About 134 Oxford Terrace
134 Oxford Terrace is the address of “The Terrace” – a multi-venue dining, bar and arts complex on the banks of the Avon (Ōtākaro) River in central Christchurch. This lively precinct houses several restaurants (such as the Mediterranean-inspired ROCA and the Mexican Cantina ChiWahWah) and bars, plus an independent 100-seat theatre called Little Andromeda (neatplaces.co.nz ) (wanderlog.com ). An *insider’s guide* calls The Terrace “a hub where authenticity meets creativity, a meeting point for the intimate and the avant-garde” (neatplaces.co.nz ), highlighting its role as both a social hub and a cultural landmark on the riverside. It overlooks the Avon River and is known for stylish indoor-outdoor spaces and fine local cuisine (www.theterrace.co.nz ) (neatplaces.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
The Terrace hosts a wide mix of events. By night it often becomes a club and live-music venue: for example, in 2022 the building hosted Frontline Collective’s monthly “Shift” Drum & Bass parties with local DJs and MCs (popular club nights that sold out their presales) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Inside Little Andromeda theatre (at 134 Oxford Terrace) there can be up to three shows every evening, featuring local indie plays, comedy, improv and themed variety shows (wanderlog.com ) (neatplaces.co.nz ). Little Andromeda even runs unique events like monthly Dungeons & Dragons sessions, poetry slams and dance pieces (neatplaces.co.nz ). On Fridays Craft Embassy (in the same complex) often features live acoustic music. Recurring programs include music nights at the bars, experimental theater and community art events. Tickets range from modest fringe-theatre prices to mid-range club covers (often around NZD 15–30), and many nights sell out fast (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at 134 Oxford Terrace are generally purchased online or via the event promoters; there is no public box office on site. For Little Andromeda shows you typically buy tickets on the theatre’s website or at the door if it’s not sold out. For club nights and music events, fans should watch local promoters’ pages and grab pre-sale tickets early – past parties “sold out …] days before the show” ([www.ticketfairy.com ). As one club flyer warned, “Tickets drop on day] at [time] – get ready as they will NOT last long” ([www.ticketfairy.com ). There are usually early-bird and general-admission tiers. Door sales may be available if the event isn’t sold out, but it’s safest to book ahead. Ticket prices are typically announced on the event page; for theatre and fringe shows, rates are often around $15–25, and for larger concerts or club events up to $30 or more. Keep an eye on social media or venue newsletters for presales and last-minute releases.
Seating and Layout
The Terrace building is multi-level. Little Andromeda’s theatre (upstairs) is an intimate proscenium style venue with about 100 fixed seats in raked rows (wanderlog.com ). All seats face the front row stage, and even the back row offers good sightlines. In general, any seat in Little Andromeda gives a good view of the performance (front row is very close to performers). The ground floor bars and club spaces (like ChiWahWah and the lobby bar) are mostly open floor plans with lounge seating and standing room. Craft Embassy (at 126 Oxford Terrace) has high tables, booths and a small stage for live acts. When events like dance parties or concerts take over the space, it becomes general admission: there are no obstructed views, but the best positions are usually near the dance floor or stage. For those preferring a clear view, request a table or seat near the front of Little Andromeda or early arrival for club night standing areas. In quieter bars, seats by windows and the river side offer a nice ambience.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Level 1, 134 Oxford Terrace, Central Christchurch (8011). The main entrance is on Oxford Terrace, just north of Hereford Street and across from the Avon river banks. It’s a few minutes’ walk west of Latimer Square and 5 min from Cathedral Square.
Public Transport: Multiple city buses serve Oxford Terrace. Routes 5, 17, 28, 29, 44 (among others) stop near the riverside opposite The Terrace as they run along Gloucester/Hereford. Ask for a stop at “Oxford Terrace / Hereford St” or “Cambridge Terrace” to be closest. The main bus interchange in town is a short walk away via Worcester St or Durham St.
Driving & Parking: The nearest paid public parking is the Terrace car park at 92 Hereford Street (one block south). It offers hourly parking (about $4/hour) and even has dedicated accessible bays and a lift up to the building (littleandromeda.co.nz ). Street parking on Oxford Terrace itself is limited and metered. There is also a multi-storey Wilson Parking building at 74 Oxford Terrace (suitable for longer stays) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Rideshare and taxi drop-offs are easy along Oxford Terrace right outside the venue. Allow extra time on weekends, as nearby stadium events or city traffic can fill the area.
Inside the Venue
On entering The Terrace complex you’ll find a modern-industrial vibe with exposed concrete and warm woods. Check in at the event desk or door staff (for clubs) and have ID ready if it’s an 18+ night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Security will scan bags and do the usual metal/dress checks for high-energy events. The interior is generally well-lit and air-conditioned, with high ceilings. The theatre foyer and bar are cozy; personal belongings can be left in a small cloak area, though space is limited. Restrooms (including an accessible loo) are on site behind the foyer. The venue has complimentary Wi-Fi in the lobby/bar areas for visitors. The on-site bars (ChiWahWah, lobby bar, etc.) serve a range of beer, wine and cocktails – strictly licensed until late hours. Bring cash only if you prefer; major credit cards are accepted at restaurants and bar stands.
Nearby Amenities
The Terrace is in a lively area with plenty around. Within 2 blocks walk there are many dining and entertainment options. Notably, “Eats on Oxford” at 32 Oxford Terrace offers a casual food court with noodles (Sesame Noodle & Dumpling), Mexican grill (Habanero’s), kebabs, sushi and fusion cuisine (www.eatsonoxford.co.nz ) – a perfect pre-show meal spot. On Oxford Terrace itself you’ll find cafes, and just a block east is Riverside Market (fresh food stalls). Rivers edge parks and the Bridge of Remembrance are right nearby for a scenic stroll.
For nightlife, the scene continues east on the so-called “Oxford/Terrace strip” with several bars and restaurants (including Craft Embassy beer bar at 126 Oxford) just steps away (neatplaces.co.nz ).
Hotels: Many central city hotels are within easy reach. Rydges Latimer Square, Distinction Christchurch (The George), Novotel and various boutique B&B’s are only a 5–10 minute walk away. Large convention hotels near the Te Pae convention centre or central Christchurch are similarly close by foot or a short taxi ride.
What Makes This Venue Special
134 Oxford Terrace (The Terrace complex) is cherished for its unique blend of high-quality dining, lively bar culture and grassroots arts all in one atmospheric spot. Its riverside location provides a scenic backdrop that not many city venues have (www.theterrace.co.nz ). The building’s tenants emphasize local flavor – for instance ROCA prides itself on NZ-grown produce (www.rocabar.co.nz ). Little Andromeda is something of a Christchurch institution, offering an up-close indie-theatre experience (and even giving ~75% of ticket sales directly to the performers) (neatplaces.co.nz ). As one reviewer raves, Little Andromeda is “a charming 100-seat indie theatre” with something “exciting happening” every night (wanderlog.com ) – a sentiment shared by locals. The Terrace also edges into the city’s history of cool cafes and eateries on Oxford Terrace (a heritage dining strip), continuing that tradition.
Because everything is under one roof (restaurants, bars and a theatre), visitors often spend the whole evening here – dinner at a restaurant, then a show or live music, then cocktails at the bar. This integrated “all-in-one” feel makes it a memorable nightlife hub. The modern design (open atrium spaces, warm lighting) and friendly staff also add to its appeal. In short, The Terrace at 134 is special for its riverside charm, local artistic focus and vibrant community atmosphere (neatplaces.co.nz ) (neatplaces.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring appropriate ID: Many nighttime events (especially clubs) are 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ), so carry a valid photo ID (NZ drivers license, passport, etc). Dress code is generally casual but tidy (no sportswear or offensive apparel at the bars/clubs). For theatre shows, smart-casual attire is fine. Expect security bag checks on entry for concerts and club nights. Photography of performances is usually prohibited – ask permission first.
Arrive early: Popular shows and club nights often have lines. Little Andromeda opens its bar about 1–2 hours before curtain (neatplaces.co.nz ), so you can grab drinks and pick your seat. The theatre doors open onto the stage itself, so early comers can choose front-row access. If you need wheelchair seating or special assistance, notify the venue in advance – they remove front-row seats to accommodate wheelchairs comfortably (littleandromeda.co.nz ).
Plan for parking: If coming by car, fill up on fuel beforehand – some nearby streets have timed parking. Use the dedicated car park on Hereford (92 Hereford) which has a lift into the venue (littleandromeda.co.nz ). Otherwise park a few blocks away and walk in.
Food and drink: Restaurants inside (ROCA, ChiWahWah) can take reservations—book if you plan an early dinner. You may also grab street food nearby (Eats on Oxford) if you’re on a budget. The lounges have snack-bars but no large meals, so dining before arrival is wise on show nights.
Check schedules: Because The Terrace has many continuous events, double-check times. For example, Little Andromeda often runs multiple overlapping shows on weekends, each with their own start. Likewise, bars might have happy hour specials before 7pm. Arrive early enough to enjoy the atmosphere (and secure your seat/spot).
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible – use the Hereford St lifts and accessible restrooms (littleandromeda.co.nz ) (littleandromeda.co.nz ). All-gender restrooms are marked. If you have any mobility needs, email the theatre in advance to reserve the best seating (they are very accommodating) (littleandromeda.co.nz ).
Stay till late: The Terrace stays lively till late at weekends. There are often taxis and buses heading back to suburbs until midnight or later. Clubs often finish around 2–3am, and late-night eateries are a short walk away if you need a midnight snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 134 Oxford Terrace and where is it located?
134 Oxford Terrace is the address of The Terrace complex in central Christchurch. It’s a mixed-use venue on the Avon River waterfront housing restaurants, bars and a theatre. The main entrance is on Oxford Terrace (8011) just north of Hereford Street (www.rocabar.co.nz ) (neatplaces.co.nz ). It’s a short walk from the city centre (near Latimer and Cathedral Square).
What kind of events happen at 134 Oxford Terrace?
The venue hosts a mix of nightlife and arts events. The ground-floor bars feature live music and club nights (e.g. Drum & Bass parties by Frontline Collective) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Upstairs is Little Andromeda – a 100-seat fringe theatre where you’ll see plays, stand-up, improv and even themed evenings like D&D nights or poetry (wanderlog.com ) (neatplaces.co.nz ). Festivals, quiz nights and special dinners also occur from time to time. Check the theatre’s and bars’ calendars for specific shows & concerts.
How do I buy tickets for an event at 134 Oxford Terrace?
There isn’t a public box office at the venue, so tickets are usually purchased online. For theatre shows (Little Andromeda), buy on their website or at the door if seats remain. Club nights and concerts sell tickets via promoters’ sites or third-party sellers. Because many events sell out fast (even **days** in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com )), it’s wise to book early when pre-sales open.
Are tickets often sold out?
Popular shows at 134 Oxford Terrace can sell out quickly. In 2022, some Shift drum-&-bass nights “sold out …] days before the show” ([www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s common for early-bird allocations or presales to vanish within hours or days (www.ticketfairy.com ). To avoid disappointment, watch for announcements and secure tickets as soon as they go on sale.
What are typical ticket prices?
Prices vary by event. Little Andromeda shows (theatre) often range around NZD $15–25. Clubs and concerts may charge anywhere from ~$20–40 depending on the act. Many events offer early-bird or concession pricing. Always check the specific event listing for current ticket tiers.
Where can I park when visiting 134 Oxford Terrace?
The nearest parking is at The Terrace carpark (92 Hereford Street) – a short walk away upstairs from Oxford Terrace. It has hourly rates (around $4/hr) and accessible spaces with a lift up to the venue (littleandromeda.co.nz ). Wilson Parking also operates a building at 74 Oxford Terrace (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Street parking on Oxford Terrace is scarce or metered. Plan to arrive early on busy nights or use rideshare drop-off at the front.
Is public transport available to 134 Oxford Terrace?
Yes. Several city buses run along Oxford Terrace and Hereford, stopping nearby. For example, routes 5, 17, 28, 29 and 44 all pass the vicinity of Oxford Terrace/Hereford, within a short walk (moovitapp.com ). Get off at “Oxford Terrace” or “Hereford St” stops in central Christchurch. From the bus stops it’s just a 2-minute walk to the venue.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking and lifts at the nearby Hereford St carpark allow entry to the building (littleandromeda.co.nz ). The front entrance is wheelchair-friendly (doors are 1.06m wide) (littleandromeda.co.nz ), and the theatre itself can accommodate wheelchairs by removing front-row seats (littleandromeda.co.nz ). There is also an accessible restroom just off the foyer area (littleandromeda.co.nz ). If you need assistance, the venue staff are very accommodating if informed in advance.
Are there food and drink options inside 134 Oxford Terrace?
Absolutely. The building houses a range of eateries. On Level 1, Mediterranean restaurant ROCA and Mexican Cantina ChiWahWah serve dinner and drinks (www.rocabar.co.nz ) (www.theterrace.co.nz ). Craft Embassy bar (a beer and cocktail bar) is also part of the complex (neatplaces.co.nz ). During performances, a lobby bar operates with snacks and beverages. For quick bites, the nearby Eats on Oxford food court (32 Oxford Terrace) offers noodles, sushi, grill and Mexican stands (www.eatsonoxford.co.nz ).
Is there a dress code or age restriction?
Dress code is generally smart casual. For clubs and bars at night, avoid overly casual attire (e.g. no swimwear or work boots). Little Andromeda has no formal dress code – comfortable evening wear is fine. Age-wise, most evening events and clubs require patrons to be 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). Family-friendly shows (if any) will note it explicitly.
Can I bring food, drinks or cameras inside?
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed at paid events. The venue has its own bars for beverages. Water bottles (no alcohol) are sometimes OK in theater areas, but check with staff. Professional cameras and recording devices are usually prohibited during performances or in clubs (flash photography can disturb artists and other guests). Small personal cameras or phones are typically allowed for casual pictures, but be courteous – no flash or video recording during shows.
What seating does Little Andromeda have and is it intimate?
Little Andromeda is indeed very intimate. It seats about 100 people in a small proscenium theatre (wanderlog.com ). All seats are close to stage level, so every audience member feels just a few metres from the performers. It’s often described as a “charming 100-seat indie theatre” (wanderlog.com ), giving a personal connection to the show. The small size and low ceiling mean performances feel warm and up-close.
Does the venue have coat check or storage?
There isn’t a formal coat check with tickets, but during cold nights staff often temporarily store clothing if space allows. If you have large items, it’s best to arrive early and speak to the ushers or bar staff – they may direct you to a secure area. Otherwise plan to keep coats on your chair or in your possession (especially in the theatre where cloakroom space is limited).
Are there restrooms inside and are they clean?
Yes. Restrooms are on the ground floor behind the theatre/lobby area. They are modern and well-maintained. An accessible (wheelchair) restroom is available down a short corridor from the main foyer (littleandromeda.co.nz ). Both toilets and sinks are kept clean during events. If they need attention, look for cleaning staff near the lobby.
Is it noisy inside? What’s the atmosphere like?
Atmosphere varies by area. Little Andromeda theatre is quiet and immersive during shows (audience noise is minimal). The bar and club areas can get lively and loud when music is playing. Generally, it’s a friendly and energetic crowd. Expect chatter and ambient music in the foyer bars before shows, and cheers/applause during events. By night the space has a warm lit glow and often upbeat music in the background. If you prefer quiet, go early in the evening or attend a matinee.
What is the capacity of Little Andromeda at 134 Oxford Terrace?
Little Andromeda theatre is a 100-seat venue (wanderlog.com ). It offers a very personal, up-close experience. This small capacity means tickets can sell out for popular shows, so it’s wise to book early if you see a show you want.
