About 38 Customs St E
38 Customs Street East is the address of Australis House, a heritage building in Auckland’s central Britomart precinct. Designed by architects Mitchell & Watt and completed in 1904, this redbrick structure (originally known as the Entrican Building) exemplifies early 20th-century commercial architecture. It is officially recognized by Heritage New Zealand as a Category 1 historic place (one of the highest heritage designations). Early 20th-century reviews praised its “brilliantly lighted” and spacious interior showroom. Today the building has been refurbished as an events venue (often called the Australis Room), preserving signature period features like ornate plaster cornices, tall sash windows and polished timber floors. In short, 38 Customs St E stands out in Auckland’s cityscape because of its architectural charm and historic roots – a slice of the city’s past in the heart of modern Britomart.
Events and Programming
38 Customs St E (Australis House) isn’t a typical large performance venue, so it doesn’t have a regular show schedule. Instead, it’s used for one-off events: think corporate seminars, weddings, dinners or private ceremonies. It has hosted charity galas and cultural functions – for example the venue was used for a Movember fundraising gala and heritage festival tours highlighted it as a local landmark. Since 2020 public events inside have been rare (in part due to COVID), so most happenings here are booked exclusively. Nearby Britomart events (like free craftsmanship markets or “Streetside” creative street programs as part of a writers’ festival) typically take place in the precinct’s shared plazas, restaurants or laneways rather than this indoor hall. In short, when something does go on at 38 Customs, details will appear on event listings. Ticket prices depend on the event format (a business lunch might be NZ$100+, while a casual pop-up talk could be much less). If you want to attend something here, watch Britomart’s official announcements or local event sites. Otherwise, plan to appreciate the venue’s heritage presence even when it’s quiet.
Tickets and Booking
There is no regular box office at 38 Customs St E, because it is not typically open daily. When events are scheduled, tickets (if any) must be purchased through the event organiser’s channels, not onsite. In practice this means checking the event’s official website or a reputable local ticketing platform for availability. For Britomart-related events, look on the Britomart precinct’s announcements or ticketing partners. Prices vary by event; bigger events set tiered pricing (general vs VIP), while small gatherings often charge a flat rate. Popular functions can sell out quickly, so it’s wise to book early. In general, use the same strategy as you would for any special Auckland function: track the event’s social media or mailing list for on-sale dates. Be aware there is no guaranteed door-sale line – plan to have your ticket ahead of time. If you do need last-minute entry, contact the organiser to see if extras are available. For private rentals (like corporate hire), 38 Customs St E is booked through Britomart’s events team, not through consumer ticket vendors.
Seating and Layout
Seating at 38 Customs St E is entirely flexible; the room has no permanent chairs. Organisers arrange whatever layout they need. For example, a lecture or concert might set up rows of chairs facing a temporary stage, while a formal dinner would be arranged with round tables in the centre. Cocktail parties and receptions often clear most seating to leave standing space. Because the hall is on one level (no balcony or raised tiers), sightlines are straightforward: most guests have a clear view of the front area. The venue suits roughly 60–100 people depending on setup. Audiovisual equipment like speakers, microphones and projectors must be brought in as needed (there is no built-in system). The acoustics are warm but the high ceiling can cause some echo on a spoken talk; on warm nights with doors open, you might even hear street or fountain sounds from outside. In any layout, avoid standing or sitting right by the main entrance (that area will be crowded during entry and exit). Otherwise, any position in the room offers a decent view. There are no fixed ‘VIP’ boxes or lounge areas – VIPs simply sit up front or get special placement. One limitation is that with no stage immersion (no dance floor or stadium seats), this hall is meant for intimate gatherings rather than large pop concerts.
Getting There and Parking
Location: 38 Customs St E is in Auckland’s downtown (CBD), in the Britomart precinct. The address puts it between Albert Street and Queen Street (just one block east of Albert, on Customs Street). Because Britomart is a known landmark, you can navigate here by looking for the historic Australis House building. It sits near the corner of Tyler Street and Customs. An easy landmark is the nearby Takutai Square (water fountain plaza) – the venue is on the same block, just opposite.
Public transport: The closest train station is Britomart (the city’s main suburban rail terminal on Quay Street). From Britomart station’s exit onto Customs, you are about a 2–3 minute walk from number 38. Several bus routes also stop at or near Britomart, and a free inner-city shuttle services that area as well. If you’re taking a taxi or rideshare, ask the driver to drop you off on Customs Street near Tyler Street (there is a small dedicated drop zone there).
Parking: On-street parking is limited and metered. During business hours, expect roughly NZ$3–$5 per hour for on-street parking (with a typical 2-hour max). In the evening after 6pm the rate drops to about $2/hr. A more reliable option is paid parking in a nearby garage. The Britomart valet car park (at 51 Quay St) takes most cars and charges about $20 for two hours. Nearby Fort Street and Shortland Street multi-storeys also accept public parking (each roughly $24 for two hours). These are a 3–7 minute walk away. If staying very late, remember that free street parking kicks in after around 10pm, but spaces are very scarce.
Inside the Venue
Entering 38 Customs St E feels like stepping back in time. The door opens to a foyer that leads into the main hall, decorated with preserved heritage details. Expect polished wooden floors, exposed brick walls and high decorative ceilings – a classy vintage atmosphere. At most events, you’ll find a check-in table or reception at the door (staff may check tickets or IDs). Security staff or volunteer organisers will be present but unobtrusive. Inside, lighting is usually set by the event – often dimmer and moodier than normal office lighting, which creates an intimate vibe. There is no permanent bar or kitchen, but if drinks are served you will see mobile service stations or catering tables. (In fact, many attendees grab dinner or cocktails in nearby bars instead.) There is a small restroom, but no coat-check room; people often use a corner of the hall to hang jackets. The venue is fully indoors, so weather won’t cut a show short. Cell signal is strong, so your phone should work. One fun surprise: on one wall the architects painted an outline of a Tiffany-style facade (white on the brick) as an art piece – it looks like a giant store sign built into the building. Otherwise, inside it just feels like a grand old hall. The only rule inside is “no smoking” by New Zealand law. Otherwise, wander and enjoy the historic charm at your own pace; just remember to stay quietly in your area once seated. Finally, be mindful that adjacent rooms or laneways may be rented as part of Britomart’s events: keep noise at reasonable levels so other tenants aren’t disturbed.
Nearby Amenities
The block around 38 Customs St E is packed with services for visitors. Immediately adjacent and on the next block are fast food outlets, cafes, casual diners and upmarket restaurants. Whatever type of cuisine you like, you’ll probably find it within a 5 minute walk – from sushi, burgers, pizza and poke to seafood and modern New Zealand fare. Notable local favourites include the Amano café (Italian-influenced) and Fortune Favours diner. For drinks, Britomart is known for lively bars – a short walk will take you to craft-beer pubs (like the Hop Garden brewpub nearby), cozy cocktail lounges in the lanes behind (Ghost Street) and laid-back wine bars. Food trucks or casual street vendors sometimes set up near the square. After your visit, many go to nearby late-night spots. Little Creatures Brewpub on Quay Street and the bars on Queen/Customs are open late. There are also several convenience stores and bottle shops within 2–3 blocks if you need snacks or drinks. If the event ends after dark, remember that trains and buses run less frequently late at night, so plan your ride home accordingly (Uber/taxis and late-night shuttles run longer hours). The surrounding streets also host numerous cafes, bars and take-aways, making this area truly one of the most convenient in central Auckland. Hotels and transport: Several good hotels are nearby. The QT Auckland (on Customs & Albert) and the Cordis (on Queen Street) are both within a couple of blocks and offer full amenities. M Social (120 Federal St) is about two blocks away. If you don’t mind a slightly longer walk or taxi, the Crowne Plaza and SkyCity Grand by Hilton are also just a 5–10 minute stroll. In short, many city hotels lie within easy walking distance of 38 Customs St E.
What Makes This Venue Special
38 Customs St E is special largely because it is one of the most intact Victorian-era commercial buildings in Auckland. Unlike purpose-built modern halls, it charms visitors with original architecture – the decorative brickwork, plaster trim and timber pillars wouldn’t be found in new venues. A standout feature is a trompe-l’oeil “reverse facade” painted on one wall: using white plaster, the architects traced an outline of the building’s own front (complete with a Tiffany-blue awning motif) onto its back wall. That quirky art wall often surprises first-time guests. More broadly, the site is steeped in local lore: once a city trading warehouse, it recalls Auckland’s past as a waterfront port. Preserving and reusing it was a key goal of the Britomart redevelopment, so 38 Customs now mingles history with Kiwi creativity. Fan-favourite moments at this address have nothing to do with big concerts – instead it’s the feeling of gathering in a piece of living history. The atmosphere is so unique that attendees often comment they feel like they’re part of a private club. In short, the blend of rich history, eye-catching design and intimate scale makes 38 Customs St E stand out as a beloved local landmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility & Comfort: The older style interior means the room can be cooler in winter and warmer in summer, so dress in layers. The floors are hardwood or polished concrete, so wear comfortable shoes if you’ll be standing. There’s limited hardware for large wheelchair lifts on site (though the floor is mostly level), so let the event staff know if you need assistance – they usually keep an eye out. The building has basic heating but no air-conditioning, so having a sweater for chillier nights is wise.
Restrictions: Unlike outdoor festivals or nightclubs, normal city venue rules apply here: no outside alcohol (unless it’s a BYO event specified in advance), no smoking indoors, and no illegal substances. Bags and belongings might be checked on entry (common for ticketed events). You can bring a camera or smartphone, but flash photography may be banned during performances, so check event rules. Some events provide a coat rack, but others won’t, so small or easy-to-carry bags are convenient. The venue requires you to stay in the main hall once admitted – don’t wander into wings or storage areas.
Other Tips: If you lose something, report it to staff immediately. The hall is relatively quiet acoustically, so please keep conversations low-volume once seated. Public transport runs later on weekends, but if your event ends very late (around 10pm or after), be prepared to use a taxi or rideshare home. Finally, remember that this venue is popular – if you registered an arrival time (or coordinating with friends), sharing it via your phone can help keeping your group together in the small space. Enjoy the evening – this is the kind of place where friendly locals might give you an insider greeting if they recognize you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets for events at 38 Customs Street East?
There is no permanent box office at 38 Customs St E. Tickets (if any) are usually sold by the event organiser directly in advance. Check the event’s website or local listings for how to buy them – there is generally no option to purchase at the door. In short, plan to secure your ticket ahead of time through the promoter, often online or over the phone.
Can I buy tickets at the venue’s box office or at the door?
No, the venue does not have a staffed box office or ticket booth. Most events at Australis House are by invitation or pre-sale only. If tickets are available, you’ll need to buy them in advance (typically online). Very rarely a promoter might offer a small number at the door, but don’t count on it. The safe assumption is to purchase ahead of time from the event’s ticket platform.
What is the capacity of Australis House at 38 Customs St E?
The room can hold roughly between 60 and 100 people, depending on setup. Because it’s a flexible space, some seating is removed for standing receptions. Typically, seated arrangements fit around 70. Just remember it’s an intimate hall – far smaller than a stadium – so events are limited to on the order of dozens of guests rather than hundreds.
Does 38 Customs St E have fixed seating or is it open floor?
There are no fixed seats. Chairs or couches are set up by the event organisers as needed. For instance, lecture-style events use rows of chairs facing the front, while formal dinners have tables and chairs. Other events clear most chairs entirely for standing-only gatherings. Since the floor is level, any front-half of the room works well view-wise (just avoid blocking the entrance). In short, seating is arranged to suit each event’s style.
Are there parking facilities nearby, and what are the costs?
Street parking is metered (about $3–5 per hour during the day) but limited in duration. A nearby official option is the Britomart paid car park: for example, the Quay Street multi-storey (valet) charges roughly $20 for 2 hours. Other local car parks on Fort Street and Shortland Street charge around $24 for two hours each. In general, you should expect to pay for parking or use a paid lot rather than find free parking in the area.
Which train station or bus stop is closest to 38 Customs St E?
Britomart Station (the central city rail terminal) is essentially next door on Quay Street – exit there and walk 2–3 minutes to Customs Street. Many city buses also stop at Britomart or the nearby downtown bus exchange. There is no single “Customs St E” bus stop, but routes on Queen or Quay Streets will drop you within a couple of blocks. If you see a bus headed into the CBD, it likely stops close enough for a short walk.
Is there a convenient taxi or rideshare drop-off point?
Yes – there’s a small dedicated drop-off zone at the corner of Customs Street East and Tyler Street, right by the entrance. Uber or taxi drivers will often pull up there to deliver passengers. In practice, just tell your driver to let you off at 38 Customs St E or along Tyler Street so you can walk straight into the door without searching for parking.
Which restaurants or bars are recommended around the venue?
The Britomart area offers countless dining and bar options. Nearby you have casual eats (sushi, burgers, pizza and more) on corner blocks. Notable spots include Amano (European café fare) and Fortune Favours (diner). A few minutes’ walk brings you to craft-beer pubs like the Hop Garden, laneway cocktail bars (Ghost Street), and waterfront rooftops. In short, you can find anything from quick bites to sit-down dinners and late-night drinks within a short stroll.
Are there hotels within walking distance of 38 Customs Street East?
Yes. The closest are QT Auckland (at the corner of Customs & Albert) and the Cordis (on Queen Street), both just a couple of blocks away. M Social (120 Federal St) is two blocks east. If you don’t mind a longer walk, the Crowne Plaza and SkyCity Grand/Hilton are about 5–10 minutes on foot. Basically, many city hotels lie within easy walking distance, so you can stay nearby if needed.
Is there a dress code for events at this venue?
Dress codes vary by event, but generally there is no strict requirement. Most people wear smart-casual attire – for example, neat jeans and a shirt or a casual dress. Some corporate or formal events may suggest business attire, but most Britomart gatherings are relaxed. In any case, avoid very casual beachwear like flip-flops. If unsure, it’s safer to dress slightly nicer than you think is required – looking presentable is always a good idea.
Can I take photos or use my smartphone inside?
Yes, personal photography and phone use are generally allowed. Silent photos for personal use are usually fine. (Using flash or professional cameras might be restricted during performances, depending on the event.) Always check the specific event’s rules on recording. The venue itself has no extra ban on snapshots, but please be courteous to performers and other guests. When in doubt, simply ask a staff member for guidance.
What items or behaviors are prohibited inside?
Standard venue rules apply here. No weapons, fireworks or illegal substances are ever allowed. Hats and large backpacks may be inspected at entry. Outside alcohol is prohibited (unless an event is explicitly BYO and licensed). Smoking or vaping is not allowed indoors. Aside from that, use common sense: don’t obstruct aisles or exits, and follow any instructions from staff. Essentially, behave as you would at any public indoor event and you’ll be fine.
What if an event is cancelled or postponed?
Cancellation policies are set by the event organiser (not the venue). If your event at 38 Customs St E is cancelled or rescheduled, follow the promoter’s instructions. They usually offer refunds or rebooking through the original ticket portal. The venue or Britomart management does not guarantee refunds on its own – any notification will come from the ticket seller or promoter. Keep your ticket confirmation and watch the event’s official channels for updates.
Is there Wi-Fi or internet available on-site?
No public Wi-Fi is provided specifically for this venue. Organisers typically rely on mobile hotspots or cellular data if internet is needed for an event. Since 38 Customs St E is in the CBD, phone coverage is generally strong, so your own mobile data should work for basic browsing or ticket apps. If you require internet for something like live presentations, check with the event producers in advance about connection options.
Can I bring children or pets to events here?
There is no venue-imposed age limit. Families can attend if the event is suitable for kids. Most music or late-night events might be 18+, which should be noted in the event info, but otherwise all ages are welcome. If you bring children, ensure the program is child-friendly (some corporate dinners or shows may not be). The venue has no play areas, so keep kids supervised. Pets (other than service animals) are generally not permitted at indoor functions.
