THE GOLDEN EXPANSION

The Golden Bear in Mapua has expanded its offerings with the inclusion of a restaurant that overlooks the wharf area.

What initially started as a brewery has since grown into quite the destination that combines excellent local beer, and high-quality cuisine.

Owners of the Golden Bear, Jim and Anne Matranga are originally from the USA, and used to joke about moving to New Zealand and starting a brewery/Mexican-inspired food joint—and now dreams have become a reality, and expanded.

The new restaurant offering comes with an extended menu, as well, cooked up by head chef Ben Smith, who has worked across the globe for several prestigious restaurants. The new menu is said to be a combination of fine-dining and excellent pub food.