Events at Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

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Mardi Gras Warm up, Friday at Kings Ohakune - Event in Ohakune

Mardi Gras Warm up, Friday at Kings Ohakune

06 November 2020 Friday / 08:00 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

Lost Tribe Aotearoa - Ohakune - Event in Ohakune

Lost Tribe Aotearoa - Ohakune

24 October 2020 Saturday / 08:00 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

Lost Tribe Aotearoa - Event in Ohakune

Lost Tribe Aotearoa

24 October 2020 Saturday / 04:22 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

TREi with MC Jabz - Event in Ohakune

TREi with MC Jabz

01 August 2020 Saturday / 09:00 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

Tom Francis Live at Kings Ohakune - Event in Ohakune

Tom Francis Live at Kings Ohakune

24 August 2019 Saturday / 09:00 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

The Feijoa Festival Co Presents: The Winter Fest! - Event in Ohakune

The Feijoa Festival Co Presents: The Winter Fest!

21 July 2018 Saturday / 10:00 PM

Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation, Ohakune

About Kings Ohakune – Bar, Restaurant & Accommodation

Kings Ohakune is a historic hotel/pub nestled in the Ohakune Junction, serving as a lodge, restaurant and bar all in one. Established in 1913, it’s the oldest continuously operating hotel in the Ruapehu District (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). The two-level building sits prominently on 3 Rimu Street (the junction area), overlooking the railway line and just 250 metres from the start of the Ohakune Mountain Road (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). Once a classic 1910s alpine lodge, Kings now feels like a warm, wood-lined pub with huge windows and a large outdoor deck offering sweeping views of Mt Ruapehu (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). Family-run by the Robinsons, the venue is an “institution” in town – renowned for hearty Kiwi hospitality, locally sourced food and craft beers on tap (Ruapehu Brewing’s own ales) (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). The main restaurant serves generous pub fare and fine dishes crafted by local chefs, making Kings famous not just as a bar but also for its full menu (including burgers, steaks, soups and dessert). With two hot tubs outside and a drying room for ski and bike gear, it doubles as a cozy lodge after a day in the mountains (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). In peak season it can host around 350 guests at once – making it one of the largest hospitality venues in the Central North Island (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). Its name and façade have a regal feel to some, but the vibe inside is casual and friendly, with locals and visitors mixing over a pint and traditional pub games.

Events and Programming

Life at Kings Ohakune revolves around events and entertainment. The sprawling main bar has its own stage, a full-size dance floor and even a 121-inch projector screen – reportedly the largest in town (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). This “cinema room” setup means sport broadcasts, movies or presentations can be put on. Regularly, Kings hosts live music of every genre (rock bands, acoustic singers, DJs, reggae acts, etc.), stand-up comedy shows, local cultural events and outdoor-themed film nights. For example, rock legend Jon Toogood (frontman of Shihad) performed an intimate acoustic show here, and youth-oriented Drum’n’Bass nights (like TREi with MC Jabz in late 2020) have been on the calendar (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.ticketfairy.com). There’s also family-friendly cinema nights: in April 2024 and 2025 Kings hosted the “Big Bike Film Night” screening of mountain-bike adventure films (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Sport fans will find the big-screen TVs crucial – rugby, cricket or football matches are often projected onto the wall so everyone can watch. The marquee annual event is the Ohakune Beer Festival, held each Easter weekend on Kings’ lawn. It launched in 2021 and has become a staple Easter celebration (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). Normally on the Saturday of Easter, the festival features 15-20+ independent breweries pouring sample tastings all afternoon. Highlights include local legends like Ruapehu Brewing, LADS Brewing and others, live music from mid-afternoon onwards, and gourmet BBQ food stalls (www.visitruapehu.com) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). It’s family-friendly from 2–5pm (kids enter free with supervision), then becomes an adult-only (R18) party until late (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.visitruapehu.com). Each ticket comes with a souvenir beer glass and tasting tokens around $3.50 each. In 2025, early-bird festival tickets were about NZ$50, with general admission candle around $60 (www.visitruapehu.com). Aside from these big events, Kings frequently runs themed nights and smaller gigs. There are Murda Night dance parties (e.g. Mardi Gras warm-ups), reggae club nights (“Lost Tribe” tours in 2020 (www.ticketfairy.com)), trivia and quiz evenings, and even small theatre or comedy pieces. Comedy tours stop here too – for instance the “Bitter, Twisted and On Tap Country Comedy Tour” played at Kings (4 Oct, 7:30pm) as listed on local event sites. Every weekend in winter it’s common to find live acoustic folk or rock; in summer months you might see blues jams or jazz. Special fundraising events (like ski-gear drives or charity breakfasts) happen sporadically. In short, Kings is an all-ages community venue: from daytime family film-show to nighttime dance club, it aims to provide a variety of entertainment. Events are typically free entry on open-hours nights, while ticketed concerts and festivals usually cost NZ$20–$60, depending on the performer and festival package (www.visitruapehu.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Tickets and Booking

Ticketing for Kings’ events is mostly handled online or at the venue. Small gigs and comedy nights often use New Zealand ticketing platforms (like Flicket or Humanitix) and local promoters. For the annual Beer Festival, tickets are sold through Humanitix or Kings’ own channels. Large events are advertised well in advance via Kings Ohakune’s website and social media. The bar itself doubles as a local “box office”: you can usually call or pop in to ask if any tickets remain (and sometimes buy door-tickets if not sold out). Major shows tend to go on sale 1–2 months ahead, and early-bird discounts may be offered (for example, festival tickets sold for $50+bf vs $60 latter as described on the event listing (www.visitruapehu.com)). Advance purchase is recommended for popular or limited-capacity shows – Kings’ interior holds only a few hundred people, and intimate acoustic gigs often sell out quickly. There are no fixed seating tiers in most shows. Kings uses unreserved general admission for concerts: seating is on a first-come basis and there are movable tables and chairs around the perimeter of the room (and some benches upstairs or outdoors for lodge guests). For bigger festival days, the lawn outside becomes standing-room or picnic style seating. Student or member discounts may occasionally apply, but children under the age limit (see Policies) usually don’t need tickets when events are “family-friendly”. In general, expect rock/pop concerts to run $25–35, and dance/club nights around $20–30, whereas a half-day festival pass is closer to $50–$60 (www.visitruapehu.com). Door sales (pay-at-door) are sometimes available, but can be slightly more expensive. The Kings front desk can also register you on waiting lists or mailing lists for last-minute releases. Remember that final confirmation (and wristband collection) typically happens at the door: bring ID and your digital ticket (or reference) for scanning.

Seating and Layout

Kings Ohakune is largely an open-plan pub. The main hall (often called the “Cinema Room”) is one large flat floor with a stage at one end and bar at the other, plus a checkered dance floor right in front of the stage (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). Against the wall opposite the stage, there are booths and high tables for dining; several lounge areas and a large fireplace in a raised section (with a Hearst Castle chandelier – a quirky statement piece) provide extra seating. When shows are on, guests can stand or sit facing the stage. There are no formal balcony or stadium-style seats, so views depend on positioning: front-row is great for dancing and an up-close view of performers, while standing a few metres back (or sitting at a table) gets you more of a broad perspective. Acoustically, the system is managed by local AV experts (DoubleDrop), so sound is clear but powerful – if you stand too close to the speakers you’ll feel the bass, but otherwise the mix is well-balanced (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). Depending on preference, the best vantage might be just off-centre in the first 5–6 meters of the dance floor. In practice, most people pick a spot and stay there. If you prefer not to crowd the dancers, the booth seats by the side walls (away from speakers) offer a comfortable alternative – and often good sightlines to both stage and big screen. For a quieter experience, the small private dining room (looping off the main bar) can sometimes be opened with a view of the screen – it seats a few dozen and has its own fireplace (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). Otherwise, don’t fret about “bad seats” – with only 350 capacity, even standing at the back keeps you fairly close. One tip: avoid standing right along the rail platform edge (unless you like train backgrounds), as occasional engine horns or trains passing can be distracting. In seated events (like talks or comedy), the front rows of tables can be reserved by early bookers, while parties often rent the whole venue for cocktail-style mingling.

Getting There and Parking

Kings Ohakune is located at 3 Rimu Street in Ohakune’s town junction (postcode 4625). If driving, it’s at the intersection of State Highway 47 (toward Waiouru) and the Ohakune Mountain Road. Coming from Wellington or Palmerston North, take SH1 to Bulls, then SH3/SH4 north to Ohakune. From the west (Manawatu or the Central Plateau), take SH1 via Raetihi and turn onto SH4 at Rangataua. The venue sits just off the main highway junction, with direct access from Rimu Street (look for the historic two-story facade and outdoor deck). There is a small onsite parking lot behind the hotel, plus free street parking along Rimu Street and nearby Griffiths Street (www.hotels.au). In fact, Kings is one of the few Ohakune businesses with explicit parking listed (“Free parking nearby”, according to accommodation sites) (www.hotels.au). Typically you’ll find plenty of spots immediately adjacent; if the lot is full, neighboring streets have public spaces (though be mindful of any snow-clearing restrictions in winter). Parking is free – unlike in the ski-field car parks, there’s no charge on Rimu or the hotel carpark. For larger events, patrons sometimes park a few blocks away and hop into the shuttle buses that run between town and the venue. Public transport: you can reach Kings by train or bus. The Ohakune Railway Station is literally across the road – Kings overlooks the junction railway tracks (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). The Northern Explorer scenic train (Auckland–Wellington route) stops at Ohakune several times a week (Auckland→Wgtn trains arrive Mondays/Thursdays/Saturdays; Wgtn→Auckland arrive Wednesdays/Fridays/Sundays (www.greatjourneysnz.com)). After stepping off the train, it’s a very short walk (200m) to the hotel’s front door. InterCity coaches also serve Ohakune (the main stop is near the visitor centre), so check those timetables if you prefer bus travel. During snow season, Kings is also connected indirectly to shuttle services: a complimentary Ruapehu Snow Shuttle bus runs daily from Ohakune to the ski fields (from the town centre, about 5 minutes away) (www.nzherald.co.nz). You can use this and back to ski, then arrive at Kings either via the free shuttle run or by driving back off-mountain. (Note: free shuttles discourage driving up the ski road.) Ohakune’s local taxis and ride-share are limited – there are a couple of proposals for on-demand apps, but in 2025 most visitors either walk or arrange a car. If needed, you might need to call ahead for a local cab service.

Inside the Venue

Expect a lively, down-to-earth lodge atmosphere inside. When you enter the bar area, you’ll see wooden floors and walls, framed retro posters, and a big mounted screen. The central bar is staffed with friendly locals who pour beer, wine and spirits – Ruapehu craft beers on tap are a highlight (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). They serve full meals too, with a menu posted on chalkboards or screens. Service is generally quick and warm; during events, check-in typically involves presenting your ticket at the door. Bag searches are minimal, but large backpacks may be checked for security during concerts. Amenities include pool and ping-pong tables (www.hotels.au) (www.tripadvisor.com). In fact, Kings is surprisingly family-friendly by day: reviews mention kids being entertained with a foosball (table football) set and ping-pong, and a special children’s menu on hand (www.tripadvisor.com). Vintage arcade machines or board games aren’t formally provided, but impromptu games are common. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the main area and also in the guest rooms upstairs (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.hotels.au), so you can catch up online or share photos of the show. Phone reception (all major NZ carriers) is usually strong given the location. Smoking: like all NZ bars it’s non-smoking indoors. There is a designated outdoor smoking area on the deck (often just roped-off outside seating). Restrooms are located toward the back of the building; note that Kings is **not** wheelchair-accessible due to steps towards some areas (www.hotels.au) (guests have reported that it’s “wheelchair accessible – no” on listings). If you need wheelchair access or special assistance, it’s wise to contact the venue ahead of time. For food and drink: Kings is primarily a beer-and-burger type place, but dishes range from pub classics (big burgers, fries, wings – “best wing night in town” according to reviews) to gourmet mains and vegetarian options (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.hotels.au). Prices are moderate (NZ$15–25 for mains, plus cocktails or Kiwi wines). Kitchen hours vary, but dinner is usually served until around 9–10pm (later on big event nights). Snacking during shows is supported by a takeaway counter or by ordering at the bar anytime. There’s no formal coat check in the bar area, but coat racks or hooks are available if needed. Connectivity: There’s no ATM inside, so bring some cash (although EFTPOS cards are accepted). As 38] notes, Kings operates year-round with solid patronage ([www.bayleys.co.nz), so you can rely on consistent hours: typically the restaurant opens by 11am each day, happy hour in late afternoon, and the bar runs until 1am (sometimes later for major events). During full-moon ski parties or peak summer, the bar might even stay open later. A petty-listed “medical room” or the local i-Site (right across the street) is better for health issues. In short, inside Kings feels like a community pub: casual, boisterous at night, and very social – a place to chat with locals over craft beer and tasty Kiwi food.

Nearby Amenities

The Ohakune township offers plenty around Kings. Being in town centre, it’s a short walk to shops and eateries. Steps away is Ohakune’s main visitor centre (i-SITE) which can help with transportation or touring questions. For pre-show dining, nearby popular spots include Two Rivers Cafe (a four-minute walk, known for brunch and lunches) and La Casita Mexican Restaurant (two blocks east, great for casual meals). If you want a sit-down dinner, Alexander’s Restaurant & Bar (Japanese-NZ fusion) and the old-timey Plateau Country Hotel (Ratumea Street) are within 5 minutes walk. The famed Platypus Arms Pub is a few blocks north on Rimu and is another lively pub dining option. Many bars (Kings, Redoubt, Alexandra’s) are within easy strolling distance if you arrive early. If you’re staying overnight, there are hotels and hostels nearby. In fact, Ohakune’s most central motels (Ohakune Lodge, Motor Lodge, Kings itself) are all within 500m on Rimu Street. More budget-friendly dorms (Rimu Park, Two Rivers Backpackers) or holiday parks (Top 10 Ohakune) lie a 5–10 minute drive away. If driving, note that late-night parking is generally safe in town – streetlights cover most areas and locals often walk home from the bar rather than drive. Taxis in Ohakune are limited; the better option is to arrange a shuttle back through your accommodation or use the ski bus (which often services hotels). As for nightlife after Kings: the town quiets significantly after midnight. The few other bars (Redoubt, Crown & Kettle) close around the same time. If you need late transport, arrange a pick-up well in advance or stay in one of the 24-hour lodges. Many festival patrons simply camp or stay over in town. For other activities, Ohakune is famed for hiking and skiing – trails like the Mangawhero River walk (600m from Kings) and Mount Ruapehu runs (ski fields 20min by shuttle) start very close. Bike trails (Old Coach Road) launch from town too. Essentially, arriving 1–2 hours early is wise if you plan to enjoy Ohakune’s day offerings or need dinner before convinced showtime.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several things set Kings Ohakune apart. First, its history and character: being over a century old gives it heritage status – Bayleys marketing even calls it “the historic landmark hotel” of the Ruapehu region (www.nzherald.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). It has seen generations of ski bums, trampers and locals come through. The building still retains some classic charm: the private dining room’s chandelier, the big open fireplace, the old railway views out the windows. One feels tied into the mountain-town lore (the pub is often mentioned in Ruapehu history tours as a must-see). Second, its versatility: not just a bar, Kings is a year-round community hub (www.bayleys.co.nz) (www.bayleys.co.nz). In winter it’s packed with skiers and snowboarders warming up (the hotel even has ski gear drying facilities and hot tubs (www.kingsohakune.co.nz)). In sunny months it’s a meetup spot for mountain bikers, kayakers, hikers – indeed Bayleys notes that summer visitation has ‘really picked up’ thanks to outdoor adventure growth (www.bayleys.co.nz). The menu adjusts accordingly (more dinners in winter, more BBQ and salads in summer). Locally, Kings hosts wedding receptions, family reunions and club events; travelers often recall it as the funky place where their group played pool. Third, the entertainment pedigree: while many small towns have a pub, few have a built-in concert hall. Artists and promoters love Kings because it feels intimate yet can swing a full stage setup. Big-name Kiwi acts (like Jon Toogood (www.kingsohakune.co.nz)) have graced this stage, and the local crowd energy is famous in Ruapehu. The amateurs love it too; nearby concert-goers see it as a rite of passage (there are stories of local rock bands’ first gigs here). The laid-back, friendly crowds (as one reviewer calls it, a “friendly local gem”) (www.tripadvisor.com) make even out-of-towners feel at home. Finally, its role in the community: Kings often gives back. The owners (Stu and his wife Jo Robinson) are known in town – Stu is sometimes spotted pouring beers or greeting guests. They’ve co-run birthday parties and charity drives, and their staff often sponsor local sports teams. In winter 2024, the King’s Christmas bagels property function earned locals’ affection. Because of this family-run care, many patrons say “we’ll be back – this place feels like home” (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). All this combines to make Kings not just a place to drink, but a centerpiece of Ohakune’s social life and cultural identity.

Visitor Tips and Information

- **Accessibility:** Kings is not wheelchair-accessible. The building has steps into some areas, and listings note “Wheelchair accessible – no” (www.hotels.au). If you have mobility needs, call ahead to confirm any accommodations. The venue does have an accessible parking spot on-site and level entrances, but the stage room floors are uneven. - **Entry Requirements:** It’s a licensed bar, so from 6pm until closing only over-18s with valid photo ID are allowed into the drinking areas (though children may attend family-friendly events before then). Always carry ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) for yourself and any under-18s in your party. If an event is advertised 18+ (like most club nights or adult comedy), you may be asked to show ID at the perimeter. - **Dress Code:** Very casual. Most customers wear jeans, flannel, or ski jackets. Since it’s a mountain town, even summer nights can be cool – bringing an extra layer is smart, especially if you plan to use the outdoor deck or hot tubs. No fancy attire needed for any event here. - **Food and Drink:** The bar is busy at concerts; consider ordering food around intermission or early. You can also bring snacks (child-friendly or festival events are more lenient). Dry weather is common, but if it rains plan accordingly: the deck is covered but can get dripped on; inside gets a bit steamy if full. - **What to Bring:** Besides ID and tickets (print or digital), bring cash just in case (some older locals tip in cash). Phones work fine, but lockers are not available – keep valuables on you or in a jacket pocket. A portable phone charger is handy, and ironically, some patrons have even borrowed phone chargers here (it happened!). For festivals or outdoors-concerts, bring sunscreen and a raincoat as weather can change rapidly in the mountains. - **Conduct:** The bouncers are generally polite but firm. It’s Kiwi laid-back culture – roughhousing is discouraged. Respect others (especially at film events keep talking low). If bringing children, keep them within reach. Pets (even service animals) are not allowed due to liquor licencing laws. - **Smoking:** Not indoors. Use the outdoor smoking section only (on the deck or specified corner). There’s an ashtray outside. - **Safety:** We note the dance floor is made of black-and-white tiles; those can be slippery for heels, so choose shoes carefully. Also, train tracks are directly outside – don’t wander on them! - **Beers and Fees:** If attending the Beer Festival, be aware of the token system (tasting glasses are exact measure and returned for€ refill). Many other nights are consume-as-you-go, tap beers are NZ standard servings (pint or schooner). Happy hour deals or daily specials (Wing Wednesday etc.) may apply outside concert times – check their social media or chalkboards. - **Early Arrival:** On big nights, Kings can fill up. If you want a good spot or a table, get there at least 20–30 minutes before doors open. Locals often claim tables early. - **Lodge Facilities:** If you’re staying in one of Kings’ upstairs rooms, breakfast service (additional charge) is available from 7–10am. House guests also get complimentary coffee all morning and a discount on bar drinks. Hitting the in-house hot tubs after closing can be very relaxing – it’s AYB (Alcohol-Yes-But don’t get wasted in there!) - **Nearby:** Locate the public toilets on Kawhatau Bloc (a block north) if needed, and ATMs at the i-SITE or 24‐hour service at the Caltex station. By late evening the main street is quiet, so arrange rides/be ready to walk back if you leave after last call.

What is the capacity of Kings Ohakune?

Kings has a fairly large main bar and lounge area. According to their Function & Event brochure, the venue can accommodate up to about 350 people in total (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). This includes the main downstairs room and any overflow onto the deck. There is no fixed seating cap to assign; it’s essentially general admission, so as long as it’s not over 350, you’ll fit (in practice, shows usually stay below that number).

How do I buy tickets for shows at Kings Ohakune?

Tickets for concerts and special events are sold primarily online or at the door. Kings typically announces events on its website and partners with online sellers (e.g. event ticketing sites). The venue itself does not have a separate ticket booth, but often sells or reserves tickets via phone or email if you call ahead. Popular events (like the Beer Festival) use a ticket platform where you can pay by credit card. If you miss pre-sales, Kings usually allows some door sales (subject to capacity). It’s best to purchase in advance if possible - early bird prices are slightly cheaper ($50 vs $60 for the Beer Fest) (www.visitruapehu.com), and shows can sell out.

Is there reserved seating or general admission?

Most events at Kings are general admission, meaning there are no assigned seats. Tables and chairs are first-come, first-served. For concerts, the main floor is open standing/dancing in front of the stage, with some seating around the edges. For seated events (like sometimes comedy or presentations) you can grab a table when you arrive. Unless an event specifically notes “table service” or “reserved seating,” assume everyone shares the space. If you prefer a guaranteed table, come right when it opens and ask if any can be held.

What are the age restrictions at Kings Ohakune?

In the evenings, Kings serves alcohol so by law it is 18+ inside after 6pm. Children are only allowed if accompanied by an adult, and the venues operates a child policy on family-friendly days. For example, the annual Beer Festival allows kids (with paying parents) before 5pm, but after 5pm it’s R18 only (www.eventfinda.co.nz). On any gigs labeled all-ages (often bright family or daytime previews), minors can attend. Always check the specific event - if you are under 18 after dark, be prepared to show ID or leave.

Does Kings Ohakune have parking?

Yes. It has a small private carpark behind the building and free street parking on Rimu Street and nearby roads. As one listing notes, there is “free parking nearby” (www.hotels.au). So guests typically park on-site or along the curb with no meter needed. In winter, some guests prefer to park in the town’s public carparks (further away) and use shuttle buses. But generally, if your car is compact to mid-size, you’ll find a spot at or right in front of Kings.

Can I get to Kings Ohakune by public transport?

Absolutely. Kings is adjacent to the Ohakune Railway Station. The Northern Explorer train from Auckland/Wellington stops at Ohakune a few times a week (e.g. Auckland trains on Monday, Thursday, Saturday; return trains on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday (www.greatjourneysnz.com)). After getting off the train, you’ll see Kings just across the tracks on Rimu St. InterCity coaches also stop at Ohakune (ask for Ohakune bus stop, usually at the i-SITE). In winter there’s a free ski bus from town to the mountain – you can use that then walk or bus back to Kings. Taxis are available on request but must be pre-booked (there’s no Uber). The town is compact, so if you are staying nearby it’s often fastest to just walk (Kings is only 500m from Ohakune’s main street).

Is Kings Ohakune wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately no. Most reviews and listings indicate that the venue is not wheelchair-accessible (www.hotels.au). There are steps in parts of the lounge and to get into the historic section upstairs. There is level entry at the bar, but the main event area has uneven floors. If accessibility is a concern, call Kings directly to discuss any workarounds. Otherwise, nearby ground-level venues (like the modern i-SITE or some nearby motels) might be easier to navigate.

What food and drink options does Kings offer?

Kings has a full-service kitchen. The menu includes pub classics (e.g. steaks, burgers, fish & chips, wings) and more upscale options (salads, pasta, seafood) made by their acclaimed chefs (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). They also run themed food nights (like steak special or wing night). The bar has local craft beers (Ruapehu Brewing on tap) and a selection of wines and spirits (www.kingsohakune.co.nz). During daytime events there are often bar snacks like sliders or platters. Most nights meals are a la carte; if you’re hungry at an event, you can usually order before the show or have bar food while you watch. A kids menu is available for little ones, and reviews specifically note that families appreciated the hot food and friendly service (www.tripadvisor.com).

Are there any bag or camera policies at Kings Ohakune?

There are no strict bag searches unless a special security event is on. Small backpacks and cameras are usually fine, especially at public events. For concerts, it’s best to bring only essentials. Photography is generally allowed (lots of people snap pics) but recording entire shows is discouraged unless you have permission from the organisers. Always be respectful and follow any instructions from staff or event organisers.

Can kids attend events at Kings, and are they catered for?

Yes, kids are allowed at daytime or family events. During the beer festival (for example), children under 16 get free entry when accompanied by an adult, from 2pm–5pm (www.eventfinda.co.nz). The venue has games like ping-pong and a kids’ menu, so families do bring children earlier in the day (www.tripadvisor.com). However, any event that goes past 5pm will typically become R18-only (as per NZ liquor laws) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). So, bring kids accordingly and have ID ready for the adults. The staff do not mind kids in early shows, but by nighttime it’s an adult crowd.

Is there Wi-Fi and mobile reception at the venue?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Kings (lodge and bar areas) (www.kingsohakune.co.nz) (www.hotels.au). Since the building is centrally located, cellular reception on all NZ carriers (Spark, Vodafone, 2degrees) is typically excellent. Altogether you can expect to send texts, make calls, and browse normally inside or on the deck, which is rare for a small mountain town pub.

What should I avoid bringing or doing at Kings Ohakune?

Avoid bringing any outside alcohol or BYO liquor – it’s a licensed venue. Also, large trolleys or carts (like you’d use for gear) may not fit inside. Check the weather: if rain is forecast, avoid bulky umbrellas (they may have to be closed or left at the door). Don’t expect to bring bikes inside without checking; there’s a bike drying room but bikes generally stay outside. Finally, do not bring illegally large speakers or fireworks – think of it as a community pub, not a festival farm.