Iconic Kiwi Pubs – From Mangonui to Bluff, by George Lockyer, published by Bateman Books, Price $45.99. Reviewed by Tony Orman
Author George Lockyer is described on the dust jacket of the book as a “pub veteran.” He travelled the length of New Zealand to visit public houses and hotels and has put together a most interesting book. After all going fishing for a weekend, a country pub may be the best accommodation, certainly almost guaranteeing a warm welcome and hospitality at an affordable price.
Seafishing up north at Mangonui, there’s the local pub, or more upmarket the Duke of Marlborough at Russell or Dargaville’s Central Hotel. For trout anglers, there’s the Awakino hotel in Taranaki, Blacks Hotel at Ophir near some good fly fishing streams, the Tophouse hotel near Nelson Lakes and the upper Wairau River, the Kurow hotel in the upper Waitaki and several more.
George Lockyer writes in a warm, engaging style and brings to life the warm personalities of the publicans interviewed. Some are real characters which manifests itself in the style of pub. He delves into how they became publicans, their motivation and their hospitality philosophy.
The author reveals many intriguing aspects to the history of the hotels
Well worth a buy and as a reference book for that weekend away.
I just love country Kiwi pubs. Sounds like a good guide to some classic pubs.