Filling the role of ‘trusty neighbourhood watering hole’ but doing so in a unique and design-forward way, Material Creative has conceived the interior which is distinguished by a stylised brick wall which subtly reads ‘Morningside’. Fusing an industrial aesthetic with some colourful and some homely touches (like the sofas and lounge seats that line the upper level) the tavern puts a new-age spin on what was formerly a carpet manufacturing facility. Artist Hayley Brown has also been pivotal to conceptualising the bar, enshrining the story of Morningside’s founding father, Allan Kerr Taylor, in the mural that dominates one of the main walls.

From the bar, you can order from the almost 20 beers on tap (they are the first place outside of Christchurch to be offering cult craft brew, Fermentist) if not a very nicely priced glass of Louis Roederer Champagne (because what’s the point of opening a bottle at home if it’s only for a glass). We happily learnt that they’re also adept at making espresso martinis — a crucial test of a bar’s worthiness. The food menu comprises uncomplicated pub food that’s dressed up and scrumptious to look at. Small plates like spicy crumbed cauliflower and crispy prawn tacos give way to mains like chicken schnitzel with Mediterranean salsa, the Morningside Burger, and, of course, wood-fired pizzas.