What it is: In New Zealand’s capital city, this local favorite feels hidden to the visitors who venture a block off busier downtown streets to find its alleyway niche. Sean Golding opened his Free Dive in 2013 to pay homage to North American dive bars. Walking in, Star Wars fans will feel right at home amid various starships and action figures decking the walls and ceiling—plus multicolored lights, skis over the bar, bucket lamps, a bit of taxidermy, mismatched furniture, and a striking mural that proclaims, “beer is love.”
Why it’s great: That love—besides friendly, chatty bar service—comes in the form of seven rotating taps plus more cans and bottles full of New Zealand craft, from locals Garage Project and Parrot Dog to Christchurch’s Beer Baroness down south to the highly regarded McLeod’s of Waipu up north. Then there are the tasty pies from neighboring Pizza Pomodoro, with a surprising variety that runs from classic Margherita to the chile-and-anchovy-laden Inferno. It’s also dog-friendly, and there’s outdoor seating when the weather rewards it.
Hours: noon to 11 p.m., daily
Address: 5G, 14 Leeds St, Te Aro, Wellington
Web: goldingsfreedive.co.nz
IG: @goldingsfd
