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About Engineers Bar
Engineers Bar is a multi-level bar and restaurant complex in central Christchurch. Opened in 2014 by the Cook Brothers group, it was billed as Christchurch’s first rooftop bar (m.scoop.co.nz). It occupies a restored 1920s “Engineers & Merchants” building (its name honors this heritage) (m.scoop.co.nz). Promoted as “dedicated to the engineering of good times and great food & drinks,” the venue functions as a relaxed gastropub by day and a high-energy nightclub by night (www.cookbrothershospitality.co.nz) (wanderlog.com). Customers praise its eclectic, laid-back atmosphere and downtown views (wanderlog.com) (engineers-bar.wheree.com). Overall capacity is around 350 people (about 150 on the open-air rooftop and 200 inside) (www.sharedspace.co.nz), making Animated Bar a major nightlife hub in the city.
Events and Programming
Engineers Bar primarily hosts live music and club nights. The schedule focuses on DJs and electronic dance music, with regular series and one-off events. For example, the venue’s lineup has included the recurring “SHIFT” party series (www.ticketfairy.com) as well as international acts like Sharkey (UK) and Weaver (AUS) (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Drum ‘n’ bass and techno artists (DJ Danny Byrd, TRUTH, etc.) have also headlined (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Themed nights (e.g. Bollywood dance parties) and local DJ talent are common too (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Events typically run late on Fridays and Saturdays (doors around 9–10pm, music into the early hours (www.ticketfairy.com)) with ticket prices varying by show (local club nights might be ~$10–$20, international acts ~$30–$50). Keep an eye on the venue’s announcements or local event listings for upcoming shows, and plan to book early for popular gigs.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are usually sold online in advance through the venue’s official pages or affiliated event promoters. Engineers Bar does not have a public box office; instead, events go on sale via promoters’ pages or social media. For big shows, presales often open weeks ahead. Tickets can sometimes be purchased on the night (door sales) if not sold out, though for major acts a ticket or guest list entry is safest. Prices depend on the act – club nights may be modestly priced, while touring DJs or live bands can carry a higher cover charge. To secure entry, sign up for announcements or follow local event channels so you know when sales begin.
Seating and Layout
The venue has two main levels. On the street level is the downstairs lounge (called “Merchants”), which has some table seating and a bar. The main attractions are upstairs on the open-air rooftop (the “Engineers” level). The roof deck includes both covered and uncovered areas, with bar service and standing/dancing space by the DJ console. Seating is limited to bar stools and a few tables; most patrons stand or mingle. Total capacity is about 350 (150 outside, 200 inside) (www.sharedspace.co.nz). Since it’s largely general admission, the “best” spot depends on preference – standing near the DJ/stage for full immersion, or leaning on the rooftop railing for a view of the city and some breathing room. The sound system is tuned for dance music (loud near the speakers), so if conversation is your aim, off to the sides on the roof is quieter. VIP sections or reserved tables may be set up for private hires, but on public nights it’s mostly casual, open-format seating and room to groove.
Getting There and Parking
Engineers Bar is at 178 Saint Asaph Street in Christchurch CBD (www.cookbrothershospitality.co.nz). By public transport, several city bus routes stop nearby (for example, buses 3, 7, 60 and 80 serve St Asaph Street near Montreal/Phillips) (moovitapp.com). Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are convenient on St Asaph in front of the venue. If you drive, street parking is very limited. Council meters along St Asaph charge about NZ$4.80 per hour (usually a 1 hr max limit during the day) (en.parkopedia.co.nz). A few small on-street bays are often full quickly at night, so many visitors use nearby paid car parks. For example, the 255 St Asaph carpark (underground) offers visitor parking (roughly ~$9 for 2 hrs). Larger public lots and parking buildings (Colombo Street, Armagh/Worcester areas) are a short walk away.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry you’ll pass through the downstairs Merchants area, where security may check tickets/ID (especially on late-night gigs). Inside, you’ll find typical bar amenities: a full drink menu (spirits, cocktails, local beers and wines) and a menu of pub fare (m.scoop.co.nz). (Reviewers note highlights like the pulled-pork burger and steak with kale chips (thefamilycompany.co.nz) (thefamilycompany.co.nz).) Cook Brothers markets Engineers as a gastropub with good food and drinks (www.cookbrothershospitality.co.nz), and patrons confirm a range of quality dishes and cocktails. The upstairs roof lounge has its own bar (so both levels serve drinks). Bathrooms are available (clean, on each floor) (www.sharedspace.co.nz) and there is a professional sound system for DJs (www.sharedspace.co.nz). The vibe inside is informal and lively yet laid-back – one reviewer noted “easy going, chill vibes” with music at conversation-friendly levels on less crowded nights (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Expect some queuing at busy times. Coat checks are not large, so keep belongings minimal. The venue occasionally offers coat/bag check services during big events (inquire in advance).▯ʻo
Nearby Amenities
Christchurch’s vibrant “East” dining/dance precinct surrounds St Asaph Street. For pre-show meals, there are several options within a short walk. Just down the street is Space Academy (371 St Asaph), a live-music venue with Pizza Trap serving wood-fired pizzas (neatplaces.co.nz). A block east on St Asaph is Tap Room (342 St Asaph) – a casual pub favored by students, known for cheap pints and DJ nights (neatplaces.co.nz). Nearby at 375 St Asaph is Scoundrel (and its Rad Roasting Co. coffee) – a trendy bar/coffeehouse with an eclectic, retro feel (neatplaces.co.nz). Another spot is Lotus Heart (363 St Asaph), a popular vegan/vegetarian café/restaurant (neatplaces.co.nz). For nightlife before or after Engineers, many central-city hotels and bars are nearby (for example, Rendezvous Hotel on Moorhouse Ave is a couple of blocks up, and Cathedral Square’s Distinction hotel is about a 5-minute stroll). Late-night rides home are easily caught via Uber, local taxis, or by foot if you’re staying nearby.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Engineers Bar apart. As Christchurch’s only dedicated rooftop bar (www.eventfinda.co.nz), it offers rare city views and an open-sky deck – a novelty in a town with few high-rise venues. The building itself carries heritage: its name and design nod to the original “Engineers and Merchants” tenant (m.scoop.co.nz), giving the space an authentic industrial-chic character. Its owner (Cook Brothers) had a track record of lively pubs, and press noted Engineers was intended to “create a lot of interest among Cantabrians” post-earthquake (m.scoop.co.nz) – a promise fulfilled by its high-energy vibe. Patrons love its eclectic, unpretentious style; one reviewer said the themed nights (like Bollywood parties) turn it into a “hub of dance and entertainment” (engineers-bar.wheree.com) (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Overall, musicians and crowds appreciate the combination of good acoustics, varied drinks and food menu (m.scoop.co.nz) (thefamilycompany.co.nz), and a large outdoor space. These qualities – historic charm, rooftop openness, and constantly evolving event lineup – make Engineers Bar a memorable centerpiece of Christchurch’s nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
• Accessibility: The downstairs Merchants bar is at street level (likely accessible), but the rooftop is reached only by stairs, so wheelchair access is limited. Call ahead to confirm accommodations.
• ID and Age: This is an 18+ venue (photo ID required after 18th).
• Arrival: For popular events, doors typically open around 9–10 pm. Arriving early can secure a spot near the front.
• Weather: The rooftop is partly covered, but it’s still open-air – check the forecast, and dress in layers.
• Coat/Bags: Bring light luggage. If there is a coat check, it fills up fast.
• Smoking: Smoking is not allowed inside. The roof deck can be used for a cigarette break.
• Cash and Cards: The bar accepts cards, but small dollar bills are handy for split tabs.
• Dress code: No strict code – smart-casual is fine (jeans and a nice top/polo work well).
• Drinks: Cocktails, local beers and NZ wines are on offer; patrons note they are well-priced (thefamilycompany.co.nz).
• Food: Menu is limited but popular (think gourmet burgers, meats and share plates) (thefamilycompany.co.nz) (thefamilycompany.co.nz).
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is unpredictable – mobile coverage is generally good.
• Hygiene: Restrooms (including one accessible stall downstairs) are clean and available on both levels (www.sharedspace.co.nz).
• Stay Alert: Pocket pickings are rare but be mindful in a dance crowd.
• Social Club: You can text their “Social Engineer” program (4664) to grab a $10 bar credit on your birthday – check staff for details.
These tips should help you enjoy Engineers Bar to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets to Engineers Bar events?
Most Engineers Bar events sell tickets through the venue’s official outlets or event promoters’ sites. Watch the bar’s announcements or subscribe to their newsletter for sale dates. For big concerts/DJ nights, tickets usually go on sale weeks in advance. Some events may allow buying at the door if not sold out, but on busy nights it’s safest to purchase ahead online.
What are typical ticket prices and cover charges?
Ticket prices vary by the act. Regular club/DJ nights at Engineers Bar might cost on the order of NZ$10–$20. High-profile international acts or full concerts often range up to ~$30–$50. The bar sometimes has smaller entry fees on lesser-populated nights or special deals. Always check the event details for exact pricing and note that drinks and food are extra.
Where is Engineers Bar located and how do I get there?
Engineers Bar’s address is 178 St Asaph Street, Christchurch (www.cookbrothershospitality.co.nz). It’s in the city centre between Fitzgerald Avenue and Barbadoes Street. By car, set GPS to that address. No dedicated parking spot exists, so look for street meters ($4.80/hr) (en.parkopedia.co.nz) or nearby car parks. By bus, routes #3, #7, #60 or #80 all stop on St Asaph within a block (moovitapp.com). Rideshare or taxis can drop you at the front door. Many central-city hotels are within walking distance if you prefer to stay close.
What parking options are available?
Street parking is limited. There are only a few metered slots on St Asaph (nearby a small lot at 255 St Asaph) charging about NZ$4.80 per hour (1 hr max at a time) (en.parkopedia.co.nz). Larger public car parks are a short walk away (for example, a parking garage under 255 St Asaph offers ~100 spaces). These typically charge around $8–$10 for 2 hours. If possible, consider rideshare or public transit to avoid parking altogether.
Are there different seating areas or VIP sections?
Seating is mostly casual and general admission. The main dance floor and bar are on the rooftop (Engineers level), and a smaller downstairs lounge (Merchants) has tables and seats. Some events may offer a few reserved tables or VIP booths (usually on the deck), but most visitors stand by the bar or dance. For the best views of music/DJs, head near the DJ booth; for a quieter spot, grab a stool at the rail.
Is Engineers Bar wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The ground-floor Merchants bar is street-level, so it can be reached without stairs. However, the main rooftop area is accessed by a staircase only. No elevator is provided for the top floor. If you have mobility needs, contact the venue ahead of time to see if accommodations can be arranged (for example, limiting visits to ground-floor events or arranging a ride-on dessert via the kitchen if needed).
What is the capacity of Engineers Bar?
The venue holds roughly 350 people in total (www.sharedspace.co.nz). Of this, about 150 can fit on the rooftop deck and around 200 inside downstairs. In practice, events often sell a few hundred tickets for a full house. The spacious design usually means it doesn’t feel cramped early in the evening, but late-night big shows can pack the crowd on the roof and dance floor.
Are children and minors allowed?
Engineers Bar is geared to adults (18+) at night and enforces ID checks. If an event is designated all-ages (rare), children under 18 would need to be accompanied by an adult. For standard evening shows, expect it to be 18+ only. Always carry valid photo ID if you’re over 18, as staff check age at the door.
Is there a dress code or do I need to dress up?
No strict dress code is enforced at Engineers Bar. The crowd tends to be smart-casual. Most people wear jeans or nice pants with a shirt or blouse. On cooler nights you may bring a light jacket (there is limited coat storage). Since it’s semi-outdoor, flat comfortable shoes are smart. Avoid work boots or anything too beach-style – as with most city bars, looking tidy is best.
What are the venue’s policies on bags, cameras, and outside items?
Engineers Bar typically has a minimal bag-check policy – small bags may be inspected at the door. Large backpacks or outside alcohol/food are not allowed. Professional photo or video gear generally requires permission; smartphone photos are fine for personal use, but avoid flash photography on stage. There’s no formal cloakroom, so plan to keep bags with you or in a small locker if offered.
What food and drinks are available?
The bar offers a full menu of bar and pub food. Expect items like gourmet burgers, steak dishes, salads, share plates and desserts (thefamilycompany.co.nz) (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Several reviews praise items like steak with kale chips and pulled-pork burgers as very tasty. The drink list includes a broad selection of NZ beers on tap and in bottles, spirits, cocktails, and wines (www.sharedspace.co.nz) (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Guests note the cocktails, beer and wine offerings are extensive and reasonably priced (thefamilycompany.co.nz). Vegetarian and vegan options (salads, plant-based dishes) are also on the menu, and weekly specials are sometimes featured. Food service typically runs until closing on event nights, but hungry patrons often snack on dishes between dancing.
Are there coat checks or restrooms available?
Yes. Restrooms are located on each level, including at least one accessible stall downstairs. They’re generally well-maintained (www.sharedspace.co.nz). During busy events, the venue sometimes provides a staffed coat/bag check at the downstairs bar – but space is limited, so arrive early to secure it. Otherwise, use your car or a friend’s car to stow large coats and bags if you can. Taxis and rideshare apps make it easy to retrieve items after the show if needed.
Are headphones or earplugs provided?
Engineers Bar is a loud music venue, but it does not routinely hand out earplugs. If you’re sensitive to loud sound, you might bring your own earplugs. The bar’s focus is on high-energy music, so quiet zones are limited. That said, if you step to the outer edges of the roof or downstairs lounge, the volume is lower. Always look after your hearing at nightclubs.
Can I bring a bicycle or pet inside?
No, bikes and pets are not allowed inside Engineers Bar (except service animals for accessibility). There isn’t space for bicycles indoors. Pets aren’t permitted in the bar area either. It’s best to lock up your bike elsewhere or drop off pets before visiting. The friendly Scoundrel coffee house down the street, for example, is dog-welcoming if you have a pet with you.
Why is it called “Engineers Bar”?
The name comes from the building’s history. Originally in the 1920s the premises was occupied by an “Engineers and Merchants” company. When Cook Brothers refurbished it, they named the rooftop venue “Engineers” and the ground-floor bar “Merchants” in homage to that heritage (m.scoop.co.nz). So the bar’s theme and décor nod to its past life as an engineering mercantile office.