About Craft Services
Craft Services is an Auckland-based event venue and catering company that has repurposed an industrial warehouse in Avondale into a music and party space. The venue is styled as a large open warehouse with high ceilings and a raw, industrial-chic vibe, setting it apart from typical inner-city bars or theatres. Although the company behind it started by providing on-set food and equipment for film and TV productions, it now offers “everything you need to look after a crowd,” including tables, chairs, lighting and even “fresh healthy food” at events (www.craftservices.co.nz ). This emphasis on healthy, high-quality catering is a signature of the venue’s character, so attendees often drink local craft beer and enjoy creative food options alongside the music. Craft Services advertises itself as delivering “a premium service and a great vibe” in an eco-friendly way (www.craftservices.co.nz ), reflecting a focus on sustainability and local sourcing. In practice, this means the venue often features local partners like Hallertau brewery (with beer on tap) and designers, giving events a community-oriented feel (www.ticketfairy.com ). The atmosphere is laid-back and communal – part creative workshop, part party hall – making Craft Services notable for its unique blend of industrial aesthetics and Kiwi hospitality.
Events and Programming
Craft Services is not a venue with a fixed calendar of shows, but it periodically hosts one-off parties and special events. Its most famous event series is the “Warehouse Party,” an annual dancehall/reggae music night held in Avondale. For example, in 2022 Craft Services held its fourth annual Warehouse Party, featuring New Zealand reggae acts and international producers like Naram (of Red Robin Records) on a “top notch sound system” (www.ticketfairy.com ). These Warehouse Parties bring together DJs, MCs and sound-system crews for late-night concerts with heavy bass and big crowds. A 2021 listing described the Warehouse Party as “the musical event of the calendar year,” promising “sonic magic, killer kai and vibes” with Hallertau beer on tap and art by local designers (www.ticketfairy.com ). That highlights the DIY, reggae-rooted spirit of the venue’s programming.
In addition to reggae nights, Craft Services has also hosted other music and dance events that cater to Auckland’s creative scenes. Past line-ups have included local DJs (‘Sistmatik’, ‘Atmosphere’) and MCs performing alongside touring acts (www.ticketfairy.com ). Events at this warehouse tend to be club-style parties: loud, all-ages or 18+ gatherings centered on DJ or live sets. The frequency is relatively low – usually a few big events per year rather than weekly club nights – but each one draws a crowd of dedicated fans. Because the venue can be hired for private functions, you might also occasionally find community events or bespoke performances there. Programming leans toward eclectic, often celebrating reggae, electronic or world music with a strong local flavour. For instance, the venue proudly highlights “Aotearoa’s heavyweight dancehall acts” with Jamaican-style bass sound systems (www.ticketfairy.com ), connecting Auckland audiences to global music trends. In short, Craft Services offers boutique, community-driven events rather than mainstream commercial shows.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Craft Services events are typically sold online through official event pages and the venue’s social media, rather than at a physical box office. Ticket release dates vary with each event, but for popular parties (like the Warehouse Party) tickets often go on sale several weeks or months in advance. Event announcements usually specify if there will be a presale or promo codes. Because the events use an intimate warehouse space, capacity is limited and shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. Ticket prices depend on the lineup and producer – small local shows might be just NZD $20–30, while bigger nights (with international DJs) could range higher. As with many live-music venues, ticket listings may include a modest booking fee. Sometimes a small number of tickets are available at the door if not sold out, but don’t count on walk-up sale; it’s safest to secure tickets in advance via the online event listing. Remember that some nights may be all-ages, while others will be 18+. The event announcement will clarify any age restrictions and ID requirements.
Seating and Layout
The venue itself is essentially one large hall. There are no fixed theatre seats – it’s mostly standing-room general admission in front of the stage. That said, Craft Services can bring in banquet tables and chairs or lounges, so there might be a few bench seats or small lounge areas along the edges during an event. The stage or DJ booth is set up at one end of the warehouse, with the sound system and subwoofers occupying center stage. For best sound and view, many guests prefer to stand a few metres back from the stage area where the bass balances out and you can still see the performers. If you like dancing, the open dance floor is wide and flat – comfortable shoes are recommended for dancing on the concrete floor. On the other hand, some people like to hang back on the perimeter where it’s quieter and you can sit or lean against high tables. In general, your view will depend on crowd position, but the flat layout means no bad sightlines: even at the back you can usually see the stage clearly. Watch out for phases of loud bass – sitting or standing too close to the main speakers can be intense. Acoustically, the bare walls and high ceiling give a live, echoey feel (good for rumbling bass but wear earplugs if crowd noise is going to bother you). Overall, think of it like a club or festival tent: casual, with scattered furniture, but mostly fill the floor to catch the music.
Getting There and Parking
**Location:** Craft Services is located at 489 Rosebank Road (Unit 6) in Avondale, West Auckland. Rosebank Road is an industrial street just off the motorway (State Highway 16) near Great North Road. The venue is easy to spot on Avondale’s outskirts; there are often banners or flags outside when events run. **Driving:** If you drive, note that parking is limited. The area is an industrial business park, so some on-site parking may be available in the yard, but much of the road parking is on Rosebank Road itself. In the evenings and weekends around event time there tend to be open spots on the street or in neighboring lots (hours may vary with local regulations), but it’s smart to arrive early to secure a space. Overflows sometimes park one or two streets back or along adjacent driveways. Because Rosebank Road connects directly to SH16 (via ramps to/from the city), it’s a quick drive from central Auckland by motorway (10–15 minutes from the Harbour Bridge on a good day). **Drop-off/Rideshare:** Taxi or rideshare drop-offs can be arranged at the main entrance on Rosebank Road. There’s room to stop briefly without blocking traffic. **Public Transit:** The venue is also reachable by bus and train. Auckland Transport’s buses 22R, 191 and 149 all have stops on or near Rosebank Road (moovitapp.com ). For example, the 22R (Route 22R) runs from the city centre up to Avondale via Rosebank. If you take the Western Line train, get off at Avondale Station and then catch one of these buses or walk (~1.5 km) west along Great North Road to Rosebank Road. (Consult AT.govt.nz or a transit app for specific schedules around event times.) In short, while driving is common, public transport is a viable option: the bus lines serve Rosebank Road directly and Avondale train station is nearby (moovitapp.com ), making it relatively easy for visitors to arrive even without a car.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival you’ll enter through an industrial roll-up door or gated entry. Staff usually have an entry table for checking tickets or IDs at the door. Be prepared for a casual security search (bags and coats may be quickly checked). Once inside, you’ll find a spacious, warehouse-like room. The lighting is typically low and atmospheric – think colored stage lights or disco lights, not bright house lights. The overall vibe is creative and informal, often reflecting the night’s theme (for example, past parties have featured graffiti art and reggae decor). There is usually one main bar or drink station in the hall (often a pop-up bar with local craft beer on tap, like Hallertau during the Warehouse Party (www.ticketfairy.com )). The company’s catering background means you may also find some snack or food options – in large events they sometimes have a food counter or food truck serving “killer kai” (fresh, tasty food) alongside drinks (www.ticketfairy.com ). You should expect to pay cash or card at the bar or food stall just like at a club; prices tend to be moderate for standard venue bars. Seating is minimal: cocktail tables or a few benches might be arranged around the edges, but don’t expect a full lounge or theatre seating. Merchandise tables (selling artist CDs, shirts, etc.) are sometimes set up near the entrance, so fans can browse. Near the bar area you’ll also find the restrooms (typically a couple of bathrooms, and often an accessible/unisex toilet given their new design standards). Lastly, the atmosphere is generally friendly – crowds at Craft Services events are known to be welcoming and social. It behaves like a small festival tent indoors, so people dance freely and mingle. Keep in mind it’s probably quite loud once the music is on (Revolution Sound System sets bass-heavy levels (www.ticketfairy.com )), so devise how to safeguard personal items (some bring small crossbody bags or hip packs). Overall, expect a creative, festival-style indoor party atmosphere with the comforts of a catered event – bars, restrooms and good sound – but none of the formal structure of a theatre. Above all, go ready to enjoy the music and community in this unique industrial space.
Nearby Amenities
Just a short walk or drive from Craft Services are Avondale’s local shops, cafés and restaurants. The neighborhood around Great North Road is known for its diverse food scene and lively character (www.aucklandmagazine.com ) (www.aucklandmagazine.com ). For pre-show dining, you might explore Avondale’s institutions: there’s everything from South Asian curries to New Zealand pub fare not far away. For example, Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen (located in Jomac Place, a few blocks off Great North) is a popular community café serving breakfast and lunch; it’s praised for being “light, stylish, and incredibly inviting” (www.aucklandmagazine.com ). Closer to Great North Road you’ll find ethnic eateries (e.g. tacos, Thai, Samoan) and casual beer bars – like the Avondale Taphouse brewpub which offers craft beer and pub grub just around the corner. If you need last-minute supplies, nearby convenience stores and dairies stock essentials. There are also a couple of liquor stores (“bottle shops”) along Great North Road if you want to pick up take-home drinks beforehand (since no outside alcohol is allowed inside). For late-night options, some spots (such as pub kitchens or bakeries) stay open past shows, but plan ahead since many eateries close by 11pm. If you need accommodations, the closest hotels are actually a short drive away (for example in New Lynn or along SH16). In any case, Avondale’s wide range of cafés, bakeries and bars means you can easily grab a coffee or meal before the show, and perhaps continue your night with friends at a nearby pub after the party ends (www.aucklandmagazine.com ) (www.aucklandmagazine.com ).
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets Craft Services apart is its personality. Unlike a corporate concert hall or a purely commercial club, this space feels hand-crafted by local artists, chefs and music lovers. The venue’s roots as a production services company mean it brings professional hospitality (tables, lighting, food) into a DIY warehouse environment. That means you get the best of both worlds: high-quality sound and catering teaming up with raw brick walls and an urban atmosphere. Event promoters lean into this by branding their nights as communal celebrations of music and culture. For instance, the warehouse parties have become legendary in the city’s reggae and bass scene – advertised as “Aotearoa’s heavyweight dancehall” experiences with top sound systems (www.ticketfairy.com ). The company’s marketing language – “Everything you need to look after a crowd,” “fresh healthy food,” “eco-friendly” – bleeds into the actual events, which are known for good vibes and even offering wholesome snacks / craft beers (www.craftservices.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In other words, Craft Services isn’t just a space; it’s the ethos of a sustainable, community-driven party in West Auckland.
Furthermore, the venue’s location adds to its charm. Avondale is not the usual nightlife district, so attending an event at Craft Services feels like finding a hidden gem – a special gathering in a gritty, up-and-coming part of town. Musicians and partygoers appreciate the flexibility of the space: touring DJs often mention that the “top notch sound system” at Craft Services really lets the bass shine (www.ticketfairy.com ). On top of that, because the venue can be dark and empty until showtime, organizers have decorated it creatively for each event (e.g. using lighting design by local artists like Beldi and graffiti murals for ambiance (www.ticketfairy.com )). Even the recurring events carry a sense of local lore and tradition: Newcomers often hear older attendees talk about past Warehouse Parties (“this is the 4th annual one!” (www.ticketfairy.com )), creating a feeling of being part of an underground legacy. In summary, Craft Services is special because it blends professional event production with a grassroots, artsy vibe – a place where artists and audiences mingle freely, and every party feels like a bespoke celebration of Auckland’s creativity.
Visitor Tips and Information
Planning ahead will make your visit smoother. Dress casually and comfortably: sturdy shoes (for dancing on concrete) and light layers are wise since warehouses can feel chilly when unheated and steadily warm up later. You won’t find formal dress codes here – most people come in jeans, tees or festival wear. If the event is labeled 18+, bring a valid photo ID for entry. Bag policy is usually minimal but practical: carry just the essentials (phone, wallet, keys). Large backpacks may be denied, and there is typically no coat check, so use a small bag or keep belongings on you. Since the speakers pump out a lot of bass, earplugs are a good idea for those sensitive to loud sound. Smoking is only allowed outside (Auckland law forbids indoor smoking), so expect to step outside into the yard if you need a cigarette break. Photography and phone video is usually allowed for personal use (most events encourage sharing your pics afterwards), but professional camera gear or audio recording often requires permission from the promoter. Credit card machines are available at bars, but if you prefer cash, ATMs in Avondale are a short walk away (or take out cash beforehand). The venue has bathrooms (often one or two) including at least one accessible toilet, so accessibility is generally good – the floor is on street level with no steps to get in, but if you have any concerns (wheelchair access, hearing assistance, etc.) it’s best to double-check with the organizer. Arrive early for a better spot on the floor (the music usually starts right at the advertised time, e.g. 8:00 PM). And finally, embrace the vibe! The crowd at Craft Services events tends to be welcoming and laid-back. Bring your festivity and respect local culture (for example, “kai” means food, so you might hear people using Māori or slang terms casually). Checking each event’s social media for hints (dress theme, opening act times, age rules) is wise, but even at the door staff can answer questions or tell you the schedule. With these tips, you can fully enjoy what makes Craft Services unique: a warm-spirited, crafty party atmosphere that’s distinctly Auckland.
Where exactly is Craft Services located in Auckland?
Craft Services is on Rosebank Road in the Avondale industrial area of West Auckland. Its address is Unit 6/489 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland. Look for a warehouse building marked as “Craft Services.” It’s near the motorway exchange by Great North Road.
How can I get to Craft Services using public transport?
You can take Auckland buses that serve Rosebank Road. Bus routes 22R, 191 and 149 all stop on or near Rosebank Road (moovitapp.com ). For example, the 22R runs from central Auckland through Avondale West. If you prefer train, ride the Western Line to Avondale Station (about 1.5 km from the venue) and then catch a short bus or walk along Great North Road to Rosebank Road (moovitapp.com ). In short, a combo of Western Line train and local bus is a convenient way to reach the venue if you don’t drive.
Is there parking available at Craft Services?
Parking is somewhat limited. There may be a few on-site spaces in the business park, but many attendees park along Rosebank Road. The street parking is usually free outside business hours (always check for signage). If events are busy, spaces fill up, so carpooling or rideshare can be easier. Overflow parking often uses nearby side streets. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially on event nights.
What are some good options for food and drinks nearby?
Avondale has a lively food scene. A popular nearby café is Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen (in Jomac Place) which opens for breakfast and lunch and is praised for its bright, community feel (www.aucklandmagazine.com ). Along Great North Road (a few minutes’ walk) you’ll find international cuisine like tacos, Thai, and Kiwi pubs. The Avondale Taphouse brewpub is famous for craft beer and pub food. People often eat before shows at a local eatery and then stop at a bottle shop (liquor store) if they want beers or wine to bring home. Inside Craft Services events, a bar usually serves drinks (often local beer on tap) and sometimes snacks or food truck fare during big events.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Craft Services events?
Yes, it’s best to get tickets ahead of time. Events at Craft Services often have limited capacity and can sell out. Organizers usually sell tickets online through their website or social media event page. A few tickets may be held for door sales if the event isn’t full, but to avoid missing out, plan to buy your ticket when you see the event announced.
What is the typical price range for Craft Services show tickets?
Ticket prices vary by show. Smaller local music nights might be in the NZ$20–30 range, while bigger events featuring well-known DJs may charge more. There’s no fixed price – check the specific event information for current pricing. Keep in mind any booking fees when purchasing online.
What seats are available at Craft Services?
There isn’t fixed seating like a theatre. The floor is mostly general admission standing room. For some events, the promoters bring in a few tables or lounge chairs along the sides, but most people stand or dance anywhere on the floor. If you want to sit, keep an eye out for high stools or benches placed by the walls. To get closest to the stage or DJ, stand near the front middle. The venue is wide-open, so even from the back you can usually see the performers over the crowd.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to a Craft Services event?
No, outside food or alcohol is generally not allowed inside the venue. This is a common rule at music events. However, some events do offer food and beverages for sale on-site. For example, during the Warehouse Party they often have craft beer on tap (like Hallertau) and may include food vendors with snacks or meals (referred to as “killer kai” by past events) (www.ticketfairy.com ). So plan to buy any drinks or food inside the venue or eat beforehand at a nearby restaurant.
What is the age restriction at Craft Services?
Age restrictions depend on the event. The Warehouse Party has been both all-ages and 18+ on different years. The event promo should clearly state this. If it’s an 18+ event, you must show photo ID (NZ driver license, passport, etc.) to enter. All-ages shows welcome under-18s but expect a lively environment. Always double-check the event listing for age rules; if in doubt, reach out to the organizers before the night.
What items are prohibited inside the venue?
Standard concert rules apply. No outside alcohol or illegal drugs. Weapons or dangerous objects are prohibited. Glass bottles are not allowed. Large backpacks may be refused. Typically you can carry a small purse or pocketbook. The bars inside will serve drinks, so bring cash or a card for purchases. Smoking is only allowed outdoors, not inside. If you have any special needs (medical equipment, etc.), check with staff as they usually accommodate necessary items.
Is the Craft Services venue wheelchair accessible?
The warehouse floor is level and at street height, so there are no big steps to enter that we’re aware of. The organizers also mention accessible toilets. In theory the space should be usable for wheelchair users, but given it’s a converted industrial space, it’s a good idea to check with the event organizer about any ramps or specific access needs ahead of time. Accessible parking may also be limited, so plan accordingly.
Are cameras or phone photography allowed at Craft Services?
Yes, casual photography with your phone is usually fine. People often take photos and videos of live acts. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses or recording equipment typically require permission, since events may have media arrangements. If you plan to film or bring professional gear, check with the promoters first. Always respect other guests’ privacy and any artist requests about filming the show.
Does Craft Services have Wi-Fi or mobile reception?
Craft Services likely does not offer free Wi-Fi during events, as it is a performance space rather than a café. However, most modern smartphones have good 4G/5G coverage in the area. You can usually use mobile data inside without issue. Don’t rely on streaming during a loud show, though – it’s best to use your phone for photos or messages. If you need internet, cafés nearby (like Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen) might offer Wi-Fi before the event.
Is there a coat check or lockers at the venue?
No, there’s no formal coat check service. The space is not set up like a traditional theatre, so you’ll generally hold on to your belongings. During cold weather, you can leave coats or bags near the walls or under tables. Valuables should be kept on your person or in a tight-fitting bag. As a tip, travel light – bring only what you need for the night.
When do events usually end and what are the transport options afterward?
Events at Craft Services often run until late, commonly shutting down around midnight or shortly after (with music typically playing from 8pm on). Public buses may run later on weekends (check AT schedules), but the last buses from Avondale are generally around 11pm. If you plan to stay late, consider having a rideshare or taxi lined up in advance, or be ready to walk to the nearest bus stop. The venue’s close proximity to the motorway slipway means it’s quick to hail a ride from there. Always plan your trip home ahead for late-night shows.
