About Chancery Chambers Venue Hire
Chancery Chambers is a distinctive heritage venue in Auckland’s central business district. It is housed in the Auckland District Law Society’s historic building at 2–8 Chancery Street (www.nzherald.co.nz ). The structure, completed in the mid-1920s, was designed by French-Canadian architect J. Sholto Smith and is often noted as Auckland’s first European-style building (bgeeng.com ). Its Gothic-Revival façade, with a rounded corner entrance onto Freyberg Square, along with grand internal columns and ornamental plasterwork, gives the venue a classic character (property.jll.nz ) (property.jll.nz ). Today the building is heritage-listed and spans several floors of law offices, but its crown jewel is the sixth-floor rooftop event terrace. After a recent refurbishment, the interior spaces feature modern comforts (air-conditioning and lighting) while preserving the 1920s charm (property.jll.nz ) (bgeeng.com ). In summary, Chancery Chambers stands out as a unique blend of old-world architecture and an intimate urban event space – a “hidden secret” of the city, as one wedding review put it (weddingwise.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Chancery Chambers is not a large concert hall; instead it hosts a range of small-to-medium gatherings. Its rooftop terrace (capacity ~50) is frequently booked for weddings, engagement parties, birthday celebrations and corporate functions (weddingwise.co.nz ). Inside, the adjoining meeting rooms (such as the Norman Shieff Room) can be used for presentations, dinners or cocktail receptions. Occasionally the venue is opened for public ticketed events – for example, a boutique wine tasting, an intimate jazz night or an art pop-up. Because of the limited size, events tend to be boutique in scale: even small music gigs will usually have tickets in the low dozens. If there is a ticketed show, prices are set by the organiser (for instance, a private concert might charge $20–40 per ticket). More commonly, events here are private or by invitation. In recent years, typical programming has included law society conferences, book launches, small award ceremonies and company celebrations. (During 2020–22 many events were curtailed by lockdowns, but since 2023 activity has picked up again.) While there are no weekly headline acts at this venue, its calendar is full of unique one-off functions and creative gatherings that make use of its urban-chic atmosphere.
Tickets and Booking
There is no permanent box office at Chancery Chambers. When the venue is booked for a public event, tickets are sold through the event organiser on external platforms – common New Zealand ticket sites, event apps or the organiser’s website. If you’re attending a specific show or party, always buy tickets online in advance, as capacity is small and popular dates can sell out. Some promoters may offer early-bird or VIP package deals, so signing up for their newsletter can be useful.
To book the venue itself for a private event (wedding, conference, etc.), you must deal directly with the Auckland District Law Society (ADLS), which manages the building. The ADLS events coordinator can quote hire rates and conditions – there is no simple online form to reserve space. Booking well in advance is recommended (several months, especially for summer weekends). Rates vary by time and scale; full-day weekday bookings are cheaper than peak twilight or weekend rates. A deposit and signed hire agreement are usually required. In short, for tickets to public events check the organiser’s channels, but for hiring the space you will liaise with the law society’s event team for details.
Seating and Layout
The primary event area is the sixth-floor rooftop terrace. This outdoor space is mostly open-air with movable seating – there are no permanent rows or fixed seats. Organisers typically set up a flexible cocktail-party layout: guests will see clusters of chairs and cocktail tables scattered around and plenty of standing room. The terrace floor is a mix of wooden decking and decorative gravel under jasmine-draped trellises (www.sharedspace.co.nz ), creating a garden-like urban oasis. There is a small gazebo on one side which often serves as a focal point for ceremonies or speeches. Because of the casual setup, there is no single “best” seat, but many guests enjoy standing near the railing to admire the city view (especially the Sky Tower). Chairs placed along the terrace edges allow people to sit and chat while admiring the skyline. Avoid obstructing the central pathways or crowding too close to stairs. Be aware the deck can become slick when wet, so guests in heels or smooth-soled shoes should take care.
Adjoining the terrace through wide glass doors is the indoor Norman Shieff Room. This room is often included in bookings and is equipped with some tables and chairs. It opens directly onto the terrace (weddingwise.co.nz ), so it’s often used as a break-out or staging area (for example, a place for caterers to plate food, or for guests to warm up during a chilly evening). The Shieff Room itself has flexible seating (can be set as a boardroom or lounge). In summary, Chancery Chambers has a very informal layout: the emphasis is on mingling in an atmospheric space, rather than assigned seating. Planners typically recommend guests take pictures around the perimeter and use the indoor-outdoor flow when moving between areas.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Chancery Chambers is central in downtown Auckland. Its address is 2–8 Chancery Street (next to Freyberg Square, near the corner of Shortland Street). This puts it just a block from major arteries like Queen Street and High Street, and adjacent to Albert Park. The venue is about a 10–15 minute walk from Britomart Transport Center (Auckland’s main train and ferry hub), and many bus routes run nearby (stops on Queen, Albert, Victoria and Wellesley Streets). If you’re taking a taxi or rideshare, you can be dropped off at the Chancery entrance on Freyberg Street (which appears as either Freyberg or O’Connell Street on some apps). On foot, once you reach Freyberg Square or Lorne/Wyndham Street, look for the cream-colored neo-Gothic building labeled “Chancery Chambers” on the ground floor.
Parking: The venue itself has no dedicated parking lot, but there are several nearby options. The closest public carpark is Beresford Square (enter at 22 Beresford Street); it’s open 24/7 and a flat rate typically applies (at.govt.nz ). Alternatively, metered street parking is available around the area. Most surrounding streets are within Parkrite or AT Zone 1–2 (blue/green zones). For example, Zone 1 on-street parking costs about $6.50 per hour for the first two hours and $11.50 per hour thereafter (at.govt.nz ) (so roughly $30–40 for a half-day). Note that on-street parking is enforced around 8am–6pm on weekdays, and has sweeping limits (no free all-day curb parking). For brief stops (loading or quick drop-off) you may pay a short-term fee or look for “P5” zones. Cyclists can take advantage of the building’s secure bike facilities: recent renovations added a bike parking area with lockers and showers (property.jll.nz ), reflecting the venue’s support of alternate commuting.
Inside the Venue
Guests enter through the main foyer, which is an office-style lobby. From there you’ll be guided to the event areas by the hosts. The ground floor reception is modest, so most of the action is upstairs. Expect the setting inside to be refined and somewhat understated. The ceilings are high and the decor blends polished wood, beams and the original plaster detailing framed by modern lighting (property.jll.nz ). Think of it as a heritage building that’s been given a fresh, minimalist renovation. Because it’s partly a working law facility, security is routine but not obtrusive: jackets and small personal items can be carried in, but standard bag checks may apply if it’s a large event.
Facilities for guests: The venue offers basic amenities but you should plan according to your event’s needs. For instance, booking the rooftop terrace includes access to the adjacent Norman Shieff meeting room and a small catering kitchen (weddingwise.co.nz ). The Shieff Room provides extra space to spread out, make drinks, or set up buffet tables, but it is not a bar or dining hall on its own. There is no official bar on site, so if you want drinks you typically bring in a bartender or have guests BYO alcohol (wine and beer) (weddingwise.co.nz ). Similarly, chairs and tables from the venue are limited; many clients bring additional lounge furniture or décor. The rooftop itself comes with some outdoor seating and umbrellas (www.sharedspace.co.nz ), which guests can use during sunny or drizzly weather.
Comfort and connectivity: Thanks to the recent refit, all event areas are air-conditioned and lighted to modern standards (property.jll.nz ). Restrooms are clean and located on-site (including at least one accessible toilet per floor). There is no public Wi-Fi network for casual visitors, so rely on your mobile plan unless the organiser arranges a private link. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in the CBD, but data-intensive video calls may be spotty on the open rooftop. If you need power, be aware that there are limited plugs on the terrace – organisers often bring extension cords or battery-powered equipment. In short, the site combines crunchy vintage style with up-to-date conveniences, but you should still plan the food, sound and lighting needs with an external caterer or event crew.
Nearby Amenities
Being in the heart of the city, Chancery Chambers has virtually every kind of amenity within easy reach. A variety of cafés and bars line the nearby streets. Freyberg Place and Albert Street (just north and west of the venue) have casual eateries and brewpubs perfect for a meal or coffee break. Queen Street (one block north) is packed with restaurants and fast-food outlets. You could pop into the Kowhai Cafe at SkyCity for brunch, or visit one of the laneway bars on Vulcan Lane or Fort Street for evening drinks. Convenience stores and a bottle shop are only a couple of blocks away (on Queen and Shortland Street) in case you need to grab supplies. For something more formal, nearby restaurants include Italian and Thai bistros along High Street and budget cafes on Symonds Street. Also note that Albert Park is adjacent – it’s a pleasant garden (with a café and free Wi-Fi) where guests sometimes wander between events or take photographs.
Hotels abound in this precinct. The upscale Cordis Auckland (formerly Langham Hotel, on Symonds Street) is under 5 minutes’ walk; the Grand Millennium and Sofitel Auckland are just to the east on Queen Street. For mid-range stays, Novotel on Quay Street or the CityLife New Zealand Hotel are nearby. If you’re out late, Auckland’s main taxi ranks and rideshare pickup points are a short walk away (or you can catch a 24-hour InnerLink bus on Queen Street). Late-night eateries and even a cinema are within easy walking distance, so you won’t be stranded if an event goes into the wee hours. In short, the venue is surrounded by city conveniences – accommodation, dining and transit – so guests can plan a full night out before or after an event.
What Makes This Venue Special
Chancery Chambers stands out for its mix of heritage character and cityscape ambiance. The building’s old-world architecture is truly one-of-a-kind downtown. Its carved stonework, high-arched windows and turn-of-the-century details give it a very different feel from modern concrete offices. Inside and out, the decor blends that vintage charm with sleek, minimalist touches from recent renovations (property.jll.nz ). Equally special is the rooftop itself: that small sky deck feels like a private garden in the clouds. Few Auckland venues offer such panoramic views (the Sky Tower and city lights are at eye level), yet the atmosphere remains cozy and intimate. One wedding planner described it as an “urban but romantic” hidden gem (weddingwise.co.nz ), because it’s tucked away up high but still in the city core. Guests often cite the exposed brick and twilight skyline as highlights of their experience; these unique photo opportunities set it apart from boxy conference halls.
The venue’s connection to Auckland’s legal community also adds to its cultural significance. For decades it has been the headquarters of the Auckland District Law Society, making it a landmark for the professional community. This background gives Chancery Chambers a sense of tradition and prestige – it’s been the setting for legal meetings and debates as well as public events. In 2018, for example, the law society’s proposal to sell the building (on a $14 million valuation) became big news in NZ media (www.nzherald.co.nz ). Many lawyers and historians argued it should remain a cultural touchstone rather than be turned into something generic. That episode highlighted how embedded the building is in local heritage and identity. In practice, clients love this mix of gravitas and versatility: it feels like an exclusive members’ club, but with the freedom to throw a personalised party. All told, Chancery Chambers is special because it tells a story – a historic, legal, and architectural story – that the audience can step right into even during a casual cocktail party.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is equipped for disabled access. There is a lift in the building and no major steps between the street entrance and the event floors, making all public areas wheelchair-friendly. The rooftop has guarded railings and an accessible lift up from the ground floor, so guests with mobility needs should be comfortable moving around.What to bring & wear: There is no formal dress code, but smart-casual is sensible. The terrace floor can be uneven or damp (a mix of decking and gravel), so avoid spiky or slippery shoes. For an outdoor event, bring layers: evenings and breezes can chill the roof, and daytime sun can be strong. URLs are not needed, but shoes with grip are. If alcohol is allowed, note that all drink must usually be supplied by the hosts or BYO – the venue does not have a public bar, so you might not be able to purchase drinks on the spot unless arranged.Arrival timing: Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before the event start, especially for ceremonies or shows. This gives you time to find the entrance (look for a small “Chancery Chambers” sign on Freyberg Street) and get situated. Latecomers may find the door closed if the event has already started. There is no coat check, so plan to keep your coat on or drape it over a chair.Photography and recording: Casual photos are encouraged (the venue is very photogenic). However, professional photo/video equipment (tripods, drones, etc.) often requires the organisers’ permission in advance. If in doubt, check with the event host about any filming restrictions. Cellphone use is fine, but note there is no public Wi-Fi network, so streaming or uploads may rely on mobile data.Food & Drink rules: With few exceptions (weddings, corporate functions can be alcohol-permitted), Chancery Chambers itself does not hold a special liquor license. Hosts must organise any alcohol through caterers or BYO arrangements. If the event is 18-plus, you may be required to show ID at the door to drink. Smoking is not allowed in the indoor areas; in practice smokers often step outside or nearby sidewalks.Common mistakes to avoid: Respect that Chancery is also an office building. Do not block hallways or use areas outside the booked space. Avoid placing anything on heritage fixtures or leaning too heavily on old woodwork. Also, double-check weather on the day: unplanned rain can make the terrace unusable, so most organisers will move activities indoors if needed. (If rain is forecast, the small indoor rooms can serve as a backup.) Finally, remember nearby neighbors – keep noise (especially music or loud DJ) within reasonable hours since it’s in a city centre office area.Children and pets: Kids are welcome at most daytime events, but always confirm with the event organisers. The rooftop railing meets safety standards, but little ones should be supervised near the edge. Pets are normally not allowed (service animals aside) since it’s a city commercial building. Plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Chancery Chambers Venue Hire?
The rooftop terrace and adjacent rooms together can accommodate roughly 50–60 people. Chancery Chambers is a small, intimate venue, so it’s best suited to gatherings under about 50 guests. This includes seated ceremonies on the terrace; a few more attendees can fit if standing. There are no large normal theatre-style seats – events here are usually cocktail or conference style with moveable chairs.
Where is Chancery Chambers located and how can I get there?
Chancery Chambers is at 2–8 Chancery Street in Auckland’s CBD, on Freyberg Square (corner of O’Connell/Shortland). It’s just off Queen Street and near Albert Park. The nearest train station is Britomart (about a 10–15 minute walk); from there you head west along Queen or Wellesley Street. Many buses stop just a block away on Queen, Albert and Victoria Streets. Taxis and rideshares can be dropped at the Freyberg/O’Connell corner, which is right at the venue entrance.
Are there parking options and what do they cost?
There is no private parking lot at Chancery Chambers. The closest carpark is the 24/7 Beresford Square (entry on Beresford Street) (at.govt.nz ). Street parking is metered: most surrounding streets are in Zone 1 (blue), which costs about NZ$6.50 per hour for the first two hours (at.govt.nz ). Remember city parking rules (enforcement Mon–Fri 8am–6pm). Evening rates or short-term delivery zones may be cheaper if you arrive late. Many people find it easiest to use a public carpark or use taxis/public transit rather than hunt for free street parking downtown.
What public transportation serves Chancery Chambers?
Auckland Transport buses run frequently on Queen Street (one block north) and nearby streets in the CBD. You can take any bus that stops on Queen, Albert or Victoria Street and walk a minute to Freyberg Square. The Britomart train and ferry terminal (on Quay Street) is also an easy 10-minute walk. Many regional and city buses serve Britomart. In short, the venue is well-connected by public transit – just aim for the Auckland Town Hall / Freyberg Square area as your stop.
Is Chancery Chambers wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building has an elevator and no major steps to reach the terrace level, so a wheelchair or mobility scooter can access the main event spaces. The rooftop itself has guardrails, and there are accessible restrooms inside. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to let the event organiser know so they can assist you when you arrive.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to Chancery Chambers?
Yes, as a venue hire space it typically allows outside catering and BYO alcohol for private events. Chancery Chambers does not have an in-house bar or kitchen service, so hosts usually arrange a caterer or suppliers to bring in food and beverages. If alcohol is served (beer, wine, spirits), the responsible person must manage any licensing requirements. (All alcohol must be provided by the host – there is no public liquor license at the venue.)
Are children allowed at events in Chancery Chambers?
Children are generally welcome, but it depends on the event. Many daytime functions (weddings, family gatherings) allow kids, but evening or alcohol-focused events may be 18+. There’s no dedicated children’s area, so parents should supervise kids, especially on the rooftop terrace. The venue isn’t a crawling space – it’s a mix of outdoor deck and indoor seating – but families do bring well-behaved children to appropriate events.
Is there a dress code at Chancery Chambers?
No formal dress code is enforced by the venue. However, because much of the event is outdoors on a deck, guests often choose smart-casual attire. Sturdy footwear is recommended (high heels can sink into the deck’s wood/gravel surface). If the event is in cooler weather, bring a wrap or jacket. Essentially, dress in whatever is appropriate for the occasion (wedding, corporate meeting, etc.), keeping in mind that the rooftop can be breezy.
Does Chancery Chambers have a coat check or storage for belongings?
No, there isn’t a formal coat check or locker room. Guests typically keep their coats with them or hang them on chairs. Large bags are allowed, but you should watch them; there is no secure luggage storage. If your event requires it, you could rent a small wardrobe area or put a sign that guests can leave jackets at a single table. In general, plan to carry anything you might need during the event.
Is photography and video recording allowed at Chancery Chambers?
Casual photography (e.g. smartphones) is fine and expected – the rooftop and interior are very photogenic. However, professional-grade equipment (tripods, lighting rigs, drones, video cameras) usually requires advance permission from the event organiser. If you’re attending, taking personal photos is welcome. If you plan to interview or broadcast, it’s best to coordinate with the hosts, since this is a semi-private venue.
How do I book Chancery Chambers for my own event?
You must go through the Auckland District Law Society, which manages bookings for Chancery Chambers. Contact the ADLS events team (via their official website or by phone) to check availability and rates. Expect to provide details like date, guest count and event purpose. They will issue a hire agreement and invoice. It’s wise to start this process 3–6 months before your desired date, especially in summer when demand is high.
Does Chancery Chambers have Wi-Fi or is there good mobile coverage?
There is no free public Wi-Fi network for guests. Cellphone reception is generally strong (being in the CBD), so most people use mobile data. If you need internet for presentations or streaming, plan to use your own hotspot or ask the organiser if they can arrange a dedicated connection.
When was Chancery Chambers built and what is its history?
The building was completed in 1924 and designed by J. Sholto Smith of Mullions & Smith (bgeeng.com ). It originally contained offices, a tearoom on the top floor and even a Turkish bath in the basement. Over the decades it served as a hub for Auckland’s legal profession. Today it still houses lawyers’ offices and, on the upper levels, event spaces. Its long history is evident in the classic architecture and it is considered one of the city’s key heritage buildings (bgeeng.com ).
Who owns and operates Chancery Chambers?
Chancery Chambers is owned and run by the Auckland District Law Society (ADLS). The ADLS uses it as their headquarters and manages the venue hire business. It has remained in ADLS hands since it was built, and any bookings or events are handled through the law society’s administration (www.nzherald.co.nz ).
Can I host a wedding ceremony at Chancery Chambers?
Yes, many couples choose Chancery Chambers for weddings. The rooftop terrace has a small gazebo that is ideal for ceremonies (weddingwise.co.nz ), and guests can afterwards enjoy the city view for photos. The flexible space allows you to bring in floral arches, fairy lights or other decorations. Just check with the venue if you need any special licenses or timing (e.g. late-party music). But generally it is quite wedding-friendly.
Is alcohol licensed at Chancery Chambers or do I need special permission?
The venue itself does not hold a public liquor licence. Events at Chancery Chambers typically operate on a BYO or private caterer basis. In practical terms, if you want to serve alcohol, you must arrange it with your caterer or bring it yourself, and ensure you (or your drink server) hold any necessary responsible serving qualifications. The venue won’t sell you drinks, but it allows you to bring them in.
What happens if it rains on the day of an outdoor event?
Because most of the event is on the uncovered rooftop, organizers usually have a rain plan. The venue’s small indoor rooms (like the Norman Shieff Room) can be used as a backup ceremony or gathering space if needed. For example, in light rain you might simply use the gazebo or umbrellas; in heavy rain the event could be moved indoors. It’s best to discuss contingencies with your event planner ahead of time. If you’re a guest, come prepared (e.g. bring a light coat or umbrella) just in case.
What is the Norman Shieff Room in Chancery Chambers?
The Norman Shieff Room is an indoor meeting room inside Chancery Chambers that opens onto the rooftop. It’s often included in the venue hire and serves as a prep or break-out space. For events it can function as a lounge, changing room or storage area. It’s connected to the terrace by French doors (weddingwise.co.nz ), so guests can easily flow between the indoor Shieff Room and the outdoor terrace.
Is there a minimum age to attend events at Chancery Chambers?
Age rules depend on the specific event. As a venue, Chancery Chambers does not impose its own age restrictions. Private parties or weddings typically allow all ages, unless specified otherwise by the host. However, if alcohol is being served, under-18s may not be served drinks and you may be asked for ID if you look under 25. Always check the event listing or ask the organiser if you’re unsure.
Are pets or animals allowed at Chancery Chambers?
Generally no, outside of service animals. Chancery Chambers is an office building, so pets are not permitted in events. If you have a legitimate service dog or need an animal for a specific event (like a pet photo shoot), you would need to get advance approval. For standard social or corporate functions, leave pets at home and instead bring only the people you’re hosting.
