The doors of Fitzpatricks Irish Pub, on the corner of Helwick and Brownston streets, will close for good next Saturday (September 25).

Co-owner and company director Julian Field said the business relied heavily on tourists and backpackers and there has been a significant sales decline over the past 12 months.

“We’ve loved the business and it's been really good to us but lockdowns are devastating,” Julian said.

“I think the bar has been a big part of many peoples lives and we’ve given many musicians a stage to perform on. We’ve had incredible staff and I really feel for them.”

Julian said the opportunity has arisen to exit the business with an offer to take over the lease.

“I can’t say what the new lessee will do but I can tell you it won’t be hospitality,” Julian said.

His company also owns Wānaka Beerworks as well as bars in Post Office Lane. 

Julian said because the other businesses are less reliant on tourism, they are still trading well.

“There is no concern for those businesses,” he said. 

‘Fitzys’, as it is known by locals, has been operating for 10 years.

“We are hoping to send her off with the big banger that our beloved Fitzys deserves and dearly hope all that have shared the good craic with us will join us on our way out,” Julian said.

Fitzpatricks will confirm closing celebration events after the alert level decision on Monday (September 20).

PHOTO: Wānaka App