About Papa Mo's
Papa Mo’s is a large two‐storey restaurant/bar and live music venue in Papamoa’s Golden Sands area. Opened by local entrepreneur Luke van Veen (who first launched Papa Mo’s in Papamoa in 2015 (www.nzherald.co.nz )), the Golden Sands location became a community hub and recently celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2023 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). It’s widely described as Papamoa’s “home of serious fun” (www.unomagazine.co.nz ) – a casual gastropub-style venue with sports-bar elements, several dining areas and even gaming machines. The interior was designed with a trendy “beachy industrial” look (exposed concrete floors, steel shelving and brick-effect walls) (www.firstprinciplesarchitects.com ), and features colourful murals, wood accents and open spaces throughout. Owner interviews note a 64-seat indoor dining room plus outdoor garden bars (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ). Upstairs you’ll find a light-filled “Horizon Bar” with ocean views, while downstairs includes a sports-themed “Neptune’s Bar” for watching games. The vibe is decidedly local – their website says the focus is on “good quality food and drinks…with a focus on local produce]” and views of the sea ([www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ). In short, Papa Mo’s is a family‐oriented pub/restaurant by day and a lively music & party venue by night, anchoring the new Excelsa Centre development as a signature spot in Papamoa East (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ) (www.unomagazine.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Papa Mo’s programs a mix of live entertainment and social nights nearly every week. Regulars can expect live bands or solo acts on Friday and Sunday evenings – UNO Magazine notes “live music on Fridays and Sundays, quiz nights and other regular events” (www.unomagazine.co.nz ). Midweek may feature pub quizzes or themed dinner nights. In recent years the venue has also hosted large dance and club parties: for example in 2025 they ran an “Old School R&B” themed party and a “Black & Gold” dance night complete with multiple DJs and MCs (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). These big events often have cover charges (typically around NZ$20–30) and can run for several hours with DJs spinning hip-hop, house, R&B and more. Papa Mo’s also does charity events and special parties – for example, in January 2020 owner Luke van Veen staged a Aussie Bushfire “Relief Keg” event and donated 100% of proceeds to the NSW Rural Fire Service (sunlive.co.nz ). Every September they throw a big anniversary party (their 5th birthday in Sept 2023 had live music, prize draws and free snacks (www.eventfinda.co.nz )). In short, you’ll find everything from casual drink and dinner nights to concert-style events – just check the local listings and Papa Mo’s announcements for the latest schedule.
Tickets and Booking
Booking and ticketing varies by event. For most casual nights (including dinners, quiz nights or free live music) no ticket is needed and entry is free. Larger concerts, dance parties or special functions usually require tickets. These tickets are typically sold in advance through Papa Mo’s official channels (their website and social media) and through affiliated ticketing sites – watch for announcements on their site or Facebook page. Popular events often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. For example, recent club nights had General Admission tickets listed around NZ$25 each (www.ticketfairy.com ) (often with optional drink package add-ons). If an event isn’t fully sold out, tickets may be available at the door as well. Generally, expect ticket prices in the range of about $20–35 for major events, and bring cash or card as needed. Papa Mo’s does not operate a standard box office on site, so online presale or at-door purchase (depending on the event) are the usual methods.
Seating and Layout
Papa Mo’s is spread over two floors plus an outdoor balcony. The ground floor has an interior dining area and bar, plus an outdoor patio. Upstairs (the “Horizon Bar”) is a large open space with a raised seating level and an outside deck. This upstairs area offers **ocean views** – one guest noted choosing seats on the outside balcony “for the sea view” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Owners even highlight the upstairs “Horizon Bar” for its “beautiful ocean views” (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ). In total, the indoor dining room seats roughly 64 people (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ), and there is additional sofa/lounge seating around the bar areas. The ground floor serves as a more relaxed dining space (with TVs for sports) while upstairs is lively space for music and parties. For best views in a concert or DJ night, standing areas upstairs close to the balcony give a great vantage, or you can sit at the long tables on the balcony. Downstairs tables near the stage or video screens are good for a clear line of sight. Acoustics are quite raw (concrete floors and high ceilings), so expect a bit of echo or vibration during loud music – standing a little back or on the patio can help moderate the sound. One review commented on “huge space with views from upstairs, plus outside seating” and praised the attentive staff (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Note also that around the edges of the floor there are multiple TV screens (sports bar style) for games viewing. In summary: lock in an upstairs balcony seat for scenery, head downstairs bar-side for sports or table service, and avoid the very back of the room if you need a quiet corner away from the DJ or band.
Getting There and Parking
Papa Mo’s is located at the Excelsa Centre, 4 Golden Sands Drive, Pāpāmoa Beach, Papamoa 3118 (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ) (newsbeat.tauranga.govt.nz ). It’s on the corner of Golden Sands Drive and Papamoa Beach Road, just off State Highway 2 in Papamoa East. If you’re driving, GPS to “4 Golden Sands Drive” works well. Free off-street parking is available on site right outside Papa Mo’s (the Excelsa Centre provides a shared car park for all its stores) (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The parking lot is generally free and has ample spaces on weekdays, though it can fill up on busy weekend nights or during special events. For public transport, several Baybus routes run along Papamoa Beach Road near Golden Sands Drive (check local Baybus schedules for the 21/22 Papamoa routes). The Excelsa Centre’s location is described as “well-connected with… bus routes” (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ), so you can catch a Tauranga-area bus to Papamoa Beach Road and walk a couple minutes. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are easy – use the Golden Sands Drive entrance. If you’re coming on foot or by bike, a new walkway and bike path connect the Golden Sands plaza to Papamoa Beach Road, and there are bike racks at the front. The venue sits just “metres from the golden shores of Pāpāmoa Beach” (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ), so it’s only a 5–10 minute walk from the beach or nearby beachfront cafés (a handy pre-show stroll!). In summary, the address is 4 Golden Sands Drive, and you can arrive by car (free parking), bus, bike or on foot via the Papamoa Beach Road corridor.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, Papa Mo’s has a single main entrance where staff check patrons in. After dark or for ticketed shows, expect ID checks at the door (bring photo ID if you’ll be drinking). The atmosphere inside is lively and casual: wood-and-steel décor, colorful lighting and easygoing staff. Within a few steps of the door there’s a coat rack/benches for bags, but no formal cloakroom or lockers. The ground floor has a long bar where you can order drinks or bar food, and servers will take orders at tables. During events, they may use wristbands or hand stamps for re-entry. For security, random bag checks are possible on busy nights, but it’s usually a friendly pub environment (no banned photo gear, outside alcohol or weapons permitted). Photography is generally allowed for personal use (plenty of guests take phone selfies), but respect any artist no-photo rules on specific acts. The lighting in the main downstairs area is moderate – bright enough to read the menu, but dimmer on event nights. If you prefer fresh air, note that the upstairs opens onto a balcony deck in good weather. \n
The food menu is full pub-style fare, and tables can stay open through the evening. Expect classics like burgers, fish ’n’ chips, lamb shanks, pastas and tacos (www.unomagazine.co.nz ). The venue proudly offers gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options; indeed their functions menu highlights “gluten-free and vegan options” for events (www.papamos.co.nz ). A children’s menu is not advertised, so families often let kids share standard meals or get smaller items. (There *is* a special kids’ treat stand called “Little Mo’s” for ice cream (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ).) The kitchen hours run generally until last calls (often 10–11pm), so you can dine late. \n
Beverages cover a full bar selection – local craft beers, international lagers, wine, spirits and creative cocktails. Staff frequently offer drink specials and happy-hour deals on beer/cider. Soft drinks, juices and non-alcoholic cocktails are also served. One reviewer noted “attentive staff and friendly service” in the lounge (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) – staff usually come around often to refill drinks or take dessert orders. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), so you can post your photos or check event details on the spot. Restrooms (both male and female) are on the ground floor; at least one is wheelchair-accessible. In short, expect a friendly, relaxed pub vibe indoors with full table service for food and drinks. The decor and music will feel like a sports bar or casual lounge during the day, and a loud club/venue at night – either way, the staff keep the mood fun and easygoing.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants: The Golden Sands precinct has several eateries a short walk from Papa Mo’s. Ali Baba’s House (Turkish cuisine) and Grill & Green (Mediterranean fare, including vegetarian options) are on site (www.unomagazine.co.nz ). Hello Sushi (fresh sushi rolls and bento) is also in the complex (www.unomagazine.co.nz ). For a quick café snack or brunch, Henry & Ted’s (just across Golden Sands Drive) is famed for its chill atmosphere, specialty coffees and sweet treats (www.unomagazine.co.nz ).Bars and Cafes: If you want more drinks after Papa Mo’s, Henry & Ted’s doubles as an evening bar with craft beers. For coffee or breakfast, Papamoa Beach Road has spots like Pete’s Place; and for a pub meal the neighbouring Golden Sands Tavern is also open.Lodging: There are several places to stay nearby. Papamoa Beach Resort (a motel with beach views) is only a few minutes up Golden Sands Drive, and the Tasman Holiday Park on Papamoa Beach Road offers cabins and campsites right on the sand. Numerous Airbnb/vacation homes line Papamoa Beach Road too, within walking distance.Entertainment: The Excelsa Centre complex continues with a movie cinema next door (Electric Cinema) – a perfect pre- or post-show activity. For shopping or errands, there’s a Countdown supermarket and other shops in the plaza, so you can easily grab snacks or supplies nearby.Transportation: Aside from buses (as noted above) and driving, the Golden Sands area is walkable. Papa Mo’s is within a 5–10 minute stroll from Pāpāmoa Beach and nearby residential streets, and there are sidewalks and bike lanes on Papamoa Beach Road.
What Makes This Venue Special
Papa Mo’s stands out in Papamoa for its combination of design, atmosphere and community role. The innovative industrial-chic décor (winner of a local architecture award) gives it an edgy look – exposed beams, polished concrete floors and bright murals create a fun “coastal loft” feel (www.firstprinciplesarchitects.com ). The multi-room layout is unique: owners talk about separate areas like the horizon-view upstairs lounge, a sports-focused bar room (“Neptune’s Bar” with TV screens), and even a children’s “Little Mo’s” ice-cream window (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ). In other words, it’s more than just one main room – it has themed bars, outdoor balconies and gaming areas, all under one roof. This complexity keeps people coming back. \n
Locally, Papa Mo’s has become an integral part of Papamoa culture. The founders describe it as being “built to be part of a growing community” (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ). It’s very much a locals’ hangout where young families, tradespeople and seniors mingle – and it actively supports the community. Beyond charity fundraisers (like donating all proceeds of a beer event to bushfire relief (sunlive.co.nz )), it hosts birthday parties, wedding after-parties and league-team dinners. The owners have even earned nods in the press for epitomizing “serious fun” – one magazine calls Papa Mo’s a “Pāpāmoa institution” where “there’s always something happening” (www.unomagazine.co.nz ). \n
In short, Papa Mo’s is special because it feels like the town’s own bar. It offers big-screen sports, good pub grub made with local produce, and nightly entertainment in one colorful venue. Its seaside backdrop and friendly vibe mean you might see a surfboard parked outside one night, a 4-year-old with their parents the next. With its family-friendly touches, varied music lineup and “everything under one roof” atmosphere, Papa Mo’s has a personality and local love that set it apart from a typical chain bar.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** Papa Mo’s is wheelchair-friendly at least on the ground floor, and TripAdvisor confirms it is “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The entrances and restrooms comply with accessibility standards. Staff are known to be accommodating if you need extra help. \n
**What to Bring:** Always carry photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) if you plan to drink. Wear comfortable casual clothes; weekends can get packed, so practical shoes are wise if you’ll stand. Since the upstairs balcony is open-air, you may want a light jacket on cooler evenings. If you’re sensitive to noise, earplugs can help during loud live shows. Bring cash if you plan to play the gambling machines or tip (though cards are accepted for drinks). \n
**What *Not* to Bring:** No outside alcohol or large coolers are allowed (pursuant to licensing laws). Open containers from other venues should be finished before entering. Bag checks may happen on busy nights, so only bring essentials. Photography is fine for personal use, but quickly check with performers for any photo restrictions. \n
**Dining and Timing:** Papa Mo’s serves food all day from opening (11am) and usually until closing (bar service to 1am). If you arrive for dinner or a quieter drink, before 5pm is less crowded. After 8pm especially on weekends, it fills up with event-goers and party crowds. For a table, you can call ahead to reserve in the dining room (the restaurant has a reservation line on its website). If you want the best seats for sunset views, head upstairs about 15 minutes before dusk. \n
**Age and Dress:** Like all NZ bars, Papa Mo’s enforces an 18+ rule for serving alcohol. Minors may enter with parents until around 10pm, but check any advertised event age limits first. Dress is very casual – jeans and tees are fine. Some theme nights may encourage a costume or color (for example, guests might wear all white for a “White Party” or black-and-gold for certain events), but for most evenings just come as you are. \n
**Weather:** If rain is forecast, note that the upstairs balcony will close, but there is ample indoor space. Sun cream and hats for daytime visits (e.g. family lunch) can be handy, as the Golden Sands sun can be strong. \n
**Connectivity:** Free Wi-Fi is provided for patrons (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), so tethering or light browsing is supported. Cell service in Papamoa is generally good (4G LTE coverage). \n
**Insider Tip:** Locals say the weekday afternoons are surprisingly quiet and a great time to play the pokies or catch up on work. Also, join Papa Mo’s loyalty club (the “Serious Fun Club”) if you can – it earns points and special deals on food and events (check in about 2 weeks after signing up on their site).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact address of Papa Mo's Papamoa?
Papa Mo’s is located in the Excelsa Centre at 4 Golden Sands Drive, Pāpāmoa Beach, Papamoa 3118 . It’s on the corner of Golden Sands Drive and Papamoa Beach Road (State Highway 2) in the Golden Sands shopping precinct. (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ) (newsbeat.tauranga.govt.nz ). Parking and bus stops are nearby, as noted above.
How many people can Papa Mo’s accommodate?
Papa Mo’s is a mid-sized pub/venue. The indoor dining room seats about 64 people (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ), plus there is seating on two floors and outdoor areas. In total, including the lounge bars and outside decks, the venue can hold roughly 150–200 patrons comfortably. (For big events, count on standing room filling up fast.)
Are Papa Mo's tickets available at the door?
It depends on the event. For free nights (like casual quiz nights or some live postings) no ticket is needed. For ticketed concerts or parties, you can often buy at the door if there are unsold spots. However, popular shows (e.g. large DJ nights) often sell out quickly. The safest bet is to purchase advance tickets online through Papa Mo’s official channels. If you do arrive without a ticket, check at the bar or kitchen if they have any remaining for sale.
What are typical ticket prices for Papa Mo's events?
Most special events (such as DJ parties or big bands) have General Admission in the range of about $20–$30 NZD . For example, a recent R&B-themed party was $25 GA (www.ticketfairy.com ), and larger multi‐DJ events often fall into this range as well. Drinks packages or VIP upgrades (if offered) are extra. In contrast, many weekly nights and regular live-music sessions are free entry or just involve paying for your drinks at the venue.
How do I buy tickets to Papa Mo’s events?
Papa Mo’s ticketed events are usually promoted on their official website and social media. Look for links or posts directing you to purchase tickets via the venue’s online store or event pages. You can also sometimes buy tickets at the door if the event isn’t sold out (cash or EFTPOS accepted there). For large sold‐out events, tickets often *must* be bought in advance with no door sales. Planning ahead is best – keep an eye on Papa Mo’s announcements for ticket release dates.
Is Papa Mo’s family-friendly / are kids allowed?
Yes, Papa Mo’s is family-friendly for daytime and early-evening hours. Children (accompanied by an adult) are welcome in the restaurant seating until about 9–10pm. The venue even includes a kids’ mini ice-cream stand called “Little Mo’s” for treats (www.top50gastropubs.co.nz ). Note that after hours or for 18+ events, parental discretion applies and minors may not be allowed. (There’s no formal kids’ menu, so children usually share from the regular menu or have simpler bites.)
Is Papa Mo’s wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the ground floor of Papa Mo’s is wheelchair accessible. The entrance is step-free and there are accessible restrooms on the main level. Passport or driver’s licence may be requested for any guests ordering drinks. If you need special assistance or want to reserve an accessible spot, it’s best to call ahead and the staff can help accommodate you.
Does Papa Mo’s have free parking on-site?
Yes. Papa Mo’s offers free off-street parking for guests. The Excelsa Centre lot has many spaces right outside the venue (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). You won’t be charged for parking. However, if there’s a big event or show happening, arrive early to grab a spot, as the lot can fill up on peak nights.
What are the opening hours of Papa Mo’s?
According to the venue’s listing, Papa Mo’s generally opens at 11 am daily and closes late. Weekday hours are ≈11 am–11 pm, with Fridays and Saturdays often extending to about 11:30 pm (www.excelsa-centre.co.nz ). (Legally they have a liquor licence allowing sales until 1 am except outdoor areas.) Kitchen service typically aligns with those hours, so you can plan a late dinner or room service until closing on most nights.
What kind of food and drink does Papa Mo’s serve?
Papa Mo’s menu is full of pub and casual dining favorites. You’ll find burgers, fish & chips, tacos, salads, steaks and hearty mains (UNO magazine specifically cites burgers, tacos, lamb shanks and the like (www.unomagazine.co.nz )). They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options (www.papamos.co.nz ), so most diets are covered. The bar pours local craft beers, international beers and ciders, plus wine, cocktails and spirits. Milkshakes and ice cream are available for kids at “Little Mo’s” too. Pricing is mid-range pub fare – expect main dishes roughly $20–30 NZD, cocktails $15–18, and beers in the $8–12 range.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into Papa Mo’s?
No, outside food or alcohol is not allowed. Papa Mo’s operates under a full liquor licence, so only sales from their bar are permitted on-site. (You can bring water or sealed non-alcoholic drinks, and there are drinking fountains.) All meals and drinks should be purchased from Papa Mo’s kitchen or bar. This is standard for Kiwi pubs – anyone caught with outside alcohol may be refused entry.
Does Papa Mo’s allow pets or dogs inside?
Generally no. Like most NZ pubs, Papa Mo’s does not allow pet dogs inside the dining/bar areas (except for guide dogs). The bar itself is indoors only. However, outside seating areas may see dogs on leash. Note that a dog-friendly café (Henry & Ted’s) is right across the road if you need a pet-friendly spot. Papa Mo’s 5th birthday event did feature a temporary “puppy corner” outside (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), but that was a special case.
Is there an ATM or cash machine at Papa Mo’s?
No ATM is located inside Papa Mo’s itself. The nearest cash machine is in the Golden Sands shops plaza (often the supermarket or petrol station nearby). However, most transactions at Papa Mo’s can be done by EFTPOS/credit card. It’s always good to have some cash if you plan to use the pokies (gaming machines) since they may be cash-only.
Are there age restrictions for events at Papa Mo’s?
Most nightclub or concert events at Papa Mo’s are 18+ (they’ll specify the age on the event listing or ticket sale page). During normal daytime hours children are welcome with parents until around 9–10pm. If an event is all-ages, it will be clearly advertised that way. As usual under NZ law, anyone ordering alcohol must be 18+. Even with a parent, minors aren’t allowed in the pub after late-night hours (around 10 pm).
Does Papa Mo’s have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Papa Mo’s provides free Wi-Fi for customers (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). You can connect to the network using the password posted by the bar. The signal covers most of the indoor seating, though signal strength may vary on the balcony. This makes it easy to check event times, share photos or stream music between acts.
Can I reserve a table or book a private event at Papa Mo’s?
Yes. Papa Mo’s has a dedicated function and events team. They offer event packages with shared platters and set menus (they highlight that their chefs cater to all diets, including gluten-free and vegan options (www.papamos.co.nz )). To book a private group or party, you can contact them through the “FUN-CTIONS & EVENTS” section of their website for details. For small table reservations during regular hours, it’s best to call ahead (especially on weekends) to hold a spot, as walk-ins are first-come.
What is Papa Mo's dress code?
Papa Mo’s does not enforce a formal dress code. Casual attire (jeans, shorts, T-shirts) is perfectly fine. For theme nights (e.g. a “Black & Gold” or “White Party”), guests often dress to match the theme, but this is encouraged rather than required. For busy evening events, most people wear smart-casual or club attire with comfortable shoes. The pub environment is relaxed, so just wear what you’d feel comfortable dancing and mingling in.
