Events at Thursday Bar, Auckland

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KUMI x CHRIS KEENE - Auckland

12 September 2025 Friday / 10:00 PM

Thursday Bar, Auckland

About Thursday Bar

Thursday Bar is a highly exclusive, underground members-only bar tucked away at 224 Symonds Street in central Auckland (www.venuesforhire.co.nz). Opened in 2020 by the Crave Global creative agency, it is styled like a modern New York–inspired lounge. The space was completely revamped from an old craft-beer basement into a plush den with moody, atmospheric lighting and velvet booth seating (concreteplayground.com). Only about 10–60 guests fit comfortably in its ~150 m² floor plan (www.sharedspace.co.nz). It’s known for top-shelf cocktails and craft beers (for example, cocktail creations like a smoked chili margarita or an absinthe–champagne mix, and ales from Panhead and Emerson’s) (concreteplayground.com). The vibe is distinctly bougie and intimate – a city insider calls it “a hidden gem with a speakeasy vibe” – and it enforces strict etiquette. Phones and cameras are taboo (patrons “should take note of the ‘no whispers’ policy” and leave phones off or at home) (concreteplayground.com) (concreteplayground.com). Because it runs on invitation, Thursday Bar rarely notices general passersby. Membership (free by application) is limited to a few hundred people (concreteplayground.com), with each member allowed to sponsor one guest. In short, Thursday Bar matters as a trendy late-night creative hub: a secretive space where Auckland’s creatives go to enjoy high-end drinks and mingle after hours.

Events and Programming

Thursday Bar’s calendar centers on late-night social and musical events. By design it’s typically only open on Thursday evenings for member-only gatherings, but it can be rented as a private venue on other nights. Common offerings include DJ and dance parties, wine or cocktail tastings, and small live performances. For example, regional DJ nights have featured international acts (a 2025 flyer shows Melbourne DJs KUMI and Chris Keene hosting a music night running from 10pm–3am (www.ticketfairy.com)). Similarly, local DJs like Dave Ti and “Murry Sweetpants” have played past secret events here. Because capacity is so limited, events fill up fast. Most are *RSVP or invite only* – Ticket listings emphasize “VERY LIMITED CAPACITY” and often note “FREE ENTRY VIA RSVP ONLY” (www.ticketfairy.com). Standard nightclub final admission rules apply (usually an ID check at entry). Ticket pricing is rarely publicized; most nights are free for members and their guests. When the bar’s privately hired for functions (corporate soirees, wedding after-parties, product launches, etc.), those events may carry a service fee or require buying packages. Overall, Thursday Bar’s programming skews upscale nightlife: expect chill-to-upbeat DJs, specialty cocktail menus, and creative industry mixers rather than mainstream cover bands or large concerts.

Tickets and Booking

Thursday Bar does not sell general-admission tickets to the public. There is no usual box office or regular ticket outlet – entry is strictly by membership or invitation. Membership is free and gained by application (limited to about 200 active members at a time) (concreteplayground.com). Once a member, you can nominate guests and receive event invites. Non-members can only gain entry by being invited by a member or on a guest list for a special event. When events are announced, organizers typically use RSVP lists rather than paid ticketing – as noted, sample event flyers say “RSVP only” and “free entry” (www.ticketfairy.com). If the venue is hired privately, booking fees apply; published event-space listings note roughly NZ$1000/day for exclusive use (www.sharedspace.co.nz). In practice, to plan a visit you should monitor local listings or the bar’s communications for when members-only nights are happening, and request an invite or RSVP early. Wine or cocktail tasting events may have separate sign-up processes. For private hire (up to ~60 people), contact the bar’s management via their official channels to discuss dates and pricing. In short, forget traditional ticket counters – think of Thursday Bar as a secret club accessible only by prior arrangement.

Seating and Layout

Thursday Bar’s interior is one open-plan basement room. There is no distinct stage or amphitheater – most of the space is a lounge. Along the sides and rear are upholstered booths and low lounges, while a polished-backlit bar runs across one wall. The décor is upscale “New York–style”: exposed brick, brushed metal fixtures and rich leather seating under adjustable mood lighting (concreteplayground.com). Acoustically, the room is small and generally quiet on lounge nights; sound levels rise when a DJ or band is playing. A built-in sound system (as advertised by the venue) ensures clear music even when it’s louder. Sightlines are open: in practice, any seat gives a good view of the DJ area or performers, but the most energetic dancing happens on the floor near the console. Technically, the space is about 150 m² (www.sharedspace.co.nz). There are no fixed “VIP” sections by default, though in a fully booked private event organizers might rope off areas. Be aware that the velvet booths are more for sitting than dancing (standing or hopping on them is famously discouraged unless you’ve removed your shoes (concreteplayground.com)). The bar’s small size means the room can fill up; many guests advise arriving early on busy nights to avoid door closures due to capacity. In summary, seating is cozy and informal – take what’s available, but seated booths at the back can be quieter for conversation, while the front zone near the sound equipment is livelier if you’re there for dancing and DJs.

Getting There and Parking

Thursday Bar sits at 224 Symonds Street, in the Eden Terrace part of the CBD just west of Karangahape Road (www.venuesforhire.co.nz). It’s easily walkable from downtown Auckland. For drivers, street parking is limited but possible on Symonds Street and side roads (metered at standard Auckland rates during the day). Two nearby commercial garages are Wilson Parking at 49 Symonds Street (entrance off Symonds) and SecurePark at 67 Symonds Street. The Wilson lot advertises “Casual from: $5.00” (www.wilsonparking.co.nz) for short stays. Another Parkopedia listing shows roughly $7 for two hours at 67 Symonds (evening rates) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). In practice, expect about $5–10 for a few hours nearby. Rideshare/taxi drop-off can be at the door (ask for “224 Symonds, corner of Pitt Street”). Public transit: Several frequent buses stop just a block away along Symonds or Karangahape Road. For example, route 27 connects Symonds Street to Britomart (central train hub) and Mt. Eden, while routes 22R/24R/70 run up Symonds and the New North Road corridor. (The forthcoming Karangahape train station on the new City Rail Link will be within a few blocks, further improving access.) If traveling by train now, the nearest existing rail stops are Britomart or Newmarket – from there catch a bus north on Symonds to the venue. Overall, plan 5–10 minutes from downtown by bus, or a short city drive.

Inside the Venue

Expect a dimly lit, intimate nightclub atmosphere once you step inside Thursday Bar. At the door staff will verify your entry (checking membership or guest status) and ID (18+ only). Inside, the bartender serves a curated drink menu: shaken cocktails, beers, wines, and premium spirits. (One news feature noted specialty options like global whiskies and niche liqueurs (concreteplayground.com).) There’s no full kitchen, but small catered bites or event snacks may appear at private functions. The bar itself is well-stocked; wines from Waiheke and Barossa and craft NZ beers are on offer (concreteplayground.com). Patrons should note the strict no-phone policy: you are expected to keep devices out of sight and focus on conversation or performing. Bathrooms are located in the basement area (same level). The staff are said to be friendly and discreet, tending bar in coats and formal attire. You’ll see a concierge style of service: orders may take a bit of time due to craft mixes but the bartenders craft each drink to order. Coat/belongings: there’s no sign of a formal cloakroom, so guests usually keep coats with them or stack on a chair. Restrooms are standard and accessible from the main area. Meanwhile, it pays to dress smartly – the place has an upscale vibe, so flip-flops or overly casual wear might feel out of place. Finally, note seating as mentioned above – booths are for sitting, and standing on furniture is discouraged (concreteplayground.com). In short, expect a curated, high-end bar experience inside Thursday Bar, with attentive service and an air of exclusivity.

Nearby Amenities

Surrounding Thursday Bar is the vibrant Karangahape Road (“K’ Road”) neighborhood, rich in eateries and nightlife. For pre-show dining, you’ll find a slew of options on K’ Road just a block away: international cuisines (Vietnamese pho shops, Thai curry houses, Mexican cantinas, etc.), trendy cafes, and classic Auckland pubs. Popular spots include hole-in-the-wall burger joints and fusion restaurants just up the street. If you want a sit-down meal, there are several casual restaurants and upscale bars within a 5–10 minute walk (from modern Asian bistros to French bakeries). Alternatively, you could grab quick bar food at Schapiro’s Sports Bar (in the same building, accessible by staircase above Thursday) or hit one of the gastropubs on Karangahape. In the immediate block are also bars for an early evening drink: e.g. a sports bar right downstairs, plus cocktail lounges and microbreweries on Karangahape. For late-night options afterward, the area still has open bars into the early hours, though taxis/Uber become a safer bet as after-midnight shifts roll by. Hotels: Several city hotels are within easy distance. The nearest full-service hotel is the Cordis Auckland on Symonds Street (about a 2-minute walk north). Others include the Crowne Plaza or QT Hotel in central city (10–15 min walk east toward Queen St), and city-center chain hotels along Wellesley or Victoria Street. Budget-friendly options (hostels, motels) are also scattered nearby in Eden Terrace. If attending a late show, consider booking anywhere on K’ Road or downtown – you’ll be just a short stroll or ride away.

What Makes This Venue Special

Thursday Bar stands out as Auckland’s “secret” high-end bar. It pioneered a members-only model in the city – you literally need an invite code to get in (concreteplayground.com). Its creative ownership (a marketing agency) and strict house rules (no phones, no standing on booths, no whispers) give it a unique, almost speakeasy atmosphere. Its design and exclusivity impressed reviewers; one called it “an exclusive haven for creatives” with “plush booths” and instructed visitors to keep phones off (wanderlog.com) (concreteplayground.com). The focus on crafted cocktails and premium liquors also sets it apart – for example, patrons rave about signature drinks listed on the menu, and the bar even offers each member a private bottle locker. Culturally, it’s become a local word-of-mouth hotspot: travel guides and local lists frequently cite Thursday Bar among Auckland’s most exciting bars (notably, Wanderlog rated it a top-50 Auckland pub (wanderlog.com)). Famed last, its operational quirks – “only open on Thursday nights with a secret door code” and a cloak of discretion – make visiting feel like part of a local insider tradition (concreteplayground.com). In essence, both artists and patrons love it for this underground, creative vibe: a place where ideas and conversations flow as freely as the cocktails.

Visitor Tips and Information

- **Entry Requirements:** Thursday Bar is strictly 18+. You must be on the guest list or a member to enter; there is no public queue. As one report notes, “you need to be invited and know the entry code” (concreteplayground.com). Be prepared to show ID at the door. If you rely on a member to bring you, make sure they’ve added you to their invite list in advance. There is no cover charge for member nights, but tipping is appreciated. - **Dress Code:** Smart casual or cocktail attire is the norm. This is a lounge-bar atmosphere, so sandals or caps may be frowned upon. One tip: wear comfortable shoes – the rule is “no shoes while on booths” (concreteplayground.com), so you might end up sitting when companions dance. - **Phones and Cameras:** Absolutely no phone use or photography once inside. Respect the no-phone rule and have your device tucked away. Avoid bringing bulky camera gear – it’s generally disallowed. - **Accessibility:** The bar is in a basement with stairs to the entrance, so it isn’t wheelchair-friendly. If mobility is a concern, call ahead to discuss the limited access. - **Food and Drink:** Thursday Bar doesn’t offer a full kitchen menu. The bar serves drinks only (beer, wine, mixed drinks). For meals, eat beforehand. If you have special dietary needs, eat nearby, as the bar itself won’t have snacks. - **Arriving:** The venue can get crowded due to its small size. Arrive early (especially before 10pm) on busy nights to secure entry and a good spot. After closing time, most nightlife there winds down; book taxi/Uber as city buses are scarce late. - **What to Bring:** Bring valid ID and your invitation (or membership card, if you have one). Wallet or cards are needed; the bar likely only accepts card payments for drinks. Leave large bags or unnecessary belongings at home – space is tight. - **Nearby Services:** If you need cash, there’s an ATM up the street; note that some Garçons might not accept free alcohol for guests (so no unannounced giveaways). For late-night rides home, popular pick-up points at Symonds & K’ Road are close by. - **Insider Tip:** Mix and mingle at the bar, as many patrons are friendly industry types. And if in doubt, ask the staff for a signature cocktail; they’re known to recommend something adventurous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Thursday Bar located?

Thursday Bar’s address is 224 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010 (www.venuesforhire.co.nz). It’s in the Symonds-Karangahape area of central Auckland, near Karangahape Road. Look for a discreet street-level door marked “Thursday” on Symonds. It shares the building with Schapiro’s sports bar above, so the bar’s entrance is accessed from Symonds Street rather than K’ Road.

What is Thursday Bar known for?

Thursday Bar is known for being an invite-only high-end bar with a speakeasy feel. It opened in 2020 as a members’ lounge, emphasizing secrecy and craft cocktails. The vibe is upscale and creative – for example, a travel article described it as an “exclusive haven for creatives” with plush decor (wanderlog.com) (concreteplayground.com). Its strict entry rules (no phones, secret code) and limited membership make visiting feel like a special insider experience.

How can I become a member or get invited to Thursday Bar?

Membership is free but strictly limited. New members can apply through the official channel (e.g., the venue’s website) and approval is capped—only a couple hundred members are allowed at once (concreteplayground.com). Each member may sponsor one guest. To visit without membership, you must be invited by a current member or get an RSVP invitation to a specific event. Out-of-the-blue walk-ins are not permitted.

Can a non-member attend an event at Thursday Bar?

Non-members can only attend if they are explicitly invited. Typically, if you’re not a member yourself, you need to come as a guest of someone who is on the list. The bar won’t admit random outsiders. In practice, the only ways in are to (a) be sponsored and brought by a current member, or (b) secure an invite via a special event RSVP. Without that, entry is not allowed.

Is an entry code required to get into Thursday Bar?

Yes. According to media coverage, you need to know a secret access code to enter. The owner’s article states that rather than queuing at a door, “you need to be invited and know the entry code” (concreteplayground.com). Along with your invitation, you’ll likely need to quote this code at the door. This ensures only invited members can gain access.

What nights is Thursday Bar open?

By tradition, Thursday Bar opens on Thursday evenings (hence the name). Doors typically open around 8–10pm and the bar stays open very late (often until 2–3am if hosting DJs). Other than Thursdays, the venue can be booked privately; when not in members-only mode, it is not generally open to the public. Always check the latest event announcements—if a special party is arranged on a weekend, it will be advertised to members with time details.

Do I need to buy a ticket or pay a cover charge?

Most Thursday Bar events do not use traditional ticket sales. As a private members’ venue, entry for guests is typically free (covered by the bar itself or the host). When publicized, events are usually RSVP-based rather than paid tickets. For member nights, there’s usually no cover – you just present your invite or code. If it’s a hire event (like a corporate function), the host party arranges any fees centrally. In short, you won’t buy tickets at the door – admission is via invitation only.

What types of events happen here?

Thursday Bar hosts upscale nightlife events: think DJ sets, dance parties and creative mixers rather than sports or karaoke. Common events include electronic music nights (with local or international DJs), cocktail parties, and year-end soirees for creative industries. Sometimes wine tastings or themed gatherings are held. The emphasis is on a fashionable, adult crowd and quality music. Social nights span from chill lounge vibes early on to full-on dance energy later.

Is there a dress code and age limit?

Thursday Bar is strictly 18 and over. You must show ID to enter. There is no formal uniform dress code, but patrons typically wear smart-casual or cocktail attire. It’s a high-end bar, so attire like dress shirts, dresses and nice shoes fit in. Casual clothing is tolerated, but athletic wear or flip-flops would be out of place. If in doubt, dress up a little to match the upscale vibe. The management reserves the right to refuse entry for inappropriate attire.

Are phones or photography allowed inside?

No. The venue has a strict no-phone policy. Staff will instruct guests to keep phones off or out of sight. All photography is forbidden. Media and film crews are not permitted without pre-authorization. This is intended to protect patrons’ privacy and maintain the exclusive atmosphere (concreteplayground.com) (concreteplayground.com). So plan to disconnect and enjoy the event in person without taking pictures.

Is Thursday Bar wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, no. Thursday Bar is located in a basement with steps to the entrance and interior seating. There is no elevator or lift, so it is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility issues will find it difficult to enter or move around. If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to call ahead; otherwise consider another venue, as standard access requirements cannot be accommodated here.

Where can I park near Thursday Bar and what does it cost?

Paid parking is available nearby. The closest easy option is a Wilson Parking lot at 49 Symonds Street, where short-term parking starts at about NZ$5 for 1–2 hours (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). Another lot at 67 Symonds is a couple of blocks away for roughly NZ$7–10 for a few hours. Metered street parking on Symonds or K’ Road is also an option (rates are similar). Also check nearby lots (e.g. Symonds Street car parks) for flat rates. late-night rates may be reduced after hours. Plan to budget around $5–10 for parking per visit.

How can I get to Thursday Bar by public transport?

Several bus routes stop within a short walk. For example, bus 27 (from Onehunga, via Queen St CBD) stops on Symonds Street close by. Routes along Karangahape Rd (e.g. the CityLink 22R/24R) also run to Symonds. If coming by train, the nearest stations are Britomart (from where you’d take a bus or a 25-minute walk) or Mt Eden Station on the Western line (followed by a quick taxi or bus ride downtown). In the coming years, the new Karangahape train station will be steps away. Carpool or rideshare (Uber/taxi) is also common – just input the address and have the driver pull up at Symonds. The area is very central, so it’s only a few minutes’ travel from the main CBD hubs by transit.

Does Thursday Bar serve food or have a restaurant menu?

No – Thursday Bar is primarily a drinks venue. It does not have a kitchen serving meals. You can expect appetizers or nibbles only if an event hire brings in external catering. In general, plan to eat before you go. For a meal, nearby restaurants on Karangahape Road or Symonds (just a short walk away) offer dinner before the show. Otherwise, Thursday Bar itself only offers a full bar menu of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer.

Can I book Thursday Bar for a private function?

Yes, Thursday Bar is available for private hire for parties, corporate events or functions. It holds 10–60 people comfortably (www.sharedspace.co.nz). You would need to contact the venue management directly (via the official site or provided event form) to arrange a booking. Expect to pay a flat hire fee – listings have noted about NZ$1000 per day (www.sharedspace.co.nz) for private events, plus any minimum spend on drinks. The staff will work with you on catering and equipment. Because it’s a niche space, book well in advance to secure dates.

How is the seating arranged inside

Inside Thursday Bar, seating is informal. Plush booths and leather sofas line the walls in small groupings. There is no fixed stage or assigned tables. On busy nights, people often mingle standing at high tables or by the bar counter. Sightlines are generally open, so sitting in any booth still gives a view of the DJ area. The sound system is dispersed, so even seated guests can hear music clearly. In short, there is no reserved seating – it’s first-come seating on a lounge/cocktail bar floorplan.

What hotels are nearby Thursday Bar?

Several hotels are within walking distance. The nearest large hotel is the Cordis Auckland on Symonds Street, just a block away. Other central hotels include the Grand Millennium (a 10–15 min walk via Wellesley Street), and the Pullman/SwissÃ39 hotels near Victoria Street. The market has smaller chain and boutique hotels around K’Road and the University area, too. All these are roughly 5–10 minutes on foot, making a quick late-night return possible. For budget stays, motels on Symonds or Queen Street are also nearby.

What restaurants or bars are close to Thursday Bar?

K’Road is famed for dining, and many eateries are steps away. Within a few minutes walk you’ll find Thai and Vietnamese eateries, Mexican cantinas, sushi bars and modern bistros – for example, casual burger and pizza places or Vietnamese pho shops on Karangahape Road. There are also cocktail lounges and craft breweries a block over (e.g. brewpubs on K’Road). Across the street is Schapiro’s Sports Bar (good for pub food before events). Basically, the area has a mix of Asian street-food joints and trendy bars, so going for dinner or pre-drinks around the corner is easy.

Can I walk in or do I need a reservation/invitation?

You cannot simply walk in. Thursday Bar is not open to the general public without a prior invitation or booking. Always come with a confirmed RSVP or membership. If you show up unannounced, you will be turned away – there is no traditional entrance queue. On a Thursday night, arriving without being on an approved list will not grant entry. To avoid disappointment, ensure you have a confirmed invitation (e.g. “name listed on the door”) before heading there.