65 Lunn Avenue,
Mt Wellington
Auckland,


(09) 570 2800

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3 out of 5 stars

A few years back you’d usually need to head into the city for a good night out, but an increasing range of classier suburban pubs are popping up around town. Joining places like Garrison in Sylvia Park and Reservoir in Albany is The Flying Moa.

Situated in the light industrial no-mans land on Lunn Ave – you could probably call it either Ellerslie or Mt Wellington and get away with it – The Flying Moa is the latest place to take a spacious retro spin on the old Kiwi pub. The décor is actually pretty similar to the Mac’s Brewbars in Newmarket and Britomart – ironic really, because The Flying Moa is aligned to DB with Monteith’s, Tui, Erdinger, Heineken and Tiger all on tap.

In the silly-season build up to Christmas we take refuge on a Sunday afternoon from spending too much on presents that people may or may not want. It’s a popular escape actually, with the bar relatively busy for a weekend afternoon. Apparently Thursday and Friday nights are the most popular at The Flying Moa, and Tuesday night quiz night is seeing increasing numbers of teams.

Armed with a couple of pints of summer-friendly Radler we secure a spot on one of the sofas on the deck. The view – carparks and a Placemakers – isn’t much to behold, but it’s still a sunny spot. Inside, a few small groups are in for a long afternoon in the nooks and crannies of the interior. High ceilings mix with wooden floors and you get the idea The Flying Moa would be a top spot come a busier night. On a sunny afternoon, it’s a great option without driving into Ponsonby or the Viaduct.

Food-wise, The Flying Moa is a Stone Grill eatery, meaning you get your own chance to overcook your steak, scallops or prawns. Also on the menu is the usual array of ribs, burgers and pasta. We make a note to return for the Hot Bird special on a Thursday night, teaming a Jamaican Chicken Curry and a pint for $17.

The Flying Moa’s a cool and classy addition to Auckland’s pub scene. No pokies, lots of big screens for when the Blues’ and Warriors’ seasons roll around, and definitely a good night out for larger groups.