2 Best Bars in North Island's West Coast, New Zealand

Located down a short, plant-lined lane off the arts precinct of Drew Street, a red door marks the entrance of this Whanganui bar. Open the door, and you'll be met by a large lounge setting that features pinball machines, long tables, lounge areas, leaners, a library, and a couple of stages which host everything from poetry sessions to live bands and DJs. Porridge is also a hub for a collection of other smaller businesses; Easy Tiger serves burgers from a window into the bar, and a separate cocktail bar and ice cream parlor open into Porridge's courtyard.

A two-tone art deco building that was once a motor repairs workshop and is now home to a microbrewery and tap room. Enjoy beers brewed onsite while admiring the brewing vessels lined up along one wall, where your beverage was created. Tasting paddles are available, and you can even ask for beer pairing suggestions to go along with each dish on the menu of shared plates and burgers. Shining Peak Brewing is also dedicated to supporting the local community; 5% of revenue from beer sales is donated to local Taranaki organizations, supporting the brewery's stated mission of "Drink beer, do good."