About Lower Hobson Street
Lower Hobson Street (1 Lower Hobson Street) is the address of a well‐known central Auckland bar/club often called “The Carpark.” It isn’t a theatre but an underground‐style lounge and dance venue carved out of an old multi‐storey car park. The space has a gritty, industrial feel “in a former parking‐structure building,” giving it a distinctive raw character (www.ticketfairy.com ). For nearly two decades it’s operated as a casual bar/club hybrid with a broad appeal – described even as “exclusive but unpretentious…like having friends over” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its official capacity is about 320 people (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Signature features include a very long bar, wrap‐around booth seating along the walls, a rooftop patio deck on the corner, and a wood-fired pizza oven (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue is fully licensed (beer, wine, cocktails) and a familiar destination for after‐work drinks and weekends in downtown Auckland (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Lower Hobson Street’s schedule is driven by nightlife rather than scheduled concerts. Most nights host DJs and dance parties: expect funk, soul and disco sets, electronic/house nights, live dance bands, or theme parties (salsa, retro, or 80s/90s nights). Regular club nights typically run Thu–Sat, opening around 8:30pm and going late into the night (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). The venue also hosts special events promoted by local music collectives – for example, a “Groove Garden” dance event (by Drunk On Sound) was held in winter 2021 at The Carpark (www.ticketfairy.com ). Additionally, Lower Hobson Street is a popular venue for private hire: cocktail classes, fashion or product launches, and corporate after‐parties are common. Management advertises it as available for up to ~200 guests for functions (www.ticketfairy.com ). In summary, you’ll find a steady stream of late-night DJ nights, themed dance events, and the occasional special or community party. Because it’s essentially a club‐style lounge, one-off headline concerts are rare – instead think of it as a go‐to spot for regular dance music and social events. (During 2020–21 Auckland’s COVID lockdowns it went quiet like other venues, but it resumed full programming once restrictions lifted.)
Tickets and Booking
Most nights require tickets or RSVP, especially the bigger DJ events. Tickets are usually sold online (through local ticket platforms or the venue’s social media) well in advance. Early‐bird or presale tickets are common and recommended – events often sell out. If a night isn’t sold out, limited door tickets may be available on arrival (at a higher price). Typical entry prices run around NZ$15–25 per person (www.ticketfairy.com ). For looser nights or early evening, there may be no fee at first (the bar may open free and then add a cover charge later on busy nights (www.ticketfairy.com )). There’s no permanent box office at Lower Hobson Street; ticket sales are handled online, although the front desk will scan e-tickets or sell any remaining door passes on event nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re planning a private party or club hire, you can book the venue directly – it accommodates corporate functions, birthdays, hen/stag parties, etc., for groups of up to ~200 people (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short: watch the venue’s event announcements and links for sales, buy early when possible, and bring your digital tickets or ID to the door.
Seating and Layout
The interior is open-plan, more lounge than formal auditorium. On entering, you’ll see one long bar along a side wall with bar stools and taps (www.ticketfairy.com ). Around the perimeter are padded booth seats (leather or vinyl) where groups can sit comfortably (www.ticketfairy.com ). In front of the bar and DJ booth is generally a dance floor or standing area. Toward the back or on a mezzanine level, there’s a roofed deck (“an awesome outdoor deck” (www.ticketfairy.com )) that opens to the street corner – a great smoking area and fresh-air break in good weather. Acoustically the layout is typical of a mid-sized club (bass-forward sound system), with sightlines open across the floor so the DJ/stage can be seen from most spots (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no fixed, numbered seats or a formal balcony; seating is unreserved. However, on busy nights some of the lounge booths can be set aside as table service/VIP seating for larger parties. The front‐centre near the stage gets the loudest, most energetic sound; the corner booths give a full room view in comfort. In short, it’s mostly general admission: you can lounge in a booth or stand/dance near the DJ. The venue holds about 320 people total (www.sharedspace.co.nz ).
Getting There and Parking
Lower Hobson Street is in the Auckland CBD, just west of Customs Street. Its address is 1 Lower Hobson Street (corner of Customs St W), an easy 5–10 minute walk from the CBD waterfront and Britomart Station. If coming by public transit, the central hub is Britomart (train and bus); from there it’s under 400m to Lower Hobson via Customs Street. Multiple bus routes run along Quay Street, Customs Street or Wyndham/Fanshawe that stop nearby – check AT’s network maps for exact lines. There is no dedicated “venue parking” but several car parks are very close by. The big downtown car park at 31 Customs St W (Auckland Transport’s Downtown Car Park) is literally across the street (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). It’s multi-level with about 1,944 spaces (and roughly NZ$4 for 2 hours) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). A Wilson Parking lot at the Viaduct (15–17 Sturdee St) has 350 spaces and charges about $6/hour ($12 for 2h) (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). Other paid options include the ANZ Centre car park (Horstman St, ~$8/2h) and the Farmers Building car park (915 spaces, ~$34/2h) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). A small private parking lane (13–21 Hobson St) has ~13 spots about a block away (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). Weaving around the CBD can be tricky in peak hours: if using rideshare or taxi, the drop-off on Lower Hobson or Customs St is usually best. Note that Auckland’s CBD has many one-way streets, so GPS or apps (like Waze) help navigate. Overall, public transport or walking from Britomart is often easiest; if driving, allow extra time to find a nearby lot.
Inside the Venue
Expect a relaxed yet lively club atmosphere. Doors typically open around 8:30pm (Wed–Sat) (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). When you arrive, you’ll go through standard security – have your photo ID ready since it’s an alcohol-licensed venue (18+ after dark) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The staff enforce a strict dress code: dress-to-impress is expected – no T-shirts, shorts, worn-out shoes or jandals (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You will be asked to deposit any camera or smartphone at the door; their policy is a strict “no phones/cameras” rule (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ) (phones may be left in lockers or behind the bar to ensure everyone is present in the moment (www.ticketfairy.com )). Inside, the lighting is moody but sufficient; you’ll find bartenders along the bar serving drinks and staff circulating near the booths. The licence allows beer, wine and cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ), and there’s a kitchen turning out wood-fired pizzas and snacks at very reasonable prices (one review notes “gourmet pizzas at prices that can’t be beat” (www.sharedspace.co.nz )). You can hang a coat at the entrance or on rack near the bar – there’s no formal coat-check, but you can store jackets on the racks provided (www.ticketfairy.com ). Restrooms are on-site (usually a men’s and women’s bathroom near the back/side). If you need a quick break, the back deck offers fresh air and a covered smoking area (www.ticketfairy.com ). Generally there’s no Wi-Fi (and in any case phones are locked up), so soak in the live vibe. Service is friendly – many patrons cite the “great bar staff and tasty pizzas” as highlights (www.cvent.com ). In short, come prepared with valid ID, cash or card for a cover if needed (~$15–20), keys or essentials in a small wallet (no backpacks) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and enjoy a lively under-the-city party atmosphere.
Nearby Amenities
Because Lower Hobson Street sits on the edge of Britomart and the waterfront, there are plenty of nearby food and drink options. Directly adjacent you’ll find casual bars and cafés on Lower Queen and Customs Streets. Within 2–5 minutes’ walk are major dining precincts: Britomart (lots of eateries and rooftop bars just a block north), Wynyard Quarter (restaurants like Baduzzi, Sid at The French Cafe, and food trucks at the Park), and the Viaduct Harbour (portsiders like White & Wong’s Thai and multiple seafood bars). For quick bites before a show, popular nearby spots include gourmet pizza at Depot or Elliot Stables (Bach), coffee and pastries at La Cigale farmers market (Fri/Sat-Sun) and casual gastropubs around Fanshawe/Fort Streets. Hotels in walking range include The Grand Chancellor (Hobson St) and the Britomart luxury hotel, handy if you need a place to crash. In the immediate area you’ll also find late-night takeaways (poker parlour kebabs) and 24-hour convenience shops. Late-night transport is fairly easy too: Britomart’s taxi stands and late buses flow every night, and Uber/taxis can be caught from Customs or Quay St nearby. In summary, whether for a full dinner or just pre-drinks, Lower Hobson Street is surrounded by a lively mix of bars, a few pubs, fine-dining restaurants and room‐service hotels – plenty of choices to shape your night out in the centre of Auckland.
What Makes This Venue Special
Lower Hobson Street (The Carpark) stands out for its distinctive personality. First, its unique backend is hard to miss – the raw concrete pillars and open ceiling of the old parking garage give the club an underground “industrial” vibe that doesn’t feel like a polished nightclub (www.ticketfairy.com ). The strict no-phone policy is rare among bars today, fostering an experience where people actually talk and dance without distraction (www.ticketfairy.com ). The combination of a cozy lounge (with heated booths and leather seating) and a thumping dance floor means you can easily switch from chilling with friends to center-stage grooving. Its outdoor deck is a bonus – classic Auckland: an urban rooftop corner with heat lamps to smoke or chat in the open air (www.ticketfairy.com ). Another special draw is the price: patrons often note the surprisingly affordable gourmet pizza menu (no one expects a late-night slice this good at a club!) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Historically, The Carpark has been a fixture of downtown nightlife – surviving trends for 10+ years by remaining low-key and friendly. It’s also a hidden gem for visiting acts on after-show runs, making it an important hub not just for locals but for touring DJs. Despite lacking flashy trappings, it’s beloved for its honest vibe and consistency. In effect, Lower Hobson Street has become a local tradition – the one place to go for a reliably fun night of music without pretense. Big-name city events have used it for underground afterparties exactly because its atmosphere is “almost like having friends over” (www.ticketfairy.com ) without the elitism. All told, this slice of Hobson Street has a character of its own: an intimate, rock-and-roll soul in the heart of the city’s skyscrapers, which keeps both artists and audiences coming back year after year.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Carpark is not noted as fully wheelchair-accessible. The entrance is at street level, but if mobility is a concern it’s best to inquire beforehand. Inside is one floor (no upstairs seating areas aside from the open deck) so once past the door it's straightforward to move about.
Age & ID: Since it’s liquor-licensed, the club is strictly 18+ in the evenings. Have photo ID ready at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Some rare weekend day events may allow younger guests, but normal nights require 18+.)
Dress Code: Aim smart-casual or “dress to impress.” No tee-shirts, shorts, sport shoes or gumboots (jandals) are allowed (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). Overdressing casually can get you denied.
Phones/Cameras: This is a phone-free zone. You must leave all cameras and phones at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bring only essentials in a small wallet or pouch (www.ticketfairy.com ). This rule speeds security checks and encourages you to enjoy the music and people.
Bags & Valuables: Large bags are discouraged; just a small purse or wallet is ideal (www.ticketfairy.com ). Coats can be hung on racks by the entrance or bar (no formal cloakroom) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Keep personal items with you as the venue takes no responsibility for lost belongings.
Arrival Time: On busy nights, doors usually open ~8:30pm (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). For sold-out events, tickets can go fast. Tip: book early and arrive at or before opening to avoid disappointment (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Early entry often means cheaper/no cover for a while.
Transportation: Late-night trains and buses run to Britomart, a short walk away. Taxis/Ubers can drop off on Customs St or Lower Hobson. If you drive, nearby car parks (Downtown AT carpark, Viaduct, ANZ Centre, etc.) are safer than street parking.
Other Tips: It's customary to keep the vibe friendly and respectful. The strict no-phone policy means expect to be engaged in the music and company. Booth seating is great for groups, so gather friends in advance if possible. On a typical busy weekend, expect room to fill up – if you plan to dance, maybe choose different footwear or booth seating. Remember that after midnight the door staff might enforce a gate or raise the cover price.
Nearby Facilities: There are restrooms inside (usually near the back or side). There are no ATMs inside, so bring cash if you plan to tip or buy merchandise. The Wi-Fi is not available, so plan ahead for meeting up.
By following these tips (and the venue’s posted rules), you’ll have a smooth, fun night at Lower Hobson Street – a truly unique Auckland nightlife experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Lower Hobson Street’s venue?
The club space at 1 Lower Hobson Street holds approximately 320 people (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). This includes all standing and booth seating areas. Because the layout is open-plan (mostly general admission), this capacity is an estimate, but it’s quoted around 320 guests total.
Are there fixed seats or reserved tables at Lower Hobson Street?
No, seating is not fixed or numbered. The venue functions like a lounge/club. It has booth and leather seating around the edges, plus standing areas and a dance floor in the center (www.ticketfairy.com ). On busy nights, some booths may be reserved as table service for bottle service, but these aren’t pre-sold to the general public. You can arrive early to claim a booth or stand where you prefer, but there’s no assigned seating.
How much do tickets usually cost for events at Lower Hobson Street?
Ticket prices vary by event, but as a rule of thumb club nights and DJ parties are typically around NZ$15–25 per person (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some special events may be higher if they feature bigger DJs. There are often early-bird (online) prices and door prices; the listing notes that covers “on average, expect to pay around NZ$15–25” (www.ticketfairy.com ). On less busy evenings, entry may be free until later and then a cover charge applied (so sometimes you can get in early at no charge and pay cover later on).
Where can I buy tickets for Lower Hobson Street events?
Tickets are sold through standard NZ event outlets (like Eventfinda, Ticketmaster or local ticketing sites) or via the venue’s social media announcements (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no on-site box office { present; all ticket sales are online (www.ticketfairy.com ). After you buy, the venue will scan your e-ticket at the door. If tickets are still available, a limited number may be sold at the door on the night, but advance purchase online is safer. To secure a spot for popular nights, it’s best to buy as soon as tickets go on sale (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the address of Lower Hobson Street venue?
The venue is located at 1 Lower Hobson Street, Auckland . This street corner is just off Customs Street West in the CBD. In fact, Auckland Transport’s Downtown Car Park (31 Customs St W) is right next door (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). Lower Hobson Street sits between Customs and the Viaduct area, close to Britomart. It’s a short walk from the ferry and train terminals in downtown Auckland.
What are my parking options near Lower Hobson Street?
There is no dedicated venue parking, but several lots are within easy walking distance. The AT Downtown Car Park (31 Customs St) is a large multi-storey lot adjacent to Lower Hobson (with ~1,944 spaces (www.parkopedia.co.nz ), roughly NZ$4 for 2 hours). Wilson Parking’s Viaduct Car Park (15–17 Sturdee St, about 3 min walk) offers 350 spaces at around $6 per hour ($12/2h) (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). Other nearby lots include the ANZ Centre parking (Horstman St, ~NZ$8/2h) or the Farmers Building garage on Hobson St (35 Hobson, ~$34/2h) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). A small uncovered lot at 13-21 Hobson St has ~13 spaces (often the first to fill) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). On-street parking is very limited. In practice, many guests use the Downtown or Viaduct car parks, or else take public transport/taxi and avoid the parking scramble.
Is Lower Hobson Street wheelchair accessible?
The venue is on street level, but detailed accessibility info isn’t readily published. It’s an older building with concrete floors. While there isn’t a prominent stairway or multiple floors inside, the entrance is a doorway off the sidewalk (so there may be a small step). Given the lack of clear signage on accessibility, if mobility access is needed we recommend calling the venue ahead of time. (Guests have noted there is a wide main area, but be prepared to ask staff for assistance).
Is Lower Hobson Street a family-friendly venue?
Generally no – it’s an adults-only nightlife spot. The venue opens in the evenings for club events, and after dark it’s strictly 18+ (ID required) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In fact, one source notes that after 8pm it’s 18+ and IDs will be checked at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some weekday private events or early-evening bookings may occasionally permit younger guests, but these are exceptions. If you’re planning an evening visit, treat it as a 18+ club environment.
What is the dress code for the venue?
There is a strict dress code. Patrons are expected to dress smartly (“dress to impress”). No casual T-shirts, shorts, trackpants or flip-flops (jandals) are allowed (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). A business-casual or smart evening outfit is recommended. One review explicitly advises: “Don’t turn up overdressed casually – business casual goes a long way” (www.ticketfairy.com ). The door host may turn you away if you’re in overly casual attire.
Can I bring my phone or camera inside?
No, electronic devices are not allowed on the dance floor. In line with the venue’s policy, you must leave all phones and cameras at the door upon entry (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ). This strict “no phone/camera” rule is enforced to keep the focus on the live experience. Small rented lockers or a coat-check may be available to store your phone securely while you enjoy the night.
Does the venue serve food or is it just drinks?
The venue has a casual bar menu, most famously wood-fired pizzas. It’s known for affordable “gourmet” pizza offerings (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). There may be other snacks or bar bites, but pizza is a highlight. Full bar service is available – beer, wine, and cocktails – given it’s fully licensed (www.ticketfairy.com ). Outside food or drink is not permitted; only items purchased from the bar/kitchen are allowed. So plan to eat and drink on-site if you’re dining or snacking.
Is there a coat check or lockers?
There is no formal coat-check counter. However, patrons are allowed to hang coats on provided racks or hooks near the entrance or bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue mentions you can bring a coat to hang at the entrance. For belongings beyond a coat (like a phone locker key), they often provide small lockers for mobile phones (since phones are left at the door). In practice, just keep valuables in a small wallet or pouch to minimize what you carry, as there is no staffed secure storage.
Are smokers allowed inside or outside?
Smoking is not allowed on the indoor dance floor (as it is a closed/bar space). However, the club has an outdoor roofed deck area where you can smoke. The listing describes an “outdoor deck” toward the back of the venue where patrons can step outside for fresh air or a cigarette (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note that this deck is still part of the venue area (so you can bring your drink out there), and it has heaters. In bad weather, this area might be closed or covered.
What are common mistakes visitors make at this venue?
Common pitfalls include underestimating how quickly events can sell out – always buy tickets early if it’s a popular night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Another is coming too casually dressed (the smart-casual dress code is strictly enforced) (www.stylishhobson.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some visitors are surprised by the no-phones policy – remember to leave smartphones and cameras at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ), otherwise you won’t be allowed in. Also, bringing large bags is discouraged (stick to a small purse or wallet) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short: dress sharp, secure your gear, and get there with time to spare.
What is special about Lower Hobson Street’s atmosphere?
The Carpark is known for its laidback, “party with friends” vibe. Unlike a glossy nightclub, its space feels industrial and real – reviewers mention it even feels “like having friends over” (www.ticketfairy.com ). The strict phone-free policy makes loud music and social interaction the focus, which many guests love. Its long-established presence and friendly staff (as one source praises “great bar staff and tasty pizzas” (www.cvent.com )) also help. Essentially, it’s a gritty, no-frills venue where locals go for an unpretentious good time. The combination of a cozy lounge area and a lively dance floor (plus outdoor deck) creates an atmosphere that’s both intimate and energetic.
How early should I arrive if I want to guarantee entry?
If there’s no advance sale or if the event is advertised as “sell out,” aim to arrive right at opening (usually ~8:30pm). The venue advises booking early if it’s popular, to avoid disappointment (www.ticketfairy.com ). On ultra-busy weekend nights, guests often queue just before doors open. Getting there early means you can secure a good spot near the bar or stage. Late arrivals on sold-out nights may be turned away, or end up paying a higher cover at the door. In practice, arriving 30–45 minutes before any scheduled start time is wise for major events (check the specific event details), since the crowd can swell quickly.
