Events at 340 Karangahape Rd, Auckland

About 340 Karangahape Rd

Located in Auckland’s vibrant Karangahape Road precinct, 340 Karangahape Rd is home to the iconic Studio The Venue. This multi-level live entertainment venue has a capacity of around 1,000 people, making it one of the city’s premier mid-sized concert halls and nightclubs. The venue is notable not just for its size, but for its rich history and character. Housed in a building originally opened in 1914 and remodelled in Art Deco style in 1939 (when it was known as the Vogue Theatre), the site has been a cornerstone of Auckland’s entertainment scene for generations. Over the decades it hosted everything from cinema to legendary nightclubs – including a famous 1990s club – before being reborn as Studio The Venue in 2008. Today, it seamlessly blends historic charm with modern production technology, offering state-of-the-art sound and lighting within old theatre walls. The result is a unique atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate, drawing music lovers, artists, and party-goers alike. Studio The Venue’s significance to the local scene cannot be overstated: it’s a place where Auckland’s live music culture thrives, and where memories have been made for over 15 years. When you step into 340 Karangahape Rd, you’re not just entering any venue – you’re walking into a living piece of the city’s entertainment history, updated for the 21st century.

Events and Programming

As a live music and events hub, 340 Karangahape Rd hosts a diverse calendar of performances. Studio The Venue is active year-round with concerts, club nights, and special events spanning many genres. You can expect to see international touring artists, local bands, and themed dance parties all sharing the stage here. In recent years the venue has welcomed everything from rock legends and punk icons to EDM DJs and hip-hop acts. For example, fans have packed Studio to see 80s new-wave pioneer Gary Numan, punk rock icons like the Buzzcocks, indie and alternative bands such as Big Country and Dinosaur Jr., and classic hip-hop groups like Naughty by Nature. The venue is also a favourite for New Zealand acts – hosting gigs by local hip-hop collective SWIDT, reggae tribute nights honouring bands like House of Shem, and high-energy drum and bass events that draw crowds of devoted fans. This wide range of programming means there’s often something for everyone: one week you might find a metal or punk gig, the next a cutting-edge electronic music rave or an indie rock showcase. Many club night brands and promoters choose Studio for its atmosphere – for instance, it has been home to famous club nights (even global brands like Ministry of Sound tours have stopped here), as well as pop-culture themed parties and multi-act mini-festivals. Events typically take place on weekends or evenings, though schedules vary with each touring cycle. Check the upcoming event listings to see what’s on – new shows are announced frequently, especially as tours come through Auckland.

The frequency of events at 340 Karangahape Rd keeps Auckland’s nightlife buzzing. On a busy month, you might find multiple shows each week. Some are one-off concerts by international artists on tour, while others are recurring club nights or annual events. The venue’s programming leans towards high-energy and immersive experiences: expect loud, passionate crowds and performers who feed off that energy. Ticket prices depend on the event – smaller local gigs or club nights can be quite affordable (often in the NZ$20–$40 range), whereas international acts and special festivals might range from around NZ$50 up to NZ$100 for premium options. Despite the variety of genres, one thing is consistent: the atmosphere. Studio The Venue is known for its “pumping” vibe and passionate fans. Whether it’s a mosh pit at a rock show or a sea of dancing bodies during a DJ set, the crowd engagement is part of the experience. Many shows are general admission standing, which encourages people to move around and get into the music. It’s a venue where both artists and audiences often say they feel a special connection – performers frequently comment on how lively and close-up the crowd is, creating memorable nights. If you’re planning to attend an event here, be ready for an authentic live entertainment experience that captures the heart of Auckland’s music scene.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for events at 340 Karangahape Rd are typically sold online in advance, and it’s wise to secure yours early for popular shows. Studio The Venue partners with authorised ticketing platforms and also sometimes sells tickets through its own website or on-site system. The best approach is to follow the event listings (either via the venue’s official channels or reputable ticket outlets) and purchase as soon as sales open – high-demand gigs can sell out quickly given the circa-1000 person capacity. Prices will vary by event and artist, but you can usually find information on pricing tiers (for example, early-bird tickets vs general admission, or VIP packages if offered) before booking. For many club nights, discounted early-bird or presale tickets are available online, with a higher price for final release or door sales.

There is no permanent daytime box office at 340 Karangahape Rd, but if an event isn’t sold out you can often buy tickets at the door when doors open. Door sales are usually cashless (credit/debit cards are widely accepted) and operate on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. If you’ve bought a ticket online, you can either print it out or show the e-ticket barcode on your mobile phone at entry; the staff will scan it upon arrival. For some bigger events, organisers may set up a “will-call” or ticket pick-up desk in the foyer for collecting pre-purchased tickets or guest passes. It’s a good idea to bring photo ID and the credit card used for purchase, just in case verification is needed. Remember that almost all events at Studio The Venue are strictly R18 (18+ only), so entry will require proof of age even if you have a ticket – make sure everyone in your group meets the age restriction, as no refunds are given for being underage. In summary, plan ahead: buy tickets early if possible, keep an eye on official announcements for on-sale dates, and arrive with the necessary ID and payment method to ensure a smooth entry on the night of the show.

Seating and Layout

Studio The Venue at 340 Karangahape Rd has a distinctive multi-level layout that offers several viewing experiences. The venue is essentially an open concert hall with three levels for the audience: a ground floor (main standing area in front of the stage) and two additional balcony levels above. All levels are generally open during major events, and each level features its own bar and vantage points. The ground floor is where you’ll find the stage and the most immersive experience – this is the place to be if you want to be right up close to the performers and don’t mind being in the thick of the crowd. During sold-out shows, the floor area can get very packed and energetic, effectively becoming a sea of people dancing or moshing directly in front of the stage. Because the stage is elevated, even those a bit further back on the ground level can see the performers, but shorter attendees might prefer moving towards the sides or the back where it’s slightly raised, or heading upstairs for a clearer view.

The first and second balcony levels (often referred to as the mezzanine and upper balcony) wrap around the perimeter, giving a bird’s-eye view of the stage and dance floor. These levels are fantastic for those who want a bit more space or a different perspective. You can look down on the performance and observe the crowd energy from above, which many people enjoy. The sightlines from the balconies are generally very good – the venue was originally a theatre, and the design ensures you aren’t stuck behind awkward pillars or walls. In fact, most areas of the venue offer a decent view of the stage thanks to the open layout. There are even some cushioned seating or VIP booth areas on the upper levels during certain events. VIP ticket holders or guests often have access to reserved sections upstairs with comfortable seating and an exclusive bar, allowing a more relaxed experience while still having a great view of the show.

When choosing where to stand or sit, consider the type of event and your personal preference. For a high-energy DJ night or rock gig where you plan to dance or be part of the mosh pit, the ground floor is ideal – just arrive early if you want to claim a spot near the front of the stage. If you prefer a bit of personal space or want to avoid the crush of the crowd, the balconies are the place to be. You can typically move between levels (unless a particular area is sectioned off for VIP), so some attendees start on the floor and then head upstairs later in the night to cool off and watch from above. Acoustically, the venue has been praised for its sound quality; the sound system is tuned to deliver strong, clear audio to every level. Bass and beats carry well through the whole space, and you’ll feel the music whether you’re right in front of the speakers or up in the rafters. One thing to note is that in a sold-out event, the lower floor will become very crowded – if that’s uncomfortable, stake out a spot on an upper level early on. Conversely, if the show isn’t at full capacity, feel free to roam around to find your perfect spot. There’s no assigned seating, so the experience is very much choose-your-own. Many regulars will tell you that some of the best views are from the front of the first balcony, where you can lean on the railing and have an unobstructed view of the entire stage and crowd. No matter where you end up, you’ll be surrounded by fellow fans and the venue’s dynamic lighting and laser effects ensure even those further from the stage still feel part of the action.

Getting There and Parking

Reaching 340 Karangahape Rd is easy given its central Auckland location. Karangahape Road (often called “K’ Road” by locals) is a well-known street in the city centre, situated on the ridge between downtown Auckland and the suburb of Ponsonby. Studio The Venue is roughly in the middle of K’ Road’s entertainment strip, making it accessible by multiple transport options. If you’re coming by public transport, buses are the most straightforward method: numerous bus routes pass near or along Karangahape Road. For example, buses coming from various parts of the city often stop at the top of Queen Street or on Pitt Street, both of which intersect with K’ Road just a few minutes’ walk from the venue. The InnerLink and OuterLink bus services also have stops in the Karangahape Road area, making it convenient to get there from suburbs like Ponsonby, Parnell, or Newmarket. Be sure to check the latest Auckland Transport bus schedules – in the evening, buses run frequently up till a certain time (and some late-night services run on weekends). If you’re already in the city centre, the venue is about a 10-15 minute walk uphill from the main downtown area (for instance, walking up Queen Street and turning west onto K’ Road). Taxis and rideshare services (like Uber or local taxi companies) are widely used as well – simply input “340 Karangahape Road” as your destination and the driver will likely know the spot, or use the GPS to get you there. For drop-offs, it’s best to aim for the stretch of K’ Road right in front of the venue; on busier nights, your driver might pull over slightly up or down the road if there’s congestion, but since the area is lively and well-lit, a short walk isn’t a problem.

Parking in the Karangahape Road area can be a bit challenging, but there are options. Street parking is available on K’ Road itself and on the surrounding side streets, but be aware of the restrictions – much of it is pay-and-display until a certain hour in the evening, and some sections become clearways or have time limits. If you’re lucky, you might snag a spot on the street nearby (parking is typically free after certain hours at night, like after 8pm, but always double-check the street signs to avoid fines or towing). A safer bet for drivers is to use a nearby parking garage. The most convenient one is the Karangahape Road Car Park, a multi-level parking building accessed via Mercury Lane (a side street off K’ Road, roughly a 3-5 minute walk from the venue). This parking building offers hourly and evening rates and keeps your car off the busy main road. There are also other parking facilities a bit further afield – for example, parking buildings or open lots around the upper Queen Street area or near Simon Street that are within 10 minutes walk. When driving to the venue, note that Karangahape Road is one-way in some sections due to ongoing city developments (including the construction of the City Rail Link train station nearby), so using GPS for navigation is helpful. Also, on weekend nights, K’ Road can be busy with traffic and pedestrians, so plan some extra time to find parking and walk to the venue. Many locals actually prefer to take a taxi or rideshare when heading to a K’ Road gig, to avoid the parking hassle altogether – this way you can enjoy the show (and perhaps a few drinks) without worry. If you do drive, ensure the car park you choose will remain open late enough (some close at midnight, while others operate 24/7). Overall, the venue’s central location means it’s well-served by public transit and fairly easy to reach on foot from many central accommodations, so even if you don’t have a car you should have no trouble getting there and back.

Inside the Venue

When you step inside 340 Karangahape Rd’s Studio The Venue, you’ll immediately notice the electric atmosphere. The entry is directly off the street, and on show nights you’ll typically queue briefly outside under the venue’s awning or signage before being ushered in by security. The door staff are thorough yet friendly – they will check your ID (remember, this is an R18 venue, so everyone must show valid photo identification) and scan your ticket. Bag checks are routine for safety: large bags, backpacks, or any prohibited items (like outside alcohol, sharp objects, or professional camera equipment) won’t be allowed in, so it’s best to travel light. After passing through security, you’ll find yourself in the main foyer area, which leads directly to the ground floor of the venue. The layout is open, with the stage at one end and bars and facilities around the perimeter. The décor of the interior is a blend of functional and industrial-chic – think dark walls, exposed upstairs railings, and a big wide stage with heavy curtains or an LED backdrop (depending on the event). The lighting system immediately sets the mood: even before artists come on, you might see coloured lights sweeping the room or screens displaying visual effects if a DJ is warming up.

One thing to expect is a powerful sound system. Studio The Venue prides itself on excellent acoustics and a top-tier PA system. Music is loud and clear – you’ll feel the bass thump in your chest when you’re on the dance floor. Despite the volume, the sound quality is generally well-balanced; they’ve invested in professional audio gear and skilled engineers so that vocals, instruments, and electronic beats all come through cleanly. If you’re sensitive to loud noise, consider bringing a pair of earplugs, as with any concert venue. The lighting and production are equally impressive: dynamic stage lights, moving beams, strobe effects, and even laser shows are common features during performances. Many artists bring their own lighting designers for shows here, and the venue’s rig can accommodate complex light shows. Fog machines are occasionally used to enhance the beams (so don’t be surprised by a bit of theatrical haze in the air). The venue can transform its look depending on the event – from minimalistic lighting for an intimate gig to full-on visual spectaculars for electronic dance nights.

In terms of amenities, bars are located on every level (ground floor and the two balcony levels). Each bar serves a range of drinks, including New Zealand beers on tap or in bottles, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic options. Do note that during peak times (like between opening acts or right before the headliner starts), bar queues can get long, especially at the main floor bar. If one bar is crowded, it’s worth exploring an upper level; often the bars upstairs have shorter lines since not everyone ventures beyond the main floor. Prices for drinks are what you’d expect in a central city venue – a bit on the higher side compared to a regular pub, but standard for a concert venue. Free water is available at the bars (you can ask for a glass of water, and staff will provide it – venues in NZ are required to have water available when serving alcohol). There’s also usually a water station or cooler jugs set out near the bar or side of the room for self-service, especially on hot, crowded nights, so you can stay hydrated.

The venue has restroom facilities on the ground floor (and additional toilets upstairs as well). The main bathrooms are typically down a hallway off the side of the ground floor. They are clearly signed for men and women. Given the building’s capacity, the restrooms are adequate in number, but as with any busy venue, you might encounter a queue for the women’s toilets during a mid-show rush. The staff do keep the facilities serviced through the night, but it’s always a good idea to go before the headlining act comes on to avoid the crowd. If you have trouble finding the toilets, just ask a staff member or look for signs – it might be a little tucked away if you’re unfamiliar, but it’s not far from the main hall.

Merchandise and extras: If the performing artist or event has merchandise (t-shirts, posters, etc.), there is usually a merch stand set up. Often this is located near the entrance foyer or along one side of the room. It’s generally open before the show, during support acts, and after the show ends. If you’re keen on buying merch, you might want to head there early to avoid lines later. They typically accept both cash and EFTPOS/credit cards for merch sales. There is also a coat check available on site – a very useful service given that Auckland’s weather can be cool or wet, and you won’t want to hold your jacket all night. The coat check at Studio The Venue is located upstairs (one level up from the entrance). You can drop off coats, bags, or umbrellas for a small fee (usually just a few dollars). It’s worth using if you’ve brought anything bulky, as the dance floor gets warm and you’ll appreciate being hands-free. Just note the location so you remember to retrieve your items afterwards (there might be a claim ticket system). If unsure, any staff or security can direct you to the coat check.

Connectivity: Inside the thick walls of this historic building, mobile phone reception can be spotty in some areas (especially when you’re deep in the crowd and everyone’s phones are competing for signal). On the balconies you might get a better signal than on the ground floor. There isn’t a public Wi-Fi provided for concert-goers, so don’t rely on that. If you need to coordinate with friends, it’s best to agree on a meeting spot (for example, “to the left of the stage” or “by the upstairs bar”) beforehand, as hearing your phone ring or finding someone in the crowd can be challenging once the show is in full swing. As for general atmosphere, be prepared for a high-energy, sometimes rowdy (but generally friendly and positive) crowd. K’ Road is known for its inclusive and diverse nightlife, and you’ll see all sorts of people enjoying the music together. The venue staff and security are present throughout – you’ll see security near the stage and at the doors, mostly there to ensure everyone’s having a safe time. They may enforce rules like no smoking indoors (smoking is strictly outside only), and if you need any help (feeling unwell, lost something, etc.), you can approach them or the bar staff. Overall, inside Studio The Venue you can expect an exciting, immersive experience – it’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s a quintessential Auckland night out.

Nearby Amenities

One of the advantages of 340 Karangahape Rd’s location is the wealth of nearby amenities. Karangahape Road itself is lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and late-night eateries, so you have plenty of options before or after an event. If you’re looking for a pre-show dinner, you’ll find numerous choices within a short walk of the venue. K’ Road is famous for its international food offerings – there are cheap and cheerful eateries like kebab shops, pizza places, and Asian takeaways, as well as sit-down restaurants offering Italian, Thai, Indian, Middle Eastern, and more. Many of the food spots on K’ Road cater to the night-time crowd, with some open late into the night (especially on weekends). For example, you can grab a quick kebab or burger on your way to the show, or settle in for a meal at a local café or bistro if you have time. It’s a good idea to eat something beforehand since once you’re inside the venue the food options are limited (mostly just snacks at the bar).

If you want to have a drink or two in a different setting before heading into Studio The Venue, you’re in luck – K’ Road has a variety of bars and pubs nearby. There are classic pubs with live music where you can warm up with a pint, stylish cocktail lounges hidden in back alleys, and quirky dive bars beloved by locals. The vibe ranges from relaxed and artsy to full-on party, so you can choose what suits your mood. Some popular bars are literally a few doors down or across the street from 340 Karangahape Rd, meaning you won’t stray far from the venue. Just remember not to lose track of time if you have a show to catch! As showtime approaches (especially on weekends), you’ll notice the whole street getting busier – it’s all part of the K’ Road nightlife experience. After the show, if you’re not ready to call it a night, you can easily move on to another bar or late-night club on K’ Road or in the adjacent Ponsonby area. Many places stay open till the early hours of the morning on Fridays and Saturdays. And if you need a late-night bite post-concert, there are 24-hour bakeries and take-away joints in the vicinity where you can grab a pie, sandwich, or dumplings to satisfy those post-gig hunger pangs.

For visitors coming from out of town, there are also several accommodation options convenient to the venue. Along Karangahape Road and the surrounding streets, you’ll find everything from backpacker hostels (like a lodge/hostel a few hundred metres away) to upscale hotels. The big hotels in the uptown area (for example, on upper Queen Street or by Myers Park) are within walking distance – you can stroll back to your hotel after the show without needing transport. If you’re staying downtown near the waterfront, that’s a bit farther (maybe a 20-30 minute walk downhill), so you might opt for a quick taxi or rideshare back. Fortunately, the central city isn’t large, so most city hotels are just a short drive from K’ Road. It’s a common strategy for concert-goers to stay in the central city or Ponsonby when attending shows at Studio, to have easy access.

A few extra tips regarding timing: It’s generally a good idea to arrive at Karangahape Road a little earlier than strictly necessary – not only to ensure you’re not rushing, but also to enjoy the area. Perhaps plan to get to the neighbourhood an hour or more before doors open. This gives you time to find parking (if driving) or account for any public transport delays, grab dinner or a drink, and soak in the local atmosphere. K’ Road has some interesting boutique shops and galleries too, which might still be open in the early evening if you’re there on a First Thursday or a late shopping night. If your show ends late (many concerts will wrap up around 11 pm or midnight, and club events might go on till 1-2 am or later), consider your late-night transport options. Buses will be less frequent or done for the night by that time, though there are often Night Bus services on weekends on certain routes – check the Auckland Transport “Nite Rider” schedule if you’re relying on that. Often, people share rides or queue for taxis on K’ Road after events. It’s usually not hard to find a ride, but there may be some wait if lots of people leave the venue at once. You can always walk a block or two away from the busiest part of K’ Road to more easily book an Uber or catch a taxi. The area is generally safe with many others around, but as always in a city, stay aware of your surroundings late at night. Overall, the proximity of so many amenities means your night out at 340 Karangahape Rd can be a full experience – dinner, show, and after-party – all within the same colourful neighbourhood.

What Makes This Venue Special

There’s a reason why locals speak fondly of 340 Karangahape Rd and why artists often choose to perform here when touring New Zealand. The special character of Studio The Venue comes from a mix of its architectural heritage, its cultural legacy, and the electric energy within its walls. First, consider the heritage and architecture: this venue isn’t a bland modern box; it’s housed in a former Art Deco-era theatre that has seen over a century of Auckland’s changing entertainment landscape. The exterior still hints at that vintage theatre charm, and inside, the high ceilings and tiered balconies give a sense of grandeur that many contemporary venues lack. Walking in, you can almost feel the echoes of the past – from wartime movie-goers at the old Vogue Theatre to the drag queens and dancers of the famous Staircase nightclub that once occupied the building. This continuity of entertainment history gives Studio a soul. It’s not just a venue that popped up recently; it has been reinvented time and again, carrying stories from each era. Few venues in Auckland have such a lineage, and that creates a kind of mystique and nostalgia when you’re there.

Another aspect that makes 340 Karangahape Rd special is its cultural significance to the community. Karangahape Road is known as Auckland’s bohemian and alternative cultural heart, and Studio The Venue is one of the crown jewels of this scene. Over the years, this spot has been a safe haven for creativity and inclusion. In the late 20th century, as “The Staircase”, it was a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ nightlife, fostering acceptance and memorable nights for a community that couldn’t always be themselves elsewhere. Today, as a live music venue, it continues that inclusive tradition – you’ll see a wonderfully diverse crowd at any given show, united by their love of the music. The venue has hosted benefit concerts, local band battles, and community festivals, not just international headliners. Local musicians often cite playing at Studio as a milestone in their careers, since the stage has been shared by some of the world’s best. It’s the kind of place where a young Kiwi band might open for a big overseas act and take their own step into the limelight.

From an artist’s perspective, Studio The Venue has a reputation as a favourite tour stop in Auckland because of the crowd and the vibe. The acoustics and production quality mean performers can deliver their best show, and the relatively intimate size (compared to an arena) means they can really connect with the audience. There have been legendary performances on this stage – fans will tell you about epic gigs they’ve seen here, from high-octane sets by international DJs that had the whole floor bouncing, to emotional rock reunions or surprise guest appearances that passed into local lore. The venue’s management also adds to its special nature: they have continuously upgraded the facilities while respecting the history. In recent years, a major refurbishment brought in modern sound, lighting, and amenities while preserving the venue’s identity. The result is the best of both worlds – modern comfort and tech, with old-school character. People often remark that Studio has a certain vibe you don’t get elsewhere: it’s simultaneously gritty and glamorous, a bit of vintage K’ Road edge combined with the excitement of a modern concert venue.

Ultimately, what makes 340 Karangahape Rd special is the experience it offers to everyone who walks through its doors. For audiences, it’s the thrill of seeing a favourite band up close in an environment buzzing with energy, where the walls seem to reverberate with music and cheers. For performers, it’s the roar of an Auckland crowd in a place that feels like a home of live music. And for the local community, it’s the knowledge that this historic venue continues to contribute to the city’s cultural life – inspiring new artists, bringing people together, and keeping the nightlife economy thriving. Studio The Venue is more than just a physical space; it’s a catalyst for shared experiences. Whether it’s your first gig there or your fiftieth, there’s always a little bit of magic in the air at 340 Karangahape Rd, making it a venue that holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Visitor Tips and Information

To make the most of your visit to 340 Karangahape Rd, here are some practical tips and info that can enhance your experience. First and foremost, remember that entry is restricted to 18 and over. This means you will need to bring acceptable photo ID every time (even if you clearly look over 18, the venue adheres strictly to NZ law). Accepted forms of ID include a current driver’s licence, passport, or the official 18+ Kiwi Access card – importantly, it must be valid (not expired) or you will be turned away. No exceptions are made for underage guests, even if accompanied by an adult, so if you’re not 18 yet, unfortunately you’ll have to wait for another opportunity in the future.

Dress code: Studio The Venue doesn’t enforce a high-fashion dress code – casual and comfortable is the norm. You’ll see people in t-shirts, jeans, streetwear, and whatever suits the music style of the night. However, one rule to note is that open-toed footwear (like flip-flops or sandals) is discouraged or not allowed, mainly for safety reasons (broken glass on a nightclub floor is no fun). It’s best to wear closed-toe shoes or sneakers, which also will be more comfortable for standing and dancing. Shorts are perfectly fine, and on a warm summer night the inside of the venue can get hot, so dress in layers or light clothing. If it’s a themed event (say an 80s night or a costume party), you can of course dress up for the occasion – K’ Road is known for its expressive, creative crowd, so feel free to show your style. Just keep in mind you’ll be in a packed crowd, so maybe leave the giant hat or bulky costume pieces at home if you want to move easily.

When heading to the venue, plan to arrive early if you want a prime spot or if the show is general admission with a big expected turnout. Doors typically open about 60 minutes before the first act (this can vary, often stated on your ticket or the event announcement). For very popular concerts, some fans line up outside even earlier to be first in – especially if they want to claim a spot right at the front of the stage. If you’re not as concerned about being up front, arriving 15-30 minutes after doors open is usually sufficient to avoid the initial rush and still get a decent spot. Keep in mind that late entry is allowed (you can come in even after the headliner has started, as long as you have a ticket), but you’ll be squeezing into whatever space is left. Also note that once you’re in, there is generally no re-entry if you leave. This is a common policy at Auckland venues – if you exit mid-show (to smoke outside or fetch something from your car), you may not be allowed back in, so bring everything you need with you and use the outdoor smoking area rather than stepping fully off premises.

Accessibility: If you have accessibility needs, Studio The Venue can accommodate you, but a little planning helps. As mentioned, the ground floor is wheelchair accessible and provides a clear view of the stage. Unfortunately, there is no public lift to the upper balconies, so wheelchair users or those who cannot manage stairs will be on the ground level. The staff are very helpful – as one visitor recounted, management allowed early entry for them on crutches and provided a seat upstairs for a better view. So if you require special assistance (like a place to sit, or early entry to get settled before the crowd), it’s a good idea to reach out to the venue ahead of time via email or phone. They will often make arrangements, such as reserving a spot near the sound desk (which typically has good sightlines) or offering a chair if needed. There are accessible restroom facilities on the ground floor. For those with hearing sensitivity, aside from bringing earplugs, note that you can usually find slightly quieter spots toward the back of the hall or on the upper level away from speakers. The venue’s priority is that all patrons have a safe and enjoyable experience, so don’t hesitate to speak to security or staff upon arrival if you need assistance – they’re accustomed to helping in any way they can.

Personal belongings: To ensure a smooth entry and comfort inside, consider packing light. Bags are allowed but will be searched, and something like a small handbag or a fanny-pack is ideal. Avoid bringing large backpacks; they won’t only be a hassle at security, but also cumbersome in a crowd (and may be refused at the door or required to be checked into the cloakroom). Take advantage of the coat check upstairs for any jackets, umbrellas, or bags you don’t want to carry. It’s secure and worth the small fee to not have items weighing you down. Inside, keep your phone, wallet, and essentials on you at all times – a zipped pocket is best, as you’ll be moving around. While the venue is generally safe, it’s wise in any crowded place to keep valuables secured on your person.

During the show: Be mindful of concert etiquette and venue rules. Filming small snippets on your phone is usually fine (unless the artist explicitly forbids it), but avoid using flash photography or holding up tablets/large devices that could block others’ view. Professional cameras (DSLRs with detachable lenses) are not allowed unless you have media permission. Crowd-surfing and stage-diving are generally not permitted for safety reasons – the security team at the front will intervene if that happens. If you need to step out for fresh air or to the restroom, you can do so – just be aware that getting your prime spot back on the floor might be difficult if it’s crowded. For smokers, there’s often a designated outdoor smoking section (usually you’ll be directed to a cordoned area just outside the main doors or in a side alley, where you can smoke without fully leaving the venue). Listen for announcements or ask staff if unsure.

After the show: The music usually ends on time per noise curfews and event scheduling. Once the lights come up, you don’t have to rush out immediately – you can finish your drink or buy that last-minute merch item. But the bar will stop serving alcohol by the cut-off time (typically around 30 minutes before closing). As you exit, the staff will guide people out to K’ Road. It’s a good idea to have a post-show plan: if you’re meeting someone, choose a landmark spot just outside (like a specific storefront) because the footpath will be filled with patrons spilling out. Taxis often wait along the street when venues close, but if you don’t see one, you might walk a short distance or use your phone to book a ride. And finally, take a moment to look around and soak in the scene – Karangahape Road at midnight is an experience in itself, with street lights, neon signs, and an array of characters. It’s the perfect bookend to your night at this special venue, and with these tips in mind, you’ll leave with great memories and hopefully a desire to come back for another show.

Frequently Asked Questions