Events at The Elephant Wrestler, Auckland

About The Elephant Wrestler

The Elephant Wrestler was a landmark gastropub and beer garden on Hurstmere Road in Takapuna, Auckland (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Opened around 2011 and running for 13 years, this Star Group venue quickly became an “iconic bar” and local institution (www.aucklandmeal.com) (www.aucklandmeal.com). Its name pays tribute to a legendary elephant‐wrestling event that took place in Takapuna in 1912 (www.aucklandmeal.com), giving the pub a playful, historic theme. The venue’s design combined a spacious indoor bar with a large, covered courtyard beer garden (www.eventfinda.co.nz). With about 568 sqm of space (www.frankcommercial.co.nz) and seating scattered between high tables, booths, and outdoor benches, it could host several hundred patrons. Signature features included its “fantastic indoor and outdoor spaces” for dining and partying (www.eventfinda.co.nz), a carving-board menu, and a long list of craft beers and cocktails. The pub’s warm atmosphere – described as lively and welcoming (www.aucklandmeal.com) – along with friendly staff, made it a favourite on Auckland’s North Shore. (Note: the venue closed in late 2024 after 13 years of operation (www.aucklandmeal.com) (www.frankcommercial.co.nz).)

Events and Programming

The Elephant Wrestler was known for a packed calendar of weekly and special events. Regular highlights included a Tuesday pub quiz, a live band or acoustic act every Friday, and DJs spinning dance music on Thursdays and Saturdays (www.eventfinda.co.nz). The covered porch stage often hosted singer‐songwriter nights, karaoke Thursdays, and “Sunday Sessions” with house and drum’n’bass music as promoted by local collectives (e.g. Oh9ine’s Sunday Sounds) (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.ticketfairy.com). In summer, the outdoor courtyard featured lawn games, reggae or acoustic sets, and courtyard parties. Fun theme nights – such as “Bottomless Fried Chicken & Beer” karaoke nights – were regularly scheduled (e.g., a club night with fried chicken and 90‐minute bottomless drinks (www.eventfinda.co.nz)). Special one-off events attracted big names; for example, famous New Zealand soul artist Hollie Smith once played a surprise free gig for regulars (www.aucklandmeal.com). Lip-sync battles and dance competitions also became local legends, turning patrons into stars on stage (www.aucklandmeal.com). These events often had no cover or low ticket price (general admission was usually free (www.eventfinda.co.nz)), though major club nights for ages 18+ sometimes required advance tickets. Overall, Elephant Wrestler’s program centred on casual live entertainment and community‐driven events, making it a hub for everything from quiz nights to electronic dance weekends.

Tickets and Booking

Admission to The Elephant Wrestler was typically free on most nights, especially on quiz or live music evenings (www.eventfinda.co.nz). For bigger party nights or themed events (like holiday parties or major DJ shows), tickets could be bought in advance. The venue did not have its own box office, so tickets were usually sold online or through event promoters. Organisers often used platforms like Ticket Fairy or Eventfinda to list events at Elephant Wrestler, with sales opening weeks ahead of a show (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.ticketfairy.com). Booking a table for dinner was possible by phone or email (the pub had a dedicated reservations line (www.stargroup.nz)), and it was wise to reserve for large groups or on busy weekend nights. For popular performances, tickets tended to sell out quickly – arrive early or secure tickets early to avoid disappointment. General admission events rarely had held-back tickets; patrons simply turned up at the door (often well before the start time) to be among the first in line. (Note that the venue no longer trades, so advance bookings and tickets are no longer applicable.)

Seating and Layout

The Elephant Wrestler offered a variety of seating and standing areas, catering to diners, drinkers, and music fans alike. The main indoor area featured a long bar with stools, scattered high tables, booth seating, and communal benches. A side stage platform (under a covered porch) hosted live bands and DJs, turning the space into a lively mini-concert area. In front of the stage was general admission standing room, ideal for those wanting to dance or crowd-surf. Behind the stage and to the side, elevated tables allowed a clear view of the performance while staying seated. The large covered courtyard – enclosed by fencing and overhead roofing – had outdoor tables and lounge furniture separated from the bar area (www.tripadvisor.co.nz). This courtyard was often used for quieter dining or socialising, apart from the loudest music in the bar. For music nights, the best spots were near the stage for crowds that like to be in the middle of the action, while families or groups out for dinner might prefer the quieter courtyard side. It’s worth noting that the sound level could get quite high near the speakers, so noise-sensitive guests tended to avoid the front rows. Overall, the venue was very spacious (“large, modern venue”) with good sightlines – no fixed theatre-style seats – so arriving early was key to grabbing the preferred seats or tables. For special events or group bookings, there was limited “function space” available (the venue did advertise private event bookings), but most events were first-come, first-served.

Getting There and Parking

The Elephant Wrestler’s address was 138 Hurstmere Road, at the heart of Takapuna’s entertainment precinct (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Hurstmere Road is a wide, pedestrian-friendly main street leading directly to Takapuna Beach. By car, the venue is just off State Highway 15; GPS should be set to Takapuna and “Hurstmere Rd.” Public parking options are plentiful in Takapuna: there’s a pay carpark at 144-148 Hurstmere Road (Wilson’s Hurstmere Car Park) where casual rates start around $5 (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). A multi-level council carpark (Toka Puia at Northcroft/Huron Streets) is a 5-minute walk away, with roughly $3/hour rates and free weekends (www.ilovetakapuna.co.nz). The Shore City Mall has free 2-hour parking for visitors (www.ilovetakapuna.co.nz), and other Wilson lots (e.g. “Car Park by the Sea” off Hurstmere) are nearby (some $7/hour). On-street parking along Hurstmere and the parallel lanes is also available (metered diurnal and short-term bays). Importantly, the recent Hurstmere Road upgrade added seven new council parking spots and two designated mobility parks (www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz), making access easier for disabled drivers. If using rideshare or taxi, drop-off directly in front on Hurstmere Rd is convenient enough (the wide sidewalk and slower traffic make it easy to step out). For public transport, Takapuna Bus Station is just one block north (on Hurstmere opposite the mall). Several Auckland Transport bus routes (including the Northern Express NX1/NX2 via Smales Farm, and local routes 81, 82, 83, etc.) stop within a few minutes’ walk. Simply alight at "Takapuna Centre" or "Takapuna Station" and walk south. Shuttles from motorway park‐and‐rides (like Auckland's Northern Express) or ferries to Devonport plus a short bus ride also serve Takapuna. In summary, you can easily reach Elephant Wrestler by car (ample parking) or by bus from central Auckland; downtown trains do not go to the shore, so bus or car are the main options.

Inside the Venue

Upon entry, visitors found a buzzing pub atmosphere. Staff greeted guests at an open foyer with visible wristbanding/ID checks (standard for 18+ zones). The interior was decorated in a modern, rustic style – warm lighting, wooden finishes, and elephant-themed accents. Large windows (or garage-style doors) could open to the courtyard, letting in natural light. Two well-stocked bars served a wide selection of craft and international beers, boutique wines, and creative cocktails. The menu of “gastrobar” food was extensive: expect signature carving boards, gourmet burgers, hand-stretched pizzas, salads, and hearty grill options (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Patrons placed orders at the bar or (at busier times) had table service. Prices were mid-range pub prices – modestly higher than a standard bar due to the quality portions – and many reviewers noted generous serving sizes (www.tripadvisor.co.nz). Seating was generally open, but at busy times the host stand guided parties to available tables/benches. The venue had multiple restroom facilities upstairs and downstairs (unisex and disabled-access toilets) – signage made these easy to find. A Wi-Fi network was offered (if any), but many visitors simply used mobile data. There was usually no cloakroom or coat check, though lockers might be provided for large events (guests often just hung coats on chairs). Other amenities included a small outdoor smoking area by the courtyard exit (smoking was banned inside), and a simple merchandise corner selling branded glassware or caps on occasion. Security staff patrolled during big events. Overall the vibe inside was casual and friendly. Guests often noted the lively background music or live acts, the friendly bartenders, and the chance encounter with other locals. It felt like a home turf for Takapuna – welcoming to both families (in early hours) and clubbers (late at night).

Nearby Amenities

Takapuna’s Hurstmere Road is a bustling strip, so there is no shortage of things to do before or after visiting Elephant Wrestler. For pre-show dining, dozens of restaurants line Hurstmere: casual cafes and takeaways (Mexican tacos, sushi, fish & chips, juice bars) and sit-down establishments (Italian trattorias, Asian-fusion spots, classic Kiwi taverns). Just across the street is Mac’s Brewbar (10m from Elephant) known for pizza and craft beer. A block away on Hurstmere is the Greek restaurant Bird on a Wire, and a bit further the Argentinian restaurant Fortieth & Hurstmere. For cocktails and late-night drinks, popular spots like Reunion and Lemon Tariff are a short stumble away. If you fancy a quieter drink, try one of the local wine bars or the rooftop garden at Hotel de Brett nearby. To make a night of it, Takapuna offers a few hotel options within walking distance: the Stamford Plaza (luxury, 5min away) and the Orchid Boutique hotel (mid-range, lakeside). Budget stays might be found at the just-off-main-road motels on Lake Road. After shows, late-night coffee or snacks are still available around The Strand. Crucially, Takapuna Beach (with sand and lakefront path) is only 200m east of Hurstmere – a great place for a post-gig stroll or to enjoy a pre-sunset drink. For those expanding their evening, Takapuna’s night bus routes (Upper Harbour Drive/Smales Farm) run late, or taxis/Uber riders are plentiful. The upgraded Hurstmere streetscape also means safer cycling and expansive sidewalks (www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz) (www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz). In short, visitors find the Elephant Wrestler in the heart of a compact nightlife district – restaurants, cafes, bars and even a cinema are all within easy walking distance.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Elephant Wrestler stood out for its unique blend of atmosphere and story. Architecturally it wasn’t a historic building, but rather a contemporary pub designed for comfort and fun – a contrast to more traditional taverns. Its “larger than life” scale (568 sqm bar/restaurant) set it apart from smaller Shore pubs (www.frankcommercial.co.nz). The venue’s identity was steeped in local lore: naming it after a 1912 circus attraction gave it an instantly memorable theme (www.aucklandmeal.com). Inside, the decor featured subtle elephant motifs and quirky art. The massive beer garden (one of the largest on the North Shore) gave an almost suburban-bush feel on summer nights. The crowd made it special – a mix of Takapuna professionals, families, and university students. Many staff became personalities; for instance, bartenders would regale customers with local history or birthday serenades. Over the years it has hosted the Comedy Festival, Pride events and charity fundraisers, further weaving it into Auckland’s cultural life. The management’s tight bond with the community was clear: as one notice upon closing said, “We have loved serving you, providing fun nights and … memories… an] iconic bar that became an institution” ([www.aucklandmeal.com). Well-known features included their weekly Trivia Tuesdays, open mic nights, and annual community barbecues. Artists and musicians enjoyed the venue too – it became a go-to spot for testing new acts. In short, The Elephant Wrestler’s reputation came not just from food and drink, but from the good times it hosted and the community it served. This loyal local fanbase and its role in Takapuna’s nightlife made it more than “just another pub.”

Visitor Tips and Information

• Accessibility: The venue was wheelchair accessible – a ramp led to the entrance and indoor/outdoor areas were flat (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Accessible toilets were available. The renovated Hurstmere area includes two dedicated mobility parking spots nearby (www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz).​
• Bring ID: Carry a valid photo ID (NZ driver licence or passport) if you’re 18+, as alcohol license laws require ID checks after dark. The Elephant Wrestler practiced standard Auckland pub rules (no passes or digital ID scans). If attending late, expect wristbanding.
• Age restrictions: Daytime hours were family-friendly, but after 8 pm the venue enforced an 18+ rule for alcohol sales. Some late-night events were strictly 18+ entry. (Children should be accompanied by parents and usually didn’t enter when loud music was on.)
• Dress code: Very casual – think smart-casual pub attire. No formal dress code; shorts, tshirts and even nice hoodies were fine. For very polite events (like a dinner meeting), avoid beachwear. Heels and flip-flops are okay; just be aware the floor may get sticky.
• Coat check and storage: The venue did not typically offer a coat check. On rainy nights, guests often hung jackets over the backs of chairs. Light packs or handbags were fine, but very large backpacks might be spread on the floor near your table.
• Photography and recording: Casual photos are fine. Professional photography or recording (for musicians or vloggers) required prior permission. On busy event nights with club setups, security might restrict large cameras for privacy.
• Smoking: NZ law forbids indoor smoking. There was an outdoor smoking area in the courtyard for lit cigarettes and vapes. Smoking outside was allowed as long as you respected fire restrictions (especially in dry summer).
• Average spend: Drinks ranged from ~$9 beer to $14 cocktails; main meals $20–$35. Promotions like happy hour were announced on their Facebook page (e.g., 5–7pm weekday specials). Cash and cards were accepted; a small venue fee might apply to split bills. Tip: on busy nights, service could slow, so expect about 15–20 minutes for each meal/drink order.
• Etiquette: NZ pubs are generally polite. Form an orderly queue to order, don’t shout. Tipping is not mandatory in NZ, but leaving loose change for good service is appreciated. Keep noise levels reasonable in the dining area (though live music nights were loud by design). If dancing, respect other patrons’ space.
• Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t arrive too late on show nights – once the stage area fills, standing room becomes scarce. Also, parking on-hand first – Hurstmere can fill up. Avoid assuming huge crowds on a Tuesday or Wednesday (those nights were usually quieter). If you prefer a table, book ahead or get there early. Finally, note that after closure, no new info will appear on old event listings, so verify current status on trusted sites or social media.
• Last Call and Travel Home: The Elephant Wrestler closed around midnight (Sun–Wed) or 1am (Thu–Sat) (www.theurbanlist.com). Plan transport accordingly: local night buses were limited, so consider Uber/taxi in advance if staying late. The walk to the bus station or beach is safe and short (under 10 min), but cabs are plentiful on Friday/Saturday nights.

Frequently Asked Questions