About 155b Karangahape Rd
155b Karangahape Road is the underground address for “Neck of the Woods,” a basement bar and live music venue on Auckland’s famous K’Road. Opened around 2015 (www.kiwiaddresshistory.com ), it’s known for a retro-futuristic vibe – reviewers describe the interior as an “‘80s-inspired cave’ with neon lighting and space-themed murals” (www.ticketfairy.com ). The space feels intimate (holding dozens up to a few hundred people (www.ticketfairy.com )) yet high-energy, with two bars, a stage, and tucking in of DJs and dancers on one floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). A small upstairs mezzanine offers a chill-out area, while a hidden outdoor deck (with a living green wall and artwork by Paris Kirby) provides a break from the dance floor (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Overall, Neck of the Woods is a signature K’Road venue that blends live music, nightlife and cutting-edge art (it even runs a monthly local artist poster program (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz )) in an inclusive, “safe & sound” environment (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ). Its impressive sound system, vivid lighting and creative cocktail menu have earned glowing praise on Auckland’s scene (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Neck of the Woods hosts a wide range of late-night events, mostly focusing on DJs and live music. Weekends often feature touring international and local DJs spinning dance, house, techno, drum & bass, and hip-hop. For example, the club has booked UK garage legend DJ EZ and producer Vegyn, as well as veteran rappers like El Da Sensei and Ruste Juxx for special shows (www.ticketfairy.com ). Themed parties are common – one recent event was “No Scrubs: 90s & 00s Party” (nostalgic pop/alt hits) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and there’s an annual Halloween bash (called CHURCH) each year. Outside of music, the flexible space sometimes hosts film or sports screenings (e.g. wrestling events) and private functions, but its heart is the dance floor.
A key draw is the venue’s support for local talent. The weekly “Bassment Local Roll Call” nights showcase dozens of New Zealand DJs in a marathon session (www.ticketfairy.com ). In one recent Bassment event, nineteen local DJs performed across two stages from evening till 2am, giving an eclectic 360° club experience (www.ticketfairy.com ). These all-ages (18+ crowd) nights are very affordable (~NZ$17–25) and focus on letting artists play what they love. In general, ticket prices range from about NZ$20 to $50 (with local DJ nights on the lower end) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue frequently has multiple events each week, especially on Friday and Saturday nights (typically running 10:00pm–4:00am (www.ticketfairy.com )). It’s wise to plan ahead: popular shows can sell out, so watch the “What’s On” listings and book tickets early to avoid disappointment (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
All ticketing is done online through the venue’s official listings or approved promoters (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no traditional box office or walk-up ticket window – buy tickets in advance from the venue’s website or event pages. Most shows use tiered or early-bird pricing, so it pays to subscribe to announcements. Smaller club nights may allow a handful of tickets at the door (usually at the regular price), but headline acts often sell out completely (www.ticketfairy.com ). Typical ticket prices for concerts and dance nights are in the range of NZ$20–50 (www.ticketfairy.com ), with cheap door deals on basic local DJ sets and higher prices for headliners. To get in, simply show your electronic or printed ticket at the door. If you miss the presale, arrive early and ask at the bar or door entry, but don’t count on finding extra tickets on popular nights.
For smaller events or club nights, some promoters also offer guestlists or discounted group bookings. Check the event page for details. Note that a valid ID (passport or driver’s licence) proving you are 18+ is required for entry to every event. The venue enforces strict 18+ and zero-tolerance behavior policies, so follow any rules given by staff (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ).
Seating and Layout
Dance floor & stage: The main area is an open-plan basement. A raised stage at one end hosts DJs and performers, and the rest of the floor is standing-room (no fixed seating). Arrive early to stake out a spot close to the stage. The space can flex up to ~350 people (www.ticketfairy.com ), but each event usually limits capacity for comfort.Bars: Two full-service bars are on site – one typically near the stage at the front and another toward the rear of the floor. This layout means drinks queues are usually split up, so service stays relatively quick even on busy nights.Upstairs lounge: A mezzanine level overlooks the dance floor and provides a quieter resting area (www.ticketfairy.com ). It has couches and tables, perfect for conversation or catching a breather during a long set. The venue likes to say you can “RAVE or relax” here (www.ticketfairy.com ).Outdoor deck: Unusually for a basement club, there’s a small open-air patio below street level. It features a lush green wall of plants and a neon-lit artwork commissioned from local artist Paris Kirby (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Surrounded by a backyard-style fence, this deck is often where smokers or late-night air seekers gather (smoking is only allowed here, not inside).Acoustics and lighting: The club is famed for its powerful sound system that fills every corner with deep bass and clear highs (www.ticketfairy.com ). With lasers, LED walls and neon art everywhere, the visual design makes the entire space feel immersive. (If you’re prone to motion sickness, take breaks in the lounge.) The volume is loud – earplugs are recommended if you plan to be close to the speakers for hours.
Getting There and Parking
Location: 155b Karangahape Road is located in the Newton area of central Auckland, on the southwest side of K’Road between Exmouth and Howe Streets. In mapping apps, it’s often listed as “Neck of the Woods, 155b K’Road, Auckland.” The venue’s entrance is at street level (with signage) before a staircase leading down.
Driving & parking: Street parking on K’Road itself is limited and usually metered (short-term limits). For longer stays, park at a nearby lot. For example, Wilson’s Park has a large public garage at 24 Mercury Lane (enter via Howe St) for about NZ$10/hour (www.karangahaperoad.com ). The Auckland City (AT) lot on Upper Queen St (just around the corner) charges ~$4/hour for the first two hours (www.karangahaperoad.com ). Other AT parking buildings are on Symonds St or Queen St (a 5–10 min walk). If planning to drive, arrive early to secure a spot, and remember K’Road is a one-way street heading west, so plan your route backwards. Rideshare drop-offs and taxi queues are often on Mercury Lane or Exmouth Street near K’Road.
Public transit: Karangahape Road is well-served by buses. The free CityLink (CTY) and InnerLink (INN) loops run right along K’Road (www.aucklandbuses.co.nz ), connecting to Queen Street and Ponsonby respectively. Regular AT buses (routes like 70, 75, 86, etc.) also stop in the block. If using the train, the closest stations are Grafton (Southern/Eastern Line, about a 15 min walk via Symonds St (www.karangahaperoad.com )) and Mt Eden (Eastern Line, ~20 min on foot towards St Kevin’s Arcade (www.karangahaperoad.com )). Note that a new Karangahape Road train station is opening in the near future. For nighttime travel home, rideshares can meet near Mercury Lane or take the CityLink/InnerLink back once it gets dark. Plan ahead for the last train/bus, and consider a taxi or Uber if staying very late.
Inside the Venue
Once inside, Neck of the Woods feels packed with energy. The venue staff enforce the 18+ policy, so expect to have your ID checked by friendly security at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). The main floor will have throbbing speakers and dancers right in front of the stage, while the back and upstairs lounge offer a bit more breathing room. Music is loud and clear (the acclaimed sound system keeps the crowd dancing (www.ticketfairy.com )). The decor is eye-catching: glowing murals, neon signage and mirrored surfaces. Dress comfortably – most guests wear casual club attire or streetwear, and comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to dance all night.
Bar service is efficient and creative. You can pay by credit card or cash at the bars. The in-house menu includes a rotating selection of local craft beers and a mix of classic and signature cocktails (the venue is known for “creative cocktails” with artistic garnishes (www.ticketfairy.com )). There is also hot street-food style fare served all night – think gourmet burgers, fries, tacos, sliders, etc. (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). (No outside food or drink is allowed – all refreshments must be purchased there.) Restrooms are located off the main area and are generally modern and well-kept – some patrons note they’re unusually clean for a nightclub. The raised outdoor deck at the far end of the venue is the only place to smoke; inside it is strictly prohibited. Overall, expect a lively club atmosphere, upbeat crowd, and quick bar service. If you need assistance, any staff member can help – safety is taken seriously here (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ).
Nearby Amenities
The surrounding K’Road neighborhood has everything needed for a great night out. Traditional bars, cafes and restaurants line the street. Dry snacks and food are within an easy stroll: you’ll find Thai, Vietnamese, Indian and burger/pizza/coffee shops on the same block if you want a quick meal beforehand. If time allows, try one of the ethnic eateries 1–2 blocks away or grab a late dinner on Queen Street (about a 10-minute walk down the hill). For drinks before or after the show, spots like Family Bar (just up K’Road) and Thomas George Inn (around Exmouth St) are popular, as is Galatos (a little further northeast) for cocktails.
For lodging, most hotels are downtown or on Symonds/Queen streets. The [Novotel](not-listed) on Queen and the [Cordis](not-listed) on Symonds are about a 10–15 minute walk. Budget hostels and motels also surround the University and K’Road area. When returning late, taxis and rideshares will usually pick up along K’Road or Mercury Lane; Queen Street has taxi stands and all late-night buses. Remember that Karangahape Road can slope and be slippery if wet – wear good shoes and allow a bit of extra time to walk around. In practice, plan to arrive 30+ minutes before showtime to avoid lines. It’s often straightforward to walk or bus to 155b K’Road, but if driving, leave enough time to find parking and navigate crowds.
What Makes This Venue Special
Neck of the Woods stands out on K’Road for offering a high-energy nightclub experience in a surprisingly cozy package. It feels less like a giant arena and more like a close-knit underground party – you’re always near the stage and the DJs, yet there’s plenty of room to dance and mingle. The thoughtful design (neon art and intimately-sized bars) and community focus make it unique. The venue’s commitment to creativity and inclusivity shines through: not only does it showcase a wide range of music, it also highlights local visual artists each month (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ) and enforces a strict anti-harassment policy (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ). Auckland tourism guides even praise its “impressive audio system” and friendly staff, calling it a must-visit on K’Road (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many music fans and DJ artists cite Neck of the Woods as a launching pad for local talent. In short, it’s a club beloved by regulars because it feels like a cultural event as much as a party – a place where both long-time Aucklanders and out-of-towners can dance, discover music, and experience the creative spirit of the inner city (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring your ID: All events are 18+ only. You must show a valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) at the door or you will be turned away (www.ticketfairy.com ).Dress code: There is no formal dress code. Dress smart-casual or clubwear. Comfortable shoes are advised since it’s standing room and dancing. Leave large bags, sports gear or costume weapons at home – small purses/backpacks are fine and may be subject to a quick security check.Allowed items: You may bring a phone or small camera for personal photos, but avoid bulky camera rigs. Outside alcohol, large snacks or any illegal items are not permitted. Smoking is only allowed on the open-air deck outside; it is banned inside by law.Parking: As noted above, street parking is scarce. If driving, plan to use the Mercury Lane or Upper Queen St lots (www.karangahaperoad.com ) (www.karangahaperoad.com ). If you plan to drink, public transit or a ride-share is recommended. (Nearby taxi stands are on Queen St or Mercury Lane.)Public transport: The free CityLink (CTY) and InnerLink (INN) buses run up and down K’Road (www.aucklandbuses.co.nz ), even late at night, making access easy. Other frequent buses (routes 70, 75, etc.) also serve K’Road. As mentioned, Grafton (15 min walk) and Mt Eden (20 min) are the closest train stations (www.karangahaperoad.com ).Arrive early: Doors typically open 10pm; DJs start playing soon after. If you have tickets, arrive around opening time or up to an hour early to secure a good spot. Lines can form on busy nights, so allow extra time. If you arrive late, you may have to wait to get in.Stay safe and respectful: The staff enforce a friendly, inclusive atmosphere (www.neckofthewoods.co.nz ). Don’t block walkways with phones/sticks when filming. Treat others with respect. If you feel unsafe or see trouble, notify security or staff immediately. Leaving valuables behind is discouraged due to crowds.
What type of venue is located at 155b Karangahape Road?
155b Karangahape Road is the site of Neck of the Woods , a popular underground bar and music venue on Auckland’s Karangahape Road. It functions as a nightclub, live-music venue and late-night eatery. Since opening around 2015 (www.kiwiaddresshistory.com ), it has been known for DJ sets, dance parties and gallery-style art installations, offering an intimate, high-energy club experience.
What is the capacity of this venue?
Neck of the Woods is relatively compact for a city nightclub. The flexible layout can accommodate roughly a few dozen up to a few hundred guests. In fact, with moveable walls opened fully, it can fit about 20–350 people in total (www.ticketfairy.com ). On most nights, the main dance floor is set for a couple hundred at most, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not overwhelming.
How do I buy tickets, and can I buy at the door?
All tickets are sold online through the venue’s official listing or authorized outlets (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no walk-up ticket booth. You should purchase tickets in advance via the Neck of the Woods website or event promoters. Some smaller club nights may sell a limited number of tickets at the door, but for popular shows it’s safer to buy ahead. Once tickets are sold out online, door sales typically cease.
How much do tickets usually cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. Simple local DJ nights often cost about NZ$15–25, while larger headliner shows or themed parties can range NZ$20–50 (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Very big international acts or multi-night events might be higher.) Early-bird or pre-sale discounted tickets are sometimes offered. Overall, expect most events to fall in the NZ$20–50 range in total cost (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What time do events at the venue typically start and finish?
Restaurant and special events may have varied hours, but most dance parties start late at night. On weekends, doors usually open around 10:00pm and events run into the early morning (often until 3–4am) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you have a particular showtime in mind, check the official schedule, but plan as if prime party hours are 10pm–4am. Arrive close to the start time for full effect.
Is there an age restriction or dress code for entry?
Yes. All patrons must be 18 or older to enter neck of the Woods (strictly enforced). Bring a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) proving your age. There is no formal dress code beyond typical nightclub attire – casual, tidy clothing and comfortable shoes are fine. Some themed nights may encourage fancy dress, but otherwise regular clubwear is expected. Avoid sportswear or offensive graphics out of respect for other guests.
Does Neck of the Woods have assigned seating or is it general admission?
It is general admission throughout. There are no fixed seats on the main floor – everyone stands or dances in the open area. The upstairs lounge has some couches and stools, but it’s first-come seating only (no reserved tables). If you want to stand near the stage, arrive early, but you can move around during the show. All ticket holders have equal access to the floor or lounge.
Are food and drinks available at the venue?
Yes. Neck of the Woods has a full-service bar offering a range of beers, ciders, wines and creative cocktails, as well as soft drinks. In addition, a “world street food” kitchen operates all night (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). You can grab snacks like gourmet fries, tacos, sliders or other late-night bites without leaving the club. All refreshments must be purchased there (no BYO or outside food/drink is allowed). Payment by cash or card is accepted at the bar.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. By New Zealand law, smoking (including e-cigarettes/vaping) is prohibited indoors. Neck of the Woods provides a designated smoking area: a small outdoor deck off the main space (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). You must step outside to smoke; it is not allowed inside the club itself.
Can I take photos or videos inside the club?
Personal photography is generally allowed as long as it’s not disruptive. Using your phone or a small camera for snapshots is fine, but large professional cameras, tripods or selfie sticks could be restricted at the door. Avoid flashing bright lights or obstructing others’ view. If you plan to film, ask staff first. This space is about keeping a good vibe, so respect others’ privacy and enjoy the show.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately it is not fully wheelchair accessible. The entry involves a staircase down to the basement with outdoor stairs by design. There are no ramps or elevators. If mobility is an issue, it would be very difficult to enter and move around safely. The venue staff strive to be helpful, but physically the space can only be navigated via multiple steps (even the outdoor deck is reached by stairs). Contact the venue directly if you require special accommodations.
Where can I park when I visit the venue?
Parking on Karangahape Road itself is scarce. For nearby lots, consider Wilson Parking at 24 Mercury Lane (inside the Mercury Markets building) which typically charges around NZ$10/hour (www.karangahaperoad.com ). Another option is the AT-controlled building at 20 Upper Queen Street for about $4 per hour (first 2 hours) (www.karangahaperoad.com ). If those fill, try other city parking (Symonds/Queen St) and walk. On match nights or weekends, parking can be very limited, so public transit or taxis are recommended.
What public transport options are near the venue?
Karangahape Road is well served by buses. The free CityLink (CTY) and InnerLink (INN) routes both stop along K’Road (www.aucklandbuses.co.nz ). Other frequent buses (e.g. route 70, 75) also run nearby. For trains, the Grafton Station (Southern/Eastern Line) is roughly a 15-minute walk via Symonds St, and Mt Eden Station (Eastern Line) is about 20 minutes away by foot (www.karangahaperoad.com ). Use AT’s journey planner or Google Maps for exact route planning. Note that after midnight public transit is less frequent, so plan ahead.
Is there free Wi-Fi or phone charging available?
The venue does not advertise a public Wi-Fi network or charging stations. Mobile phone signal may be weak in the underground areas, so assume no connectivity. It’s best to charge your phone before arriving or use any portable battery packs if needed.
Does the venue have a coat check or storage lockers?
There is no formal coat check or locker service advertised at Neck of the Woods. On cooler nights, you may be allowed to hang a coat at the entrance, but space is very limited. It’s recommended to bring as little as possible – small bags or purses only. Always keep personal items with you in the crowd rather than leaving them unattended.
What are the “Bassment” nights at this venue?
“Bassment” nights are a regular event series dedicated to local DJs and producers. The idea is to create a communal club night for Auckland talent. One Bassment party recently featured 19 New Zealand DJs playing across two stages from early evening till late (www.ticketfairy.com ). These nights are usually themed around underground electronic genres and are priced affordably (often below $25). Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of homegrown techno, D&B, drumstep and other bass music in an intimate setting.
