Pig & Whistle

The Pig & Whistle is the quintessential Rotorua pub, where warm, friendly hospitality meets generous meals and a lively atmosphere. Tucked away within a spacious garden bar that features an open fire and retractable roof, the pub’s first impressions invoke a sense of both homeliness and nostalgia. The pub offers a selection of New Zealand wines, 15 craft beers and ciders, and handcrafted spirits. On Saturday nights, live music fills the air, elevating an already lively scene. Whether you’re after a relaxed dinner or a casual drink, Pig & Whistle delivers the total pub package.

The corner building that houses Pig & Whistle has been a landmark since 1940, first serving the community as the local police station until 1969. In the decades that followed, it found new purpose as a craft market and even offices for the periodic detention service. Then, in 1993, the current chapter began when Pig & Whistle opened its doors. From those early days onwards, it has remained committed to classic pub meals and genuine Kiwi hospitality, establishing itself as one of Rotorua’s most beloved watering holes. Ample nooks and seating arrangements within mean no two experiences ever have to feel the same.

Signature dishes such as Pigtail Fries, slow-cooked brisket, the winter lamb shank and the classic New Zealand lamb burger have become crowd favourites over the years. The menu’s generous portions and carefully sourced ingredients reflect the pub’s dedication to memorable dining, while the extensive drinks list (including feature pours from local craft brewers) caters to every taste. Beyond food and drink, the inviting garden bar boasts a crackling open fire during the winter months and a retractable roof that lets the sun shine in over the warmer months.

The Pig & Whistle is woven into the fabric of the Rotorua community. Recent upgrades (like the newly re-roofed garden bar and retractable roof extension) underscore its commitment to an enjoyable dining experience for visitors and locals alike. The pub also reinvests locally, supporting school fundraisers, the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club’s First Response Unit, Rotorua Trails Trust and Tipu Waiariki’s environmental projects. Without a doubt, the Pig & Whistle continues to set the standard for Rotorua’s pub scene.