SPQR owner ‘really sorry’ as popular Auckland restaurant goes into liquidation

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SPQR is located on Auckland’s Ponsonby Road.
Photo: RNZ / Melanie Earley

A popular restaurant in Auckland’s Ponsonby, SPQR, is in liquidation.

According to the companies register, SPQR Limited was placed in liquidation on Thursday.

The Ponsonby Road eatery opened in 1992 and has been serving up modern Italian cuisine since.

Co-liquidator Stephen Lawrence confirmed SPQR had been placed in voluntary liquidation and there were now five days for the liquidators to make a report.

“The hospitality industry is struggling and has been since the Covid-19 pandemic. Globally, it’s hard out there for people and when the dollar is tight, this sector suffers.”

The restaurant had been operating since 1992.
Photo: RNZ / Melanie Earley

Lawrence said overheads had increased for hospitality businesses and they faced higher costs for supplies.

In a statement, SPQR owner Chris Rupe said he was “really sorry” about the situation.

“I just wanted to say to everyone, that I really appreciate the support.

“Thanks so much for your understanding, Aucklanders. I know you loyally share the love I’ve had for SPQR for the past 27 years.

The doors are closed at the restaurant.
Photo: RNZ / Melanie Earley

“In the meantime, please spread your patronage around other locally owned hospo businesses and show your support for the challenging but highly rewarding job they do.”

A Ponsonby resident said “it’s very sad” to see SPQR closed.

“I couldn’t believe it when my kids told me it was open just yesterday and I went there only a few nights ago.”

It comes weeks after Chapel Bar & Bistro, on the same road, went into receivership.

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