About Hide
Hide Club is Christchurch’s purpose-built underground electronic music venue, opened in 2019 to revive the dance scene after the city’s 2011 earthquake . Located at 172 St Asaph Street, it fills a unique niche as the only nightclub of its kind in Christchurch. Inspired by European clubs, Hide features a spacious main dancefloor, a full pounding sound system (quad-stacked L-Acoustics speakers) and custom lighting . An upstairs “Attic” lounge offers a more intimate vibe for techno or chill beats . The venue prides itself on being inclusive and safe – the motto is a “safe space to hide, seek & dance” – welcoming all music lovers. With a capacity of roughly 200 standing guests , Hide has quickly become a cornerstone of Christchurch’s nightlife, helping local DJs and international artists connect with vibrant crowds .
Events and Programming
Hide hosts electronic music events most weekends (typically Fri/Sat nights) and clubnights that span genres like drum & bass, UK garage, bass, house and techno . Local promoters (e.g. Rinsed, Hang The Saints) bring in both Kiwi talent and international headliners. Past events have featured acts like Conducta (UK), ENiGMA Dubz, ED Rush, Kyrist & Visionobi, and more, while university and open-deck nights give rising local DJs a stage. There are themed parties (e.g. George FM club nights) and live DJ shows often closing around 3 AM . Ticket prices vary by event — typically in the NZ$20–50 range (for example, early-bird general admission for a recent DJ night was ~$34 ) — and include booking fees. Shows are usually R18 (18+ age restriction) , so expect an adult crowd. On typical nights, bars stay open to sell drinks until close, and security sets a friendly but firm tone.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Hide’s events are mainly sold online through the club’s website or partner sites (e.g. Hide’s Flicket page, Eventfinda, Ticketek) or via promoters. There is no permanent walk-up box office – sometimes a limited number of tickets may be sold at the door if the gig isn’t sold out. Popular shows often have tiered pricing: early-bird or presale tickets (cheaper) followed by general admission, then door price. To get the lowest price, sign up to Hide’s mailing list or watch its socials for presales. Major events (like UK guests) sell quickly, so buying a ticket promptly when announced is wise. As a guide, general admission standing tickets often cost around $30–40 (plus fees) . One recent event listed “GA Standing – Earlybird $34.90” . Payment at the venue is cashless (card tap may be needed), and refunds/exchanges depend on the promoter’s policy.
Seating and Layout
Hide is mostly an open, two-floor club with mostly standing room on the dancefloor. The ground floor *Main Floor* centers around a large open area with powerful sound stacks and spinning DJs. A balcony or side ledge on this level allows a more panoramic view over the crowd and booth. Upstairs is *The Attic*, a smaller lounge with lower ceiling and some seating – it typically plays a lighter or more diverse set while the main room jumps for techno or drum&bass . The main space can accommodate roughly 200 people standing and includes bar counters on the sides. Sightlines are fairly open (no huge pillars blocking the stage), though the bass bins at the front can make the front row LOUD. For best audio, many patrons stand centrally on the dancefloor where the L-Acoustics system delivers crisp bass . Others prefer the back of the main room or upstairs for a bit of distance from the speakers. There are no fixed reservation-style seats or VIP boxes – crowds flow freely. (Tip: avoid standing directly against the main speaker stacks to protect your hearing, or wear earplugs on heavy bass nights.)
Getting There and Parking
Hide is at 172 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011 . It’s in the south-central city, near the corner of Manchester Street. If driving, note there’s no private parking lot for Hide. You can use paid city car parks or street meters nearby. For example, a 5-min walk away is the 255 St Asaph street park (about 97 spaces) – roughly NZ$9 for two hours . Other public carparks are on surrounding streets (Madras, Lichfield, Moorhouse Ave). On-street parking in central Christchurch is metered; many meters are free after early evening (check council signage or PayMyPark app). Public transport is convenient: the bus stop at St Asaph & Phillips (just up the street) serves various routes. The new central Bus Interchange at Lichfield/Colombo is a 5-minute walk north, connecting to suburbs and the Christchurch coach network. Taxis or rideshares (Uber/Zoomy) can stop on St Asaph outside the club entrance. If coming from the train station, it’s about a 15-min walk south along town streets to reach Hide.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, security staff will check photo ID (NZ driver’s license or passport if required) and scan for compliance. Bouncer and bar teams at Hide are known to be friendly and understanding , but do expect a standard search of large bags for prohibited items. The lighting inside is club-style: dark with strobes, lasers and colourful beams synced to music. Dress casually or in club attire; some nights have themes (dress-up is optional). The main bar on the ground floor serves a full range of beers, ciders, spirits and cocktails. Prices are venue-typical (beer or cider ~$8–10, takeaways higher). On special event nights, there may be cocktail or shot specials. (You generally cannot bring your own food or drinks.) Hide doesn’t have a kitchen, but bartenders may have small snacks (nuts or chips) for sale; most people eat beforehand across the road or nearby. The restrooms are down a hall on each level; an accessible restroom is available on the ground floor . Coat or phone lockers may not be provided, so it’s best not to bring huge bags. Hide enforces a strict no-photo/video policy on the dancefloor (aimed at preserving privacy/vibe), so you’ll see many patrons respecting that rule. Wi-Fi is not offered to guests (cell reception is usually fine anyway). Merchandise stalls may pop up near the stage if DJs bring shirts or promos. Overall, the atmosphere is high-energy and communal – just follow staff guidance if needed and focus on dancing!
Nearby Amenities
Christchurch’s South-East CBD around St Asaph Street has plenty of pre- and post-show options. For pre-show dinner, a short walk east on St Asaph takes you to Space Academy (371 St Asaph) – a live music community hub with Pizza Trap, known for sourdough wood-fired pizzas . Just across St Asaph at Manchester Street sits The Dirty Land (Mexican grill) and The Empire Izakaya (Japanese bar & kitchen), which operate in the same building as Hide (Empire’s entrance is on St Asaph). For a quick bite a bit further east, Bohemian Bakery (255 St Asaph) serves coffee and pastries late. A few blocks northwest is the Riverside Market (96 Lichfield St) – an indoor food hall and brewery cluster open till late for snacks and drinks. Late-night options: some food carts appear on Lichfield or Manchester after dark, but most people rely on nearby cafes (closing ~9pm) or Uber Eats if they’re peckish. For a drink before/after, bars like West End Cafe 151 (corner St Asaph & Manchester) or local pubs on Peterborough/Lichfield are within walking distance. On foot, Hide is ~10 min from Cathedral Square and about 5 min from Te Puaka Centre. For accommodations, major hotels (Rendezvous, Novotel, Sudima) and hostels in the city center are all a 10–15 min walk away (grabbing a cab or walking is easy after closing).
What Makes This Venue Special
Hide Club stands out as Christchurch’s dedicated home for underground electronic music. It’s literally one of the first new nightclubs built after the earthquakes , created specifically to fill the void left by demolished venues. Inside, the design reflects international club culture: high ceilings, a sunken dancefloor, stunning light fixtures and an enormous quad-speaker stack . The sound system is top-tier (L-Acoustics) so DJs praise the “true club” sound. Hide’s culture of inclusion and respect is equally unique – every staffer is trained in sensitivity and the club proudly allies with LGBTIQ+ community . Over its first few years, Hide has become a cornerstone of the local music scene , hosting acclaimed NZ artists and overseas producers alike. Clubbers note the vibe is “rave-party meets community hall” – fun, no-pretensions attitude (as one reviewer said, “If you don’t like Hide then you don’t like having fun” ). In short, the combination of high-end AV, progressive music programming and a warm, family-like crowd makes Hide more than just a nightclub – it’s a cultural hub for Christchurch’s nightlife renaissance.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Hide is fully on the ground level and wheelchair-friendly . There are accessible restrooms available on request. Staff can assist if you have special mobility or sensory needs. Age/Dress: Most events are 18+ (check each event’s R18 rule) . “Casual clubwear” is fine – T-shirts, jeans or rave attire. Closed-toed shoes are recommended if you’ll be dancing. ID/Entry: Bring valid photo ID. A driver’s licence or passport is needed for age-check. Plan to arrive slightly early (doors often open ~10pm ) to beat any queue if it’s a big headline gig. Bags/Prohibited Items: Expect a quick bag check. Outside food/drinks, large bags, self-defense items, and professional camera gear are not allowed. The venue might offer a small coat check on busy nights. What to Bring: Just your ID, event ticket (paper or digital), wallet and phone. Earplugs are a good idea for sensitive ears, as the bass can be very loud at close range. Staying hydrated is important – you can buy bottled water inside if needed. Other Rules: No smoking indoors (there’s a small outdoor area). Hide has zero tolerance for harassment or prejudice . Drumming out any form of misconduct is part of their policy. Phones: since the dancefloor is “photo-free” , use them only outside for calls or grabbing a quick selfie off-dancefloor. Arriving: Late arrivals for sold-out shows may have to queue outside. The neighbourhood is generally safe at night, but still, stick with friends. Lastly, have fun – Hide’s staff wants you to “dance without judgment” !
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hide Club located and how do I get there?
Hide Club’s address is 172 St Asaph Street (near Manchester St) in central Christchurch . It’s within a few minutes’ walk of the central bus interchange and many city hotels. Buses stop nearby (e.g. Route 80 at Phillips St), and taxis/Ubers can drop you at the entrance. Check local bus maps for lines stopping at St Asaph & Phillips.
Is there parking available at Hide Club?
Hide Club has no private lot, but paid parking is nearby. The closest is a city-owned car park at 255 St Asaph (about a 5-minute walk) with ~97 spaces . Street parking and other public carparks (on Madras, Lichfield, etc.) are also options. Note that central Christchurch uses metered parking (often free late-night; check signs). Consider ride-share or public transit to avoid hassle.
Is Hide Club wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Hide Club is on the ground floor with step-free entry, and it has wheelchair-accessible restrooms . The layout is mostly open floor, so a wheelchair user can navigate the main dance area and upstairs lounge (via elevator or ramp) comfortably. If you have special requirements, you can contact management in advance; staff members are trained to assist.
How can I buy tickets for an event at Hide?
Tickets are generally sold online. Check Hide Club’s official website or social media for links to ticket sellers (such as Flicket, Eventfinda, or Ticketek) when events are announced. There is no permanent box office, but if the event isn’t sold out, a few tickets may be available at the door (often cash or card). Always purchase early for sold-out shows. Sign up for promoter mailing lists or follow radio promotions (like George FM) for presales and competitions.
What are the typical ticket prices at Hide Club?
Ticket prices depend on the act and promoter, but typical range is roughly NZ$20–50. For example, a recent drum & bass night had earlybird GA tickets around $35 . Tiered pricing is common: presales/early-birds are cheapest, then general admission on sale, then door price. Remember booking fees. Student or low-income discounts are rare, but occasionally promoters have special deals – keep an eye on announcements.
What time do Hide Club events start?
Most club nights at Hide begin around 10:00 PM and run until 3:00–3:30 AM . Doors typically open at 10:00 PM (sometimes 9:30 PM for large events). Weekend parties (Fri/Sat) follow this schedule. Special events might have earlier start times (for example, themed nights or show case shows might start at 8–9 PM). Always check the specific event listing for exact times.
Is there seating or a VIP area at Hide Club?
Primarily it’s a standing-room dance venue. There is no formal auditorium seating – most people stand on the floor or lean along walls and bumpers. The *Attic* (upstairs lounge) area has some bar stools and couches for sitting . Hide doesn’t run a traditional VIP scheme; on rare occasions promoters may reserve bottle-service tables near the DJ booth, but this is by event and not standard. In general, guests pick their own spots on the dance floor.
What is the capacity of Hide Club?
Hide is relatively intimate by club standards. The main room can hold roughly 200 people standing . The upstairs lounge holds a few dozen more if it’s in use. So total capacity is on the order of a couple hundred. (This makes for a packed, lively crowd when sold out.)
What are the ID and dress code policies?
Since Hide serves alcohol, it is typically an 18+ venue for night events . You’ll need to show photo ID at the door (NZ driver’s licence, passport, or KiwiAccess card). Dress code is casual-to-smart clubwear – there’s no strict uniform, but best to avoid sports shorts or bare feet. Many people wear jeans, T-shirts, or EDM fashion. The venue and promoters encourage self-expression (the “Hang The Saints” ethos even says “dress to sweat”) . Above all, be respectful with your attire (no offensive slogans).
What items are prohibited inside Hide Club?
Prohibited items include outside food and drink, weapons or sharp objects, professional video cameras, and illegal substances. Party favors (lights, small toys) are often allowed, but always check event specifics. Generally, if an item could disrupt the crowd or privacy (like selfie-sticks or big backpacks), it will be banned. Hide operates strict no-smoking indoors (per NZ law) – if you need to smoke, use the small outdoor area. Expect security to quickly confiscate banned items at entry.
Can I take photos or videos during Hide Club performances?
Generally no. Hide and the event promoters usually enforce a no-photo/video policy on the dancefloor . This is to ensure everyone can dance without distraction and to respect patrons’ privacy. You will see signs or announcements reminding guests not to film. Casual selfies at the bar or entrance area are okay, but using a flash or recording during sets is discouraged and may be stopped by staff.
Are children allowed at Hide Club?
Most club events at Hide are strictly 18+ (R18) given the alcohol licence . However, for certain private or daytime events (like an earlier party), minors can attend if accompanied by a legal guardian . Always check the age restriction on the event listing. At night events, those under 18 won’t be admitted even with a parent, per law.
Is outside food or drink allowed inside?
No. You may not bring outside food or alcoholic beverages into Hide. The venue has a full bar for drinks. If you have medical needs (like water for medication) or small snacks (like a candy bar) it’s best to consume them before entry. Otherwise, any food/drink you bring will likely be confiscated at the door.
Does Hide Club have a coat check or storage for personal items?
Hide does not advertise a large cloakroom, so it’s best to travel light. Small bags may be carried in and set near the bar or underneath tables. On very busy nights, there may be a simple coat rack or envelope system (ask staff on arrival), but space is limited. Keep valuables with you or leave them secured at your hotel/car if possible.
Is Hide Club the same venue as Empire Bar & Izakaya?
Hide Club and Empire Bar & Izakaya share the same address (172 St Asaph St) but operate as separate nightlife experiences. Empire is a Japanese izakaya and late-night bar (on the ground floor) serving food and drinks earlier in the evening, while Hide is the nightclub upstairs. They coordinate somewhat (for instance, one might grab izakaya food then move upstairs), but tickets and nightlife entry are managed separately for Hide’s events.
