About Ash Hills
Ash Hills is a local bar and entertainment venue located at 78 Tancred Street in Ashburton, Canterbury, New Zealand . It occupies a central Ashburton address and is housed in a two-part commercial building that was described by a recent real estate listing as “already fitted out for a bar and restaurant” . In effect, Ash Hills offers a pub-style experience – with bar service, stools, tables and gaming machines – coupled with nightclub events and a secondary function room . According to local listings, Ash Hills features multiple “pokies” (slot machines); one review notes the venue “has 7 machines” on-site . The venue has earned excellent visitor ratings (5 out of 5 by 11 reviewers on a local guide) , suggesting a friendly small-town pub vibe. While it is not an historic landmark per se, Ash Hills has become notable in recent years for being one of the few dedicated late-night venues in Ashburton. It caters to locals and visitors looking for live DJs, dance music, or just a night out with friends. (Note that a commercial listing in Oct 2024 indicated the space was on the market for lease – be sure to check if the venue is currently open or under new management before planning a visit.)
Events and Programming
Ash Hills hosts a variety of nightlife events alongside its regular bar hours. In particular, electronic music club nights have been a staple. For example, a series of “SHIFT” drum-and-bass parties took place at Ash Hills throughout 2023; local promoters brought in DJs (with names like Camo MC, FZA, ATK, etc.) and even road-tested a professional soundsystem (the Aotea system) for those shows www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . These club nights (often tagged as SHIFT Ashburton) were 18+ events, typically on Friday nights around 9pm. Ticket listings for 2023 show at least four past shows (April, June, August 2023) promoting Ash Hills as the venue www.ticketfairy.com . Besides electronic/DNB nights, Ash Hills also runs more casual pub events on other days. While there is no publicly listed concert calendar, one can expect occasional themed nights, DJ sets, sports-viewing evenings (via big screens behind the bar), and mix-and-mingle promotions. The crowd is usually local or from nearby towns in Mid Canterbury. Prices for club events vary but have historically been modest (often under NZ$20 pre-sale). General admission typically implies no reserved seating. On a normal night without a special event, entry is free and you simply buy drinks at the bar or play the pokies. Visitors have praised the atmosphere at Ash Hills for being relaxed yet lively .
Tickets and Booking
Ash Hills generally operates as a walk-in venue rather than a seated theatre, so for most evenings you do not need tickets in advance. For big club nights or special concerts, however, tickets may be sold by event promoters. Typically, Ash Hills events are advertised on social media or event sites (e.g., through local promoters or music collectives). When shows are announced, seats or spots are usually general admission standing room. In practice, tickets have been handled through online sellers or at-the-door sales. For example, the SHIFT club nights were “sold out” online before the events www.ticketfairy.com . No formal box office exists on-site; instead, you’d sign up on an event page and purchase e-tickets from the promoter or bring printed tickets to the door. Working tickets or table packages (if any) tend to be basic – often just “first come, first served” admission. To secure a spot for a popular show, it’s savvy to follow the venue’s or promoters’ announcements, book early, and arrive before doors open. Prices mentioned by attendees suggest early bird or presale tickets in the teens (NZD), though door prices might be a bit higher. For everyday evenings, simply drop by and pay at the bar – there’s no cover charge unless a specific event is advertised.
Seating and Layout
Ash Hills features an open-plan layout typical of pubs with an entertainment twist. The main floor has a bar counter along one wall and scattered tables and stools around a central dance/floor area. Because the venue footprint is only about 173 m² , it feels compact and intimate. When DJs are on, one corner or side usually hosts the sound system and lighting rig, making the rest just standing/dancing space. There is also a smaller, separate “function” back room (as noted in the venue’s listing) – this might be used for VIPs, private parties or overflow on busy nights. In general, there are no fixed theatre seats; you can grab any stool or lean against the wall if you want a rest. The best viewing spots depend on your preference: near the front by the DJ/stage area gives the best view of DJs and dancers, but that space is loud. A more relaxed option is seating or standing at the sides or back of the floor – you can still see everything and have easier access to the bar. If Ash Hills is being used as a club, expect dimmed coloured lights and thumping bass (the club promoter even brought in a custom Aotea sound rig for big nights www.ticketfairy.com ). Acoustically, it’s just a concrete/brick indoor space, so sound is energetic but not concert-hall refined. Avoid standing too close to the main speakers if you’re sensitive to loud music. In short, the layout is straightforward: one open room with bar and dance area, plus a small separate room in the back.
Getting There and Parking
Ash Hills is in the heart of Ashburton city. Its exact address is 78 Tancred Street (postcode 7700) . Tancred Street is one block south of Burnett Street (the main commercial thoroughfare) and runs parallel to Cass Street. If driving, you’d typically reach Ashburton via State Highway 1 (taking the exit for Ashburton town). From the north or south on SH1, follow signs for the town centre and head toward the junction of Cass and Cameron Streets. Tancred is just a block over. Parking in central Ashburton is mostly metered street parking or pay lots. There is some free 15–30 minute street parking on side roads, but for longer stays you’ll want a car park. A convenient option is the Wilson Parking lot at 147–149 Cameron Street (just two blocks northwest of Tancred) – it allows public parking at about NZ$1.50 per hour . Additionally, there are council-operated carparks on Cass Street and Burnett Street a few blocks away, and on Cameron Street opposite the courthouse. Most central carparks are paid via Pay and Display machines. Note that street construction has affected Tancred in past years, so look for updated signage or temporary traffic arrangements (the council has upgraded Tancred and Burnett streets recently).
For public transit, Ashburton doesn’t have a train station – it’s a small city. Local buses (operated by Ritchies) serve the town on weekdays, and they stop near the center (Burnett/Cass area). If you’re coming by taxi or rideshare (Uber services are limited in Ashburton, so plan to book a local taxi), drop-off is easy at Tancred near the Dunford Street intersection. Ashburton’s airport (Raukapuka) is 15 km west, but there are no shuttle services from the city (flyers typically book charter flights). In practice, most locals simply drive or carpool. In summary: Ash Hills is an inner-city location with ample street parking nearby and easy access for drivers; the taxi rank is on East Street (near Burnett & Cass) which is about a 5-minute walk.
Inside the Venue
Stepping into Ash Hills, expect a classic Kiwi pub atmosphere blended with nightclub energy. Upon entry you’ll see the wooden bar counter, cozy seating nooks, and walls possibly decorated with local memorabilia or liquor-brand posters. If it’s a club night, the lighting will be low with colourful spotlights, and a DJ booth or small stage may be set up at one end. Security is typically friendly but vigilant: staff will check IDs at the door (especially on event nights), since alcohol and gaming-machines require an over-18 age limit. A current NZ driver license or passport is sufficient ID (NZ bars have a legal duty to check ID if anyone looks under 25).
The bar serves a range of drinks – standard NZ beers on tap, ciders, wines and cocktails, along with non-alcoholic sodas. Prices are modest for a pub; expect local beer pints below NZ$10. (Payment by card is widely accepted at the bar, but it’s wise to have some cash for quick bar tabs or the pokies. Also, note there are no ATMs inside, so use one nearby if needed.) Food offerings are limited – this venue is first and foremost a bar, not a gourmet dining spot. There may be a small snack menu (like fries or share platters) but the emphasis is on drinks and music.
Despite a big bar, there is no formal coat check. Put coats on empty chairs or hooks by the wall. Restrooms are typically down a short corridor; keep an eye out for them on your way in. If you want to mingle, the dancefloor opens up quickly when music starts. The staff often roll out drink specials or happy hour deals early in the evening, so watch for a chalkboard by the bar.
One more practical feature: since Ash Hills doubles as a gaming lounge, they have a small bank of poker machines. (Remember, gambling is legal here and 18+, so check your limit.) Also, Wi-Fi is not guaranteed (some local venues have free Wi-Fi, but many do not), so don’t count on a strong signal. Expect the atmosphere to be casual and social – customers often chat with the bartender or join group sing-alongs if someone roars out a tune on the mic. Merchandise (like T-shirts or swag) is unlikely stocked. The overall beat is friendly Kiwi banter by day, and energetic dance-through-the-night vibes when the DJs spin.
Nearby Amenities
Ash Hills sits amid Ashburton’s small but vibrant city centre. For dinner before a show, there are plenty of options. On the same block, Kelly’s Cafe & Bar (just down Tancred toward Cass Street) offers pub classics and local craft beers in a relaxed setting. A couple of blocks away on Cass Street, Cleavers Corner Pub is a popular gastro pub with hearty meals and wood-paneled charm ; locals rave about its fish-and-chips and steak. The Phat Duck Brew Bar on Tancred (near its corner with East Street) is also a local brewpub known for house-brewed ales. If you want a quick coffee or light bite, several cafes cluster along Cass and Wills Streets during the day.
For drinks and nightlife, Ash Hills is part of a handful of late-night venues – Speight’s Ale House across town (at Tower Junction) is spacious and open late on weekends, and The Hotel Ashburton in town can have a late-night lounge vibe. Directly behind Ash Hills on Tancred Street, there is a 24-hour bottle shop (“bottle store” in NZ) for picking up wine or takeaways.
As for accommodations, several motels and hotels are within a short drive. The Suites Ashburton and Bella Vista Motel are just minutes south on Wills St, while Vintage Manor Motel and Ashburton Motor Lodge are a similarly short distance on East St. Even a quick 5–10 minute walk can reach motel options. Many out-of-town gig-goers stay overnight when coming for big events. If planning, booking at The Suites or the centrally-located hotel is smart as they get high ratings for comfort and location .
When arriving early or leaving late, note that most food trucks and restaurants in Ashburton close by 9pm. A few takeaway spots (fish and chips, burger vans) remain open later on weekends if you need a late snack. Taxis are sparse late at night, so plan your ride home in advance. (There are local taxi companies like City Cabs & Ritchies; they recommend bookings in advance rather than flagging down a cab.) If you’re driving, the council advises checking for temporary street changes: Tancred and Burnett have undergone upgrades, so keep an eye on traffic notices. Overall, Ashburton’s town centre amenities – dining, parking, hotels, and transport – are all conveniently located within walking distance or a very short drive from Ash Hills.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets Ash Hills apart is its unique blend of pub culture with club energy, all in a friendly small-town setting. Unlike larger cities, Ashburton has relatively few nightlife spots, so Ash Hills has earned a reputation as “the place” to be for live DJs and social nights out. Its interior is warm and wooden (recalling classic NZ pubs), but it was recently upgraded with modern sound and lights for dance events www.ticketfairy.com . In practice, this means you can enjoy quality drinks at the bar and then stay put for a party instead of hopping town to town. One local concert promoter even praised Ash Hills for bringing the same Aotea professional sound system to Ashburton shows that they normally use in Christchurch www.ticketfairy.com – a sign that the venue can handle big bass-heavy nights.
Ash Hills also taps into local culture; the name itself echoes the surrounding high country (“Ashburton’s foothills”), and the clientele are down-to-earth Mid Canterbury folk. Legendary moments are mostly local: for instance, when home DJs or bands play to a packed Ashhle crowd, it feels electric simply because of the rarity. It's common to hear stories of impromptu live covers, classic Kiwi rock anthems blaring on jukebox interludes, or friendly bartenders joining in an impromptu singalong.
✨ Both artists and audiences appreciate Ash Hills because it’s adaptive – on any given night it could be a chill sports viewing spot, a pub quiz host, or a full-on rave. The staff often get special shoutouts in reviews for being welcoming and supportive of music events, which helps performers feel at ease and audience members feel at home . In a sense, Ash Hills matters to the local scene simply by existing: for Mid Canterbury’s music lovers, it’s one of only a couple places that can host really loud, live entertainment legally and safely. The presence of pokies also means it doubles as social clubbing central (no other bar in Ashburton does both live DJs and gambling). That quirky mix – pokies in the corner and DJs on the deck – is what makes this venue stand out in Ashburton.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is on street level, so wheelchair users can enter through the main doorway (though doorways may be narrow and the floor can get crowded). Check ahead for special accessibility needs; the building is older but was reported to be structurally upgraded . Restrooms have at least one wheelchair-accessible stall as required by NZ law, but it may be tight.
What to bring: Always have your photo ID if you're out after dark – bartenders will ask for proof of age (especially if you say you were born after 1998!). Cash or card is fine, but some people prefer cash for the pokies (not all machines take cards). Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to dance. The weather in Ashburton can be cold in winter, so wear layers; while the inside is heated, you may have to walk a bit outside to get into side rooms or for smoking breaks (NZ law prohibits indoor smoking). Bring a sweater or jacket to go outside between dance sets.
Dress code: Very casual – think smart jeans/pant & top. Some people dress up on big event nights, but the vibe is not formal. Do avoid flip-flops if dancing.
Age restrictions: Strictly 18+, due to the bar liquor licence and gaming consent. Under-18s are not allowed at any time (even with parents) once evening is in full swing. For early-evening kids-family events (if ever held), the venue would advertise specifically.
Photo policy: Basic photography is okay – use your phone or small camera. However, professional recording or flash photography is not permitted on dance nights (it disrupts performers and others). The staff may ask you to stop filming friends or performers for privacy reasons.
Mistakes to avoid: Don’t leave personal items unattended on tables (crowded spots can lead to mix-ups). Bar staff handle drinks quickly, so keep an eye on your orders. Also, avoid the temptation to fight the pokies – set a limit beforehand. Lastly, Ashburton being a small town, be respectful – excessive rowdiness can get you barred.
Insider tips: Check if happy hour is on when you arrive (some say early evenings have drink specials). The dance floor gets emptyer right before midnight; often, late-night revellers come after 9pm. If you want to chat, the seating along the side is quieter. And if attending an event, arrive 30 minutes before the DJ set for best footing.
In short, Ash Hills promises a friendly, unpretentious night out. By being prepared with a bit of cash/ID and a group of mates, visitors can fully enjoy what makes this place uniquely local and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the capacity of Ash Hills?
Ash Hills is a modest-sized venue (around 173 m² footprint ). It likely accommodates roughly 100–150 people, depending on layout and local regulations. Since there’s substantial open space and only scattered seating, capacity is primarily standing room on busy nights. It's not a huge club, so big events may feel close-packed. Always check with the venue or promoter if you need exact numbers for special occasions.
Are there regular events at Ash Hills?
Yes. Besides normal Friday–Sunday bar hours, Ash Hills often hosts themed nights and club events. In recent years, Ash Hills was the site of the “SHIFT Ashburton” drum-&-bass parties (around April–August 2023) www.ticketfairy.com . They also see occasional DJ nights, karaoke or pub quizzes. However, schedules vary month-to-month. The best way to find events is to watch local event listings or the venue’s announcements. Usually, big events fill the weekend slots, while weekday nights are quieter with drinks and socialising.
How much are drinks and tickets?
Drink prices at Ash Hills are in line with other Ashburton pubs. Pints of local beer are typically under NZ$10; cocktails and spirits range higher. As for tickets, there is no fee for just entering the bar on non-event nights. For special concerts or club shows, ticket prices vary by event. Past examples (like the SHIFT nights) were roughly in the NZ$10–$20 range for advance tickets. Always check the event’s price when booking. If in doubt, ask the venue or promoter – they’ll usually list exact pricing once a show is announced.
What’s the dress code at Ash Hills?
Ash Hills is very casual. It’s a pub/club atmosphere, so feel free to dress down. Jeans and a tee or casual shirt are perfectly fine. Some people spice up their outfit for club nights, but you don’t need anything formal. Just avoid flip-flops if you plan to dance (sneakers or casual shoes are a good idea). In cooler weather, bring a layer – the venue can get warm with people dancing, but the street can be chilly when entering or exiting.
Is Ash Hills wheelchair accessible?
The venue is on ground level with no large steps at the main entrance, so wheelchair users can enter inside. Inside space is fairly open, but it can get cramped on busy nights. Check before you go for specific needs: the latest building listing noted it’s been strengthened (seismically) , but didn't detail ramps. It’s best to phone ahead or ask staff about wheelchair access. Restrooms include at least one accessible stall, as per NZ standards, but the overall space is compact.
How do I get to Ash Hills by public transport?
Ashburton has a limited public transit system. Ritchies runs a town bus service, but schedules are weekday-only and stop near the city centre (Cass/Burnett Street area). From the bus stop closest to downtown, Ash Hills is a few-minute walk (down Burnett Street, turn onto Tancred). There is no train station, and no regular shuttle from Christchurch since 2023. If you’re coming from Christchurch or other towns, you’ll mostly rely on cars or a Friday-Sunday shuttle service. For late-night travel, taxis or ride-share should be booked in advance as availability is spotty after midnight.
Where can I park near Ash Hills and how much does it cost?
There’s some street parking on Tancred and nearby streets. Look for pay-and-display machines – most city centre parking is metered. A good option is the public carpark at 147–149 Cameron Street (two blocks up Cameron from Tancred), which charges about NZ$1.50 per hour . Some council carparks on Cass and Cameron Streets allow 2–3 hours free (check signs). Avoid parking over 3 hours in metered zones unless you’re prepared to pay. Always check current signage – the city recently updated parking limits.
Are children or minors allowed into Ash Hills?
No, Ash Hills is strictly an 18+ venue at all times. Because of the liquor licence and slot machines (“pokies”), no one under 18 is permitted entry. Even if an event is family-friendly earlier in the evening, by late afternoon it becomes 18+. Do not bring minors expecting them to stay – venue security will check IDs. If you have younger kids, they’ll need to stay home.
Is there a coat check or locker at Ash Hills?
No official cloakroom or lockers. Typical practice is to drape coats or bags over a chair or keep them with your group. If you have valuables, keep them on your person or under your seat. The staff cannot securely store belongings, so prepare to keep your items by you. The venue can get crowded, so just be mindful of your space. If it’s cold outside, there may be a rack or hooks by the entrance for wet coats, but don’t rely on it for valuables.
What is the policy on food? Can I bring snacks or order in?
Ash Hills is primarily a bar, so outside food is discouraged. They likely offer basic bar snacks (chips, nuts, etc.), and sometimes a simple menu like burgers or pizzas, but they are not a full restaurant. For a big appetite, it’s better to eat before coming (nearby cafes and pubs are open earlier). Delivery or ordering in is uncommon – the staff may not have space to handle deliveries. In short, enjoy drinks here, but have meals elsewhere in town.
Can I record videos or take professional photos during events?
For personal phone photos/videos, it’s usually fine (common practice for social media selfies, etc.). However, professional cameras or bright flash can disturb others, and some performers prefer privacy. If you plan serious photography or video recording, check with the promoter first. For typical patrons, casual phone photos are allowed as long as they don’t bother other guests or flash directly into people’s faces.
Are there any memorable historical events at Ash Hills?
Not in the traditional historic sense – Ash Hills is a relatively new venue without century-old heritage. Its significance is more cultural than historic. Memories here are about local gigs, DJ sets, and community nights. Longtime Ashburton residents might recall how the space revitalized the Tancred Street area, or how it became the go-to spot for younger adults in town. But there are no famous concerts, albums recorded, or political events tied to Ash Hills like you might find in an older city venue.
