About The Foundry
The Foundry is a well-known student-oriented bar and events venue on the University of Canterbury campus in Christchurch (90 Ilam Road). Originally built as a temporary structure after the 2011 earthquakes, it served for nearly a decade as UC’s main student bar and social hub (www.avenues.net.nz ). Named to evoke a metalwork workshop, the building’s modular timber-and-steel design was actually crafted so its materials could be reused – a fitting touch, since later its salvaged timbers were carefully recycled into a new community centre (www.avenues.net.nz ). During its university days, The Foundry was a focal point of campus life: it was literally described as a “social lifeboat” for students after the quake (www.avenues.net.nz ). At about 151 m² with seating for 100 and standing room for around 300, it could host sizeable gatherings and became a notable offbeat venue in Christchurch (indeed, a recent profile notes its “relaxed atmosphere” with “extensive drink selection and delicious bites” catered to all tastes (evendo.com )). Today The Foundry’s name lives on: the original Ilam Road building was deconstructed in 2019 and reborn in 2025 as a flexible community hall at All Saints Anglican Church in Burwood (www.avenues.net.nz ), and the UCSA student association now also operates a Foundry-named space in the new Haere-roa student hub. In short, The Foundry matters for its rich student legacy, its creative architecture and recycling story, and its role as a lively bar and concert spot on campus.
Events and Programming
The Foundry offers a wide mix of events, from weekly club nights and trivia quizzes to local concerts and touring bands. The University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA) runs recurring evenings like the famous quiz night (with prizes and pub snacks) and budget-friendly “Burger n Bevvy” deals (ucsa.org.nz ). Student clubs often book The Foundry for DJ gigs, themed parties or acoustic showcases. For example, Copyworking UC’s DJSoc helped fill Thursdays with live DJ sets (advertised as “epic gig nights” featuring “great bangers” (ucsa.org.nz )). Many nights are essentially standing-room dance parties in a casual bar setting.
In addition, The Foundry has hosted plenty of live music. Local kiwi bands and underground acts are regulars, and on occasion bigger names have appeared. Notable recent concerts include New Zealand rock act Blindspott (two sold-out shows in Dec 2018 (www.ticketfairy.com )) and even international bookings like Australian hip-hop group Hilltop Hoods and punk legends Stiff Little Fingers in 2019–2020 (www.setlist.fm ). These were ticketed events (with cover charges typical for the time). In general, smaller student-oriented events are very affordable (often free or under $10 for UC students), whereas larger public concerts might go up to $20–$30 a ticket. The UCSA usually announces ticket sales on its website and social media, and some events are listed on sites like Eventfinda or local music calendars. Doors for big gigs typically open about 30–60 minutes before showtime, and popular shows can sell out quickly – early booking or arriving well before stop becomes wise for weekend concerts.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for The Foundry’s events can be purchased through the University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA). Many student nights and cheap shows are paid at the door or even free to UC students, while concerts by touring bands sell tickets via the UCSA website, Campus events emails or local ticket outlets. There’s no separate box office building – usually the bar staff handle ticketing on event nights. For recurring busier events (big bands or club nights), tickets often go on sale weeks in advance. Checking the UCSA calendar or joining their mailing list is the best strategy for announcements. Popular nights (like the weekly quizzes or DJ nights) may require arriving early, as they can fill up; less-crowded midweek shows might allow walk-in entry.
Prices are very student-friendly. For example, a UCSA “Burger n Bevvy Night” offered a burger plus a drinkcombo for only $12 (ucsa.org.nz ). Tiny cover charges (often $2–$5) are common for campus socials, while larger concerts might range $15–$30 depending on the act. If a show is billed as a larger concert, it’s safe to assume there will be a set ticket price; otherwise many events simply operate on a door contribution. Keep an eye on announcements well before the date, and check if there’s a presale window. If buying at the door, cash and cards are usually accepted for both tickets and bar purchases.
Seating and Layout
The Foundry’s interior is basically one main room on a single level. Its floor area of roughly 150 m² houses a long bar along one wall, a stage at the opposite end, and scattered tables/chairs around the sides. The central space is generally kept open – for concerts it becomes standing-room general admission, and for dining or lectures it can be arranged with up to 100 seats in rows or tables. In cocktail mode (standing/drinks only) the room holds about 300 people (haereroa.org.nz ).
For live shows or DJ nights, the best spot depends on your preference. Almost all standing guests congregate near the stage, so that’s where the energy is highest. If you want a mix of sitting and seeing, the edges of the hall have some benches and stools by the windows. Acoustically, sound is lively and loud (expected in a cabin-like hall with an exposed interior), so consider bringing ear plugs if you’re very close to the speakers. A few pillars or half-walls may be present depending on event setup – these are the only slight blind spots. There is no formal “VIP” section – the bar runs a “first come, first served” policy – but a few tables at the rear can function as reserved seating if the organizers agree in advance.
Getting There and Parking
The Foundry sits on the University of Canterbury’s Ilam campus at 90 Ilam Road, Christchurch – right off the busy Ilam Road thoroughfare (State Highway 73) (evendo.com ). It’s well marked as part of the UCSA/Haere-roa precinct. If you’re driving, there are several on-campus parking areas. Note that most campus parking is either permit-only or paid by day – after hours (especially nights and weekends) there is more free street parking on adjacent roads such as Ilam Road itself or nearby Clyde Road, but always check time-limit signs. Rideshare and drop-off are straightforward: you can be let out right at the end of Ilam Road by the main entrance, or on nearby campus entrances (e.g. the Kirkwood Avenue lot). Taxis can approach via Ilam Road and park to unload at the curb.
Public transit is convenient. Metro Canterbury buses stop close by – the “University – Ilam Rd” stop is right in front of campus (busmaps.com ), and it’s served by routes like the No. 3 (Sumner–airport) and No. 100 (Wigram/The Palms) – among others – providing frequent links to the city centre and suburbs. Two westbound lines run roughly every 15–20 minutes on weeknights. If you’re heading home late, just check the Metro timetables as times wind down after midnight; Christchurch’s city buses (the Metro Blue Line, etc.) serve the city end of Ilam Road. Overall, the venue is very accessible by public transport.
Inside the Venue
When you step into The Foundry, you’ll find a laid-back urban pub atmosphere that transforms into a lively club on event nights. The entry typically involves an ID check if you plan to drink – staff will verify age (18+ in New Zealand) with a driver’s licence or passport. If the night is busy, you might queue outside briefly. Once inside, the main bar (along one wall) serves beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks. In keeping with Christchurch’s taste, the tap menu often includes both international and local brews (and sometimes local gin or craft labels (evendo.com )). The Foundry is also known for pub fare: burgers, fries, pizza slices and similar casual snacks are usually available, along with any advertised specials. For example, UCSA has run nightly deals like the aforementioned burger-and-drink special (ucsa.org.nz ) and happy hour prices during quieter times (evendo.com ).
Amenities: expect basic provisions. There are men’s, women’s and at least one/all-gender toilet block separate from the main area. Coat check may be available on very busy nights (often by a cloakroom table near the door). The venue is fully indoors with no outdoor patio on the premises itself (though the new Haere-roa center has an outdoor amphitheatre near it, not part of The Foundry hall). You’ll typically find a few small tables and sofas by the walls for perched seating. If a concert is on, merchandise for the band (tour shirts, albums) might be sold at a table, and The Foundry sometimes has its own branded swag at the bar (though not guaranteed). Wi-Fi connectivity is generally good since you’re on campus (guests can use eduroam or any guest networks), and cellphone reception is strong.
Nearby Amenities
The Foundry’s Ilam location means there are modest services within easy reach. Right across Ilam Road are a few cafés and fast-food takeaways; for example, you’ll find a small convenience store and some (often Asian) eateries within 5 minutes’ walk. A bit further (10–15 minute walk) is Riccarton shopping centre with larger cafés, eateries or hotels. In Merivale (roughly 5 km east), there’s a concentration of restaurants and bars if you want a more upscale meal before a show – everything from pizza joints and pubs to sit-down Thai, Korean or New Zealand cuisine. Late-night rideshares or taxis can take you to downtown Christchurch in about 10–15 minutes, and that city area has a full range of dining and lodging. Up until showtime, The Foundry itself has decent bar bites (and sometimes a mobile food stall inside on big nights), so you don’t strictly need to eat far off-site – but if you have extra time, there are plenty of burger grills, sushi spots and cafés in the area for a casual pre-show dinner.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Foundry is cherished locally for several unique reasons. Architecturally and historically, it embodies Christchurch’s post-quake spirit. Its very name and structure symbolize renewal – as one designer put it, using reclaimed timber was “a laudable choice” and fitting for “a building called The Foundry … conjuring images of scrap metal recast” (www.avenues.net.nz ). Even after its days as UC’s bar ended, its transformation into a new community centre (again called The Foundry) made headlines for sustainable design and community benefit. Culturally, it is deeply rooted in student life. For many of the city’s young people, The Foundry was the backdrop to first concerts, club nights, quiz victories and belonging to bands or societies. It’s a place where local artists tested themselves on stage, and where touring bands played to an intimate crowd. Long-time Westside residents might recall phenomenal parties and formals held here, and alumni often remember it as a corner-gaming pool of campus life.
On a personal level for visitors, The Foundry’s charm comes from its relaxed vibe by day – almost café-like atmosphere from 9 am (yes, it opens mornings for coffee and lunch) – and its suddenly electric atmosphere at night. By midnight it swings into full party mode, grounded by a friendly student crowd. There’s nothing too pretentious about it: the exposed wooden beams, student posters on the walls and a mix of table seating and dance floor conveys an authentic, down-to-earth ambience. In sum, The Foundry is special as both a living piece of Christchurch’s earthquake-recovery story and as a fully functional live music venue that locals keep coming back to. It’s where talented unsigned bands got recorded memories, where rugby fans celebrated finals with a pint, and where anyone seeking a genuine Kiwi bar experience can feel at home.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Foundry is on campus so it follows university accessibility standards. There is step-free access into the main hall (a ramp leads from the sidewalk to the entrance). Inside, the floor is level, so wheelchairs or mobility scooters can attend with ease. An accessible restroom is available on the main floor. If you have specific needs (e.g. sign language interpreter, very large group arrival), it is wise to contact UCSA events in advance — they can prepare accommodations or best entry instructions.
Entry and ID: You must be 18+ to drink, and photo ID (NZ driver licence, passport, or Kiwi Access Card) will be checked at the door if you plan to order alcohol. For a typical public night, no membership or student card is required – anyone can enter. (That said, The Foundry was historically “open to the public as long as you’ve got a student with you” (publocation.co.nz ), reflecting past UC policy. In practice the current bar is open to all adults, but sometimes events are limited to students.) Evening events usually open around 7–8pm; shows often start 8–9pm. If you really want a good spot or guaranteed entry, try to arrive 30–60 minutes before the advertised start.
What to Bring: The typical crowd dress code is completely casual — jeans, t-shirt and sneakers is just fine. If you’re attending a club or theatre night, layering is wise (it can get warm under stage lights). Come prepared to dance: you’ll definitely want good footwear on a wooden floor. Also think seasonally: winter events might require a jacket going between buildings, and summer concerts (if any) could let you bring a light sweater for the cool night breeze. A few useful items: a small folding umbrella (campus events may spill outside between rain showers), ear plugs (for very loud bands), and maybe a reusable water bottle (refill stations exist on campus). The Foundry has limited coat-check space, so if you have a huge backpack it’s safer to carry it in your lap than hope for space.
Least Mistakes: One common mix-up is thinking The Foundry is a traditional “downtown pub.” Remember it’s a university venue first: events might suddenly be labeled “UC event” so watch academic calendars. Also, crowds can be large and lively. Security is generally friendly but firm — please follow any instructions about queuing or dancing areas. Finally, don’t overlook bus schedules when planning a late night: Christchurch’s Metro buses become infrequent after midnight. If staying past 10–11pm, consider rideshare or partnering with a designated driver for safety. If using late-night bus, note that some lines have night variants (e.g. the city’s late X-bus services) – look up the 2024 Metro guide for details.
Connectivity: The Foundry has free campus Wi-Fi (eduroam for students; student-guest login is often available). Most phones get full reception, so you can mobile-ticket or call rides easily. Power outlets are scarce; if you need to charge, you might have to find an outlet in a side seating area (or ask staff politely), so better top up beforehand.
Insider Tips: If attending on a Wednesday or Thursday, check for drink specials (some midweek “Happy Hour” may offer cheaper tavern pints). On weeknights UCSA often runs themed club nights (80s, glow party, student band nights) – these can be great for a casual midweek night out with very low cover. For concerts, see if there is any recommended earplug or camera policy. Many Foundry regulars say the bar’s burger is a hidden gem – worth grabbing even if you already ate. Finally, make friends with the regulars: The Foundry community is friendly, and sometimes the local DJs will shout out suggestions for next events or secret after-parties around campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The Foundry, and how do I get there?
The Foundry is located on the University of Canterbury campus at 90 Ilam Road, Ilam, Christchurch (evendo.com ). It’s just off SH73/Ilám Road. Bus routes serve the campus (e.g. Metro routes 3 and 100 stop at ‘University – Ilam Rd’ (busmaps.com )), or you can drive and park in campus lots (paid/permit). Rideshare drop-off at the main entrance is very convenient.
What is the capacity and layout of The Foundry?
The main hall is about 150 m² and can hold up to roughly 300 people standing or about 100 if set up as seating (haereroa.org.nz ). It’s one open room with a stage on one end and the bar on the other. There’s general-admission (standing) by night, with bench seating along the walls. For shows, the stage area is best for a close view; however, the scattered wall seats and side areas are good if you prefer sitting.
How can I buy tickets for events at The Foundry?
Many Foundry events use tickets sold through the University of Canterbury Students’ Association portal or affiliated student organizations. Check the UCSA website or local event listings (like Eventfinda) for specific events. Some student or open-mic nights are free or pay-$5-at-door; larger concerts will have advance tickets. If an event is listed with UCSA, you can often buy directly through UC’s sites or at the door on the night. Popular gigs sometimes sell out, so it’s wise to reserve early. Cash and cards are typically accepted for tickets on-site.
What are the door times and ticket prices for shows?
Door opening times vary by show, but they generally start around 7–9pm for most concerts and club nights. For example, weekly DJ nights at The Foundry often opened at 8pm (ucsa.org.nz ). Ticket prices range widely: many UCSA social events and student gigs are only a few dollars or even free to students, whereas headline concerts may cost $15–$30. A sample deal seen in the past was a $12 burger-and-drink combo during a “Burger n Bevvy” night (ucsa.org.nz ), highlighting how budget-friendly some specials can be. Always check the specific event listing for its times and prices.
Are there any age restrictions or ID requirements?
The Foundry is a licensed bar, so anyone drinking must be 18+. You’ll need to show photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, etc.) for alcohol service. The venue itself is open to all adults for events – you don’t need a student ID to enter most public shows. Historically, UC policy notes The Foundry was “open to the public as long as you’ve got a student with you” (publocation.co.nz ), though in practice the current bar usually lets any over-18 inside. Some student-specific events may restrict entry to UC members, but those will be clearly marked.
What facilities (bar, food, coat check) are available inside The Foundry?
Inside you’ll find a full bar serving beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks, along with pub-style eats (think burgers, fries, pizza, etc.). Some nights feature meal deals (e.g. burger + beer specials (ucsa.org.nz )). There are standard toilets (including at least one accessible WC) on the main floor. A coat-check (cloakroom) is usually provided for busy nights (especially when events sell out). Unlike outdoors, the setting is fully enclosed (warm in winter, cool in summer). There’s no formal balcony or separate VIP area – it’s one connected space, which keeps the vibe casual. Merch stalls often pop up during concerts for bands’ CDs/shirts.
How do I travel to The Foundry by bus or car?
By bus: Metro bus services run near the university. For instance, Route 3 (Airport–Sumner) and Route 100 (Wigram/The Palms) stop at the University of Canterbury on Ilam Road (busmaps.com ). No. 3 connects to the city and Sumner, and No. 100 to Riccarton/Merivale. By car: The campus is accessed off Ilam Road (use the Kirkwood Ave or Ellice Rd entrance). There is University parking (meter or permit) near the hub, but count on a small fee. Street parking along Ilam/Pennings is limited, so many people use ride-share or taxi drop-off right at Ilam Rd entrance. Late-night trains don’t run to campus, so bus or car/taxi are best for late hours.
What is the accessibility like at The Foundry?
The venue is wheelchair accessible. There are no steps at the main entrance, and the interior floor is flat concrete. At least one accessible toilet is provided on-site. Signage and seating are arranged to allow space for mobility devices. If you have special needs (e.g. hearing impairment or large mobility equipment), you may call ahead or fill out an access form via the UCSA to ensure any accommodations (like a hearing loop or reserved seating) can be arranged.
How early should I arrive, and what should I bring?
For a popular gig, arriving 30–60 minutes before doors open is smart, to get a good spot and avoid lines. Weeknight student events often allow later arrival. Bring your ID (for 18+ verification) and some cash/card for cover or drinks. A light jacket may be handy in cooler months. Don’t bring large bags or outside alcohol. A small purse or phone wallet is fine. If you wear glasses or shoes that might slip on the dance floor, secure them or have spares. Above all, just come prepared for a casual bar setting – most people dress in everyday clothes. Oh, and don’t forget your event ticket or screenshot of it if you pre-purchased online.
Are there age or dress codes at The Foundry?
Generally, The Foundry has no formal dress code – people wear anything from jeans and tees to trendy casual club outfits. Some theme nights (70’s disco, Halloween, etc.) might encourage costumes or festive attire. Regarding age: outside special family events, nights are usually 18+ due to the bar licence. Proof of age is required for alcohol. Aside from that, as noted, students often come in everyday clothes. Smart-casual (clean, presentable) is safe for nicer gigs, but you’ll be just as welcome in sneakers.
What time do shows end, and is there late-night transport?
Most events wrap up by midnight-1 am. On Fridays the venue is open later (Evendo notes closing around midnight (evendo.com )). Keep in mind Christchurch’s last buses on weekdays are usually around midnight or 1 am for central routes; after that, the next Metro buses run early in the morning. If you stay past bus hours, you'll want a ride-share or taxi. A phone-share (book taxi app) is usually reliable near the university. Plan ahead if you think you’ll be staying very late.
