Common Room owners Chris Whyte and Fiona (Fi) Lee wrote on social media that the fire, and the “ongoing challenges” of running a late-night venue meant the time was right to bring their public bar ownership to a close.
“It is with a heavy heart, and much consideration, we have made the difficult decision to close Common Room.
“To our amazing team, talented artists, and loyal customers, thank you for everything and for your support over the last 2 years.
“At this stage, Common Room will be available for private events and venue hire only.”
Chris Whyte, centre, and Fiona Lee, left, outside The Common Room when they reopened it. Photo / Mitchell Hageman
“We have put our heart and soul into Common Room over the last two years, and we are so grateful for everything this space has meant to so many people.”
A police spokesperson said officers were made aware of multiple arsons in the Hastings area between 2am and 3.15am on Saturday morning.
“These incidents occurred around the Hastings CBD and Akina residential areas.
“Some incidents involved the alleged offender lighting vehicles on fire and damaging property.
A 47-year-old was taken into custody in the Havelock North area and police were now appealing for information from the public to assist inquiries.
“We would also like to hear from anyone who may have information to any alleged arson incidents within the Hastings and Havelock North areas this weekend.
“We’re pleased to have held this alleged offender to account and hope this arrest brings reassurance to our communities.”
The man was due to appear in Hastings District Court yesterday, facing five charges of arson, attempted arson and disorderly behaviour.
A fire behind Common Room in Hastings in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The Common Room has faced challenges in recent years.
In 2024, it was subject to noise complaints from guests at a new Quest Hotel nearby.
Alexia Barbarouses took over running of the bar recently. Photo / Rafaella Melo
Then owner Gerard Barron said at the time it could no longer run its popular outdoor music events due to the complaint invoking council noise restrictions.
Barron left shortly afterwards and Whyte and Lee, owners of the popular Off The Track restaurant, embarked on a major fit-out of the bar, reopening it in September 2024.
A serious brawl at the bar left several people injured earlier this year, and court proceedings are ongoing.
Just weeks ago, Whyte and Lee handed over the day-to-day management to Alexia Barbarouses, who told Hawke’s Bay Today she wanted to transform the space.