Who Are We?

Ernest is a lot more than carefully crafted food and drink: it is a Late Night Lounge created by us for you. Where you go for one drink and end up staying all night.

Settle in and let the music and atmosphere envelop you. Our team will take care of the rest.

30 Alexandra Street, Hamilton

Founder | Craig Loveday

Craig Loveday is the face behind Ernest bringing his vision of hospitality to Hamilton. He has operated multiple hotels and restaurants in the UK and Australia so is a hospitality veteran.

Ernest was inspired by his desire to dine out at a laid-back venue combined with his passion for creating new and unique food and drinks.

Bar Manager | Dylan Hawkings

Dylan Hawkings, a Hamilton local, discovered his love for crafting delicious drinks when he took on a part-time role as a bartender during his accounting studies. Presently, he has unearthed a new aspiration - to one day establish his own bar.

For Dylan, the most enjoyable aspect of being a bar manager is the chance to create unique experiences through his drinks.

Head Chef | Haedyn Woollaston

Haedyn Woollaston is the creative mind responsible for the inventive food offerings at Ernest's. After leaving a significant impact during his nine-year journey in Australia, Haedyn chose to return home.

The move home was prompted by his love for produce, quality, and family. New Zealand’s quality product is something you don’t see anywhere else in the world, with ingredients that speak for themselves he says the potential is endless.