Events at Everybody's, Auckland

About Everybody’s

Everybody’s was a downtown Auckland bar and eatery housed in the historic Imperial Building (44 Queen Street, Fort Lane). It opened in late 2011 as part of the refurbished Edwardian-era theatre complex and drew its name from the 100-year-old “Everybody’s Theatre” that originally occupied the space (www.tripadvisor.co.nz) (auckland.scoop.co.nz). Today, visitors would have found an atmospheric, split-level venue blending exposed heritage brick and plasterwork with modern finishes. A soaring ceiling and remnants of ornate mouldings hint at its theatrical past (auckland.scoop.co.nz). The venue encompassed several areas – a main ground-floor bar with high tables and stools, a relaxed dining room and lounge, an open-air courtyard, and an upstairs mezzanine with comfy booths. In total it offered up to around 1,200 patrons across all spaces (www.venuesforhire.co.nz). The menu featured “Modern European inspired” share plates and mains (notably beef cheeks, pork and lamb dishes, and innovative bar snacks) meant to suit all tastes (www.tripadvisor.co.nz) (auckland.scoop.co.nz). In its prime, Everybody’s was regarded as a hidden gem of the CBD laneway scene, filling a once-dormant block with food, drinks and nightlife. (As of 2024 it is listed as permanently closed (heartofthecity.co.nz) (www.nzherald.co.nz).)

Events and Programming

Everybody’s was wired for live entertainment: DJs, bands and performance nights were a regular feature. It staged a mix of club nights, private parties, media after-parties and festival fringe events. For example, it hosted Auckland events like George FM’s “Club Classics” afterparties and was known as an official Pride venue (“Everybody’s Downtown” by name) holding drag and electronic nights called MISBEHAVIOUR (aucklandpride.org.nz). The ticketed calendar included everything from international DJ gigs to local indie concerts. Past line-ups have included US rapper Yelawolf (for an official afterparty in Oct 2022) and UK DJ Cajama (Sept 2022) (www.ticketfairy.com). Other notable events were club showcases such as “Bassline” (June 2021) and music festivals as late as 2019 (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, Everybody’s programming spanned weekly electronic and dance nights, weekend parties and one-off shows. Ticket prices varied by act – often a modest cover (around $10–$20) for club DJ nights, and up to $30–$50 for larger concerts – with free or low-cost entry on most ordinary evenings. (At peak times, covers applied at the door. Most events sold tickets through local outlets or the venue’s box office.)

Tickets and Booking

Because Everybody’s was essentially a bar and club space, everyday entry generally did not require advance tickets. On non-event nights visitors could walk in on a first-come basis, with no cover charge for casual drinking and dining. For special events (live music, DJs, or Pride promotions) tickets went on sale ahead of time through Auckland ticketing channels and the venue’s signage. Popular shows often sold out, so early booking was recommended. Regular patrons typically watched the venue’s website or local event listings for announcements. If available, a limited number of tickets could also be bought at the door on event nights. For table dining or large group bookings (birthday parties, corporate bookings, etc.), reservations were advised via the official booking line – service was primarily delivered at the table by waitstaff. In practice, depositing a quick call or email (listed on the venue’s website) secured tables for dinner; walk-ins were accommodated when space permitted. Ticket pricing varied by event level. Many club nights had low or no cover after 10pm, while headline acts could cost ticket-holders on the order of several tens of dollars.

Seating and Layout

The layout was casual and flexible. On the ground floor a long timber bar ran along one side, with mix-and-mingle bar-leaner tables and stools nearby. Opposite were lounge areas with armchairs and bench seating around low tables. Because the floorplan opened onto an inner courtyard, the ground level felt airy during the day. Upstairs was a raised mezzanine purely for dining and lounging: plush semicircular booths and banquettes ringed the walls, all equipped with service buzzers for drinks. The upstairs level afforded a bird’s-eye view of the bar below (although at full volume that echo could make it a bit noisy up there). A spiral staircase in the lane led up to this first-floor area. For events, most audiences stood on the main floor – the stage area or DJ booth was at the far end of the room. Those wanting a quieter sit-down experience could opt for a booth upstairs with a semi-private feel. (heartofthecity.co.nz) Patrons on the floor often gathered in clusters around high tables or along the bar, which provided a good vantage of the performance area. In practice the best views of any live show were either directly in front of the DJs/stage or from the raised rear platform. (Guests were generally advised to avoid crowding the bar exit area if noisy, as that is a thoroughfare.) The split-level design meant acoustics could carry upward; some felt the upper booths could get loud during big gigs. Advice: baggy gear or shoes that cover the fixed lip running into the venue (mentioned in a few reviews) are safer to avoid tripping on the step entering the main space.

Getting There and Parking

Everybody’s sat in the heart of Auckland’s CBD at 7 Fort Lane (Imperial Lane), just off Queen Street between Fort Street and Federal Street. It is a short walk from Britomart Station (approximately 8–10 minutes) and the downtown ferry terminals. Queen Street itself is served by many frequent bus routes day and night – for example, central-city Link buses (free inner-city service) stop nearby. The popular express SkyBus from the airport has a stop at Victoria Street (near the ferry terminal), within five minutes on foot. Rideshare apps and taxis can drop off on Federal Street or Queen Street close by (the lane entrance is somewhat tucked away, so follow signage for “Imperial Lane/Everybody’s” once there). Street parking is very limited, so most visitors use city carparks. For example, the Victoria Street West car park (on the adjacent city block) offers cheap rates after hours ($2.50 per hour evenings and weekends) (heartofthecity.co.nz). The nearest 24/7 parking building is Wilson Parking at 27 Fort Street (about a 5-minute walk), with rates from roughly $8 per half-hour on weekdays (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). Several other commercial garages lie within a block radius (e.g. Civic Square carpark) at similar prices. Like all CBD venues, public transport is recommended – trains and buses run until around midnight, and if staying later rideshares or night buses can be used. NZ buses typically stop running around 11pm in the city center, so plan accordingly. Footpaths are well-lit but note Fort Lane itself is a narrow pedestrian laneway; it’s safe at night but mind your surroundings. Note that the venue’s main door opens onto a small alley, so look for a subtle sign or the lanterns marking the bar.

Inside the Venue

Upon entering, guests encountered standard security measures. ID checks were common after 10pm (patrons must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol). All visitors (especially after-hours clubbers) should carry valid photo ID (NZ driver licence or passport for locals, preferably passport for foreign guests) due to strict liquor laws. The basic bag policy was to allow standard purses and backpacks, but large rucksacks or outside food/drink were prohibited. Cameras and phones were fine as long as pictures remained personal – flash photography during shows was sometimes discouraged out of courtesy. Inside, cell coverage was strong (Auckland’s city centre gets excellent 4G from all carriers), so digital tickets or messaging works without issue. Free venue Wi-Fi was often available, though many guests also relied on the city’s public mesh network (Auckland City免费的Wi-Fi) or personal data. The atmosphere combined rustic charm with a bustling bar vibe: exposed-brick walls, low ambient lighting by night, and polished wooden tables. The main bar offered full table service to upstairs booths (via call buttons) and counter service downstairs. A wide drinks menu included boutique beers, craft wines and creative cocktails. The eatery side served shareable plates – think gourmet sausages, bread boards, charcoal-grilled meats and vegetarian options – until late evening. Traditionally, happy hour ran in the early evening (4pm–6pm) with rotating specials (e.g. $1 oysters and discounted drinks), though patrons should verify deals via social media or staff on the day. Restrooms were located downstairs; note one review mentioned staff closing the upstairs bathrooms during peak times, forcing walk-down to ground floor facilities (www.tripadvisor.co.nz). Those with mobility needs found it mostly accessible: the ground floor had wide doorways and at least one elevator to reach the mezzanine, and a disabled toilet was available. (www.tripadvisor.co.nz) (The entrance has a small step from the lane into the bar, however, which may require assistance.)

Nearby Amenities

The entire Fort Lane/Imperial Precinct is a dining and nightlife hub. Adjacent to Everybody’s is the sophisticated Roxy restaurant (same building, first floor) featuring fine dining outings (auckland.scoop.co.nz). At ground level of the laneway sits Elske patisserie – a European-style bakery known for pastries and coffee (auckland.scoop.co.nz) – perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a morning treat. Within a block are many popular cafes and bars: for example, just steps away is The Pint Shop (craft beers), and on nearby Queen Street there are numerous eateries ranging from rock-star barbecue joints to upscale sushi bars. A short walk up Queen Street brings you to the vibrant Britomart precinct (with its ferry connections, hotels and restaurants). Within five minutes walking distance are the Viaduct Harbour bars and restaurants – a favourite for pre-show dining on seafood or pizza. Inside the CBD, some standout choices include how “White + Wongs” for Asian fusion, “Monsoon Poon” for Thai cuisine, or “Federal Delicatessen” for deli-style comfort food, all under a 10-minute walk. For sweets or coffee, in addition to Elske one can try nearby cafes like Remedy or Ozone. If staying in town, several hotels are very close: e.g. the SkyCity Grand, Pullman Hotel, or Cordis Auckland – all within 5–10 minutes’ walk. Because Auckland is compact, one can often walk from the central train station (Britomart) in under 10 minutes via Queen Street. If arriving by ferry (to downtown), Everybody’s is also a 5–7 minute walk. Late-night post-show, cabs and ride-shares line the street corners near the laneway; some hotels even offer shuttle services back to the suburbs for big events (so ask your driver or concierge).

What Makes This Venue Special

Everybody’s earned a unique place in Auckland’s cultural scene for several reasons. Architecturally, it is housed in a heritage-protected, century-old structure – in fact, the Imperial building was once New Zealand’s first cinema (www.venuesforhire.co.nz) – that was painstakingly restored. The juxtaposition of its “decayed glamour” (opaline plasterwork, blackened brick from old theatre fires) and modern lounge décor is eye-catching (auckland.scoop.co.nz). Its semi-hidden entrance off the narrow laneway gave it a speakeasy feel and made visiting feel like discovering a secret spot. Culturally, it became a symbol of the revitalized laneways of downtown Auckland, part of a trend that drew inspiration from cities like Melbourne and New York (auckland.scoop.co.nz). Locally, it was beloved for hosting both casual after-work crowds on weekdays and lively dance parties on weekends – “something for everybody,” as the name implies. It also gained a reputation as an LGBTQ+-friendly venue: during annual Pride celebrations it was branded “Everybody’s Downtown” and served as a hub for drag and queer dance nights (aucklandpride.org.nz). Long-time patrons recall legendary nights spent dancing under the open sky of the courtyard or on the mezzanine overlooking the DJs. Its sister venues Roxy (upstairs) and nearby bars by the same owners added to a consistent nightlife network, but Everybody’s itself was known as the more relaxed, all-ages (early evening) and later-night spot. In reviews, visitors often noted “awesome atmosphere” and treasured menu items as memorable. In short, Everybody’s was more than just a bar – it was a showpiece of downtown history turned into a social hotspot. (Its 2024 closure was widely lamented in the city for exactly this reason (www.nzherald.co.nz) (www.rova.nz).)

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Everybody’s generally met modern accessibility standards. The main entrance has a small step, but an alternate entrance/ elevator in the lane provides step-free access to the ground floor. An elevator connects to the mezzanine and a wheelchair-accessible toilet is available. As mentioned, the venue is on the second floor of a historic building, so be prepared for one short flight if needed. If you require assistance or have concerns, let a staff member know on arrival.

What to Bring: Always carry valid photo ID (18+ rule after dark) and some cash (small bills) or credit card for drinks and food. Bags and coats can be left in a free cloakroom (when busy, the coat rack is discreet at the back). Dress code is smart-casual – there’s no strict uniform, but clubgoers often wear neat jeans or evening wear, especially later at night. You may bring a small camera or smartphone for photos, but professional cameras require management approval. Outside food/drinks are not allowed. Due to the floor level change at the entrance, moderate heels or sensible shoes are recommended to avoid tripping on the lip.

Age, Safety, and Policies: Everybody’s enforced an 18+ age limit after dark (the legal drinking age). Under-18s were usually welcome for early lunches or family dinners before 8pm, but asked to leave by late evening. Bags were typically patted down at the door on busy nights, and any prohibited items (illegal substance, glassware from outside) would be refused. Smoking is banned indoors by law – there was a small sheltered outdoor area for smokers in the courtyard. Staff took safety seriously: if the venue filled up, security controlled entry via a guest-list or wristbands for events. The venue had camera surveillance in public areas. Common mistakes: failing to book dinner ahead on weekends (leading to long waits), or expecting quiet conversation during peak DJ sets. It’s also wise to check event end-times – the bar usually stopped serving alcohol by 1:30am (standard Auckland last call) and music cut off by 2am. Tipping is appreciated in NZ (around 10% for table service) but not mandatory. Lastly, it’s a friendly place – feel free to ask the bartender about the menu or daily specials.

Frequently Asked Questions