About Awanui Hotel & Motel
Awanui Hotel & Motel is a classic country pub with on-site lodging in Awanui, Northland. Established in 1894, it’s one of New Zealand’s oldest surviving hotels (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). After decades as a celebrated local watering hole, it was purchased and fully refurbished by local couple Brad and Tanja Jackson, reopening on Awanui Day (7 Nov 2020) as a modern-day community hub (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). The hotel sits at the key junction of State Highway 1 and Collard Street – literally the gateway to Cape Reinga and the far north (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Inside, vintage character meets contemporary comforts: period-inspired décor surrounds a classic pub layout with warm wooden bars, booths and pool tables. In fact, the venue proudly advertises “Cold Beer • Great Food • Pool Tables • Dart Boards” (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ) to capture its cozy lounge atmosphere. Its lodge wing offers a mix of self-contained motel units and budget backpacker-style rooms (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), along with free onsite parking and Wi-Fi for guests (za.hotels.com ). Overall, its blend of Kiwi pub charm, local memorabilia and friendly hospitality give Awanui Hotel its unique character.
Events and Programming
The Awanui Hotel has become a live-music and entertainment hotspot for the far north, hosting everything from touring musicians to themed party nights. On many weekends you’ll find a lineup of performers – for example, Kiwi soul singer Hollie Smith on her “Bones” tour drew a crowd in September 2024 (www.nzherald.co.nz ). Local bands and solo acoustic acts frequently play, and DJ dance parties (such as the all-ages “Electric North” drum’n’bass night) have turned the pub into a dancefloor (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue also hosts creative events linked to regional festivals: recent highlights included a wine-tasting drag-queen bingo night and a Bavarian-style Oktoberfest party (savournorthland.com ) (savournorthland.com ). Recurring events tend to be seasonal or rider-specific, with some nights dedicated to tribute DJs, quiz nights or communal dances. Entry policies vary: most casual gigs and bar shows are free of charge, while special events are ticketed. For instance, the “Blancs & Bingo” wine-bingo event sold tickets at about NZ$45 (plus fees) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). In short, programming runs the gamut from laid-back live music and pub games to larger ticketed concerts with advance sale; popular shows often sell out quickly (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), so planning ahead is wise.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for larger shows and special events are typically released a few weeks before each date, often via the hotel’s local box office or regional events channels. The Awanui Hotel itself can provide info on ticketing – call or visit for the latest release dates. Smaller weekend gigs and open blues nights usually admit walk-ins or sell door tickets if seats remain. In contrast, headline acts or themed evenings (like the bingo night) are usually presold, and the venue warns that “tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Prices can vary with the act and event, from roughly NZ$30 up to around NZ$60 for premium touring artists. As guidelines: special festival events have been in the NZ$40–50 range (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), while local-band shows may be cheaper or free. There’s generally no assigned seating unless noted, so most tickets are general admission. We recommend booking early for big names (especially during summer) and arriving early on event night to secure a good spot.
Seating and Layout
The Awanui Hotel’s event space is an open, pub-style layout rather than a traditional theatre. The main indoor area houses the bar, tables, booth seating and a small stage or DJ booth. There are also adjacent function rooms (both indoor and covered outdoor areas) that can be used for private parties or overflow (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). Outside is a “stunning garden bar” with seating and standing room (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ) – a popular spot on fair-weather nights. During shows, most patrons stand or sit at tables around the performance area. Best views are close to the stage or dance floor; those seated at front tables also get a good view. Even the uncovered patio can offer a front-row atmosphere when the weather permits. The venue is effectively general admission, so there are no formal VIP sections. Acoustics are as you’d expect in a pub: the sound system covers the space nicely for vocals and instruments, but if the crowd is large you’ll want to position yourself near the speakers for the fullest experience. One tip: if you’re not dancing, snag a table near the side or rear where you can sit without blocking others. Avoid the extremes of the crowd where view and sound can be slightly muffled by distance or background chatter.
Getting There and Parking
Located in Awanui township at the corner of Collard Street and State Highway 1 (www.tripadvisor.com ), the hotel is extremely accessible by car. It sits on the SH1/SH10 junction (“The Crossroads”) just north of Kaitaia – roughly an 8 km drive (10–15 mins) from Kaitaia town centre. From Whangārei it’s about a 2-hour drive straight up SH1. For drivers, free onsite parking is available in the hotel’s lot, plus extra space on the side street (za.hotels.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). (Reviewers even note there’s room for trucks and larger vehicles on the adjacent road (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).) There is no parking fee, but peak-show nights can fill up, so arriving a bit early helps secure a spot.
Bus: The regional bus network (Far North Link) serves Awanui a few days each week. Far North Link operates a route to the village about six times weekly (www.rome2rio.com ) (for example linking Awanui and Kaitaia). Check Northland transport schedules, as stops will be along SH1 near the hotel.Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis can be arranged from Kaitaia (10 min north) on event nights, though rideshares are rare this far north. Some visitors carpool or hire drivers for festival events.Walking: The hotel is the centre of Awanui, so if you’re already in town it’s just steps away from local businesses. It sits right on the main highway, making it obvious to find.
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside, expect a classic Kiwi pub atmosphere combined with clean modern touches. The refurbished interior has polished wooden floors, multiple lounge areas, and big screen TVs for sports nights. The main bar offers a selection of local beers on tap, plus wines and spirits. A full kitchen serves up hearty meals and snacks until evening; reviewers raved that “the food presentation was beautifully displayed” and the service “awesome and helpful” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) and “pork belly was] to die for” ([www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). In other words, there’s substantial pub fare far beyond the usual chips-and-sauce, in line with the menu’s acclaim. For fun, there are pool tables and dartboards (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ) in a game corner, and FREE Wi-Fi is available throughout (za.hotels.com ).
Entry Procedures: Many events are 18+ (especially late shows), so expect a friendly ID check at the door. The bar enforces NZ liquor laws: you cannot bring your own alcohol or drinks from outside. Bags may be searched on busy nights as a standard safety measure. There is no coat check, so keep valuables on you. Dress is casual – jeans and a t-shirt is perfect.
Amenities & Services: The hotel has multiple restrooms, including at least one unisex or accessible toilet. Credit cards are accepted (NZ eftpos cards work very well), but it’s wise to bring some cash just in case. Host staff are typically helpful and outgoing (one guest specifically praised the bartender by name!). If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask the bar or wait staff — in line with local rural hospitality, they go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. Note that smoking is only allowed in the outdoor courtyard by law, so all indoor spaces are smokefree.
Nearby Amenities
The Awanui village itself is small, but the hotel’s corner location means you’re close to the few local services. Immediately nearby you’ll find the Bakerman Cafe, Gecko Café and a takeaway-style Beachcomber Restaurant for quick meals (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). These are casual spots serving coffee, sandwiches or fish’n’chips – convenient if you want a bite before a show. For a wider variety, the town of Kaitaia (10 min north) has supermarkets, bakeries, and numerous restaurants and bars. Kaitaia’s options include Chinese, Indian and Italian eateries, Mexican taquerias and more, plus late-night burger joints. If you want to extend the night after Awanui’s closing, it’s usually done by driving or getting a cab up to Kaitaia.
Lodging: The Awanui Hotel & Motel provides most visitors’ needs with its own rooms on site (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). There’s also the Norfolk Motel & Campervan Park just across SH1 (traditional motel units and camper sites), and a handful of family-run motels in Awanui’s neighborhood. If those fill up, Kaitaia has larger motels and hotels. Guests often choose to stay on site for convenience – then just wander across the hallway to catch the live music.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set the Awanui Hotel apart. First is its heritage: as a licensed hotel since 1894 (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), it has long been woven into Northland’s history. Its mid-century heyday was so legendary that locals say it had “near-legendary” status (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), and the modern renovation consciously maintains that old-school pub feeling. Architecture-wise, the quirky mix of classic pub and cosy lounge spaces – including that celebrated garden bar – is unusual. It’s one of the very few places whose décor makes patrons say they “feel taken back in time” (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), complete with vintage photos and mahogany accents.
Secondly, its location is hugely significant. Sitting at the crossroads of two state highways at the northern tip of the North Island, the hotel is the unofficial gateway to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). As such, it’s a natural last stop for travellers heading north and one of the first when returning south. That gives it a pilgrimage feel – a place where many kiwis have shared a beer while on epic drives. It also serves the local community: notable is that the owners chose to reopen on “Awanui Day” (the town’s big annual celebration) (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), cementing its role as a community anchor. Artists respect it for its warm crowd and unique vibe; audiences love catching shows here because the intimate, bricked-up pub atmosphere feels more personal than a big theatre. Finally, trivial things add charm: the friendly staff (often locals) remember faces, the beer is reliably cold, and reviewers often mention the sense of finding a “hidden gem” up north. In summary, the Awanui Hotel is special because it’s equal parts historic landmark, lively music venue and genuine Kiwi road-trip stop.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main public areas are on one level with ramped/step-free entry, though small steps exist inside. If wheelchair access is needed, it’s best to call ahead to confirm any specifics (the garden bar and main lounge are neighbourly and relatively open). Free parking close to the door helps ease entry.
Start times: Show times vary, but doors often open at least 30–60 minutes before the advertised start. For evening gigs, expect music to begin around 7pm (early shows like jazz or trivia might start at 6pm). Plan to arrive early on popular nights.
What to bring: Every adult should carry a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) – the bar enforces age restrictions. Wallet/cash is useful for tips or if a machine is down (though cards do work everywhere). Dress is very casual here: most locals wear jeans and a jersey or tee. If rain is forecast and part of the event is outdoors, bring a warm layer or umbrella – the beer garden is uncovered aside from eaves.
Behavior: This is a family-friendly pub early in the day, but at night it becomes 18+ for legal reasons unless an event specifies “all ages.” If in doubt, keep children in Kaitaia or at a babysitter for nighttime shows. The crowd is typically friendly and relaxed – locals recommend socialising at the bar but be respectful of patrons. There is no formal dress code, but note that anyone visibly intoxicated will not be served more alcohol, per NZ law.
Prohibited items: As usual, don’t bring your own alcohol or outside food inside. Large bags may be checked. Video recording of artists is generally discouraged unless announced otherwise. Photography for personal use is fine in shared spaces, but avoid flash in the middle of performances. If in doubt, ask a staff member.
Other tips: Some nights get noisy, so those sensitive to loud music might prefer sitting toward the back or on the patio looking in. Late-night visitors should note that taxis fill up fast after closing, so pre-book if you need a ride back to Kaitaia. On multi-day bookings, the motel side lets you lock your valuables there. And finally, don’t forget – nothing fancy is required here. Have a relaxed attitude and the local Kiwi hospitality will ensure you have a great time.
How do I buy tickets for shows at the Awanui Hotel & Motel?
Tickets are usually released a few weeks in advance. You can purchase them by contacting the Awanui Hotel directly (phone or in person) or via local event outlets. Many shows also have tickets on the door if not sold out, but big events often sell fast (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). It’s best to book early for popular gigs; casual live-music nights may not require a ticket at all.
What are typical ticket prices at the Awanui Hotel?
Prices vary by event. For free bar gigs and open evenings there’s no charge. Special events and touring acts typically cost around NZ$30–60. For example, a recent wine-tasting bingo party was about $45 plus booking fees (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Smaller local-band shows can be cheaper (or often free), while large concerts with headline acts may be higher in the $50–60 range. Always check the event listing for the exact price.
Can I usually buy tickets at the door on the night?
Often you can – if the show hasn’t sold out. Many casual music nights and pub events simply sell at the door. However, for popular or limited-capacity shows, tickets are often sold in advance and “sell out quickly” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). To be safe, arrive early or buy in advance for headline events. If any tickets remain on the night, they’ll be sold when doors open, usually 30–60 minutes before show time.
Is seating reserved, and which spots have the best views?
Seating is mostly general admission. There are tables around the sides and some high-top stools, but no assigned seats for most concerts. The best views are at the front near the stage or DJ booth. If you want to sit, grab a table to the side but near the front. The outdoor beer garden can also offer round views on fair days if a stage is set up there. Avoid sitting behind big pillars or far to the back where sound may be quieter. On busy nights, most people stand, and the venue’s compact size means even standing in mid-room gives a decent view.
What is the address of Awanui Hotel & Motel and how do I get there?
The hotel sits at 50 State Highway 1, corner Collard Street, Awanui (the SH1/SH10 junction) (www.tripadvisor.com ). By car: just follow SH1 north to the village. Parking is free on-site (za.hotels.com ) and along the side streets. By bus: Regional Far North Link coaches stop in Awanui (the bus runs to Kaitaia several times weekly) (www.rome2rio.com ). Taxis from Kaitaia (8 km away) can drop you at the hotel entrance. It’s also walkable from any point in Awanui town (it’s the main block of the village).
Are there age restrictions or ID requirements?
Yes. Most evening events are 18+ due to liquor licensing law. That means photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) is required at the door for anyone who looks under 25. Some special daytime or Savour Northland events may be all-ages (e.g. the bingo night was open to everyone (www.eventfinda.co.nz )). If children are attending, check the event details. Otherwise assume nighttime shows are 18+ and carry ID.
Does the Awanui Hotel & Motel have free parking?
Yes. There is a free parking lot on the premises and additional street parking nearby (za.hotels.com ). On event nights the lot can fill up, but it’s usually not a problem to find a space on the adjacent side street. Visitors have even parked trucks and trailers there comfortably (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Just be mindful of local parking signs (no paid parking required).
Is there public transport or a taxi service to Awanui?
Public transport is limited. A regional bus (Far North Link) does run through Awanui a few days a week (www.rome2rio.com ), connecting to Kaitaia. There is no direct train or metro service. If coming from out of town, your best option is usually to arrive in Kaitaia by bus or car and take a local taxi or shuttle from there. (Taxi companies in Kaitaia can be booked by phone; rideshares like Uber are generally not available in this area.)
Does the venue offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes. The hotel provides complimentary Wi-Fi for guests and visitors (za.hotels.com ). You should be able to connect on your phone or laptop throughout the bar and lounge areas. Keep in mind that rural Northland internet can be slower than in cities, but it’s usually enough for casual use (email, social media) while you’re there.
What kind of food and drinks are served?
The menu is extensive for a pub: expect both classic pub fare and Kiwi-style dinners. Appetisers include seafood chowder, garlic bread, oysters or squid (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). Mains range from gourmet burgers and steaks to fish’n’chips and pork belly. Reviewers noted “the food isn’t your normal pub grub – it’s damn delicious” and praise the pork belly and pasta dishes (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ). Drink-wise, the bar stocks local craft beers on tap, NZ wines, and spirits. Daily specials are often posted on chalkboards, and share plates or platters are available for groups. In short, expect full table-service meals (from lunch through dinner) along with a regular range of beers, wine and cocktails.
Can children attend events at Awanui Hotel?
For general dining hours (daytime and early evening) the restaurant/pub is family-friendly. Children can eat and hang out near their parents, and the bar area is open to families until 9 pm. However, after dark most live shows are strictly 18+. Some special events (like craft fairs or Whit weekend rugby screenings) may be all-ages, but always check the listing. If in doubt, assume that music nights require adult supervision or that kids may need to leave by 9 pm to comply with licensing laws.
Is there wheelchair accessibility?
The venue has a mostly flat layout on the ground floor, and the entrance is step-less to allow wheelchair access. However, parts of the pub date back to older construction, so there might be a small threshold in places. It’s best to call ahead and confirm any specific accessibility needs. Restrooms include at least one unisex toilet that should accommodate mobility devices. Free parking close to the door also helps keep the distance minimal for wheelchair users.
Is parking chargeable for patrons?
No. Parking at the Awanui Hotel is free for customers. The lot beside the hotel and the nearby street parking require no payment or permit (za.hotels.com ). Just ensure you’re parked properly; sometimes buses or villagers also use those spots. But you won’t have to feed a meter or pay a daily fee in Awanui.
Are pets allowed on the premises?
Generally no. The hotel’s on-site accommodation and public areas follow typical NZ rules, which do not allow pets inside (other than service animals). There may be a small outdoor area, but even that might be off-limits for pets unless explicitly told otherwise. If bringing a pet, you would need to arrange care or check local kennels; the hotel building and restaurant simply aren’t set up for pets. Service dogs (guide dogs) are always an exception and are permitted by law.
What is “Awanui Day” and how is it connected to the hotel?
Awanui Day is the town’s annual community celebration, usually held in early November. It features a parade, street fairs, and local entertainment. The Awanui Hotel famously reopened its doors on Awanui Day 2020 after renovations (www.awanuihotel.co.nz ), symbolising a fresh start in conjunction with the town’s biggest event. Today the hotel often participates in the festivities (band performances, specials, etc.). So that date marks both the hotel’s revival and a local holiday, and you can expect a festive atmosphere if you visit then.
Is there a coat check or luggage storage?
No formal coat check is provided. The venue is a casual pub setting, so guests usually hang coats on chairs or use wall hooks if needed. The staff may hold on to small bags behind the bar, but there’s no guarded cloakroom. If you have a larger bag or equipment, it’s best to keep it with you or in a secure place at your table. For overnight guests, personal belongings can safely stay in your room (which is lockable).
Does the Awanui Hotel have any famous ghost stories or legends?
Not that we could confirm. While many old New Zealand pubs have local ghost tales, the Awanui Hotel’s current owners and staff don’t highlight any hauntings. Visitors tend to focus on the warm atmosphere rather than anything spooky. If any colourful stories exist, they seem to be part of local legend and aren’t officially documented.
Can I pay on the door with cash or card?
Yes, the bar and function events accept both cash and card payments. New Zealand’s debit/eftpos cards work without issue, and most people pay for meals and drinks by card. However, it’s always handy to carry some cash for tips or incidental purchases. For ticketed events, pre-purchased tickets often allow just card payments at sale, but the door should take cards as well.
Does the venue have a specific phone number or website for bookings?
Yes, the Awanui Hotel has its own contact details, but the official info is usually just a standard phone number and website. (We can’t provide direct links here, but you can search “Awanui Hotel Awanui NZ” to find them.) If you have booking questions, it’s easiest to call the hotel reception or use the online booking form on their site for rooms. For events, the staff will guide you to any relevant box office or online sale portal.
