Your Guide to the Best Sports Bars & Pubs in the North Island
Monday 13 October, 2025
There’s nothing quite like watching the game surrounded by mates, a cold drink in hand, and the room riding every high and low together. When you can’t make it to the match, your local sports pub is the next best thing (with even better views in our opinion). Big screens, epic energy, and that unmistakable buzz of live sport.
Across Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga & Wellington, Star Group venues bring you the action from all the biggest sports, from the ABs and NRL to UFC, cricket, netball and more. Whatever team you back, there’s a screen, a barstool, and a jug waiting for you.
Auckland’s got no shortage of places to catch every try, goal, or knockout. Whether you’re after a buzzing central city bar or your favourite local with the perfect pint pour, here’s where to head on game day:
Top picks for Auckland sports fans:
The Postman’s Leg (Glenfield) – Big screens, cold beers, and a beer garden for kicking back in the sun pre game.
The Zookeeper’s Son (Royal Oak) – A proper local with an unbeatable crowd for every match, from NRL to UFC Sunday’s.
Empire Tavern (Auckland CBD)- Your go-to in the heart of the city for live sport, cold drinks, and top-notch times watching all the big matches.
Basalt (Howick) – East Auckland’s go-to for casual bites, big screens, and game-day atmosphere.
Where to Watch Live Sport in Wellington
Down in the capital, the love for live sport runs deep — and so does the pint game. From footy finals to title fights, these Wellington venues bring the atmosphere every time.
Top picks for Wellington sports fans:
Southern Cross (Te Aro) – A Wellington institution with plenty of space, big screens, a garden bar and an atmosphere that always turns up for game day.
Shed 22 (Wellington Waterfront) – With unbeatable harbour views, this is the place to park up with a pint, whether you’re after the rugby or a summer of cricket.
The Borough (Tawa) – Your local northern suburb go-to for cold drinks, hearty food, and live sport done right. A laid-back spot where the locals gather and the cheers get loud.
Where to Watch Live Sport in Hamilton & Mount Maunganui
When it comes to passion for the game, Hamilton & Mount Maunganui never disappoints. Whether it’s a weekend rugby test or a weekday cricket clash,these locals know how to bring the noise.
Top picks for Hamilton & Mount Maunganui sports fans:
The Wayward Pigeon (Rototuna) – A Hamilton local favourite with plenty of screens, taps, and good vibes.
The Roaming Giant (Hamilton Central) – Across the road from Claudeland’s event centre, the perfect stop for pre & post game, or stay to catch the action in the garden bar.
Latitude 37 (Mount Maunganui) – A coastal crowd pleaser that brings the beach vibes and the big screens together.
Make it a game to remember.
From the AB’s and NRL to UFC, cricket, netball and more. If it’s live, we’re showing it. Across our 50+ pubs, bars, and restaurants, you’ll never have to miss a minute.So grab your mates, order a round, and settle in for the action.
Hosting a team catch-up or want the best seat for the final? Make sure to book in advance in so you lock in your table before kick-off.
Ready to make this month one to remember?
Book a table, grab your crew, and we’ll see you at a Star Group venue near you.
Looking for the best places to host your next event, earn rewards, or find the perfect gift? At Star Group’s 50+ bars, pubs and restaurants, across Aotearoa’s North Island there’s always something happening. From private event hosting and corporate functions to our Star Social rewards program and easy-to-use gift cards, we’ve got your social calendar covered.
Plan Your Next Event or Function
From milestone birthdays to casual get-togethers and corporate events, Star Group venues have spaces and packages for every occasion. With 50+ bars, pubs, and restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui, our free event planners will help you host your next event with ease. Learn more
Shop Star Group Gift Cards
Whether it’s a birthday, a thank you, or just because, a Star Group gift card is always a good idea. Redeemable at 50+ bars, pubs and restaurants across the North Island, it can be spent on whatever they’re into - a night out in Auckland, craft beers in the Mount, or a long lunch by the Wellington waterfront. Buy a gift card
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Join Star Social, Star Group’s loyalty programme that gives you $1 back for every $10 you spend at any of Star Group’s 50+ bars, pubs and restaurants. You’ll unlock exclusive member offers, event invites, seasonal promotions, and more. Signing up is free and only takes a minute. Learn more
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Access exclusive deals and promotions at over 50 restaurants, bars and pubs across Aotearoa.
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