About Pointers
Pointers is a small inner-city bar & grill and live music club located at 1 Lower Hobson Street in Auckland’s CBD. Housed on the ground (street) level of a former council-owned car park, Pointers carries on the industrial aesthetic of its predecessor, the Underpass bar. In fact, when Pointers opened (around 2018), local patrons immediately noted that “it’s the former Underpass bar… and now it’s even better” . The stripped-back fit-out features raw concrete, exposed beams and steel accents, reflecting the site’s history as a mechanics workshop and city car park . For example, the space incorporates four massive concrete culverts as private booths, topped with oak surfaces for tables and bar seating . An outdoor deck with steel tables and macrocarpa bench blocks under a concrete canopy adds to the urban vibe . The overall capacity is modest – roughly 200 people (Soundvibemag classifies it as "XXS – 0-200" capacity) – making for an intimate setting rather than a huge arena. Guests describe the atmosphere as “good, honest, fun” and “relaxed” – even saying it feels “almost like having friends over to your place” . Regulars praise the non-pretentious, friendly crowd that Pointers draws, noting it’s filled with “non-pretentious people” who aren’t chasing the typical nightclub scene . In sum, Pointers stands out as an unassuming, industrial-chic venue in central Auckland, known for its big dance floor, strong sound system, and a “grungy but neon-lit” party atmosphere (complete with LED screens and colorful lighting) . Its casual bar menu (grilled steaks, burgers, sliders, etc.) and well-stocked tap list and bar reinforce the “bar & grill” name during early evenings, though food service typically ends by late night.
Events and Programming
Pointers is primarily known as a live music and DJ venue rather than a sit-down restaurant. On most nights (especially weekends) it transforms into a nightclub. The programming is centered on electronic and world music events. Drum & Bass (DNB) runs are a signature here – every few weeks Pointers “Presents” DNB nights featuring local and visiting DJs. In fact, international acts have appeared too; for example, UK jungle legend DJ Hybrid made his Pointers debut on October 25th (Headlined by promoter Pointers Presents) bringing heavyweight DNB international talent to the city. The club’s “music repertoire” is deliberately experimental and energetic . Alongside DNB parties, Pointers hosts Latin dance nights, often promoted as “La Latina” by The Latin Club. These monthly Latin-themed parties fill the room with salsa, bachata, merengue and reggaeton and are among Auckland’s most popular Latin dance events. Indeed, one event listing even advertised “La Latina returns to its original home!” with advance tickets just NZ$10 , indicating strong demand. When these parties (often on weekends) are in full swing, the floor is packed and the mood is festive.
Live DJs & Club Shows: Almost every weekend Pointers runs a late-night club show (doors usually opening around 10-11pm). These are typically DJs playing electronic music across genres like drum&bass, jungle, house or disco. Local promoters (Pointers Presents, Tevita Productions, etc.) book both Auckland-based and regional talent. Entry prices for these shows generally range from about NZ$10–$20 in advance (depending on the act), with slightly higher door (cover) charges if not sold out. As an example, a January 2022 “La Latina” night listed tickets at NZ$10 early-bird . Fans of serious dance music will find Pointers’ sound system (originally a custom Martin Audio rig) delivers the bass and volume needed for dancing all night .Recurring Nights: Pointers has built some recurring staples. The aforementioned La Latina Latin-dance nights (often monthly) bring a mix of Latin hits; other weekly highlights have included quiz nights and student socials on weeknights. For instance, several reviews mention the Monday quiz night as a lively special event (with pizza and trivia specials) that attracts early-evening crowds. Patrons also report burger-and-beer nights and happy hour deals. Although food service does end as the club late-shift begins, many visitors will eat early and then dance once the DJ nights start.Past Notables & Events: Over the past few years Pointers has had a diverse lineup. Crowd-favorite DNB events featured international and local DJs (URBANDAWN on Hospital Records in 2022, DJ Hybrid UK in 2019, etc.). Hip-hop, funk and disco tribute nights have popped up too (sometimes smaller details from promoters). In summer 2024–25, promoters relaunched big Latin parties (e.g. La Latina XL series) as Covid restrictions eased and club attendance surged. All told, expect at least 2–3 big shows per month (especially Thurs–Sat) plus occasional midweek music nights; check local listings or the venue’s social media for up-to-date event schedules.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Pointers events are generally available through official promoter or venue channels. For most big nights, online presales go live weeks in advance via the event organizers. It’s wise to book early: advance tickets often start around NZ$10–$15, whereas door prices (if any tickets remain) can be NZ$5–$10 higher on the night. As an example, one Latin-themed event was advertised with tickets at $10 each . Some popular shows also offer VIP or “bottle service” tables, though these are limited and usually handled by the event promoters directly. When buying, look for announcements on Facebook or Instagram pages for “Pointers” or affiliated promoters; avoid unofficial resale markup.
Buying strategies: For big headliners or themed parties, check for earlybird presales and sign up to the venue’s mailing list or social media to get notified. If a show isn’t sold out, tickets can usually be purchased at the door (card and cash accepted). VIP tickets or group bookings may be available through the box office – Pointers does have a small front counter, but many patrons simply queue outside until doors open. Remember that most club nights are 18+ (check each event – some dance nights are age-restricted). On the day of the event, arrive well before the advertised start time (shows often begin 10–11pm) to avoid long queues. Door staff typically check IDs, especially on weekend nights, so bring photo ID if you plan to drink (even if the flyer says “all ages,” alcohol service stops at 18+).
Seating and Layout
Pointers is primarily an open-plan club space. There are no assigned seats – most of the crowd stands or dances on the main floor. The central dance area is flanked by the DJ booth and bar. When the venue was designed (as Underpass), it included two large concrete culvert booths on one side; these now serve as semi-private seating corners for VIP or for groups to hang out between dances . Additional bar-height tables and stools line one wall. An open doorway leads to a small covered sidewalk deck (with a railing) facing Lower Hobson Street – this outdoor spot is popular for smokers or anyone who wants some air during a loud set.
Stage and Dance Floor: The DJ setup is at the end of the room opposite the deck. The best place to view DJs is on the dance floor close to the stage; the sound and lighting are optimized for that area. The floor is flat and spacious (one reviewer called it “one of my favorite venues” for its size and flow). Note that the club gets loud, so earplugs can help if you plan to stay late.Bar Area: The long bar runs along one side wall. Here you can sit or stand on stools while ordering drinks. Because the bar area is adjacent to speakers, you’ll still get a good audio experience while chatting. Service from the bartenders is typically fast, even on busy nights (many reviewers praise the quick, friendly bar staff).Other Tips: There are no elevated balconies, so if you want a break from the crowd you can back near the bar or step outside onto the deck. Keep your belongings close and avoid the walls where drink splashes can occur. Because cameras and phones are pervasive, photography isn’t strictly banned, but professional photo or video gear will be asked to stay out (smartphone snaps by patrons are common). If you prefer a quieter spot, the very back corner by the door sees far fewer people (and slightly less bass), but note that DJs often face the crowd, so this spot has a view obstructed by others.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Pointers sits on Lower Hobson Street near the waterfront. It’s a 2-block walk west of Britomart Train Station (about 600–700m). The nearest buses run along nearby streets: routes on Fanshawe Street, Halsey Street or Quay Street all drop passengers close by. In particular, the “CityLink” bus loop stops at Halsey St/Lower Hobson. If coming from the north (Auckland Harbour Bridge area), buses 020/026 drop at Wynyard Quarter (about a 5-min walk away). Taxis or ride-shares can pull up on Lower Hobson itself or the adjacent intersection of Lower Hobson and Customs Street (just ask to be dropped “at Lower Hobson by the Viaduct” – the venue is visible from the street). Routine local landmarks: it’s just south of Queens Wharf and north of the City Library on Hobson.
Parking: There is no private lot for Pointers, and on-street parking is very limited. Paid parking is available nearby – for example, the Civic Car Park (Henry St/Quay St near Britomart) charges about $2.50 per hour, capped at $12.50 for a full day (weekdays and weekends) . Other small lots and metered street bays are scattered around the Viaduct/Queen St area, but rates are high. Most locals advise using public transport or rideshare rather than driving. If you must drive, call ahead to find a spot, and anticipate paying ~$15–$20 for a night in any central lot.
Walking: Being in the city centre, many patrons simply walk from hotels or other downtown venues. For example, it’s a 5-10 minute stroll from the waterfront dining precinct (Viaduct Harbour) or the Britomart shopping district.Drop-off/Taxi Lanes: Rideshares or taxis can pull up on Lower Hobson Street outside the venue (just past the corner of Customs Street). Late at night when traffic is light, drivers often idle briefly on Hobson or nearby Halsey Street for drop-offs.Bike/Scooter: There is limited bike parking infrastructure on Lower Hobson itself, but neighboring streets and building fronts often have bike racks. Scooters can be parked on the sidewalk out of the way of walking paths. Public transport remains easier for hands-free arrival.
Inside the Venue
Once inside, expect a casual, down-to-earth club atmosphere. There is usually a cover charge during major events (especially late night Fri/Sat); sometimes shows are free entry (often on quieter weeknights or with a drink on arrival). The door staff will check ID for age-restricted events and do a quick security pat-down or bag scan for large items (please don’t try to sneak in outside drinks or illegal substances). Pointers has a cloakroom/coat check service available – usually a staffed counter – which is handy on cold nights. Restrooms (toilets) are located toward the rear of the bar; single and group facilities are gendered and maintained, but they can be busy between sets. The staff generally enforce a casual dress code: no sports jerseys or hats (a common club rule), but no need for jackets or heels. Some guests embrace the venue’s industrial vibe by wearing bold clubwear, while others just come in jeans and tees – in short, no formal attire is expected.
Bar & Drinks: The bar offers a full range of beer, wine and spirits. You’ll find local craft beers (Panhead, Liberty, etc., continuing Underpass’s tradition) on tap, plus standard NZ lager. Cocktails and spirits are available, and drink prices are typical for city bars. During happy hour (if any night), drink specials or bundle deals might be posted. Nighttime events often allow only drinks service (as one reviewer noted, by late night “the grill” is closed and only alcohol is available). Expect friendly bartenders and quick service – even in a packed crowd, drinks are poured efficiently.Food: Although “Grill” is in the name, food is mainly an early-evening feature. The kitchen serves pub-style mains and snacks until around 8pm (past that, events take over and the grill closes). Typical menu items include burgers, fish & chips, Asian-fusion skewers and small plates – many under NZ$15. One reviewer specifically praised the $15 burger-and-beer deal as “extremely satisfying.” Vegetarian options (salads, veggie burgers) are available, but full vegan choices may be very limited unless requested specially. If you want a meal, it’s best to dine by 7–8pm before the DJs turn the lights down. After that, only nuts or bar snacks are offered (no outside food allowed).Other Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is not advertised, so plan to rely on mobile data (coverage is good). The atmosphere is deliberately underground: each room is lit by neon and LEDs, and the smoky haze of fog machines is common during DJ sets. The staff usually switch to full club lighting and music by 10pm. You’ll find the sound and lights to be professional-grade – according to one city magazine review, the “grunginess is cooled off by neon-lit dance floors, colorful lights, and LED screens” . On dance nights, expect dance floor strobes, moving head lights, and heavy bass that can make the floor vibrate (some guests advise moving away if you have back issues). The venue is noisy – it’s often labeled “one of the best sound systems in Auckland” by DNB fans – so casual conversation may require shouting if a set is playing.
Nearby Amenities
Surrounding Pointers is the heart of Auckland’s waterfront nightlife, so there’s no shortage of options for dining and lodging nearby:
Restaurants & Cafes: Pre-show, you can dine at dozens of eateries within a few blocks. On Customs Street just two blocks east is the popular “Hello Beasty” (Asian-fusion small plates) and “Culprit” (high-end burgers). Across Quay Street on Queen Lane is the bustling restaurant precinct with places like Giraffe (contemporary New Zealand cooking) and Hello Buddha (fusion bistro). For a quick bite, the Britomart food court is 5 minutes’ walk north, and plenty of food trucks often park around Halsey Street. If your group craves pub food (like Pointers itself), a few doors down on Lower Hobson is a casual sports bar with pizza and wings. Bars & Pre-Drinks: The surrounding area is thick with bars. For example, Soul Bar (a DJ lounge) is directly next door, and Cantina or Beer Market are just footsteps away on Halsey Street. On Quay West there’s a rooftop bar (Sky City Casino pubs) and rooftop lounges overlooking the harbour. Many guests do “pre-games” at these neighboring pubs and then walk over to Pointers for the club portion of the night. Hotels: If you need a hotel, you’re spoilt for choice. The M Social and Hotel Britomart are a short stroll away, as are serviced apartments and boutique hotels on Quay Street (DeBrett, Mercure). For budget stays, backpacker hostels and chain hotels sit around Wellesley Street and Queen Street, all within a 10–15 minute walk. Public transport (buses and trains) connects the CBD to other Auckland suburbs, making it easy to return to outlying accommodations after Pointers closes at 4am. Timing Suggestions: Weekends see heavy traffic around closing time (3–4am), so ride-sharing apps may surge or have waits then. If staying late, note that the last trains from Britomart run around midnight (Sat night) or 1am (Fri/Sat), so plan taxis accordingly for those last-chance rides home. Many locals simply walk to nearby hotels on closing night or finish at the SkyCity Casino (on Quay) for breakfast.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pointers stands out for its combination of gritty warehouse-style design and a welcoming, party-centric vibe. Architecturally, it's unique in Auckland: the concrete booths and stripped-back decor were uncommon when it opened, lending it a bit of a “Berlin underground” feel . This industrial look (very different from flashy glass nightclubs) creates a memorable atmosphere – think steel, wood and exposed brick with dynamic lighting. Over the years, it has earned a reputation as the place for drum&bass, jungle and Latin beats in town. Fans of these genres love it because it treats them with sonic respect – one review enthused that Pointers has “one of the best sound systems in Auckland,” making it a hot spot for audiophiles.
Culturally, Pointers has become a melting pot on the waterfront. It draws a diverse crowd – from students and office workers winding down after work, to club-goers and foreign travelers looking for underground music. It also keeps the city’s Latin dance community alive; on La Latina nights, you’ll hear Spanish and Portuguese interspersed with salsa and merengue, a rarity among Auckland venues. For international visitors, it offers a slice of Kiwi nightlife away from the typical tourist bars. As one travel blog put it, Pointers attracts “locals and international faces” alike to its dance floor . In short, it’s special because it’s both unpretentious and energetic – a place where artists and audiences feel at home. DJs appreciate the high-quality sound and dedicated dance floor, while the crowd appreciates the friendly, down-to-earth experience. Longtime patrons note that even after trying dozens of clubs, they keep returning here for “the best nights out.” Its mix of live entertainment, industrial-chic style, and community-driven events cements Pointers as a beloved gem in Auckland’s nightlife scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Pointers is wheelchair-accessible. The entrance is street-level with no steps, and staff are used to accommodating guests with mobility needs. One review specifically noted that the entrance is wheelchair-friendly . Inside, the floors are flat (no raised platforms except the bar stage), so maneuvering with a wheelchair or stroller is generally straightforward. Accessible restrooms are available as well.
What to Bring (and Not to Bring): Bring valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) if you plan to drink; staff will check it at the door for 18+ events. Dress in comfortable club clothes – keep it casual but tidy (T-shirts, jeans, casual dresses) and wear shoes as required by law (flip-flops or sneakers are fine; no swimwear). Do not bring outside food or non-prescription drugs. A small bag or sling is okay; large backpacks or luggage may be refused. Photography with your phone or camera is generally allowed for personal use, but professional cameras (and any super-bright flashes) may be clipped.
During the Event: Arrive early, especially on busy nights. Doors often open around 10–11pm but big acts don’t start until later; getting there at opener or 11pm can avoid entry lines. Coat check is staffed, so offload jackets and bags there if it’s chilly. Keep a light jacket/sweater if you’ll use the outdoor deck – it can be windy by the water. If you plan to dance near the front, earplugs are recommended (the bass is loud and sustained). When ordering drinks, have your card or cash ready – the bartenders are efficient. If you step outside onto Lower Hobson Street (the sidewalk deck) for air, watch oncoming traffic when crossing (it’s a quiet street late at night but cars do pass occasionally).
Avoiding Problems: Pointers is generally safe and well-staffed. However, it’s a late-night club environment so stay aware of your belongings (keep wallets/phones in front pockets). The crowd is usually friendly, but as at any bar, be polite to door staff and other patrons – aggression or harassment will be stopped by security. If you have dietary restrictions, do mention them before ordering (the kitchen in early evening should accommodate vegans or gluten-free if alerted). Lastly, check the event details ahead of time: on some theme nights there may be costume suggestions or themes (e.g. disco night might encourage 70s outfits), but these are optional.
Age and Entry: The venue operates as 18+ after dark. All major weekend events require you to be at least 18 (with ID). Family or teen-friendly shows are rare; if an event is open to under-18s it will be clearly advertised (often only on very early weeknights). No one gets in without passing the age check.
Paying: The bar accepts cash and all major credit/debit cards (NFC/contactless payments are widely accepted – many patrons pay with their phones). There is an ATM inside, but busy nights might have a line, so it’s wise to carry some cash for cover charges or tips. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving small tips (especially for coat-check or bathroom attendants, if any) is appreciated.
Special Precautions: If you smoke, use only the outside deck (Lower Hobson side); New Zealand law bans indoor smoking. Some guests note it can get very steamy if the dance floor is packed – fans will run but you may get warm. Drink responsibly – the staff do cut off service to obviously intoxicated individuals. Keep an eye on the time on Sunday mornings, as city centre curfews/police quietly clear the streets after about 4–5am (the venue officially closes at 4am on weekends, so last call is around 3:30am). Otherwise, enjoy the party – many visitors leave Pointers smiling and ready to come back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of music and events can I expect at Pointers?
Pointers features a mix of electronic and world music events. Expect Drum & Bass and jungle DJ nights (often under the “Pointers Presents” banner), as well as Latin dance parties (“La Latina” nights with salsa, bachata, merengue, etc.). Some Wednesdays or Mondays have live band or quiz nights. The most common events are late-night club nights with DJs playing properly loud music (often tech-house, DNB or throwback dance). Check the venue’s or promoters’ social pages for the current schedule and lineup.
How do I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets are usually sold online through the event promoter’s ticketing page, or sometimes via the venue’s social media (the club itself doesn’t sell tickets at a box office ahead of time). Prices vary by event: many standard DJ nights have advance tickets around NZ$10–$15, while bigger headliners or special-theme parties may be NZ$20 or more. As an illustration, a recent Latin-themed club night offered tickets on presale for NZ$10 . Door cover on the night (if offered) is often higher – typically NZ$5–$10 more. Always buy early for the best price, and check the event page for any VIP or group packages. If tickets are not sold out, you can usually pay at the door by card or cash.
What is the venue’s capacity and layout?
Pointers is a small-to-medium sized venue (around 200 people capacity) . It’s mostly open-plan. In the center is a large dance floor facing the DJ booth. The long bar runs along one wall with standing and high-stool seating. In one corner there are semi-private concrete booth tables (from the Underpass design) for small groups. There is also a covered deck opening onto Lower Hobson Street, which serves as an outdoor smoking/dance area. There are no fixed theater-style seats – almost everyone stands or dances, so it’s general admission. For the best view, stand on the main floor near the stage; for a more relaxed spot, head near the bar or outside deck.
How late is Pointers open, and when should I arrive?
On big nights (usually Thursday–Saturday), doors open around 10–11pm and the party runs until 3–4am. The venue technically closes at 4am, which is when last calls are made. On Sunday, Monday or Tuesday, closing is earlier. If you want to avoid lines for a popular event, arrive early (for example, right at opening time). For a major DJ or theme night, people often queue up 30–60 minutes before start. If you arrive after midnight on a sold-out show, you risk missing it altogether. In short: earlier arrival gets you in hassle-free and gets you a good spot on the floor before it gets packed.
What are the cover charges and drink prices like at Pointers?
Cover (entry) fees depend on the event. For most club DJ nights it’s in the NZ$10–$20 range (higher for big-name acts). Sometimes there is no cover on quieter weeknights. Drinks are priced like an average city bar: beer is around NZ$8–$10 a pint, wine NZ$7–$12 a glass, and cocktails/spirits NZ$10–$18 each. Look out for happy hour or special deals earlier in the night (the venue and promoters often post about drink specials on social media). Because Pointers was originally Underpass, they sometimes run deals like beer-and-burger combos (~$15) on entry. All major credit/debit cards are accepted at the bar (contactless/NFC payments work too).
Is there parking available and how else can I get there?
Parking is limited. The venue itself has no private lot. Street parking in downtown Auckland is metered and scarce. The nearest public car park is the Civic Car Park (corner of Hobson and Customs) – it charges about $2.50/hour with a flat $12.50 cap . Other nearby lots include Wilson’s Wynyard Quarter parking or on-street spots along Quay/Halsey/Queen. Many visitors avoid driving: instead take bus or train. To use public transport, get a bus to the Viaduct or Queen Street (e.g. CityLink) or walk from Britomart Station (5–10 min). Rideshare or taxi drivers can drop off on Lower Hobson Street directly in front of Pointers. Late-night buses and trains wind down around 1am, so have a taxi planned after 1am.
What is the dress code at Pointers?
The vibe is casual. There’s no formal dress code – you’ll see everything from jeans and tees to night-out outfits. Avoid athletic jerseys or hats if you can, since those are typically discouraged at clubs. Shoes must be worn. Generally, people dress smart-casual or trendy clubwear for weekend nights. (If park or weather calls for it, you can check a jacket at coatcheck but leave bulky items at home.)
Are children or teens allowed at Pointers?
Most events at Pointers are 18+ after dark. The venue is primarily a nightclub, so unaccompanied minors are not allowed during late-night shows. Occasionally there may be earlier-evening gigs or private events open to all ages, which would be explicitly advertised. Always check the specific event policy. In practice, assume Pointers is 18+ unless stated otherwise on the flyer or website.
Does Pointers have a coat check or lockers?
Yes, there is a staffed coat check near the entrance. You can check coats, jackets and small bags there (usually for a modest fee or donation). There are no permanent lockers for large items. It’s a good idea to use coat check rather than carry bulky outerwear through the venue, especially when it gets crowded.
What accessibility features does Pointers have?
Pointers is wheelchair-accessible. The entrance is level with the street (no steps). The interior has wide pathways and flat floors, making it navigable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. One review specifically confirmed that “entrance is wheelchair accessible” . The venue’s bars and tables are spaced to allow wheelchair access, and at least one restroom is accessible. Staff are generally helpful if you need assistance. If you have any special needs or questions, you can call the venue ahead of time (the number is published on their socials).
Can I bring outside food or drink into Pointers?
No – like most bars, Pointers does not allow outside alcohol or food. Only items purchased inside the venue (or water you personally bring) are permitted. If you have dietary needs, eat before you arrive; once the show is on, the on-site kitchen is closed and only bar snacks or nuts are served. Free water is usually available at the bar if you need it after dancing in the heat.
What security measures and IDs are required at the door?
Security is professional but low-key. Guards or bouncers will greet you and glance in any bags or pockets for drugs or weapons (these are strictly prohibited). For any 18+ event, expect to show government-issued photo ID (license or passport) at the door. Even if an event is “all ages,” alcohol service will still be 18+ ID-checked by the bar. Dress cleanly and respectfully; intoxicated or abusive patrons will be refused entry or asked to leave. The venue enforces a strict “no re-entry” policy on nights with a cover charge, so once you leave you’ll need to buy a new ticket to come back in.
Does Pointers offer any food menus late at night?
The full kitchen menu is only available in the early evening (usually until around 8–9pm). After that, the grill closes and it becomes drinks-only inside. Many guests note that by late night, despite the “Bar & Grill” name, only drinks are served. If you plan to eat, arrive in the first part of the evening. There are some quick bar snacks (like nuts or chips) later on, but no hot meals once the DJs start.
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