About Woodside Bar Kitchen Functions
Woodside Bar, Dining and Functions is a large community-owned gastropub and events venue in Manukau City Centre (South Auckland) . Purpose-built in 2018 by the Wiri Licensing Trust, it blends modern Kiwi style with nods to the area’s rural ‘Woodside’ heritage . The trust proudly calls it “Manukau’s favourite modern Kiwi bar and restaurant” , emphasising its down-to-earth vibe and diverse local crowd. The venue spans two floors: a ground-level restaurant and bar, plus an upstairs Function Room with its own bar, screens and sound system . A covered outdoor conservatory area expands the space for events. In total it can accommodate roughly 80–90 people seated in the Function Room and up to about 120 in the full conservatory . Woodside is known for casual atmosphere – friendly service, Kiwi-inspired décor, and household musical entertainment – making it a standout meet-up spot in South Auckland .
Events and Programming
Woodside hosts a regular mix of social events and live entertainment. Trivia and theme nights are popular – for example, a weekly Quiz Night runs every Tuesday evening (typically 7–9pm) . Weekends feature live music: the venue advertises “LIVE every Friday night from 6pm to 9pm,” showcasing a range of New Zealand talents . Acts often include local singer-songwriters and bands (e.g. Richard Murray frequently performs) . Special events such as karaoke finals, holiday parties or family-fun days also occur (for example, Woodside’s seventh-birthday celebration included giveaways, kids’ activities and a live concert by Element) . Aside from theme nights (like speed-dating or dance parties), these events generally have no cover charge – guests simply reserve a table or walk in and pay for food/drinks. When the venue is hired privately, promotions or tickets are arranged through the hosts (most public events listed on Woodside’s site are free entry with table booking recommended ).
Tickets and Booking
Woodside is primarily a dining venue, not a traditional theatre, so most events do not require advance tickets. For regular live nights (music, trivia, etc.), patrons can simply book a table through the venue’s online system or arrive early on busy nights . The website’s event calendar provides details of upcoming acts; if a special performance ever requires a ticket or RSVP, that will be announced separately. Otherwise there is no formal box office – entry is typically free and on a first-come basis, and guests pay as they dine. For private functions (birthdays, corporate events, weddings), Woodside offers dedicated spaces with hire fees. For example, the upstairs Function Room is free to hire Sun–Thu (Fri/Sat $350), while the half-cover conservatory is $350 (full conservatory $700, 80-guest minimum) . Bookings include table setup and use of the room’s inbuilt AV and bar facilities . Customers secure event dates by submitting an enquiry form on Woodside’s site (the Function & Events Manager will then confirm arrangements) . In short, casual guests rarely buy tickets – they just reserve a table – whereas private groups liaise with staff to book spaces and catering.
Seating and Layout
The ground floor is arranged as an open-plan dining room with a central bar and multiple flat-screen TVs. Furnishings (e.g. Jean Prouvé-style chairs and communal tables ) give a modern gastropub feel. An adjoining glass-lined conservatory provides indoor-outdoor dining for about 60–80 guests seated, plus standing room for around 80 more . A small uncovered “green area” lies at the front (often used by diners and smokers) . Upstairs, the private Function Room (lift-accessible) seats up to 80 or 90 people around tables – it has its own bar, projection screens and a professional sound system . There are no reserved VIP sections; upstairs is usually booked as a whole for private groups, while downstairs seating is first-come. For concerts or DJs, best views are near the conservatory or bar area (the high-quality PA and multi-speaker setup ensures good sound throughout). The casual seating means guests can spread out: families often sit by the windows in the conservatory, sport fans near the TVs, and live-music audiences gathered centrally. Note that the open “green area” in front of the stage is not weatherproof and isn’t available for private hire , so watching bands is usually done from under cover inside or on the conservatory patio.
Getting There and Parking
Woodside Bar Kitchen is located at 3 Ronwood Avenue, Manukau City Centre, on the corner of Great South Road . Drivers can reach it via Great South Road or via Davies and Putney streets. Paid parking is readily available nearby: Auckland Transport operates the Ronwood Avenue multi-storey car park (2 Davies Ave) with rates from about $3.50/hour , and also open-air lots on Station Road within a few blocks . Street parking on Ronwood, Putney or Davies is metered (pay-by-plate) during business hours. Rideshare/drop-offs can use the Ronwood frontage or adjacent streets. Public transport is convenient: Manukau’s bus and train interchange (Manukau Station) is an easy walk (roughly 600–800m). High-frequency AT buses from Auckland CBD, Botany, Auckland Airport (e.g. route 380) and other suburbs stop at Manukau Transport Centre. The Southern and Eastern train lines also run to Manukau Station (with frequent services to Britomart via Ōtāhuhu). Bus routes from the Eastern suburbs (Botany, Flat Bush) were specifically extended to Manukau, making Woodside reachable by several south-Auckland bus lines . In summary, the venue is well-connected: use nearby clean station car parks if driving, or take the train/bus to Manukau and walk a few blocks south on Davies to Ronwood Ave.
Inside the Venue
On entry you’ll find a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with lively decor and courteous staff. Security is minimal – for most evenings you can simply walk in (though ID checks are standard after 8 pm for alcohol service). The main bar area is stocked with a broad selection of local and international beers, ciders, wines and signature cocktails (notably their famous “cocktail towers” for sharing ). The kitchen serves its full menu from lunchtime (around 11:30 am) through dinner (closing around 9 pm) . After about 8:30 pm a smaller “bar snack” menu kicks in (e.g. garlic cauliflower bites, loaded fries) for latecomers. Restrooms are located on each level, with at least one all-gender accessible toilet on the ground floor . Free Wi-Fi covers the building for patrons’ use . The house music or background playlists change from day to night, and during live shows the in-house PA handles bands and DJs smoothly . Coat racks allow dropping off jackets; there is no formal cloakroom. If attending a private event upstairs, expect a lift directly to the function suite (also making the space fully wheelchair accessible ). In short, insiders say Woodside feels like “a real Kiwi heartland pub” – warm and lively, without pretension, and with a dependable staff (on good nights the bartenders even set up a full cocktail tower at the bar!).
Nearby Amenities
While not essential, many visitors like to arrive early or linger late at nearby establishments. Directly next door is the Light House Cinema (an independent movie theatre and café) – a perfect pre-show stop for coffee or light bites. One block east is the Westfield Manukau mall, offering a food court, cafés (e.g. Melba Cafe at 1 Ronwood Ave), and chain restaurants if you want a larger dinner before a show. Across Great South Road is Our Local Wiri (another Wiri Trust pub) which screens sports and also has live music . On Putney Way and surrounding streets there are additional bars, takeaways and bistros (Asian, Mediterranean, etc.), or fast-food options if you’re in a rush. For accommodation, the Novotel Auckland Manukau (on Davies Ave) is a five-minute walk north and often recommended by event organisers; an Ibis hotel and a Sudima Suites are also nearby. Late-night buses run throughout the area, and taxis or ride-shares are easy to catch outside Westfield Manukau (about 2–3 blocks away). In summary, Woodside is embedded in Manukau’s city centre: shopping, parking, hotels and entertainment are all within easy walking distance, enhancing its convenience for events.
What Makes Woodside Bar Kitchen Functions Special
Woodside stands out for its blend of community spirit, design and entertainment. It is owned by the Wiri Licensing Trust and operated for the benefit of local residents, making it more than a restaurant – a true community hub . The design intentionally nods to its past: for example, promotional materials describe the grand double-height conservatory and wood accents as “tipping a hat to the area’s rural Woodside past” . Woodside’s attraction is also codified in awards – it appears in national Top 50 gastropub lists. One judge praised “our outdoor area with its space and staging” and pointed out the venue’s signature “cocktail towers” and Pacific/European fusion menu . Local lore adds to the mystique: the very site was South Auckland’s first Wiri Trust Hotel (opened 1974) and older Manukau residents remember its incarnations (Manukau Arms, Parrot Bar, etc) as a social centre . Today it proudly upholds that heritage – with one weekend scene or birthday party drawing live bands and DJs that keep Manukau dancing. Frequent flyer crowds note traders’ fondness for the snacking (many sing Woodside’s BBQ ribs and burgers as “the best ever” ) and its friendly vibe (“down to earth, real Kiwi heart” in trust headquarters’ words ). Artists also appreciate Woodside: the upstairs tech setup can stream any band’s content to its 16 TVs , and the top-quality speaker system means even small gigs pack a punch. All these factors – local ownership, Kiwi authenticity, smart tech, and a spacious indoor/outdoor layout – combine to give Woodside its unique character and cult following.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is fully wheelchair-accessible. There is a ramp and elevator to the upstairs function room, and an accessible toilet on the ground floor . Staff are generally happy to assist with any special needs.What to bring: For ID, carry photo ID if you plan to order alcohol (the legal drinking age in NZ is 18). The dress code is very casual (jeans and shirts are fine). There’s no coat check, just coat racks near the entrance. Mobile charging is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available throughout .Timing: Woodside usually opens by 11:30 am (for lunch) and serves meals until about 9 pm , with last drinks around 9:30. On event nights it’s wise to arrive early: Friday bands start at 6 pm and tables can fill up. Tuesday quiz nights begin around 7 pm, so booking a table in advance is a good idea . There is no formal ticket line, so booking a table is essentially your reservation.Family-friendly: Woodside welcomes children, especially for early dinners. There’s a kids’ menu (for under-12s, $16 meal box) with simple options like fish & chips or pizza, all served with fries and salad . For large family events, the staff can often provide activity packs or space for children's games (they even ran kids’ activities during the venue’s birthday week ). Minors must, however, be supervised and are usually expected to leave by around 9 pm in accordance with license rules.Parking: If driving, allow a few extra minutes for parking. The nearest lot is the Ronwood Avenue AT building (2 Davies Ave, about $3.50/hr) . Pay-and-display street parking is active on Ronwood/Putney/Davies during the day, and can become busy after 5 pm (metered). If taking public transit, Manukau Station is a 10-minute walk away, with plenty of buses running late into the evening. (Tip: buses to/from nearby airports stop at Manukau Mall.)Food and drink: The menu is extensive – expect hearty Kiwi pub fare around $25–45 for mains. Professionals rave about signature items like the 500g BBQ rib plate ($39) . Cocktails are a highlight (try the tower!), as are local beer taps. Late-night bar snacks are available after 8:30 pm . Tipping is not required but appreciated.Entertainment: Friday nights are lively, so you might find live band sound at full volume. If you prefer a quieter table, try sitting near the back of the conservatory or beside the bar for a balance. Smoking is allowed only in the outdoor area by the entrance . The venue is generally very safe and family-oriented; patrons mention that it “feels like everyone knows everyone”.What not to bring: Outside food and alcohol are not permitted. Large bags may be checked at the door during big events, as with similar venues. No formal coat storage is offered beyond the racks. Photography for social media is fine, but professional filming should be cleared with staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets for events at Woodside Bar Kitchen?
Most Woodside events—including weekly live music and quiz nights—do not require pre-purchased tickets. They are free to attend, and you can usually just book a table via the venue’s site or show up and pay when you dine. If a special event ever requires tickets, the venue or promoter will announce that separately. Otherwise there is no cover charge for regular entertainment nights.
How can I reserve a table or book Woodside for a private function?
To reserve for dining or small parties, simply use Woodside’s online booking form or call the venue. For large private events (birthdays, corporate, weddings), you fill in the enquiry form on their site. The Function Room upstairs seats up to ~80 (free hire Sun–Thu, $350 on weekends) and the conservatory can hold up to 120 (fees $350–700 depending on size) . After submitting your request, the events manager will confirm the date and details. Generally, paying your bill at the event covers admission for those nights – no separate ticket purchase is needed.
How many people can Woodside host?
Woodside has several areas: the upstairs Function Room fits about 80 seated (90 standing) and is ideal for mid-sized events . The adjoining conservatory (indoor-outdoor) seats ~60 (up to 80 for cocktail style), and the full conservatory space can handle around 120 guests . The ground-floor dining room accommodates more people in total, but for exclusive hires you’d need around 150+ guests (the venue’s policy is that full venue hire is only allowed for groups over 150 ). In practical terms, expect to comfortably fit 150–200 people across all areas during a busy event.
Where should I park and how much is it?
The closest parking is the AT-run Ronwood Avenue car park at 2 Davies Avenue, just around the corner . This multi-storey lot charges about $3.50 per hour. Other nearby options include AT Station Road open-air lots and street parking on Ronwood, Putney or Davies (metered during the day) . Note: after typical shopping hours some on-street spots may become free or cheaper. Rideshare drop-offs can be at the Ronwood entrance. For park-and-ride commuters, free train parking is available at nearby stations if you take the train (Manukau is on the Southern/Eastern lines, as noted below).
Is Woodside Bar & Kitchen wheelchair accessible?
Yes – Woodside is designed to be accessible. There is a lift to the upstairs Function Room and ramp access to the ground floor . At least one toilet is wheelchair-accessible . Tables and bar areas on the main floor are wheelchair-friendly. If you have specific accessibility needs, you can mention them when booking and the staff will do their best to accommodate you.
Are children allowed at Woodside, and is there a kids’ menu?
Yes, families are welcome to Woodside, especially during daytime and early evening. The menu includes a dedicated kids’ section – a $16 “Kids Meal Box” (for ages 12 and under) with choices like cheeseburger, fish & chips or pizza, plus fries and salad . High chairs are available. Keep in mind that after about 9 pm the venue becomes more adult-oriented (noise levels rise and staff will check IDs), so most children leave by then. Overall, kids can come to early shows and meals, but must be supervised at all times.
What are the typical food and drink prices at Woodside?
Woodside’s menu is similar to a Kiwi pub or gastropub. Expect main dishes roughly NZ$25–45. For example, fish & chips or chicken mains are in the low-$30s ; steaks and lamb are in the high-$30s. 500g spare ribs are about $39 (1kg for $50) . Share plates (like the Fisherman’s Platter for $90 ) are available for large groups. Burgers are around $30 each . Drinks (beers, wines, spirits) typically run NZ$9–15 per serving. The kids’ meals are $16 each . Overall it’s in line with mid-range Auckland dining – good value for South Auckland, reflecting generous portions and local ingredients.
What are Woodside’s opening and closing hours?
Woodside generally opens by 11:30 am and continues service through dinner. According to the venue’s info, its dining and bar hours run roughly 11:30 am–9:30 pm daily (kitchen closes around 9:00–9:30 pm). Live entertainment usually starts early (e.g. Friday bands at 6 pm) so expect to find people dining in the early evening. Note that on league nights or events the bar may stay open a bit later, but 9:30 pm is a safe end-of-service time. It’s best not to arrive too close to closing, as kitchen service ends sooner than bar closing.
Is there a dress code or ID requirement at Woodside?
There is no formal dress code at Woodside – casual attire is fine. Many customers wear jeans, T-shirts, shorts or sundresses. If you plan to drink alcohol, be prepared to show photo ID (e.g. driver’s license or passport) if asked; this is standard NZ law for anyone who appears under 25. Also, skirts or singlets are allowed but avoid wearing upset team gear – keep it respectful and neat for a family-friendly vibe. In summary, just dress comfortably and bring ID for the bar.
Can I smoke at Woodside?
Smoking is only allowed in the outdoor area. Woodside has a partly enclosed "green area" outside the front entrance which serves as the designated smoking/dining space . You cannot smoke inside. This outdoor seating is also used by walk-in diners who prefer fresh air. If you need to smoke, simply step into that area (outside of main roof cover). Ettquets: please use the ash trays provided and be considerate of others.
Does Woodside offer Wi-Fi for customers?
Yes. Woodside has high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the building . This was part of their tech setup plan. So you can browse or work on your device while enjoying a meal or waiting for a show. The network is typically free and should be accessible with staff-provided instructions (if any). Connectivity is usually reliable in both the bar and the function spaces.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into Woodside?
No – outside food or alcohol is not permitted. Woodside is a licensed venue, so all drinks and meals should be purchased on site. If you’re attending a private event, the package usually includes catering. For general customers, the bar has an extensive menu, and staff will politely decline any outside beverages or contest. You are welcome to bring personal items like water bottles (refillable), but full meals or booze from home are not allowed.
Are pets allowed at Woodside?
Generally no. Like most dining and drinking establishments, Woodside does not allow pets inside or on the patio. The exception is service animals (guide dogs, etc.), which are legally permitted if necessary. So plan accordingly: leave your pet at home or in the car (if safe) and come without, to avoid any issues.
