About AV Club
The AV Club is Auckland’s premier electronic music venue, housed in the historic Australis House building (built 1904) at 38 Customs Street East in the CBD . This intimate club (capacity ~200–500) is dedicated to underground dance music . The interior has an industrial-chic, minimalist vibe – bare brick walls, metal accents and dim lighting – with a glowing neon “DANCE OR DIE” sign over the DJ console that has become its iconic motto . Since opening in 2018 , AV Club has been a cornerstone of Auckland’s nightlife, earning a reputation as a high-quality audio-visual experience. It’s widely regarded as the heart of the city’s techno and house scene , helping define the local electronic music culture. The club is open-door (18+) and welcomes both visiting DJs and local up-and-comers, making it a must-visit for dance music fans of all backgrounds .
Events and Programming
【101†L14-L18†embed_image】AV Club packs its calendar with DJ-driven dance events almost every Friday and Saturday night (and many special-edition midweek parties) featuring local and international talent . A broad range of electronic genres is covered – tech house, techno, bass, breaks and more – reflecting the club’s “anything goes” approach to underground dance music . Promoters often line up top producers and DJs; for example, recent bookings have included Australian beat-maker Mall Grab (Dec 2022) and dub-funk legends Krafty Kuts & Plump DJs (Jun 2022) www.ticketfairy.com . Recurring events and residencies are common, with many nights dedicated to local collectives or themed nights. You’ll typically see crowds in their 20s-30s dancing non-stop until the early hours under swirling lights. Cover charges vary by event – small local nights might be just a few dollars or even free, while big-name shows can reach the $30–40 range. Check the AV Club’s official channels or promoter pages for each event’s lineup, ticket release and price (some shows list early-bird or door-sale tickets).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for AV Club events are usually sold by the event promoters or on specialist club-event sites (not mainstream ticket brokers). For big shows, tickets often go on sale 4–6 weeks in advance, with early-bird and VIP options sometimes available. It’s wise to book early for popular events; smaller local nights may offer walk-up door sales only if capacity remains. The venue itself has no traditional box office – instead, tickets are printed at the door or scanned from e-tickets. Keep an eye on social media or mailing lists from AV Club and local promoters for announcements and pre-sale codes. Typical ticket prices range from about $10 for club nights to $25+ for headline acts, depending on the talent and production level.
Seating and Layout
AV Club is laid out as a classic nightclub: a wide open dancefloor with standing room only, facing an elevated DJ booth. There are no general seats – most people stand or dance on the main floor. The custom-built bar (near the entrance) and a few ledge-top areas around the edges serve as the only places to perch. Some VIP/high-top areas away from the dancefloor give a bit of breathing room and views over the crowd . The best place to enjoy the show is usually on the dancefloor itself, near the front of the booth. If you prefer to people-watch or rest, the bar or side perimeter is suitable. Acoustically, the sound system is tuned for clear, punchy bass – being close to speakers means intense volume, so exit to the bar if you need a break. Watch out for pillars or the DJ booth structure blocking sightlines if you move to the side.
Getting There and Parking
【105†L14-L18†embed_image】AV Club sits in central Auckland (Customs Street East, in Britomart) right above the Britomart train and ferry hub. For public transit, the Britomart train station is only a short walk away, and there are numerous bus stops on nearby Queen and Britomart streets serving almost every bus route in the city . Ferry riders should disembark at the downtown terminals (Ferry Building or Queens). If driving, the closest parking is the Britomart Car Park (Wellington St/Lower Queen St), a 3-minute walk . This public lot offers approximately $2.50/hour parking (capped around $15–16 for evening/night) . Commercial Bay (31 Customs St West) also has a large Wilson Parking facility a block away (higher hourly rate). Street parking nearby is very limited. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are easiest just outside the venue on Customs Street. Plan extra time on weekend nights, and consider walking from downtown hotels or a central train stop if roads get busy.
Inside the Venue
【107†L14-L19†embed_image】Expect an energetic club atmosphere once inside. The door staff will check your ID (18+ required) and stamp your hand. A small coat-check area is usually available near the entrance (you may need coins or a small fee). There are no lockers and you cannot bring large bags or outside food/drinks. The low lighting and flashing lasers/bulbs set a “dark rave” mood, so stick near friends in the crowd. The bartenders serve a standard nightclub list – beer, wine, shots and mixed cocktails. Price-wise, drinks are somewhat expensive (typical for CBD clubs). Note that AV Club itself does not have a kitchen – food isn’t sold there. However, the sister speakeasy Caretaker Bar (hidden entrance nearby) and many restaurants on Fort Street are just steps away if you need to grab a bite. Speaking of special treats, merchandise like the famous “Dance or Die” t-shirts is sold at the venue . Wireless charge stations or phone lockers are not provided, so come with a full battery if you need to call home later. Cell phone service is usually fine, but Wi-Fi is not offered. Overall, inside the venue you’ll find a friendly (though tight) crowd dancing under high-fidelity sound and the club’s signature neon decor .
Nearby Amenities
The Britomart precinct around AV Club offers plenty for pre- and post-show plans. For dinner or drinks before the show, you’re spoiled for choice: casual eats like flatbreads, tacos or sushi are just around the corner, and upscale options (Italian, barista cafes, Pacific Rim fare) abound in Britomart and adjacent Fort Street. Popular spots include the hip Cassette 9 cocktail bar (one block away) and the laneway Nexus (a polished cocktail lounge). In the immediate area you’ll also find quick bites, gelato, and late-night shrine. After the club winds down, many nearby bars and late-hour diners stay open – options include speakeasy-style bars in Union St or 24-hour bakery cafes for a post-dance snack. For travelers, several hotels are within easy walking distance : the upscale Hotel Britomart, the modern Sofitel So/Auckland and the city’s central Mōvenpick are all in sight, as are serviced apartments (e.g. Auckland Harbour Suites, Fort Street lodge). If you plan to stay the night, booking in Britomart or the nearby CBD ensures a quick walk home after the club.
What Makes This Venue Special
AV Club stands out for its blend of vintage and cutting-edge style. The club occupies a heritage-listed warehouse (Australis House) with original brick and timber elements, giving it character that few purpose-built clubs have . Unlike noisy bars, AV Club’s focus is purely on dance music and sight – its club nights feature carefully crafted light shows and a top-tier sound system, making it feel like a mini-EDM festival each night. The neon “DANCE OR DIE” sign and the immersive multimedia décor reinforce this high-energy vibe . It has also become culturally significant: by consistently booking first-class local and international DJs, AV Club has helped keep Auckland on the global dance music map. Both artists and audiences frequently praise the club’s atmosphere, noting that it draws together seasoned party-goers and curious newcomers alike. Its central location (adjacent to Britomart Square) means you’re in the heart of the action – when AV Club is pumping, the whole waterfront neighborhood buzzes. The result is a club experience that feels very “Auckland”: tech-forward, creative, and community-oriented, rather than a generic nightclub. This is why many DJs and fans cite AV Club as a highlight of the city’s nightlife .
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring a valid photo ID every time – strict ID checks are enforced and you must be 18+ (no minors allowed after-hours). Cash is accepted at the bar, but cards (including NZ EFTPOS) work too – just note transactions may be slow. There’s no formal dress code, but anglers recommend “smart casual” club attire (e.g. jeans or slacks with a nice shirt). Avoid obvious sportswear or very casual streetwear (some people report being turned away in flashy sports jerseys). If you plan to dance, remove jackets and oversized coats at the door (a cloakroom is limited). Tip: earplugs can save your hearing, as the sound is loud and sub-heavy. Do not bring outside drinks or illegal items – any contraband (like hard liquor bottles or weapons) will be confiscated and you’ll be refused entry. Photography for personal use is fine, but professional camera rigs are not permitted. The club floor is often crowded, so wear comfortable shoes and keep personal items secure. If you want a break from dancing, head to the fringe of the dancefloor or bar area where it’s quieter. Keep an eye on your friends at the entrance: on busy nights it can drop off crowd quickly, and door staff sometimes limit re-entry once stamped. If you’re arriving early (5–7pm), you might enjoy AV Club’s informal happy hour deals: they’ve been known to run cheap beer promotions and set up outdoor seating (especially on weekends) – a good time for early arrivals. Finally, plan your departure ahead: the Britomart train is nearby, buses run late on Queen St, and taxis/rideshares can easily pick you up outside. For late-night safe travel, there are also many 24/7 hotel shuttles and night buses from Britomart station back to North Shore or suburbs.
How do I get tickets for AV Club events?
Tickets are typically sold through the event promoter or AV Club’s official channels. Look for announcements on promoters’ websites or social media (e.g. local EDM promoters, club event pages). There is no physical box office; most tickets are e-tickets printed onsite. Smaller club nights may offer door sales, but big shows often sell out in advance. Early purchase is recommended.
What does AV Club’s capacity and layout look like?
AV Club is an intimate dance club with a “XS” capacity (around 200–500 people) . It has a single large room with a central dance floor, a raised DJ booth at one end, and standing-room only. There are a few ledges or VIP corners along the sides, but no formal seating. The bar is at the rear. It feels open but can fill up quickly on busy nights.
What music genres and events does AV Club host?
AV Club focuses on electronic dance music. You’ll often hear techno, tech house, deep house, bass and drum’n’bass depending on the night. The club features local and international DJs; past events have ranged from rising Kiwi producers to acts like Mall Grab and Krafty Kuts www.ticketfairy.com . Regular club nights are usually on Fri/Sat (though the venue sometimes hosts parties through the week). Check the event listings to see each night’s style.
How do I get to AV Club and is parking available?
AV Club’s address is 38 Customs Street East in downtown Auckland (Britomart precinct). If using public transport, the Britomart Train & Ferry Station is just a few blocks away . Many city buses also stop nearby on Queen St or in the Britomart area. For drivers, the Britomart public car park (on Lower Queen St) is a 3-minute walk, with rates around NZ$2.50/hour (capped at ~$15 late-night) . There’s also a large Wilson Park at Commercial Bay (31 Customs St West). Street parking is scarce, so public transit or rideshare is easiest.
Is AV Club accessible by wheelchair?
AV Club is at street level in a historic building, but check in advance if wheelchair access is needed. There may be one or two small steps at the entrance. Inside is one open space (no balconies). The toilets and bar areas are standard club-style. There is no dedicated elevator or permanent ramp mentioned. If accessibility is critical, it’s best to call the venue or promoters to confirm arrangements before visiting.
What should I wear to AV Club?
There is no strict dress code, but smart-casual is recommended. Most patrons wear jeans or neat pants with a nice shirt or top. Avoid very casual sportswear (e.g. soccer jerseys or gym shorts), as some guests have reported being turned away for very casual attire. Dress for comfort on the dance floor, but remember that this is a trendy downtown venue – wearing stylish, comfortable club attire is a good idea.
What are AV Club’s age and ID policies?
AV Club is strictly for 18+ patrons (no under-18s) because alcohol is served on site. You’ll need to show a valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s license) at the door. If you’re caught without ID, you will be refused entry. Once inside, a hand stamp is used for re-entry. (For special all-ages events or private hires, the rules would be announced in advance, but by default expect R18 only.)
Can I bring a camera or record video inside?
Personal cameras and phones are fine for photos and videos. GoPros or DSLRs can be used discreetly for personal footage. However, professional camera equipment or large rigs are not allowed. Always respect artists and fellow patrons – many come to enjoy the music. If in doubt, ask the staff. Note that flash photography is strongly discouraged (it can disrupt DJs and others).
Is there a coat check or lockers at AV Club?
Yes, AV Club typically has a cloakroom area near the entrance for coats and large bags (often operated on a first-come basis for a small fee or donation). However, space is limited. Do not bring large backpacks. Keep your belongings minimal – the main floor will be crowded. Wallets, phones and other valuables should be kept on you or in a secured inner pocket while dancing.
What is the significance of the “Dance or Die” sign at AV Club?
The neon “Dance or Die” sign is the club’s signature slogan and is mounted near the DJ booth. It reflects the club’s all-night ethos and passion for dance music . Many guests even buy themed merchandise with this phrase. It’s essentially AV Club’s motto – a tongue-in-cheek way of saying “keep dancing!” – and a very recognizable part of the venue’s décor.
Can I smoke inside AV Club?
No. New Zealand law bans indoor smoking in all bars and nightclubs. AV Club is a smoke-free indoor environment. If you need to smoke or vape, you must step outside to designated areas (usually on the street outside). Alcohol and smoke do not mix inside due to health regulations.
What nights is AV Club open?
AV Club mainly hosts events on Friday and Saturday nights, when big club parties draw crowds. Some months also have event nights on Thursdays or Sundays, especially for special promotions or guest DJ appearances. There is no regular live program on weeknights unless a promoter specifically books it. For accurate schedules, check AV Club’s own social media or promoters’ event pages each month.
Are outside drinks or food allowed inside AV Club?
No. Like most nightclubs, AV Club does not allow outside food or drinks. All alcohol and soft drinks must be purchased at the bar. You may bring an empty reusable water bottle if you need it between drinks. The only food-related items permitted might be snacks you’ve eaten beforehand or medication; otherwise you’ll need to step outside if you want to eat.
Can I get refunds on tickets?
Refund policies are set by the event promoter, not by AV Club. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless the event is canceled. Some promoters allow ticket resales if you can find a buyer (watch for official resale info). Check the specific event page or ticket confirmation for any refund or exchange terms. If an event is postponed or canceled, organizers will usually post refund details.
Is the venue friendly for foreign travelers?
Yes. Auckland is very multicultural and AV Club welcomes internationals. That said, entry is strictly 18+, so you must have a valid international ID (passport) if you’re visiting. Staff typically speak English, and the crowd is friendly to tourists. Just note that bar prices are in NZD and tipping is not customary. Enjoy the club as part of your Kiwi nightlife experience!
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