About Nectar
Nectar is a popular bar and live music venue in Auckland’s Kingsland neighbourhood, housed in the historic Kingslander pub building. The Kingslander itself was “established in 2005” in a 19th-century grain store (www.myguideauckland.com ), and Nectar occupies the upstairs level. The space was redeveloped as a private event bar with a fully equipped cocktail lounge, raised seating area and a sheltered rooftop courtyard (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). It’s intimate in size (capacity ~150 people (thekingslander.squarespace.com )) and features polished timber floors and exposed brick that nod to the building’s heritage. Signature features include multiple bars (one at the centre and a raised lounge) and an outdoor deck (sheltered by a roof) (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). Because it’s just a block from Eden Park and even the Kingsland train station (www.thekingslander.co.nz ), Nectar is a cornerstone of Kingsland’s nightlife – blending the sports-bar energy below with an upstairs club atmosphere. Even on game days the crowd spills upstairs, making Nectar part of the local scene for drinks, live music and social events.
Events and Programming
Nectar hosts a mix of musical events nearly every week. On Friday and Saturday nights you might find cover bands, rock or pop groups and tribute acts (the venue’s website even advertises “Live Bands Every Saturday” (www.thekingslander.co.nz )). It also regularly features DJ and dance parties – local promoters have staged house and techno nights upstairs (for example, a “No Man’s Land” house/tech-house party was held in June 2022 (www.ticketfairy.com )). Other events include open-mic or jazz nights, themed parties and product/EP launches. In a typical week you can expect anything from indie band gigs to retro DJ sets, providing eclectic programming. Ticket prices depend on the act – small local shows may be under $20 while bigger headline nights can be $25–$30+. Because the venue is small, popular shows often sell out quickly. For example, one recent gig ran from 8pm until 3am (www.ticketfairy.com ), and all listed attendees had to be age 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, Nectar’s calendar is packed with live music and dance events, generally starting in the evening and continuing late into the night.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Nectar events are usually sold in advance through the event promoters or venue – there’s no physical box office at the door. For most shows, you buy tickets online (via ticketing platforms) or through local outlets; if a show isn’t sold out, you can also pay at the door when the event starts. Pricing varies by act: local-cover bands and up-and-coming DJs often charge around $10–$20, while more established acts can be $25–$35. The Kingslander/Nectar social media and mailing list will announce new shows and presales, so fans can get tickets early. Box-office or door sales may open an hour before showtime, but for big events it’s best to pre-book in case tickets run out. (For example, one June 2022 party at Nectar was listed as “sold out” at closing (www.ticketfairy.com ).) In summary, follow the venue’s listings for new events, and plan to buy tickets early to secure a spot.
Seating and Layout
Nectar is an open-plan bar with no fixed seating for events, so it’s mostly general admission. The floorplan is divided into three main areas: the indoor bar area, a raised lounge with couches or high tables, and an adjoining covered outdoor courtyard (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). The stage or DJ booth is up front, and much of the crowd stands on the main floor or dances near the stage. Loungers and VIPs often perch in the raised lounge along the side for a more relaxed view. Because the room is small, even people at the back can hear clearly, but front-and-center or on the raised side gives the most direct view of performers. There are also bartop stools and high tables by the bar itself. One trip reviewer noted that even when crowded, staff would bring drinks out to tables for large groups (www.tripadvisor.com ). Acoustically, any spot near the speakers will get loud, so ear protection is common at DJ nights. Overall, Nectar has a club-like layout: dancing in front of the stage, with premium seating to the sides, and a small outside patio if you need a break from the crowd.
Getting There and Parking
Nectar is at 470 New North Road, Kingsland (Auckland 1021) (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). It’s literally a one-minute walk from Kingsland Train Station, making it very easy by rail (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). By bus, frequent routes (like the 20 and 24) run along New North Road and Dominion Road, servicing Kingsland village. If you drive, street parking on New North Road is limited and time-restricted during the day. The nearest pay parking is the Wilson parking lot at 4 Kingsland Terrace, about a two-minute walk from the venue – it charges roughly NZ$3 per half hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Rideshares or taxis can drop patrons off right outside the front entrance. Just keep in mind that on big game days or event nights the area gets busy, so allow extra time. In practice, most locals take the train or a taxi to avoid parking hassles, since the train station is so close.
Inside the Venue
On entering Nectar (through The Kingslander’s lobby and up the stairs or elevator), you’ll find a lively bar atmosphere. Expect music thumping from ceiling speakers and lighting that changes with the show. There’s a main bar manned by friendly bartenders (reviewers often note how helpful the staff are (www.tripadvisor.com )), serving a broad array of drinks. Beverage options include multiple local craft beers on tap, international lagers, ciders and spirits, plus a full cocktail menu (often with creative house specials). The kitchen serves hearty pub food: think burgers, schnitzels, ribs, buffalo wings and share platters. For example, a reviewer mentioned that the Kingslander’s burger and chips portion was “sizeable” (concreteplayground.com ), and the menu fabours items like fried chicken, salads and large combo meals (www.ubereats.com ) (www.ubereats.com ). The bar will also drop packs of nuts or fries. There is no formal coat check, so you’ll carry any coat or backpack with you (room to hang a jacket on a hook or chair). Restrooms are located inside (mainly downstairs) and include at least one accessible toilet. (The Kingslander is officially listed as “accessible” (concreteplayground.com ), meaning wheelchair users can navigate the ground floor – though the upstairs Nectar area may require stairs.) There’s typically no venue Wi-Fi for guests, so phone data is used. Finally, note that outside food/drink is not allowed inside Nectar – everything must be purchased from the bar.
Nearby Amenities
The Kingsland neighbourhood offers plenty of options for pre- or post-show outings. Right around Eden Park and the train station (just across the road), you’ll find cafés, casual eateries and bars. For example, the Kingsland Social (a café/diner on New North Road) is a local favourite for brunch (www.tripadvisor.com ). A short stroll further up New North Road brings you to Turkish and Italian cafés, and cocktail bars – so you can grab dinner or a coffee before your Nectar gig. The shopping strip has a grocery store and liquor store too, in case you need last-minute supplies before heading in. For late-night afterparties, Kingsland’s main street has some bars and pubs staying open. In terms of accommodation, a notable nearby hotel is the Nesuto Stadium Inn (formerly Novotel), located just a few blocks toward Dominion Road – it’s very handily close to both Eden Park and the venue. Other downtown or inner-city hotels are a short drive away. Finally, public transport runs late: on Friday and Saturday nights Auckland’s trains continue until about midnight or beyond, and all-night buses cover major routes. So catching a late ride home is generally easy from this central spot in Kingsland.
What Makes This Venue Special
Nectar’s uniqueness comes from its blend of a historic setting with a cutting-edge nightlife vibe. Housed in one of Kingsland’s oldest buildings – a 19th-century grain store (www.myguideauckland.com ) – it retains a charming old-world interior (xeroxed brick walls and timber beams) while pumping modern beats upstairs. Reviewers praise the Kingslander’s “splendid versatility” for seamlessly switching between a sports pub and an upstairs music venue (concreteplayground.com ). This versatility is Nectar’s allure: during major sports fixtures the crowd inside is buzzing, then immediately after they flip the mood for live shows. The atmosphere is consistently energetic and friendly – people often mention the staff’s hospitality and the community feel of the place (www.tripadvisor.com ). Unlike huge arenas, Nectar’s relatively small size means every show feels intimate: fans are practically on top of the band, and DJs can interact directly with the crowd. Over the years it’s become a cultural fixture in Kingsland – a place where local legends have launched EPs and countless bands play their early gigs. In short, Nectar matters because it embodies Kingsland’s village vibe: a reliably good time in a cosy heritage building just a stone’s throw from Eden Park (www.myguideauckland.com ) (concreteplayground.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor of The Kingslander (street level) is wheelchair-accessible (concreteplayground.com ), but Nectar’s functional spaces are upstairs. Patrons needing level access should call ahead. Entry: Nectar events are typically 18+ – be ready to show photo ID (young adults often swipe student or driver’s licenses). Dress code is casual (no special attire required), though some event nights might be themed. Bring earplugs if you’re sensitive – live music can be very loud. What to bring: A small bag is fine but expect bag checks for bigger events. Don’t bring outside food or drink. Cellphone use is okay but out of courtesy keep cameras to smartphones (no flash photography during concerts). Practical notes: If coming by car, plan extra time for parking. If from out of town, remember Auckland’s late-night trains (and cab services) run on weekends – the venue even advertises its proximity to Kingsland Station (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). Also, allow a few minutes at the start to orient yourself – the upstairs bar of The Kingslander is accessed via its main entrance. Lastly, arrive early: popular shows can fill up fast, and being first through the door means claiming prime spots near the stage or lounge.
How can I purchase tickets for Nectar events and what price range should I expect?
Tickets are usually sold by the event promoters or online platforms, since there’s no on-site box office. Smaller gigs often cost around NZ$10–$20, while bigger concerts might be NZ$25–$30 or more. You can also sometimes buy at the door if not sold out. Because Nectar’s capacity is limited, popular shows frequently sell out, so it’s best to book early when tickets are announced.
Where is Nectar located and how do I get there?
Nectar is in Kingsland at 470 New North Road, Auckland (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). It’s extremely close to Eden Park and only a minute’s walk from Kingsland Train Station (www.thekingslander.co.nz ) (on Auckland’s Western Line). Buses (routes 20, 24, etc.) run along New North Road nearby. Rideshares can pull up at the front door. If driving, note that street parking in Kingsland is mostly metered; however, a paid lot (Wilson Parking) at 4 Kingsland Terrace is about two minutes’ walk away and charges roughly NZ$3 per half hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ).
What is the capacity and layout of Nectar?
Nectar holds about 150 people at full capacity (thekingslander.squarespace.com ). It’s arranged as a mostly standing room club space with a central dance floor. The venue is divided into three areas: an indoor bar/dance area, a raised lounge level, and a covered outdoor courtyard (www.thekingslander.co.nz ). There are a few high stools and couches in the lounge, but most concert-goers stand by the stage. For a stage show, the best viewing is either right in front of the stage or on the raised lounge area, which offers a slightly elevated perspective.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes at Nectar?
Yes – Nectar events are generally 18+ only, so you’ll need valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) to enter (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Kingslander does not allow minors on the upper level during these late-night events. Dress code is casual (think smart casual nightwear); there’s no formal dress code, but obviously avoid beachwear or anything overly revealing if you want to feel comfortable. Note that illegal drugs and outside alcohol are strictly prohibited, and standard bar etiquette (no aggressive behavior, etc.) applies.
Is food and drink served inside Nectar?
Yes. The Kingslander’s kitchen provides pub-style food to Nectar upstairs. Expect a menu of burgers, schnitzels, ribs, fried chicken and share plates (concreteplayground.com ) (www.ubereats.com ). There’s also a full bar serving local craft beers, wines and cocktails. (A reviewer noted the portions are quite large, e.g. a “sizeable” burger and chips (concreteplayground.com ).) Keep in mind that Nectar does NOT allow outside food or drinks – you must purchase all drinks and meals from their bar and kitchen.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The main floor of The Kingslander is wheelchair accessible (concreteplayground.com ), but Neptune’s event area is upstairs. This means guests with mobility needs may find the upstairs rooms hard to reach (they’re accessed by stairs or a small lift). If you require step-free access during a Nectar event, it’s best to call the venue in advance. Note that accessible toilets are available on the main floor.
How late do shows at Nectar run?
Most Nectar events start in the evening (doors often open around 8pm) and run late. For example, one June 2022 party at Nectar was scheduled 8:00pm–3:00am (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, expect event music and dancing to continue until the venue closes (usually 2–3am in Auckland). Weekday shows might wrap up earlier, but weekend gigs are typically very late-night affairs.
Is Nectar the same as The Kingslander pub?
Nectar is actually the upstairs bar/event space of The Kingslander pub. They share the same building and management. On a busy night, the Kingslander’s large downstairs sports bar crowd may spill over upstairs, and vice versa. The venue’s hire page even refers to “Nectar Bar – Main Bar Kingsland” to indicate it’s the same complex (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). So, you enter through the Kingslander and head upstairs to find Nectar’s dance floor and lounge.
Is smoking allowed inside or outside the venue?
Smoking is not allowed inside the venue (by New Zealand law). There is usually a designated smoking area outside on the upper deck or street front where patrons can step out for a cigarette. Just be aware that this area may be busy and cold, especially in winter, so dress warmly if you plan to step outside for smoke breaks.
When was Nectar (the upstairs bar) first opened?
Nectar as a brand was added significantly later, but The Kingslander building itself dates to the mid-1800s. A local Auckland guide notes that The Kingslander pub (which now includes Nectar upstairs) opened in 2005, and it was originally a grain store from the 19th century (www.myguideauckland.com ). So Nectar’s home is a very old heritage building, even though Nectar itself is a more recent concept.
