Events at Flux Bar Christchurch, Christchurch

About Flux Bar Christchurch

Flux Christchurch (often stylised FLUX) is a vibrant nightclub and live music venue in Ōtautahi Christchurch’s CBD. Located at 270 St Asaph Street in the new Boxed Quarter precinct, it opened in early 2020 and quickly became a hub for electronic music, club nights, and underground culture. Co-founded by long-time local promoters Zak Cooper and Finn McCall, Flux is a bar and performance space “aimed at bringing new and interesting music to the central city,” as described in local media (www.sporty.co.nz). The name Flux reflects the venue’s motto of continuous change and evolution. In the five years since opening, Flux carved out a reputation for cutting-edge house, techno, drum & bass, disco and other genres, championing Christchurch’s post-earthquake nightlife scene (au.rollingstone.com) (www.rova.nz).

Signature features include a high-energy dancefloor, a DJ booth with a powerful sound system, striking LED and strobe lighting and a friendly, community-driven vibe. The venue is also noted for its inclusive ethos. It hosted dedicated queer dance nights (such as *Queer Horizons* and *Tender Buttons*) and prides itself on being a safe space for LGBTQ+ people and allies (au.rollingstone.com). DJs and audience members alike have lauded Flux’s warm, non-judgemental atmosphere and attentive staff, making it stand out among Christchurch bars. Many visitors note the venue’s indoor/outdoor layout – there’s a small deck or courtyard area (with astroturf) that offers fresh air and a break from the main dance space, an unusual and welcomed feature for a city nightclub. As one review put it, Flux “showcases a diverse range of genres…in a safe and inclusive setting” (flux-bar-christchurch.wheree.com) (flux-bar-christchurch.wheree.com).

Over its brief history Flux quickly became a key part of revitalising the city centre. After devastating earthquakes emptied parts of downtown, venues like Flux (alongside peers such as Darkroom and Space Academy) helped rebuild Christchurch’s music scene (au.rollingstone.com). By hosting quality local DJs and international acts, Flux drew crowds back to the central city for nightlife. For five years it has been the go-to spot for dance music fans in Ōtautahi, known for packed club nights and an “underground” spirit distinct from more mainstream bars (www.rova.nz) (www.sporty.co.nz). In August 2025 the owners announced that Flux will be closing at the end of the year after five years of operation (www.rova.nz), so it now carries extra meaning as a beloved local institution in its final chapter.

Events and Programming

Flux hosts a dynamic mix of events almost every week. Programming leans heavily on electronic dance music: house, techno, drum & bass, garage, dubstep and related genres. A typical month might include themed club nights, local DJ showcases, live band nights and special one-off events. For example, recent events have featured Wellington collectives (e.g. Discopolis disco nights), international guest DJs (like UK drum & bass producer Alix Perez headlining in May 2021) and local artists (Windy City funk sets, underground techno nights). Owners Zak and Finn built connections through their backgrounds (Cooper once ran other local venues and McCall works in touring), so Flux regularly secures touring acts. Flux’s “Golden era of drum and bass” events have included Alix Perez’s *Keep Hush* tour stop alongside Aotearoa artists Paige Julia, Texture, Headland and Ebb (www.sporty.co.nz). Other headline acts have ranged from UK techno names to Aotearoa funk and disco DJs.

In-house events often carry quirky names. For example, the venue has run a *Discopolis* series (house and disco), local opening nights, and special club takeovers. Themed nights – from bass music and breaks to queer dance parties – recur seasonally. Many nights are open-format dances with entry prices around $5-$20 for local promoters, rising to $25-$30 for bigger-name acts (soundsgood.guide) (www.bars10.com). Doors generally open by 9pm on event nights, with music till late (most events run until 1-2am, as liquor licence permits). While the program shifts regularly, Flux’s calendar always features a dense schedule of DJ-driven parties. (An online event listing shows dozens of past show announcements in a single year, including *Flux| Christchurch – Tickets start at just $15 via Flicket* (www.bars10.com) as one example.)

Notable past performers include both local and international talent. Apart from Alix Perez and DJ BORING mentioned above (www.sporty.co.nz), Flux has seen Aroha & Tali (Auckland’s drum & bass duo), Paige Julia (Christchurch’s bass icon), and countless rising DJs like Communicate and Patella supporting shows. Flux even hosted after-parties for festivals (e.g. Twisted Frequency) and was once featured in Rolling Stone Australia/NZ for driving Ōtautahi’s new music scene (www.bars10.com) (au.rollingstone.com). The venue took pride in its grassroots vibe: as one local promoter noted, hosting a gig at Flux “crash-coursed us” into learning the scene, thanks to the venue’s quality and community focus (au.rollingstone.com).

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Flux events are usually available online through New Zealand ticketing outlets (often Flicket) or at select advance outlets. Typically, ticket links go live a few weeks before major shows. For the most popular nights, it’s wise to book early: big gigs may sell out ahead of time. Prices vary with the act – low-key local nights might be as cheap as $5-$10, while national or international headliners often charge $20–$30 (soundsgood.guide) (www.bars10.com). There is generally no traditional box office on site, but a limited number of tickets may be available at the door (cash or card) on event night if the show isn’t fully sold.

The venue recommends keeping an eye on Flux’s official announcements (social media or email list) to catch pre-sales and special offers. Group bookings or bottle service setups weren’t a major focus given the club-oriented layout, but Flux did partner with DJs and promoters for guestlist or door deals at times. International visitors should note that NZ event tickets are often sold via Flicket or Eventfinda – while external sites aren’t named here, locals often buy through those. In practice, follow the venue’s ads and local music press.

Seating and Layout

Flux has a club-style, general-admission layout. The main space centres on the dancefloor in front of the DJ booth and stage. There are a few high-top tables or standing rails along the edges for resting drinks, but no fixed seating on the floor. Instead, expect an open-plan area where you can move freely to dance. The bar itself runs along one wall, with stools facing the counter. Some events may put few small stools or couches at the back for VIP or performers, but there’s little in the way of reserved tables. In short, most people on club nights stand or dance, and the crowd tends to spread from the speakers (which flank the stage) to the back wall.

If guarding your hearing is a concern (Flux has a powerful club PA), standing centrally but not too close to the subwoofers is recommended – the sound is loud and bass-heavy. The venue’s acoustics are generally praised, but expect heavier reverbs after midnight. For a slightly quieter experience, stick to the edges or the outdoor deck. The outdoor turf area (just off the main room) offers seating and table space for when you need a break from the music. From there you can still hear the bass softly – it’s a popular spot to catch air while still feeling part of the party. Note that Gazing down from the front to the rear can sometimes be sight-line blocked by people on rising footwear; if you need a clear view of the DJ, near the centre of the floor is best.

Getting There and Parking

Flux is at 270 Saint Asaph Street in Christchurch’s central city. This is in the south-east corner of the CBD, on a block with other creative spaces. The venue is part of the BOXed Quarter complex on the north side of Selwyn Street, just east of Barley Avenue. Check local signs and maps – it’s often signposted simply as Flux or “BOXed Quarter, 270 St Asaph”.

By car: Street parking is available on surrounding roads (St Asaph, St Asaph Lane, Selwyn). Some on-street spaces are metered (around $1.20–$3/hr during the day; free after 6pm on St Asaph in some zones), so be sure to check signs. There are two Council parking buildings nearby: Wilson Parking’s 230 St Asaph Street (accessible via an archway on St Asaph) and another lot at 200 St Asaph Street; casual rates start around $2–$3 per hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). These can fill up quickly on busy nights, so arriving early is wise. Alternatively, plenty of other downtown carparks lie a short walk away in the Te Ahi Kō area.

Public transport: Several bus routes stop within a few blocks. The nearest major stop is at the Christchurch Bus Interchange (corner of Hagley Ave & Lichfield Streets); from there it’s a 5-minute walk up Tuam Street and a right on St Asaph. On St Asaph itself, look for stops near Madras or Montreal Streets, which serve east–west routes (lines 80, 60 and others) every 15–30 minutes. Check the Metro website or app for routes through Christchurch Central/ Riccarton via St Asaph. Rideshare pick-ups/drop-offs are common on St Asaph Street; there’s often a layby nearby from which Uber/Cabcharge can easily call.

Walking and cycling: Flux is centrally located: a 10-minute walk east from the City Mall area (Cathedral Square) or five minutes from the Riverside or West End precinct. Buses, trams or bikes left nearby also work. Dedicated bicycle racks are sometimes available in Boxed Quarter. After-hours, the area is well-lit but do stick to main roads. Taxis typically drop passengers on St Asaph or nearby Madras Street.

Inside the Venue

Expect a classic club-night experience inside. Doors usually open around 9pm, and you’ll go through a brief entry check (ID scan or wristband) at the reception desk inside the lobby. The foyer is small; once inside the main space you’ll step into the dancefloor area. Security staff may do a quick bag check or pat-down; large bags, weapons, illegal substances and outside alcohol aren’t allowed. The crowd is typically energetic and friendly, so it’s a good idea to leave bulky belongings at home. There is no formal cloakroom, so carry only what you need and consider leaving valuables locked away elsewhere.

The bar counter runs along one wall. It offers a standard club menu of beers (NZ brews and some internationals), ciders, wines and spirits. Spirits are menu listed by brand (e.g. vodka, rum, gin, whisky) – mixers are available. Cocktails are usually simple classics (Negroni, espresso martini etc). Prices are typical for a Christchurch bar (around $7–$12 for a beer or spirit mixer, $14–$18 for a cocktail). The bartenders are known to be quick and friendly. One reviewer noted “friendly staff...ensuring safety and inclusivity” as a highlight (wanderlog.com). The bar area often gets busy during sets, so pacing your drink strategy is wise.

There is no full kitchen, so food options are limited to light snacks (usually things like chips or nuts if any). Many patrons eat before coming. If you do need something to nibble, there are outside food vendors a short walk away (see Nearby Amenities). Inside, the atmosphere is dark and clubby: mirror balls, laser lights, fog machines and LED panels transform the space. The decor is industrial-chic with concrete walls (bare but covered by light beams and projections in time). Music and crowd noise can make speech difficult – expect to shout at friends or step aside to hear each other.

Facilities are modern: the restrooms are clean and stall-style (one side for women, one for men, with additional gender-neutral or accessible toilets). They include baby-change tables and are wheel-chair accessible. Accessibility is generally good – the main entrance has a short ramp and wide doors, and there’s a lift if needed for the upper office floors of BOXed Quarter (though Flux is all on the ground level). As an inclusive venue, staff strive to accommodate patrons with disabilities or mobility needs, though it’s always best to arrive early and request assistance if needed. Wi-Fi is not typically advertised, so assume mobile data only. Phone reception can be spotty inside (many say it becomes near impossible to hear phone calls amid the bass). Cash is accepted at the bar along with EFTPOS; some people prefer carrying a little extra cash for drinks since card machines may time out on busy nights.

Nearby Amenities

The BOXed Quarter setting offers plenty for things to do before or after a night at Flux. On-site and nearby you will find a variety of eateries and services:

• Restaurants and cafes: The ground floor of the BOXed Quarter is filled with multi-ethnic food vendors. Patrons rave about the “diverse” food options – recent reviews note Thai, Filipino, Korean, Italian and Brazilian cuisines all available around the corner (neatplaces.co.nz). For example, the Place MÂ on Selwyn Street is a casual Asian street-food hall. For coffee and light bites, the Day Good cafe (at 265 St Asaph just a few steps west) is a popular artisan coffee spot open during the day. These spots make a great pre-show dinner (hours usually until 8pm, so ideal before a night out). Note that after-hours late-night dining is limited in this precinct itself, but a short walk (5–10 minutes) reaches the Angew bolster area (Lichfield Street) which has pizza, Asian poke bowls, and New Zealand pub food.
• Bars and nightlife: If you arrive early, you could start at other local pubs in Te Ahi Kō (the old FIRE And Ice area). Nearby is The Blue Smoke or Hotel Montreal, which often open until 9–10pm for a casual drink or classic Kiwi pub meal (bigger meals like burgers and fish ’n’ chips). After a show, note that most bars in this precinct close by 3am, so late-nighters should plan their onward journey. A taxi or ride-share is recommended after midnight.
• Hotels: Visitors can find accommodations within walking distance. Several CBD hotels are 500 m – 1 km away, including popular downtown chains (Mid-City Court, Rendezvous, Ibis) and boutique lodgings on Colombo Street or Cambridge Terrace. If you need a room, try finding one near Cathedral Square (roughly 10 minutes’ walk north) – that’s the business and tourist hub, still very close to Flux.
• Other tips: If arriving by car, note there is one public toilet on St Asaph (near Madras) but most drivers plan to fuel up or refresh before heading in. Boxer Brewery Taproom (opened 2024) is just around the corner on Barbadoes if you fancy a craft beer pre-club (closed by the time Flux starts music, though). And always check if there’s a crowd at Flux – standing in line outside can get chilly in winter. The venue usually allows patrons very near opening time, so arriving 15–30 minutes before doors lets you skip the queue.

What Makes This Venue Special

Flux Bar stands out in Christchurch’s scene for several reasons. Architecturally, it’s part of an award-winning rebuild: the BOXed Quarter itself was designed as a multi-use urban hub (by the Field Studio) that integrates art studios, offices and retail around communal spaces (neatplaces.co.nz). Flux occupies a modern, light-filled space at that complex, with a rooftop mural on Madras Street (look up!) and a hidden courtyard vibe. It’s not a cavernous old pub, but a contemporary minimalist club. The outdoor astroturf courtyard is a particularly quirky feature – patrons often describe it as breathing room or an “as fresh air” smoking area that's still decorated with art installations. In short, the venue’s design has a youthful, creative energy that matches its music policy.

Culturally, Flux has cemented itself as a hub of Kiwi nightlife innovation. In just a few years it has “brought new life to the central city” (au.rollingstone.com) and hosted legendary nights that fans recall years later. DJs regularly tell the organisers they love playing in Christchurch because Flux crowds are “small, intimate, slightly underground… one of their favourite audiences” (au.rollingstone.com) (au.rollingstone.com). New Zealand acts often debut tracks or concept nights at Flux, trusting the crowd’s openness. The club’s founders also fostered collaborations with local scenes (e.g. house labels, queer collectives, arts events), so the space feels proudly “of Ōtautahi.” The Rolling Stone profile on Christchurch’s music scene explicitly pointed out how Flux (and venues like it) supported emerging artists to “cut their teeth” and learn the craft (au.rollingstone.com) (au.rollingstone.com). Visitors often sense this authenticity: Flux isn’t just a business; it’s a passion project grounded in the community.

Flux also achieved a rare balance: it’s both adjacent to mainstream bars but operates on counterculture values. Unlike Christchurch’s old “strip” clubs focusing on pop hits and alcohol previews (www.sporty.co.nz), Flux built a loyal following by emphasising the dance experience and safe atmosphere. Owner Zak Cooper even mentioned running an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting after that intense first year – showing the personal stakes. Now as the club winds down, Christchurch arts writers say Flux will “leave a massive hole” in the city’s nightlife (www.rova.nz). All these factors – the creative space, the legendary bookings, the inclusive culture – make Flux Bar uniquely cherished by artists and audiences alike.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Flux is on the ground floor with step-free access and wide doors, plus an accessible restroom. Wheelchair users should enter via the main lobby (ramped) – staff can assist if needed. The bar counter has a lowered section. Note that smoking is only permitted in the outdoor courtyard area; inside is strictly no-smoking.

Age and ID: Most Flux events are **18+** (check the gig listing). Always bring photo ID (NZ drivers licence, KiwiAccess Card or passport) – you will be ID-checked at the door. Oversized bags, weapons, pets, cameras with removable lenses, and outside food/drinks are not allowed. Dress is casual; there is no formal dress code, but many patrons opt for a festival/rave look. Sneakers or boots are best, as it can get crowded and sweaty.

What to bring: Just the essentials. A charged phone, some cash/cards for the bar (credit cards are fine too), your ID, and maybe a light sweater if you think you’ll need it outside. Earplugs can be a good idea if you’re sensitive to volume – the sound system is high quality but loud. Sunglasses at night are discouraged (a joke among regulars), unless it’s part of your rave style. Coming early lets you grab a drink before the peak rush.

Tips before arrival: Check the schedule carefully – many events start at 9pm, and sometimes earlier for reduced-entry hours. If it’s a particularly popular act, getting there at opening or even a bit before can secure a good spot (earlier arrivals often get free entry or discounted early-bird door prices). Most events last until around 1–2am, so plan your transport. On busy nights, allow extra travel time to and from the city centre.

Common pitfalls: Don’t show up thinking there will be seating or reserved tables – nearly all spots are “standing room”. Don’t rely on phone calls from inside – it’s often too loud; step outside into the courtyard or hall to talk. Don’t assume indoor smoking is allowed – use the deck break area or tobacco products. If you plan to drink heavily, remember you must stand or dance: strongest legal NZ licence topped out at 2am, so leave ampletime to sober up (or ensure you have safe transport ready). The club has a good reputation for safety, but standard caution applies – keep track of your friends and belongings just as you would in any busy venue.

Connectivity and cash: Wi-Fi isn’t advertised and cell service can be patchy under the concrete roof. Many patrons find carrying a bit of cash useful, though EFTPOS is widely accepted at the bar. Check notes/cash beforehand because counting money at the bar can be slow when it’s crowded.

Final note: Flux fans often recommend staying open-minded. The venue’s message has been “connect with new people and new music” (www.sporty.co.nz). Dress colorfully or normally – whatever makes you comfortable. Most of all, come prepared to dance and enjoy itself – that’s what Flux was made for.

Frequently Asked Questions