Donegal House Kaikōura is a unique Irish-inspired hotel, restaurant, bar and event venue located just minutes from Kaikōura township. At Donegal House Kaikōura, guests can enjoy hearty Irish meals, comfortable accommodation and a welcoming atmosphere all in one location.
New owners Kate Lawson and James Boyd welcome you to experience the revitalised venue — where warm hospitality, great food and genuine Kiwi–Irish charm come together.
Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, dinner, planning a wedding, booking conference facilities, or looking for affordable Kaikōura accommodation, Donegal House has something for everyone.
Restaurant & Bar – Eat, Drink & Enjoy
Open 7 days a week, Donegal House serves:
- Lunch & Dinner: 11:30am – 8:30pm
- Drinks & Snacks: 11:30am – Late
Our menu features traditional Irish pub fare alongside modern favourites, created using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Enjoy indoor dining or relax on the sunny outdoor deck — perfect for summer lunches and evening meals.
The Irish Bar
The fully stocked bar includes:
- Donegal Stout on tap
- NZ and international wines
- Beer, spirits & non-alcoholic drinks
- Tea & coffee
- Seasonal cocktails
Gather your friends, share a meal, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of this iconic Kaikōura establishment.
Group Bookings, Weddings & Events in Kaikōura
Planning a group stay, wedding, conference or special event in Kaikōura?
Donegal House Kaikōura offers a unique all-in-one venue with accommodation, catering, bar facilities and private event spaces.
Ideal For:
- Wedding receptions
- Birthday celebrations
- Family reunions
- Corporate retreats
- Business conferences
- Tour groups
- Club & organisation gatherings
With 25 guest rooms, a fully licensed Irish bar, on-site restaurant and the private Irish Stone Cottage venue (seating up to 120 guests), Donegal House makes organising your event simple and stress-free.
What’s Included:
- Private venue hire options
- In-house catering (set menus, buffet & finger food options)
- AV equipment (microphones and sound system)
- Free WiFi
- Accommodation packages for guests
- Campervan & caravan sites available
- Peaceful garden setting just outside town
The team works closely with organisers to customise menu options and venue layouts to suit your budget and numbers.
📞 Phone 03 319 5083 to discuss your group booking in Kaikōura.
The Irish Stone Cottage Venue
The beautifully crafted Irish Stone Cottage is a completely self-contained private venue featuring:
- Seating for up to 120 guests
- Macrocarpa boardroom tables
- Stage area & sound system
- Wireless internet
- Toilets & full facilities
This distinctive space is available for setup from 3pm the day prior (subject to availability). Venue hire rates include equipment — contact the team for tailored packages.
📞 Phone: 03 319 5083
Accommodation in Kaikōura
With 25 guest rooms, Donegal House offers affordable and comfortable Kaikōura accommodation in peaceful garden surroundings.
Room Options:
- Small Studio Room
- Queen Room (South Facing)
- Queen Room (Mountain & Garden Views)
- Deluxe Queen Room
- Twin Room
- Family Room
Facilities:
- Private ensuite bathrooms
- On-site restaurant & bar
- Conference facilities
- Disabled access rooms
- WiFi
- Children’s play area
- Wheelchair access
- Non-smoking rooms
Rollaway beds available on request.
Please note: Breakfast is available for group bookings only.
Ready to stay, dine or host your next event in Kaikōura?
Book your accommodation, reserve a table or enquire about weddings and conferences at Donegal House Kaikōura today.
📞 Call 03 319 5083 or send an enquiry now.
Campervan & Caravan Park – Kaikōura NZ
Looking for a low-cost campervan park in Kaikōura? Donegal House offers powered and non-powered sites for self-contained campervans and caravans only.
Rates:
- Powered Sites: $30 per night
- Non-Powered Sites: $20 per night
Facilities:
- Showers ($4 charge)
- Water supply
- Restaurant & bar with large open fire
- Pet Friendly (well-behaved dogs welcome in the campervan & caravan park on leash. Not permitted in guest rooms or restaurant areas).
A convenient and affordable alternative for motorhome travellers exploring the Alpine Pacific Touring Route.
Explore Kaikōura
Kaikōura is located in North Canterbury, approximately:
- 2.5 hours from Christchurch
- 2 hours from Picton
Popular local attractions include:
- Whale watching
- Dolphin & albatross encounters
- Kayak tours
- Scenic flights
- Fishing charters
- Hiking & cycling trails
- Lavendar Farm
Donegal House is ideally positioned to explore the region while enjoying a peaceful stay just outside the main town centre.
Why Stay or Visit Donegal House Kaikōura?
- Irish-inspired hospitality
- Restaurant, bar & accommodation in one location
- Unique private stone cottage venue
- Campervan & caravan park facilities
- Wedding & conference venue
- Open 7 days
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Donegal House Kaikōura – A Venue with a Difference.
