End of an era for Beachcomber

FAREWELL: David Chapman serves up another beer at the Beachcomber Bar and Cafe.

The Beachcomber Bar and Cafe, at Paraparaumu Beach, closes its doors for the final time on Friday.

Owner and publican David Chapman said it was time to move on after 19 years in charge of the business on Marine Parade.

Before launching the Beachcomber Bar and Cafe, Mr Chapman was in charge of The Pier as well as the Beach Bar and Cafe, both of which were nearby.

And before that he was involved in businesses in Hawke's Bay and Wairarapa.

He had enjoyed his time at the Beachcomber although he said his passion had been waning in recent times.

Running the business was very time consuming across all facets from pouring drinks, cooking food, cleaning, book keeping to running popular karaoke nights.

"I don't know how I've done it for so long really.

"I don't think I'll miss the 1am finishes and telling people to go."

And running a bar was a lot different nowadays, especially the amount of paperwork relating to new regulations especially food, not to mention the tighter drink driving law.

"Running a bar is really hard work."

With his 65th birthday fast approaching, and having been in the hospitality industry for 46 years - he poured his first pint when he was 18 - it was now time to move on.

He's keen to devote more time to family, especially his grandson, his thriving Coast Coach Lines business, and if he wants to go somewhere for a few weeks he will instead of being tied to the bar business.

Mr Chapman thanked everyone for their custom over the years as well as staff who had helped him.

He understood the building's owners were going to revamp the building including some earthquake strengthening work.

The Beachcomber Bar and Cafe closes late on Friday.

On Saturday and Sunday, from 8am, there will be a sale of the business's chattels.

"It's the end of an era," Mr Chapman said.