About Yours
Yours (sometimes called Yours Cafe & Venue) is a worker-owned co-operative café and live arts space at 43 Moray Place in central Dunedin (localista.co.nz ). It opened in December 2022 as the first project of the Ōtepoti Possibilities Co-operative, a grassroots group committed to anarchist principles, DIY culture and consensus decision-making (www.odt.co.nz ). The co-op describes the site as a “worker-owned and managed cafe/venue that imagines a better food system” while providing space for radical action, music, art and co-operation (www.odt.co.nz ). In practice this means the venue operates on co-op values: decisions and profits are shared among members, volunteer labour is welcomed, and there is a strong emphasis on inclusivity and community. The vividly painted interior – complete with slogans like “Be Gay, Do Crimes” stencilled on the floor – reflects the anarchist, countercultural character of the space (www.odt.co.nz ).
Unlike many bars or pubs, Yours has purposely avoided obtaining an alcohol licence so that it can remain an all-ages hub. By day it functions as a café (open roughly Wednesday–Sunday afternoons/evenings, per posted hours (localista.co.nz )) serving ethically sourced, largely vegetarian fare – even homemade nut milks and split-pea hummus – on a pay-what-you-can basis (www.odt.co.nz ) (au.rollingstone.com ). In the evening and on special event nights, the front is cleared to make room for performances. Signature features include communal seating, low lighting and art decals, giving it a relaxed, DIY vibe very different from a corporate chain or white-tablecloth restaurant. In short, Yours is notable for being centrally located yet run like a true local co-op: a cafe by day, a vibrant counterculture venue by night, and a rare experiment in “post-capitalist” community business in Dunedin (www.odt.co.nz ) (www.odt.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Yours hosts a wide variety of events across music, theatre, magic, games and community gatherings, typically several times a week. Recurring headline offerings include The Revolution – a monthly drag revue that often draws a festive, Pride-inclusive crowd (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) – as well as fan-favorite tribute concerts, open-mic nights, poetry slams and comedy shows. In 2023–2025 the program featured local indie bands, punks, metal and emo acts, an acoustic singer-songwriter matinee series called “Silent Night” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), and even experimental pieces (for example, a live ASMR performance highlighted in the Dunedin Fringe Festival lineup). The venue’s lack of an alcohol license makes it a natural host for all-ages events – families and youth can attend afternoon rock or cabaret shows that run alongside its usual coffeehouse ambience (au.rollingstone.com ).
Past notable events at Yours have ranged from sci-fi-themed drag shows (“Extradimensional”), multilingual concerts, to local film nights and community meetings. Pride month often sees expanded programming, such as the “Pride Edition” drag show in March 2025 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The community-curated nature of the venue means music genres on offer are broad: posters have advertised hardcore punk, indie rock, jazz ensembles and even children’s storytelling hours. Ticket prices are equally eclectic: small shows often ask for a low-cover or koha (donation) at the door, with unwaged (student/concession) tickets sometimes as cheap as a few dollars (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Larger touring acts or themed events can command higher prices (e.g. covers of popular Western acts like Diesel or cover bands may be priced in the $20–30 range). Many events also run presales via local platforms or at the venue, but drop-in door sales are common if capacity allows. In short, Yours’s schedule is eclectic and community-driven, reflecting its ethos as an accessible, collective arts center rather than a commercial nightclub.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Yours are usually sold through local outlets and the venue’s own channels rather than large commercial sites. Promoters often list shows on platforms like Eventfinda or on social media, and some events carry an online presale option (especially for popular drag shows or bigger gigs). For many community-run shows, no presale is offered and guests simply pay at the door. There is typically a small fee or koha requested at entry, with special rates for students/unwaged and “festival door sales” at many shows. If a show sells out, it’s worth following the venue on Instagram or email newsletters, since sometimes promoters will release a few extra tickets via local outlets or notify on social media when standing room is available. In practice, competition for tickets is moderate: being a smaller venue (capacity often under 100), major acts can sell out quickly, whereas casual open-mic or fringe events often have plenty of room.
When booking, note that Yours has no traditional box office or telephone ticket line. Options are typically to order through an event listing (e.g. as part of Dunedin Fringe or via local ticketing pages) or simply arrive early and purchase on entry. For recurring events (like the monthly drag or the Once-A-Night reading series), organizers often announce ticket links about a month in advance. As with other intimate Dunedin clubs, arriving early for popular shows is advisable. Card payment is usually accepted at the door for tickets and café items, but some smaller benefits and volunteer-run gigs may still prefer cash/koha. Refund and exchange policies vary by event – many carnivorous community events simply operate on a trust policy (“tickets nonrefundable, but guests can often sell their spot via social media if unable to attend”).
Seating and Layout
The interior of Yours is typically arranged as an open-plan cafe with moveable tables and chairs, all centered around a small stage area at one end of the room. By default, seating in the day consists of benches and tables for dining and coffee service. For performances, these are often pushed aside to clear standing space (or re-arranged for ad-hoc seating) so that audiences can gather close to the stage. Because the venue is small, sightlines tend to be good from almost anywhere; there is no separate balcony or upstairs patron area. Architects of the space deliberately built the stage into a basement-level room to help contain sound, so the performance floor is slightly sunken relative to the entrance. (au.rollingstone.com )
In a typical gig layout, the best views of performers are from near the front of the stage, but loudspeakers on stands to either side ensure even the back of the room gets clear audio. Stools or cushions may be provided for part of the audience, but many events are essentially general admission (guests stand or sit on the floor near the stage). There is no fixed seating numbering or VIP booth, though for cabaret-style drag events some low tables might be reserved near the runway-end of the stage. Acoustics are surprisingly good for a small brick-and-mortar venue; the co-op has added insulation and sound dampening over time, partly to avoid neighbor complaints (au.rollingstone.com ). Overall, any spot in the room allows a good view of shows. (Patrons needing quiet space or wheelchair access should note that flooring is smooth, but the restroom is up a short flight of stairs with a 700mm door (www.dunedinfringe.nz ).)
Getting There and Parking
Yours sits in the heart of Dunedin’s city center, so it’s easy to reach on foot from many parts of town. The official address is 43 Moray Place (corner of Moray and Lower Stuart streets). If coming by car, note there is *no* private lot, but metered street parking is plentiful in the immediate area. There is also a multi-storey public car park nearby on Moray Place a block away, with reasonable hourly rates. Coffee and early-evening events often allow parking on Moray Place or the adjacent Princes/George Street (town center) once the meter times have passed. Visitors should brace for a walk of about 100m from the nearest parkade, though evening parking is free on most Dunedin streets after 6pm.
Public transit connections are straightforward. Long-distance coach (InterCity) buses stop at the Southern Dunedin terminal on Lower Stuart Street (three blocks from Yours). The Dunedin city bus network also provides routes via Princes St or Great King St; the closest stops are on Princes St (e.g. outside the Dunedin Railway Station) about 200m away. Major bus lines like the Purple, Green or Orange routes pass within a few minutes’ walk of Moray Place. Rideshare apps and taxis can drop off directly on Moray Place (there is space to stop briefly at the front door). Driving directions from the Octagon are simply: head onto Moray Place (the large round road encircling the Octagon green). Pedestrians coming from the railway or Octagon can use the Moray Place walking path or the underpass at William St/Stuart St, reaching Yours within a 5–10 minute walk.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Yours, expect an open, friendly vibe. The front door opens into a brightly painted café area with communal tables on one side and a small barista counter on the other. In normal operation (especially daytime), staff greet you and seat you wherever you like. The atmosphere is casual – staff often wear t-shirts and aprons, and regular patrons tend to chat with each other intimately. Because the venue runs non-traditional pricing, you may see chalkboard menus or hand-written cards listing “Koha Bowls” or “Not-For-Profit Coffee” on the menu. On performance nights, the staff clear space and often secure any leftover coffee equipment; in such cases they act more like club attendants taking cover charges at the door.
Entry procedures are minimal. There is usually a person at a makeshift check-in table or the door handing out tickets or wristbands after payment. Security bags-checking is not the norm, since many events are volunteer-run, but you will usually be asked to keep your beverage at your table or hand it to staff for safekeeping during a show. Photography is generally allowed (no fixed flash ban); however, given the informal community spirit, concert-goers tend to snap casually without formal flash or turn-taking training crews. The house sound technician (often a co-op member) runs a small PA and laptop-based music board at the side of the stage during gigs. Lighting is usually basic – a few colored floodlights or a disco ball effect hung above the stage – but is quite adequate for the intimate scale of the room.
Food and drink service operates primarily at a counter near the entrance. During shows, this remains open as a cash (or card) bar serving coffee, tea, kombucha, beer alternatives (e.g. craft sodas), and toasted sandwiches or vegan pastries. Expect a short queue during intermissions, but lines move quickly. There is no coat-check, so best to leave large bags in your vehicle or keep them at your feet. Free Wi-Fi is usually available (ask staff for the network name), making the venue friendly for students or visitors needing connectivity. Restrooms are at the back past the stage; note they are not wheelchair-accessible (three steps up) (www.dunedinfringe.nz ). The small merchandise table near the exit often carries local band CDs, prints and recycled metal jewelry. Service dogs are welcome, and staff are typically attentive to accessibility concerns. Finally, the overall feeling inside is warm and inclusive – many visitors note the non-judgmental, family-like atmosphere cultivated by the co-op.
Nearby Amenities
Yours is surrounded by one of the liveliest sections of Dunedin’s city center, so there is no shortage of places to eat, drink or stay close by. For pre-show dining, the Octagon (just a block south) has a wide range of restaurants and cafés: casual spots like The Bard’s Pizza, Olveston Historic Home tea rooms, or retro-chic venues on the Octagon itself. The Bath Street end (around 2 blocks east) also has popular eateries, pub-grill outlets and gelato shops. After a show, you’ll find local bars within walking distance: Hippopotamus, Woof!, and Zanzibar bar (all on Moray and nearby Lower Stuart) serve beers and cocktails late into the evening if you want to carry on the night (recall Yours itself does not serve alcohol). There are also 24-hour food trucks and late-night bakeries on nearby streets for a quick snack.
Several hotels and hostels are within a 5-minute walk of Yours. Closest are the Novotel Dunedin (3 min walk) and Distinction Hotel on lower Stuart Street, plus boutique guesthouses near the Octagon. If you’re coming from out of town, the Dunedin Backpackers on Camp Street is a budget pick a few blocks away. Public parking signs and ATMs are common on Moray Place, and taxis stand by most nights in the Octagon. For planning purposes, many locals advise arriving 30–45 minutes before a big show to allow time for dinner, parking and grabbing a coffee – Bedford Street/Katherine Street side lanes can fill up.
What Makes This Venue Special
Yours stands out in Dunedin for its radical identity and community ethos. It isn’t just another café or bar; it’s a living example of an alternative economic model. As the first “anarchist cafe” in Ōtepoti/Dunedin, it has made news as a “radical action centre” with murals and signs that openly celebrate LGBTQ and left-wing culture (www.rnz.co.nz ) (www.odt.co.nz ). The co-op’s grassroots origin story – a Kickstarter campaign that appealed to local patrons’ desire for more independent gigs – speaks to the strong DIY arts tradition in Dunedin. Local media and arts bloggers have noted that Yours fills a gap left when other DIY venues closed, giving small bands and activists a new home again (au.rollingstone.com ) (au.rollingstone.com ).
Architecturally the building itself is modest (a former Asian restaurant), but the way the co-op has customized it is striking: bright murals, reclaimed tables, and a forest-themed mural or map on the back wall (added by volunteers) give it an earthy “found community space” feel. Culturally, Yours’s contributions have been significant: it regularly partners with Dunedin festival events, offers rehearsal space to local theater groups, and hosts free community workshops. Its “pay what you can” model means that art and food are accessible regardless of income, aligning with Dunedin’s strong values of egalitarianism. For artists and audiences alike, Yours is beloved as a safe, inclusive gathering spot – one co-op member put it as “people say they feel seen and welcome here.” The combination of signature drag revue nights, politically-charged shows and homestyle meals (like koha soup or B-grade vegan pizza) has already made Yours a key part of Dunedin’s nocturnal culture in just a few years.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The front entrance has a gentle ramp (no steps) and 890mm-wide doors, making it wheelchair accessible from the street (www.dunedinfringe.nz ). Inside seating is on one level, but note the only bathroom is up a short flight of steps. Service animals are welcome. Entry and Bag Policies: Light backpacks or groceries are usually fine; for big shows a quick bag check (by staff at the door) may be asked if it’s crowded. No outside alcohol is permitted. Phones and Cameras: Feel free to use phones quietly; flash photography is generally okay as it is a community vibe venue (just avoid shining direct light into performers’ eyes).
Age Restrictions: Because Yours doesn’t hold an alcohol licence, most events are open to all ages (often under-18s attend clear-out concerts or family shows). Some drag performances or late-night concerts are officially R18, and in those cases younger audiences may not be admitted (and they are clearly labeled on posters). Always double-check event listings if attending with kids. Parking: See above – street parking can be limited in evenings, but a 2-minute walk can find free parking after 6pm or pay parking nearby. Weather: There is no covered outdoor smoking or waiting area, so plan accordingly (in winter Dunedin can be chilly – the venue is warmed by gas heaters but bringing a light coat indoors is common). Payment: The café and bar primarily accept card, but it’s wise to have some cash/coins for tips on small items or very informal events. Tap water is always available for free.
Getting There: Double-check the address (43 Moray Place, on the corner facing Lower Stuart). If arriving by day it can feel like walking into a quiet cafe; by night, look for a crowd or a simple sign lighting the entrance. If using the railway station, go up the hill via the underpass (William Street) and cut along Moray Place westward – it’s about a 10-minute walk. On bus days, ask to get off on Princes St near Cockburn Street and head west a block; on live-music nights locals often share Uber rides from Onehunga Mall out. Line up early: for sold-out shows it helps to get in line before doors (sometimes held in the adjacent hallway) to grab a good spot.
Etiquette: The crowd at Yours is famously friendly. People usually chat with strangers and there’s rarely any strict dress code – comfort is king (you’ll fit in equally well in jeans or band-T). Bring your open mind: the audience is diverse (including students, families, queers, and artists). It’s a community space, so feel free to say hi to co-op members or performers during breaks. Note that the kitchen menu can sell out on busy nights, so grabbing food early is smart. Finally, the co-op culture means feedback is welcome – patrons sometimes help out with clearing rubbish or washing dishes after events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating layout at Yours? Is it general admission or reserved?
Yours has a flexible, open layout. By day it functions like a communal café with tables and benches. For shows, tables are often moved aside and it operates as general admission: people stand or use loose chairs near the stage. There are no fixed reserved seats or numbered tickets – arrive early to choose a good spot if you want to sit. Sightlines and sound are good from most areas in the room.
What is the capacity of Yours, and how crowded does it get?
Yours is a small, intimate venue (typically under 100 people). The exact capacity varies with room setup, but many live gigs are capped at 80–100 attendees. On busy nights it will feel packed, but still much cozier than a large club. For popular events (like monthly drag shows or sold-out bands), it’s wise to arrive early – doors often open 30 minutes before start. Smaller community events might only draw a few dozen people.
Does Yours have an alcohol licence? Can I drink fizzy beer?
No – Yours deliberately chose not to get an alcohol licence to keep the space inclusive. That means they do not serve beer, wine or spirits. They do offer non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, kombucha and soda on tap. Some visitors bring their own babies or teenagers without worry since it’s all-ages friendly (aside from specific R18 events which will state that on the poster).
Is Yours wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main entrance to Yours is wheelchair-friendly (no steps and a ramp leads into the café) (www.dunedinfringe.nz ). However, note that the restrooms are up a short flight of stairs and therefore not wheelchair-accessible. Inside, the performance floor is on one level. Service animals are welcome. If you have specific needs, it’s a good idea to contact the staff ahead of time (they’re very accommodating).
Where is Yours located and how do I get there?
Yours is at 43 Moray Place, Dunedin (near the Moray Place–Lower Stuart Street corner). It's in the CBD about a block north of the Octagon. You can walk from the Octagon via Princes/William St or through the Southern walkway from the railway station. Several bus routes stop on nearby Princes Street. If you're driving, look for street parking meters on Moray Place – after 6pm parking is free on most central streets. There’s also a public car park a short walk away on Moray Place.
How much do tickets typically cost for events at Yours?
Ticket prices at Yours vary by event. Many shows are “koha” events or have low cover charges (often under $10) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Student or unwaged tickets can be as low as $5–10, while general admission for headliner gigs or special drag events might go up to $20–30. Some themed or benefit shows may ask for a donation instead. Always check the event listing for pricing; in many cases you can pay a reasonable donation or buy online ahead of time.
Can I buy tickets at the door, and what if a show is sold out?
For most events, yes – tickets or entry fees can be paid at the door, cash or card. If an event is sold out (especially larger gigs or drag shows), it typically sells out in advance. In that case, some people advertise extra tickets on local social media groups, or occasionally the organizers will release a small standby line at door time. It’s best to arrive early for popular shows. Following the venue’s social feeds or newsletter can alert you to last-minute ticket releases or livestream links if available.
Are outside food and drinks allowed inside Yours?
Generally, no. Yours encourages you to try their menu items – house-made pastries, sandwiches and non-alcoholic drinks – which support the co-op. Bringing in outside food or drinks (especially alcohol) is not permitted. This helps them stay solvent since they don’t sell alcohol. If you have dietary restrictions, you can ask staff; they often accommodate (for example, one can bring a homemade snack if informed, since many patrons volunteer ingredients to the kitchen). But plan on purchasing at least a drink or coffee inside.
Is there a dress code or can I wear anything to a show at Yours?
Yours has no strict dress code – it’s very casual. People typically wear jeans, T-shirts, sweaters or whatever is comfortable. It’s an anti-establishment space, so punk, goth, queer festival or everyday streetwear all fit right in. The main consideration is comfort and respect for others (avoid drinks on the dance floor, etc.). Some older audiences might dress a bit nicer for certain shows, but jeans/Gore-tex or band tees at a punk show are equally normal here.
Is there an age restriction for events at Yours?
Most events are open to all ages since there is no bar license. Families and under-18s often attend afternoon gigs or daytime arts workshops. However, some evening events (especially certain drag shows or very late rock gigs) are officially R18 – these are clearly noted in publicity. If an event is R18-only, the doors staff will check ID at entry. Otherwise, feel free to bring anyone aboard; it’s intended as a community space, not a private nightclub.
Does the venue have Wi-Fi and charging facilities?
Yes, Yours offers free Wi-Fi (network details posted inside or on request). Wi-Fi can be intermittent during busy periods, but generally good enough for social media and messaging. There are a few power outlets near tables (intended for laptop work during the day), but these are shared and not guaranteed. Staff will usually let you charge a phone if needed (just ask). Many regulars note that the coffeehouse vibe makes it easy to do some work or social media set-up before or after shows.
What kinds of food are served, and what's the price range?
Yours’s kitchen focuses on simple, home-style fare – think toasties (e.g. pizza toastie, cheese toastie), crowd-sourced veggie soups, salads and baked sweets, with good coffee and tea. All food is priced affordably ($5–$15 range on average). Importantly, they often allow pay-what-you-can or sliding scale, so if money is tight you just give what you can. They stock vegan and gluten-free options too (e.g. nut milk, gluten-free bread). Many visitors rave about their in-house baked goods and “juice of the night” – it’s less formal dining, more like comfort cafe food.
Is smoking allowed inside or outside the venue?
No smoking is allowed inside the building (Dunedin City policy). There’s no formal outdoor smoking enclosure either. Guests who smoke typically step a few metres outside the front door on the sidewalk or around the corner. Since Moray Place is not a pedestrian mall, they must stand by the street. If it’s cold or rainy, staff may hand out umbrellas for cover. Be courteous: smoke away from the entrance so non-smokers aren’t bothered.
What are common mistakes to avoid when visiting Yours?
A few tips: first, don’t arrive last-minute for a big show – the place fills quickly and they usually won’t turn people away until capacity. Always check if an event is R18 or all-ages. Also, no need to tip heavily (the co-op is nonprofits-focused), but do consider buying something (even a coffee or koha) to support them. Lastly, be aware the restrooms aren’t at ground level – if you or anyone with you has mobility needs, it’s better to go before you enter. Outside of that, just come as you are; the community is very welcoming.
