About The Wine Cellar
Nestled in the basement of the historic St Kevin’s Arcade at 183 Karangahape Road, The Wine Cellar was a tiny dive-bar live music venue beloved by Aucklanders. Its atmosphere is deliberately cosy and underground – a “one-of-a-kind” setting with a low ceiling, dim lighting and recycled, DIY décor . Founder Rohan Evans (son of a Coromandel winemaker) built much of the bar himself – including a giant rimu wine-barrel bar top and hand-carved, Tolkien-style signage – to make it feel like a friendly old tavern that “might’ve always been there” . Over twenty years it became a well-loved landmark in Auckland’s indie and folk music scene . Although the venue closed after its final show on 3 August 2024 , The Wine Cellar’s legacy endures: it remains remembered as an intimate, community-focused club where music lovers gathered “late into the evening” to discover bands .
Events and Programming
The Wine Cellar hosted live music nearly every night it was open, with a wildly varied program. On any given week you could hear local folk duos, guitar-driven indie rock, punk and experimental noise sets, or singer-songwriters – even improv jazz nights. For example, it became home to “Vitamin S,” a freeform jazz/noise/improvised music session that ran weekly for years . The venue often featured up-and-coming Kiwi acts; in fact, many of New Zealand’s biggest young artists played some of their earliest shows there. As one article notes, “every major name to come out of Aotearoa independent music in the last decade” – from The Beths to Princess Chelsea to Marlon Williams – graced The Wine Cellar stage early in their careers . The Wine Cellar also hosted one-off showcases and anniversary concerts (for example multi-band anniversary events in 2023 and 2024 spanned multiple stages at the venue and upstairs in the connected Whammy Bar ). In short, the programming was eclectic and adventurous – anything from local indie bands to occasional visiting international acts – making it a go-to spot for new and experimental music . Typical ticket prices ranged from modest cover charges for emerging artists (around NZ$15–$20) up to higher amounts (NZ$25–$30+) for special shows; some “jam” or community nights were even free or by koha. Because the venue was small and shows could sell out, it paid to buy tickets early or arrive early on event nights to grab a spot.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Wine Cellar events are usually sold through New Zealand ticketing sites (e.g. Eventfinda, TicketFairy, etc.) or directly at the venue door if any remain. Popular gigs often sell out quickly, so it’s wise to book online as soon as a show is announced. (For example, when the final-anniversary show was announced, fans were told to “head along while you can” because it would sell fast .) The Wine Cellar did not have a traditional box office on site; patrons either print an e-ticket or buy at the door. Online sales typically open a few weeks before each gig, and for very popular or limited-capacity shows the venue might offer a small presale. No matter the method, arrive early – on busy nights the line can form at the door a bit before showtime. Cover charges vary, but a typical show might be NZ$20–$25; check the event listing for the exact price. Remember that *all* events were R18 at this bar, so you must present valid photo ID for entry.
Seating and Layout
The Wine Cellar’s layout was very simple. A single staircase from street level led down to one long, narrow basement room. The stage was at the far end, with the audience standing out on the floor in front of it. Because the space was so small (holding on the order of 60–80 people at most), there were no assigned seats or balconies. A few high-top tables or bar chairs may line the sides or back wall, but most patrons stood or milled around. For the best view and sound, aim to be near the front, but even the back corner wasn’t far from the stage – everything is immersive in such an intimate room. (In the early days, an open-air alley at the rear was used as an additional performance area for bigger acts , but by the end, all acts played inside the main bar area.) Some people prefer to claim a spot on the left side of the stage where the PA speakers point, or near a side wall to lean on. Avoid standing directly under large speakers or behind a bar column if possible, as those spots can have muffled acoustics or blocked sightlines. Note also that the cellar’s low ceiling can make it hot when the crowd is packed; dress in layers or be prepared to step outside (the bar had a small open smoking area out back) to cool off if needed.
Getting There and Parking
The Wine Cellar’s address was 183 Karangahape Road (K’Road), in downtown Auckland. It sat beneath the entry to St Kevin’s Arcade – a two-story art-deco shopping arcade built in 1924 . If you’re driving, on-street metered parking is available along K’Road (though spaces are limited and usually paid by the hour). The safer bet is nearby pay parking: for example, Wilson Parking runs a lot at 24 Mercury Lane just a short walk away . (Other nearby car parks on Pitt Street or Grafton Road are also options.) If you prefer public transit, The Wine Cellar is very central. Auckland’s free-ride central loop buses stop nearby – the CityLink (red bus) stops at 145 K’Road and the InnerLink (green bus) stops at 214 K’Road, both just steps from the arcade entrance . Many other city bus routes serve Queen Street and Karangahape Road, which are within easy walking distance. The nearest train station is Britomart (about 10–15 minutes’ walk to the east) or Grafton station (a similar distance to the west). For a taxi or rideshare, the drop-off point is on K’Road right at St Kevin’s Arcade. In short, the venue was very accessible by foot, bus or taxi; just allow extra time for parking or bus scheduling on busy nights.
Inside the Venue
Inside The Wine Cellar you’ll find exactly what its promotional copy advertised: a dark, relaxed dive-bar atmosphere. At the top of the stairs a doorperson checked tickets and IDs at the street entrance (remember, no minors allowed). Once downstairs, the main room opened up with the bar to one side. A chalkboard menu typically listed a selection of beers, ciders, and wines (including some local craft beers and possibly a pour from the owner’s own Purangi Estate labels). It was a bar-first space, so there was no kitchen or full meal service – snacks were limited to simple bar munchies if anything. People often chatted or leaned against the bar as they drank, waiting for the music to start. The décor was very unpretentious: exposed brick or stone walls, a worn wooden floor, and the custom wine-barrel bar top and carved wooden signs mentioned earlier . Restrooms were located at the rear; there was just one small bathroom in the cellar (one longtime report joked that only one toilet ever needed replacing in 11 years of operation ). There was no coat check, so patrons usually hung coats on chair backs or left them near the bar. In terms of tech, the venue had a basic professional PA and stage lighting rig – enough for a full band’s sound. A small mixing desk was set up near the front, so the sound engineer (often Rohan himself) mixed the show right beside the crowd. Wireless internet was not offered; phone reception was spotty in the basement. If a band brought merchandise, they would lay it out on a table by the stage or door; cash and cards could be used for drinks and merch. Overall the feel inside The Wine Cellar was very much “come as you are” – a comfy locals’ bar vibe, dark, loud with music, and embraced by music lovers .
Nearby Amenities
The K’Road/St Kevin’s Arcade neighbourhood is one of Auckland’s liveliest, so you won’t have to wander far for food, drinks or post-show entertainment. On the arcade’s ground level and nearby streets you’ll find eateries of all kinds. St Kevin’s Arcade itself hosts small cafes (for example, the Bestie café – also known as “The Bestie” – sits above the venue) that serve coffee, pastries and light bites . Along K’Road one block east or west are popular restaurants and takeaways – for instance Nepali-Chinese fusion (Chulo/Madras Curry), Thai or Vietnamese places (like Krua Kirimun or Ponsonby Hutt Road outlets), Mexican (Mad Mex), and New Zealand bistros or pizza pubs. Directly outside the arcade is Neck of the Woods, a casual gastropub that serves pub fare and evening DJ music; in summer you’ll also see the line for the Wellington-based Pita Pit. On the corner by Mercury Lane is the Wharf Bar & Grill (with a big meal menu and outdoor seating), and a short walk west on K’Road brings you to the vintage real ale pub Post Office Hotel or the contemporary Moon Bar & Restaurant. If you like street food, the Satay Brothers food stall and big coffee truck often park on K’Road nearby. For drinks before or after the show, note that Rohan’s upstairs partner venue (the Whammy Public Bar) is right next door at street level – it has a full bar menu and late-night service – though its back stage closes early on regular nights. As for transport home: after midnight, most city buses have ceased, so count on taxis/Uber. The C1 inner-city bus (free with HOP card sometimes) runs along K’Road until about midnight. If you’re coming from out of town, consider nearby hotels in the CBD (for example the Sofitel Auckland or Rydges at the corner of Wellesley and Albert Streets, roughly 5 blocks away) so you can walk from a late show.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Wine Cellar’s charm came from its authenticity and community spirit. It never aimed to be sleek or profitable – instead it cultivated a genuine underground culture. Music writers describe it as “Auckland’s creative hub” and a venue that has “grown [local music] from the bottom up” . Despite its tiny size, it made an outsized impact: virtually every young band in the NZ indie scene earned early stripes on its stage. As one article put it, “every major name” in recent Kiwi indie (like The Beths, Princess Chelsea, Marlon Williams and others) performed some of their first shows at The Wine Cellar . The bar’s history is woven into K’Road lore – for example, Auckland media have called it “the best dive bar in town” and lauded its role in nurturing new talent . Inside, the look and feel are distinctly down-to-earth: the wooden barrel bar, engraved signs and worn-in furniture give it its dive-aesthetic charm . For many artists and audiences, it became a “second home” – Zoe Larsen-Cumming (aka Babe Martin) says that because of the “calibre of musicians that play there,” the venue “makes me want to do my best” . In short, The Wine Cellar was special not because of fancy amenities, but because it provided a welcoming, gritty platform for original music. Its friendly, all-ages-turned-adult vibe made even casual gigs feel like a local tradition.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility & entry: The venue was down a stairway, so it was not wheelchair-accessible. All shows were R18, so bring photo ID. Doors usually opened about 30 minutes before showtime; check the event details but many nights saw doors at 8:00pm . Expect a lineup forming outside on busy nights. The dress code was always casual (jeans and a T-shirt or similar is fine) – the crowd is laid-back. What to bring: Since it was mostly standing room, consider comfortable shoes and don’t bring large bags (space is tight). There was no coat check, so stow jackets at your feet or on a spare chair. Inside: Don’t overspend too much time on your phone – the Wi-Fi is spotty. You’re encouraged to take photos or videos of the bands (unless a particular act asks otherwise), but loud flash photography may annoy other concertgoers. Beverages and bar: The full bar offered craft beers, ciders, wines and some spirits – but no kitchen/cooked food. If you have dietary needs, eat beforehand at one of the nearby restaurants. Please note that outside food or drink is not allowed. Smoking: Smoking (including vaping) was permitted only outside. You can step into the alleyway beside the building if smoking, but keep it quick so the music can continue uninterrupted. Restrooms: There was just one small bathroom down the hall, so be prepared to wait at peak times. General behavior: Treat it like a local pub: polite and friendly. The venue encouraged supporting the artists and venue by buying a drink or CD, and respecting the sound tech and performers. Post-show transport: The area is generally safe but it’s late-night Auckland – if you have to walk home, stick to main streets and watch for cars. Alternatively, hail a taxi or rideshare from K’Road after the show (cabs often queue on Queen Street or Wellesley Street nearby). If you plan to leave by bus, check schedules first: most city buses stop about midnight. Finally, many locals advise that coming early (or on earlier calendar dates) can help you avoid missing out on a popular event – especially during Auckland’s busy music seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Wine Cellar located?
The Wine Cellar sat at 183 Karangahape Road in central Auckland, down a staircase in the basement of St Kevin’s Arcade . It was on Karangahape Road (often called “K’Road”) between Mercury Lane and Pitt Street. The main entrance is on the street level of the arcade; once inside, go down the stairs to the bar and venue.
How do I get tickets to a show at The Wine Cellar?
Tickets were typically sold online through local New Zealand ticketing platforms (such as Eventfinda or TicketFairy) or through the event promoter’s website. Some gigs also allowed any remaining tickets to be purchased at the door on the night of the show (cash or card) if not already sold out. For popular events (like anniversary shows or big-headlining bands), it was best to buy in advance as “the last show” announcement warned fans to book early . Keep an eye on the venue’s or promoters’ announcements, as sales usually opened a few weeks before each gig.
What is the cover charge for shows, and when do tickets usually go on sale?
Cover charges varied by event. Small local acts and youth bands generally had low venue fees – often around NZ$15–$20. Shows featuring well-known indie acts or multiple bands could be NZ$25–$30 or more. There were even occasional free-entry jam nights. Tickets typically went on sale about 2–3 weeks before each event. Because the venue was tiny, tickets could sell out quickly once on sale, so it was recommended to buy early.
Is there reserved seating at The Wine Cellar?
No – The Wine Cellar was mostly general admission standing room. There were a few high tables and bar stools along the sides, but most people stood on the main floor. As one writer noted, even a “packed-out” show would still feel like a very close, small crowd . For the best view of the stage, arrive early and stake out a position near the front or along a side wall. Even the back of the room offers a decent sightline in such a small space.
What public transport can I take to The Wine Cellar?
Auckland’s public transport circles right past the venue. The free CityLink (red) and InnerLink (green) buses run around the CBD and stop on K’Road within a block of the arcade entrance . For example, both routes stop at 145 K’Road, and the InnerLink also stops at 214 K’Road, right outside the arcade . Many other buses from the city center, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn and beyond run along nearby streets (Queen St, Wellesley St, Ponsonby Rd). The venue was also only about a 10–15 minute walk from Britomart Train Station or the downtown bus hub if you’re coming from elsewhere. Taxis and rideshares can easily drop you at Karangahape Road and Mercury Lane.
Is parking available near The Wine Cellar?
There is metered street parking on Karangahape Road and adjacent streets, but spaces are quite limited and can fill up on busy nights. A convenient option is the Wilson Parking lot on Mercury Lane (next to the arcade) – it’s just a short walk from the venue. Other paid car parks are within a block or two (for example on Pitt Street or Grafton Road). Rates vary but expect roughly NZ$3–$5 per hour in the area. If you plan to drive, allow extra time to find a spot or consider public transit instead.
What are the best places to pre-drink or eat near The Wine Cellar?
The surrounding K’Road area has lots of options. Within St Kevin’s Arcade there are cafes upstairs (for example, the Bestie cafe ) serving coffee, sandwiches and snacks. Along K’Road one block each way you’ll find casual restaurants: anything from Nepalese-Chinese (Chulo) to Thai (Krua or Ponsonby Hutt Street), Mexican (Mad Mex), and New Zealand-style bistros. For drinks, the Neck of the Woods pub (next door to the arcade) and the Whammy Public Bar (street-level in the arcade) offer fuller menus and are open later if you want to continue the night. Basically, if you arrive early enough, K’Road has plenty of food and coffee spots for pre-show meals or coffees.
Is there a dress code at The Wine Cellar?
No formal dress code – The Wine Cellar was very casual. Most people came in everyday attire (jeans, T-shirt, casual tops). Because the space is small and concerts can become crowded and hot, we recommended dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes. The only real requirement was you be at least 18 and sober enough for entry.
Can I bring a camera or recording device into the venue?
Phones and small personal cameras were generally fine, as long as you’re respectful. Many attendees took photos or quick videos of the performances. However, professional-looking cameras or video equipment would typically need pre-approval from the venue. Also, avoid using flash photography during shows since it can distract performers and the audience.
What items are not allowed inside The Wine Cellar?
As a typical bar venue, The Wine Cellar required there be no outside alcohol or hard drugs brought in. Large bags or backpacks were usually discouraged simply because the space is tight. Smoking or vaping was not allowed inside (there was a designated outdoor smoking area). Other than that, you could bring essentials like your wallet, ID (mandatory), phone/camera, and maybe a light jacket.
Is The Wine Cellar wheelchair accessible?
No – The Wine Cellar was down a flight of stairs into a basement, so it was not wheelchair-accessible. There was no elevator or ramp. Patrons with accessibility needs would have had difficulty entering. (The nearby Whammy Bar/Double Whammy facility at street level has an accessible entrance, if that is an alternative.)
What was the capacity of The Wine Cellar?
The Wine Cellar was very small. It could hold roughly 60–80 people at a time (including those standing and a few stools). Part of its charm was how intimate and packed it felt even at normal shows. Exactly official capacity has varied over time, but it was generally well under 100.
What kind of music is played at The Wine Cellar?
A very wide range of styles – but mostly indie/alternative. You could hear folk and acoustic sets, rock and punk bands, avant-garde or noise experiments, singer-songwriters, and anything in between. The venue was known for eclectic, “avant-garde” music as much as for pop or rock. In the words of local writers, it specialized in “indie, folk, or experimental music” and in general drew adventurous, underground acts rather than mainstream cover bands.
When did The Wine Cellar open and did it close?
It opened in 2004 after founder Rohan Evans converted the basement space into a bar/venue . It operated continuously (helping launch many local bands) until 2024. In mid-2024 Rohan announced that August 3, 2024 would be its final show and that the events would move to a new larger venue (the “Double Whammy”) after that. So while The Wine Cellar is now closed permanently, its legacy is an important part of Auckland’s recent music history.
Why was it called “The Wine Cellar” if it’s a bar venue?
The name comes from the founder’s family business. Rohan Evans grew up on Purangi Estate in the Coromandel (a winery), and when he opened the bar in 2004 he was essentially creating a “branch” of the family wine business in Auckland. He originally intended to pop some family wines on tap, and the bar interior (made from wooden barrels) reflected that wine-cellar theme . Over time it became better known as a dive music venue, but the name stuck as a nod to its origins.
Are children allowed at The Wine Cellar?
No – The Wine Cellar was licensed as an R18 venue, meaning no one under 18 could enter. All patrons had to show valid photo ID at the door. Managers enforced this strictly, so it was not suitable for kids or teens.
Is there a cover charge for entry or a membership?
The Wine Cellar was a public bar; there was no membership or membership fee required. However, almost every event did have a cover charge or ticket price (even local gigs charged a small cover). Typically you paid at the door or via an online ticket in advance. Non-event nights (rare) might not have any cover, but do not assume free entry. Always check the event listing for a cover charge or ticket price in advance.
What is the dress code or cultural vibe at The Wine Cellar?
The vibe was casual and artsy. You would see everything from students in sneakers to folksters in cardigans or indie-kids in vintage clothes – but nothing formal. The key is comfort, since you’ll be on your feet. A common saying among patrons was “come as you are.” The venue felt very inclusive: no one judged fancy versus shabby. If you dress down modestly, you’ll fit right in.
How late do shows usually go at The Wine Cellar?
Shows typically ran overnight. Doors might open around 8pm , and music often continued until at least midnight or later (the bar was licensed late into the wee hours). Smaller gigs sometimes ended by 11 or midnight, while bigger multi-band events could run past midnight. In practice, many nights carried on with DJs or jam sessions after the “headline” set. As a rule, you could expect to be out of there after midnight on a typical Friday/Saturday show, so plan your transport accordingly.
Where can I find The Wine Cellar’s event calendar?
The Wine Cellar did not maintain its own official public website. Most people found upcoming shows via music news sites and ticketing platforms (e.g. UnderTheRadar, Eventfinda, or local gig guides) which listed Wine Cellar events. In practice, fans often followed the promoters (like those running Under the Arcade shows) on social media or email newsletters. If using a search engine, look up “The Wine Cellar Auckland gigs” or “Wine Cellar Karangahape Road schedule” to find current listings when it was open.
What happened to The Wine Cellar after its final show?
After the 3 August 2024 finale, The Wine Cellar’s space ceased hosting events. The owner joined forces with the neighboring Whammy Bar to move the programming to a new, larger venue called Double Whammy. In short, The Wine Cellar itself closed permanently in 2024 . Fans of that scene can now look for shows at Whammy/Double Whammy, which is run by the same team in a bigger location.
