About Stampede Restaurant & Bar
Stampede Restaurant & Bar is a large Western‐saloon‐style bar and grill in Papakura, South Auckland, famous for its Wild West motif (www.ticketfairy.com ). The décor is elaborate—with a long oak and mahogany bar lined with actual horse-saddle stools, antique rifles and cowboy hat accents on the walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). Candle lanterns and neon lights add to the frontier feel, making Stampede stand out as a themed experience. The owners even boast that “folks have been coming from miles around” to sample the “mouth watering menu” on those Western saddle seats (stampede.co.nz ). Locals often call Stampede a Papakura landmark – one site even describes it as “one of Papakura’s most historic landmarks” (www.ticketfairy.com ). In operation since around 2017 (its website notes an August 2017 launch (stampede.co.nz )), Stampede has become Papakura’s premier bar, grill and live-music venue, blending all-age dining with late‐night entertainment.
Inside, Stampede is spacious: it claims a large restaurant section seating roughly 100–150 guests plus an expansive bar and dance area for up to a couple hundred people in total (www.ticketfairy.com ). Guests come first for hearty Western-inspired meals (steaks, ribs, burgers and pub fare) under the glow of lanterns and neon (www.ticketfairy.com ), and stay for the lively, family-friendly nightlife. The staff are known for being friendly and attentive, and management emphasizes a fun but safe “family-friendly environment” (stampede.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). All this character makes Stampede not just a place to eat and drink, but a unique fixture in Auckland’s suburban entertainment scene.
Events and Programming
Stampede packs its calendar with a mix of live music, DJs and theme nights. Weekends often feature a resident DJ spinning late-night hits, while local rock, reggae and pop bands play live on other nights (stampede.co.nz ). One popular regular event is karaoke every Thursday evening (from about 8:30pm) in the outdoor garden bar, accompanied by food and drink specials (www.aucklandmeal.com ). Special weekly promotions keep things lively – for example, a $30 steak special on Thursday nights (www.aucklandmeal.com ), a Wednesday lamb-shank dinner deal for about $23 (www.aucklandmeal.com ), and “happy hour” drink jugs from $28 each between 4pm–7pm Monday through Saturday (www.aucklandmeal.com ).
Stampede also hosts touring acts and one-off concerts. In recent years the venue’s stage has seen famous New Zealand performers like P Money, Smashproof, David Dallas and Aaradhna (stampede.co.nz ), as well as international stars. For example, American rapper Bow Wow headlined Stampede in September 2018 (www.ticketfairy.com ), and Jamaican reggae artist Conkarah (with singer Rosie Delmah) played there in June 2019 (www.ticketfairy.com ). (These examples illustrate the range – from hip-hop to reggae – of acts drawn to Stampede.) Concerts and shows typically require advance tickets, and it’s best to buy early since popular gigs can sell out. In general, tickets for Stampede concerts range from affordable local gig prices (often in the $20–$30 zone) to higher for big-name headliners. Entry at the door is usually possible if not sold out, but for top-billed events brideses while early booking is recommended.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for major Stampede concerts and club nights are usually sold through New Zealand event outlets and the venue’s own announcements. Look for announcements on local ticketing sites or community event pages and the Stampede social media. Big shows often go on sale 4–8 weeks in advance; smaller nights may be posted just a couple of weeks out. Ticket prices vary by event, so check the event listing. Common strategies include signing up for the venue’s updates and buying as soon as tickets appear, especially for popular artists. For some events there may be a limited number of tickets at the door on the night (subject to availability), but it’s safest to plan ahead. Note that Stampede is not a major festival ground, so shows can fill the ~200-person capacity – early purchase is advised for headliners.
Seating and Layout
Stampede’s floorplan is primarily indoors with an open western-saloon theme. The front half is set up as a restaurant dining area (around 100–150 seats) with regular tables and booths (www.ticketfairy.com ). Past the dining section is a large open bar and dance floor. If there’s a live band or DJ, a stage is typically set up near the back or side of the bar area. For shows, guests often mix and match: some diners remain at tables for a meal while others stand or dance nearer the front of the stage. In practice, Stampede events are mostly general admission – there are no fixed “assigned” seats for concerts. For the best view of the music, many patrons head close to the stage, while those looking to socialize or have a meal may sit at tables along the sides. The acoustics are lively rather than reserved, matching the party vibe, so keep that in mind if you prefer quieter spots.
Getting There and Parking
Stampede Restaurant & Bar is located at 238 Great South Road, Papakura, Auckland 2110 (stampede.co.nz ). In practical terms, it sits along Papakura’s main drag (Great South Road) just south of the town centre. For public transport users, Papakura Station (Southern Line) is only a few blocks north and makes the venue walkable from train or bus hub. According to Auckland transit info, buses #33, #373, #376, #378 and #395 all serve stops near the Papakura town centre (moovitapp.com ), so these can get within a short walk of Stampede’s front door. Taxis and Uber easily reach this address as well; look for the Stampede sign on Great South Road as your drop-off point.
Driving? Papakura has abundant parking in the town centre. Several free council-operated car parks and many on-street spaces are scattered around Great South Road (papakura.co.nz ). The ride-share/taxi drop zone is typically right out front on Great South Road (though check traffic rules). Note that the nearby Papakura Station has a small free car park (with a 90-minute limit) if you’re combining train and car. Always allow extra time on busy nights – although parking in Papakura is generally free or low-cost, popular events can make finding a spot a bit challenging. As a tip, arriving a few blocks early and walking the last distance can sometimes save time and stress.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively, colourful atmosphere the moment you step inside. The entrance usually leads past a long Western-themed bar, where bartenders serve up an array of beers (including local craft brews) and New Zealand wines (www.ticketfairy.com ). Stampede is known for its full menu of big-portion pub cuisine. You can order starters like sweet-corn fritters or calamari, and main courses including pastas (some with vegetarian options), ribs, and juicy steaks with fries (stampede.co.nz ). If the kitchen is open, meals are served all night on weekends (earlier on weekdays), so you can plan dinner or late-night munchies along with your drinks.
On entry, staff will check IDs (NZ liquor law) and you may pass a small cloakroom area if needed (there’s no formal coat-check, but the team can assist with belongings). Most nights are casual, so customers are dressed street-smart or in Cowboy-themed gear (boots and hats are welcome for fun, but not required). Smoking is not allowed inside (by law) – during breaks you can step outside to designated areas. The venue is wheelchair-friendly (marked as “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.com.au )) with level access and regular restrooms. The atmosphere is upbeat and friendly (reviews frequently praise the staff’s hospitality). Music events bring a DJ or live band, and there’s usually a heat and bass from the sound system – some guests bring earplugs if they want. Free Wi-Fi is not advertised, so plan on mobile coverage or offline. In summary: you’ll find Stampede rowdy and fun when packed, but still with enough space to move around. Merely grabbing a drink at the bar is completely fine, and if the big screen TVs show sports on other nights, it doubles as a casual sports bar too.
Nearby Amenities
Stampede sits in Papakura’s commercial centre, so plenty of restaurants, shops and hotel options are a short walk away. For pre-show dining, Great South Road and Station Road host fast-food outlets like KFC, McDonald’s and Domino’s, as well as local spots (Thai, Indian, fish & chips and cafes) for a quick bite. If you want a sit-down meal, nearby restaurants include a family-friendly pizzeria or an Indian grill. Coffee shops and convenience stores are also abundant in the area. After Hours, Papakura’s main streets have a few quieter pubs and late-night takeaways that stay open late (useful if you get hungry on your way out). If you’re coming from out of town, lodging options close by include places like the Papakura Motor Lodge, Homestead Motor Lodge and Gateway Motor Inn on or near Great South Road. (In particular, the Homestead is just a block away at 64 Great South Road.) For late-night transport home, note that Papakura Station’s last trains run around 11pm to midnight on weekends, and taxi/Uber service is readily available from the city centre zone. In short, it’s easy to pair your Stampede visit with a meal out or stay-over in Papakura thanks to the convenience of local shops, eateries and motels.
What Makes This Venue Special
Stampede’s uniqueness comes down to vibe and community impact. Architecturally it isn’t a fancy heritage building, but its interior is unlike any other bar in Auckland. It feels like stepping into a movie set of an Old West saloon – that novelty alone makes it memorable. The wild theme is backed up by a commitment to entertainment. No other Papakura venue routinely draws international and top−tier New Zealand acts: as owner marketing highlights, Stampede has hosted US stars (Bow Wow, Pia Mia, Chingy) and big Kiwi names (Fireball, Smashproof, Aaradhna) (stampede.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). At the same time, the venue deliberately stays family-open until evening, allowing kids to enjoy the playful decor (some reviews mention the bar even giving coloring pens to young diners). By balancing dinner service and adult nightlife under one roof, Stampede plays a vital cultural role in South Auckland – it keeps late-night options local and brings diverse crowds together. Patrons say they’ve “found a favourite spot for events” where atmosphere, staff and food all come together (www.ticketfairy.com ). For artists, venues often demand professionalism; Stampede’s team has built a reputation for trustworthiness and good crowds, making acts want to return. All these factors – the immersive theme, the wide roster of performers, the warm service and the sheer size – combine to give Stampede a special character both visitors and locals love.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Stampede is wheelchair accessible with ramp/ground-level entry (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). There are accessible restrooms inside as well. If you have mobility or hearing needs, it’s best to call ahead and let staff know; they are generally attentive to guest comfort. The venue stays fairly well lit down to street level, so moving around isn’t a problem once you’re in.
What to Bring: Bring a photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol (it’s standard NZ policy to check). Outside food or drink is not allowed, but the on-site menu offers plenty (including vegetarian options), so you can plan to eat there. Stampede generally accepts all major cards, but having some cash is wise for small vendors or tips. If you’re sensitive to loud music, consider earplugs – live nights can be quite loud. Also check the weather: since part of the venue is open-air (the “garden bar” area), you might need a jacket or umbrella if coming on a rainy night. For large concerts, tickets only in hand or on your phone: no paper flyers needed on entry.
Age Policies: During dinner hours and many concert nights minors (children under 18) are welcome as many families dine here (www.ticketfairy.com ). Once it gets late (often after ~9–10pm, depending on the night), Stampede effectively becomes 18+. Will-call or advance orders older than 18 are required for purely adult events. Always check the event details: if it’s advertised as “18+” you won’t be allowed entry underage. General bar hours mean the vibe shifts at night, so plan accordingly if bringing teens or kids.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume last-minute tickets – popular shows sell out fast. Likewise, don’t arrive at peak time without prepared. If you want a good seat or table, consider arriving early, especially on weekends (doors often open an hour or more before showtime). Don’t park on private property or overstay a 2-hour zone – Papakura has plenty of parking but also restrictions, and parking wardens do patrol. Dress code is casual, but note that Stampede can get rowdy late at night, so avoid valuables left unattended. Lastly, double-check the event time: when big acts play, opening acts may start hours before, and door time is usually 7–8pm or after. Getting there early gives you time to eat and enjoy happy hour beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets for events at Stampede Restaurant & Bar?
Tickets are generally sold through New Zealand ticketing platforms or directly via the Stampede website when major acts perform. Venues like Stampede also promote upcoming shows on social media – follow their pages or local event listings. For smaller local bands there may just be a cover charge at the door. It’s best to buy early (tickets often go on sale weeks ahead) since popular concerts can sell out quickly.
What are the typical ticket prices for shows at Stampede?
Prices vary widely by event. For local bands or DJs, covers might be quite low (NZ$5–$10), while national touring acts often range NZ$20–$50 for early tickets. Big-name or international artists can reach higher (NZ$60+). Check the specific event announcement for pricing. Often there are discounted “early bird” tickets at first, so buying early usually saves money.
Are tickets sold at the door on the night?
Sometimes, yes – Stampede often keeps a limited number of tickets for door sales if the event is not yet sold out. However, this is not guaranteed, especially for big concerts. To avoid disappointment, buy online in advance. If you do try door sales, arrive well before showtime. Latecomers may be turned away if capacity is reached.
Where is Stampede Restaurant & Bar located?
Stampede is on Great South Road in Papakura, Auckland. The exact address is 238 Great South Road, Papakura 2110 (stampede.co.nz ). It’s in the heart of Papakura’s town centre, close to Papakura Mall and a short walk from the train station.
What public transport options serve Stampede?
Papakura is a transport hub. You can take the Auckland Southern Line train to Papakura Station, which is about a 5–10 minute walk north on Great South Road. Several AT Metro buses also stop nearby – notably routes 33, 373, 376, 378 and 395 (moovitapp.com ) serve Papakura’s town centre. These buses run through most of South Auckland and connect with major bus/train exchange points. Taxis and ride-shares (Uber, Ola, etc.) can easily drop you at the venue’s street address.
Is there parking available at Stampede, and how much does it cost?
Yes, there is public parking around Stampede. Papakura has plenty of council (free or coin-operated) car parks and on-street parking along Great South Road and side streets (papakura.co.nz ). Many short-term bays (2–3 hour limits) are free. If coming via train, Papakura Station car park is free for about 90 minutes (though quite small). In summary, parking is convenient and mostly free or paid by meter – always check signs. On very busy nights it may take a few tries to find a bay, so plan accordingly.
Is Stampede seating reserved or general admission for concerts?
Mostly it’s general admission. For dining hours, tables can be booked in advance like a restaurant, but when there’s a concert or show, seating isn’t reserved – guests stand or sit where they like. On a live band night, the open dance floor and bar area become shared space. If you prefer a seat, arriving early and being among the first to order a meal helps secure a table near the stage. Otherwise, plan to mingle or stand.
Where are the best views of the stage?
Because Stampede’s stage/platform is typically small and towards the back, the ideal spot is often on the open floor just in front of the stage. This is where you’ll feel most immersed in the concert. If you’re dining and want to sit, try to snag a table at the front of the restaurant section (away from the bar) so you can see past diners. Note that being too close to the speakers can be loud, so a few steps back can improve sound balance if needed.
Is Stampede Restaurant & Bar wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Stampede is listed as “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). There is ground-level entry (no steps) and sufficiently wide aisles. The restrooms are standard, with at least one facility on the accessible side. As always, if you have specific accessibility needs, consider calling ahead to ensure any accommodations are in place.
Does Stampede have family-friendly facilities?
Yes – Stampede welcomes families, especially earlier in the evening (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue has a relaxed, playful vibe with its cowboy theme, and reviewers note that kids are often given coloring supplies and even ice cream treats. Meals are moderately priced for families, and children’s plates are available on request. However, after about 8–9pm it shifts toward an adult scene, so families usually go for an early dinner and leave before the late-night partying starts.
Are there vegetarian or vegan food options at Stampede?
Yes. While Stampede is known for steaks and ribs (stampede.co.nz ), they do offer vegetarian-friendly items. For example, the pasta dish on the menu has a vegetarian version available (stampede.co.nz ). They also serve salads and sides that can suit vegetarians. If you have strict dietary needs, you can mention that to staff – they may accommodate requests (like swapping sauces or omitting certain ingredients) when possible.
What is the dress code at Stampede?
Casual attire is perfectly fine – think jeans, tees, weekend wear. Many guests embrace the theme and wear cowboy boots or hats for fun, but that’s purely optional. Stampede does not enforce a formal dress code. On concert nights some people dress up a bit more, but jeans or a casual shirt is usually appropriate. The key is to feel comfortable – you’ll be in a laid-back saloon atmosphere.
Can I take photographs or videos inside Stampede?
Personal photography is generally allowed (many people snap photos of the fun decor and their meals). However, professional cameras or recording equipment usually require permission. If you’re at a small show or touring concert, the artist or venue may ask you not to record the performance. As with most bars, flash photography might be discouraged during live acts. When in doubt, check with door staff or event organizers on policies for that particular night.
Can children attend late-night events at Stampede?
Children and teens are welcome for family dinners or early-evening shows. But if the event is held late (often after 9 or 10pm), it is typically 18+ only. When an event is all-ages, it will be advertised as such. Always check the event listing: if it doesn’t explicitly say “all ages,” assume it’s adults night. For mixed crowds, Stampede staff generally won’t serve alcohol to minors, and you may be asked to move to a family-friendly area if a minors are present.
What happens if I'm running late to a concert at Stampede?
Stampede events tend to start on schedule. Doors often open about an hour before showtime; late arrivals may be allowed in when there is a pause between acts, but there’s no guarantee if the venue is crowded. It’s safest to arrive early. If you must come late, try to slip in quietly at a break. Keep in mind some events have a *strict* no-latecomers policy for safety or artist requirements, so it’s best not to count on last-minute entry.
