About Sugar Night Club
Sugar Night Club is Gisborne’s main late-night dance venue, an indoor nightclub located at 90 Peel Street in the city centre (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.gizzylocal.com ). It’s known for its pulsating, high-energy atmosphere – the club features a large central dance floor, high-quality sound and lighting systems, and immersive visual effects (www.ticketfairy.com ). The interior has a modern, stylish decor with a full bar selling cocktails and local beer (www.ticketfairy.com ). In a town of this size, Sugar has become the primary destination for nightlife. One guide even calls it the “heartbeat of Gisborne’s nightlife” with “pulsating atmosphere” and standout lighting (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). When packed, it holds a few hundred party-goers (general admission, standing-room only) (www.ticketfairy.com ), making it by far the largest late-night dance venue in the region. Strict 18+ policy (no minors) and ID checks are enforced at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Sugar Night Club hosts a wide variety of weekly events and one-off performances. Most weekends feature late-night DJ dance parties spanning EDM, hip-hop, R&B and pop classics (www.ticketfairy.com ). The club regularly runs themed nights – for example, a country music “Round Up” party in February 2025 saw DJs spinning Luke Combs, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain and other country hits (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.gizzylocal.com ), and an “Early Bird” afternoon club for 30+ crowds in August 2025 played nostalgiciac hits from the 1970s through the 2000s (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.moshtix.co.nz ). Sugar also brings in live acts occasionally. Notably, hip-hop star Layzie Bone (from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony) headlined the venue in January 2025 (www.ticketfairy.com ), and local rap DJs/trios (such as Witters and MC Crafty) have had featured shows there as well (www.ticketfairy.com ). The club is even the official nightclub partner for some community events – for example, it hosted the “Weigh In” after-party for Gisborne’s Longline fishing festival (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Generally, events tend to start around 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.gizzylocal.com ) (doors often open at 10pm (www.gizzylocal.com )), though special promotions or festival after-parties can run any night. In short, Sugar’s calendar is full of DJs, dance parties, themed pop-up club nights and occasional live concerts, so the lineup is always changing.
Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box office at Sugar – tickets must usually be purchased online through promoters or ticketing outlets. Cover charges vary by event, but most nights cost on the order of NZ$20–40 per person. For instance, a recent hip-hop party offered early-bird tickets at about NZ$30 (plus fees) and NZ$40 at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, strong club nights often sell out, so the best strategy is to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale (www.ticketfairy.com ). Check Gisborne event listings (e.g. on Ticket platforms or promoters’ social media) for announcements. If tickets remain, you can sometimes buy at the door before the show, but this is not guaranteed and you risk missing out, so early purchase is recommended (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short: plan ahead, expect to pay roughly NZ$20–40, and grab tickets early for popular Friday/Saturday nights (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
Sugar Night Club is designed for dancing. It centers on a very large open dance floor with no fixed seating (www.ticketfairy.com ). General admission is standing-room only (no reserved seats) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The DJ booth and stage are at one end of the floor, with sound and light rigs overhead, so you can choose to stand close for the full club experience or linger at the edges or bar area if you want a break. The hall is relatively narrow, so even at the back people feel part of the action. A spacious bar area lines one wall, and there are a few scattered high tables and ledges around the room. Some people catch a view from near the walls or at the bar, while the most die-hard dancers are on the floor. Acoustics are deliberately loud and bass-heavy – as one review notes, Sugar uses “high-quality sound and lighting rigs” to create an immersive vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). One unique feature: there are about 18 electronic gaming machines (pokies) on site (www.ticketfairy.com ), so in between songs you might spot patrons shooting pool or playing slots at the back. But otherwise, it’s a classic club layout: dance area in front, bar at the sides, and minimal seating. (There is no seated VIP section or balconies.)
Getting There and Parking
Address: Sugar Night Club is at 90 Peel Street, Gisborne 4010 (just north of Gladstone Road in the CBD) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.gizzylocal.com ). It’s a short walk from the Gladstone Road shops and central bus stops.Driving & Parking: Much of central Gisborne has free all-day parking. In particular, there are about 1,000 free on-street carparks within a short walk of Gladstone Road (www.gdc.govt.nz ). Peel Street itself (in front of the club) is metered at about NZ$2.50/hr with a 2-hour limit (www.gdc.govt.nz ). However, note that Peel Street becomes a no-parking clearway after 11pm (until 5am) (www.gdc.govt.nz ), so you cannot leave a car there overnight. Other nearby streets (e.g. Derby, Grey Street) have paid meters or long-term parking permits. In practice, visitors often park on side streets or use the Civic Centre carpark and walk over. Always obey posted time limits to avoid fines.Public Transit: The “GizzyBus” city buses run on weekdays (approx. 7am–5pm) with a terminal at Bright Street/Gladstone Road in the CBD (www.gdc.govt.nz ). You can get the bus into town and then walk a block or two to Peel Street. Note: there is no evening or weekend bus service. For night-time transport, taxis and ride-share services (Uber is available 24/7 in Gisborne (www.uber.com )) are the usual options. The Uber app lets you request a ride at any hour in Gisborne (www.uber.com ), and local taxis can be flagged down or booked in advance. Plan to arrange a ride after 2am, as buses stop running and Peel Street is a late-night clearway.Walking/Rideshare: If you’re staying in Gisborne’s central hotels or hostels, Sugar is an easy walk (5–10 minutes). Rideshare drop-offs or taxi stands are typically on Gladstone Road or nearby. For example, the bus terminal (which doubles as a taxi hub) on Bright/Gladstone is only ~300m away.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Atmosphere: Expect a typical nightclub entry. Security staff check IDs rigorously (18+ only) (www.ticketfairy.com ), so bring a valid driver’s licence or passport. The crowd is young and energetic. The lighting rig frequently uses strobes, lasers and moving lights; note that one event warned “changing and moving stage lighting” (www.moshtix.co.nz ). On busy nights, the room will be packed (especially near the bar and dance floor). Sound levels are very loud, with heavy bass – earplugs can be a good idea for the noise-sensitive.Drink & Food: There is a full bar serving beer, wine, spirits and cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bar prices in NZ clubs can be moderate; expect to pay about normal bar prices for drinks. (There is no kitchen or food menu – the focus is on the bar. If you want a meal, eat beforehand.) During events the bartenders work quickly, but lines can form. It’s cash or card (EFTPOS) at the bar. Outside beverages and food are not allowed in.Amenities: Restrooms (separate men’s/women’s) are located backstage or in an adjacent hall – staff will direct you. There is no formal coat check; coats and large bags can be carried in but there is limited storage space (some people leave jackets around the bar area or with friends). The venue offers basic services – for example, a wall of charging cables is often available (so bring your own cable), and there may be a merchandise table if a particular act is touring. Wi-Fi is not typically provided. Cell phone reception is usually fair inside, but heavy activity or crowding could slow it down. Overall, it’s a straightforward club experience: loud music, flashing lights, dance floor and a bar. Paints an all-inclusive dance party vibe with no additional frills.
Nearby Amenities
Sugar Night Club sits in the heart of downtown Gisborne, so there are plenty of amenities within walking distance to plan around your visit. For pre-show dining, Peel Street itself has a casual café (Peel St Cafe) serving coffee and snacks, and Gladstone Road (a block south) is lined with restaurants and takeaways (Indian, Chinese, burgers, pizza, local pubs, etc.) (evendo.com ). A popular spot for dinner before a night out is “Little India” on Gladstone, and there are fish & chip shops and cafés nearby as well. If you want a late-night bite or after-party drink after Sugar closes, downtown bars like the nearby Brave Brewing taproom or the Brambles Bar (on Gladstone/Peel corner) are options.
As for lodging, several hotels and motels are within a short drive or 10-minute walk. Examples include the Copthorne Hotel on Gladstone, the Travelodge/Harbourview, and small B&Bs near the waterfront. When planning arrival time, note that lines can form for popular shows. It’s wise to get in line by around 9:30pm if you want to beat wait times for a 10pm door. After closing, the city centre is quiet but safe – if you need to get back to a hotel, taxis or Uber are readily available. Late-night food options (like 24hr petrol stations or convenience stores) are limited, so eat before you party.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sugar Night Club may not be architecturally historic, but it holds a special place in Gisborne’s culture. It is essentially the only dedicated nightclub on the East Cape, making it a crucial gathering place for locals and visitors. The club has become part of city lore – one description even calls it “Gizzy’s finest establishment” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Over the years it’s hosted homegrown artists and national touring acts alike; for instance, getting a legendary rapper like Layzie Bone to play a club show is a big deal for the region (www.ticketfairy.com ). Theming nights (country, retro, etc.) and community partnerships (fishing festival after-parties) have turned it into more than “just a bar” – it’s woven into local events and celebrations. Longtime patrons say Sugar is where they first heard their favourite DJs, and it’s where celebrations and nights out happen. In short, its uniqueness lies in being the city’s late-night anchor: energetic crowds, themed parties, and a consistently lively vibe make it a one-of-a-kind spot in Gisborne (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Planning a night at Sugar Night Club? Here are some quick tips:
Age & ID: Sugar is strictly 18+; you must show valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). No exceptions for younger guests or infants – it’s an adult venue.Dress Code: The club has a smart-casual vibe. “Dress to impress” is often suggested (evendo.com ) – trendy or neat attire is recommended. Very casual sportswear or overly baggy clothing might not be turned away, but dressing up fits the atmosphere. Footwear should be comfortable enough for dancing.Arrive Early: For big shows or Fri/Sat nights, lines can form. Getting there by 9:30pm helps you beat the rush and secure a good spot inside (www.ticketfairy.com ) (evendo.com ). Once inside, the club will fill up fast.Bring Essentials: Carry your ID and some cash or card for the bar. While the bar accepts plastic cards, cash can speed things up. Leave any prohibited items (drugs, weapons, outside food) at home. A small personal bag is fine, but expect frisking at the door if big. If you like photos, know that flash photography during shows is frowned upon (respect performers and other guests).Stay Hydrated and Safe: Angel or water bottles are usually allowed (helpful on the dance floor). It’s easy to lose track of time with the loud music and lighting effects – remember to take breaks if needed. Keep an eye out for friends (phones can die in a crowded club). Planning a safe ride home in advance is wise, especially if it's late (Uber or taxi, as buses don’t run after hours). Special Needs: The club is on ground level but not explicitly marked for accessibility. If you have mobility issues or specific needs, consider contacting them ahead of time. Generally, dress for club conditions (loud music, flashing lights – the Round Up event noted possible seizures from strobe lights (www.moshtix.co.nz ), so those sensitive should take care).Payment: Drinks are in New Zealand dollars. If you need a Bee Card for the bus earlier in the evening, pick one up free at the council office or library (www.gdc.govt.nz ). Cell reception is OK, but assume limited Wi-Fi.Etiquette: Respect others on the dance floor, form an orderly queue at the bar, and keep personal belongings secure. Follow staff instructions for safety. The atmosphere is generally friendly and fun – mingle and enjoy the local DJ sets for a true Gisborne experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Sugar Night Club located?
Sugar Night Club is at 90 Peel Street, Gisborne 4010 , right in the city centre (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.gizzylocal.com ). It’s one block north of the main Gladstone Road shops, in walking distance from downtown hotels and the city bus terminal.
What is the capacity of Sugar Night Club?
While the exact capacity isn’t published, Sugar Night Club holds on the order of a few hundred people when packed (www.ticketfairy.com ). It is primarily a large open warehouse-style club (standing room), so when fully sold out it accommodates a few hundred dancing patrons.
Is Sugar Night Club an adults-only venue?
Yes. Sugar Night Club enforces an 18+ age limit for all events (www.ticketfairy.com ). You must have a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) to enter. Children or teens are not allowed, since the club serves alcohol and plays loud music.
Where can I buy tickets and how much do they typically cost?
Tickets for Sugar Night Club shows are usually sold online through event promoters. There is no walk-up box office at the club (www.ticketfairy.com ). Prices range roughly NZ$20–40 depending on the act. For example, a recent hip-hop night charged about NZ$30 for early-bird tickets and NZ$40 at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Popular events can sell out – it’s best to purchase tickets in advance via concert websites or social event pages. If you miss out online, you may occasionally snag a door ticket if the show isn’t sold out, but that’s not guaranteed (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there seating or is it all standing?
Sugar Night Club is a dance club with no fixed seating. The entire venue is essentially a large open dance floor (general admission standing) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Patrons gather around the DJ or near the bar, but there are no reserved seats or tables. If you want to sit or rest, you might use the bar area or stand at the edges; but on a busy night, everyone is up dancing and moving.
What music and events does Sugar Night Club host?
Sugar offers a mix of club and live music nights. Typically, DJs spin dance, hip-hop, R&B and pop “club” tracks on Fridays and Saturdays (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are also themed events – for example, a country music “Round Up” night (Feb 2025) and a retro “Early Bird” 30+ party (www.ticketfairy.com ), among others. Occasionally the club brings in touring artists: in Jan 2025 hip-hop artist Layzie Bone performed there (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local musicians and DJs also headline community shows (such as the Longline fishing festival after-party (www.ticketfairy.com )). Check local event listings to see the current schedule, but expect a lively variety of dance-oriented nights.
When is Sugar Night Club open?
Sugar’s club nights are usually on weekend evenings. The venue generally opens around 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays and stays open into the early hours (often until 2am) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.gizzylocal.com ). On weekday evenings it may be closed or only open for occasional special events – check the event page. Note that listings (e.g. on Gizzylocal) show it closes early Sunday morning, and it is closed on Sunday day-time (www.gizzylocal.com ).
What should I wear to Sugar Night Club?
There is no strict uniform or enforced dress code, but the vibe is upscale-casual. Patrons generally dress to impress (evendo.com ) – think smart-casual night-out attire. Neat jeans or trousers with a nice top or shirt and clean shoes are typical. Very casual sportswear or flip-flops might not suit the club scene. If in doubt, slightly dressier is better than too casual.
Is there a cover charge or entry fee?
Almost all nights at Sugar have an entry fee. The cover charge depends on the event and is on top of any drink purchases. Typical fees are in the NZ$20–40 range (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, one party listed early tickets at NZ$30 plus fees and NZ$40 on the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Holiday or special events may cost more. If you see a ticket price advertised, budget accordingly. Also factor in drink costs once inside.
Are there parking facilities near Sugar Night Club?
Yes. Peel Street itself has metered parking ($2.50/hr up to 2 hours) (www.gdc.govt.nz ), but note that after 11pm Peel Street becomes a clearway (no parking) (www.gdc.govt.nz ). Fortunately, downtown Gisborne has lots of free parking nearby. Within a short walk are hundreds of free all-day car parks around Gladstone Road (www.gdc.govt.nz ). Side streets like Derby and Grey also have 2-hour or 8-hour paid zones (www.gdc.govt.nz ) (www.gdc.govt.nz ). After parking, it’s typically a 5–10 minute walk to the club. Always check signs and meters to avoid fines, especially the late-night clearway on Peel.
What public transport or rideshare options are available?
Gisborne’s “GizzyBus” city buses can get you to the city center during weekdays (7am–5pm) (www.gdc.govt.nz ), but there is no evening or weekend bus service. The Bright/Gladstone St bus terminal is about a 4-minute walk from Sugar. For club hours, the main options are taxis and ride-sharing. Uber operates in Gisborne (allowing 24/7 ride requests) (www.uber.com ). You can hail a taxi from the CBD as well. If you plan to drink, it’s wise to arrange a cab or Uber ride home, since parking clearance and bus absence make driving tricky late at night. (www.uber.com )
Is Sugar Night Club wheelchair accessible?
Sugar is on ground level at Peel Street, but the venue layout (crowded dance floor and bar) may not have dedicated wheelchair facilities. There’s no information publicly listed about full ADA-like compliance. The best approach is to contact the venue directly before attending to discuss accessibility needs. Note the city buses (GizzyBus) are wheelchair-friendly (www.gdc.govt.nz ), so you can reach downtown via accessible transit and then enter the club if possible.
Does Sugar Night Club have an outdoor area or smoking zone?
Sugar is fundamentally an indoor nightclub. There is no large outdoor patio like some clubs. Smoking is not allowed inside (NZ law prohibits indoor smoking in bars); patrons who wish to smoke step outside. Typically, people step onto Peel Street or close by to smoke. Record-keeping often places a smoking area near the entrance. So, plan that if you want a smoke break, it will be outdoors on the sidewalk.
Are outside food or drink items allowed?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Sugar Night Club. The venue has its own bar for drinks and no on-site food service. You should eat beforehand. You may bring an empty water bottle though; many clubs allow patrons to fill up at the bar’s tap. Always follow the venue’s posted rules – typically only small purses or clutches are allowed at the door.
What time should I arrive for a show?
For popular Friday/Saturday events, it’s best to arrive around 9:30–10:00pm or right when doors open. Busy nights can have a waiting line, so showing up shortly before the advertised 10pm start will help you get in early (evendo.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Once inside, the club will fill up quickly. If you come after 11pm, you may still get in but could face a short queue. Weekday shows (if any) may be less crowded, but arriving by start time is still wise.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed?
Casual phone photos without flashes are generally okay for most nights. However, professional cameras or video recording equipment are typically not allowed unless part of an approved event crew. If unsure, check with the club’s staff or event promoters ahead of time. Remember that flashing lights and large crowds can make photography difficult. Always be respectful – flash photography is usually discouraged on the dance floor.
Is Wi-Fi available at Sugar Night Club?
Sugar Night Club does not typically offer public Wi-Fi to guests. You should expect to rely on your smartphone data or public networks elsewhere. Almost all interaction at the club (ticketing, music, communication) is done without Wi-Fi. It’s a good idea to purchase any needed tickets or check maps before entering, as phone reception inside may be affected by the building and crowd.
