About Pointers Bar & Grill
Pointers Bar & Grill is a compact inner-city pub and live-music venue in downtown Auckland, located at 1 Lower Hobson Street. It opened in 2018 on the ground floor of a former city car park (www.ticketfairy.com ). The bar preserved much of the original “industrial” look of its predecessor (the former Underpass bar) – featuring raw concrete floors, exposed beams and steel accents (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its designers even built custom booth seating out of huge concrete pipe sections capped with wood slabs, lending the interior an urban, warehouse-club vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because the space only fits roughly 200 people at once (classified as XXS) (www.ticketfairy.com ), the atmosphere is intimate and lively rather than sprawling. Patrons describe Pointers as a “good, honest, fun” hangout where friends gather for drinks and dancing (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.soundvibemag.com ). In short, it stands out on Auckland’s waterfront as a laid-back bar & grill by early evening and a full-fledged underground-style nightclub by late night.
Events and Programming
Pointers is best known for its live music and DJ events rather than formal shows or theater. On most nights – especially Thursday through Saturday – it transforms into a dance club. The programming centers on electronic dance music and global beats. Drum-and-bass and jungle nights (“Pointers Presents” DNB events) are a signature offering (www.ticketfairy.com ). International acts have appeared as well; for example, UK jungle legend DJ Hybrid made his Auckland debut at Pointers in late 2025 (hosted by local promoter Pointers Presents) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (ra.co ). In addition to bass-driven parties, Pointers hosts a famous monthly Latin dance night called “La Latina” (promoted by The Latin Club), which brings salsa, bachata, merengue and reggaeton to the dance floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). These Latin-themed nights are among the city’s most popular dance events – advance tickets have been sold for as little as NZ$10 each (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other events have included themed funk/disco or hip-hop nights, live band showcases, and pub-quiz evenings with pizza or burger deals on weeknights. Community favorites like “burger-and-beer” nights and trivia quizzes help kick off the evening. In recent years Pointers has offered on the order of 2–3 major dance parties per month (with a few mid-week specials), ensuring there’s almost always something happening if you drop in (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Pointers are usually sold online by event promoters or through third-party sites. When big DJs or themed parties are coming, advance tickets typically go on sale several weeks ahead via the organizers’ Facebook/Instagram or event pages (www.ticketfairy.com ). Early-bird tickets often start around NZ$10–15, with general admission in the NZ$15–20 range. If the show isn’t sold out in advance, tickets can usually be bought at the door (both cash and card are accepted) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Door cover is generally $5–$10 more than the advance price. Some popular shows offer limited VIP or “bottle service” tables; these must be booked through the promoters, as Pointers itself has only a small box-office counter (www.ticketfairy.com ). For the best chance at a bargain, join Pointers’ mailing list or the promoters’ pages to get alerted to presales. On event nights, doors typically open around 10–11pm, so arriving early helps avoid long queues (www.ticketfairy.com ). And remember: since most club nights are 18+ (see below), you’ll need a valid ID even if an event is advertised as “all ages” (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
Pointers is primarily an open-plan club space with no reserved seating. The central area is a flat dance floor facing the DJ booth at one end of the room. Standing room dominates: most guests dance on the main floor or pack in front of the stage. A long service bar runs along one wall, with bar stools and a few high-top tables. Uniquely, two massive concrete culverts from the building’s car-park past have been turned into semi-enclosed booth lounges (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). These concrete booths (each topped with an oak surface) serve as tables where groups can sit between dances, or as informal VIP cubicles for table service. Another seating option is the small covered outdoor deck at the front – a sidewalk-facing terrace with steel tables and bench-block seats. While the deck looks over Lower Hobson Street, it is mainly used during smoking breaks or for a breath of air, not as a prime view of the DJ. In general, the best vantage is on the dancefloor right in front of the DJ – sound and lighting are optimized there, and you get the full immersive experience (www.ticketfairy.com ). As one reviewer noted, the floor is “spacious” and well ventilated for dancing. If you prefer a break from the crush, backing up by the bar or sitting in a phone-booth is quieter (though note the DJs usually face the crowd, so the very back corner can have a partially obstructed view) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The club has no elevated balconies or mezzanines to speak of, so you won’t miss anything by choosing a peripheral spot aside from being farther from the speakers.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Pointers sits on Lower Hobson Street in the city’s waterfront district, just south of Queens Wharf. It’s only about 600–700 meters (a 5–7 minute walk) west of the Britomart Transport Centre (Auckland’s main city train and bus hub) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Numerous buses also stop nearby: the free CityLink shuttle (Inner Link/Outer Link) has a stop at Lower Hobson/Halsey, and other main routes run along Quay Street and Fanshawe Street within a couple of blocks of the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re coming from Auckland’s North Shore or West (via the Harbour Bridge), take the 020 or 026 bus to Wynyard Quarter and walk south a few minutes to Lower Hobson. Taxis and rideshare vehicles can pull up directly outside Pointers – drivers often stop on Lower Hobson Street or nearby Customs Street for pickups/drop-offs. A handy landmark is the Auckland City Library (a large glass building on Hobson Street) just one block south of Pointers; the venue’s entrance is on the same side of the street just past the library.
Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot at the bar. On-street parking is extremely scarce (and restricted by time limits), so most locals recommend not driving. The nearest public car park is the Civic Car Park (corner of Henry and Quay Streets, near Britomart), which typically charges around NZ$2.50 per hour (capped at about $12.50 for a full day) (heartofthecity.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other downtown lots (like those by the Viaduct/Queen Street) exist but tend to charge higher flat rates ($15–$20+ for evening). If you must drive, plan to arrive very early or reserve a space in advance via a parking app. Otherwise, consider hopping on the train to Britomart or catching a bus – it’s generally easier (and cheaper) than hunting for a spot. For those biking or scootering, there are bike racks on nearby buildings; just make sure to lock up securely. Many patrons simply walk from nearby hotels (see below) or take a short stroll from the Viaduct Harbour area, which saves the hassle of late-night parking altogether (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
Doors open into a casual, club-like atmosphere. On busy nights there is a cover charge; on quieter weeknights it might be free or bundled with a first drink. At the entrance, security staff will check IDs (18+ after midnight) and may do a quick bag or pat-down check – no outside alcohol or large street food items are allowed in (www.ticketfairy.com ). A small coat check (cloakroom) is available inside, which comes in handy during colder months. The décor emphasizes its “no-frills” character: expect industrial concrete underfoot, graffiti artwork, and neon lighting accents. Before the party kicks off, you can relax on bar stools or at the booths and enjoy some food and drinks.
Dress Code & Entry: The overall vibe is friendly and low-key. There is no formal dress code, but staff enforce a standard club policy: avoid sports jerseys, large baseball caps or anything that might block views. In practice, most guests show up in jeans, T-shirts or casual clubwear, and feel welcome. Turn up a bit early (especially on a Friday/Saturday) if you want to get in without a long queue (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you plan to order alcohol, remember to bring photo ID (New Zealand driver’s license, passport or 18+ card) as it will be checked at the door.
Bar & Drinks: Pointers is fully licensed and offers a wide range of beverages. The tap list often highlights local craft beers (Panhead, Liberty, etc.) alongside standard lagers and ciders. A selection of wines, cocktails and spirits rounds out the menu. Drink prices are on par with typical city bars (for example, a pint of beer or cider might run NZ$8–10, a basic cocktail around $15). Bartenders here are known for pouring drinks quickly even when it’s busy, so service rarely slows down. From late evening onward, happy hour promotions may apply on certain nights, but once the DJ kicks in full force, prices are standard. Do note that after about 8pm the kitchen usually stops taking new orders – by late night the venue serves only bar snacks/nibbles, not the full grill menu (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Food Menu: Even though it’s called a “bar & grill,” Pointers’ food service is mostly an early-evening affair. Until roughly 7–8pm, the on-site kitchen serves pub-style food. The menu includes grilled steaks, classic burgers, fish & chips, Asian-fusion skewers, salads and share plates, generally priced under NZ$20. One crowd-pleaser is a combo meal (e.g. burger and beer) that reviewers have recommended for good value (www.ticketfairy.com ). Vegetarian options (like veggie burgers or salads) are available, but if you need fully vegan dishes you may want to request ahead or dine elsewhere. In short, if you’re hungry, arrive while the grill’s open—after that, only light snacks (nuts, crisps) are available and all focus shifts to the bar and dance floor.
Sound & Lighting: Pointers is famous for its powerful music system. According to technical reviews and patrons, the club continues Underpass’s legacy of serious sound – it originally installed a custom Martin Audio rig, which delivers booming bass for dancers (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). By late-night showtime the house lights give way to a professional club lighting rig: think strobes, moving heads and multi-color LEDs synced to the music. A slight haze from fog machines is common when DJs really get going. Overall, the effect is energetic and immersive. (Just a tip: the bass can rattle the floor, so if you have back issues keep to the edges. Earplugs are a wise pick if loud music bothers you.)
Nearby Amenities
ستل Surrounding Pointers is the heart of Auckland’s downtown waterfront, so there’s no shortage of food, drink and lodging options. For pre-show dining, Bryant Street and Quay Lane (each a couple of blocks away) host dozens of restaurants and cafes. For example, two blocks east on Hobson is Hello Beasty (inventive Asian small-plates) and Culprit (creative burger joint). Just across Quay Street lies Queen Lane, where spots like Giraffe (modern NZ cuisine) and Hello Buddha (Pan-Asian fusion) attract lunch and dinner crowds. If you prefer quick bites, the Britomart district (5-minute walk north) has a casual food court and bakeries, while food trucks often park along Halsey Street in the evenings (www.ticketfairy.com ). For classic pub fare, a good bet is The Fox, a London Pub (about one block east on Lower Hobson) – it’s a sports-bar style tavern serving pies, plates and pizzas in a British pub setting. In fact, one guide notes a nearby casual “sports bar with pizza and wings” just down the street for something similar (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Bars & Pre-Drinks: The area around Pointers is densely packed with bars and lounges, so it’s ideal for a pre-club drink crawl. Immediately next door is the Soul Bar , a dance-DJ lounge. A few blocks away on Halsey Street you’ll find Cantina Mexicana (for margaritas/tacos) and the Beer Market (a large craft-beer taproom) (www.ticketfairy.com ). On Quay Street there are rooftop bars (near the SkyCity Casino complex) with harbor views. Many locals hit one of these pubs first (“pre-game”) and then stroll over to Pointers for the late-night party. After Pointers closes (3–4am on weekends), taxis and late buses are still cruising the central city, and other late-night clubs in the Viaduct area keep going until dawn. Some party-goers might also spill into bars along Queen Street or Karangahape Road (K’ Road) which remain open late.
Hotels: If you need to stay nearby, you have plenty of choices. The modern M Social and the chic Hotel Britomart are within a 5-10 minute walk (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also close by are boutique and serviced apartments on Quay Street (like Mercure Auckland and Hotel DeBrett). For budget travelers, backpacker hostels and chain hotels line Queen and Wellesley Streets, all roughly 10-15 minutes’ walk away. One advantage of central Auckland is that public transport (trains and buses) reaches most suburbs late into the evening, so even if you stay outside the CBD you can get home after the club. Just note that trains shut down around midnight, so buses or rideshares may be needed for trips after 12am.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pointers Bar & Grill has earned a unique place in Auckland’s cultural landscape. Architecturally and atmospherically, it’s unusual for the city: the concrete culverts, exposed brick and stripped-away decor give it a rough-hewn “Berlin underground” feel not often seen in local bars (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). This industrial look (accented with neon lights and LED screens) creates an edgy yet welcoming atmosphere that visitors remember. Over time Pointers has become the go-to spot for fans of drum-&-bass, jungle and Latin dance music in Auckland. Its top-notch sound system means serious audiophiles flock to the dance floor – as one reviewer raved, it has “one of the best sound systems in Auckland” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Equally important is the social vibe: on any given night you’ll find a diverse crowd – from office workers and university students winding down from their day, to international clubbers and expats looking for a genuine Kiwi dance scene (www.ticketfairy.com ). On Latin nights especially, it might seem like a tiny fiesta of global culture, with Spanish and Portuguese mixing with English as people dance to salsa and bachata beats. For travelers, Pointers offers a slice of authentic Auckland nightlife off the usual tourist circuit (www.soundvibemag.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Perhaps most of all, it’s special because it balances high-energy parties with a non-pretentious local spirit. Longtime patrons say they keep coming back for “the best nights out” in the city – and DJs appreciate that the crowd is engaged and friendly. In short, Pointers’ combination of strong sound, distinctive industrial-chic design, and community-driven events makes it a beloved fixture in Auckland’s entertainment scene (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Pointers is wheelchair-accessible. The entrance is at street level with no steps, and the interior floorplan is flat (www.ticketfairy.com ). Staff are accustomed to helping guests with mobility needs, and there is at least one accessible restroom available. If you need assistance, language is generally friendly and easy to find at the door.
Preparation: Always bring a valid ID. As with any NZ bar or club, you won’t get in without it (driver’s license or passport, for example). Most club nights are strictly 18+ after 10pm, so even if an event is labeled “all ages,” alcohol will only be served to those 18 or older. Check the cover charge ahead of time: many late-night shows have a posted door fee (often between NZ$10–20). If you have tickets, keep them handy on your phone or as printouts. Lines can form outside, so plan to arrive around 10pm (especially Fri/Sat) to walk in promptly (www.ticketfairy.com ). During quieter events (like quiz nights), crowds are smaller and the entry process is breezier.
What to Wear/Bring: Dress casually – think jeans and a tee or clubwear. You won’t need formal attire or jackets. One thing to avoid is large baseball caps or team jerseys, since staff usually ask the owner to remove those (www.ticketfairy.com ). Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to dance. Since it can get warm on the dancefloor, you might want a light jacket (which you can check at the cloakroom). Many regulars recommend earplugs for sensitive ears – the music is loud and the bass is powerful, especially on drum-and-bass nights. Cash is handy for some cover charges or ordering merch, but cards are widely accepted at the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). Remember to keep belongings secure; the venue is generally safe, but it crowds tightly at peak times.
Age and ID: The legal drinking age in NZ is 18. Pointers strictly enforces this. On entry, the door staff will ID anyone who looks under 25. If you’re under 18, check if any special all-ages events are happening (they are rare); otherwise, plan to attend once you reach 18. If your friends want to go to Pointers but some are underage, consider meeting at one of the many nearby bars first (the Fox London Pub, for instance, allows all ages earlier in the evening) and then heading over together after.
Parking/Rideshares Late-Night: If you arrive by car, note that city buses and trains stop around midnight. However, there are city taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Ola, etc.) available downtown late at night (drivers often wait on Lower Hobson or Customs St). Alternatively, there is a free late-night tram (the Inner Link) on a loop through the CBD until after midnight, which can drop you near your hotel. Some guests prefer pre-ordering a ride or staying in a hotel nearby to avoid a late-night drive.
Other Tips: Coat check is available (for a small fee), so you can relinquish bulky jackets. Photography with phones is fine; the vibe is social-media friendly (just be mindful of dancing people). No outside food or drink is permitted – bar staff will politely confiscate outside bottles or unwrapped snacks. Smoking is only allowed outside on the deck. Finally, keep an eye on Pointers or the promoter’s social pages for any last-minute changes (rain doesn’t affect Pointers since it’s indoors, but schedules can shift). With these tips – ID, earplugs, early arrival and some cash – you’ll be all set for a great night at Pointers Bar & Grill!
How many people can Pointers Bar & Grill hold?
Pointers is a relatively small venue. Its capacity is roughly 200 people, making it ideal for intimate dance nights rather than massive festivals (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What types of events are held at Pointers Bar & Grill?
The venue hosts mostly late-night DJ sets and dance parties. Common genres include drum & bass, jungle, house/techno and disco. Monthly Latin dance nights (“La Latina”) are also very popular, as are occasional reggae, hip-hop or themed club nights. On quieter nights you might see quiz nights or student happy hours (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How much do Pointers event tickets usually cost?
Tickets generally range from NZ$10–15 when booked in advance, with door cover about $5–$10 higher. The exact price depends on the act/promoter. For example, many drum-&-bass or Latin parties sell pre-sales around $10–15, and doors typically raise the price by a few dollars (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Where can I buy tickets for Pointers Bar & Grill events?
Tickets are sold online through the event promoters (via sites like Eventbrite or similar) or through the venue’s official social media. You can often find presales via the Facebook or Instagram pages for “Pointers Presents” or other local promoters. If a show isn’t sold out, you can also buy tickets at the door on the night of the event (both cash and card are accepted) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Does Pointers have assigned seating or is it all standing room?
There are no assigned seats at Pointers – it’s largely general admission. The main area is an open dance floor. A few group seating areas exist (notably the concrete pipe “booths” on the side), but most of the crowd stands or dances anywhere on the floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you want a seat, look for a bar stool or booth; otherwise expect to be on your feet.
Where in the venue has the best view or sound?
The sweet spot is usually the main dancefloor right in front of the DJ booth or stage – that’s where the sound system and lights are aimed. It’s loudest there, which is ideal for music fans. For a break from the noise, the concrete booths or the front outdoor deck can be more relaxed, though the DJ might look away so angles can be slightly off. The long bar area still has good sound and is a convenient spot to chat between dances (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How do I get to Pointers using Auckland public transport?
The nearest train and bus hub is Britomart, about 600–700m northeast on Quay Street (a 5-7 minute walk) (www.ticketfairy.com ). City buses on Quay, Fanshawe or Halsey Streets stop nearby; for example, the free CityLink shuttle loops on Halsey/Hobson. From the North Shore or west, bus 020/026 stops at nearby Wynyard Quarter. Taxis and rideshares can be dropped off on Lower Hobson or the Customs St corner. (It’s an easy walk from the Viaduct Harbour or city ferry terminals.)
Is there parking available near Pointers Bar & Grill?
There is no dedicated lot for the venue. Limited street parking is available, but it’s generally expensive and fills up fast. The closest public parking is the Civic Car Park (near Britomart), which is about NZ$2.50 per hour (capped around $12.50 max) (heartofthecity.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other city parking garages are nearby but charge roughly $15–20+ for an evening. Because of this, most people use public transport or rideshare instead of driving.
Is Pointers Bar & Grill wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance is at street level with no steps and the interior floor is flat, so it is wheelchair-friendly (www.ticketfairy.com ). Staff are used to accommodating guests with mobility needs, and accessible toilets are provided. If you have any specific accessibility needs, it’s a good idea to contact the venue or check online for updates, but overall Pointers is considered accessible.
What is the dress code at Pointers Bar & Grill?
The dress code is casual. Most people wear jeans, T-shirts or nightlife attire. There’s no need for formal wear. One thing to note: staff usually enforce a rule against sports jerseys or large baseball caps, as these can block others’ views (www.ticketfairy.com ). Otherwise, wear whatever you feel comfortable dancing in.
Do I need to bring ID, and what age limit is there?
Bring photo ID for sure. The legal drinking age is 18, and Pointers enforces this on weekends. Most late-night events are 18+, so even if a flyer says “all ages,” anyone under 18 will not be served alcohol and is typically not admitted after 10pm. Plan accordingly or enjoy the evening at one of the earlier bars nearby if some of your group is underage.
Does Pointers serve food and what are the food hours?
Yes. The kitchen serves pub-style grill food until around 7:30–8pm. Menu items include burgers, fish & chips, steaks, and share plates (most items under NZ$20). There is often a burger-and-beer special deal around NZ$15 that reviewers have praised (www.ticketfairy.com ). After about 8pm (when the DJs take over), food service ends and only bar snacks are available. If you plan to eat, arrive before 8pm to order.
Is there a coat check or cloakroom at Pointers?
Yes, a staffed coat check (cloakroom) is available inside. You can leave coats or bags there for the night for a small fee. This is especially useful in winter when patrons arrive with jackets before the club heats up.
Are photography and recording allowed inside?
Snapshot photos with your phone are fine and common, but using professional cameras or video gear is usually not allowed without permission. During events, many people take cellphone pictures, so don’t worry about casual photography. Just be aware of those dancing around you and avoid blocking anyone’s view.
When do Pointers events typically start and end?
Doors for late-night club shows generally open around 10–11pm. Headlining DJs or bands usually play late into the night – on weekends, Pointers often stays open until 3–4am. Weeknight social events (like quiz or student nights) start earlier (around 6–8pm) and end by midnight. Check the specific event listing, but plan for late hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
What are the regular opening hours of Pointers Bar & Grill?
Hours vary by night depending on events. Typically, it opens in the afternoon on weekdays (for example, one listing shows Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3pm to 10pm) and extends very late on weekend nights (often until 3–4am Friday and Saturday) (heartofthecity.co.nz ). Sunday and Monday are often closed or limited to special events. For the exact schedule, it’s best to check their social media or local listings on the night you plan to visit.
Is there a VIP section or bottle service available?
Some events do offer a limited number of VIP or bottle-service tables. These are usually handled by the event promoters (e.g. “Pointers Presents” or guest promoters) rather than the bar itself. If you’re interested, look for announcements on the event page or contact the promoter directly. There isn’t a formal VIP lounge, but small table packages can sometimes be arranged for groups.
