Whelan’s

Look closely, and you might notice that Whelan’s isn’t just any new Little Pub—it’s the original. Once known as T. O’Loughlin’s, this was the very first Little Irish Pub, now reborn with a new name, a fresh coat of paint, and a brand-new home.

Last year, Clare & Glen came to us with a dream, to have a Little Pub of her own, one to share with her soon-to-be husband, Glen, and as a nod to her father’s Irish heritage. As close friends of My Little Pub founders, Gary & Charlotte, Clare and Glen had already spent many memorable nights in T. O’Loughlin’s, enjoying great company, laughter, and of course, a good tipple. They knew firsthand how special and how much fun a Little Pub could be.
 
As the year went on, everything started falling into place. Clare and Glen had the perfect spot on their Nelson property, a strong Irish connection, and a wedding on the horizon. The only thing missing? A pub of their own. But with January fast approaching and several Little Pubs already in the works, time was running out. That’s when the perfect solution presented itself, passing along the original T. O’Loughlin’s Little Pub to its new home, where it would continue to be loved and cherished.
On their wedding night, Clare and Glen’s Little Pub was a surprise to their guests who celebrated into the early hours, raising 50 litres of Guinness and creating memories to last a lifetime.

Today, Whelan’s Irish Pub is a beloved gathering place for friends and Wakefield neighbours, hosting comedy nights, rugby & football screenings, and quiz nights. The pub is filled with nostalgia and personal touches, from treasured photos of Clare’s parents and their hospitality days to special memorabilia from Glen’s family. Nestled beneath tōtara trees, Glen has even built a deck around it, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the late afternoon sun.
 
The journey of Whelan’s feels like a changing of the guard—marking the end of an era for us at My Little Pub while beginning an exciting new one for Clare and Glen. The memories made here so far have been incredible, and we know there are many more to come.

My personal favourite bit of this Little Pub? The Notre Dame Fighting Irish Football Leprechaun - but that's a story for another day. 

Sláinte to new beginnings!