Events at Union Hall, University of Otago, Dunedin

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OUSA RE:ORI '22 - Dillon Francis

14 July 2022 Thursday / 08:00 PM

Union Hall, University of Otago, Dunedin

About Union Hall, University of Otago

Union Hall is a mid-size live‐music and events venue on the University of Otago’s Dunedin campus. Housed in the historic University Union building, it sits at **640 Cumberland Street** (North Dunedin) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). The hall can accommodate roughly **1,500–2,000 people** (sources cite about 2,000 in the union complex) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). It is part of the University Union / Staff Club complex (the Staff Club was built in 1907 (www.otago.ac.nz)), and has been modernised over the years – a $5.7 million renovation in 2011–2012 brightened and expanded the space (www.odt.co.nz) (www.cookbrothers.co.nz). (That upgrade even earned a Southern Architecture award (www.cookbrothers.co.nz).) Because it’s on campus it has a very “student-friendly” vibe. The University even notes the U-Bar nightclub there is “the go-to spot for epic student nights, with live music, DJs… and awesome parties” (www.otago.ac.nz). Union Hall’s role in student life is significant: it hosts major Orientation and Re-Orientation acts (e.g. Ladyhawke and Kora headlined its reopening in 2012 (www.odt.co.nz)), as well as year-round concerts and campus events. In short, Union Hall is one of Dunedin’s primary medium-to-large event venues – notable as a historic on-campus hall where both international touring bands and local acts play, and where the Otago student community gathers for big shows.

Events and Programming

Union Hall’s calendar is packed with live music, DJs and festivals nearly all year long. Genres range from alternative rock to heavy metal to electronic dance. For example, recent lineups have included Kiwi rock bands Skegss and The Feelers (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.eventfinda.co.nz), hard rockers like Devilskin (with sold-out NZ tours in 2018, 2021 and 2025 (www.eventfinda.co.nz)), and international electronic/D’n’B stars such as Wilkinson and Dimension (UK) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Big-name festivals (drum’n’bass nights UKF in 2023, for instance (www.eventfinda.co.nz)) and local talent showcases also fill its schedule. In all, visitors will see a mix of touring acts (often with local openers) and student-run events. Aside from concerts, Union Hall hosts cultural and student events. The OUSA student association frequently uses it during Orientation Week (past headliners include Ladyhawke and Kora (www.odt.co.nz)), and the hall has held things like food-stall festivals (e.g. a Food Truck “FEASTival” in 2020) and multi-cultural celebrations (“Culture Fest” in 2021 (www.eventfinda.co.nz)). Charity gigs, speeches or lectures also occasionally appear on the calendar. Depending on the event, ticket prices vary – smaller student‐run gigs might be ~$20–$40, outdoor DJ nights ~$50–$70, while major concerts can run up to NZ$100 or more. (For example, a 2021 Wilkinson show there had an R18 ticket for about $99 (www.undertheradar.co.nz).) Events are often classified R18, so the crowd is usually 18+ and IDs are checked at entry.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Union Hall shows are typically sold through official outlets. For major concerts and festivals, watch local ticketing agencies (or the event promoters) — and be ready to buy early for popular shows. The University-run Union Hall itself can’t seat walk-up buyers at a box office day-of, so tickets are usually pre-sold online or at ticketing shops. (One tip: Union Hall’s info phone is **(03) 479 3875** (www.eventfinda.co.nz) and box-office lines often sell out, so confirm details in advance.) Student group events (like OUSA orientation shows) may sell tickets in a university office or through OUSA. When tickets go on sale depends on the artist – big tours often announce months ahead, while smaller gigs or weekly club-nights might be announced just weeks in advance. If a show is likely sold out, occasionally a *small* number of tickets are held back for door sales or sold at the door, but this isn’t guaranteed. VIP or reserved seating is rare; most events are general admission. As booking is done by promoters, you’ll find ticket prices and categories listed on those outlets. A good strategy is to follow university social media or local music listings around “O-Week” or semester start, when many events are announced.

Seating and Layout

Union Hall itself is essentially one large hall with a stage at one end. It is most often set up as general admission (standing) floor area. There are usually **no fixed seats on the main floor** during concerts, so audiences stand and dance close to the stage. Off to the sides or back you might find some bar-height tables or a few chairs for parties, but don’t expect a formal seating plan. Some shows (like comedy or smaller gigs) might place chairs against the rear wall or on a balcony if used, but the norm is floor-standing. The venue does have a partial backstage/mezzanine level and may have balcony or sound booth areas (the renovation added a mezzanine level for study/social space (www.cookbrothers.co.nz)). Sound & lighting rigs are professionally installed, so acoustics are loud and typically bass-heavy – expect booming PA speakers and club-style lighting. The front-of-house (sound) area is usually at the back of the hall, with good sight-lines and balanced sound from there. As a result, some patrons prefer standing midway or near the rear (still in earshot) for a balanced mix and less crowd pressure, while fans near the front get the full visual experience at the cost of louder bass. There are no official VIP sections or premium seating – it’s a friendly club atmosphere.

Getting There and Parking

Union Hall is centrally located on campus. Its official address is **640 Cumberland Street** (www.eventfinda.co.nz), at the corner of Cumberland and Union Streets in North Dunedin. From downtown (the Octagon), it’s about a 15–20 minute walk up Stuart/Union/Castle Street. If driving, be warned that campus parking is very limited. The University’s parking policy advises visitors to use **on-street parking** rather than campus lots (www.otago.ac.nz). There are paid street meters on Cumberland and Union near the Union Building (usually 2–4 hour limits), and larger paid car parks on nearby streets (e.g. Moray Place Carpark or Wilson’s Stuart Street parking). Several city bus routes serve North Dunedin. Major routes like the Orbus 14 (Port Chalmers to City) and 77 (Mosgiel Express) run past Cumberland and Castle Streets, with stops at the University intersection (moovitapp.com). The University Bus Hub (Stops C, D, etc.) is a small walk from Union Hall. In practice, you can take any Dunedin city bus that travels along Great King St or Cumberland St and ask to get off at the campus stops. Taxis or rideshares (Uber/Lyft) can drop off directly outside the Union building. Finally, students sometimes bike; there are bike racks around campus. Note that on busy event nights (especially weekends) traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for travel.

Inside the Venue

Once inside Union Hall, expect a casual, rowdy concert atmosphere. Security staff typically check tickets and IDs (if required) at the door. Bag searches are common for large events, so bring only essentials. There is usually a **bar** or refreshment stand along one side of the hall where you can buy water, soft drinks and sometimes beer/cider (drink purchases use ID). Larger shows often have merchandise tables near the entrance selling band tees and memorabilia. Keep in mind halls can get warm when packed; dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Facilities inside the building include restrooms (usually at the rear or side of the hall) and possibly a cloak check during big events (check with door staff once you’re inside). As a university venue, Union Hall does not typically have public Wi-Fi for concerts, so cell coverage may be spotty; it’s best not to rely on online streaming of tickets or media inside. The atmosphere is informal and energetic – expect crowds dancing or stage-diving at rock events. House lights remain low during shows (some strobe or laser lights may be used), so use handrails on stairs. Exiting can be slow at the end of an event, so plan to wait a few minutes for the crowd to clear.

Nearby Amenities

Union Hall is surrounded by campus amenities and city eateries. Inside the same Union building you’ll find the **Staff Club café & bar** (open to all) (www.otago.ac.nz) and the lively **UBar** nightclub (www.otago.ac.nz), both good for a pre-show drink or bite. Just across the lawn there’s also the university campus food court (Hawkers Alley in the Link building offering street-food stands). Stepping off campus, the Castle and Cumberland Street areas have plenty of restaurants and bars within a short walk. You’ll find casual cafés, pizza shops, Indian and Asian restaurants, and pubs that cater to students. For example, popular spots include the Student-Nation Asia Café on Castle St (cheap curries), Winston’s Pizza on Cumberland, and nearby gastropubs on Great King Street. If you need groceries or drinks, there’s a bottle store on Union or the campus convenience store. For a sit-down meal, options range from pub fare at The Rat or Popeye’s Bar to modern cafés in the Octagon area, all about 10–15 minutes walk. Several hotels are also nearby: the Swiss-Belhotel (on Cumberland St) or Distinction Dunedin are a short walk away if staying overnight. Late-night transport back to town is usually available (rideshares or taxi), and there is a DCC transit stop just off campus. As a tip, arriving an hour or two early lets you enjoy a meal or drink without rushing – the campus is lively and safe during events.

What Makes This Venue Special

Union Hall has a unique character born of its history and campus location. It’s a former student union hall (upgraded in 2012) that has become a cherished live music spot. For Dunedin locals, it’s the place to experience big concerts in an intimate student-run setting. As OUSA veteran Logan Edgar noted at the 2012 reopening, the revamped Union Hall is an “amazing” new asset to student life (www.odt.co.nz) – blending a café-bar atmosphere with a genuine concert hall on ground. Its architectural charm (a blend of old brick from 1907 and modern glass/concrete) earned awards (www.cookbrothers.co.nz) (www.cookbrothers.co.nz) and gives the venue a friendly, open feel. Culturally, Union Hall sits at the heart of Dunedin’s music scene. For touring bands, playing here means energised student crowds (the so-called “Scarfie” vibe) and rave reviews of the hall’s sound and lively audience. Many New Zealand musicians say Dunedin crowds are passionate, and Union Hall’s loyal audience helps acts put on their best show. Conversely, locals know they might see an artist here before they hit larger NZ venues. The mix of student nights (DJs and parties) with serious concerts makes it beloved by both clubbers and music fans. It’s also one of the few indoor mid-sized venues in town – bridging smaller bars and the giant Forsyth Barr Stadium – which makes it strategically important for Dunedin’s cultural calendar. In short, Union Hall is special because it embodies Otago’s campus spirit: historic yet hip, “student-friendly” yet professional. People rave about its atmosphere and the convenience of a concert on campus. Many Dunedinans have memories of famous performances here (even Ladyhawke’s show was a headline event (www.odt.co.nz)). It’s the kind of place where artists and audiences feel like part of a community – whether it’s a packed dance night or an acoustic gig – and that local connection gives every show a bit of extra buzz.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Yes. University campus buildings are largely wheelchair-accessible. Union Hall is on ground level (with ramp access) and has marked accessible toilets. If you need assistance, event staff can help with any special needs.
What to bring: Bring your ID (for age-check and ticket pickup), some cash or card for drinks/food, and earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud bass. A small clear bag is fine (large backpacks may not fit through gate checks). Also wear comfortable shoes (crowds can dance/stand for hours).
When to arrive: Doors often open about 30–60 minutes before showtime. Arriving early is wise for popular gigs – you can secure a good spot and avoid last-minute queues. Late arrival may leave you waiting in line or stuck at rear entrances.
Age restrictions: Many events at Union Hall are 18+ (R18) due to licensing. Check the event poster: if it says R18, only adults may enter. Under-18s can attend public meetings or lectures, but concerts are usually age-restricted.
Prohibitions: Generally no outside food or drinks, no weapons or illegal substances, and often no professional camera gear (personal cameras/phones are usually fine). Large bags, tripods, and selfie sticks may be disallowed for safety. Recording devices (audio/video) are typically not permitted at shows.
Dress code: None formal – it’s a casual student venue. Come as you are, though many club events see fans dressed for the style of music (smart casual for comedy or acoustic nights, street-wear for dance events). Don’t wear anything that will obstruct others’ view.
Getting updates: Follow University Union social media or the Otago Students’ Association (OUSA) pages, as they often post news of upcoming shows. You can also sign up for announcements from local event sites (OUSA or RedRUM Festivals).
Local laws/culture: New Zealand enforces strict drink-driving and smoking rules. Smoking is not allowed inside the building; step outside to designated areas during breaks. Surrounding streets are mostly one-way or pedestrian-only lanes, so heed local signs. Respect the campus quiet hours late at night.
Emergency: In case of emergency, exits are well-marked and staff will guide you out.

How many people does Union Hall hold?

Union Hall’s capacity is roughly 1,500–2,000 people. It’s not an exact number, but listings note about 2,000 including all floor and balcony areas (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Standing-room concerts usually fit about 1.5K–1.8K guests depending on layout.

Where is Union Hall located?

Union Hall is on the University of Otago campus at 640 Cumberland Street, Dunedin (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.setlist.fm). It’s at the corner of Cumberland and Union Street in North Dunedin (near the clocktower). Look for it next to the Staff Club and UBar.

How do I buy tickets for shows?

Tickets are sold through the event promoters and local ticketing agencies, not on site. Check the concert or event’s official advertising – usually online vendors or hotlines. For University/Student Association events, contact OUSA or Union Hall directly (08503-479-3875 (www.eventfinda.co.nz)). There is no box office at the door, so buy advance tickets when announced.

How much do tickets cost?

Prices vary by show. Small local gigs or student nights might be very affordable (around NZ$20–$40), whereas overseas DJs or big-name concerts can reach $70–$100 or more. For example, one Wilkinson show at Union Hall was listed at NZ$99 (www.undertheradar.co.nz). Check the specific event listing for pricing and booking details.

How and when should I buy tickets for popular shows?

Get tickets early! High-demand events often sell out fast. As soon as sales open (often weeks or months before a show), purchase through the official seller. Keep an eye on the University Union or OUSA social feeds for announcements. Premium seats or VIP versions might sell even sooner. Don’t wait for “day of” unless explicitly offered as door sales (rare for big shows).

Does Union Hall have numbered seating or is it general admission?

Union Hall is mostly a general-admission venue. For concerts and parties, people stand on the floor; chairs are rarely set up except in special cases. There are no fixed seat numbers or premium boxes. If you download a ticket that says “General Admission”, that means first-come standing. Arrive early to get a good spot in that case.

What is the seating layout like?

Picture a large rectangular hall with a raised stage at one end. The audience area is essentially open floor with no permanent seating. There is a small mezzanine or balcony section and sound booth area at the rear, but most people stand on the ground floor. The stage overlooks the crowd. If you prefer a quieter spot, the back corners or mezzanine (when open) are the calmest; front center is rowdiest and nearest the performers. Overall it’s a flat-floor club setup rather than a tiered theatre.

What public transport goes near Union Hall?

Several Dunedin bus routes stop close by. For example, city buses on routes 14, 18, 37, 50 and 77 serve North Dunedin at the University (moovitapp.com). The closest stops (the University Bus Hub) are a short walk from Cumberland St. In practice, any bus running through Great King or Cumberland Street can drop you near the Union. You can also use rideshare (Uber/taxi) to 640 Cumberland St directly.

Are there parking options at Union Hall?

On‐site parking is very limited (mostly reserved for staff). The University advises visitors to use **on-street metered parking** around campus (www.otago.ac.nz). You’ll find paid parking on Cumberland, Castle, Stuart and Moray Place nearby. There are also commercial lots (like Wilson’s on Stuart Street). Plan to arrive early, as getting a spot on a busy night can take time.

Is Union Hall wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The Union Building (including Union Hall) has wheelchair access. There are ramps or level entrances at the front, and an elevator inside for any mezzanine levels. The venue provides a wheelchair space in the audience (ask staff when you arrive). Accessible toilets are available in the building. If you have specific mobility needs, contact the venue ahead of time to ensure assistance on arrival.

Can I bring food or drink into Union Hall?

Generally no outside food or international drinks. For most events, only bottled water or personal snacks are allowed. The venue has an internal bar/refreshment stand where you can buy drinks and light snacks. If you bring food or liquids from outside, security will usually ask you to finish or dispose of them before entry. It’s best to eat beforehand or purchase on site.

Is there a coat check or lockers?

Sometimes. At larger events or winter concerts, the venue may set up a coat check inside. Availability isn’t guaranteed for every show (it depends on staff). If you need to store valuables, see door staff as soon as you enter and ask if a coat check is running. There are no coin-operated lockers. Plan to carry small belongings in a compact bag if possible, since cloakrooms can close early or handle limited capacity.

What can I bring with me?

Small personal items (phone, wallet, keys) are fine. Bottled water or clear plastic drinks bottles are usually allowed. Cameras or phones for personal photos/videos are generally OK, but professional DSLR cameras, tripods or voice recorders are often prohibited. Avoid large backpacks or bulky items – you may be asked to leave them at coat check or vehicle. Umbrellas and selfie sticks are ruled out for safety.

Is photography or filming allowed?

Generally, personal snapshots and smartphone videos are allowed. However, professional video cameras, SLR cameras, and recording equipment are typically forbidden by venue policy. Each event may have its own rules (check signs at entry). If in doubt, ask a staff member. Note: Flash photography can distract performers, so strobe or flash is usually discouraged during concerts.