About Fifty Gorillas
Fifty Gorillas is a unique live music bar and grill in central Dunedin, located at 66 Princes Street. It opened in 2018, converting the former Brimstone nightclub into a family-friendly restaurant by day and concert venue by night. Owner Ian Lindsay spent $50,000 on the refit (hence the playful name – “50 gorillas” being slang for £1,000) . The interior has exposed brick walls, recycled timber beams and even a serving counter made from a vintage Commer van – quirky design touches that give the place an authentic, industrial feel www.ticketfairy.com . Its capacity is roughly 150–200 standing (many sources estimate up to a couple of hundred) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . While it’s not a massive arena, this cozy, heritage-rich space is notable for its atmosphere – fans describe it as an intimate “clubhouse” for music lovers www.ticketfairy.com . In its first year the venue hosted about 100 bands , setting the tone for a lively schedule. Signature features include large-portion comfort food (have a burger, ribs or steak before a show) and a wide beer selection on tap. Patrons often praise the thick-cut pork ribs, burgers and even waffles on the menu . All of these elements make Fifty Gorillas stand out: a place that ties Dunedin’s Victorian-era infrastructure to the city’s modern indie-rock culture www.ticketfairy.com , and one of the few inner-city venues chiefly dedicated to original music and dance events. It has become a favorite among students and local music fans because it feels “underground” and authentic rather than corporate www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com .
Events and Programming
Fifty Gorillas hosts a very diverse lineup of shows and parties. You’ll find live band gigs ranging from indie rock, folk and pop-punk to metal and experimental acts, as well as frequent club nights with DJs spinning hip-hop, reggae, disco or EDM. The venue runs events almost every weeknight and especially on weekends or during university breaks. It’s common to see themed dance parties (retro 70s/80s nights, Halloween raves, student nights) alongside all-ages hip-hop jams and tribute bands. Touring acts regularly pass through on their regional circuits, and the stage often features up-and-coming Kiwi musicians – everything from acoustic solo acts to local rock bands. In fact, in its early days Fifty Gorillas was publishing almost a new monthly lineup to keep the program fresh www.ticketfairy.com . Long-running club residencies and charity fundraisers also pop up on the schedule from time to time. Because the space is relatively small, hosts try to offer something for everyone. One night you might dance in a disco club-party crowd, the next catch a Dunedin indie band with pop-up merch tables next to the stage. Many local musicians see it as an essential launchpad. Even with global acts, the vibe remains low-key – the venue prides itself on keeping Dunedin’s legendary indie “Dunedin Sound” spirit alive by featuring a steady presence of local talent www.ticketfairy.com . Cover charges depend on the event: small local gigs often cost only $10–$15, whereas larger tour stops or special events might be $20–$30 at the door www.ticketfairy.com . Doors for band concerts usually open around 7–8pm and the music starts shortly after, while late-night club nights tend to begin closer to 10pm. Because popular nights can sell out, it’s wise to keep an eye on the calendar and grab tickets or arrive early (many shows have done-after pre-sales) www.ticketfairy.com .
Tickets and Booking
Fifty Gorillas does not have a physical box-office window for walk-up sales. Instead, tickets are generally sold online through national and local ticketing sites or at approved outlets (often music stores or the University Arts building) www.ticketfairy.com . Keep an eye on Dunedin event listings, the venue’s social media feeds, or local music pages for announcements and sale dates. Many shows use major ticket platforms (e.g. Ticketek or Eventfinda) or specialized apps, and a small number of door‐sale tickets may be held back for the night of the event (cash and EFTPOS are accepted at the door) www.ticketfairy.com . Booking early is advised on popular gigs – if an advance continues to sell out, the venue usually posts an update or a presale offer on its Facebook/Instagram www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . In general, ticket prices are moderate: local student discounts or early-bird deals often bring an advance ticket (around $15) below the regular door price (around $20) www.ticketfairy.com . Special guests and festival nights will be towards the higher end of the $20–$30 range. Occasionally extra tickets are available right before a show, but for a safe bet buy well in advance when events are announced.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Fifty Gorillas is simple and standing-room focused. There are no permanent theatre-style seats – most concert-goers stand on the main floor directly in front of the raised stage www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . On the sides you may find a handful of tall stools or high tables for a bit of seating, but these fill up quickly. Some nights open up a narrow balcony or mezzanine platform at the back of the hall; this second level has only space for a few dozen people and serves as a vantage point (often also used as a smoking or equipment area) www.ticketfairy.com . For the best view and sound of the performers, many fans aim for centre stage. Front-and-centre on the ground floor is the most immersive place to watch (be prepared for crowds and loud sound there), while mid-floor is still close and slightly cooler in volume. The sides can have a partial obstruction if you stand edgewise, and the far corners of the room can lead to muffled acoustics. The venue’s PA system was upgraded in the 2018 renovation, so it delivers loud, clear sound with a heavy bass response www.ticketfairy.com . Note that the volume is strongest at front, so anyone sensitive to bass might prefer staying farther back where it’s quieter www.ticketfairy.com . There are no formal VIP sections – however, some events bring in portable risers or small raised seating platforms near the back (by the mixing desk) for family members or special guests www.ticketfairy.com . Overall, Fifty Gorillas feels like an intimate club: expect to be shoulder-to-shoulder on the concrete floor, or hover behind the soundboard area if you need a bit of room to breathe.
Getting There and Parking
Fifty Gorillas is centrally located in Ōtepoti (Dunedin) at 66 Princes Street, just a block south of the Octagon (the city’s main plaza). Princes Street is a primary north-south thoroughfare, so the venue is about midway between Moray Place and Filleul Street on the east side of Princes www.ticketfairy.com . It’s very easy to find by foot or car for anyone coming from the Octagon. If you drive, be aware that on-street parking in the CBD is limited and time-restricted. Paid metered spaces are available on Princes Street and surrounding roads, with core-city rates typically around $3.50 per hour (often only 1–2 hour maximum). For longer stays, consider nearby city carparks: for example, the Golden Centre carpark (hidden under the Octagon Mall at Princes/Octagon) or the Wilson Parking lots on Stafford and Lower Stuart Streets are both within a 5–10 minute walk www.ticketfairy.com . Always read the parking signage carefully to avoid fines. Rideshare and taxi are also practical: drop-off can occur on the main footpath in front of the building or at the corner of Dowling/Zetland Streets (just south of Princes) without blocking lanes www.ticketfairy.com . Dunedin’s public bus network (branded Orbus) serves the city center extensively. Several routes run along Princes Street or nearby (for instance, city buses stop at Princes/Stafford Street right beside the venue) www.ticketfairy.com . Check the Orbus timetable and use a Bee Card (reloadable transit card) or exact change for fares. Buses run frequently until about midnight; after gigs end (often around 12am–1am), bus service slows down, so many concertgoers opt to order an Uber (or use the local free app, Zoomy) or grab a taxi to get home safely www.ticketfairy.com . City taxi ranks are available around the Octagon. For cyclists, street bike racks are located a short walk away (for example on Lower Moray Place or around the Octagon) if you choose to bike in.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Fifty Gorillas, you’ll pass through a small foyer by a ticket desk where staff may scan tickets and do a quick security check of bags www.ticketfairy.com . Once inside, the main performance room has a dim, clubby ambience – the lights are low until showtime, with colourful stage lighting highlighting the performers. There’s usually an upbeat music track playing to set the mood before the band goes on. Off to one side (typically the left as you face the stage) is the main bar area. The bar menu focuses on local New Zealand brews (often Dunedin/Otago craft beers and staples like Speight’s or Monteith’s on tap), plus a selection of wines, ciders and basic spirits/cocktail options www.ticketfairy.com . On special nights you might even see themed cocktails listed for the occasion. The kitchen at Fifty Gorillas is primarily a grill; it closes around 9pm so that full menu items (burgers, steaks, ribs) can be served in the early evening . After that, food offerings inside become very limited – usually bar snacks like popcorn or toasted sandwiches only. It’s best to arrive a bit early if you want hearty dinner, or else plan to grab food nearby (many patrons eat on Princes Street before a late show).
The bar staff at Fifty Gorillas are generally quick and welcoming, but lines can form at peak times. Both cash and EFTPOS (credit/debit cards) are accepted, so it helps to have a few coins on hand for faster drink service www.ticketfairy.com . Toilets are accessed via a short hallway behind the main room. There are separate men’s and women’s washrooms with multiple stalls. Importantly for accessibility, the venue has at least one unisex, wheelchair-accessible toilet on the ground floor www.ticketfairy.com . The front entrance may have a small step or incline, but staff will gladly assist anyone in a wheelchair or using mobility aids to enter. In general, signage and layout follow New Zealand accessibility standards, so who require it should find facilities like ramps and toilets clearly marked.
Other amenities inside include a small merchandise table (usually near the entrance) where visiting bands sell CDs, T-shirts and posters, and the occasional venue tee or flyer collection. If you have outerwear, note that a coat check is sometimes provided for winter concerts (often for a small fee) www.ticketfairy.com . In dry months you may simply hang jackets on a rack or leave them under your table – space is tight, so try to travel light or use lockers in nearby bars if possible. Power outlets are located at the edges of the hall for equipment needs; if you must charge your phone during a show, politely ask a crew member for access. There’s no customer Wi-Fi in the building www.ticketfairy.com , but cellular service (Spark, 2degrees, Skinny etc.) generally works well even inside. In short, plan for a casual rock club experience: jeans and tee shirts are the norm, and sensible, closed-toe shoes are recommended since you’ll be standing on concrete. Dress for the weather too – lines often form outside before doors, and the Octagon area can get chilly at night, so layers are a good idea in cooler seasons www.ticketfairy.com .
Nearby Amenities
With its downtown location, Fifty Gorillas is surrounded by plenty of spots for dining or drinks. If you want a sit-down meal before a show, walk one short block north to The Octagon: George Street and lower Stuart Street have dozens of restaurants and pubs. For example, Coelho’s Brazilian Grill or The Bog Irish Pub on George Street offer hearty meals in a fun atmosphere, Asian diners on Stuart Street serve Thai or Vietnamese curries, and there are many modern cafes and bistros along Stuart and Cumberland Streets. For a quicker bite closer to the venue, Princes Street itself and adjacent lanes have a few take-out options – pizza slices, sushi bars, fish-and-chip shops and dessert stands are all within easy reach www.ticketfairy.com . If you’re still hungry after the gig, note that late-night eateries are nearby: Dunedin’s famous burger joint Crockatt & Powell and Filleul Street Bakery are just a block or two away and stay open late on weekends, and there are 24/7 food kiosks (like MOU’s and Turkish kebab stands) around the Octagon www.ticketfairy.com .
Need a drink before or after? The compact Octagon nightlife precinct is just steps away. Pubs such as The Octagon Hotel and nearby craft beer bars (St. George’s Bar, Speight’s Ale House, etc.) are within a short stroll of Fifty Gorillas www.ticketfairy.com . Even on Princes Street itself there are a few spots – for example, Ora Bar (a block north of the venue) is known for its Negronis and pizza, and there’s a wine bar and a jazz lounge further along Princes if you prefer a more relaxed vibe www.ticketfairy.com . The area also has taxi ranks around the Octagon, so catching a cab home is easy. In terms of parking and transit, as noted above there are city cycle racks and taxi stands near the Octagon www.ticketfairy.com , and if you’re staying overnight many Dunedin hotels are in range. Accommodations from upscale (the Distinction Hotel/Post Office building on Princes, modern Fable Hotel, Bank Suites/Scenic on Moray Place, Aspire apartments) to budget hostels are all within walking distance www.ticketfairy.com , so downtown hotels are convenient for giggoers.
What Makes This Venue Special
Fifty Gorillas stands out by blending a historic Dunedin building with a modern live-music experience www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Unlike a brand-new nightclub, it retains Victorian architectural charm – you’ll see old timber posts, a painted heritage facade and a warm-coloured interior that feels part warehouse, part speakeasy www.ticketfairy.com . Fans often note the gritty authenticity of the space: dark wood surfaces, local poster art and hand-painted logos give the impression of a DIY music den www.ticketfairy.com . It intentionally avoids a corporate look, serving instead as a “clubhouse” for Dunedin’s scene www.ticketfairy.com . Culturally, the venue is woven into Ōtepoti’s indie history. Dunedin is famous for its “Dunedin Sound” of jangly rock (Flying Nun-era bands like The Chills or The Clean), and Fifty Gorillas keeps that spirit alive by prioritizing local music. It’s one of the few inner-city venues primarily for original and alternative acts www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . The venue’s community vibe is also part of its charm – staff and regulars often mingle with visiting artists, and shows sometimes double as charity events or uni club fundraisers www.ticketfairy.com . This makes the place feel like a home for local music lovers, where people know the staff by name and might help roadies with gear. The history of Brimstone also adds a narrative: after Brimstone closed, Fifty Gorillas truly rejuvenated the corner with family dining transforming nightly to rock shows . For visitors, it’s rare to have an 18+ venue in a building from Dunedin’s gold-rush era, packed with modern sound and video gear – that intersection of old and new is why artists and audiences love it. In short, Fifty Gorillas is special for its unique décor and heritage, its nonstop calendar of eclectic events, and its warm, grassroots energy that celebrates Dunedin’s creative legacy.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is primarily on one level, and a small stair or ramp at the front door can be negotiated with help. There is at least one wheelchair-accessible toilet inside www.ticketfairy.com . If you need additional assistance or seating, consider arriving early and asking the staff – they are used to accommodating mobility needs.
What to Bring: If you plan to enjoy the bar, bring a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) for the 18+ age check www.ticketfairy.com , as any patron who looks underage will be asked to prove it. It’s a good idea to carry a little cash along with your card – the bar accepts EFTPOS, but having coins can speed up drink purchases during busy gig nights www.ticketfairy.com . Bring a layered jacket if it’s cold, since you may have to wait outside before doors open (the Octagon can be chilly). Closed-toe shoes are recommended for comfort and safety on the standing-room floor www.ticketfairy.com . Don’t plan to bring outside food or alcohol – security will dispose of it at entry www.ticketfairy.com . Large backpacks or luggage are also not allowed; if you do bring one, you may be asked to check it at the door or leave it outside (and often there’s a small fee for coat or bag check) www.ticketfairy.com . There is no re-entry policy, so once you go inside, plan to stay until the end of the event www.ticketfairy.com .
Age & Dress Codes: The crowd is usually casual. Jeans and band T-shirts or similar casual wear are typical. The only basic dress rule is practicality – as it gets packed and energetic, being on sturdy shoes is smart. There is no enforced dress code beyond common sense. Keep in mind that most events at Fifty Gorillas are 18+ (especially on weekends) www.ticketfairy.com . Some afternoon or all-ages shows do occur, but check the event listing to confirm. When in doubt, phone ahead or check online if a gig is 18+ ID-checked.
Arrival Time: Popular shows fill up quickly. For headlining acts or special events, arriving at opening time (or even earlier) is recommended if you want a front-row spot. Doors usually open about 30 minutes before showtime (7–8pm for bands, later for club nights) www.ticketfairy.com . Note that not all gigs are late-night affairs – especially on weekends you might see an early show kicking off by 7pm with teenagers admitted. Always verify the start time on your ticket or event page.
During the Show: The sound can be very loud. If you have sensitive hearing, bring earplugs (there’s no official hearing loop at this venue) www.ticketfairy.com . Smoking is only allowed in designated areas outside. Alcohol cannot be brought in from outside, but remember to drink responsibly – the next bus or taxi may have a wait late at night. Wi-Fi isn’t available for guests, so use your mobile data if needed. Lastly, tip-wise: it’s polite (though not required) to put a dollar or two into the tip jar when you order a drink, especially if it’s very busy, as the bar runs at full tilt during big sets.
How can I buy tickets for events at Fifty Gorillas?
Tickets are sold online through ticketing vendors or approved local outlets (like music stores or the university) – there’s no in-person box office at the venue itself www.ticketfairy.com . Check the venue’s social media or local gig calendars for sale dates. If tickets aren’t sold out, a few may be available at the door on the night of the show (cash and EFTPOS are usually accepted).
What are typical ticket prices at Fifty Gorillas?
Pricing varies by event. Many local or student-band gigs are inexpensive (often $10–$15) www.ticketfairy.com . Bigger national or touring acts and themed dance nights typically cost more, say $20–$30 at the door www.ticketfairy.com . It’s common to see early-bird or advance discounts – for example $15 online instead of $20 on the night www.ticketfairy.com . Always check the specific event poster or listing to see the price tiers and booking fees.
Does Fifty Gorillas have in-house seating or is it all general admission?
The venue is primarily general admission standing-room. There are only a few movable high tables or stools along the side walls; otherwise most people stand on the open floor facing the stage www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . On some nights a small upper-level area at the back can be opened for extra standing room, but it’s not fixed seating. Expect an intimate, up-close experience rather than assigned seats.
Where is Fifty Gorillas, and what are the parking options?
Fifty Gorillas is at 66 Princes Street, Dunedin Central – only a block south of The Octagon. On-street parking is metered (typically core-city $3.50/hour during weekdays ) and limited to short stays. For longer parking, try nearby public car parks such as the Golden Centre Garage under the Octagon Mall or Wilson parking on adjacent streets www.ticketfairy.com . There are also a few 2-hour paid spaces on Princes St. Be sure to read the signs. Alternative transit (bus, rideshare) is highly recommended when possible.
What buses or public transport serve Fifty Gorillas?
Dunedin’s Orbus bus network runs multiple routes through the city centre, several of which stop near Princes Street. The closest major stop is at the corner of Princes and Stafford Streets, just a block from Fifty Gorillas www.ticketfairy.com . Southbound routes (for example, numbers 4 and 7) stop around there. You can buy fares with a Bee Card or cash on board. After midnight the buses run very infrequently, so late-night rides are usually by taxi or rideshare.
How early should I get there for a sold-out show?
To get a good spot, plan to arrive at door-opening time, which is often 30–60 minutes before the advertised show start. For headline acts or weekend club nights, people often line up early. Doors for concerts usually open around 7–8pm (depending on the poster), while dance nights start around 10pm www.ticketfairy.com . Arriving early ensures you avoid missing the opener and gives you a choice of where to stand in the small space.
Are events at Fifty Gorillas all-ages?
Most Friday/Saturday night events at Fifty Gorillas are 18+ due to the alcohol license – you will need valid government ID to enter for those shows www.ticketfairy.com . However, some early-evening or special gig nights (especially on weekdays or Sunday afternoons) can be all-ages (sometimes teen-friendly acoustic shows). Always check the event listing: it will clearly say if a show is open to minors or strictly 18+.
Is Fifty Gorillas wheelchair accessible?
The main space is on one level, and there is at least one accessible/unisex toilet inside www.ticketfairy.com . The entrance has a small step, but a ramp is usually available (ask staff). The bar and stage area are flat once you get in, so a wheelchair user can move around the ground floor. (If you need assistance, the staff are happy to help patrons with mobility challenges.)
How many people fit inside Fifty Gorillas?
The capacity is roughly 150–200 people at full standing-room. It isn’t a large venue like a major arena, but it does pack in a few hundred when sold out www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Because there’s little fixed seating, a “full house” means everyone is shoulder-to-shoulder on the dance floor. When Alien Weaponry played there, about 285 people filled it to capacity .
Why is the venue called Fifty Gorillas?
The name comes from the owner’s renovation budget. When Ian Lindsay transformed the old Brimstone club into this venue, he only had $50,000 to spend on the fit-out . In British slang, a “gorilla” means £1,000. So $50,000 was “50 gorillas,” and the playful name stuck. Hence “Fifty Gorillas” became the new name of the place.
What time do shows usually start at Fifty Gorillas?
Concerts at Fifty Gorillas typically start in the early evening. For live music gigs, doors often open around 7–8pm and the first band plays soon after that www.ticketfairy.com . Dance or DJ nights usually start later (around 10pm). Some family-friendly or matinee shows can begin even earlier (for example, an afternoon gig or private event). Always check the advertised start time on your ticket.
Does Fifty Gorillas serve food and drink?
Yes – it’s a grill and bar. The kitchen serves dinner until about 9pm, offering large-portion meals like burgers, steaks and ribs (kids’ menus too) . After that, only bar snacks (popcorn, nuts or toasties) are available. The bar has local craft beers, standard New Zealand brews, and basic cocktails or spirits www.ticketfairy.com . Note that while eating is possible early, after 9pm it’s essentially a drink-only venue until closing.
Can I bring my own alcohol or food into Fifty Gorillas?
No. On arrival you’ll go through a bag check, and any outside food or drink (including alcohol) will be confiscated www.ticketfairy.com . This policy is strictly enforced, so it’s best to eat and drink before you enter. You can bring small personal items (like a jacket or non-bulky backpack) but remember bulky bags might be charged for coat-check or not allowed www.ticketfairy.com .
Are cameras or recording devices allowed at shows?
The general policy is no professional camera or recording setups without permission. Point-and-shoot photography for personal snapshots is usually fine, especially at smaller or local gigs – but try not to block other people’s view with your phone. Always check the posted rules for the specific event, as some music rights or touring artists may prohibit any recording. When in doubt, proceed quietly and politely if taking a quick photo.
Does Fifty Gorillas have a coat check or lockers?
They often do. During peak season or winter shows the venue typically offers a coat/bag check (sometimes with a token fee) www.ticketfairy.com . If there’s no formal check available, you’ll have to keep your belongings near you or hang them on one of the few racks. Lockers aren’t provided at the venue, but some patrons use nearby bars or their accommodation lockers if needed. In general, it’s best to bring just a small bag and wear your outer layers or store them in your car until after the gig.
What if I get separated from my friends during the show?
Cellular reception inside Fifty Gorillas is usually okay (Spark, 2degrees, etc.) so mobile phones should work. There’s no Wi-Fi for guests, so rely on mobile data or SMS. If you really lose each other in the crowd, a good meetup point is the bar area or the entrance foyer (both are easily visible). Staff can page a member or hold them at the entrance briefly if needed, but it’s safest to agree on a rendezvous in advance or text once inside.
