Donegal House Kaikōura – Irish Hotel, Restaurant, Bar & Event Venue

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.

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.