least a day in advance on weekends to be safe.
What are the usual ticket price ranges for shows?
Ticket prices vary by event, but The Freeport keeps things affordable. In past comedy or music nights, tickets have typically ranged from about $20 to $30. (Always verify with the event listing.) For free weekly events, there’s no admission charge aside from any food and drink you buy.
Where can I buy tickets for an event?
The venue itself doesn’t sell tickets in person; tickets (if required) are usually sold through advertised event partners. Look for links or instructions on the pub’s official website or social pages. If you see an event on an online listing, it will direct you to the ticket seller. Sometimes limited tickets are sold at the door right before a show if they haven’t sold out.
What is the address and how do I get there by public transport?
The Freeport is at Shop 0704, Bayfair Shopping Centre, 19 Girven Road, Mount Maunganui . By bus, you can take any Baybus route that stops at Bayfair. The closest bus stop is on Farm Street outside Bayfair, a short 2-minute walk from the pub . The Tauranga city link and local Mt Maunganui buses all serve this stop. Taxis and ride-shares drop off on Girven Road outside the main dining entrance.
Is parking available and what does it cost?
Yes – Bayfair has about 2,000 parking spots and it’s all free, first-come, first-served . You can park in any Bayfair lot. For the quickest access to The Freeport, use the parking nearest Dining Lane (there’s an undercover ramp and street parking off Girven Road). There’s no charge or limit on duration.
What seating options are there?
The venue has two main areas: an indoor bar/restaurant and an outdoor-covered courtyard (“The Yard”). Inside, you’ll find booths, tables, and bar stools (seats ~80 people) . The Yard has picnic-style tables and leaner tables (space for ~45 seated plus more standing) . You can choose a high-top by the bar for a sociable vibe, a quiet corner table for family dining, or an outdoor table in The Yard for a casual alfresco feel. Each space has distinct acoustics: indoor is cozier, Yard is lively.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. As part of Bayfair’s newer dining precinct, The Freeport is built with accessibility in mind . Entry and seating areas are on one level with ramps as needed. An accessible bathroom is available on the premises. Staff can help with anything extra you need for a comfortable visit.
Can I bring my children or is there an age limit?
Children are welcome to the restaurant side. It’s a family-friendly place during the day. After 9pm, however, New Zealand law requires that minors leave if alcohol is served (check with staff for events). Some adult-oriented events are 18+ only www.ticketfairy.com . Simply ensure kids are supervised at all times.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are the only pets permitted, in accordance with public building rules. Non-service animals (even on leash) are not allowed inside or in the dining areas. The adjacent mall area is pet-friendly, but not the pub interior.
What are the opening hours?
The Freeport is open daily from 11:30am to 10pm . It’s open all week, so whether it’s a weekday lunch or weekend dinner, you can drop by. Kitchen service usually runs until around 9pm (kitchen closes an hour before last drinks).
What payment methods are accepted?
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, EFTPOS) are accepted at all tables and the bar. Cash is less common but still accepted. Splitting bills is easy – staff can split by item or split the total evenly. Tipping is not required in NZ, but you can add a gratuity on the card reader if you had great service.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code – casual wear is fine. Many visitors come in jeans or summer outfits. Just be clean and presentable. Avoid beaches clothes or swimwear unless you want looks from other diners. In winter, dress warmly; in summer, light clothing is appropriate.
Can I bring outside food or drink?
No. By law, outside alcohol or meals are not permitted. You must purchase food and drinks from the pub’s menu. Small personal items (like unwrapped takeout food) are fine if you’re joining someone, but typically everything is made fresh on site at The Freeport.
Does the pub have live sports?
Yes, they show major sports on multiple big screens (rugby, league, football, etc.). You’ll often find the bar packed for big games or the World Cup. Arrive early on game days to grab a good seat near a screen.
Is there free Wi-Fi?
The Freeport itself doesn’t advertise its own Wi-Fi, but Bayfair Shopping Centre offers free Wi-Fi in the common areas. Some patrons use their personal hotspot or mobile data. Typically you don’t need Wi-Fi beyond checking the menu or posting photos.
Who owns or runs The Freeport with Cleaver & Co?
It is co-founded and operated by Tim McLaren and Aaron Hodson . They have backgrounds in hospitality (both worked at Lion Breweries) and wanted to create a community bar. They still manage day-to-day operations with a local team, including GM Jacquie and head chef Lucas .
What is the venue’s capacity?
The entire venue can seat about 150 people when fully arranged . That includes roughly 80 seated inside Cleaver & Co, plus another 45 in the outdoor Yard. For standing-room or cocktail events, they can accommodate over 100 guests. The actual practical capacity depends on seating setup and how much of the venue is open.
What items are not allowed inside?
Outside alcohol and large coolers/bags (for safety and liquor laws) are not allowed. Weapons or illegal items are obviously prohibited. If you have a large backpack or bicycle, it’s best to leave it in your car. Otherwise, small bags are fine. If in doubt about a specific item (like drone, signage for events), check with staff.
