About 7 Shortland Street
At 7 Shortland Street in Auckland’s CBD you’ll find The Mothership – a cutting-edge live music venue and nightclub. Opened in mid-2022, it quickly earned a reputation as a “hidden gem” and hub for dance and live shows (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Mothership occupies a renovated heritage building from the 1930s (www.trademe.co.nz ), blending retro industrial style with modern club design. Inside, an “industrial basement vibe” prevails: there are dark, cosy lounge areas and two full bars serving beer, wine and cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ), plus a large open dance floor. The sound system is a major draw – reviewers note it as “one of the heaviest, state-of-the-art sound systems in Auckland” (www.ticketfairy.com ), giving music a powerful, room-shaking quality. Capacity is modest (around 300 people) (www.ticketfairy.com ), so the space stays intimate, with fans able to get right up near the stage. Furniture and partitions are movable, meaning promoters reconfigure the floorplan for each event to create a fresh vibe. In short, 7 Shortland Street is known for its top-tier audio-visual setup, lively atmosphere and central downtown location in Auckland’s entertainment precinct.
Events and Programming
The Mothership offers a diverse mix of events, focusing heavily on electronic and dance music. Common nights include house, techno and drum & bass parties, as well as hip-hop and R&B nights. Local DJs and crews (e.g. 4AM Auckland, Meraki, GoodGrief) frequently throw themed club nights here, and the venue also hosts touring international acts. On occasion it even turns into a live-music space for rock or indie concerts. For example, past lineups have featured NZ drum&bass duo State of Mind, dubstep producer 12th Planet, and tech-house headliner Steve Bug (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Mothership itself promotes “exciting variety” every weekend, ranging from live bands and hip-hop to drum&bass, house and techno (www.themothership.co.nz ). Recurring events vary – look out for resident club brands and weekly parties, as well as one-off special shows. Ticket pricing depends on the event: typical club-night tickets run from around NZ$20–35, while all-night parties or concert events are often in the NZ$35–40 range (www.ticketfairy.com ). (As an example, a recent anniversary dance event had advance tickets ~NZ$34.90 (www.ticketfairy.com ).) In general, casual club gigs are very affordable, and more elaborate tour shows carry a higher cover.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for 7 Shortland Street shows are usually sold in advance online. The venue has no physical box office; instead, purchase tickets via the official Mothership website or authorized ticket partners. As a rule, it’s best to buy early: popular DJ nights and international act gigs can sell out (www.ticketfairy.com ), so monitor the venue’s announcements and grab tickets as soon as they go on sale. For many regular club nights or smaller events, tickets remain available until the night itself, and a limited number may be sold at the door if the show isn’t sold out (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are often presale mailing lists or social-media alerts – sign up or follow the venue to catch those. In short, check official event listings well before the date, plan to purchase tickets in advance for big shows, and if a show isn’t sold out you can sometimes pay at the door on event night (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Mothership’s interior is largely general-admission standing, with a big open dance floor at its core. Around the edges are lounge-style seats and cocktail tables for resting or socialising. There are no fixed “theatre” seats – instead everything is flexible. In fact, organizers can move walls and furniture to re-shape the space between events (www.themothership.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, for a DJ event the best viewing spots tend to be up against the floor or left/right wings of the stage area, where you’ll feel the sound and lights up close. The lounge seating and raised platforms along the sides offer a more relaxed vantage (good for catching a break without missing the view). From anywhere on the floor the sound is excellent thanks to the club’s top-end PA. (As one description notes, The Mothership has “lounge seating” and two bars flanking the dance floor (www.ticketfairy.com ).) There is no upper balcony – it’s a single-level venue – so there are no “bad” sightlines, though of course the front half of the crowd sees and hears most directly. In short: this is mostly a standing-room club with some low, cosy seating zones off to the sides, giving all guests good access to the stage and the sound system.
Getting There and Parking
7 Shortland Street sits in the heart of Auckland’s city centre, a short block south of Queen Street. It’s easily walked to from major downtown spots – for instance, Britomart train and bus station is only 5–10 minutes’ walk north on Fort Street. Most inner-city buses stop near Queen Street (on the corner of Shortland or High Streets) a couple of blocks away. After hours, city “NiteRider” buses run along Queen, and night trains generally terminate around midnight at Britomart. Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Ola) can drop off right on Shortland Street or the corner of Queen and Vulcan Lane (both are very close). On foot, look for the discreet entrance under the heritage facade at 7 Shortland.
Parking is limited in the immediate area. There are a few nearby lots: for example Wilson Parking operates a small lot at 51 Shortland Street (casual rates roughly NZ$7 for the first hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz )), and the City’s Shortland Street carpark at 71 Shortland (behind Civic Theatre) has about 375 spaces at ~$2.02 per hour (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). However, the CBD street parking is very tight, especially at night. Many patrons instead drive to a larger lot a block or two away (or park in larger downtown garages on Queen/Elizabeth). A safer bet for most visitors is public transport or a rideshare drop-off at the venue entrance. Note that the area is flat but busy – wear comfortable shoes if you walk from a nearby carpark or transit hub.
Inside the Venue
What to expect stepping into 7 Shortland Street: there is a single entrance with attendants checking ID and tickets. You must be 18+ (photo ID required) to enter. Security will typically pat down or garage-check bags, so carry only what you need. Once inside, you’ll encounter a dark, clubby interior with two bars (one on each side) and lounge seating sections. The sound is loud and bass-heavy; many fans bring earplugs for comfort. Lighting is dynamic – moving beams and strobes create a constantly shifting atmosphere. Drinks are available at the bars (beer, wine, cocktails) (www.ticketfairy.com ); no outside alcohol is allowed. The venue is indoors only – there’s no outdoor smoking area inside, so smoking is only permitted on public sidewalks after exiting (NZ law forbids indoor smoking in bars). Restrooms (male/female) are located near the back or sides of the space. Some venues of this style offer a coat check or cloakroom for a small fee – it’s wise to check at the door if one is available on the night of your event. The staff are generally cited as helpful and friendly. Wi-Fi is usually not provided, so assume you’ll use mobile data. In summary: expect a typical club entry – ID and ticket checkpoints, no large bags, and a high-energy dance space inside.
Nearby Amenities
Being in the CBD, 7 Shortland Street is surrounded by all the amenities of downtown Auckland. For pre-show dining or caffeine fixes, several eateries and cafes are within a 5-minute walk. On Shortland Street itself you’ll find casual spots like a 24-hour café/deli (the Shortland Street Cafe) and a sushi bar. One block north on Queen Street there are big-chain and local restaurants (pizza, burger, Asian, etc.) and fast-casual outlets. Britomart Station (5–10 minutes’ walk east) has dozens of restaurants and bars on its lower floors and wharf; popular options include seafood eateries or redesigns like Depot and White & Wong for an upscale meal. Nearby high-rise hotels like Rendezvous (Queen Street) and Park Hyatt (also Queen/Princes) welcome late-night patrons to their bars and restaurants. Right around the corner on High Street and Vulcan Lane you’ll discover cozy cocktail lounges or brewpubs for drinks before or after a show. In short, you won’t go hungry or thirsty – from cheap takeaway to nicer bistro fare is all within walking distance. As for late-night departures, hailing a cab or rideshare works (Common pick-up is on Shortland or Queen). Also be aware that after midnight most trains are done, so plan your journey home (Uber/Ubers or night buses) when booking late events.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Mothership’s combination of high-end production and creative freedom sets it apart. It’s built specifically for music and performance, not just repurposed space – local media calls it “forward-thinking” and “detail-driven” (www.aucklandnz.com ). Every event is treated like an experience. Discover Auckland (the city’s official guide) praises it as “a dynamic hub where sound, art, and atmosphere are constantly reimagined” (www.aucklandnz.com ), and says each show transforms the space into “something new and unforgettable” (www.aucklandnz.com ). The venue’s art-lined walls and dramatic lighting give it a visually rich feel, too. Culture-wise, it fills a niche by combining a raw underground vibe with first-rate sound and lighting tech. It has quickly become a key part of Auckland’s nightlife economy, drawing crowds that also patronize nearby shops and restaurants. By supporting a mix of homegrown and international acts, it nurtures the local music scene. In short, both fans and artists love 7 Shortland Street because it feels special – the juxtaposition of an old brick building with a cutting-edge sound system, plus the freedom to make each night unique, delivers what many call an “out-of-this-world” clubbing experience.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building has level entrances and accessible facilities (an elevator services the floors), making it wheelchair-friendly. The layout is open and flat once inside. Restrooms include accessible stalls. If you have other needs (e.g. limited mobility), the staff can assist with seating or arrangements on request.
What to Bring & Wear: You’ll need valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s licence) and your ticket. It’s best to wear comfortable club attire – smart casual is typical (jeans, sneakers, etc.). High heels are okay but not recommended on the dance floor. Bring some cash or have a card handy for drinks. Many people carry a small bag (purse or sling) for phone/wallet; large backpacks will likely be refused. Earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to bass. Layer up lightly – it can get hot on the dance floor but cool off by the doors or bars.
Arrival Time: Doors usually open around 9 PM for most events (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). For sold-out shows, consider arriving early (30–60 minutes before door time) to avoid the line. Otherwise you can also arrive closer to start time. If you arrive late, entry is generally still allowed until around midnight, but you may miss early performances. Plan at least 10–15 minutes extra travel time for weekends (taxi or foot) due to city traffic.
Age & Entry Rules: Every event is strictly 18+ (no minors at all) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). NZ law and venue policy require checking ID at the door – no ID means no entry. There is typically no re-entry once you leave (so once you go out, you can’t come back in on the same ticket). Keep an eye on your belongings, as the club is busy; there’s usually a limited coatroom or lockers provided for safely storing coats and small items.
Drinks & Food: Only drinks purchased at the bar are allowed. Expect standard club drink prices (beer/wine/cider around NZ$8–12 apiece, cocktails NZ$12+). Some events may sell packaged snacks (chips/grips), but full meals are not served. Water fountains may or may not be available inside. If you want food before the show, the nearby restaurants (see above) have plenty of late-night options.
Prohibited Items: No outside alcohol, no illegal drugs, no weapons or fireworks, and no professional photo/video gear without permission. Small phones and cameras for personal use are usually fine (no video recording of DJs, please). Bag checks are routine. Most clothing is fine except any gang-affiliated or overly revealing attire (dress code is casual but respectful). If in doubt, call the venue ahead – they can clarify any other rules (for example, complimentary tickets might have special conditions).
Transit & Parking: If you’re planning to drive, remember the city’s strict parking enforcement. Use one of the nearby parking buildings or a paid street-space, and note any timed restrictions. If taking public transit, the last trains run around midnight, and later you’ll need to use night buses or rideshare. There are commuter trains to Britomart and many bus routes along Queen Street – both are within a short walk. Late at night, Uber or taxis can often queue near the corner of Queen and Shortland. Always plan your way home before you go (check the Auckland Transport website for night-bus schedules, or arrange a pickup).
Common Mistakes: Avoid assuming big events have on-site parking or guaranteed tickets at the door. Also, don’t mistake “Shortland Street” (the soap opera location) for this address – the club is unrelated to the TV show, despite the shared name. Dress for a night out rather than a casual bar. And remember: no ID means no entry – this is strictly enforced. Lastly, keep an eye on your phone; there’s limited cell range inside due to the concrete walls, so locate text messages or ticket QR codes ahead of time to avoid scan delays.
By preparing for these details, you’ll enjoy everything 7 Shortland Street has to offer: a state-of-the-art clubbing experience in Auckland’s city heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of 7 Shortland Street and is it a standing or seated venue?
The venue (The Mothership) holds around 300 people at most (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s primarily a standing-room club; there is no reserved seating or balconies. However, there are lounge-style benches and bar stools around the edges for resting. Most visitors stand on the dance floor or near the stage to enjoy the shows.
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices vary by event. Club nights are often in the ~$20–35 range (sometimes higher for big shows) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Tickets are sold online through the club’s official website or event promoters; there’s no daytime box office on site (www.ticketfairy.com ). For popular DJs or international acts, buy early as they may sell out. If a show isn’t sold out, a small number of tickets might be available at the door on the night (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the age limit for events at 7 Shortland Street?
All events at this venue are 18+ (adults only). You must show a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) to enter. No one under 18 is permitted in regardless of ticket. This rule is strictly enforced for every show.
Is there parking available at 7 Shortland Street?
There’s no private parking lot for the venue itself. Nearby options include city parking buildings. For example, a big multi-storey at 71 Shortland Street has about 375 spaces (~NZ$2.00 per hour) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). Wilson Parking also operates a lot at 51 Shortland Street (around NZ$7 to start) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Street parking is very limited and strictly enforced. Most people take public transit or a rideshare drop-off instead.
How do I get to 7 Shortland Street using public transport?
The venue is a few minutes’ walk south of Queen Street. The closest train station is Britomart (about 5–10 min walk). Many buses stop on nearby Queen or Quay Streets, including late-night routes. If you take the Airport Link or city buses, get off near Victoria/Queen or Commerce/Queen and walk a block south. After midnight, buses are limited – a taxi or rideshare from downtown may be more reliable late at night.
What is the dress code at the venue?
The dress code is casual but neat. Clubbers typically wear jeans, t-shirts or smart casual clothes. No sportswear or beachwear is recommended. Footwear should be comfortable for dancing. Flip-flops or thongs are allowed for entry but aren’t great on the crowd floor. If in doubt, dress like you’re going to a nice bar/club; definitely avoid overly beachy or ragged outfits.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed inside the club?
Smartphone snapshots are generally fine, but professional cameras or tripods are not allowed unless you have express permission. Flash photography on the dance floor is discouraged (it can blind performers or other guests). Video recording is usually disallowed by policy. If you want to take lots of photos, stick to your phone and be discreet, and never use flash.
Can I get a refund or transfer my ticket if I can’t attend?
That depends on the event organizer. The Mothership itself typically does not handle refunds – you would deal with the ticket seller (e.g. Ticket Fairy or Moshtix) before the event. Check the terms when you buy. Usually tickets are non-refundable but may be transferable if allowed by the promoter. If the show is cancelled or postponed, the ticketing website will post instructions on refunds or re-scheduling.
Does the venue have wheelchair access?
Yes. The entrance is at street level and inside the club is a flat, open layout. There is an elevator that serves the building’s floors. Accessible restrooms are available. Overall the venue is designed to be wheelchair-friendly, and staff can assist if needed. You may want to notify the venue in advance so they can prepare any specific accommodations.
What items are prohibited at the club?
Common prohibited items include outside alcohol or food, weapons of any kind, illegal drugs, and pets (service animals excepted). Weapons or sharp objects are banned. Large backpacks or suitcases will likely be refused at security. Expect purses or clear tote bags only. Smoking is not allowed indoors (NZ law), so smoking is allowed only on the street outside. Otherwise, standard nightclub rules apply: polite behaviour is required, and respect staff instructions.
Are there early bird or last-minute ticket deals?
Events sometimes have tiered pricing (cheaper advance prices and higher late prices). If a promoter offers a presale, those often sell out quickly. There aren’t usually “walk-up discounts” announced, but occasionally unsold tickets at the door are sold at a slightly lower rate. The best strategy is to watch for presale codes (via social media or newsletters) and buy early. If buying last-minute on tough nights, arrive very early to try securing the remaining tickets before they sell out.
Is there a coat check or lockers available?
A coat check may be provided on some nights (usually for a small fee), but it is not guaranteed. If you have a large coat or bag, check with staff at the door. Some people keep belongings on seats or bars, but this carries risk. For valuables, it’s best to travel light. If you expect needing storage, consider leaving coats in your car or at a nearby hotel cloakroom as a backup plan.
What are the door opening times and event hours?
Most events have doors open around 9:00 PM and run until 3–4 AM (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Schedules can vary by event, but generally it’s a late-night venue (especially Thursday–Saturday). The exact opening and closing times are listed on each event’s tickets or promotion, so check your purchase confirmation. Note that last entry is often around midnight, even if the party goes on after that.
Are there age restrictions for certain types of events (besides 18+)?
No, all events at 7 Shortland Street require attendees to be 18 or over. There are no “all ages” shows at this venue due to its bar license. Keep in mind that special guest lists (for example, industry or student promos) still enforce the 18+ rule. Always carry ID if you’re near 18 to avoid denial at the door.
Is photography allowed and can I share images/videos?
Amateur photos (with a phone or small camera) without flash are usually fine for personal use on social media. However, avoid filming or taking video during performances; many DJs and acts have a no‐photo/video policy. Flash photography is discouraged as it can disturb the show. If you see photographers with professional gear or press passes, that’s a sign pro recording is happening. When in doubt, ask a staff member: they’ll tell you whether photography is permitted.
Are drinks expensive at the venue’s bar?
Drink prices are typical for a city nightclub. Expect beers and ciders to be around NZ$8–12, and basic cocktails in the $12–15 range. Spirits and premixed drinks are similarly priced. Happy hours or specials (if offered) will be advertised on the night or via the venue’s social media. Keep in mind New Zealand taxes and service charges are included in posted prices. Also note: there’s often a 10-15% service fee on card transactions, which some bars add.
Is there a dress code or attire guideline?
There’s no official dress code printed, but people generally dress up a bit for a club night. Nice jeans, shirts or casual dresses are common. You won’t need a jacket or tie – think smart casual. Some themed or VIP nights may encourage a certain style (e.g. costume or all-black for hardcore events), but these will be advertised in advance. The safest bet is tidy, comfortable clubwear.
How early should I arrive before the event start?
For most events, arriving 30–60 minutes before the advertised door time is wise. This ensures you get through the queue and security without missing any early performances. If it’s a free-entry or small event that isn’t expected to sell out, you can arrive closer to start time (an hour after doors) and still get in. For big named acts, getting there well before opening is best to avoid jams at the door.
