Tai Tapu Hotel - The Tap

At the foot of the Port Hills, Tai Tapu Hotel - “The Tap” - pairs 1860s heritage with easy country warmth. Once a stagecoach inn, this beloved spot just outside Christchurch now welcomes families and friends to linger in its expansive outdoor grounds, featuring a playground and bouncy castles.

Inside and out, the setting balances character with a modern, elegant polish, framed by postcard landscapes that make gatherings feel a little more special. Live music and weddings find a natural home here.

On the plate, it's classic pub comfort with globe-trotting accents. Starters include crispy chicken karaage with Kewpie mayonnaise and a lick of Korean barbecue, or lemon pepper calamari brightened with a fresh wedge.

Following these, slow-braised richness comes through in the Thai beef cheek curry over creamy mash, while a tender lamb shank and green beans nod to timeless favourites.

For lighter options, selections run to a chicken salad dressed with dukkah and chipotle aioli, or a Moroccan lamb salad with mint yoghurt dressing. Pizzas range from a clean-cut Margherita to the unapologetically bold smokey barbecue meatlovers, alongside casual bar snacks like house-made vegetarian croquettes and jalapeño and corn bites.

To finish, desserts lean nostalgic, from warm chocolate mud cake to sticky date pudding.

Plan an afternoon in the garden or a relaxed dinner with the crew, and let The Tap do what it does best. Book in, settle back, and tap into good times!