About Whammy Bar
Whammy Bar is a basement live-music dive venue tucked into St Kevin’s Arcade on Karangahape Road (K Road) in central Auckland. Opened in the late 2000s by clubowner Rohan Evans (also of the nearby Wine Cellar), it quickly became one of the city’s most respected indie rock/punk stages. With its dim, grungy décor and low ceiling, Whammy Bar is famed for its raw, intimate vibe – audiences and bands mingle inches apart on a narrow stage with a thick support pole through it. The main room is standing-room only (capacity originally under 300), though a handful of high benches and booth seats line the back wall for a breather during shows. In 2024 Whammy expanded by merging its former backroom and wine-cellar areas into an enlarged space called “Double Whammy”, boosting capacity to roughly 400–500. The original Whammy Bar room remains in continuous use for late-night gigs. What makes Whammy notable is its legendary sound quality (Paul Winstanley helped train the owner in live audio) and its role as an underground incubator – the “best gig venue in Auckland” according to fans. It has stage lights, a giant disco ball, and even a pulley system to send beers from the crowd up to thirsty performers during gigs.
Events and Programming
Whammy Bar hosts live music most nights of the week, with a packed schedule of concerts and club nights. You’ll find everything from local indie rock, punk and hardcore bands to noise-rockers, metal, and post-punk, alongside electronic and techno DJ sets. The venue also books touring acts from New Zealand and abroad – recent examples include North Carolina noise-rockers (Wednesday) and high-energy state-side punk. Recurring staples include alternative dance parties and themed nights (like Bowie tribute or vinyl-only DJ raves), as well as one-off festivals and charity shows. Each year Whammy used to host “Whammyfest” – a multi-band Halloween showcase – and it regularly participates in city-wide festivals. Special events have included an annual pre-Christmas showcase with local bands (often with 95bFM promotions) and benefit gigs. Shows typically start late (around 9pm or later) and run into the early hours. Ticket prices vary: small local shows often cost $10–20, while bigger touring acts or all-night dance events can be $30–50. Door sales are common for smaller gigs, but bigger shows usually offer tickets online or via local concert sites in advance.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Whammy events are generally sold through promoter outlets or online ticketing services (via sites like Eventfinda or local promoters), rather than a traditional box office. For high-demand shows it’s wise to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale – sign up for venue or promoter newsletters and follow Whammy Bar on social media for announcements. Some concerts also sell tickets at the door, space permitting, so arriving early can sometimes let you purchase any remaining tickets on site. There is no dedicated box-office office at Whammy – hour-of-show entry usually serves as the will-call, so bring photo ID to pick up advanced tickets at the door. Popular shows often sell out, especially on weekends, so plan ahead. Ticket prices follow typical ranges for Auckland gigs (often tiered as earlybird vs. standard prices) and are usually AUD/NZD-based. In rare cases, guest-list or door-share promotions (like donating food for charity) may let you get in for a reduced fee.
Seating and Layout
Whammy Bar is essentially one large rectangular room facing the stage – it is not a seated theatre. Virtually all floor space is general admission standing. There are no fixed seats, but along the back wall you’ll find a few bench-style booths and high tables where people can perch with a drink. These booth areas are popular for a quick rest, and fans often praise the cosy seating at the rear of the bar for a more relaxed view. Up to 5–6 band members can comfortably fit on the main stage (higher-capacity “Double Whammy” events use a much larger combined stage). Note that a support pole stands stage-left, which can slightly block side sightlines. The venue has multiple sound monitors facing the crowd. For the best experience, serious fans stand as close to center stage as possible, but if you prefer some breathing room you can move off to the sides or hang back near the booths. Avoid crowding under the large spotlights or right behind tall speakers if you want an unobstructed view. Some events make use of a second smaller “Circle Room” stage at the back (especially during multi-artist lineups), giving two acting stages in the bar, but there is no separate balcony or gallery – the experience is floor-level throughout.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Whammy Bar is located at 183 Karangahape Road in Auckland’s CBD (in the historic St Kevin’s Arcade). The entrance is on Karangahape Road just before Myers Park and Victoria St – look for a small doorway next to Albert Hu Watches leading down a stairwell. There are no street signs for Whammy on K Road, so know the street number or St Kevin’s Arcade landmark.Public Transit: Karangahape Road is a major thoroughfare with frequent bus services to the city centre. Routes such as the InnerLink and numbers like 30 and 295 stop right on K Road near Victoria/Queen St (a minute or two’s walk from the venue) . These run into the early morning (buses typically operate 6am–3am on Karangahape Road) . The closest train stations are Mt Eden (~20 minutes’ walk) and Grafton (~15 minutes’ walk) . Auckland’s local AT public transport planner or Google Maps can suggest exact combinations, but from the downtown city train stations (Britomart or Mt Eden), it’s often easiest to transfer to a K Road bus for the last few blocks.Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot for Whammy. Metered street parking on Karangahape Road is available ($4.50/hr standard rate) . If you don’t mind a short walk, there are several pay car parks nearby: the Auckland Transport building at 20 Upper Queen St is about a 5-minute walk ($4/hr and $6/hr after two hours) , and Wilson’s car parks on nearby Liverpool or Mercury Lane charge around $8–$10 per hour . As with any CBD area, spaces are limited in evenings, so plan to arrive early if driving. Many patrons find it easier to use public transit or a rideshare.Rideshare/Drop-off: A convenient drop-off point for taxis or Ubers is at the Karangahape Road entrance of St Kevin’s Arcade, right above the Whammy stairwell (on Karangahape Rd between Mayoral Dr and Mercury Ln). Be prepared for a short set of steps down to the venue. Because the sidewalk is narrow, cars may need to stop in the road; expect to leave enough time to maneuver safely. We recommend using a drop-off on K Road rather than trying to drive into the smaller streets of Newton/Spencer St.
Inside the Venue
Inside Whammy Bar you’ll step down into a dark, gritty club atmosphere. The main room has black-painted walls plastered with band posters and graffiti; the lighting is low except for the bright stage lights and sometimes a swinging disco ball. Entry is through the bar area – you’ll typically queue up by the front bar, show your digital or printed ticket and photo ID, and then move in. Security is friendly but firm: metal detectors are rare, though staff will check bags for contraband if anything looks suspicious. The long wooden bar runs along one side, offering craft beers and spirits; expect a decent selection of local beers on tap, plus cocktails and soft drinks. There is no kitchen, so food options inside are minimal (perhaps some packaged snacks or cheese platters at special events). Restrooms (toilets) are on-site – a few modest unisex cubicles near the back. Note that beer and drinks must be purchased at the bar; Whammy has a strict policy against outside food or beverages.
Nearby Amenities
Whammy Bar sits in the heart of K Road’s entertainment district. If you want dinner or a pre-show bite, the arcade itself (St Kevin’s Arcade) has a great lineup of eateries: the Lebanese kitchen Gemmayze St, upscale bistro Lowbrow, Mediterranean tapas bar Sagrado Cantina, pizza at Sal’s, quick bites at Evan’s Kebabs, plus hip cafes like Bestie and The White Lady (all within 50 metres of Whammy) . For a sit-down dinner on Karangahape Road itself, nearby options include Mexican, Indian and ramen restaurants a short stroll away. Drinks are plentiful in the area – K Road has many bars and pubs (the Vic, Imperial, City Works Depot, Flashback Cafe, etc.) where you can grab a pre-show beer or cocktail.
What Makes This Venue Special
Whammy Bar’s claim to fame is its authentic underground spirit. It is often described as “dark, grungy and intimate” – a true dive bar where both emerging bands and established names love to play. There’s a legendary, aural-in person loudness and closeness to the music that you rarely get at larger venues. The concrete and brick of St Kevin’s Arcade give Whammy extra cachet; it’s an old Art Deco arcade, and the basement setting feels like a secret lair for music fans. Unique features include the classic long wooden bar (spanning half the space), retro carpets on the stage platform, and the uncanny pulley-and-basket system they’ve installed – when bands need a beer, a rope pulley can send up a drink from the crowd to the stage! Over the years, Whammy’s been the site of many memorable shows: local legends like The Bats, Graeme Jefferies and modern heroes like Dick Move and Hans Pucket have all played there, as have international acts (for example, Brooklyn psych band Wooden Shjips and others). Its owner’s ties to the DIY scene mean Whammy has always championed new talent, hosting pioneering festivals (like the Borderline Festival) and late-night experimental nights. In short, artists and audiences adore Whammy for its unmatched vibe – it’s the type of place where your shirt pockets are glued shut by sweat and you leave with ringing ears, a big grin, and a feeling you’ve been part of something raw and real.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & entry: Remember this is an 18+ bar. You must present valid photo ID at the door (passport or New Zealand driver’s licence) to get in. Under-18s are not permitted even if with parents. What to bring: Travel light. The venue is small and busy: large backpacks or tripods aren’t practical. A small bag is fine (though security may check very large bags). Dress casually and comfortably – it will get hot once the crowd packs in, and bouncing around in socks or sandals isn’t ideal. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for moshing. Many people bring earplugs if they want to protect their hearing during very loud sets. Food & drink: You can’t bring outside food or drink in. The bar has a full liquor licence, so alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits, cocktails) and soft drinks are available for purchase. Drink prices are reasonable for a city centre bar, but plan to budget if you’ll want a few rounds. If you expect hunger, eat beforehand at one of the nearby restaurants or kiosks. Conduct: Whammy promotes respectful behaviour. Aggressive conduct or foul play will get you removed. The mood is normally friendly – if you’re up front you might encounter a gentle mosh pit (often encouraged by the band), but it’s not meant to be violent. In our experience, people look out for each other. Feel free to enjoy the show, dance, clap and cheer, but be mindful of others. Arrival tips: Aim to arrive early for popular shows – an opening or headliner set can draw a line outside. Getting in sooner means fewer neck craning or jostling later. If you do arrive later, expect to be further back in the room. Once inside, note where the exits and restrooms are. Bathroom lines can be long at peak times (especially during shorter clubs sets), so use them when they’re free early on. Photography: Non-flash phone snaps are usually fine, but avoid blocking others with a camera. Professional cameras or video recording may be disallowed at some gigs – always check with staff or signage. Flash is generally frowned upon during live sets. Connectivity: Don’t count on Wi-Fi or strong cell signal. It’s best to arrange meeting up with friends before entering. If you need to call a ride at the end of the night, try your porch or step outside first.
Where can I buy tickets for Whammy Bar events?
Tickets are sold through event promoters and online/music-platforms rather than an on-site box office. Check local listings or Whammy’s social media for links. Smaller gigs often allow door sales (cash or card on the night), but popular shows usually sell out in advance. It’s best to buy early from official channels.
How much do tickets to shows typically cost?
Prices vary by event: local band nights are usually around NZ$10–25, while touring acts or special events can be NZ$30–50 or more. Some events have tiered pricing (earlybird vs standard or concession rates). Charity or themed shows (like holiday gigs) may have special rates. Fees or donations (e.g. canned food) can also apply.
Are there presale tickets for Whammy Bar concerts?
Yes. For high-demand or big-name shows, promoters often offer presales. These are usually announced on Whammy Bar’s or the band’s pages in advance (sometimes requiring a sign-up or code). Taking advantage of presales and tickets as soon as they’re announced is recommended to secure a spot, as Whammy gigs can sell out quickly.
Is there a box office or will-call at Whammy Bar?
There’s no traditional box office office. Will-call upon entry handles advance tickets – when you arrive, staff will scan or check your advance-purchased tickets at the door. Some events allow pay-at-door sales until capacity is reached. Always bring ID since you’ll need it to collect advanced tickets or take advantage of any concessions.
What is the address for Whammy Bar?
Whammy Bar’s address is 183 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD. It’s located inside St Kevin’s Arcade on K’Road (downstairs). The entrance is a stairway just next to Albert Hu Watches in the arcade – look for a narrow doorway and stairs going down from street level.
How can I get to Whammy Bar by public transport?
Many buses run along Karangahape Road. For example, the inner-city CircleLink and routes like the 30 and 295 stop on K’Road within a block of St Kevin’s Arcade. These are frequent during peak hours and run until late at night. The nearest train stations are Grafton and Mt Eden (each ~15–20 min walk away). On weekends or off-hours, buses to the Britomart/Downtown area or rideshares are best options.
Is there parking near Whammy Bar?
There’s no venue parking lot. You can meter-park on Karangahape Rd ($4.50 NZD/hr as per AT rates) for limited time . Nearby paid lots include the AT building (20 Upper Queen St) and several Wilson’s carparks (e.g. on Cross St or Mercury Lane) charging roughly $8–10/hr . Because parking is tight in downtown Auckland, many visitors prefer public transport or taxis to avoid the hassle.
Where can ride-share or taxis drop off near Whammy Bar?
Ask your driver to drop you on Karangahape Road at the St Kevin’s Arcade entrance. This is the stairway that leads down to Whammy Bar. It’s a quick step from the sidewalk to the entry stairs. Be aware K’Road is busy, so the driver may have to stop in the traffic lane briefly. For the safest drop-off, call “Whammy Bar in St Kevin’s Arcade” on K’Road, between Myers Park and Victoria St.
Are the shows at Whammy Bar seated or standing?
Whammy Bar is primarily standing-room general admission. There are no reserved seats in front of the stage. Along the back wall there are a few benches and booth tables where you can sit or lean if you want to rest while watching. Most patrons stand by the stage during performances. If you prefer to sit, aim for the wooden booths or high tables at the rear when you arrive, but be aware space is limited.
Does Whammy Bar have multiple stages or a balcony?
Whammy Bar’s layout is primarily one open floor area with a main stage at one end. In practice, it often splits into two performance areas during bigger events: the main front stage and a rear “Circle Room” stage. However, there are no elevated balconies – the audience stands all on the same level. When Double Whammy opened in 2024, the original Whammy bar remains as the intimate stage room, while the adjoining backroom and wine cellar stages now form a larger combined venue behind it .
What are the best places to stand or sit at Whammy Bar?
For the fullest experience, many fans stand as close to the front middle as possible – up against the stage barrier or speakers. This is great for dancing and moshing (note crowds can get intense; one reviewer even said a circle pit formed after a signal from the singer ). If you prefer to watch more calmly, move to the sides or the rear booths: the wooden benches at the back wall offer a seat and decent sightlines without the crush. Just watch out for the support pole at stage left which can slightly block the view from that side. Overall, front-central is loud and energetic; back corners are quieter.
What is Whammy Bar's age policy?
Whammy Bar is strictly 18+ in compliance with New Zealand liquor licensing laws . No one under 18 is admitted, even with a parent. You must bring valid government-issued photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s licence) to prove your age. The venue enforces this at the door without exceptions. (There is no official “under-18 mode” – if you’re underage, you’ll have to catch a different daytime show elsewhere.)
Are flash photography or filming allowed?
It depends on the show. Casual snaps with your phone or a point-and-shoot camera are generally tolerated if unintrusive (no flash). However, many performers and promoters at Whammy request no flash photography or video recording during live sets, so always check with staff if it’s permitted. If a band specifically bans cameras, signs will be posted. As a rule, flash is discouraged since it can distract musicians and other audience members.
What is the dress code or bag policy?
There’s no formal dress code – casual is fine. Many people wear T-shirts, jeans and comfortable shoes. As for bags, carry-on only: bulky backpacks or suitcases are discouraged. If you bring a large bag, security may ask you to check or leave it outside (often they simply stack coats and bags at the side during shows). In any case, keep your belongings secure in the crowd and avoid anything you can’t easily carry for a few hours.
What food and drinks are available inside?
Inside Whammy Bar there’s a full bar serving beer, ciders, spirits, wine and mixed drinks, along with non-alcoholic sodas. They often stock local craft beers on tap. Food offerings are minimal – you won’t find a restaurant kitchen, only basic bar snacks or occasional share-plates during special events. Most people grab dinner beforehand at nearby restaurants. You must buy drinks at the Whammy bar; outside food or beverages are not allowed.
Are restrooms, coat checks, or Wi-Fi available?
Whammy Bar has restrooms (simple toilets) on site for patrons, usually one room for each gender or unisex stalls. There’s no official coat-check desk, but for busy nights staff or volunteers may hang coats by the bar or entry. Do not expect public Wi-Fi or charging stations – this is an underground club. If you need data service, turn off Wi-Fi on your phone or step outside into the arcade for signal.
Does Whammy Bar have wheelchair or accessibility features?
Accessibility at Whammy Bar is limited, since it’s in a basement with a flight of stairs down to the entrance. There is no elevator. Wheelchair users and those with mobility issues should contact the venue in advance to discuss accommodation options. The management can advise on whether it’s feasible (e.g. a Waterloo session or alternate arrangement), but generally the direct access is not wheelchair-friendly.
What is the capacity of Whammy Bar (and Double Whammy)?
The original Whammy Bar room is relatively small (a couple of hundred people max). After the 2024 renovation, the combined “Double Whammy” spaces (merging Whammy’s backroom and Wine Cellar) can hold around 400–500 people . So larger events move into the combined space, while normal shows in the OG Whammy room remain very intimate. Always check each event’s listing: sold-out announcements roughly reflect the capacity of the space being used.
Is Whammy Bar indoor-only or does it have an outdoor area?
Whammy Bar is entirely indoors – a basement venue. All performances and bars are inside St Kevin’s Arcade. There is a small open courtyard area (the arcade stairwell and alley by Myers Park) used only for smoking, but no outdoor stage or seating. Weather won’t affect the shows themselves, but it can get chilly or drizzly walking to the entrance, so plan accordingly.
How early should I arrive for a show?
For popular shows, it’s smart to arrive when doors open (often an hour before the headliner) to get a good spot. Even if you don’t need front-row access, early arrival avoids long queues at the bar and restrooms. If the gig is billed at 9pm, work back 30–60 minutes: you might find lines forming before indoor doors open. In short, get there 30+ minutes early on busy nights. Late arrivals risk standing at the back or even having turned-away tickets if the venue is full.
What music genres do venues at Whammy Bar feature?
Whammy Bar is known for alternative and underground acts. You’ll hear a lot of indie rock, punk, hard rock, metal, post-punk and art rock. Electronic and club genres also appear (techno nights, DJ sets). The venue supports experimental and folk genres too, but heavy music is a staple. Essentially, if it’s “alternative” or off the beaten path, it’s a likely fit for Whammy’s programming.
How do I find upcoming Whammy Bar shows and events?
The venue itself posts events on its Facebook page (search “Whammy Bar, Auckland”) and on St Kevin’s Arcade social feeds. Also follow local concert promoters and music blogs – they often list gigs at Whammy. Local event sites (like Gig Guides or UnderTheRadar) list Whammy Bar’s upcoming events too. In short, watch the live-music listings for Auckland or Whammy’s own pages. Posters and flyers on K’Road often advertise shows weeks in advance as well.
What is “Double Whammy”?
“Double Whammy” refers to the expanded venue that opened in August 2024. By knocking down walls between the old Whammy backroom and the Wine Cellar basement, the owners created one large music space under the Whammy name. It seats on K Road’s St Kevin’s Arcade (same address) and can hold roughly 400–500 people . Think of it as Whammy Bar’s larger sister venue – they host bigger concerts and festivals there, while the original Whammy room remains available for smaller, late-night gigs.
Which notable bands or events have been at Whammy Bar?
Over the years Whammy Bar has featured many well-known names in NZ music. Legendary Flying Nun acts like The Bats and The Clean have played there, as have cult favourites (The Mint Chicks, Street Chant, Graeme Jefferies). International acts have included experimental and garage bands like Wooden Shjips, Deerhoof, and noise artists too. The venue also hosts its own local festivals – for example the long-running Whammyfest (multi-band Halloween nights) – and often has themed nights in collaboration with promoters (like the 95bFM Xmas Party). Its legacy in Auckland’s music scene is well cemented.
