Events at 67 Customs St E, Auckland, Auckland

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La Terraza (The Rooftop Experience) Doorly [UK] & Javi Bora [ESP]

6:00 PM, Fri, 11 Jan 2019

Jan

HI-SO Rooftop Bar

Auckland

About 67 Customs St E (SO/Auckland Hotel)

67 Customs Street East is the address of **SO/ Auckland**, a 16-storey luxury boutique hotel and event complex in downtown Auckland’s CBD. Occupying the former Reserve Bank building, it opened in late 2018 and blends historical flair with cutting-edge design . The hotel contains 130 guest rooms , a rooftop bar, a grill-style restaurant and multiple function spaces. Signature features pay homage to its past: the original gold bullion vault door is preserved in the event wing and rich touches of marble, bronze and gold leaf are used throughout www.ticketfairy.com . Dutch design house Moooi provided dramatic furnishings and lighting , and local art is on full display (notably 16 floors of Rachel Rush installations and the public SO/ Gallery on the ground floor) . From almost every level you get sweeping Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island views – the rooftop bar even advertises “Rangitoto Island and City of Sails” vistas . In short, 67 Customs St E is not just a hotel address but a high-design venue in the heart of Auckland, known for its striking architecture, city views and fashion-forward vibe www.ticketfairy.com .

Events and Programming

SO/Auckland is as much an events venue as a hotel. Its basement “Vault” ballroom (about 231 m²) can host lavish dinners or conferences for up to ~150 people , while a rooftop deck (the “Social Club” on Level 3) can accommodate up to 100 guests outdoors . The in-house **Harbour Society** restaurant (15th floor) operates daily – serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner (see hours below) – and can be reserved for private functions. On the top floor, the R18 “HI-SO Rooftop Bar” is a nightlife hotspot: it runs regular party events with live DJs on Friday and Saturday evenings . Throughout the year SO/ hosts themed promotions and special parties – for example, cocktail events like Negroni Week (Sep 2025) and New Year’s Eve (“Countdown In The Sky”) have been announced . The bar also joins local holidays: in June 2025 it held a Matariki (Māori New Year) night on the rooftop . Themed brunches (e.g. “Brunch Society” on Saturdays) and seasonal tasting menus often appear on the schedule. In short, 67 Customs St E sees a mix of corporate gatherings, culinary evenings, and festive parties rather than rock concerts – but it’s a lively venue, especially on summer weekends.

Tickets and Booking

Most of SO/Auckland’s offerings don’t require advance tickets – casual visits to the lobby bar (MIXO), cafe (Javalab) or dining at Harbour Society are done by reservation or walk‐in. However, special events sometimes sell tickets online. For example, HI-SO’s New Year’s Eve 2025 party was advertised with tickets “now on sale” in advance . Recurring theme nights and large parties are usually promoted on the hotel’s website or event platforms. The best strategy is to watch official channels for limited-release events (NYE, tasting dinners, DJ parties) and book early, as capacity (200 people upstairs www.ticketfairy.com) is limited. Otherwise, table reservations for dinner/brunch at Harbour Society can be made via the hotel concierge, while HI-SO typically admits guests on a first-come basis (often with a door lineup on busy nights). As a guideline, signature cocktails at the rooftop run around NZ$18 each , and seasonal package deals advertised start around NZ$319 per night (for two people with breakfast) . As always in Auckland’s CBD, plan to arrive early for prime dates, and check whether special events require a cover charge – for most nights there is no entry fee, but holiday showcases may require purchasing a ticket.

Seating and Layout

67 Customs St E is not a single auditorium but a building-full of spaces. The ground floor lobby is rearranged as a lounge bar (MIXO) and cafe (Javalab); there is no fixed “main theatre” seating. Dining zones in **Harbour Society** (15th floor) are set up with free-standing tables and chairs – for the best views ask for a window table. The rooftop **HI-SO Bar** (Level 16) is mostly open-air, with a mix of high stools by the bar and lounge-style couches at low tables. For events, the largest hall is **The Vault** (basement level), which can seat ~145 theatre-style or 110 for banquet . It also includes a marble-trimmed stage area for presentations. The **Social Club Terrace** (Level 3) is a semi-open deck with sofas and high-tops, suitable for 10–100 guests cocktail-style (a retractable canopy provides partial shelter, but two sides are open-air). Another event area, **SO/Gallery** on the basement/main level, is an 80 m² blank canvas space for ceremonies or cocktail parties (about 75 max) . In general there are no “bad seats” since many gatherings are standing-room or café-style; however, if using The Vault for a sit-down event, avoid corners far from the stage/speakers. For ambience, note that the mezzanine in the Gallery area has three steps (not wheelchair-accessible), so seating there requires mobility. Unique vantage points include the rooftop’s skyline view (especially at sunset) and the grand lobby’s Marcel Wanders chandelier – both make great photo spots, though the rooftop can be windy. In short, SO/Auckland’s layout is built for social mingling rather than assigned seats, so choose your spot based on whether you want a city view (rooftop or 15th floor windows) or lounge comfort (couches and bar seating on lower levels).

Getting There and Parking

67 Customs St E sits on the corner of Customs and Queen Streets in Auckland’s CBD. By public transit it’s extremely convenient: **Britomart Transport Centre** (train and bus hub) is just a 3-minute walk . Many city buses along Queen and Customs Streets stop very close by, and the Queens Wharf ferry terminal is a few blocks away. If driving, note that SO/Auckland offers valet parking only (no self-park) at **NZD $65 per night** (locks cars under 2.1 m height) . Otherwise nearby car parks – for example Britomart Car Park or Fort Street Car Park – operate by the hour and are a 2–5 minute drive. (Britomart CP, for instance, is valet-only and about $20 for 2 hours .) Street parking in the heart of the CBD is limited, so prepaid lots are safer for longer stays. Rideshare/taxis can drop visitors off directly at the hotel entrance on Customs St, which has a porte-cochère. Flights from Auckland Airport (approx 22 km away) generally take ~30 minutes by car. Note that on busy event nights peak-time traffic can slow travel, so allow extra time.

Inside the Venue

At street level you enter into an opulent double-height lobby. Instead of a formal front desk, you’ll see a lounge bar area (MIXO) with loosening Scandinavian flair . To the left is **Javalab**, a casual café where everything is freshly made in-house – great for morning coffee or pastries. The vibe throughout is glossy, fashion-forward and distinctly **SO/** brand: expect polished staff uniforms by local designer World, and pops of art and gold detailing. If you’re here for a show or dinner, follow signs to the elevator banks or staircases up to the 15th floor (Harbour Society) or 16th (HI-SO). Security checks are minimal for general entry; however, for evening bars (especially HI-SO) and any ticketed events you will need valid photo ID. Once inside, the amenities are high-end. All guests can access free Wi-Fi – the hotel advertises “high-speed WiFi” in its meeting/event spaces . Restrooms are available on every public level (there are also accessible toilets). For the performance and event rooms, basic AV is available on request. For example, the website notes that an event hire package can include projectors and sound equipment (additional charge) . Much of the furniture is movable: at cocktail events you’ll see high tables and bar leaners, while dinner setups use round or banquet tables. Coat checks are not routinely advertised, but on cold evenings staff will usually assist with hanging coats or bags if you ask. Food and drink are a centerpiece here. The 15th-floor **Harbour Society** serves Mediterranean-inspired grill cuisine; it offers everything from Saturday brunch to dinner each night (Lunch: Thurs, Fri, Sun; Brunch: Sat; Dinner daily) . (For example, Harbour Society’s hours run Mon–Fr breakfast 6:30–10:30, Sat–Sun 7:00–11:00; then weekend brunch 12:00–3:00, dinner 6:00–9:30 nightly .) In contrast, **HI-SO Rooftop** (R18) is all about cocktails and small plates. Its menu features house-crafted signature drinks (one recent highlight is a NZ-themed pistachio-chocolate martini for NZ$18 ) plus a selection of wines, beers and sharable bites. Service is sophisticated but fun – expect lounge music in the evenings and a lively bar scene late on weekends. Connectivity to the city is seamless. Even at upper floors your cellphone signal remains strong, and the building’s guest elevators whisk you to any level in seconds. If you need souvenirs or supplies, the guest services desk (in the lobby area) can assist. Overall, 67 Customs St E feels like a hotel within an art gallery: polished, fashion-forward and focused on food, drink and skyline views rather than concert seating.

Nearby Amenities

Located in Britomart, 67 Customs St E is surrounded by dining and entertainment options. Right next door and across Customs Street you’ll find cafés and bars: for example the lively **Burger Fuel** and local bistros. A few blocks west is the Viaduct and Ferry Building precinct (10 min walk) with waterfront seafood restaurants and trendy bars. Closer on Queen Street are New World and Countdown supermarkets for snacks, and sights like the historic Britomart Station. Among notable eateries within walking distance are **Soul Bar & Bistro**, **Odettes Eatery**, **Depot**, and the wine bar **Cassia** (all 5–10 min walk). For pre-dinner drinks, popular lounges like **Cassette Nine** or **The Glass Goose** are nearby on Victoria and Queen Streets. Several other hotels are also in the area: the heritage **Rendezvous (formerly Sofitel)** is next door, and the SkyCity and Grand Millennium are a 5–7 minute walk via Wellesley St. It’s wise to arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your reservation or event start time, as the CBD can be busy and signage is modest. After dark, trains stop running around 9–10pm, but frequent buses and rideshares cover late-night transport (Britomart’s TransDev bus hub remains open until late). Taxis or an Uber/Lyft can pick up/deliver right at Customs Street. If you’re staying late, note that Auckland’s centre remains safe but quiet after midnight – plan your commute home in advance. In fair weather you might stroll around the waterfront (Donovan’s Reef/ Viaduct Quarter) or carry on a bar crawl through Queen and Shortland Street, but after bars close around 1–2 am, the best bet is a cab.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several factors set 67 Customs St E apart. First, the building itself has a unique backstory as Auckland’s former Reserve Bank headquarters and bullion vault (complete with a giant vault door) www.ticketfairy.com. That heritage is woven into the experience: gleaming gold accents reference the “gold reserves” once kept here, and even the hotel’s branding plays on the idea of a treasure chest. Second, the design ambition is unrivalled. The lobby welcomes guests with a custom multi-lamp chandelier by Marcel Wanders (one of only three worldwide). Throughout the hotel world-renowned designers (Moooi for interiors , local fashion label WORLD for uniforms, floral artist Floral Centric) contributed. Every floor feels like a curated art space – Rachel Rush’s rotating installations span all 16 storeys – so visiting here feels more like exploring a contemporary art hotel than a cookie-cutter chain. Location also boosts its appeal. With unparalleled harbor views from high floors and a front-row seat to downtown life, the venue naturally attracts both tourists and locals. It quickly became known as the place “to see and be seen” in Auckland; local press and travellers praise its cosmopolitan atmosphere and cutting-edge style www.ticketfairy.com . Famous chefs (Harbour Society’s Marc de Passorio) and mixologists have chosen SO/Auckland to showcase their craft, further raising its profile. Even the small details stand out: the heated rooftop infinity pool, the 5-star spa and gym, or the fact that each room is whimsically themed after a geological element (“liquid, vapour, solid” to reflect Auckland’s volcanic history) www.ticketfairy.com. Culturally, the venue has become entwined with the city’s rhythms. It hosts events that highlight Auckland’s heritage – for instance, the hotel has celebrated Māori New Year (Matariki) on the rooftop with special cocktails – and it often partners with local artists and festivals. After opening, it became an instant landmark, raising the bar for design-led hospitality in New Zealand. Guests and artists alike remark on the “story” the building tells. In short, 67 Customs St E is special because it’s not just a convenient downtown location, but an immersive experience: history, design and city culture all in one architecturally striking venue.

Visitor Tips and Information

**Accessibility:** The hotel is largely wheelchair accessible, with elevators to all main floors. According to seating plans, the SO/Gallery mezzanine has a few steps, but the rest of the Gallery and main areas (lobby, restaurant, rooftop bar) are step-free . Accessible toilets are provided on public levels. If in doubt, ring ahead (the staff can describe access to specific floors). **What to Bring:** If you plan to drink at HI-SO or any bar, *carry valid ID* – Auckland bars strictly enforce the 18+ rule . Dress in smart-casual attire (Aucklanders tend to dress up for upscale bars; for example no beach sandals or jerseys later in the evening). Ladies beware it can get cool and windy on the open-air rooftop, so a light jacket is wise on warm evenings. Mobile phone reception and hotel Wi-Fi are good, but you might want earplugs if you’re sensitive to sound (the rooftop spins music loudly on weekends). **What Not to Bring:** Large backpacks or bulky bags may be inspected at peak times. Outside food, beverages or weapons are prohibited per hotel policy. Cameras are fine (many guests take photos of the skyline), but if there’s live music or a club night, be mindful of others – flash photography may be discouraged. **Age Restrictions:** Guests of any age can eat at the restaurant during permitted hours, but the rooftop bar HI-SO is strictly R18 at all times. Children are welcome at breakfast and early dining slots in Harbour Society, but after ~8pm the common areas function more as cocktail bars. Always check event pages: some ticketed functions (like wine tastings or music nights) may have their own age rules. **Common Mistakes:** Many visitors assume SO/Auckland is just another hotel; in fact it’s an entire complex. Don’t miss the hidden ‘Gold Vault’ photo op in the basement and the 3rd-floor terrace which is easy to overlook from inside. Also, the quickest arrival is via Britomart Station – trips down Queen Street can be slow. On event nights, the taxi stand can queue up; have a backup plan. Finally, book tables in advance if you plan to dine; walk-ins for dinner can face waits. **Insider Tips:** Club members and regulars suggest seating tips: in Harbour Society, window tables on the north side have the best harbor views; at HI-SO the corner tables on the west edge offer panorama of dusk light. Ask for a “cushion seat” if you’re tall – the plush banquettes are comfortable for lounging. Soho often has a coat check or cloakroom during big events – don’t hesitate to drop jackets off. If you’re here on a weekday afternoon, keep an eye out for “SO/Gallery” – Thursday and Friday afternoons it opens to the public as an art gallery . Lastly, if you’re driving, remember the valet maximum height (2.1 m) ; anything larger (like a van) will need off-site parking.

Do I need tickets to visit 67 Customs St E?

No general admission ticket is needed to just visit the hotel or its bars and restaurants. However, special events (like New Year’s Eve parties at the rooftop) are ticketed. These sell out quickly; check the hotel’s event announcements or social media. Regular nights at HI-SO or dinners at Harbour Society are by reservation or walk-in, not by ticket.

What is the capacity and seating like at 67 Customs St E?

The venue has multiple spaces rather than one fixed theatre. The largest hall (The Vault) seats ~145 theatre-style or 110 banquet-style . The 3rd-floor Social Club terrace (private outdoor deck) is ~200 m² and holds up to 100 standing guests . Harbour Society (15th floor restaurant) has flexible table seating (no fixed “best seat,” but windows offer great views). The rooftop HI-SO bar is open-air with couches and bar stools. Seating is generally casual/cocktail-style, so no formal row seating.

How do I get to 67 Customs Street East via public transit?

The closest station is **Britomart**. From Britomart Transit Centre it’s only a 3-minute walk – just exit the station on Customs St and head east. Many downtown buses also stop on Queen and Customs Streets, which are adjacent. If coming by ferry, disembark at Queens Wharf and walk (~10 minutes). Once in Britomart, clear signage or GPS will guide you to 67 Customs St East.

What parking options are available near 67 Customs St E?

On-site parking is valet-only at NZ$65/night . There is no self-park. Nearby public garages are within a few minutes’ drive: for example, Britomart Car Park offers a valet option (~NZ$20 for 2 hours ) and Fort St or Shortland St parking (around NZ$2.40–3.60/hr) are a short walk away. Street parking in the CBD is scarce, so prepaid lots or valet are recommended for long visits.

Are children and families allowed at this venue?

Children are welcome in family-friendly areas. The Harbour Society restaurant allows kids at breakfast, lunch and dinner. By contrast, HI-SO Rooftop Bar is adults-only (18+) at all times . Many events at The Vault or Social Club are private functions (age restrictions vary by event). If in doubt, check each event’s details or call ahead. Note that after roughly 8 pm the hotel’s atmosphere shifts to cocktails and nightlife, which may be less suited to young children.

What is the dress code for 67 Customs St E?

The general dress code is **smart casual**. In the evening especially (at the rooftop bar or dinner), patrons tend to dress stylishly. Avoid beachwear or athletic attire when dining or partying. During the day at the cafe or casual bar you can be more relaxed (jeans and sneakers are fine). When in doubt, “dress to impress” in the lobby bar or rooftop: many visitors opt for neat blouses/dress shirts and shoes that look good for photos.

What time should I arrive for my reservation or event?

Plan to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early. Traffic in the CBD can slow you down, and if you’re dining at Harbour Society (15th floor) or attending an event in The Vault, you’ll want time to check in and find parking/taxi drop-off. Popular dinner slots or weekend events often have a lounge area; arriving early lets you enjoy a drink. For ticketed events (e.g. NYE party), entry may start an hour before showtime – always read the event info to be sure.

Is there wheelchair access throughout the venue?

Yes, most of the public areas are lift-accessible. Elevators reach the lobby bars, Harbour Society restaurant (15th floor) and HI-SO rooftop (16th floor). The main gallery/event space is accessible from ground level, though one mezzanine level has a short stair section . Hotel staff can arrange ground-floor meeting rooms or assist with seating if steps are an issue. Accessible restrooms are available on each public level.

Can I bring my own food or drink into 67 Customs St E?

No – outside food and drinks are not permitted in the hotel’s restaurants and bars. All food and beverages must be purchased on-site. (As a luxury venue, SO/Auckland has no kitchens for outside catering.) If you have special dietary needs, you can speak with restaurant staff in advance, but they will expect you to order from the menu. Bringing in snacks or alcohol from outside is strictly against the hotel’s house policy.

Are Wi-Fi and charging facilities available?

The venue offers complimentary Wi-Fi in all public and meeting areas . You should receive a log-in code or splash-page when you connect. Power outlets are available at most tables in the lobby bar and restaurant – just ask a server. In the event spaces (Vault, Social Club) power and AV equipment can be arranged by prior request. Overall, you can expect modern connectivity (strong 4G/5G signal and hotel broadband) throughout the building.

What kind of food and drinks are on offer?

The venue is known for its dining. **Javalab** (ground floor café) serves artisan coffee, pastries and breakfasts – everything is house-made . **Harbour Society** (15th floor) offers fine casual dining with grill-centric, Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. They run a full breakfast and brunch on weekends, and dinner nightly. **HI-SO Rooftop** is a cocktail bar: signature drinks (e.g. the exclusive $18 “Pistachio Chocolate Martini” included) and a handful of global sharing-plates are its focus . Each venue has its own menu, so you can go bar-hopping (cocktails at HI-SO, then dessert at Harbour Society, for example).

Can I hold a private function or meeting at 67 Customs St E?

Yes. SO/Auckland markets itself as an events venue for corporate or private hire. The main ballroom (The Vault) accommodates up to 150 guests and includes staging and lighting . The smaller Gallery and Social Club spaces (80–200 m² each) can host 20–75 or up to 100 people for cocktail events . Packages include AV equipment and Wi-Fi . Contact the hotel’s events team (phone/email on-site) to discuss menus, table setup and pricing.

What was 67 Customs Street East before it became SO/Auckland?

It was originally the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s Auckland headquarters. Until 2018 the basement housed the city’s gold bullion vault. When ACCOR (Sofitel) bought the site, they converted it into SO/Auckland, preserving the sturdy vault door as part of the event space www.ticketfairy.com. The building opened as a hotel in Nov 2018 , blending its financial history (gold, marble) into the new hospitality concept.

Is photography allowed inside the venue?

Yes, guests commonly take photos of the décor and views. Non-flash photography is generally fine in public areas (lobby, dining rooms, lounge). At special events or concerts, photography rules may vary – often no flash during performances. If a private event is happening in a space, staff may ask you not to shoot. Be respectful in the lounge, and always follow any on-site signage about photography (some art installations or events might restrict it).

When are the harbour and city views best?

The best time for views is around sunset or on a clear day. HI-SO’s 16th-floor terrace offers sweeping views of Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island , which are particularly stunning as day turns to night. Harbour Society (15th floor) also has a large window facing north – ask for a seat on the window side. On a sunny afternoon, the rooftop sights are breathtaking; on a stormier day, they can be an impressive mood-setter (if you stay dry under the umbrellas).

Events at 67 Customs St E, Auckland, Auckland

La Terraza (The Rooftop Experience) Doorly [UK] & Javi Bora [ESP]

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