About Basalt
Basalt is a two‐storey rooftop bar and pub-restaurant in Howick Village (East Auckland). The venue opened about 20–25 years ago as one of Monteith’s original brewpubs in Auckland and is now part of the Star Group chain. It’s best known as a local hangout – a friendly “home away from home” for Howick residents . Basalt sits on a prominent corner at 127 Picton Street, with large bi-fold doors that open onto a deck and an upstairs open-air bar. The top-floor rooftop offers a 180° panorama of Howick (some water views at a distance) . Inside, the bright, contemporary space features a fireplace and dining area, serving modern pub/European cuisine. In short, Basalt’s unique mix of indoor comfort and sunny rooftop deck – plus Monteith’s beers on tap and its “stonegrill” concept – makes it stand out in Auckland’s pub scene .
Events and Programming
Basalt primarily hosts casual social events rather than big concerts. Every weekend it runs live music nights: on Friday evenings a rotating lineup of DJs and on Saturday nights a resident DJ (DJ Giggles) typically spins tunes from 9pm til late . Basalt also holds a weekly pub quiz every Thursday evening (around 6:30pm) . Special nights such as themed parties, funk nights or quiz competitions appear from time to time. The venue often screens major sports (rugby, football, UFC, etc.) on large TVs, making it popular for watching games. Seasonal and holiday events (Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve bashes) are also advertised each year. While it isn’t a major concert hall, Basalt does sometimes host live local acts. For example, Kiwi singer Tazman Jack played a series of Friday night gigs in 2018–2019 . Generally, most events (except big ticketed functions) have free admission , and cover charges are rare. Giveaways, trivia prizes or food/drink specials often accompany these nights, helping Basalt maintain its reputation as a “gem of Howick Village” .
Tickets and Booking
For everyday nights at Basalt you usually do not need tickets or pre-purchased passes – it operates like a standard pub. Entry is free for most events . For any special ticketed event (for example, a holiday dinner or private concert), an announcement is made in advance on Basalt’s social channels or posters in the venue. In general, the best way to plan is to check Basalt’s website or call ahead (09 533 0081) for any upcoming events. Since weekends can be busy, it’s wise to reserve a table in advance via the Basalt/Star Group booking system; otherwise it’s first-come, first-served for walk-in guests. Pricing of food and drinks is mid-range – mains run roughly NZ$20–$35 and beers/cocktails around NZ$7–$18. You pay at the bar or by table-service when you dine; there is no separate box office or strict ticket tiers.
Seating and Layout
Basalt’s layout is split between an indoor restaurant/bar level and an upstairs covered roof deck. On the ground floor you’ll find a cosy restaurant and bar area (with a large fireplace at one end). The restaurant seats about 30 diners, and the bar/lounge adds roughly another 20 standing spots . Upstairs is the open-air “Half Gazebo” rooftop bar – an L-shaped deck with a covered bar section and open sides . That deck has roughly 180° views and can host cocktails or events for 40–60 people seated (up to ~100 for a standing mingle session) . Inside, tables and booths fill the restaurant (some semi-private areas flank a lounge with fireplace), and there are high tables and stools around the bar. Outdoors, there are patio tables and stools on the deck. Best seats depend on your vibe: inside by the fire is cosy for dinner, while outside on the deck is great for sunset drinks. Because the space is mostly open, sound from DJs carries across both levels, so if you want quieter chat pick the downstairs seating. Overall, the flow is casual – on busy nights people stream to both floors, and there are TV screens on the rooftop for events . The venue is unreserved, so for prime spots (especially on Fri/Sat nights) arrive early to grab a sofa or deck table.
Getting There and Parking
Basalt is in Howick Village, about 15km southeast of Auckland CBD. The exact address is 127 Picton Street, Howick . By car, take Ti Rakau Drive or Ridge Road to East Tamaki, then turn onto Picton Street. Street parking is available around Howick Village, though most spots are 2-hour zones so plan ahead. There are pay-and-display lots – notably one beside Howick Historical Village (75 Bells Road) – a 3–5 minute walk from Basalt. If those are full, you can circle nearby streets or drop off as a passenger. Drink-driving laws are strict, so consider rideshares (Uber/Ola) or taxis; Picton Street has a marked taxi/ride‐share drop-off area right by the bar. Public transit: Auckland Transport buses serve Howick (Routes 72, 72C, 72X, 70, 711 and others go via Howick Central). The 72X express runs from the city (Britomart) to Howick via Panmure and stops near Basalt. Light rail isn’t there yet, but there is a ferry from downtown Auckland to Half Moon Bay; from Half Moon Bay ferry terminal catch the Go Bus (Route 735) or a taxi to Howick if you prefer sea view. In summary, by road Basalt is easy to reach off the main highways via Howick, and there are both public bus options and street parking (short-term parking is free/2-hour in the village , with longer parking further out).
Inside the Venue
Entering Basalt, expect a relaxed pub atmosphere. There’s a single main entrance on Picton Street. Staff will typically scan ID for anyone appearing under 25 after 8pm (New Zealand ID laws apply). Security checks (bag searches) are uncommon but possible on busy nights. Inside, you’ll find exposed brick and wood, local art, dimmed lighting, and the comfortable hum of conversation or music. If it’s a quiz or quieter evening, the interior restaurant area feels more conversational; if DJs are playing, the vibe is lively down by the bar. Basalt does not have a coat check – store loose items at your table or on the floor stands. They offer free Wi-Fi, and many outlets (power sockets) can be found near seating areas if you need to charge devices . Restrooms (including a wheelchair-accessible bathroom) are down a corridor on the main floor. The rooftop bar also has a smaller bar area, plus an auxiliary restroom at deck level. For food and drink, Basalt has a full kitchen, open until around 9pm (and late-night bar snacks), plus Monteith’s craft beers on tap, NZ wines, ciders and creative cocktails . If you’re hungry, staff serve table orders – try share platters or their signature stonegrill dishes (you'll cook searing-hot meats/seafood on a lava-rock slab at your table, as Basalt advertises ). Liquor licences are observed: drinkers must be accompanied by an adult and might need photo ID after 10pm. In short, expect good pub food and drink served in a lively, unfastidious setting, with friendly service. The place is well-staffed, so even on busy nights you should get service reasonably promptly, and staff happily explain menu items or evening specials.
Nearby Amenities
Howick Village is packed with good pre- or post-show options. Immediately next door is Chapel (Picton Cinemas) if you want to catch a movie before dinner. Within strolling distance you’ll find several cafés and eateries – for example, Arthouse Coffee on Picton Street is a popular spot for brunch or a coffee, and Bodega Bistro (also on Picton) offers New Zealand-inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting. The Corner Bar & Restaurant (just around the corner) is another casual pub right by Howick’s main roundabout. For international foods, there’s a local Indian restaurant and a couple of Asian fusion spots on nearby St Johns Road. If you need to stock up on snacks or drinks before going in, Howick has a small supermarket and liquor store on Bassett Road (a 10-minute walk) and a BP Connect on Ti Rakau. For evening plans, there are a few bars within a block or two; otherwise, central East Auckland is just a 5–10 minute drive away (the Pakuranga area has hotels and more bars if you’re staying overnight). Nearby hotels and motels tend to be in Pakuranga or around Ti Rakau (15–20 min drive), or along the Panmure bridge area. After closing, late-night buses on route 72/72X may be sparse, so many locals use taxis/Ubers. In wet weather, note Howick’s main street is flat and easy to walk. The Howick Historical Village (a preserved 19th-century village) is a 3-minute walk from Basalt for daytime sightseeing. In short, Basalt is surrounded by plenty of pre-show dining spots, a cinema, and parking or transit hubs, making it easy to combine with a meal or mini-bar crawl in Howick.
What Makes This Venue Special
Basalt stands out for its blend of local heritage and fun features. It was among the first Monteith’s bars in Auckland, and it still feels like the quintessential Kiwiana pub – somewhere people return to again and again. Uniquely, it has a cascading two-level design: stepping out of the sheltered downstairs bar onto the upper deck feels like escaping to a sunlit terrace. Its “Half Gazebo” rooftop bar (open air on top of the building) is famous for sunsets and how it overlooks the whole village . The stonegrill dining is another signature – it’s not every pub that lets you cook your own steak on volcanic rock! Architecturally, the big glass windows and bi-fold doors give it an indoor/outdoor feel , and the view from upstairs of Howick’s main intersection, park, and bay is hard to beat. Culturally, Basalt has seen nearly two decades of family dinners, first dates and Friday night celebrations. Locally it’s known for friendly staff, community spirit (trust the bartenders to remember your favourite drink), and quirky specials like $10 pizzas Thursday or big-meat-eating challenges (occasionally run by the “Carnivore Club”). Many Aucklanders old enough to remember will recall this spot as part of old Howick; it’s become a sort of unofficial community centre for gatherings. In short, artists and audiences love Basalt not because it’s top-shelf concert containing, but because it feels like an old friend: warm, lively, and with the best Kiwi pub food and beers under the sky .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Basalt has ramp access and an accessible restroom – it welcomes wheelchairs and mobility-aids (and prams) with no extra entry fees. Service animals are of course allowed. Age policy: It’s family-friendly during the day and early evening. Children can dine through dinner; after nightfall the venue transforms into a bar scene and under-18s are asked to leave by about 10pm (drinks license rules). ID requirements: You will be asked for photographic ID (NZ driver’s license, passport or Kiwi 18+ card) if you want alcohol and look under 25. No ID means no liquor. Dress code: There’s no strict dress code. Couples might dress up a notch for a date night upstairs, but generally it’s smart-casual (no athletic gear or beachwear after hours). What to bring: Mostly just yourself and valid ID! The weather can be windy up on the deck, so bring a light jacket on cooler nights. If you have tickets or a reservation, show the confirmation on your phone or mention it. Avoid bringing large bags or unshielded alcohol inside (basically no BYO drinks). Bag/Photography policy: Normal handbag/backpack is fine, but expect a quick bag check if there’s a major event. You’re welcome to take photos for personal use; the staff won’t mind. Peak times: Friday and Saturday from 7pm to midnight is very busy (especially as people finish work), so consider arriving earlier if you can. Pub quiz nights (Thurs) also fill quickly. Generally plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before any event to find seats. Payment: Basalt takes cash and cards (chip & tap) at table or bar. There’s no ATM on site, so bring enough or use a nearby bank in Howick Village first. Parking/public transit: If you drive, read the street signs carefully – most short-term parking in Howick is limited to 1–2 hours (hint: some drivers park a block away to avoid time limits). Buses 72 and 72X drop off on Picton St; the Half Moon Bay ferry runs to nearby ferry, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to Howick. If going late, Uber/taxi is safest since buses taper off after 11pm. Weather considerations: The upstairs deck is partially sheltered but still outdoors – if it’s a downpour, many will stay downstairs. In winter, there are heaters upstairs but it can be chilly, so dress warmly for the rooftop. Sunscreen and a hat are wise in summer afternoons (the “sun-drenched corner” really lives up to its name ).Insider tip: Be on the lookout for daily deals (for example, $10 pizzas or 2-for-1 specials), usually posted on chalkboards. Also, if you can, visit on a sunny afternoon – local regulars will tell you few things beat a cold beer on Basalt’s deck watching the sun set over the village. In any case, a cautious but hearty appetite and ID will guarantee a great time at Basalt!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Basalt, and where is it located?
Basalt is a pub, restaurant and rooftop bar in Howick, East Auckland. It’s at 127 Picton Street, Howick , in Howick Village. It occupies a corner building with an upstairs deck. The venue opened roughly 20–25 years ago and has since been a popular locals’ bar and eatery .
Do I need to buy tickets to get into Basalt?
No, general admission to Basalt is free. On most nights you can simply walk in or book a table without a cover charge . Only special events (e.g. big concerts or fancy holiday dinners) would require tickets, and those are announced ahead of time. So unless you’ve seen a ticketed event listing, you don’t need a ticket to visit Basalt.
When is Basalt open each day?
Basalt is open daily from midday onward (closing times vary by day). Typical hours are: Monday 12pm–9pm, Tues/Wed 12pm–10pm, Thursday 12pm–11pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm–1am, and Sunday 12pm–9pm . On certain holidays the hours may change, so it’s good to check if you plan an event or special dinner.
What events and entertainment does Basalt offer?
Basalt’s regular entertainment includes live DJ music every Friday and Saturday night, and a pub quiz each Thursday evening . They also frequently screen sports on TV. Occasionally Basalt hosts live bands or local artists (for example, it has been a gig venue for Kiwi singer Tazman Jack in past years ). Holiday events (Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve dances) are also held, and any ticketed events will be advertised in advance. Most nights besides these have a casual bar atmosphere.
How can I reserve a table or get tickets for a special night?
You can book a table at Basalt by contacting the venue directly (via their official site or phone) if you want to guarantee seating, especially on busy nights. For special ticketed events, details will be posted on Basalt’s site or social media – you would usually buy through whichever promoter is handling the event. In general, for regular evenings a quick phone call or online reservation is enough; there's no separate “box office.”
What is the seating layout and capacity of Basalt?
Basalt has two levels. The ground floor restaurant seats about 30–50 people (with a fireplace alcove) . The standout is the upstairs “Half Gazebo” open-air bar/deck, which can host roughly 40–60 seated guests for events and up to 100 standing cocktail-style . There are tables, booths and bar stools downstairs and deck seating upstairs. If you want a quiet dinner, choose indoor seating; for drinks and sun, the rooftop deck is superb. Keep in mind there is no allocated seating for general bar nights – it’s first-come basis.
Is there parking available at Basalt or nearby?
Basalt has no private parking lot. Street parking is available on Picton and nearby streets, but most of it is time-limited (about 1–2 hour zones in Howick Village ). There is a larger paid lot at Howick Historical Village (75 Bells Road), a short 3–4 minute walk from Basalt. You can usually find some on-street parking if you circle the area – just pay attention to signage. After drinking, many visitors prefer taxis or rideshare (Uber/Ola) because local buses end around midnight.
What public transport serves Basalt?
Auckland AT bus routes service Howick Central (near Basalt). The main ones are the 72 (from Pakuranga via Panmure to downtown), which stops along Picton St, and the 72X express from Britomart. Route 711 also loops into Howick. Additionally, ferry #380 (Half Moon Bay) runs from downtown Auckland to Half Moon Bay. From there you can take an AT bus (e.g. route 735) or taxi to Howick. The Howick Central stop is just a short walk from Basalt’s door.
Can we bring children and are they allowed?
Yes, Basalt welcomes families. Children (at any age) can come for meals during the day and early evening. The atmosphere is casual and the menu has kid-friendly options. However, after around 9–10pm it becomes a full bar environment, so minors may be asked to leave at closing time for compliance with liquor laws. During dinner service, kids with parents are fine.
Is Basalt wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Basalt has step-free access at the entrance and is wheelchair-friendly. There is an accessible restroom on the ground floor. One of the venue’s listed amenities is “Wheelchair Access” . Staff will help accommodate seating and navigation as needed.
Are there any dress code or door policies?
Dress is casual. No formal attire is required – most people wear what they’d wear to any pub or casual restaurant. Avoid beachwear or dirty sports gear if you're coming to dinner or a night of music. Standard NZ bar policy applies: staff will ask for photo ID (passport or NZ photo ID) if you look under 25 and want to drink, so bring that with you after 8pm. There’s generally no “cover charge” or stamping unless a special event is running. If it’s very busy they may limit entry as per fire capacity, but that’s rare on normal nights.
What food and drinks does Basalt offer?
Basalt serves a full pub-style menu. Expect gourmet burgers, steaks (Kiwi ribeye, lamb, etc.), seafood (fish & chips, mussels), salads and vegetarian options. They’re known for creative share platters and their stonegrill meals (you cook your meal on a hot lava rock at your table) . For drinks, they stock the full range of Monteith’s craft beers on tap, a wide selection of New Zealand wines, local ciders and specialty cocktails . Bar snacks (like chicken wings, nachos) are available late. On weekdays they often have specials (e.g., pizza nights, steak deals). If you have dietary needs (gluten-free, etc.), staff can advise – many pubs in Auckland offer GF or vegan tweaks now.
Is there Wi-Fi and other amenities?
Yes. Basalt offers complimentary Wi-Fi for customers (ask staff for the password) . You can lounge on the sofas or at tables with your devices. They also have air-conditioning/heaters, multiple big TV screens (especially upstairs) for sports/screening events , and a sound system for music. There is no coat-check, so handle your own belongings. A small function pack lists “TV” and “Sound System” as included amenities . Overall it’s more than a simple bar – it has full service catering and event capabilities if you need them.
Are there meal deals or happy hours?
Basalt (as part of Star Group) often has specials posted by day: for instance, local reviewers have noted $10 pizzas or pasta deals on certain weeknights. They also run large Star Group promotions (like “$25 steak night” or “half-price pizzas”) via its loyalty programme. It’s best to check Basalt’s social media or ask staff on arrival. Keep an eye out for chalkboard specials and “daily deals” — these are a big part of the fun and help keep meal prices competitive.
Can I watch live sports at Basalt?
Absolutely – Basalt regularly airs major sports. There are multiple screens (including a big one on the roof deck) for broadcasting games. Patrons often gather for All Blacks (rugby), rugby league, football/soccer (English Premier League, etc.) and even sports like Aussie Rules or UFC. The atmosphere on game day feels like a local sports bar environment. If you plan to watch a specific game, it’s wise to arrive early.
