Events at Shed 10, Auckland

About Shed 10

Shed 10 is a landmark waterfront event venue on Auckland’s Queens Wharf. Built in 1910, it is the last original wharf shed in the city and is heritage-listed (Category 1) (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). Once a bustling cargo warehouse, its renovation in the early 2010s transformed it into a modern events space and cruise terminal while preserving its historic character (www.aucklandlive.co.nz) (www.audo.co.nz). Today you’ll find its rugged concrete floor, exposed yellow-striped steel columns and high trussed ceiling juxtaposed with warm matai wood flooring and gabled skylights upstairs (www.aucklandlive.co.nz) (architecturenow.co.nz). Local artist Will Ngakuru even installed a carved waka (‘Te Haumi’) in one of the bay windows, connecting the building to Māori heritage (architecturenow.co.nz). In short, Shed 10 marries raw industrial elegance with contemporary amenities. Its 2,200+ m² floors (each level) and nearly 5 m ground-floor clearance give it a unique scale. It also has a notable sustainability feature – a 60 kW rooftop solar array (240 panels) reportedly the largest roof-mounted PV system in New Zealand (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). This combination of history, architecture and modern upgrades makes Shed 10 special on Auckland’s waterfront, reflecting the city’s seafaring past and serving as a cultural hub (architecturenow.co.nz) (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).

Events and Programming

Shed 10 hosts a hugely diverse program. It’s a popular spot for corporate galas, conferences and trade shows thanks to its open-plan halls, but it’s equally known for lively public events. Dance music nights and club-style concerts are routine (international DJs like Andy C have headlined here) (www.audo.co.nz) (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). Rock, hip-hop and comedy tours also play Shed 10 – for example, US rapper J.I.D sold out the venue in 2023 (www.setlist.fm). Aside from concerts, the shed is a venue for food and wine festivals, artisan markets and fashion shows (www.audo.co.nz). One example is the annual “Art of Wine” festival which brings together NZ wineries under the old wooden roof. Events run year-round but tend to cluster around peak seasons (in summer for festivals and in winter for indoor club nights). Every edition is different: you might see a huge standing-“General Admission” crowd at a DJ night, a seated theatre arrangement for a live band, or banquet tables at a gala dinner.

Ticket pricing varies widely with the act. Smaller local events can start as low as $20–40 NZD, while major international artists or festivals often charge $60–150 or more for front-tier tickets. For instance, a recent late-night dance event listed early-bird tickets around $62 and late-release tickets around $103 (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Student, concession or group rates sometimes apply. Keep in mind that popular shows sell out fast. Many promoters let fans sign up for email alerts or presales; it’s wise to join any fan club or newsletter to get advance access. Although prices depend on who’s playing, you can generally expect a ticket range somewhere in that tens-to-hundreds of dollar range, plus a small fee. Because the venue is flexible, ticket pages usually explain the setup (standing or seated) and any special conditions.

Tickets and Booking

There is no walk-in box office at Shed 10, so all tickets are sold online through official channels. Look for the event on the venue’s or promoter’s website (e.g. Auckland Live’s site, Eventfinda, etc.). When a show is announced, tickets typically go on sale via those official outlets. Often there are staged releases (early bird, then standard, etc.). For hot events, aim to buy as soon as possible. Some patrons use services like mailing lists or app alerts to snag pre-sales. Always purchase tickets well in advance of show day, especially for big acts – door sales are rare at Shed 10 shows. Once purchased, you’ll usually get an e-ticket to show on your phone or a printable pass. Finally, double-check the ticket or event notice for showtime and any venue-specific instructions (e.g. arrival time, door policy). If a concert or event tracks are rescheduled or cancelled, the organizer’s update will be your guide.

Seating and Layout

Shed 10’s interior is a two-level, open-plan warehouse. The main hall (ground floor) is a flat, column-supported space. There are no fixed seats – chairs and stages are brought in as needed. In a seated-theatre layout it can accommodate about 1,575 people, while a standing-cocktail layout allows up to 2,000 on the ground floor (www.aucklandconventions.co.nz). The mezzanine (first floor) rings around the hall’s edges and is reachable by the staircases at either end. It’s a warmer space with timber flooring and roughly 3.75 m ceilings, holding around 1,000 people in theatre or banquet style (www.aucklandconventions.co.nz). Both levels benefit from large sliding bay windows: one end has a view of Queen’s Wharf and the city skyline, the other looks out over the Waitematā Harbour (www.aucklandconventions.co.nz). For concerts or shows, the stage is usually at one end of the ground floor, and people either stand or sit facing it. Wherever you are, be aware that the original yellow-painted steel columns remain throughout both floors (architecturenow.co.nz), so try not to put yourself directly behind one or your view to the stage could be blocked. Most people find the best vantage is either close to center-front on the main floor, or up on the first level near the railing by the windows. The acoustics are that of a big old hall (slightly echoey), so sound crews usually lean speakers toward the audience to keep the mix clear. Since the space is wide and high, you shouldn’t run into major sightline issues except as mentioned – just pick a spot where you can see the stage over any pillars or people ahead of you. In general, all areas offer a memorable perspective: the raw steel-and-wood setting, the distant harbor lights, the wooden floor underfoot – it’s all part of the shed’s charm.

Getting There and Parking

Shed 10 is located at 89 Quay Street (Queen’s Wharf) in downtown Auckland. It sits at the far eastern end of Quay St, right next to the main Ferry Terminal and opposite the Britomart Transport Centre (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). In fact, Britomart (Auckland’s train and bus hub) is across the road, making public transit easy. Multiple bus lines (such as the City Link and Outer Link loops) stop along Quay Street, and trains from the suburbs or airport arrive at Britomart just a block away. If you’re coming by ferry (for example from Devonport or Waiheke), the ferry pier is literally a minute’s walk from Shed 10. In short, you can reach the venue by nearly any public transport – it’s at the city’s transport nexus (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).

If driving, note there is no on-site parking at Shed 10 (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). The nearest public parking buildings are the Britomart (Wilson) Car Park and the Civic/Downtown Car Park, both a short walk away. Expect to pay city rates from about $10–$20 for a few hours – booking a downtown parking app or arriving early is wise, as street parking fills up in peak times. For drop-offs or taxis, use the Queens Wharf roundabout just west of the shed. There’s a designated drop-off point at the roundabout to the left of Shed 10 (www.aucklandlive.co.nz), which rideshare drivers and taxis commonly use as well. (Pick-ups after the show can happen at the same spot or along Quay St.) In summary: public transit is the easiest way in, and if you drive or ride in, allow extra time to park near Britomart or Downtown NZ’s carparks (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).

Inside the Venue

Once inside, expect a very spacious, industrial loft-like atmosphere. Entry is typically through a main hall door facing Queen Street; staff will scan your ticket on a phone or paper and may perform a basic bag check. The floors are concrete and the ceiling high, so the place can feel cool or echoey when empty. During events, it transforms – with music, lighting, and the bustle of the crowd, it feels more like a large nightclub or festival stage foyer. Food and drink are not stored on shelves, but event organizers normally set up one or more bars where you can buy beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks. You cannot bring your own alcohol inside. Some shows also have (for example) coffee stands or snack vendors; otherwise, the nearest food is outside (see Nearby Amenities below). Restrooms are located on every level (look for signage); staff will direct you if needed. There is often a coat-check operated by the event staff for a fee, but it’s not guaranteed unless an event advertises it. There may also be a merchandise booth if a band or company sells T-shirts/programmes – typically set up near the entrance hall or along the balcony rail. In terms of comfort, the building is well-ventilated but without heavy climate control, so dress in layers suitable for a big indoor crowd. Importantly, smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited inside the venue (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). If you need assistance (wheelchair access, first aid, directions, etc.), just look for the uniformed staff or ushers – their training is to help guests and you’re encouraged to ask (www.aucklandlive.co.nz). Overall, you’ll find Shed 10 to be secure but relaxed: people move about freely, and staff or security guide crowd flow. During big shows you might stand or mill near the stage, while in quieter events you could be seated or standing at tables upstairs. All standard event amenities are there – multiple exits, emergency lighting, and in most cases free Wi-Fi or at least cellphone service works inside the shed.

Nearby Amenities

Before or after a show at Shed 10, Queens Wharf has several convenient spots nearby:

• Kapai – A stylish waterfront café/restaurant serving Kiwi cuisine (open arvo and evening) (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).
• St Pierre’s Sushi – A casual sushi chain stall facing the water (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).
• Cinta Malaysian – A colorful eatery offering Malaysian dishes, just a block away (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).
• The White Lady Famous Burgers – An iconic late-night burger van parked on the wharf (cash only) (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).
• Wolf Coffee – A popular local coffee shack (open from morning) for quick bites or caffeine (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).
• Food trucks and street stalls in the Queens Wharf Village – snack stands and casual vendors are often gathered near the Shed’s plaza.

For drinks and nightlife, the Britomart precinct (10 min walk up Queen Street) has a cluster of bars, pubs and restaurants. Nearby hotels include downtown and waterfront names like Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, the Cordis on K’Road, and other CBD hotels (all within a 5–15 minute walk of the shed). As for transportation after the show: late-night buses (the CityLink or downtown loop services) run past Britomart and on Quay Street until after midnight. Taxis and rideshare vehicles (Uber, etc.) are readily available on Quay Street and Fanshawe Street late into the night, and many visitors simply call a ride to get home. In short, you’ll never be far from transit, a meal or a hotel when attending an event at Shed 10 – the central location means almost everything you need is within a short stroll.

What Makes This Venue Special

Shed 10’s appeal comes from both its setting and its story. Architecturally, it’s one of only two major indoor event spaces on Queens Wharf (the other is The Cloud) and the only original remnant of Auckland’s early-20th-century port. Walking through it is like stepping into history – you can still see the painted names of old shipping firms on the rugged matai floor, and the workmanship of a century ago (architecturenow.co.nz). Over the decades it witnessed many key moments: troops departing for World War I, royal visits in naval parades and even the backdrop to the famous 1951 waterfront waterside dispute (architecturenow.co.nz). More recently it was repurposed in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup (“party zone”) and now for cruise ship traffic. Economically, Shed 10 has been a driver of tourism; for example, around 2012–13 it processed about 100 cruise ship calls a year, contributing roughly NZ$115 million to Auckland’s economy (architecturenow.co.nz). Culturally, its raw-industrial vibe and harbour views make events here different from any other venue in NZ. Artists and audiences love the space – you’re literally seeing a show inside a piece of Auckland heritage. The solar panels on its roof, the waka art, and the exposed-age elements all lend character. In essence, Shed 10 isn’t just another auditorium; it’s a tangible link to the working wharf of old and a beloved gathering place for contemporary Aucklanders. Its combination of history, scale, and waterfront context is unmatched, which is why it often ranks as a top Auckland concert or function venue.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Shed 10 is wheelchair-accessible. Upon booking tickets or before arriving, visitors with mobility needs are advised to contact the venue to arrange any assistance. There is a drop-off at the wharf side (see above) and the staff will guide you once inside. Accessible seating is available in the hall (ground floor) and there are accessible bathrooms. If you or someone in your party requires extra help, simply speak to a staff member at the event; as noted above, staff are trained to assist any customer on-site (www.aucklandlive.co.nz).

What to Bring/Not to Bring: Check the event notice for rules. In general, small personal items are fine, but avoid large bags or bulky gear. Leave outside food and beverages at home (you can buy drinks and snacks inside after entry). Cameras and phones are usually allowed for personal photos, but always check if flash photography or video recording is allowed – some shows restrict it. Dress casually and comfortably: the concrete floor can be cold, so you may want a light jacket, but heavy coats can be left at coat check. Good walking shoes are recommended since the venue is large.

Age Restrictions: Age rules depend on the event. Many dance and late-night shows at Shed 10 are for 18+ audiences (in fact, a recent electronic music event was R18 (www.eventfinda.co.nz)). Family-friendly festivals (e.g. daytime food fairs) allow all ages. Always check the event’s age notation when buying tickets, and bring photo ID if it’s an adult-only event.

Arrival: Gates usually open about 45–60 minutes before showtime. It pays to arrive early to find your way around and avoid queues. If general admission, arriving early also helps you secure a good position. If assigned seating, you have more flexibility. Tip: go see the view from the upstairs bay windows before the show starts; it’s a gorgeous look at the harbour as the sun sets.

Do’s and Don’ts: Don’t forget to bring photo ID if it’s an R18 show (you won’t get in without it). Do check your ticket delivery (email/text) and event updates a day or two in advance. Do listen to staff instructions about entry routes and safety. Don’t smoke or vape inside, and do respect the heritage setting by not touching any exposed ironwork or wires. Finally, do sit or stand where you are allowed – there are no floor seats to move during a show, but feel free to move about in the foyer or upstairs if space permits after the performance starts.