About Dead Witch
Dead Witch is the upstairs live-music room of Ding Dong Lounge, an Auckland dive-bar turned rock venue at 26 Wyndham Street. A passion project of its founders (the local outpost of the NYC/Melbourne Ding Dong Lounge lineage), Dead Witch officially opened in December 2019 and has become a cornerstone of Auckland’s alternative scene . The venue is housed in a heritage “Gas Company” brick building (circa 1900) along Wyndham St, giving it an old-school industrial charm . Downstairs Ding Dong has cozy booths and a dance floor, while Dead Witch is a compact upstairs space dedicated to live performances . In its own words the club offers “cozy booths, late-night rock DJs, and an inclusive atmosphere,” with Dead Witch as its “exhilarating live music space upstairs” . This tiny room-with-a-stage plays host to cutting-edge local and touring acts – from punk, metal and indie bands to comedy nights – making it notable as one of the city’s few true 18+ rock venues. It’s prized by the Auckland scene for its raw, intimate vibe and for keeping the dive-bar rock tradition alive .
Events and Programming
Dead Witch hosts a dizzying variety of underground shows, usually 4–6 nights a week. On a typical week you’ll find genre-themed nights and special events: indie-rock or punk nights, metal or goth club nights, tribute shows, and more. Recurring weekly events include the “Dead Witch Comedy Open Mic” (free-entry stand-up each Tuesday) and a Thursday evening “Jam Night” band showcase. Ding Dong also runs an annual Battle-of-the-Bands competition whose heats and finals take place upstairs. The lineup features local NZ rock/metal/punk bands as well as some touring alt/indie artists that fit the venue’s R18 vibe. Past billed acts span from hard-core to shoegaze, synthwave to reggae-rap (e.g. a 2024 synth-pop lineup, punk cover bands, or Auckland bands like Channeled) – reflecting Dead Witch’s eclectic programming. Shows often sell tickets in presales and at the door; for example a recent rock night had $5 presale and $10 door tickets . Some larger special events (festival nights or band comps) can go up to $15–25NZD. The venue frequently offers member discounts (often 50% off) for ticket buyers , and big headline or festival-type shows can sell out in advance. All events are R18 (18+) and often start around 8–9pm, running late (well past midnight). Regular flyers and online listings keep an updated calendar – check the official site or social channels for dates. In short, Dead Witch is busy every week: from sweaty weekday local gigs to sold-out punk/metal parties on the weekend.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Dead Witch shows are sold through the venue’s own website or on-site; there’s no separate box office outside event nights. Announcements and online sales usually open a few weeks ahead of each gig. A useful strategy is to sign up for the Ding Dong Lounge newsletter or “Super Member” program: members get early access or discounts (often 50% off) on tickets . Popular or one-off shows (like tribute nights or the band comp finals) tend to sell out fast, so buying online in advance is advised. Most tickets are general admission (single price), typically in the $10–$20 range for club nights, with lower presale rates if booked early . Some events have multiple price tiers (Early Bird vs Door), but importantly, no outside ticket vendor is needed – simply purchase through Ding Dong’s official channels. Note that tickets (even for $5–$10 gigs) often cannot be reserved at the door without pre-paying; if tickets are sold out online, the door may also be sold out. Finally, the venue enforces a strict admission policy: all patrons must show valid photo ID at entry and agree to a zero-tolerance harassment code to keep the space safe and inclusive .
Seating and Layout
Dead Witch is an intimate upstairs room with a stage at one end and mostly open floor space for standing. Unlike the downstairs bar (which has booths and a dance pole), the upstairs venue has little fixed seating. Any chairs or small tables along the edges are for scattered use; in practice most punters stand or move around. The stage is low to the audience, so being up front yields the best view of performers. Because the space is compact, sound is very direct—front-row guys feel every drum hit—so ear plugs are wise for close-in crowds. There are no obstructive balconies or pillars, but view lines can narrow if you hang back or to the sides. In general, the “sweet spot” is a few metres from the stage center – the sound mix is clearest there. Booths are down below, so everyone upstairs is on a flat floor. Acoustically, Dead Witch is optimized for loud rock music: the small room tends to sound raw and live, which fans appreciate for an up-close experience. Avoid standing right near the big speakers (usually at stage sides or above), since it can get piercing; similarly, corners behind the mixing desk may sound muddy. Overall, expect a sweaty club vibe up front or a looser crowd further back, but no bad seat in the house – just an R18, all-ages-unfriendly general admission pit!
Getting There and Parking
Dead Witch’s address is 26 Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD (just off the intersection of Queen Street and Albert Street). If you’re driving, parking is very limited on Wynham itself (metered 2-hour spots at ~$7 NZD) . Better options are nearby public garages a few minutes’ walk away. For example, the ANZ Centre car park (around Wellesley & Wyndham) charges about NZ$8 for 2 hours, while the Farmers/Hobson St lot is ~$17 for 2h . Note these fill up quickly on weekends. Many visitors instead use ride-share or taxis; drop-off is easy on Wyndham St or Durham Lane behind the building. Public transit is the most convenient: Dead Witch is roughly a 5–10 minute walk from Britomart train and bus hub. Trains on the Eastern, Southern and Western lines all stop at Waitematā (Britomart) station a few blocks away . Several city buses (e.g. routes 18, 30, 72X, 76, etc.) stop by nearby Queen/Albert St and Customs St . Ferries from Devonport, Waiheke (CityHopper) and North Shore (Birkenhead/Bayswater) arrive at Downtown Ferry Terminal – about a 15-minute walk from Wyndham St . Once on foot, just walk from Britomart toward Queen St, then cut through Commerce or Customs St to Wyndham. The venue is in the heart of the city centre, so you can also arrive easily from K’Road, the Viaduct or Aotea Square by a 10–15 minute walk down Queen St.
Inside the Venue
On entry at Dead Witch you’ll encounter a classic rock dive-bar atmosphere. Staff will check your ID (18+ only) and tickets (or add you to the list). Expect minimal-frills security – just a quick scan of bags if at all. Inside, the décor is dark and grungy (brick or black-painted walls, vintage band posters, moody lighting). The stage is equipped with fresh live-sound gear and lighting (upgraded heavily since 2019 ), so bands sound full and dynamic. The bar area operates downstairs, but Dead Witch has its own counters or roving servers. Most evenings food from the kitchen is available: the menu features bar comfort fare like American burgers and Korean-style fried chicken (for example, “Honey Soy” or “Sweet & Spicy” chicken wings for NZ$16 with fries). Snacks such as mac-&-cheese bites, jalapeño bites, curly fries, onion rings, etc. round out the late-night menu . Both alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks are served; expect craft beers, cocktails and soft drinks typical of an alternative bar. There’s no formal coat check upstairs – space is tight – but you can usually hang jackets on a rear railing or leave them downstairs. Restrooms are available (usually downstairs) – look for signage or ask staff. Connectivity: there’s no advertised Wi-Fi, so rely on mobile service (though signal is generally decent being in the CBD). Most shows are rowdy, so lighting is dim during sets. General conduct: the venue fosters a friendly, respectful crowd. As noted in their policy, all patrons must abide by a strict no-harassment code during gigs . Aside from that, photography is informal (no flash usually) and the vibes are relaxed: just come ready to rock!
Nearby Amenities
Wyndham Street sits in a lively stretch of downtown Auckland, so there are plenty of pre- and post-show options. For dinner before a gig you could try the upscale Culprit (Italian/NZ fusion) a block over, or casual Asian eateries around Customs and Victoria Streets. Queen Street and nearby Commerce Street have everything from fish & chips and Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches to sushi and upscale restaurants (Asian, Middle-Eastern, etc.). If you want drinks before or after, there are many CBD bars and pubs within a short walk – even the lower-level Ding Dong Lounge itself has booths and a dance pole. Hotels are abundant: the IHG Voco (Wyndham St corner) and Holiday Inn Express (Wyndham/Albert corner) are literally next door, with others like Hotel Indigo and Sudima within a few blocks. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before show time to find parking and beat any lines. Late at night the city is still busy; after 2am you may need a rideshare or taxi. Britomart also runs late-night train shuttles early on weekends. In a pinch, city buses on routes 1 or 101 run past midnight on main roads. For nightlife after the gig, the CBD has clubs and 24-hour diners, but many Dead Witch patrons simply head back to nearby Britomart or KRD area for more late-night action.
What Makes This Venue Special
Dead Witch’s charm lies in its claustrophobic intensity and DIY ethos. Unlike corporate joints, it’s small and unpretentious – punks, goths, metalheads and rock fans mix freely. Its location in a historic 1900s building gives it a gritty character: a heritage brick façade houses a modern punk sanctuary . The venue is legendary for nurturing local talent – many NZ bands have cut their teeth here. Fans love the personal touch: bands often come out into the crowd (or invite fans onstage during encores for classic covers), creating memorable interactive moments. Artists who fill stadiums still return here to play basement-level gigs, proving its reputation. The owners have built a tight-knit community; it’s not unusual to see regulars clapping moshing along as if it’s a home crowd . Dead Witch is also famous for its wild theme nights (for example, a packed goth dance party, or the Ding Dong Band Competition finals that “always sell out” with turn-out rivaling even big acts ). In short, both artists and audience love it because it feels authentic – a house-show atmosphere with serious pro gear. This blend of historic vibe and living culture makes Dead Witch a unique Auckland landmark in live music.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: It’s strictly R18. You must have photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to enter – no exceptions. Under-18s are not permitted. Door Times: Confirm on the event page, but typically doors open 30–60 min before first band; arriving early ensures a good spot. Dress Code: No fancy attire required – think casual rock/alternative wear (jeans, T-shirt, band tee). However, dressing warmly or in layers is wise since it can get hot by the stage. No high heels or large bags for safety reasons. Etiquette: This is a friendly crowd; polite behavior is expected. The venue enforces a strict no-harassment policy , and staff will remove anyone causing trouble. Pro Tip: Earplugs help, as the sound can be very loud up close. Camera/Phones: Phones and cameras are allowed for personal photos, but flashlight usage or professional recording is discouraged. Accessibility: Access to Dead Witch requires stairs (no elevator from street), so it’s not wheelchair-friendly. If you have mobility needs, mention it ahead and the staff may accommodate on a case-by-case basis downstairs. Bags & Security: Expect a quick pat-down or bag check, but there’s no strict bag limit. Don’t bring outside alcohol or food; the bar menu downstairs and snack bar cover your needs. Restrooms: Located on the lower level; ask staff for directions. Scams/Polls: Only buy tickets through official channels (the Ding Dong site) to avoid scams. Weather: The venue is fully indoor, so rain won’t affect your plans, but bear in mind Wellington Street parking can get slippery in rain. Cash/Card: Bar and ticketing take cards, but it’s handy to have some cash for small purchases or tips. Driving Home: Plan ahead – late-night public transport is limited (train and main buses may stop by 2–3am). Ride-share apps (Uber/Spark) work well in the CBD and can queue for you after a show. These tips should help you enjoy Dead Witch safely and comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions How do I buy tickets for a Dead Witch event?
Tickets are usually sold through the venue’s official site (Ding Dong Lounge) or at the door if not sold out. There’s no external ticket platform or box office. Be sure to check the venue’s events page for presale links. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s best to buy online early or grab a “Super Member” discount if available. If a show isn’t sold out, door sales (cash or card) are generally accepted.
What’s the typical ticket price range at Dead Witch?
Prices vary by event. Smaller local band nights often charge ~$5–10 presale (maybe $10–15 on the door) . Bigger gigs or festivals range from $15 up to $20–25. Comedy open-mic nights are usually free or a small koha. Many shows offer earlybird discounts (for example, $15 early vs $20 later) and membership discounts. In short, expect $10–20 for most live music nights.
Is Dead Witch wheelchair accessible?
No, the Dead Witch space is upstairs with only stair access, so it is not wheelchair-accessible. The historic building has no elevator for public use. Patrons with mobility needs should contact the venue in advance to discuss accommodations; the downstairs bar area is at street level, but live performances happen upstairs so the venue is primarily R18 stairs-only.
What is the capacity of Dead Witch?
Dead Witch is a very intimate venue. While an official seating count isn’t published, it’s on the order of a small club – roughly 100–150 people can fit standing. There’s no general seating, just room to stand and move. Because of this limited size, events often fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended if you want to snag a place near the stage.
How do I get to Dead Witch using public transportation?
The venue is a few blocks from Britomart, Auckland’s main train/bus hub. Trains on the Eastern, Southern or Western lines all stop at Waitematā (Britomart) – from there it’s about a 5-minute walk south to Wyndham St . Many central buses (e.g. 18, 30, 72X, etc.) stop on Queen St or Customs St near Wyndham . Auckland ferries dock at the Downtown Ferry Terminal on Quay St, about a 10–15 minute walk to the venue . Rideshares and taxis can drop you right on Wyndham St in front of Ding Dong.
Are there parking options near Dead Witch?
Street parking on Wyndham is very limited (metered 2-hour bays at ~NZ$7/2h). Several paid car parks are within a short walk. For example, the ANZ Centre car park (Wellesley St/Albert St) is about NZ$8 for 2 hours , and the larger Farmers/Hobson lot is about NZ$17 for 2 hours . Be aware these fill quickly on weekends. For convenient arrival, many opt for ride-share drop-off on Wyndham or walk in from nearby Britomart (which has long-term parking). Always check prices and earlybird rates at the car parks for the latest tariffs.
Is there seating available at Dead Witch?
Dead Witch is primarily a standing-room general admission space. There are no permanent theatre seats or booths upstairs – any chairs or stools are used sparingly and not guaranteed. Most kudos gather on the floor. If you prefer a bit of a perch, try to edge near the back wall or corners where a stool might be free, but the crowd is largely on its feet. The previous downstairs bar has booths, but the music happens upstairs in a more club-like environment.
What ID and dress code are required at Dead Witch?
You must be 18 or older with a valid photo ID (passport or New Zealand driver’s license) to enter. There is no formal dress code – casual rock/punk attire is perfectly fine. You’ll see people in everything from jeans and band tees to full gothic/alternative outfits. Do avoid overly beachy or sloppy clothes only because it’s a concert venue. Also, leave large bags and cameras at home if possible. Essentially, dress comfortably but remember you’re in a puckered basement club, so wear layers in case it gets hot.
Are cameras or phones allowed inside Dead Witch?
Personal cameras and smartphones are generally allowed for photos and videos. Most concert-goers snap pictures of the bands or their friends. However, professional recording equipment (large cameras, video rigs) is not permitted without the venue’s approval. Flash photography might be discouraged during performances. Basically, you can film for social media, but respect the artists (no blinding flash in their eyes). No one is checking phones, but be mindful of those around you when using them in the dark.
What food and drink options does Dead Witch offer?
Food-wise, the kitchen serves bar-style comfort grub. A signature is Korean-style fried chicken (e.g. Honey Soy or Sweet & Spicy wings for NZ$16 each) and veggie-friendly versions like spicy cauliflower bites . Other shareable snacks include mac-&-cheese bites, broccoli-cheese bites, jalapeño cheese poppers (NZ$15 each) and sides like curly fries and onion rings . Of course, a full drink menu – beers, ciders, cocktails and non-alcoholics – is available at the bar downstairs. Plan to eat before or grab something quick at the venue; it’s not fine dining but tasty bar food to fuel your night.
Does Dead Witch have wheelchair access and gender-neutral facilities?
As noted, access to Dead Witch requires climbing stairs to the upstairs bar – there is no public elevator. This unfortunately means it is not wheelchair-accessible. Restroom facilities are located downstairs; there’s typically a unisex and a men’s room in the basement. (There is no specific gender-neutral bathroom advertised upstairs.) If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to contact the venue directly before your visit to discuss accommodations.
What safety measures or policies does Dead Witch have?
Dead Witch follows Ding Dong Lounge’s strict code of conduct. There is a posted “zero-tolerance” policy on hate, harassment or violence . Security staff patrol during shows and will remove anyone causing trouble. Typical concert safety tips apply: keep an eye on your drink, care for personal belongings, and watch out near dancing patrons. Emergency exits are marked (staff will help if needed). Overall it’s a very laid-back crowd, but always act responsibly. If you see a problem, staff encourage you to let them know immediately.
Why is it called “Dead Witch” and what is its history?
“Dead Witch” was a creative name given to Ding Dong’s upstairs stage in late 2019. The moniker fits the dark, alternative vibe (the main bar is Ding Dong – think of both phrases from “Witch is dead”!). But more importantly, it marks the venue’s rebirth as a live-music space. Ding Dong’s owners Mat Jorgensen and Andrew Treeby officially “opened” Dead Witch in Dec 2019, investing in new sound and lighting gear . So its history is short but packed: within a few years it became a key underground venue, on par with any legendary Auckland dive. Today the name Dead Witch is synonymous with raw, anarchic concerts in the central city.
Which train station or bus stop is nearest Dead Witch?
The closest train station is Waitematā (Britomart). As mentioned, Britomart is about a 5–10 minute walk from Wyndham Street. Exit the station onto Customs/Commerce St and head towards Wyndham. Key bus stops are on Queen St (near HSBC) or on Customs St – routes 18, 72X, 30, etc. all stop within a couple of blocks . If you’re on foot from Britomart, walking straight up Commerce St through the glass-covered mall will get you there in minutes.
Are there any late-night food or drink options around after shows?
Yes – Wyndham St and the surrounding CBD have many late-night venues. The downstairs Ding Dong Grill (in the same building) often serves snacks like wings late into the night. Otherwise Queen Street and Commerce Street have 24-hour fast-food joints (noodles, burgers, pizza) and some small diners. Also nearby are bars and lounges that serve until 3–4am, especially on weekends. If you finish very late, note that city buses might stop by 2–3am; ride-share is the safest bet after last-call.
Is Dead Witch noisy or overcrowded? Should I bring earplugs?
Dead Witch is a small loft-like space with powerhouse sound. The ceiling is low, and speakers are close, so shows can get very loud up front. If you’re sensitive to noise, yes, bring ear protection. Crowds can pack in tightly for popular acts, but the vibe is friendly (often a packed local audience dancing to every set ). The room does get warm and sweaty, so wearing earplugs (even simple foam ones) can make the experience more comfortable while still letting you enjoy the music. For many fans it’s part of the charm – it feels like a private backyard gig rather than a 5,000-seat stadium.
What time do performances at Dead Witch usually end?
Things typically start late (often 8:30pm or 9pm) and run for at least a couple of hours. The exact end time varies by night, but the bar itself is licensed until 4am . In practice, major gigs conclude around midnight or after. Late-night DJ sets or after-parties can go until 3–4am. Plan your transport accordingly – last trains and buses in Auckland run until the early hours on weekends, but otherwise taxi/Uber might be needed post-midnight.
Is Dead Witch crowded on weekday nights?
Weekday crowds vary by event. Tuesdays (comedy open mic) or other special midweek nights can draw a full house of locals – the 2022 reviews note “Dead Witch had a really good crowd” even on nights competing with big events elsewhere . Generally, Thursday and Friday are busiest. If it’s a headline band or popular local act, you’ll likely find it quite full even on a Wednesday. For free or lesser-known shows (like jam night), midweeks might be lighter. In short, if you’re unsure, assume it can be busy and give yourself extra time.
