Best live music venues in Auckland: find options near you
Auckland is a city that pulses with energy, especially when it comes to its lively music scene. The array of performance spaces dedicated to showcasing talent is truly remarkable, offering experiences that range from intimate acoustic sets to large-scale concerts. Music enthusiasts can find a rich tapestry of genres reflected in these venues, each contributing to the cultural fabric of this dynamic urban landscape.
Among the many locations for live performances scattered throughout the city, some stand out for their unique atmosphere, exceptional acoustics, and the caliber of artists they attract. These spots not only provide a platform for local talent but also host international acts, ensuring that audiences enjoy a diverse range of musical experiences. Whether you're a casual concert-goer or a dedicated fan, Auckland's music venues promise unforgettable nights filled with rhythm and melody.
Discover 10 outstanding options for live music venues in Auckland
Here are 10 outstanding options for live music venues in Auckland based on value for money:
1. Spark Arena
Spark Arena is a fantastic venue that offers a wonderful experience for concert and sports enthusiasts. With spacious seating and excellent sightlines, every seat provides a great view of the action. The atmosphere is always electric, making it a perfect spot for live performances and events.
The staff at Spark Arena are friendly and helpful, ensuring that guests have a smooth visit from entry to exit. Additionally, the facilities are well-maintained, contributing to an enjoyable experience. Overall, Spark Arena is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable event.
Just a tip: arrive early for events, as parking can be difficult and costly. Consider getting dropped off, using public transport, or walking if possible. Overall, a fantastic venue worth visiting!
2. Caretaker
Tuesday: 17:00–03:00
Wednesday: 17:00–03:00
Thursday: 17:00–03:00
Friday: 17:00–03:00
Saturday: 17:00–03:00
Sunday: 17:00–03:00
The Caretaker offers a unique and immersive experience that stands out in the cocktail scene. The absence of a menu invites guests to engage with the knowledgeable staff, who expertly tailor drinks to individual preferences, creating a personalized touch that enhances the entire visit.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a night out. Patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that not only delight the palate but also provide a sense of adventure with each sip. A trip to Caretaker is truly a memorable experience worth savoring.
We actually went twice in the same day.
The first time, I asked for something inspired by a White Russian—nothing too specific, as I wanted to give the bartender some creative freedom. Unfortunately, I was served a classic White Russian without any special twist, which was a bit disappointing considering the price. To be fair, half of the menu wasn’t available either. It wasn’t a terrible experience, just underwhelming.
A couple of hours later, we decided to come back and this time we sat at the bar. We had the chance to speak directly with one of the bartenders, Lock , and the experience completely changed. He listened carefully to what we were looking for and absolutely nailed it—delivering not only a delicious cocktail but a truly enjoyable moment as well.
Watching him work was fun, engaging, and—honestly—a little sexy, which kind of fits the whole vibe of the place.
I’ll definitely be back!
I love the concept, and the vibe inside was dark, brooding and prohibition-esque. A no-menus place where the server asks you questions to find out what you like and they whip something up for you.
The place was humming, with empty tables not staying empty long. The service was really great… we were apologised to twice for having to wait for someone to see us, but it wasn’t that long at all.
The 2 cocktails we had were exactly down our alley, so they know what they’re doing.
We explained to one guy as we were paying that we were doing like a low key crawl to cool spots, and he provided some suggestions, which was nice. Would definitely return. Bring some coin though, at $24 per drink it’s up there, but think of it as a show too!
The place looks great and great concept and love the drinks. Just doesn’t work. The serving is very slow and what seems like hard work. You can’t even order 2 drinks at a time maybe as that will make them even slower. Great table service just as they do not have a menu they ask you what you like and conk a drink to your taste. It may be a better idea to have menus to speed drinks up. Not sure 30 mins is acceptable anywhere waiting for a drink and only one at a time.
Was well worth a visit but only for one drink as not sure you will enjoy the wait. Maybe it’s the New Zealand way of things.
The staff were incredibly skilled and experienced, making us feel welcome and well taken care of. The live music added a wonderful touch, creating a vibrant and enjoyable ambiance throughout the night.
If they start offering some deals or specials, it would make the place even more exciting. But overall, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a unique and memorable evening.
Drinks come at least 10 if not 15 mins after ordered.
3. The Lula Inn
Tuesday: 00:00–10:00, 12:00–00:00
Wednesday: 00:00–10:00, 12:00–22:00
Thursday: 12:00–23:00
Friday: 12:00–02:00
Saturday: 10:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–21:00
The Lula Inn provides a delightful dining experience with its stunning waterfront views and welcoming atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the exceptional service they receive, making every visit feel special and personal. The friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring a memorable experience, going above and beyond to cater to guests’ needs.
The menu offers a range of delicious options, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails. With its inviting decor and lively ambiance, The Lula Inn is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a relaxing meal while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. It’s a place that leaves patrons eager to return for more.
The mains were average and the desert below average.
Had high hopes.
The Lula Inn is a must-visit, and Jordan’s outstanding service is the cherry on top!
4. Brew on Quay
Tuesday: 11:00–23:30
Wednesday: 11:00–23:30
Thursday: 11:00–23:30
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–23:00
Brew on Quay is a delightful spot that combines a rich history with a cozy ambiance. The stunning architecture features warm wood and unique decor, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons. Enjoying a drink here is a true pleasure, with friendly staff who enhance the overall experience.
The menu offers a variety of satisfying dishes, making it an ideal place for casual dining. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink or enjoying a meal with friends, Brew on Quay promises excellent service and a relaxing environment that keeps guests coming back for more.
We walked back and were not disappointed. The staff was great and the food was tasty.
I had the beef meat pie and it was wonderful. The meat was tender and very flavorful and the top crust was light and flaky.
I paired that with a local stout and I was in heaven.
Our meal and drinks were reasonably priced, but the staff made dining here very pleasant. They were patient in answering our questions and made us feel very welcomed.
Seek out this place for a relaxing good time.
5. Q Theatre
The Q Theatre offers an exceptional atmosphere for enjoying live performances, making it a top choice for theatre enthusiasts. With its versatile layout, it successfully accommodates various events, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
Patrons consistently praise the efficient service and well-organized operations, particularly during busy nights. The on-site bar adds to the enjoyment, providing a selection of refreshments that enhance the overall ambiance, making every visit a delightful outing.
The venue deals really well with handling a lot of people arriving at the same time.
The bar staff were really efficient and the seating and viewing for everyone in the venue was perfect.
Awesome vibes, highly recommend a night of laughing to everyone.
James Ashwin
Kakapo Business Sales
Went to see Fly My Pretties which was great. BUT. The ticketing system needs attention.
I booked my tickets a few weeks in advance and printed them off. Row C seats 23 and 24. On arriving at row C I found the seat numbers only went to 20. I asked the usher for help and she contacted someone on her ear piece. We were told 19 and 20 were our seats.
Today, after the show, I got an email which was a supposed copy of my original receipt with seats C19 and 20. What the heck? It’s like they’ve changed they original booking to make it appear it was my mistake.
Didn’t appreciate it, nor standing like a numpty waiting to have it resolved in the theatre.
(I did appreciate the young usher’s help, she was polite and dealt with the situation well) It’s a shame as the venue was great, as was the show.
Long queues to get drinks which seems standard everywhere now. Loads of ladies toilets though so minimal queuing there which was a lovely surprise.
6. The Portland Public House
Tuesday: 16:00–00:00
Wednesday: 16:00–00:00
Thursday: 16:00–02:00
Friday: 15:00–02:00
Saturday: 12:00–02:00
Sunday: 12:00–00:00
The Portland Public House offers an inviting atmosphere with a focus on delicious food and exceptional service. Guests often rave about the quality of dishes, such as the mouthwatering burgers and unique appetizers. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, making every visit enjoyable.
Additionally, the variety of cocktails and drinks enhances the dining experience, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just grabbing a meal with friends, The Portland Public House is a fantastic choice that leaves a lasting impression.
This is an exceptional place in Kingsland, close to the bus stop, train station, Eden Park with ample down a nearby side street.
I highly recommend this place to anyone local or visiting the area.
We had a reservation at Portland Public House to celebrate my friend’s birthday, but the evening turned out to be incredibly stressful. The ordering and reservation system seemed completely disorganized. We waited nearly an hour for our food, which never arrived, and during that time, a woman came over, stared at us, and told us that we were sitting at her reserved table—even though our reservation details were clearly displayed on the table. She and others came back multiple times, which made us feel very uncomfortable.
When we reached out to the staff and the manager for help, the solution offered was simply to move us to another table, without any explanation or apology. We eventually decided to leave. It was honestly a painful experience on what should have been a happy occasion.
While I didn’t get to try the food, the place seemed quite busy and popular—so perhaps they are capable of better. But I can’t help but wonder: were we treated this way because we were a smaller group? Or because we were one of the few Asian guests that evening? I sincerely hope that wasn’t the case.
I had ribs with chips & salad, ribs were peppery bbq almost like spicy but nice, chips were fine, but salad was bland. 6/10
My son had Karage chicken burger with chips he loved it rated it a 7/10. $18 + $4.5 for the chips
My niece had nachos she loved it, 8.5/10. $22
Partner had a beef burger he said there wasn’t anything great about it but said it was average. 7/10 $18 + $4.5 for the chips.
$25 for a jug of lemonade.
Over all the staff were very chirpy and nice.
Parked across the road for free parking.
7. The Fiddler Irish Bar
Tuesday: 14:00–03:00
Wednesday: 14:00–03:00
Thursday: 12:00–04:00
Friday: 12:00–04:00
Saturday: 12:00–04:00
Sunday: 14:00–03:00
The Fiddler Irish Bar is a fantastic destination for those seeking a lively atmosphere and excellent service. With a wide selection of local and imported beers, guests can enjoy refreshing drinks while soaking in the friendly vibes. The bartenders are not only knowledgeable but also create a welcoming environment that makes everyone feel at home.
Additionally, the rooftop seating offers stunning views, making it an ideal spot for relaxing on sunny days. The presence of live music and engaging locals adds to the charm, ensuring that every visit is memorable. It’s definitely a place to unwind and connect with friends over great drinks and laughter.
Scary incident when a guy walked in, talking nonsense and acted weird. Bartender called police and it took some time for the man to finally reluctantly leave.
I was uncomfortable when the matter unfolded but admired how calm and stern the staff was. She handled the situation professionally.
Other than this crazy episode, The Fiddler was a cool place to have drinks and hang out. There’s even a second floor open air area, perfect for a good weather day.
Will recommend.
8. Cassette Nine
Tuesday: 20:00–03:00
Wednesday: 20:00–04:00
Thursday: 20:00–04:00
Friday: 20:00–04:00
Saturday: 20:00–04:00
Sunday: Closed
Cassette Nine is an excellent venue for those seeking a lively atmosphere and a unique experience. The teapot cocktails are a memorable highlight, perfect for sharing among friends. The ambiance is enhanced by friendly staff who are eager to assist and create an enjoyable time for guests.
With great music and a fun crowd, this spot is ideal for a night out. The combination of creative drinks and a welcoming vibe makes it a top choice for socializing. Visitors will leave with lasting memories and a desire to return for more enjoyable evenings.
9. Ding Dong Lounge
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 19:00–02:00
Thursday: 19:00–02:00
Friday: 19:00–04:00
Saturday: 19:00–04:00
Sunday: Closed
Ding Dong Lounge offers a fantastic atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd. The staff are exceptionally friendly, creating a welcoming environment for both newcomers and regulars alike. Whether you’re there to enjoy live music or simply relax with friends, the vibe is always upbeat and inviting.
The selection of drinks is impressive, with great specials that make it easy to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. Patrons can always expect lively interactions with both the bartenders and fellow guests, ensuring a memorable experience every time you visit. It’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind and have fun!
Update: returned again, still great! Cousin ordered the curly fries which were really nice
$8 house drinks 12-1 which was brilliant.
Staff are always friendly and helpful
10. Whammy Bar/Double Whammy/Public Bar
Whammy Bar is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves live music. The atmosphere is lively, and the sound quality is exceptional, making every performance memorable. The bar area provides a great place to socialize, and the staff are friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall experience.
The venue has a unique charm that attracts diverse crowds, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. With reasonably priced tickets and a commitment to supporting local artists, Whammy Bar is definitely a must-visit for music enthusiasts looking for an authentic night out.
Small entrance be prepared to wait a little to get in. Iconic venue you will love if you’re a true lover of bands.
By using messenger I contacted the bar this morning and they immediately replied and said yes they had it.
Had a great night as well.
Very very pleased, and I was able to pick up after hours at there suggestion.
I can’t thank everyone enough.
Brilliant service and how amazingly honest .
Bar is separated from the music venue so it has a cool concert feeling. You can of course take your drink through with you.
Sound is great!
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Catalog of services offered by live music venues in Auckland
Live Performances
One of the primary offerings of live music venues in Auckland is live performances. These venues host a variety of artists, ranging from local talent to internationally recognized acts, providing a platform for musicians to showcase their skills and entertain audiences. Genres can vary widely, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
Event Hosting
Many live music venues in Auckland also specialize in event hosting. This includes private parties, corporate events, and special celebrations. Venues can be rented for specific occasions, providing a unique atmosphere complemented by live music, catering options, and customized arrangements to fit the event's needs.
Food and Beverage Services
Most live music venues offer a range of food and beverage services to enhance the overall experience. Patrons can enjoy everything from casual snacks to full meals, along with a selection of local and international beverages. This combination of music and dining creates a more enjoyable and immersive experience for attendees.
Open Mic Nights
Open mic nights are a popular feature in many Auckland live music venues. These events allow aspiring musicians to take the stage and perform in front of an audience, providing a supportive environment for new talent to develop and gain exposure. It also offers audiences a chance to discover fresh sounds and styles.
Live Music Festivals
Some venues are known for hosting live music festivals, which feature multiple acts across various genres over a weekend or week-long event. These festivals attract large crowds and often include food stalls, merchandise, and activities, making them a highlight of the local cultural calendar.
Sound and Lighting Equipment Rentals
Live music venues often provide sound and lighting equipment rentals for artists and event organizers. This service ensures that performers have access to high-quality audio and visual equipment, enhancing their shows and providing audiences with an unforgettable experience.
Artist Management and Promotion
Many venues also engage in artist management and promotion. This involves helping musicians with marketing strategies, booking gigs, and managing their public relations. By supporting local talent, venues contribute to the thriving music scene in Auckland.
Community Engagement Programs
Live music venues in Auckland frequently participate in community engagement programs. These initiatives may include music workshops, educational sessions, and collaborative events aimed at fostering a love for music within the community. Such programs help build connections between artists and audiences while nurturing the next generation of musicians.
Frequently asked questions about live music venues in Auckland
What types of live music venues are available in Auckland?
Auckland offers a diverse range of live music venues, catering to various genres and audience sizes. These include intimate bars, large concert halls, outdoor festivals, and theatrical venues. Popular genres such as rock, jazz, electronic, and classical can be enjoyed across these different spaces.
How do I find out about upcoming live music events?
To stay informed about upcoming live music events in Auckland, you can check various online platforms such as local event calendars, social media pages of venues, and dedicated music websites. Subscribing to newsletters from your favorite venues can also provide timely information about concerts and events.
Are there any age restrictions for live music venues?
Many live music venues in Auckland have age restrictions depending on the type of event and the venue's licensing. Some places may be strictly 18+, while others may allow minors when accompanied by an adult. It's always best to check the venue's policy before attending an event.
What should I expect in terms of ticket prices?
Ticket prices for live music events in Auckland can vary widely based on the artist, venue, and seating arrangements. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 for smaller shows to over $100 for major concerts. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for popular acts, to avoid higher prices at the door.
Do live music venues offer food and drinks?
Most live music venues in Auckland provide a range of food and drink options, from casual snacks to full meals. Some venues have bars and restaurants on-site, while others may allow you to bring in food from nearby establishments. Always check the venue's policy regarding food and beverages before your visit.
Can I book a private event at a live music venue?
Many live music venues offer options for private events, such as parties, corporate events, or weddings. Each venue has its own policies regarding bookings, capacity limits, and available services. It’s important to reach out to the venue directly to inquire about availability and pricing.
How accessible are live music venues for people with disabilities?
Accessibility varies from venue to venue in Auckland. Many live music venues strive to be inclusive and provide accessible seating, wheelchair ramps, and restroom facilities for people with disabilities. It is recommended to check with the venue ahead of time to ensure that any specific needs can be accommodated.
What is the best time to arrive for a live music event?
Arriving at least 30 minutes to an hour early is advisable for most live music events. This allows you ample time to find parking, navigate through security, and get settled before the performance begins. For popular shows, arriving earlier may also increase your chances of getting good seating.
Are there options for public transportation to live music venues?
Auckland has a variety of public transportation options that can take you to many live music venues. Buses, trains, and ferries operate throughout the city, making it relatively easy to reach popular locations. Always check the transport schedules and plan your trip accordingly to make sure you arrive on time.
What safety measures are in place at live music venues?
Live music venues in Auckland typically implement various safety measures to ensure the well-being of attendees. This might include security checks at the entrance, crowd management protocols, and emergency evacuation plans. Many venues also adhere to health guidelines to promote a safe environment, especially during larger events.