About Cassette Nine
Cassette Nine (often called Cassette 9) is a multi-level bar, restaurant and nightclub tucked into historic Vulcan Lane in central Auckland (www.ticketfairy.com ). Housed in one of the older Edwardian-era buildings on the laneway (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ), it has a quirky, retro vibe – think denim and leather on the walls, reclaimed wood decorations and even logs cut into ceiling panels (www.ticketfairy.com ). Since opening in 2008 (www.ticketfairy.com ), Cassette Nine has become an Auckland nightlife institution. Patrons rave about its signature “teapot” cocktails (large jug-style mixed drinks designed for sharing) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and an atmosphere that it proudly calls a home “no matter who you are” (heartofthecity.co.nz ). Over its 15+ year history it has consistently championed diversity – you’ll meet “people of all ages and walks of life – tall or short, gay or straight, black or white, rich or poor” crossing its threshold (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The venue’s capacity is roughly 300 people (www.muzic.nz ), making it intimate enough to feel like a friendly dive bar upstairs or an energetic danceclub downstairs.
Events and Programming
Cassette Nine offers a wildly varied calendar of events. One night you might catch a live local band or popular touring DJ; another might be a theme party or performance night. Weekdays often feature indie or retro dance nights (for example, the long-running “Teenage Kicks” club on Wednesdays) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Weekend nights typically go big with electronic music – house, techno, drum’n’bass, garage, grime and hip-hop DJs are common, and a funk night called “Sick Disco” usually runs on Saturdays (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The venue also hosts drag shows, comedy nights, poetry slams, book clubs and the quirky “Saturday Supermarket” flea-market style sessions (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Special events have included Bollywood-themed dance parties, dinner-theatre pop-ups and even orchestral concerts of hip-hop music. (For example, Cassette Nine’s 16th birthday in 2024 featured a 12-piece orchestra playing Eminem tunes followed by a two-room late-night rave (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Covers range widely – small indie gigs can be free or very low-cost, while bigger parties have tickets typically from about NZD $10 up to $25–30 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Advance online booking is advisable for popular shows, as many events sell out quickly.
Tickets and Booking
There is no walk-up box office at Cassette Nine; all tickets are sold online or through promoters (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue announces events on its website and social media, and ticket buyers are usually directed to third-party ticketing platforms. Popular parties and concerts often go on sale weeks in advance, so check listings early. Smaller events are sometimes advertised as “free entry” or pay-at-door; in those cases you can just arrive and pay in cash or by card at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Advance tickets for main events typically cost NZD $10–30 (birthday or festival events may be more) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s common for larger nights to offer different ticket tiers (e.g. general admission vs VIP or reserved seating) (www.ticketfairy.com ). When attending, keep in mind that doors usually open late (around 8–9pm) and shows run on into the early morning, so arriving at or just before the listed door time is wise. (www.ticketfairy.com )
Seating and Layout
Cassette Nine fills an upstairs bar/restaurant space and a downstairs club area. The upper level is a cozy lounge with bar-height tables, booths and an open-air balcony overlooking Vulcan Lane (www.ticketfairy.com ). This balcony is a popular spot for catching your breath or people-watching between dance sets (www.ticketfairy.com ). The ground floor (and sometimes lower level) serves as the main dance club. It’s mostly open standing room – during big events the club often runs two dance rooms simultaneously (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are a few benches and high tables along the walls, but most people stand on the dance floor for live performances and DJs (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The sound system is a powerful club-grade setup with strong bass, and the acoustics (thick walls, high ceiling) reinforce that club feel (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no fixed reserved or stadium seating. General admission means you may need to arrive early for a prime spot near the stage or DJ booth. On the plus side, even from mid-room the sightlines are generally good – if you’re short you can always step onto the balcony for a clear view of the upstairs bar area and the crowd below.
Getting There and Parking
Cassette Nine’s address is 9 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD . Vulcan Lane is a pedestrian-only alley off Queen Street (between Victoria and Fort streets) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If walking from Britomart Transport Centre, head northwest on Customs Street East and turn onto Fort Street to enter Vulcan Lane – it’s only a 5–10 minute walk (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many city buses also stop on Queen Street just one block south of Vulcan Lane (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Downtown Ferry Terminal (9 Quay Street) is likewise a short stroll north if you’re arriving by ferry (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no dedicated parking at the venue. On-street parking in the CBD is limited (metered pay-and-display on Queen, Victoria and Gore streets) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and Vulcan Lane itself is too narrow for any drop-offs. Pay parking options include Wilson Parking on Quay Street (near Britomart) and several nearby multi-level carparks (for example, the Downtown Plaza or 6 Quay Street carpark) (www.ticketfairy.com ). As affordable late-night parking, the City Council’s Victoria Street carpark offers ~$2.50/hour with an evening cap of around $10 (heartofthecity.co.nz ). Many patrons prefer taxis or rideshares; cars can pull up at the corner of Fort and Queen (the lane entrance) to drop off or pick up.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Cassette Nine, expect a lively, laid-back vibe that blends bar and club elements (www.ticketfairy.com ). Staff will check photo ID at the door on R18 nights, and friendly security keeps the scene safe but fun (www.ticketfairy.com ). The decor is distinctly eclectic – one review notes “denim and leather on walls, cut up tree slices on the ceiling” as part of the funky industrial look【48†L169-L172【】. At the fully stocked bar you’ll find local craft beers on tap and bottled, a wide selection of spirits, plus classics and creative cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ). Of course, samples of those communal “teapot” cocktails (big shared punches) are strongly recommended (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Drink prices are reasonable for Auckland; many visitors are pleasantly surprised that quality cocktails and pints come in at modest prices (www.ticketfairy.com ). The kitchen serves a classic diner/pub menu early in the evening – think gourmet burgers, hot dogs, wings, fries and small plates made with local produce (concreteplayground.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). (On packed dance nights, food service may be limited to bar snacks only.) Restrooms are available on every floor, and there are coat hooks or a small counter near the entrance for your jackets (note: there is no full coat-check service) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The lights go down and colored strobes come on as the night progresses, creating a true nightclub atmosphere. Be aware that the music gets very loud after midnight – portable earplugs are recommended if you’re sensitive to bass (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no public Wi-Fi (most guests use their own mobile data) (www.ticketfairy.com ), but cell reception is generally fine given the downtown location.
Nearby Amenities
Cassette Nine sits in a very walkable part of Auckland, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and hotels just steps away (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). On Vulcan Lane itself there are a few eateries (e.g. Cibo Pizzeria and Four Freedoms cafe) for a quick bite (www.ticketfairy.com ). A block away on Fort Street you’ll find dozens of options – from casual spots like Federal Deli (Argentinian-style) to modern New Zealand cuisine at Turf Dining, plus an upcoming food hall (Keswick Eatery) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For more variety, the Britomart quarter (5–10 minutes’ walk northeast) offers dozens of bars and restaurants: try Depot, Baduzzi or Voyage Kitchen for dinner, or Asian/fusion spots like Siem Reap House and White + Wong’s a short distance north (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you plan to stay late, note that many Britomart and Wynyard Quarter bars remain open after 2am. Hotels within a few blocks include Rendezvous Hotel & Autograph Collection (Fort Street), Wellesley Boutique Hotel, and the SKYCITY Grand Hotel (www.ticketfairy.com ). Budget travelers will find ibis Auckland Central and Atticus Hotel on nearby Queen Street (www.ticketfairy.com ), and Britomart’s train/bus and ferry terminals make onward travel or airport transfers easy.
What Makes This Venue Special
Cassette Nine’s charm lies in its blend of heritage character, creative spirit and community focus. Walker down the stairs of old No.9 Vulcan Lane and you’ll enter an “institution of Auckland” nightlife (heartofthecity.co.nz ). Its interior takes full advantage of the building’s age – you truly feel tucked away in the city, surrounded by eclectic decor and a giant disco ball. Reviewers often mention the venue’s inclusive “home” feeling (heartofthecity.co.nz ): it draws a mixed crowd of locals, visitors and creatives who love that they can “just be themselves” here (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Over the years Cassette Nine has hosted everything from groundbreaking drag bingo nights to stand-up comedy runs, art pop-ups and band residencies, embedding it in many local subcultures. The venue is famous for encouraging new talent (a showcase space for Christchurch acts, indie bands and DJs alike) and for its legendary party ethos – one write-up even called it a “preferred palace of perennial partying” (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). For artists, Cassette Nine offers a sweaty intimate stage with a tight-knit crowd; for punters, it’s a lively late-night escape. It defies simple categories – part dive bar, part diner, part nightclub – which is exactly why both performers and fans love it. Featured drinks (giant teapots), wild décor (jeans as wallpaper, festoon lights), and its reputation as an open-minded, safe(r) space all contribute to Cassette Nine’s unique character. Over its nearly two decades Cassette Nine has become woven into Auckland’s nightlife lore, marked by creative memory-making and trend-setting parties.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Cassette Nine is up a flight of stairs – there is no elevator or ramp at this heritage laneway location. If you use a wheelchair or have mobility issues, make alternative plans (unfortunately the venue is not wheelchair-accessible) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You may wish to contact the club in advance for any special arrangements or to bring a friend to assist. Entry and ID: Most evening events are R18, so you should bring valid photo ID (NZ driver licence or passport) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Occasional family-friendly daytime events may be all-ages, but once past midnight (as per NZ law) everyone must be 18+. Security is friendly but firm – no ID means no entry. Dress Code: The vibe is casual-smart. Patrons typically wear a night-out outfit (jeans and a snazzy top or shirt are popular) (www.ticketfairy.com ). No need for formal attire – suits or dresses aren’t required. On special theme parties you’re encouraged to dress-up for the theme, but otherwise normal clubwear is fine. Avoid beachwear or sports jerseys. Coats & Bags: There is no cloakroom or coat check (www.ticketfairy.com ). Plan to carry your coat or hang it on a hook by your table. Large backpacks or oversized bags are discouraged (security may check for safety). Crowd and Vibe: Arrive early on Fridays/Saturdays if you want a good spot, as lines will form before 8–9pm. The crowd is typically friendly and relaxed – you can leave your cares at the door. Be respectful of others and you’ll fit right in. If you’re sensitive to loud sounds, bring earplugs – the P.A. is loud and bass-heavy late at night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Food & Drink: The kitchen serves substantial eats early on. If you’re hungry, get there by 7pm to enjoy burgers, fries and share plates (concreteplayground.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). After a certain hour, the menu may be limited to snacks only, as it shifts focus to the party. The bar has a great beer and cocktail selection, including famously inexpensive large drinks (ask about the teapot cocktails!). Outside food and alcohol are not permitted. Facilities: Restrooms (toilets and a drinking fountain) are on each level (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cell reception in the CBD is usually good; Cassette Nine does not offer guest Wi-Fi (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cameras: Casual smartphone photos are fine. If you want to bring a big camera, video rig, or professional equipment, contact the club beforehand for permission (www.ticketfairy.com ). Arrival: During large events or sold-out nights, arriving exactly at door time is safest. If you have a table reservation or VIP tix, try to be there 10–15 minutes early (www.ticketfairy.com ). Otherwise, coming right when doors open (often 8–9pm) helps you clear security lines faster and choose the best spot. After midnight the venue often hits full swing; on quieter weeknights you can afford to arrive a bit later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets to Cassette Nine events usually cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. Smaller local shows and indie nights are often free or around NZD $10–15. Bigger club nights and concerts typically charge between NZD $20–30 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Birthday bashes or festivals can be higher. There is often a small surcharge if you buy online, so plan on about 10-20% extra for fees. Advance ticketing is common, and door sales (when offered) may be a bit more expensive.
Where can I buy tickets for Cassette Nine concerts and parties?
Cassette Nine does not have an on-site box office. All tickets are sold online through event promoters or ticketing platforms. To get tickets, look for links on the club’s social media or event listing pages on sites like Eventfinda. For popular events, tickets go on sale well before the show, so it’s best to buy in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ). If an event is advertised as “free entry” or very low cost, you may just be able to pay at the door instead.
What are Cassette Nine’s opening hours?
Cassette Nine is primarily a late-night venue. Typically it is open Tuesday–Saturday evenings, roughly from 8pm into the early hours (often closing around 3–4am) (heartofthecity.co.nz ). It is usually closed on Sundays and Mondays. *Note:* these hours can vary for special events, so always check the specific event listing or the club’s page for any updates.
Where is Cassette Nine located and how do I get there?
Cassette Nine’s address is 9 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD . Vulcan Lane is a pedestrian lane just north of Queen Street (between Wellesley St and Victoria St). From downtown it’s an easy walk: enter Vulcan Lane off Queen or Fort Street and you’ll see No.9 on the right side up the stairs. For public transit, Britomart Transport Centre (train/bus hub) is only about 5–10 minutes’ walk northwest (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many city buses also stop on Queen St one block away (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Tip: when coming by rideshare or taxi, ask to be dropped at Queen/Fort – Vulcan Lane is just behind.)
Is there parking available near Cassette Nine?
The venue itself has no parking lot (Vulcan Lane is pedestrian-only). Street parking in the CBD is scarce and metered (Queen, Victoria and Gore Streets have pay-and-display spots) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Nearby pay parking options include Wilson Parking on Quay Street (near Britomart) and the City Council car park on Victoria Street (around $2.50/hour with an evening cap of about $10) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (heartofthecity.co.nz ). For convenience, many people arrive by taxi or rideshare and get dropped off at the Fort/Queen corner (a short walk from the venue) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is Cassette Nine easily accessible by public transport?
Yes. The Britomart Transport Centre (main train and bus hub) is only a short walk away (www.ticketfairy.com ). From Britomart, head northwest on Customs Street East and turn into Fort Street then into Vulcan Lane. Multiple buses on Queen Street stop within a block of Vulcan Lane (for example, the free CityLink and many cross-town routes) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Auckland Ferry Terminal (9 Quay Street) is also just north on Queen Street if you’re arriving by ferry. Using public transport is often the easiest option, as it drops you right into downtown without worrying about parking.
Does Cassette Nine have reserved seating or VIP areas?
Most nights at Cassette Nine are general admission (standing room) only. However, some special events offer VIP or reserved-table tickets as an upgrade. These VIP tickets guarantee a small table or seating area (often near the stage or DJ) for the night. This is not available for every show, but when offered you’ll see it clearly marked in the ticket options. Otherwise, plan on open dancing or bar-style seating. The upstairs lounge with tables and the balcony is often used by different ticket tiers to get a good party view (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Do I need to bring photo ID to enter Cassette Nine?
Yes, you should bring a valid photo ID (NZ driver licence or passport) on any night you plan to enter Cassette Nine (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because most evening events are 18+, door staff will check ID for age verification. Without valid ID (and being 18 or older), you will not be allowed entry. This is strictly enforced, especially after midnight when New Zealand licensing laws require all venues to refuse entry to minors (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What are the age restrictions at Cassette Nine?
Most Cassette Nine events are restricted to guests 18 and over. Regular club nights and concerts are R18, and you must show ID at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). On occasion, the venue hosts daytime or family-friendly events (for example, cultural festivals or private bookings) that may allow all ages. Always check the specific event details. Note that by law, even an “all-ages” event must stop admitting under-18s after midnight, since bars can only serve over-18s after that time (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there a dress code at Cassette Nine?
There is no strict formal dress code – think casual-smart club wear (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many patrons wear jeans or slacks with a nice top or shirt, or other fashionable night-out clothing – no need for a suit or dress. On special theme nights (if advertised), you’re welcome to dress up to match the theme for fun. In general, avoid wearing sports jerseys, beachwear or overly baggy daytime clothes. When in doubt, smart-casual attire is always safe (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring cameras or record videos at Cassette Nine?
Personal smartphone photos for fun are generally fine. However, any professional camera setup (large DSLR, video camera, tripod, etc.) requires prior approval. Large rigs or flash photography usually need permission from the venue or promoter (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re unsure, contact the club in advance. In short, casual snapshots are OK, but don’t come expecting to film a full concert without permission.
Is Cassette Nine wheelchair accessible?
No, Cassette Nine is not wheelchair accessible. The entrance and main areas are reached by a narrow flight of stairs, and there are no elevators (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you require step-free access, the steps pose a barrier. The management advises anyone with mobility issues to make alternative arrangements. There are accessible restrooms on the upper level, but getting to them requires using the same stairs.
What kind of food and drinks are available at Cassette Nine?
Cassette Nine has a full bar serving Auckland craft beers, spirits and cocktails. Their drink menu is well-stocked – look for local tap beers, international bottled beers, wines and signature cocktails. A highlight is the communal “teapot” cocktail (a large mixed drink meant to be shared) (www.ticketfairy.com ). By early evening, the kitchen offers hearty fare: gourmet burgers, hot dogs, beer-battered wings, fries and small plates made from local ingredients (concreteplayground.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). After about midnight, they may scale back to just bar snacks. Prices are generally reasonable for a city bar. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
Does Cassette Nine provide Wi-Fi or charging stations?
Cassette Nine does not offer free guest Wi-Fi, so you’ll need to rely on your mobile data when inside (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cell reception is usually adequate given the downtown location. As for charging, there are no public charging cabinets: it’s best to charge your phone before you arrive. If your battery is low, try to keep use to a minimum or slip outside (Vulcan Lane) for a few minutes – the venue is small enough that signal often bleeds in.
What is a Cassette Nine “teapot” cocktail?
The famous “teapot” cocktails at Cassette Nine are large mixed drinks served in a literal teapot (or similar jug) for sharing among a group. They come in various fruity, jungle-juice style recipes. When you order one, the server brings a tea pot full of the cocktail syrup plus small shot glasses. You then pour shots from the pot into each glass. These drinks are designed for friends to share (usually 4–6 people) and are a signature novelty of the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What hotels are near Cassette Nine?
Several hotels are within easy walking distance. The Rendezvous Hotel (Fort Street) and Wellesley Boutique Hotel are just around the corner on the same block (www.ticketfairy.com ). The SKYCITY Grand and City (Atrium) Hotels are also very close by (just across Victoria Street). On Queen Street a few blocks south are the Ibis Auckland Central and The Atticus – these are good budget options (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you want a bit more luxury, Britomart’s nearby hotels (like Sofitel or Stamford Plaza) are only 5–10 minutes’ walk away. Public transit hubs are nearby, so it’s convenient whether you drive, train or fly in.
Are children allowed at Cassette Nine?
For most club nights and live music shows, Cassette Nine requires guests to be 18+ (with photo ID) (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, the venue occasionally hosts daytime or early evening events that are family-friendly or all-ages. If the event advertisement doesn’t explicitly say “18+” or “R18,” it may allow minors. In any case, once the clock passes midnight the venue must be treated as R18 only. Always double-check the event listing – if it’s R18 the listing will note it and staff will enforce it at the door.
Does Cassette Nine provide a coat check or lockers?
No, Cassette Nine does not have a full-time coat check or lockers (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are a few wall hooks and a small counter area near the entrance where you can hang a jacket. Many patrons keep coats and bags at their table or bench. The space is not designed for large storage, so it’s best to travel light. If you have bulky items, plan accordingly (for example, consider an external storage service or just hold onto small valuables).
What is the capacity of Cassette Nine?
Cassette Nine can accommodate around 300 people at full capacity (www.muzic.nz ). Because of its layout (two floors and open standing areas), that capacity can feel packed especially downstairs. Plan your visit accordingly – for very popular nights, it’s not uncommon for the venue to reach capacity early in the night.
