Governors Bay Hotel

The Governors Bay Hotel is one of New Zealand's oldest hotels, in continuous operation since its establishment in 1870. On 4th of September 2010 and again, on 22nd of February 2011, Christchurch and Canterbury endured two devastating earthquakes. Fortunately, the hotel was spared any structural damage and remains open. However, it will be undergoing some renovation work throughout the Autumn and Winter 2011.

For much of its existence, the hotel was known as The Ocean View Family Hotel, however, rather than its ocean outlook, it is the commanding views of Lyttelton harbour that it is well known for today. Around 1980 to 1995 it was briefly known as The Smugglers Arms but is today, central in name to the community which surrounds it.

The Hotel enjoys a fine reputation for its gastro-pub style fare, friendly service and extensive selection of local wines and beers. Fantastic views await you out to Quail Island and Lyttelton Harbour from the garden bar, restaurant, verandah and the guest rooms of the Governors Bay Hotel. There are great walks to be had along the shoreline, cycling trips, world famous private gardens and many water based activities are within minutes of the hotel.

The hotel is only 20 minutes by car from Cathedral Square, Christchurch, via Dyers Pass Road, or 30 minutes via the Lyttelton Road Tunnel. We are open seven days a week, 363 days from 10.30am for coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.

We can cater for a wide variety of functions including dinner parties, wedding receptions, office parties, wakes, corporate planning meetings, and birthday parties. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements.

The Governors Bay Hotel is independently owned by Jeremy Dyer and Clare Neville-Dyer.