The traditional pub is a staple in New Zealand - well known for its warm, welcoming environment, friendly staff, good grub and of course, perfectly poured beer.
This year's VJ Distributors' Outstanding Traditional Pub finalists for the Hawke's Bay Hospitality Awards have found a formula that works for them.
Rose & Shamrock
Village Inn, in Havelock North, built the business on offering a little something for everyone.
"It's about having a friendly atmosphere, good hearty food and a great beverage selection," duty manager Grant Brunstill said.
"All of those things are really important - we have 24 beers on tap, an extensive menu and a fire in winter.
"We have a lot of regulars, so we must be doing something right."
Napier's oldest pub, the Westshore Beach Inn, is steeped in tradition and takes pride in continuing that legacy today.
"We have been operating since 1926 - that predates the earthquake and our licence dates back to the 1860s," co-owner Jeremy Bayliss said.
"Some bars are not actually traditional, they are franchised clip-ons - we are authentic."
Not only do they place importance on staying true to the inn's heritage, Mr Bayliss and his wife Carol maintain high standards.
"It should be friendly, clean, good value for money and consistent - a home away from home."
For Puketapu Hotel owner Mary Danielson it is country character that sets the hotel apart from the rest.
"People will drive from town for the beautiful scenery, old-fashioned service and great food."
The hotel has a good base of local regulars, as well as visitors from out of town and overseas tourists.
"We get a good mix. I think many of the tourists are attracted by the familiarity of the place, it's a bit like an old English bar."
When it comes to pubs with heart and character, you can't go past the Union Hotel in Ahuriri.
Owner Michelle Hutchinson said it was the "family atmosphere" that was their strongest tradition, and that's the way they want to keep it.
"In my eyes, a good traditional pub is a local where people can drop in for a drink every day before dinner. These days there are bars popping up everywhere, but you walk in there and it is often a very sterile environment. Here, we are like one big family."
