Our Story.
The idea behind My Little Pub was born during the COVID-19 lockdown when founder Gary Altenburg, like all of us, found himself without a pub to frequent and with a bit of extra time on his hands.
Having fit out dozens of pubs up and down New Zealand over the years and having spent plenty of time in Irish and English pubs, it all came together. Why not give people the opportunity to have their own perfect little pub in their own backyard?
Just a few short months later, co-owners Gary Altenburg and Breiana Bennetts turned the idea into reality, delivering custom crafted Little Pubs to happy clients around New Zealand.
T. O’Loughlin’s was the first Little Irish Pub to be built in December 2020. Named after Gary’s father-in-law, Terry O’Loughlin who was treated to a surprise when the Little Irish Pub was unveiled with his name on it, painted in the colour of the O’Loughlin home country and adorned with old historic family photos. The Little Irish Pub very quickly became a hit with the family, workmates, neighbours and anyone who spotted it on the back of the truck travelling through Christchurch streets on its way to its new home.
As time has gone on and more Little Pubs have come to life, Gary, Breiana (Gary’s niece), and Charlotte (Gary’s wife) have continued to evolve My Little Pub, building a name people can trust and an experience that celebrates story-telling, connection and craftsmanship.
“We’re always refining the details and looking for ways to create a better experience for the people who welcome one into their lives. Each Little Pub just gets better and better.”
My Little Pub has found it’s strength in being a family run and orientated business, creating amazing personal experiences for other families and their friends.
“We love creating these unique spaces and placing them in the backyards of great people. Each Little Pub has its own story, and every Little Publican is incredibly hospitable and welcoming, which makes what we do even more rewarding.
There’s something really special about watching a new owner step inside their Little Pub for the first time. You see them struck with awe, standing in quiet appreciation as they take in every little detail and the meticulous care that has gone into every corner.
It’s an honour and a privilege to create such meaningful spaces that bring people together."
And of course no Little Pub would exist without the wider teams and suppliers My Little Pub work with. Particularly MWF Manufacturing, Gary & Charlotte’s joinery business (that they’ve had for 21 years) who always always produce top quality work, have a “nothing’s a problem” attitude and are a great team of people to work with.
So there you have it. We're just a small, pub-loving family business, passionate about creating something truly special. A beautifully crafted Little Pub for your backyard, made to be shared and enjoyed with family and friends for years to come.
Gary, Brei & Char
