FAQS

 
 

frequently asked questions

GASTRO PUB & RESTAURANT

Bookings & Seating

What are your opening hours?

Our Gastro Pub is open Mon–Thurs 12pm–late and Fri–Sun 11am–late.

The Captain’s Dining Room is open Wednesday–Sunday from 5.30pm.

Accommodation is available seven days a week, our check in is open during our Gastro Pub open hours. 

How do I book a table online?

You can book online here: thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz/table-booking.

Or phone us and our AI Receptionist will assist you (or you can ask to be transferred to speak to one of our team. Alternatively you can email team@thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz 

Do you accept walk-ins? 

Yes, we welcome walk-ins, but we recommend booking in advance—especially weekends and holidays.

Can I make a last-minute booking?

Yes, subject to availability. We do not take any dinner reservations after 4pm on the day of the reservation 

How far in advance should I book for large groups?

For groups of 10+, we recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks ahead.

For groups of 15+, please call or email to confirm arrangements.

Is there a waitlist if you’re fully booked?

Yes. If we are fully booked, you can join a waitlist and we’ll contact you if a space becomes available.

Do you have outdoor seating?

Yes! We have our famous Main Street deck and a beautiful Garden Bar at the rear.

Can I reserve a private dining area?

Yes. We have several semi-private and private spaces available—email or call to arrange.

Food & Menu

Do you offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?

Yes. We have many options, and both menus are available here: thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz/fresh-local.

Do you cater for allergies or special diets?

Yes—we’re happy to accommodate dietary requests where practical. Please let us know when ordering.

Do you use locally sourced ingredients?

Yes. We proudly showcase local Wairarapa suppliers, use Wairarapa produce wherever possible, and offer a 100% Wairarapa wine list and a great range of Wairarapa gins.

Is there a children’s menu?

Yes, in our Gastro Pub. Please note: The Captain’s Dining Room is adults-only.

Can I pre-order meals if I’m in a hurry?

Yes. We can assist with pre-orders and takeaway meals from our Gastro Menu —just call us. Subject to kitchen wait times 

Policies & Services

Are you licensed or BYO?

Our restaurant and bar are not BYO. Hotel guests may bring their own alcohol to their rooms.

Do you offer takeaway or delivery?

We offer takeaway meals from the Gastro menu and have a licence to sell takeaway wine and spirits.

We do not offer delivery.

Do you have highchairs?

Yes—please let us know when booking or on arrival.

Do you accommodate birthdays or special occasions?

Absolutely—we love celebrations!  For groups of 15+, please call or email. More details: thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz/functions-events.

Can I bring a cake?

Yes. You’re welcome to bring a celebration cake in the Gastro Pub.

Can I put up decorations for my function?

Yes, with some restrictions. Please check with our team before bringing decorations. Charges may apply if decorations leave mess or damage to property.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept major credit cards, EFTPOS and online payments. We do not accept 

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes—available online or at reception.

Other common queries

What’s the dress code?

Tidy casual. (Gang patches are not permitted. We may refuse entry to ensure a safe, comfortable environment.)

Do you have seasonal menus or promotions?

Yes—our menus change seasonally and we run regular specials.

Where can I find your reviews?

Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor and our website feature guest reviews.

GASTRO BAR FAQs

What are your bar opening hours?

Same as the Gastro Pub: Mon–Thurs 12pm–late, Fri–Sun 11am–late.

Do you serve cocktails, craft beer, and local wines?

Yes—we offer a full bar including cocktails, NZ craft beers and a 100% Wairarapa wine list.

Do you offer tasting paddles or flights? 

Yes—ask our bar team for seasonal tasting tray options.

Can I book a table in the bar area?

Yes - subject to availability.

Do you have live music or events?

Occasionally. Follow our social media for announcements.

Are minors allowed in the bar?

Yes, if accompanied by a legal guardian.

Do you offer bar snacks or a full menu?

The full Gastro menu is available in the bar.

Can I run a bar tab for a group?

Yes—pre-authorisation may be required.

Do you have happy hour specials?

From time to time—check in-venue or online.

Do you accept walk-ins for drinks only?

Absolutely.

What is ‘The Galley’?

The Galley is our casual dining space at the rear of the main bar, perfect for drinks and relaxed dining. It has a beautiful open fire and is great for small private functions or catching up with friends. 

What is the Gastro Pub?

The Gastro Pub is our relaxed dining space offering hearty, elevated pub meals.

CAPTAIN’S DINING ROOM FAQs

Bookings & Seating

What type of food do you serve?

Refined, seasonal dishes with a focus on local Wairarapa produce.

What’s the style of service?

A relaxed but elevated modern dining experience with attentive service.

What are the opening hours?

Wednesday–Sunday from 5.30pm.

Do you accept walk-ins?

Yes, when space allows. Booking is strongly recommended.

Can I make a last-minute booking?

Yes—call us and we’ll do our best to fit you in.

How far in advance should I book for large groups?

1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.

Do you have outdoor seating?

The Captain’s Dining Room is indoors and adults-only. Outdoor seating is available in our Gastro Pub and Garden Bar.

Can I reserve a private dining area?

Yes—contact us to arrange.

Is there a waitlist if you’re fully booked?

Yes—join our waitlist and we’ll notify you of openings.

Food & Menu

Do you offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?

Yes—we cater to dietary needs where practical.

Do you cater for allergies?

Yes—please mention allergies when you book and again when ordering.

Do you use locally sourced ingredients?

Yes, with a strong focus on Wairarapa suppliers.

Is there a children’s menu?

No. The Captain’s Dining Room is adults only.

Can I book a group on a set menu?

Yes—set menus are available for larger bookings.

Can I pre-order meals?

Generally not required, but contact us for group dining needs.

Policies & Services

Do you accommodate birthdays and special occasions?

Yes—let us know when booking.

Can I bring a cake?

Yes— In the gastro pub

What payment methods do you accept?

All major cards and EFTPOS.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes—available online and onsite.

Other common queries

What’s the dress code?

Tidy casual.

Do you have seasonal menus?

Yes—menus are updated regularly.

Where can I find reviews?

Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor and our website.

ACCOMMODATION FAQs

Booking & Check-In

How do I book a room online?

Book here: thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz/stay.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in from 2pm, check-out at 10am.

Can I request early check-in or late check-out?

Yes—subject to availability. There is a $20 fee for an early or late check-out. The latest check-out is 11am. The earliest check-in is 1pm.

Can I check in late?

Yes—please contact us in advance for after-hours instructions if arriving after 8pm

Do you require a deposit? No. We do require a valid credit card to secure the booking.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations less than 48 hours prior to arrival will be charged the full cost of the booking. No shows will be charged the full cost of the booking. 

Room Features

Do rooms have air conditioning and heating? Rooms do not have air conditioning. Rooms have electric portable heaters and fans. 

How many rooms do you have? 13

We have a mix of 7 Deluxe rooms upstairs in the Hotel, plus 3 Park Studios and 3 Park Suites at the rear of the Hotel.   

What’s the difference between Park Suites/Studios and the main building rooms?

Park Suites and Studios offer quieter, more private accommodation separated from the main building.

Main building rooms offer character-filled boutique charm.

Can I arrange split beds?

Yes—in selected rooms. Please request when booking. Split beds can be added to Park Suite 1, Park Suite 2, Park Suite 6, and Park Studio 4

What size are the beds?

Rooms vary, including queens, kings and super kings. See room descriptions online.

Which rooms have balconies or outdoor areas?

Rooms with balconies upstairs in the Hotel are the Hunter Room, Pinot Noir Room, Dark Skies Room, Governor’s Room and the Homestead Room. All Park Studios have a small balcony. The Park Suites have an outdoor patio each.

Can I book a portacot?

Yes—portacots are available with a charge of $40

Do any rooms have a microwave?

Some suites include additional amenities—please see the room description on the booking page of our website for a full list of amenities for each room.

Is Wi-Fi included?

Yes—free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Where can I smoke or vape?

Smoking/vaping is not permitted indoors. Designated outdoor areas are provided.

Are tea/coffee facilities provided?

Yes—every room includes tea, coffee and a kettle.

Do you provide toiletries and hairdryers?

Yes, every room has a hair dryer and a small selection of amenities. Please see the room description on the booking page of our website for a full list of amenities for each room.

Are there accessible rooms available?

Yes— we have 3 ground-level rooms with accessible entry, and Park Suite 2 has an accessible shower and toilet. Contact us for details.

Services & Extras

Is breakfast included?

Breakfast is not automatically included, but can be added or purchased in-house.

Can I order breakfast to my room?

Breakfast is delivered to your room on a tray. Breakfast is available between 8.30am and 9.30am only.

Do you offer room service?

Yes—during kitchen opening hours.

Can I order Gastro or Captain’s Dining Room meals to my room?

Room service is based on the Gastro menu. Captain’s Dining Room dishes may be available depending on service load.

Do you offer packages (e.g., dinner + accommodation)?

Yes—seasonal packages are available on our website.

Do you have parking?

Yes—free onsite parking.

Are pets allowed?

Only certified service animals are permitted.

What else is included with my booking?

You’ll receive a Greytown Passport—a booklet of local discounts—and a 20% discount code for Star Safari (included in your confirmation email).

Other common Accommodation Queries

Do you sell gift vouchers for accommodation?

Yes—available online or at reception.

How do I book a wedding or event stay?

Contact our events team for exclusive rates and group arrangements.

What sustainability practices do you follow?

We use local suppliers, reduce waste where possible, recycle, and focus on environmentally responsible practices across the hotel.

Do you have lost property?

Yes—items are logged and held for 90 days. Please contact us if you have lost something. 

My gift voucher has expired—can I still use it?

Contact us; we may be able to extend it depending on circumstances.

THE GREYTOWN AREA

How do I get to Greytown from Wellington?

Around 1 hour 15 minutes over the Remutaka Hill.

Is there a taxi service in Greytown?

Yes—local taxis are available. Ask reception for numbers.

How long does it take to get to the train station?

Featherston Train Station is 8–10 minutes from The White Swan and Woodside Train station is 10 minutes.

How far away is Martinborough?

Approximately 15 minutes by car.

Is there a Post Shop in Greytown?

Yes—located at Fresh Choice supermarket a few minutes walk from The White Swan Hotel.

Is there a Bank in Greytown?

There are banking facilities and an ATM located at Fresh Choice in Greytown.

Where is the closest EV charging station?

The nearest EV charging station is at Oak Estate Motorlodge at the Southern end of Greytown

What else is there to do in the Wairarapa?

Shopping, wineries, star gazing, gin distilleries cycling, historic walks, breweries, beaches, scenic drives and more.

You can see all the options here - www.wairarapanz.com 

GET IN TOUCH

Get in Touch – The White Swan Hotel, Greytown (Wairarapa)

Welcome to your friendly base in the heart of the Wairarapa. At The White Swan Hotel we combine boutique accommodation, a full-service restaurant and a lively gastro-bar, right on Greytown’s Main Street. Whether you’re planning a stay, a meal, or an event, we’re here to help.

Have a question about our rooms, a table in our restaurant or hosting an event? We’d love to hear from you.

  • Phone: 021 539 528

  • Email: team@thewhiteswanhotel.co.nz
    Our team is ready to assist with: accommodation bookings, dining reservations, event enquiries, gift vouchers or special requests.

Stay Connected & Explore More

Plan your next stay or dine with us and explore the Wairarapa region.