Halswell’s reimagined gathering place: The Halswell
Spotting the huge untapped potential of a fading pub favourite means Halswell has a new luxury local.
For years, a historic and familiar landmark on the corners of Halswell and Nicholls Roads had grown tired and in desperate need of love. It sparked an idea in Christchurch businessman Max Bremner’s mind. As Christchurch’s largest, fastest growing and increasingly affluent suburb, Halswell needed a new local. The opportunity awaited one of the South Island’s biggest hospitality operators, Oxford Group, of which Max is the director.
“It was an opportunity that we didn’t want to waste,” says marketing and HR lead Millie Bremner. Oxford Group purchased the establishment from hoteliers Brian and Ina Hall in the wake of their retirement, and set out to continue its legacy.
Now, The Halswell stands proud on that same corner – unrecognisable in size and refined in appearance. Carefully considered details invite elegance and modernity with an ‘old money’ feel, from intricate patterned wallpaper to elevated fixings and finishes. Thanks to Oxford Group’s flawless execution, the space has been buzzing since its launch in mid-May.
Investing more than $5m into its revival, the refurbishment completely redefines how a classic pub can serve its community. Maintaining the iconic elements known to loyal patrons, the team reimagined how The Halswell could please all parties – an ingenious layout means family-friendly dining and classic pub activities can co-exist. A five-star hotel-like entranceway, with plentiful on-site parking splits into two masterfully crafted spaces, one for family-friendly dining and the other for a dynamic pub experience.
Whatever your idea of a good time, it’s catered to here. Three big screen televisions stretch across the wall opposite the bar – catch everything from rugby league and union to NBA, cricket and football. Find a schedule of upcoming games on The Halswell’s website so you don’t miss a moment of sports action.
Have a flutter in the dedicated TAB space, or try your luck on the gaming machines. All the activities locals know and love in a beautifully restored venue, plus perfectly poured on-tap pints of Guinness, Kilkenny, Speight’s and more.
A premium range of beverages quench your every thirst, from bottled favourites and a variety of wines and spirits to handcrafted cocktails.
Outside, a brand new and previously unutilised beer garden overlooks the fully-fenced children’s playground so parents can keep little ones in sight while enjoying a tipple or two.
Elevated pub classics materialise on the menu using the best local produce and a keen eye for detail, served by local staff. Taste bar menu classics including fried chicken and buffalo wings, best served with a pint and side of sport. Find classics including a venison hot pot or New England clam chowder when dining in, plus premium cuts of meat, burgers, pasta and pizza.
Home to retirement villages, a community of young families, and many new residents seeking respite from the city – tapping into the Halswell area was a successful move by Max and his team. “We saw what the community needed,” Millie says. Maximising value for the Halswell area, Oxford Group crafted a space that encapsulates every element of hospitality bundled into one – with accommodation renovations underway.
In an unbeatable location, Halswell’s gathering place invites more than just locals – extending an arm to all of Christchurch and beyond as a destination for dining, live sport, and celebrations of any kind. Raise a drink to milestones and memories in The Halswell’s dedicated function room, or book out the entire venue with a whopping capacity of 500.
With something for everyone, make The Halswell your new local – even if it’s not. Visit from Sunday to Thursday from 9am to 11pm, or Friday and Saturday from 9am until close, with restaurant hours subject to change.
