About Robrosa Station
Robrosa Station is a private high-country sheep and cattle farm turned events venue in the Cardrona Valley near Wānaka. The property spans roughly 3,658 hectares and sits against the Pisa and Criffel mountain ranges, offering panoramic alpine views (www.luxuryrealestate.co.nz ). It’s not a traditional concert hall or hiking lodge – instead it’s an open grassland plateau that comes alive when events are on. Most years, Robrosa hosts the Rhythm & Alps music festival over New Year’s, and it’s become known as one of New Zealand’s most spectacular outdoor concert sites (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The scenic location and wide-open space, along with the surrounding Cardrona countryside and mountain backdrop, make Robrosa special for both musicians and audiences. Historically it was part of the Cardrona high country station, and remains a working farm most of the time, only opening up for ticketed events. Despite its remote, rugged feel, the station is just a 15-minute drive south of central Wānaka (rhythmandalps.co.nz ), so it’s fairly accessible. In short, Robrosa Station matters because it fuses Central Otago’s wild landscape with the region’s modern music scene – festivals, outdoor concerts and gatherings all feel unique against those alpine vistas.
Events and Programming
Robrosa Station’s calendar revolves around music festivals and special concerts, primarily in summer. The biggest annual event is the Rhythm & Alps New Year’s festival, held each year since 2013 (www.setlist.fm ). This multi-day festival features a mix of electronic, drum & bass, dance music and New Zealand pop/rock acts. Recent R&A lineups have included Kiwi headliners like Shapeshifter, Lime Cordiale, Elemeno P and Cassie Henderson, as well as international DJs and up-and-coming local artists (www.setlist.fm ). Beyond Rhythm & Alps, the venue has hosted one-off concerts and special events. For example, in early 2021 NZ drum & bass pioneers Shapeshifter headlined a summer concert at Robrosa, joined by DJ Netsky, while big local acts like Six60 have played here on NYE (www.setlist.fm ) (www.odt.co.nz ). Smaller nights (with indie or electronic bands) pop up occasionally too. Most events are R18 (18+) and run from afternoon into the evening. Shows often start after midday (gates might open by midday with music in the afternoon) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) so expect a full day of music under the sky. Act line-ups and ticket releases are advertised months in advance; large events usually offer general admission (GA) and VIP upgrades (like glamping packages) in tiered releases. Tickets can sell quickly – for instance, all early-bird releases of the 2021 R&A sold out long before the event (www.ticketfairy.com ) – so fans often book well ahead. Prices vary by event (a two-day R&A pass might be in the $150+ range per person (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), single-day shows maybe ~$60–$100), with camping and premium options extra. In short, Robrosa Station is not used every weekend, but when it is, you’re likely at a major summer music festival or concert backed by thousands of fans.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Robrosa Station events are sold exclusively through official event or promoter channels. For big festivals like Rhythm & Alps, sales usually open mid-year with early-bird, GA and VIP tiers, and often multiple release phases. For example, R&A 2021 had several waves of 2-day GA tickets and camping upgrades, all of which sold out (www.ticketfairy.com ). For one-off concerts, tickets typically go on sale a few months to weeks in advance, again via the promoter’s site or authorized outlets (in practice that’s usually an online ticket portal – there’s no box office at Robrosa itself). Door sales may be available on the day (if an event isn’t sold out), but many events at Robrosa Station have limited capacity and often sell out pre-show. It’s wise to buy early to ensure entry, especially for popular acts. Sign-up to the event or festival mailing list and follow their social media if you can, so you’ll know exactly when tickets drop. Always check the ticket details for the event: some tickets are single-day or 2-day passes, and glamping or VIP camping options may be sold separately (www.ticketfairy.com ) (for instance, Rhythm & Alps has offered 4-person glamping tent packages in a premium camp area (www.ticketfairy.com )). Pricing will be clearly shown on the ticket site; just remember to budget for booking fees or add-ons like campsite fees if relevant. In short, purchase tickets through official channels well before the event date, and watch for announcements on prices and tiers – many Robrosa Station shows follow the standard festival model of staggered releases and possible sold-out status. There is no walk-up box office or third-party “re-seller” outlet on site, so don’t expect to buy at the gate if an event is promoted as sold out.
Seating and Layout
Robrosa Station is a completely outdoor venue – there’s no roof or permanent seating. Events are generally on a large flat lawn or plateau area carved from the farmland. This means all shows at Robrosa are mainly general-admission standing (open lawn) or you may sit on the grass. There is no fixed stadium seating. Typically the main stage is set up at one end of a field, with audio towers and lighting rigs around it. Early-arrivers often stake out a spot near the front for the best sound and view. The best viewing experience depends on your preference: front-of-stage gives full sound and a close view, but it can be noisy and packed; a little further back gives room to dance or camp out. If an event offers it, VIP or “premium” spectators might have a cordoned-off area close to the stage or raised platforms, sometimes with cushioned vantage points or tent lounges. For camping festivals like R&A, premium campers often get a private field section. Because the site is very spacious, you can also watch from the sides or even climb small rises or hills around the site for a wide panorama of the stage and crowd. Keep in mind acoustics are mostly handled by the PA facing the crowd, so off-axis spots may not hear as clearly. At night the stage lighting will be the main visual focus. In short, there’s no bad seat, but if you want a guaranteed closeup view you should enter early. If you prefer a more relaxed, panoramic view you can lounge toward the back or sides. Wheelchair or mobility-gauge areas may be set up at some events (flat ground), but always check ahead – Robrosa’s terrain is general dirt/grass, so some ground-cover travel or assistance luggage may be needed for strollers or wheelchairs.
Getting There and Parking
Robrosa Station is off the beaten path but reachable by road. The official address for mapping is 1653 Cardrona Valley Road, Cardrona, Otago – which is on the road linking Wanaka and Queenstown through the Cardrona Valley. From Wanaka it’s about 15 minutes’ drive south along State Highway 6 and the Cardrona Valley Road turnoff (rhythmandalps.co.nz ). From Queenstown it’s roughly 30–40 minutes north via the Crown Range and Cardrona. Driving is the most common way to get there, and roads are well signposted for major events. During big events like R&A, special shuttle buses run from Wanaka, Queenstown, Lake Hawea and Albert Town straight to the venue (rhythmandalps.co.nz ), so you can buy a bus pass if you prefer not to drive. Otherwise regular taxis/rideshares can drop you at the entrance, but note coverage may be limited outside town – plan rides in advance. Parking is available on site at Robrosa for attendees; for festival events it is usually free and within easy walking distance of the camps and main stage (rhythmandalps.co.nz ). Details about parking zones or shuttle pick-ups are typically sent to ticket holders before the event. If you drive on a non-festival day there’s no public carpark (it’s private land), so strictly park where event staff indicate or use nearby Cardrona Hotel parking otherwise.
Inside the Venue
Once you arrive at Robrosa Station, expect a very outdoor, festival-style atmosphere. There will be entry gates where security will check tickets and do bag searches (no weapons or only small clear bags allowed, per usual festival rules). The setting is rustic: you’ll find performance stages (usually one main stage and possibly smaller side stages for multi-act events), surrounded by speaker stacks and lighting trusses. There are typically several zones of vendors selling food, drinks and merchandise. Expect food trucks or stands offering snacks, street-food-style meals, and festival fare (think burgers, pizza, local treats). Bars or beverage tents will sell beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks (ID required for alcohol). It’s dusty in summer and mucky if it rains, so wear sturdy footwear. Long restroom lines are common at peak times – portable toilets or trailers are provided at festivals (check first aid / info tents for any accessible toilets). There may be on-site ATM or cash-less eftpos facilities, but it’s wise to carry some cash just in case. Some events may offer coat check or lockers, but many do not – avoid bringing large bags. Free water refill stations are often set up at festivals to keep everyone hydrated, especially in sunny weather. Since it’s an open natural site, cell service can be patchy; Wi-Fi is unlikely, so plan meeting points in advance. Overall, Robrosa’s vibe is casual and open-air: people may wander, dance on the grass, sunbathe or sit on picnic blankets between sets. Staff and security are usually present but polite. As one report noted during a recent summer concert, punters at Robrosa were alternately “finding shade and busting moves… and rehydrating and queuing for adult beverages” under clear skies (www.odt.co.nz ) – a good picture of the laid-back festival atmosphere you’ll find inside the venue.
Nearby Amenities
There are no shops or hotels immediately on the Robrosa property, but several convenient options lie within 15–20 minutes’ drive. The historic Cardrona Hotel (at Cardrona Valley Road and Highway 6) is the closest pub and eatery, a rustic tavern known for hearty Kiwi meals (great for a pre-show dinner). Cardrona Alpine Resort village is further up the road and has a cafe/restaurant. For more variety, head back toward Wānaka: that town, 15–20 km north, has many restaurants and bars (Italian, Asian-fusion, burgers, wineries, breweries, etc.), as well as supermarkets and shops to stock up on supplies before an event. Several hotels, motels and holiday parks are in Wānaka if you plan to stay overnight; Queenstown is about 40 minutes away and also offers full services. After late-night shows, public transport is scant – shuttle buses or taxis must be booked ahead. If you drive, note that the Cardrona roads are relatively quiet but can be hazy/dusty after dark; leave extra time for slow exit after a big festival. In an emergency, Wanaka Hospital is the nearest medical center (no on-site first aid beyond event medics). In short, arrive early to grab food and gear in Wānaka or Queenstown. The general rule is: plan to treat Robrosa as a remote festival site – do laundry, grocery runs and gear pickups before you head out that way.
What Makes This Venue Special
There’s nothing else quite like Robrosa Station. It isn’t a cavernous arena or a historic theatre – it’s literally a piece of pristine Central Otago wilderness that doubles as a music venue. The mountains all around, big open sky, and rural farmland setting give every event here a uniquely Kiwi flavour. Festival-goers often mention how the combination of alpine scenery, summer sun or night sky, and live music creates a “one of the most unique music experiences on the planet” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). The geography is special: at nearly 2,000m above sea level, it’s one of the highest outdoor concert sites in New Zealand, which means epic sunrise and sunset backdrops and always-crisp air. Also, Robrosa’s history adds character. It carries on the high-country “station” tradition (large sheep farm), a heritage of the Cardrona Valley, while supporting modern Kiwi culture. Many iconic NZ bands and DJs have fond memories of playing Robrosa because the audience brings such energy in that wild setting. Locals love that Robrosa Station events keep Cardrona lively in summer – it turns the quiet valley into a gathering place for thousands. The community impact is big: during festivals, tourism surges to nearby towns, and culturally it puts Cardrona on the map as a summer music destination. In short, Robrosa Station is special for its scenery, the way it blends nature with nightlife, and for carrying on the unique “NZ station” legacy in a modern way. As one description puts it: “camping, the lakes, the views, the sound... the wonderful people of Wānaka and Queenstown” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) – all clues to why artists and fans love coming here.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Robrosa Station is essentially a natural field. Most of it is flat grass, but ground can be uneven or dusty. Wheelchair access and baby strollers may be possible closer to entrances/flat zones, but expect rougher terrain further in. Portable accessible toilets are usually provided for events. If you have special access needs, contact event organizers ahead of time – they can often arrange viewing zones or assistance on request.Weather and Clothing: Central Otago weather can change quickly. Days may be hot and sunny (UV is strong at altitude), so bring sunblock, a hat and water. Nights can get cold even in summer, so pack warm layers and a waterproof – a sudden shower is possible. In fact, one event in January saw clear blue skies one day and a hailstorm the next (www.odt.co.nz )! Always wear comfortable, closed shoes for walking around.What to Bring: Event rules usually ban glass bottles, large umbrellas, and sometimes large backpacks. Selfie sticks or professional cameras might be prohibited (check the exact policy). It’s wise to bring a refillable water bottle (free water is often available for refills). Earplugs are handy if you plan to get close to the speakers. Camping gear is only needed if you bought a campsite ticket. Otherwise, bring only what you need for the day (a small daypack or fanny pack is ideal). Follow any instructions in your ticket info about bracelets or ID, as most events are 18+ and require ID for alcohol.Facilities: There is usually a coat check or locker option only at larger festivals. Otherwise, keep valuables on you (most people use camelbacks or zipped pockets). Mobile coverage at Robrosa can be spotty, so don’t rely on phone maps inside the site; consider using GPS navigation en route. Free Wi-Fi is almost never available in the valley, so download any digital tickets or apps in advance.Arrival Timing: Arrive early for the best spots and to avoid late crowds on the narrow valley road. Gates often open a few hours before the first act (e.g. around midday or early afternoon). If you’re camping, set up before nightfall. For non-campers, plan your exit route if staying late – traffic can back up after big shows.Age and ID: Most Robrosa events are 18+ (R18); entry requires a valid photo ID. Check your specific event age policy in advance. If an event does allow minors (unusual here), they may need to hold a guardian’s name on file.Food & Drink: Outside food and alcohol are usually not allowed, but vendors are plentiful at events. Local wine and beer is often for sale. If you buy alcohol, note that open-container rules are strictly enforced in the valley outside licensed zones – only drink within the designated festival bars. Stay hydrated in the sun and never drink and drive.Parking: Follow the organisers’ parking instructions. For major events like R&A, parking is free on site (rhythmandalps.co.nz ), but in past smaller shows space was provided only for guests and caretakers. Don’t park on the highway – park in designated zones only.Etiquette: Bring cash if you can (card machines are available but can crash under load). Respect the environment: take your rubbish with you or use bins. Locals appreciate orderly behavior – indeed festival police report that crowds at Robrosa events have been largely well-behaved (www.odt.co.nz ). But always drink responsibly and keep track of friends in open spaces.Pets: Pets are generally not allowed at festival events on site (it’s for public safety). With no streetside, it’s best to leave animals at home or in boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of Robrosa Station?
The venue is located at 1653 Cardrona Valley Road in Cardrona, near Wānaka. It’s about 15 minutes’ drive south of Wānaka town center (rhythmandalps.co.nz ). This winding mountain road runs between Wanaka and Queenstown through the Cardrona Valley. Plug the address into your GPS or mapping app – it will direct you straight to the Robrosa Station gate.
Is there public transportation to Robrosa Station?
Outside of festival shuttles, there’s no regular public bus on Cardrona Valley Road. For major events like Rhythm & Alps or headline concerts, special Yello! bus services run from Queenstown, Wānaka, Hawea and nearby towns directly to Robrosa (rhythmandalps.co.nz ). These must be booked in advance with your event ticket. Otherwise, your best bet is driving or arranging a private shuttle/taxi; keep in mind limited coverage for rideshares in this remote area.
Where can I park at Robrosa Station?
For events, on-site parking is typically provided. For example, Rhythm & Alps offers free parking close to the campground (rhythmandalps.co.nz ). Event organizers will give directions on where to park. If an event is smaller, there may still be a designated lot or adjacent fields used for parking. When attending, arrive early to find the correct parking area. Parking is on gravel or grass, so avoid muddy shoes in wet weather.
How far is Robrosa Station from Wanaka and Queenstown?
Robrosa Station is roughly 20 km from the center of Wānaka (about a 15-20 minute drive) and about 40 km from Queenstown (around 30-40 minutes by car, depending on traffic). The route from Queenstown goes over the Crown Range Road then down into Cardrona Valley. All year the roads are sealed and well-maintained, but watch for ski traffic in winter or cyclists in summer.
Are events at Robrosa Station 18+?
Nearly all music events at Robrosa Station are age-restricted. For instance, recent festivals and concerts there have been advertised as 18+ only (see the R&A 2021 ticket info stating “Ages 18+” (www.ticketfairy.com )). Always check the flyer or ticketing page of your specific event, but you should generally plan on Robrosa events being for adults only.
Is Robrosa Station accessible for wheelchairs?
Robrosa Station events are outdoors on grass/dirt terrain, so accessibility is limited. There are usually flat areas right in front of stages that can accommodate wheelchair viewing if arranged, but many paths are unsealed and potentially bumpy. Portable accessible toilets are typically provided. If you need assistance, it’s best to contact the event organizer ahead of time. Overall, it’s not a fully ADA-style venue; plan accordingly (bring sturdy shoes or consider a mobility aid for uneven ground).
What should I bring to an event at Robrosa Station?
Pack for all-day outdoor fun. Essentials include sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for daytime, plus a warm jacket for chilly nights. Comfortable walking shoes are a must on dusty ground. Bring a small daypack or bag for personal items (check the event’s bag policy ). If camping, bring your tent and camping gear. A refillable water bottle is smart – many events have free water stations. Also carry ID since most events are 18+. Leave glass bottles, large umbrellas and outside food/alcohol at home (vendors provide food/drinks on site).
Are there toilets and food vendors at Robrosa Station?
Yes. For festivals or concerts, organizers set up portable restrooms (including accessible ones). There are usually hand-washing stations and, often, water refill points. Expect multiple food trucks or stalls selling meals, snacks, and refreshments (coffee, burgers, vegetarian options, etc.). Bars selling beer, wine and soft drinks will also be on site. There’s no grocery store at Robrosa itself, so plan to buy supplies in Wānaka or Queenstown beforehand.
Does Robrosa Station have indoor shelter?
No. Robrosa Station is entirely outdoor. There are no permanent indoor venues or buildings for the public to take shelter in. A few temporary tents (for VIP areas, first aid or merchandise) may appear during events, but generally you are exposed to the elements. If rain is forecast, wear a waterproof jacket and consider a fold-up poncho (umbrellas might block views). If it’s hot and sunny, bring sun protection and plan to seek shade under the few open-sided structures or trees around the site.
What is the capacity of Robrosa Station for events?
As a natural outdoor field, Robrosa Station can hold many thousands of people for a concert. Resource consents for big events allow up to ~18,000 attendees (www.odt.co.nz ), though festivals like Rhythm & Alps often cap attendance at around 10,000 per event. For one-off concerts, crowd size depends on the specific event set-up. In practice, think of Robrosa as capable of accommodating at least 8–12 thousand concert-goers comfortably, since it’s a very large, open area.
Can I camp at Robrosa Station when there isn’t an event?
No. Robrosa Station is private farmland, not a public campground. You can only camp on the property if you have purchased an official camping ticket for a music festival there (like R&A). Outside of event dates, the land is closed to public access. If you want to camp in Cardrona Valley at other times, look for campgrounds near Wanaka or the Cardrona Alpine Resort.
Why is it called Robrosa “Station”?
In New Zealand, a “station” is a term for a large farm or ranch. Robrosa Station got its name because it’s a vast high-country sheep and cattle station (farm). It’s essentially one big working farm in the Cardrona high country. The “Station” doesn’t refer to a train or subway station – it’s the rural NZ way of saying big station farm (www.luxuryrealestate.co.nz ).
