Ministry of Works

Ministry of Works is the social go-to for both Twizel residents and visitors alike. A modern pub and eatery right in the centre of town, Ministry of Works functions as a free house and offers an ever-changing variety of craft beers on tap (including those from Twizel-born Burkes Brewing Co.), plus an extensive wine list celebrating mostly New Zealand wines. Like any self-respecting bar, Ministry of Works also sports a reasonable cocktail list and a comprehensive range of spirits.

The pub was founded in 2015 by a self-acclaimed hydro-kid, local family man Troy Sheridan whose own family moved to Twizel for work when he was a young child, and is now owned and operated by another local family man, Burkes Brewing Co. owner Sebastian Burke. Named with a nod to the town’s history, there are plenty of construction work mementoes dotted around, including helmets and work jackets hanging off steel framing that surrounds the ceiling, plus the odd miniature construction vehicle. Inspiration for the retro interiors has also been drawn from the days when Twizel first boomed with workers and permanent inhabitants in the 1960s.

Ministry of  Works boasts a menu filled with good, honest pub food such as chicken wings and burgers and steak.  There are plenty of options for vegetarians as well, including a veggie burger and pizza. 

Regular live music gigs are hosted whenever possible and the pub functions as a local hang out most evenings. The relaxed atmosphere with plenty of room for various groups indoors and out, makes it an easy spot to grab a beer or two, and a meal. Visiting this pub is a true Twizel experience.