As someone who comes into the CBD every day for work I always quite enjoy staying after work for some great food or a drink or two in one of the many options the city has to offer. It’s not something I do all that often due to other commitments but when I do I’ve not had a bad time or a bad beer… such a great range of choices to be had if you like a craft beer.

Event Cinemas on Elizabeth Street have special screening nights with short films picked up at film festivals – these could be anything from Ocean films, running, or adventure based films. A really interesting mix but makes for a great night of viewing.   Given I’m already in the city and the films start around 7ish there seems little point in heading back to Papamoa only to turn round and come back in again.

This night in question I met a group of friends for a couple of social beers at the at the Barrel Room on Wharf street to get the last of the summer sun. If you love a wide range of crafty beers then this is a great pitstop to try something new or one of your favourites.

Next was over to the Cornerstone for a round of darts. They’ve got a couple of boards set up with virtual games that create some great competition and fun with a small group.  Best to book ahead via their website to make sure you can get a time slot to play.

All that throwing of darts and time on your feet is a great way to work up an appetite so with an hour or so before the films start we headed up to one of my favourite hidden gems in the city – Chidori Japanese Noodle Restaurant.  You’ll find it on Devonport road opposite the new Farmers building.  The give-away that its good is that it is always busy.. always at lunch time and always at dinner. 

Expect a friendly welcome and some delicious, authentic fresh food with bags of flavour. They usually have some great specials on the menu as well.

From there it’s just a short stroll across the road to the cinema to settle in for a couple of hours of great short films.