About Errick’s Venue Dunedin
Errick’s is Dunedin’s purpose-built mid-sized live music and events venue, opened in late 2023. Housed in the former New New New brewery on Crawford Street, it occupies a historic industrial-style brick building repurposed by the Oxley-Lobo family (www.odt.co.nz ). The space features soaring 10 m ceilings, exposed timber and steel beams, and a raised mezzanine balcony overlooking the stage (www.erricks.com ). The main hall holds roughly 300 people under normal configurations, although early publicity described up to a 500-person capacity to accommodate standing crowds (www.erricks.com ) (www.odt.co.nz ). Its flexible design – complete with a drive-in loading bay and a funky bar – was specifically created to “rejuvenate Dunedin’s music scene” and fill the gap left by older venues (www.erricks.com ) (www.odt.co.nz ). Owners Mili and Baden Oxley-Lobo (with family) have built in everything bands need – from in-house production and backline gear to hotel rooms upstairs – so it works for both concerts and private events (www.erricks.com ) (www.odt.co.nz ). Errick’s sits at 218 Crawford Street (the performance entry) with an adjoining courtyard and separate carpark at 649 Princes Street (www.erricks.com ) (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). In short, Errick’s combines industrial-chic style with cutting-edge sound and lighting to create Dunedin’s newest cultural hub.
Events and Programming
Errick’s quickly became a hotspot for a wide spectrum of events. It presents everything from live local bands and touring acts to comedy, cabaret, dance and family shows. A recent schedule shows its range: one week featured a communal paint-and-wine “Paintvine” art night and a zany American stand-up comedy tour (www.erricks.com ) (www.erricks.com ); another hosted Australian country star Brad Cox and a mother-and-baby coffee morning called “Latte and Little Ones” (www.erricks.com ) (www.erricks.com ). Errick’s is also a Fringe Festival venue (folk concerts, theatre, aerial acro-shows, etc.) and even held a week-long Dunedin Arts Festival series in Spring 2025 (www.moshtix.co.nz ). Regular themed nights have appeared too – for example, a hit monthly “Brews & Bangers” sing-along (www.moshtix.co.nz ) brings crowds together over beers and karaoke hits. Owners emphasize a local focus by often giving special rates to Otago bands and running community events, while still attracting national and international touring acts. In practice, most weekends have a gig or two: rock, pop, blues, folk and country concerts share the calendar with comedy shows, place-based performers, quiz nights and even children’s music mornings. Ticket prices vary wildly – small local shows might be $15–$20, while bigger tours can go $40–$60 – but there’s usually a range of options from free or cheap community events up to headline concerts. Overall, Errick’s programming is eclectic, covering mid-sized rock and indie shows one night and private weddings or corporate seminars the next, truly reflecting its multipurpose design (www.odt.co.nz ).
Tickets and Booking
Most Errick’s events sell tickets on general platforms (e.g. Moshtix or Eventfinda) rather than an on-site box office. Shows are announced on the Errick’s website and local arts calendars, usually 4–8 weeks before the date. Major concerts and tours often go on sale early (sometimes with presales for fan clubs or venue insiders), while smaller or one-off events may pop up just weeks in advance. It’s wise to book popular shows early – Errick’s does sell out for big names – either online in advance or at the door (if available). There is no physical box office on Crawford Street, so your safest bet is to purchase tickets through the official online outlets listed with each event. Errick’s venue staff offer event hosts basic ticketing support (they have an in-house system for on-sale) and even provide group-booking help for corporate and wedding bookings. Keep in mind the venue is licensed: some concerts will be R18, so check age restrictions and be ready to show photo ID at the door if your event has an age limit. Watch Errick’s own channels or newsletters for any advance registration or exclusive deals, but in general tickets come from the same sites that list other New Zealand concerts. If a show isn’t sold out, last-minute door sales are usually possible – but lines can form early, so aim to arrive before doors open if you want to secure a spot or avoid a sell-out.
Seating and Layout
Errick’s main hall is an open floor plan. By default it’s general admission standing: there are no fixed seats. The stage (about 6 m×4 m, raised ~0.8 m high) sits at one end, with the crowd facing it on a flat concrete floor (www.erricks.com ). Portable chairs can be set up along the walls or floor for special events (like conference panels or seated dinners), but for rock and dance shows people are usually side by side dancing. Along the perimeter above the floor is a narrow mezzanine balcony (a second-story viewing platform noted on the venue’s hire page (www.erricks.com )). These upper rails give a great bird’s-eye view of the action – good for catching light shows or seeing a packed room – though being directly under the speakers can make it very loud. For best sound quality, many patrons find the middle of the floor gives the most balanced audio (close enough to feel the warmth of the amps without standing right next to the big subwoofers). Front-row against the stage offers powerful impact and visuals, but it can be crowded and difficult to see over the crowd. Conversely, near the back or sides tends to be quieter (with the mixing desk area and side platforms) and gives a more mellow sound. Errick’s doesn’t have numbered seating, VIP boxes or reserved chairs for standard concert nights – it’s essentially a flat-floor arena – so first-come, first-served. If an event is sold with seats (e.g. a business forum), seating layout is typically indicated on the event ticket. Wheelchair users can be accommodated by moving seats or leaving space in the floor area. The walkways from the entrance flanking the stage allow access to any point along the floor without climbing stairs. Overall, Errick’s is designed for standing gigs and dance parties, but it can be rearranged for seated audiences if the event requires.
Getting There and Parking
Errick’s address is 218 Crawford Street, South Dunedin (unique postal code 9016). It sits at the southern end of the Princes/Crawford intersection, about a 5-minute drive from the Octagon. However, note that Errick’s has a split entry: the main concert entrance is on Crawford Street, but the parking and cafe entry is on Princes Street. In fact, the official guidance is “218 Crawford St (Gig Entry)” and “649 Princes St (Carpark & Cafe)” (www.erricks.com ). In practice, visitors driving should head to the Princes Street side: there is a dedicated carpark accessed via the Andersons Bay Road turnoff. That lot (and any overflow) leads into the sheltered Errick’s courtyard where you can then walk around to the Crawford St entrance (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ) (www.erricks.com ). Street parking is also common in the area – many sections of Princes, Crawford and Craigleith Street nearby are free after hours or on weekends. (Be sure to read signs: some nearby meters can be $2–$3/hour on weekdays.) For longer stays, a larger pay car park is on George/Cargill Streets (10 minutes’ walk), and the busier early-evening hours often require arriving early to find a spot at no cost. If using ride-share or taxis, the drop-off point is best set to Crawford Street in front of the venue (there’s a kerbside area near the marquee). Public transit: Dunedin’s Orbus buses run along Princes Street and nearby South Road. For example, Route 12 from the city centre (Princes St/Cadbury corner) stops within a 3-minute walk, and the City LINK (Route 18) circle route stops on Princes near Avon Street. Routes serving the central city will drop you at Crawford/Princes if you ask the driver (or at Birdwood/Vogel, a 5-10 min walk). If you’re coming from town, you can also walk: it’s roughly a 15–20 minute stroll south along Princes Street (crossing Maclagan, Cargill or King Edward streets onto Crawford). In any case, Errick’s recommends allowing extra time on busy nights – parking is limited, and buses can get backed up – so aim to arrive an hour before showtime if possible. Kib but strewant odn.
Inside the Venue
On entering Errick’s, you step into a high-ceiling industrial loft with colourful lighting and a friendly crowd. Expect to have your tickets scanned right at the Crawford Street door. For those attending an 18+ gig, a quick ID check is standard (bring a driver’s licence or passport if asked). Security staff may peek in large bags and put any big containers aside, but small bags and cameras/phones are usually OK. (Professional camera gear is normally not permitted for concerts unless you have press approval.) The atmosphere inside is relaxed but focused on the stage: people often mill around a central open space or near the bar. The venue is fully licensed, so all the usual bar rules apply – no outside alcohol, and certainly no glass containers. Drinks are sold on-site from a bar that opens before and during shows: beer on tap, wine and spirits. The adjoining Ombrellos Kitchen and Bar (at the Princes Street lobby) serves food and snacks – pizzas, salads, burgers and shareboards – so you can grab a bite without leaving the building. Restrooms are clean and gender-neutral; one is fully wheelchair-accessible with a changing table and rails (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). The performance stage has a green room backstage for artists, but visitors don’t use that area. Look around and you’ll see equipment racks and the in-house drum kit perched upstage. If you’re hungry, the cafe/bistro downstairs (Princes Street side) sells coffee and pastries during daylight hours, and often opens up for post-show munchies too. The venue’s Victorian-era beer tanks are gone, but the exposed brick walls and big factory windows give a warm, lived-in feel by day. After dark or during evenings, the lighting rig kicks in: eight SlimPAR LED wash lights bathe the hall in color (www.erricks.com ). The sound is generally excellent anywhere in the room thanks to the professional FOH system. In short, inside Errick’s expect a big airy space with a stage at one end, a raised tech-mix area in the middle, and a bar and merchandise tables along the sides. You’ll also find coat racks or cubbies by the door for jackets. Mobile phone reception is good (Telco cell service works fine), but there’s no patron Wi-Fi network – just enjoy the show and step outside to check messages if needed.
Nearby Amenities
The venue’s South Dunedin location means a somewhat industrial neighbourhood, but there are still plenty of spots for food, drink and lodging within easy reach. On-site is Ombrellos Kitchen & Bar (Princes St level) – a popular modern Kiwi bistro with pizzas, gourmet burgers, seafood and tapas – perfect for a meal before or during an event. Right next to it is a self-service café corner for burgers, fries and coffees. If you have time, head up Princes Street toward the Octagon (10–15 minute walk) and you’ll find dozens of eateries and bars: Italian trattorias, Asian fusion shops, craft breweries (e.g. the Malt Bar or Brothers Beer), and the lively Vogel Street Quarter with indie pubs and a brewery taproom. For pre-show dinner closer by, note there’s a Mexican small-plates bar (South American Grill) around the corner, plus the Greenside sub shop (Hour & Hyde) next door. After the show, late-night grub options include fast food in South Dunedin (e.g. Fish and Chips places staying open late) or heading back to town where kebabs and burger joints operate 24/7. In terms of accommodations, Errick’s unique on-site option is Errick’s Boutique Hotel – an award-winning design hotel attached to the venue (www.odt.co.nz ), bringing modern comfort steps from the concert. 649 Princes St (the same property) has four luxury studios you can book, ideal for out-of-town bands or concertgoers. If that’s full, central-city hotels like the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, Distinction Fortune, or Leveson Street’s Pod Hotel are all just 1–2 km away (brief taxi or bus ride). These offer easy walk/bus access back to Errick’s for late-night shows. Public transport runs into the early evening (with a limited late-night bus on some weekends), but after-midnight rides are mostly by taxi or Uber; the main taxi stand is on Cumberland/Nth. Railway near town. In summary: you’ll find on-site food (Ombrellos), a cluster of city restaurants a few blocks north, and convenient lodging either right at the venue or downtown for pre-/post-show stays.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike older Dunedin clubs, Errick’s was designed from the ground up as a music and event centre. Its wedding/reception chapel setup, conference AV, and hotel accommodations mean it’s more than just another concert hall. Yet it retains a cool “industrial chic” personality – original brick walls, polished concrete floors and string lights give it a loft-party vibe. People often note the contrast: a massive open dancefloor during gigs, but a glowing sunlit courtyard when it’s daytime. The backstory adds to the pedigree. Located in a 19th-century brewery/stables building, Errick’s carries the spirit of Dunedin’s craft-boom past while looking forward. (The old brew kettles have been cleared out, but the high arched doorways and loading docks remain.) The owners – the Oxley-Lobo family – are well-known local designers who’ve even won national design awards for the connected boutique hotel. They’ve put that sense of style into every corner of the venue. In essence, Errick’s matters because it answers a long-standing need in Dunedin: the city’s first large-capacity music hall in years. Local musicians and promoters had been clamouring for a 300+ capacity stage since venues like Sammy’s and Empire closed, and Errick’s filled that void (www.odt.co.nz ). Community leaders have kept a close eye: Save Dunedin Live Music spokesperson David Bennett praised it as a “major role” in rebuilding the live scene (www.odt.co.nz ). Culturally, Errick’s has already hosted some milestone events – from orchestral gigs with youth ensembles (bringing symphonic sound to the hall) to covering a long-lost Fringe festival program. Fans say the sound and sightlines are concert-hall great, despite being a club venue. Anecdotally, artists enjoy the professional gear (the in-house PA and backline) and the fact that hotel rooms and even a cafe are literally in the same complex. All these factors – a modern technical setup, a versatile community space, and a homegrown entrepreneurial spirit involving dozens of local crew – make Errick’s a stand-out. Many patrons leave saying it feels more like a well-designed club than an old pub, and that the “industrial lounge” ambience is unique. In short, Errick’s has quickly become a beloved Dunedin fixture because it was carefully built with the local music and arts community in mind, bringing new life, comfort and choice back into the city’s nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Errick’s is wheelchair-friendly. The main Crawford St entrance has wide double doors (up to 1.47 m open) and no internal stairs (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). Staff can move seating aside to make space lifts. The restroom off the hall includes an accessible stall with a changing table and grab rails (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). Service animals are welcome (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). Note that accessible parking spaces are not marked in the lot, but the path from the Princes St carpark through the courtyard is all wheelchair ramp. If mobility is a concern, ask a stopper or guard and they will assist – the ticket desk can escort you to the main foyer quickly after you arrive.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring photo ID if your show is 18+. Tickets or e-tickets are scanned via phone. You can bring small cameras and phones, but large DSLRs or video cameras usually aren’t allowed by bands. (Mistake to pack professional gear without clearance.) Only small bags or backpacks are fine – expect a light bag check. Avoid outside food or drinks (the bar and kitchen supply concessions). Earplugs can be handy if you’re sensitive to loud bass, as the sound system is powerful. It’s wise to bring cash just in case the bar lines are long (though cards are accepted). Keep layered clothing: the room can get hot when packed. Women often wear casual concert attire (jeans, sneakers), but since weddings/corporate events can also happen here, you might see dressier outfits on other nights. Errick’s has no enforced dress code, just dress sensibly for a public concert space.
Age Restrictions and Rules: Errick’s is licensed, so anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. (This rule is stated on the venue website as well.) Check each event’s listing: some are all-ages, but most rock/pop shows are 18+. If an event is R18, staff will check your ID at the door. Concert-goers should note there is no smoking allowed inside (it’s a fully indoor venue with glass doors). You also cannot re-enter once you leave, so plan ahead for bathroom or coat-check trips. Photography is usually limited to non-flash smartphone pics; if a professional photo pass isn’t arranged beforehand, assume no flash or video recording.
Arrival and Lines: Doors typically open 30–60 minutes before a show’s stated start, so you’ll often queue outside or in the courtyard. Weekends can draw larger crowds – if it’s a big name, lines start early. Arrive in plenty of time to find parking and pick up any tickets or armbands. Once you enter, you’ll find staff at a table near the door taking ticket stubs and ID, and offering simple directions inside. There’s usually no cloakroom, but ample space to hang jackets or prop them behind chairs. Restrooms are near the side bar; listen for announcements or signage.
Other Tips: Errick’s has a family-friendly vibe on matinee or festival days, but always double-check if a specific event is kid-friendly. Check the lighting and sound schedule: sometimes the stage lights are turned up fully during setup, and stagehands will do sound checks. Try to avoid standing right against the mixing desk or speakers if you prefer moderate volume. And lastly – soak it in! Errick’s was built for people to have fun: mingle, dance, explore the balcony view, and stay hydrated at the bar. Locals often praise how the venue feels safe and well-organized; it’s fine to ask a staff member if you have questions once inside. With a bit of prep (knowing the entry points and rules above), you’ll be set for a great experience at this unique Dunedin venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Errick’s Venue located?
Errick’s is at 218 Crawford Street in South Dunedin, just off the corner of Crawford & Princes Streets. (The official gig entrance is on Crawford St.) The site’s carpark and cafe face 649 Princes Street. Parking via Andersons Bay Rd which leads into the Princes St lot.
What is the venue’s capacity?
The main hall typically fits about 300 people for seated or standing shows. Media and promotional materials often cite up to 500 when using floor-standing only, but 300 is the usual safe capacity. This makes it a true mid-sized venue (bigger than a club, smaller than a stadium).
Is Errick’s wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The main entrance and performance floor are wheelchair-friendly. There are no steps on public routes inside, and one restroom is wheelchair-sized with an L-shaped support rail (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). Service animals are welcome too.
How do I get tickets and what do they usually cost?
Tickets are typically sold online through New Zealand ticket outlets (e.g. Moshtix). Check the venue’s website or local event listings for sales links. Prices vary: local band gigs can be as low as ~$15–20, while bigger touring acts might be ~$40+. Under-18 shows usually charge less. There’s no physical box office onsite, so plan to buy in advance or at the door.
Are there seat numbers or is it general admission?
For most music events Arrive early and choose your spot since Errick’s is mostly general admission. The dance floor has no fixed seating – you stand wherever. Some events (like sit-down dinners or conferences) do set up rows of chairs or tables in advance, but those will be ticketed specifically. There are also elevated side-platforms where you can stand and watch if you prefer.
What time should I arrive before a show?
Doors usually open 30–60 minutes before showtime. It’s best to arrive near the stated opening time, especially for popular shows, to queue and get in comfortably. Public parking and ticket scanning can add a few extra minutes, so plan accordingly. If you have general admission tickets, earlier arrival means better choice of standing/station spots.
Is there a coat check or lockers?
Errick’s does not have a formal coat-check, but there is space to hang or stow jackets near walls or chairs. For bulky items or valuables, it’s safest to keep them with you. Small bags and purses are allowed through security, but large backpacks may be checked on entry.
What food and drink are available inside?
The venue is fully licensed with a bar for beer, wine and spirits. Errick’s has a full café and bistro called Ombrellos on the Princes Street side serving meals (pizza, burgers, salads, mains). During events you can order from their menu or grab bar snacks. No outside food/drink is allowed. The café and bar usually open well before event start and stay open until after the show.
What is the parking situation like?
Errick’s provides a carpark off Princes Street (enter from Andersons Bay Rd). This is shared with the hotel and ADA access. Street parking is available nearby – on Princes, Crawford and surrounding roads – and is often free after 6pm or on Sundays (but watch for daytime meters). The nearest paid council car parks are a 5–10 minute walk away. Overall, arriving early is advised if you’re driving.
Which public transport goes near Errick’s?
Several Dunedin bus routes stop close by. For example, Orbus Route 12 and the City Link (Route 18) stop on Princes Street within a few minutes’ walk of the venue. If you take any southbound bus from the Octagon, ask the driver to let you off at Princes/Crawford. The Dunedin City Council’s Orbus site has full schedules. Taxis and ride-shares are common as well; just set drop-off to “218 Crawford St, Dunedin.”
Can minors (under 18) attend shows?
Minors are allowed only with an accompanying parent or guardian, since Errick’s is a liquor-licensed venue. Many family or all-ages events do happen here (especially Fringe and matinees). But regular concerts are typically 18+. Always check the specific event age limit and accompany your child if permitted.
What are the sound and technical capabilities?
Errick’s has a high-end in-house sound system: an Adamson S-Series PA (two main S10P cabinets plus four S119 subwoofers) mixed on a digital Midas M32 console (www.erricks.com ). They also provide four wedge monitors, DI boxes and a Shure microphone package. The lighting rig includes eight SlimPAR LED movers (www.erricks.com ). A sturdy 6×4 m stage with professional backline (amp stacks, keys, and a Tama drum kit) is available for bands (www.erricks.com ). In short, touring acts get top-tier gear and local bands can use most equipment on site.
Are there any special policies I should know?
Standard live-venue rules apply. No smoking or vaping indoors. Errick’s is a no-BYO venue – liquor is sold inside. Large bags may be searched or asked to be checked. Flash photography and videography are typically prohibited, especially for ticketed concerts. If you need to leave (e.g. to phone home), know that re-admission may not be allowed, so arrange your plans accordingly.
What should I know about restroom and other facilities?
There are gender-neutral bathrooms inside, one of which is fully wheelchair-accessible with a changing table and grab rails (dunedinfringe.webolution.co.nz ). They can be dimly lit for atmosphere (small LED strip lights on the ceiling). A quick note: lighting is kept low during shows, so allow extra time in the dark if you’re unfamiliar. There is no onsite coat-check, but staff will usually help you find a safe spot for your jacket. For any special concerns (medical, mobility, etc.), the staff at the entrance desk are happy to assist.
Is Errick’s indoor or outdoor?
Errick’s is primarily an indoor venue. The main event hall is enclosed in the old brewery building. There is a small covered outdoor courtyard on the Princes Street side (often used for breakouts or café seating) but performances are inside. The roof is solid, so you won’t be rained out during an event, and the venue isn’t affected by weather.
How early should I arrive, and is there a typical dress code?
Doors open typically 30–60 minutes before showtime. For busy nights (big concerts), arrive even earlier to find parking and queue. Dress is casual; concert-goers wear jeans, tees and comfortable shoes. Some people dress up a bit more for special shows or events, but there’s no strict dress code. Layered clothes are smart, since it can be cool on the street and warm inside once the crowd builds.
Are outside drinks or food allowed in the venue?
No – like most music venues, Errick’s prohibits bringing in your own alcohol or meals. There are bars and a kitchen on site to purchase drinks and snacks. Water bottles (empty to refill) and sealed beverages may be allowed, but always confirm with staff. It’s best to enjoy the offerings inside rather than try to sneak in outside items.
